Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet

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F/A-18E/F Super Hornet
FA-18 Hornet VFA-41.jpg
A U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet conducts a mission over the Persian Gulf
RoleCarrier-based multirole fighter
National originUnited States
ManufacturerMcDonnell Douglas
Boeing Defense, Space & Security
First flight29 November 1995
Introduction1999
StatusIn service
Primary usersUnited States Navy
Royal Australian Air Force
Produced1995–present
Number built500 as of April 2011[1]
Program costTotal procurement: US$48.09 billion (through FY2011)[2]
Unit costUS$66.9 million (2012 flyaway cost)[3][N 1]
Developed fromMcDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet
VariantsBoeing EA-18G Growler
The Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is a twin-engine carrier-based multirole fighter aircraft variant based on the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet. The F/A-18E single-seat and F/A-18F tandem-seat variants are larger and more advanced derivatives of the F/A-18C and D Hornet. The Super Hornet has an internal 20 mm M61 rotary cannon and can carry air-to-air missiles and air-to-surface weapons. Additional fuel can be carried in up to five external fuel tanks and the aircraft can be configured as an airborne tanker by adding an external air refueling system.
Designed and initially produced by McDonnell Douglas, the Super Hornet first flew in 1995. Full-rate production began in September 1997, after the merger of McDonnell Douglas and Boeing the previous month. The Super Hornet entered service with the United States Navy in 1999, replacing the Grumman F-14 Tomcat, which was retired in 2006, and serves alongside the original Hornet. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), which has operated the F/A-18A as its main fighter since 1984, ordered the F/A-18F in 2007 to replace its aging F-111 fleet. RAAF Super Hornets entered service in December 2010.

Development[edit]

Origins[edit]

The Super Hornet is a further evolutionary redesign of the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, but the origins of the unique wing and tail configuration of the Super Hornet can be traced back to an internal Northrop project P-530, c. 1965. The design started as a substantial rework of the lightweight F-5E with a larger wing, twin tail fins and a distinctive leading edge root extension (LERX) which led to the "Cobra" nickname.[5] It eventually flew as the Northrop YF-17 "Cobra" competing in the United States Air Force's Lightweight Fighter (LWF) program. The LWF aimed to produce a smaller and simpler fighter to complement the larger F-15 Eagle. The Navy directed that the YF-17 be redesigned into the larger F/A-18 Hornet which met a requirement for a smaller multi-role fighter to complement the larger F-14 Tomcat which served in air superiority and fleet defense interceptor roles. The Hornet proved to be effective and popular, but limited in combat radius. The ultimate evolution would grow the design into the Super Hornet with an empty weight slightly greater than the F-15C.[6]
The concept of an enlarged Hornet was first proposed in 1980s, when an early version was marketed by McDonnell Douglas as Hornet 2000. The Hornet 2000 concept was an advanced version of the F/A-18 with a larger wing and a longer fuselage to carry more fuel and more powerful engines.[7] The Hornet 2000 study was officially announced by McDonnell Douglas in January 1988.[8] At the same time, U.S. Naval Aviation faced a number of problems. The McDonnell Douglas A-12 Avenger II program, intended to replace the obsolete Grumman A-6 Intruder and LTV A-7 Corsair II, had run into serious problems and was canceled. The end of the Cold Warsubsequently led to a period of military budget cuts and considerable restructuring.[9]
With no clean-sheet program in the works, the Navy considered updating an existing design as a more attractive approach. As an alternative to the A-12, McDonnell Douglas proposed the "Super Hornet" (initially "Hornet II" in the 1980s), an improvement of the successful early F/A-18 models,[8] which could serve as an alternate replacement for the A-6 Intruder. At the same time, the Navy needed a fleet defense fighter to replace the canceled Navy Advanced Tactical Fighter (NATF), which was to have developed a navalized variant of the Air Force's Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor.[7]

Testing and production[edit]

Four F/A-18Fs of VFA-41"Black Aces" flying a trail formation in 2003. Note AN/ASQ-228 ATFLIR pods on the first and third aircraft, and a buddy storetank on the fourth aircraft
The Super Hornet was first ordered by the U.S. Navy in 1992. The Navy would also direct that this fighter replace the aging F-14 Tomcat, essentially basing all naval combat jets on Hornet variants until the introduction of the F-35C Lightning II.[10] The Navy retained the F/A-18 designation to help sell the program to Congress as a low-risk "derivative", though the Super Hornet is largely a new aircraft. The Hornet and Super Hornet share many design and flight characteristics, including avionics, ejection seats, radar, armament, mission computer software, and maintenance/operating procedures. In particular the initial F/A-18E/F retained most of the avionics systems from the F/A-18C/D's configuration at the time.[7]
The Super Hornet first flew on 29 November 1995.[7] Initial production on the F/A-18E/F began in 1995. Flight testing started in 1996 with the F/A-18E/F's first carrier landing in 1997.[7] Low-rate production began in March 1997[11] with full production beginning in September 1997.[12] Testing continued through 1999, finishing with sea trials and aerial refueling demonstrations. Testing involved 3,100 test flights covering 4,600 flight hours.[8] The Super Hornet underwent U.S. Navy operational tests and evaluations in 1999,[13] and was approved in February 2000.[14]
The Navy considers acquisition of the Super Hornet a success with it meeting cost, schedule, and weight (400 lb, 181 kg below) requirements.[15] Despite having the same general layout and systems, the Super Hornet differs in many ways from the original F/A-18 Hornet. The Super Hornet is informally referred to as the "Rhino" to distinguish it from earlier model "legacy" Hornets and to prevent confusion in radio calls. This aids safe flight operations, since the catapult and arrestingsystems must be set differently for the heavier Super Hornet. (The "Rhino" nickname was earlier used by the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, which was retired from the fleet in 1987.)
The U.S. Navy currently flies both the F/A-18E single-seater and F/A-18F two-seater in combat roles, taking the place of the retired F-14, A-6 Intruder, Lockheed S-3 Viking, and KA-6D. An electronic warfare variant, the EA-18G Growler, will replace the aging EA-6B Prowler. The Navy calls this reduction in aircraft types a "neck-down". In the Vietnam War era, the Super Hornet's capabilities were covered by no less than the A-1/A-4/A-7 (light attack), A-6 (medium attack), F-8/F-4 (fighter), RA-5C (recon), KA-3/KA-6 (tanker) and EA-6 (electronic warfare). It is anticipated that $1 billion in fleet wide annual savings will result from replacing other types with the Super Hornet.[16]
In 2003, the Navy identified a flaw present in the under wing pylons across the Super Hornet fleet which required remedial repairs, or would otherwise decrease the aircraft's service life. As of 2007, changes to rectify the problem on newly manufactured airframes had been, existing aircraft would also receive modifications from 2009 onwards.[17]

