Boeing Delivers First Upgraded Block III Super Hornets to US Navy
The US Navy’s fighter jet capabilities have received a significant boost with Boeing’s delivery of the first two upgraded F/A-18 Block III Super Hornets. This milestone marks a crucial step in the Navy’s ongoing efforts to modernize its fleet and maintain air superiority in increasingly complex combat environments.
The Block III Super Hornet upgrade program, part of the service life modification (SLM) initiative, brings cutting-edge technology to existing airframes. Key enhancements include a state-of-the-art large area display, advanced computing power through Tactical Targeting Network Technology, and a Distributed Targeting Processor-Networked open mission systems processor. These upgrades significantly improve the aircraft’s situational awareness, data processing capabilities, and overall combat effectiveness.
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Capt. Michael Burks, program manager for the F/A-18 and EA-18G Program Office, emphasized the importance of this achievement, stating, “These first deliveries of Block III SLM jets are a major milestone in our continued efforts to ensure capability, reliability, availability, and maintainability of the Super Hornet aircraft.”
The Block III Super Hornet upgrade work is currently being carried out at Boeing facilities in St. Louis and San Antonio. In a move to expedite the process, Boeing has partnered with Fleet Readiness Center Southwest in San Diego, establishing a third upgrade line. This expansion demonstrates the program’s significance and the urgency to equip the Navy with these enhanced fighters.
Internationally, the impact of the Block III Super Hornet upgrade extends beyond US borders. While Australia hasn’t formally committed to upgrading its F/A-18F Block II Super Hornets to the full Block III configuration, it maintains a parallel enhancement path. Through a two-year cycle of hardware and software improvements, Australian Super Hornets remain interoperable with their US counterparts.
Boeing Defence Australia’s recent $600 million contract extension underscores the long-term commitment to maintaining and upgrading Australia’s F/A-18F Super Hornets and E/A-18G Growlers. This aligns with Australia’s 2024 Integrated Investment Plan, which aims to extend these aircraft’s operational life to 2040.
As geopolitical tensions persist and air combat technologies advance, the Block III Super Hornet upgrade program ensures that the US Navy and its allies maintain a cutting-edge fighter fleet. These enhanced aircraft will play a crucial role in safeguarding national interests and contributing to global security efforts in the coming decades.
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