Improvements and changes[edit]

After initial fleet integration began, Boeing upgraded to the Block II version of the aircraft, incorporating an improved Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, adopting larger displays, integrating the joint helmet mounted cuing system, and replacing many other avionics.[18][19] The Block II configuration has the avionics and weapons systems that were being developed for the proposed production JSF version of the Boeing X-32.[20] As part of the Block II configuration, new-build aircraft received the APG-79AESA radar beginning in 2005; earlier production aircraft will have their APG-73 replaced with the APG-79.[18] In January 2008, it was announced that 135 aircraft were to be retrofitted with AESA radars.[21]
In early 2008, Boeing discussed the development of a Super Hornet Block III with the U.S. and Australian military, featuring additional stealth capabilities and extended range; a long-term successor is to be developed under the Next Generation Air Dominanceprogram.[22] In 2010, Boeing offered international customers the Super Hornet "International Roadmap", which included conformal fuel tanks, enhanced engines, an enclosed weapons pod (EWP), a next-generation cockpit, a new missile warning system, and an internalinfra-red search and track (IRST) system.[23][24][25] The enclosed weapons pods (EWP) are to have four internal stations for munitions; a total of three EWPs could be carried by a single aircraft, housing up to 12 AMRAAMs and 2 Sidewinders.[26][27] The next-generation cockpit shall feature a large 19 in x 11 inch touch-sensitive display.[28]
In 2007, Boeing stated that a passive Infrared Search and Track (IRST) sensor would be a future option for the Super Hornet. The sensor, mounted in a modified centerline fuel tank, would detect long wave IR emissions for detecting and tracking targets such as other aircraft.[29] The IRST coupled with the AIM-9X Block III Sidewinder missile will allow enemy aircraft to be engaged without disruption from radar jamming.[30] On 18 May 2009, Lockheed Martin announced its selection by Boeing to conduct the IR sensor's technology development phase.[31] Lockheed Martin was awarded a contract for the IRST in November 2011.[32] As of September 2013, a basic IRST would be fielded in 2016 and a longer-range version in 2019; the 2013 sequestration cuts could delay those dates by two years.[30]
In 2009, development had commenced on several engine improvements, including greater resistance to foreign object damage, reduced fuel burn rate, and potentially increased thrust of up to 20%.[33][34] In late 2011, Boeing received a contract from the US Navy to develop a new mission computer for the Super Hornet.[35]
Northrop Grumman and Boeing have been self-funding a prototype of the Advanced Super Hornet.[36] The prototype features a 50% reduction in frontal radar cross-section (RCS), conformal fuel tanks (CFT), and an enclosed weapons pod.[37][38] Features of the Advanced Super Hornet can also be integrated onto the EA-18G Growler; the adoption of CFTs on the EA-18 fleet has been speculated as useful to releasing underwing space and drag margin for the Next Generation Jammer.[39][40] Flight tests of the Advanced Super Hornet began on 5 August 2013 and continued for three weeks, testing the performance of CFTs, the enclosed weapons pod (EWP), and signature enhancements.[41]
In March 2013, the U.S. Navy was considering the widespread adoption of conformal fuel tanks, which would allow the Super Hornet to carry 3,500 lb (1,600 kg) of additional fuel. Budgetary pressures from the F-35C Lightning II and Pacific region operations were cited as reasons supporting the use of CFTs. Flight testing has demonstrated that the CFTs can slightly reduce drag, and the extra fuel expands the Super Hornet's combat radius by 260 nautical miles.[42] While the prototype CFT weighs 1,500 lb, the production tank is expected to weigh only 870 lb. Boeing has stated that the CFTs do not add any cruise drag but acknowledge a negative impact imposed on transonic acceleration due to increased waved drag. General Electric's enhanced performance engine (EPE), increasing the power output of the F414-GE-400 from 22,000 lb to 26,400 lb of thrust per engine, has been suggested as a mitigating measure.[43]

Design[edit]

Overview[edit]

Two aircraft flying high above clouds, transferring fuel through a pipe to which the lower aircraft is connected.
An F/A-18F refueling an F/A-18E over the Bay of Bengal, 2007
The Super Hornet is largely a new aircraft. It is about 20% larger, 7,000 lb (3,200 kg) heavier empty weight, and 15,000 lb (6,800 kg) heavier maximum weight than the original Hornet. The Super Hornet carries 33% more internal fuel, increasing mission range by 41% and endurance by 50% over the "Legacy" Hornet. The empty weight of the Super Hornet is about 11,000 lb (5,000 kg) less than that of the F-14 Tomcat which it replaced, while approaching, but not matching, the F-14's payload and range.[44][N 2]
The Super Hornet, unlike the previous Hornet, is designed so it can be equipped with an aerial refueling system (ARS) or "buddy store" for the refueling of other aircraft,[45] filling the tactical airborne tanker role the Navy had lost with the retirement of the KA-6D andLockheed S-3B Viking tankers. The ARS includes an external 330 US gal (1,200 L) tank with hose reel on the centerline, along with four external 480 US gal (1,800 L) tanks and internal tanks, for a total of 29,000 lb (13,000 kg) of fuel on the aircraft.[45][46]

Airframe changes[edit]

Comparisons between rectangular and oval jet engine intakes.
Rectangular Super Hornet vs oval Hornet air intakes
The forward fuselage is unchanged, but the remainder of the aircraft shares little with earlier F/A-18C/D models. The fuselage was stretched by 34 in (86 cm) to make room for fuel and future avionics upgrades and increased the wing area by 25%.[47] However, the Super Hornet has 42% fewer structural parts than the original Hornet design.[48] The General Electric F414 engine, developed from the Hornet's F404, has 35% additional thrust over most of the aircraft's flight envelope.[47][49] The Super Hornet can return to an aircraft carrier with a larger load of unspent fuel and munitions than the original Hornet. The term for this ability is known as "bringback". Bringback for the Super Hornet is in excess of 9,000 lb (4,100 kg).[50]
Other differences include approximately rectangular intakes for the engines and two extra wing hard points for payload (for a total of 11), retaining previous hardpoints on the bottom centerline, wingtips, and two conformal fuselage positions.[51] Among the most significant aerodynamic changes are the enlarged leading edge extensions (LEX) which provide improved vortex lifting characteristics in highangle of attack maneuvers, and reduce the static stability margin to enhance pitching characteristics. This results in pitch rates in excess of 40 degrees per second, and high resistance to departure from controlled flight.[52]

Radar signature reduction measures[edit]

Survivability is an important feature of the Super Hornet design. The U.S. Navy took a "balanced approach" to survivability in its design.[53] This means that it does not rely on low-observable technology, such as stealth systems, to the exclusion of other survivability factors. Instead, its design incorporates a combination of stealth, advanced electronic-warfare capabilities, reduced ballistic vulnerability, the use of standoff weapons, and innovative tactics that cumulatively and collectively enhance the safety of the fighter and crew.[54]
Two jet aircraft flying over clouds during dawn/dusk. The one in the foreground is perpendicular to the camera; the second further away is banking left while releasing orange flares
Two U.S. Navy F/A-18E Super Hornets fly a combat patrol over Afghanistan in 2008. The aircraft banking away in the background can be seen launching infra-redcountermeasure flares.
The F/A-18E/F's radar cross-section was reduced greatly from some aspects, mainly the front and rear.[7] The design of the engine inlets reduces the aircraft's frontal radar cross-section. The alignment of the leading edges of the engine inlets is designed to scatter radiation to the sides. Fixed fanlike reflecting structures in the inlet tunnel divert radar energy away from the rotating fan blades.[55]
The Super Hornet also makes considerable use of panel joint serration and edge alignment. Considerable attention has been paid to the removal or filling of unnecessary surface join gaps and resonant cavities. Where the F/A-18A-D used grilles to cover various accessory exhaust and inlet ducts, the F/A-18E/F uses perforated panels that appear opaque to radar waves at the frequencies used. Careful attention has been paid to the alignment of many panel boundaries and edges, to direct reflected waves away from the aircraft in uniformly narrow angles.[7]
It is claimed that the Super Hornet employs the most extensive radar cross section reduction measures of any contemporary fighter, other than the F-22 and F-35. While the F/A-18E/F is not a true stealth fighter like the F-22, it will have a frontal radar cross-section an order of magnitude smaller than prior generation fighters.[55] Additional RCS reduction measures can be installed on an as needed basis.[56]

Avionics[edit]

Initially, the Super Hornet's avionics and software had a 90% commonality with that of the F/A-18C/D fleet at the time.[49] Differences include a touch-sensitive, up-front control display; a large liquid-crystal multipurpose color display; and a fuel display.[49] The Super Hornet has a quadruplex digital fly-by-wire system,[57] as well as a digital flight-control system that detects and corrects for battle damage.[52] Initial production models used the APG-73 radar, later replaced by the APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA).[18][19] The AN/ASQ-228 ATFLIR (Advanced Targeting Forward Looking InfraRed), is the main electro-optical sensor and laser designator pod for the Super Hornet. The communications equipment consist of an AN/ARC-210 VHF/UHF radio[58] and a MIDS low volume terminal for HAVE QUICK, SINCGARS and Link 16 connectivity.
Jet aircraft with landing gear extended flying in a nose-high attitude.
F/A-18F at Royal International Air Tattoo2004
The defensive countermeasures of Block I aircraft includes the AN/ALR-67(V)3 radar warning receiver, the AN/ALE-47 countermeasures dispenser, the AN/ALE-50 towed decoy and the AN/ALQ-165 Airborne Self-Protect Jammer (ASPJ). Newer Block II aircraft replace the ALQ-165 with the AN/ALQ-214 Integrated Defensive Countermeasures (IDECM) system which consists of internally mounted threat receivers and optional self-protection jammers. The interior and exterior lighting on the Block II has also been changed to allow the air crew to use night vision goggles (NVG). The older ALE-50 decoys are being replaced by ALE-55 towed decoys, which can transmit jamming signals based on data received from the IDECM.[59] The improved AN/ALQ-214 jammer was added on Super Hornet Block II.[19]
The Super Hornet Block II configuration includes the new APG-79 AESA radar; it enables its crew to execute simultaneous air-to-air and air-to-ground attacks. The APG-79 also provides higher quality high-resolution ground mapping at long standoff ranges.[60] The AESA radar can also detect smaller targets, such as inbound missiles[61] and can track air targets beyond the range of the Super Hornet's own air to air missiles.[62] VFA-213 became "safe for flight" (independently fly and maintain the F/A-18F) on 27 October 2006 and is the first Super Hornet squadron to fly AESA-equipped Super Hornets.[63]
The first Super Hornet upgraded with the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) was delivered to VFA-213 on 18 May 2007.[64] The JHMCS provides multi-purpose situational awareness, which includes high-off-bore-sight missile cuing. The Shared Reconnaissance Pod (SHARP) is a high-resolution, digital tactical air reconnaissance system that features advanced day/night and all-weather capability.[65] The Multifunctional Information Distribution System low volume communication terminal is being upgraded with the MIDS-JTRS system,[66] which will allow a tenfold increase in bandwidth as well as compatibility with the Joint Tactical Radio System standards.[67]

Operational history[edit]

United States Navy[edit]

F/A-18E Super Hornet launching fromAbraham Lincoln
The Super Hornet achieved initial operating capability (IOC) in September 2001 with the U.S. Navy's Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115) at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California.[15] VFA-115 was also the first unit to take their F/A-18 Super Hornets into combat. On 6 November 2002, two F/A-18Es conducted a "Response Option" strike in support of Operation Southern Watch on two surface-to-air missile launchers at Al Kut, Iraq and an air defense command and control bunker at Tallil air base. One of the pilots, Lieutenant John Turner, dropped 2,000 lb (910 kg) JDAM bombs from the Super Hornet for the first time during combat.[68]
In support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (Iraq War), VFA-14, VFA-41 and VFA-115 flew close air support, strike, escort, SEAD and aerial refueling sorties. Two F/A-18Es from VFA-14 and two F/A-18Fs from VFA-41 were forward deployed to the Abraham Lincoln. The VFA-14 aircraft flew mostly as aerial refuelers and the VFA-41 fighters as Forward Air Controller (Airborne) or FAC(A)s. On 6 April 2005, VFA-154 and VFA-147 (the latter squadron then still operating F/A-18Cs) dropped two 500-pound (230 kg) laser-guided bombs on an enemy insurgent location east of Baghdad.[69]
Video of F/A-18F Super Hornet taking off.
On 8 September 2006, VFA-211 F/A-18F Super Hornets expended GBU-12 and GBU-38bombs against Taliban fighters and Taliban fortifications west and northwest of Kandahar. This was the first time the unit was in combat with the Super Hornet.[70]
During the 2006–2007 cruise with Dwight D. Eisenhower, VFA-103 and VFA-143 supported Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and operations off the Somali coast. Alongside "Legacy Hornet" squadrons, VFA-131 and VFA-83, they dropped 140 precision guided weapons and performed nearly 70 strafing runs.[71]
In 2007, Boeing proposed additional F/A-18E/Fs to the U.S. Navy in a multi-year contract.[72] In 2008, it was reported that the Navy was considering buying additional F/A-18 Super Hornets to bridge a "strike-fighter" gap.[73][74] As of October 2008, Boeing had delivered 367 Super Hornets to the U.S. Navy.[75]
F/A-18Fs being refueled over Afghanistan in 2010
On 6 April 2009, Defense Secretary Gates announced that the Department of Defense intends to acquire further 31 F/A-18s in FY2010.[76] Congressional action has requested that the DoD study a further multi-year contract in order to avoid a projected strike fighter shortfall.[77] The FY2010 budget bill authorizes, but does not require, a multiyear purchase agreement for additional Super Hornets.[78][79]
On 14 May 2010, it was reported that Boeing and the U.S. Department of Defense reached an agreement for a multi-year contract for an additional 66 F/A-18E/Fs and 58 EA-18Gs over the next four years. The latest order for 124 aircraft will raise the total fleet count to 515 F/A-18E/Fs and 114 EA-18Gs.[80] However, the Navy is already 60 fighters below its validated requirement for fighter aircraft and this purchase will not close the gap.[81] The deal was finalized on 28 September 2010 for a multi-year contract said to save $600 million (over per year contracts) for 66 Super Hornets and 58 Growlers and to help deal with a four-year delay in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.[82]

Royal Australian Air Force[edit]

On 3 May 2007, the Australian Government signed a contract to acquire 24 F/A-18Fs for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), at a cost of A$2.9 billion, as an interim replacement for the aging F-111s.[83] The total cost with training and support over 10 years is A$6 billion (US$4.6 billion).[84]
An RAAF F/A-18F shortly after it first arrived in Australia
The order was controversial, with critics including some retired senior RAAF officers. Air Vice Marshal (ret.) Peter Criss, a former Air Commander, said he was "absolutely astounded" that the Australian government would spend $6 billion on an interim aircraft.[85]Criss has also cited evidence given by the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee that the Super Hornet Block I specific excess power is inferior to the MiG-29 and Su-30,[86] which have been operated, or ordered, by multiple air forces in South East Asia. Air Commodore(ret.) Ted Bushell stated that the F/A-18F could not perform the role that the Australian government had given it, and the F-111 would remain suitable for the strategic deterrent/strike role until at least 2020.[85] Some critics have claimed that the decision to buy the F/A-18F could ease additional Super Hornet sales to Australia, particularly if the F-35 program "encounter more problems".[87]
A review of the purchase was announced on 31 December 2007, by the new Australian Labor government, as part of a wider review of the RAAF's combat aircraft procurement plans. The main reasons given were concerns over operational suitability, the lack of a proper review process, and internal beliefs that an interim fighter was not required.[88] On 17 March 2008, the Government announced that it would proceed with plans to acquire all 24 F/A-18Fs.[89] Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon said that the Super Hornet was an "excellent aircraft".[89] However, Fitzgibbon also indicated that costs and logistical factors contributed to the decision: the F-111's retirement was "irreversible"; the F/A-18F was "the only aircraft" that could "meet the small delivery window", and "cancelling the Super Hornet would bring significant financial penalties and create understandable tensions between the contract partners."[90][91]
A RAAF Super Hornet at the 2013 Avalon Airshow
The Block II package aircraft offered to the RAAF include installed engines and six spares, APG-79 AESA radars, Link 16 connectivity, LAU-127 guided missile launchers, AN/ALE-55 fiber optic towed decoys and other equipment.[92] The government has also sought U.S. export approval for Boeing EA-18G Growlers.[93] On 27 February 2009, Fitzgibbon announced that 12 of the 24 Super Hornets would be wired on the production line for future modification as EA-18Gs. The additional wiring would cost A$35 million. The final decision on conversion to EA-18Gs, at a cost of A$300 million, would be made in 2012.[94]
The first RAAF Super Hornet was completed in 2009 and first flew from Boeing's factory inSt. Louis, Missouri on 21 July 2009.[95] RAAF pilots and air combat officers began training in the USA in 2009, with No. 1 Squadron planned to become fully operational with the F/A-18F in 2010. The RAAF's first five Super Hornets arrived at their home base, RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland, on 26 March 2010.[96] These initial aircraft were joined by six more aircraft on 7 July 2010.[97] With the arrival of another four aircraft in December 2010, the first RAAF F/A-18F squadron was declared operational on 9 December 2010.[98]
In December 2012, the Australian government sought information from the United States government about the cost of acquiring a further 24 F/A-18Fs. These aircraft may be purchased to avoid a capability gap developing due to delays to the F-35 program.[99] In February 2013, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Australia for up to 12 F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and 12 EA-18G Growler aircraft with associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support.[100] In May 2013, Australia announced they would keep the 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets they currently have instead of converting them, and will order 12 new-built EA-18G Growlers. The government remains committed to the F-35 Lightning II acquisition.[101]

Potential operators[edit]

An F/A-18F Super Hornet at Avalon Airport, 2007
The United States Marine Corps has avoided the Super Hornet program and their resistance is so high that they would rather fly former Navy F/A-18Cs that have been replaced with Super Hornets. This is said to be because they fear that any Super Hornet buys will be at the cost of the F-35B STOVL fighters that they intend to operate from amphibious ships.[102] As a concession, the Marine Corps has agreed to eventually equip five Marine fighter-attack squadrons (VMFA) with the F-35C carrier variant to continue to augment Navy carrier air wings as they currently do with the F/A-18C.[103]
Boeing offered Malaysia the Super Hornets as part of a buy-back package for its existing F/A-18 Hornets in 2002. However, the Super Hornet procurement was halted in 2007 after the government decided to purchase the Sukhoi Su-30MKM instead. But RMAF Chief Gen. Datuk Nik Ismail Nik Mohamaed indicated that the RMAF had not planned to end procurement of the Super Hornets, instead saying that the air force needed such fighters.[104]
Boeing proposed the Super Hornet to the Brazilian government. It was reported that the Super Hornet was selected as one of three finalists in Brazil's fighter competition in October 2008. Brazil has put forward an initial requirement for 36 aircraft, with a potential total purchase of 120 examples.[75][105] However news of NSA's spying activity on Brazilian leaders has caused animosity between Brazil and the US.[106] Brazil eventually dropped the Super Hornet from its final list and selected the Saab JAS 39 Gripen in December 2013.[107]
In 2008, the Royal Danish Air Force was offered the Super Hornet.[108] The Super Hornet is one of four fighter aircraft in a Danish competition to replace 48 F-16s.[109][110] The other contenders are Saab's Gripen NG, Lockheed Martin's Joint Strike Fighter and theEurofighter Typhoon. Denmark is a level-3 partner in the JSF project, and has already invested US$200 million. The final selection will be in mid-2015 where 24 to 30 fighters are expected.[111]
F/A-18F Super Hornet taxis to the runway for takeoff at Aero India 2011
For India's MMRCA competition, Boeing offered a customized variant called F/A-18IN, which included Raytheon's APG-79 AESA radar.[112] In August 2008, Boeing submitted an industrial participation proposal to India describing partnerships with companies in India.[113]The Indian Air Force (IAF) extensively evaluated the Super Hornets and conducted field trials in August 2009.[114] However, in April 2011, the IAF rejected F/A-18IN's bid in favor of the Eurofighter Typhoon and Dassault Rafale.[115]
On 10 March 2009, Boeing offered the Super Hornet for Greece's Next-Generation Fighter Program.[116]
On 1 August 2010, The Sunday Times reported that the British government was considering canceling orders for the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II and buying the Super Hornet instead for its Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers. It was stated that this would save the UK defense budget about £10 billion. An industry source suggested that the Super Hornet could be ski jump launched without catapults.[117] The UK has reverted to a STOVL aircraft carrier, thus ending the possibility of a Super Hornet purchase.[citation needed]
The United Arab Emirates has asked for information on the Super Hornet.[118]
Boeing stated that the "stealth characteristics" of the Super Hornet were ignored in Canada's sole source selection of the F-35.[119] In April 2012, Canada was reviewing its plans to procure the F-35 and may consider buying the Super Hornet instead.[120] In September 2013, Boeing provided Canada with cost and capability data for its Advanced F/A-18 Super Hornet, suggesting that a fleet of 65 aircraft would cost $1.7 billion less than a fleet of F-35s. The Advanced Super Hornet builds upon the existing Super Hornet, which is an improvement of the current CF-18 Hornet. The U.S. Navy buys Super Hornets for $52 million per aircraft, while the advanced version would add $6–$10 million per aircraft, depending on options selected.[121]
In early 2011, Bulgaria was considering the F/A-18 Super Hornet, among other aircraft, as a replacement for its MiG-21 fleet.[122]
Boeing offered the F-18 Super Hornet to the Swiss Air Force as a replacement for Swiss F-5E Tigers but Boeing withdrew from the competition.[123]

Variants[edit]

Operators[edit]

F/A-18E/F Super Hornet operators 2010
Bottom view of jet fighter in-flight releasing bright orange flares
A VFA-11 F/A-18F Super Hornet performing evasive maneuvers during an air power demonstration
A VFA-122 F/A-18F pulling a high-g maneuver at the NAS Oceana "In Pursuit of Liberty" air show, 2004
Australia Australia
United States United States
  • United States Navy
    • Pacific Fleet
      • VFA-2 "Bounty Hunters" (F/A-18F)
      • VFA-14 "Tophatters" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-22 "Fighting Redcocks" (F/A-18F)[124]
      • VFA-25 "Fist of the Fleet" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-27 "Royal Maces" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-41 "Black Aces" (F/A-18F)
      • VFA-86 "Sidewinders" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-97 "Warhawks" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-102 "Diamondbacks" (F/A-18F)
      • VFA-115 "Eagles" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-122 "Flying Eagles" (Fleet Replacement Squadron, operates F/A-18E/F)[125]
      • VFA-137 "Kestrels" (F/A-18E/F)
      • VFA-147 "Argonauts" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-151 "Vigilantes" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-154 "Black Knights" (F/A-18F)
      • VFA-195 "Dambusters" (F/A-18E)
    • Atlantic Fleet
      • VFA-11 "Red Rippers" (F/A-18F)
      • VFA-31 "Tomcatters" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-32 "Swordsmen" (F/A-18F)
      • VFA-34 "Blue Blasters" (F/A-18E) *Starting transition in Late 2012
      • VFA-81 "Sunliners" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-103 "Jolly Rogers" (F/A-18F)
      • VFA-105 "Gunslingers" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-106 "Gladiators" (Fleet Replacement Squadron, operates F/A-18A/B/C/D/E/F)
      • VFA-136 "Knighthawks" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-143 "Pukin' Dogs" (F/A-18E)
      • VFA-211 "Fighting Checkmates" (F/A-18F)
      • VFA-213 "Black Lions" (F/A-18F)
    • Test and Evaluation Units
      • VX-9 Vampires (Air Test and Evaluation Squadron, operates F/A-18E/F and other aircraft)
      • VX-23 Salty Dogs (Air Test and Evaluation Squadron, operates F/A-18E/F and other aircraft)
      • VX-31 Dust Devils (Air Test and Evaluation Squadron, operates F/A-18E/F and other aircraft)
      • NSAWC (Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center), received F/A-18F, also operates other aircraft)
    • Future F/A-18E/F squadrons[126]
Each United States Navy squadron has a standard unit establishment of 12 aircraft.

Specifications (F/A-18E/F)[edit]

Three view projection of the Super Hornet
An F/A-18F parked on the flight deck of aircraft carrier Dwight D. Eisenhower, as the ship operates in the Arabian Sea, December 2006
Three different color schemes for F/A-18E
Three different color schemes for F/A-18F
Data from U.S. Navy fact file,[15] others[127][128]
General characteristics
  • Crew: F/A-18E: 1, F/A-18F: 2
  • Length: 60 ft 1¼ in (18.31 m)
  • Wingspan: 44 ft 8½ in (13.62 m)
  • Height: 16 ft (4.88 m)
  • Wing area: 500 ft² (46.5 m²)
  • Empty weight: 32,081 lb (14,552 kg)
  • Loaded weight: 47,000 lb (21,320 kg) (in fighter configuration))
  • Max. takeoff weight: 66,000 lb (29,937 kg)
  • Powerplant: 2 × General Electric F414-GE-400 turbofans
    • Dry thrust: 13,000 lbf (62.3 kN) each
    • Thrust with afterburner: 22,000 lbf (97.9 kN) each
  • Internal fuel capacity: F/A-18E: 14,400 lb (6,780 kg), F/A-18F: 13,550 lb (6,354 kg)
  • External fuel capacity: 5 × 480 gal tanks, totaling 16,380 lb (7,381 kg)
Performance
Armament
Avionics

Notable appearances in media[edit]

Main article: F/A-18 Hornet in fiction
Jane's Combat Simulations released a simulator based on the F/A-18E Super Hornet titled "Jane's F/A-18" in 2000. The Super Hornet is the main carrier jet in the film Behind Enemy Lines.

See also[edit]

Portal iconUnited States Navy portal
Portal iconAviation portal
Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
Related lists

References[edit]

Notes[edit]

  1. Jump up^ "... the Pentagon would get $495 million to buy nine Boeing Co. F/A-18E/F fighters..." The average is 80.4 million.[4]
  2. Jump up^ "It (Super Hornet) has only 36 percent of the F-14's payload/range capability."

Citations[edit]

  1. Jump up^ "Navy celebrates 500th Super Hornet, Growler delivery."[dead link] U.S. Navy, 20 April 2011. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  2. Jump up^ "Analysis of the Fiscal Year 2012 Pentagon Spending Request." costofwar.com. Retrieved: 22 September 2011.
  3. Jump up^ "Fiscal Year (FY) 2013 President's Budget Submission: Navy Justification Book Volume 1 Aircraft Procurement, Navy Budget Activities 1–4, p. 1-15." U.S. Department of Defense, February 2012. Retrieved: 24 March 2012.
  4. Jump up^ Capaccio, Tony. "Lockheed F-35 Program Faces $1 Billion Cut in U.S. Senate Spending Measure." Bloomberg, 16 December 2010. Retrieved: 11 May 2011.
  5. Jump up^ Northrop YF-17 Cobra
  6. Jump up^ http://www.ausairpower.net/SuperBug.html
  7. ^ Jump up to:a b c d e f g Jenkins, Dennis R. F/A-18 Hornet: A Navy Success Story. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2000. ISBN 0-07-134696-1.
  8. ^ Jump up to:a b c "F/A-18E/F Super Hornet." Boeing. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  9. Jump up^ Donald 2004, p. 45.
  10. Jump up^ Young, J., R. Anderson and R. Yurkovich. "A Description of the F/A-18E/F Design and Design Process" (F/A-18E intended to replace A-6 and F-14D). 7th AIAA/USAF/NASA/ISSMO Symposium on Multidisciplinary Analysis and Optimization, AIAA-98-4701, St. Louis, Missouri, 2–4 September 1998.
  11. Jump up^ Frost, Patricia. "F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Approved For Low-Rate Production,"[dead link] Boeing, 28 March 1997. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  12. Jump up^ "F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Enters Production."[dead link]Boeing, 22 September 1997. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  13. Jump up^ "Operational and Test Evaluation of F/A-18E/F and F-22 review to Senate Armed Services Committee[dead link] Armed-services.senate.gov, 22 March 2000. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  14. Jump up^ Nathman, John, Rear Admiral U.S. Navy. "DoD Special Briefing on "Super Hornet" Operation Evaluation Results."Defenselink.mil, 15 September 2000. Retrieved: 8 July 2011.
  15. ^ Jump up to:a b c d "F/A-18 fact file." U.S. Navy, 13 October 2006. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  16. Jump up^ "The F/A-18E/F Super Hornet: Tomorrow's Air Power Today."[dead link] National Defense Industrial Association, 4 July 2008.
  17. Jump up^ Cavas, Christopher P. "Navy, Boeing downplay alleged F/A-18 problems." Navy Times, 18 May 2007. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  18. ^ Jump up to:a b c Ozburn, Marguerite. "F/A-18E/F Block II upgrades add to Super Hornet's potent arsenal." Boeing Frontiers, June 2005. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  19. ^ Jump up to:a b c Fulghum, David A. "Navy Details New Super Hornet Capabilities."[dead link] Aviation Week and Space Technology, 25 February 2007. Retrieved: 256 July 2011.
  20. Jump up^ Reed, John. "Boeing: F-35 hasn’t yet won in Japan." DoD Buzz, 16 December 2011.
  21. Jump up^ Jennings, Faith. "Raytheon to Provide Revolutionary AESA Capabilities to 135 F/A-18s." Raytheon, 23 January 2008. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  22. Jump up^ Fulghum, David. A. "Boeing Plans Sixth Generation Fighter With Block 3 Super Hornet" (subscription required). Aviation Week, 30 January 2008. Retrieved: 17 February 2008.
  23. Jump up^ Arror, Shiv. "Boeing Offers India "Super Hornet International Roadmap." livefist, 13 August 2010. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  24. Jump up^ Tournade, Sara. "Boeing well positioned for future strike-fighter market." Boeing, 21 June 2011. Retrieved: 18 December 2011.
  25. Jump up^ Minnick, Wendell. "Boeing Unveils New Hornet Options at Aero India". Defense News, 8 February 2011.
  26. Jump up^ Nativi, Andy. "Boeing Reveals Details Of International F-18."[dead link] Aviation Week, 4 November 2011.
  27. Jump up^ Barrie, Douglas, Amy Butler and Robert Wall. "Manufacturers Vie To Close Fighter Gap."[dead link] Aviation Week, 30 July 2010. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  28. Jump up^ "Testing the next-generation Super Hornet." Flight International, 12 July 2011. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  29. Jump up^ Frost, Patricia. "Boeing Selects Supplier for Super Hornet Block II Infrared Search and Track Capability." Boeing, 2 July 2007.
  30. ^ Jump up to:a b Greenert, Admiral Jonathan (18 September 2013)."Statement Before The House Armed Services Committee On Planning For Sequestration In FY 2014 And Perspectives Of The Military Services On The Strategic Choices And Management Review" (PDF). US House of Representatives. Retrieved 21 September 2013.
  31. Jump up^ Kelly, Heather. "Lockheed Martin Awarded Technology Development Contract for F/A-18E/F Infrared Search and Track Program."[dead link] Lockheed Martin Press Release, 18 May 2009.
  32. Jump up^ Hilliard, Melissa. "Lockheed Martin Awarded U.S. Navy F/A-18 E/F IRST Sensor System EMD Contract."[dead link] Lockheed Martin, 22 November 2011.
  33. Jump up^ Norris, Guy. "GE Eyes More Powerful Engine For Super Hornets, Growlers."[dead link] Aviation Week, 14 May 2009. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  34. Jump up^ Trimble, Stephen. "Boeing's Super Hornet seeks export sale to launch 20% thrust upgrade." Flight International, 12 May 2009.
  35. Jump up^ "Boeing Receives US Navy Contract to Develop New Mission Computer for Super Hornet and Growler." Space Media Network, 15 November 2011.
  36. Jump up^ "Boeing aims to keep building F/A-18 jets through 2020."
  37. Jump up^ Boeing: Advanced Super Hornet makes its debut
  38. Jump up^ Boeing to demo Super Hornet enhancements in summerFlightglobal.com, 9 April 2013
  39. Jump up^ "Company Rolls Out Advanced Super Hornet Options."
  40. Jump up^ Boeing shows off advanced Super Hornet demonstrator - Flightglobal.com, 28 August 2013
  41. Jump up^ Advanced Super Hornet Demonstrates Significant Stealth, Range Improvements - Deagel.com, 28 August 2013
  42. Jump up^ Norris, Guy. "Future Options: Conformal fuel tank attracts Navy interest as part of possible Super Hornet upgrade" (subscription required). Aviation Week and Space Technology, 16 December 2013, pp. 28-29.
  43. Jump up^ US Navy may add conformal fuel tanks to F/A-18E/F Super Hornet fleet Flightglobal.com, 20 March 2013.
  44. Jump up^ Kress, Bob and Paul Gilchrist, Rear Admiral USN ret. "F-14D Tomcat vs. F/18 E/F Super Hornet."[dead link]Flight Journal Magazine, February 2002 Issue.
  45. ^ Jump up to:a b "Boeing Super Hornet Demonstrates Aerial Refueling Capability."[dead link] Boeing Global Strike Systems, 14 April 1999. Retrieved: 25 July 2011.
  46. Jump up^ Donald 2004, p. 76.
  47. ^ Jump up to:a b Donald 2004, pp. 49–52.
  48. Jump up^ "F/A-18E/F Super Hornet – maritime strike attack aircraft."naval-technology.com. Retrieved: 9 September 2011.
  49. ^ Jump up to:a b c Elward 2001, p. 77.
  50. Jump up^ Peterson, Donald. "Ready On Arrival: Super Hornet Joins The Fleet: An Evolutionary Design Delivers Revolutionary Capabilities."[dead link] Navy League, June 2002.
  51. Jump up^ Elward 2001, pp. 74–75.
  52. ^ Jump up to:a b c "F/A-18E/F Super Hornet." Boeing. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  53. Jump up^ Gaddis, Capt. "BD". "F/A-18 & EF-18G Program brief." U.S. Navy, 24 April 2007.
  54. Jump up^ "F/A-18-E/F Super Hornet... Leading Naval Aviation into the 21st Century." U.S. Navy, 17 August 2009. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  55. ^ Jump up to:a b Donald 2004, pp. 50–51, 56.
  56. Jump up^ "USN looking at adding conformal fuel tanks on F/A-18E/F--also a look at Super Hornet RCS reduction measures."
  57. Jump up^ Winchester 2006, p. 166.
  58. Jump up^ "Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornet."[dead link] airframer.com. Retrieved: 12 February 2011.
  59. Jump up^ Pike, John. "AN/ALE-55 Fiber Optic Towed Decoy."Globalsecurity.org, 16 August 2010.
  60. Jump up^ "New APG-79 AESA Radars for Super Hornets." Defense Industry Daily, 26 April 2005. Retrieved: 8 July 2011.
  61. Jump up^ "New U.S. Navy Radar Detects Cruise Missiles." Aviation Week and Space Technology, 30 April 2007.
  62. Jump up^ "F/A-18 AESA – New Technology Revolutionizes Radar Benefits."[dead link] U.S. Navy, 8 July 2002. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  63. Jump up^ "Boeing F/A-18E/F Block 2 Super Hornets Flying at Naval Air Station Oceana."[dead link] Boeing, 8 January 2007.
  64. Jump up^ "Boeing Dual-Cockpit Cueing System Introduced to U.S. Navy Squadron." defense-aerospace.com. Retrieved 16 August 2010.
  65. Jump up^ Clemons, John. "Raytheon Awarded Navy Contract to Increase SHARP System Capability." Raytheon, 4 October 2006.
  66. Jump up^ Rosenberg-Macaulay, Barry. "MIDS JTRS systems poised to bring IP networking to the aerial tier." defensesystems.com, 2011. Retrieved: 12 February 2011.
  67. Jump up^ "JTRS Update: MIDS Blazes JTRS Trail."[dead link] military-information-technology.com, Volume 14, Issue 8, September 2010. Retrieved: 12 February 2011.
  68. Jump up^ Holmes 2004, p. 11.
  69. Jump up^ "USS Carl Vinson CVN-70 History." uscarriers.net, 4 August 2010. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  70. Jump up^ "Strikes Continue: ISAF Air Component Commander Visits Big E." U.S. Navy, 9 November 2006. Retrieved: 9 September 2011.
  71. Jump up^ Moore, Lt. Shannon. "CVW-7 Sailors Complete an Eight-Month Deployment." U.S. Navy, 22 May 2007. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  72. Jump up^ Trimble, Stephen. "US Navy Super Hornet deal could cut JSF numbers." Flight International, 23 July 2007.
  73. Jump up^ Ewing, Philip. "U.S. Navy Mulls New F/A-18E/F Buy."DefenseNews.com, 5 March 2008.
  74. Jump up^ Dunn, Robert F. "Where Have all the Strike Fighters Gone?"Tailhook Daily Briefing, 1 October 2008.
  75. ^ Jump up to:a b Brett, Mary Ann and Philip Carder. "Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet a Finalist in Brazil Fighter Aircraft Competition."Boeing, 1 October 2008.
  76. Jump up^ "DoD News Briefing With Secretary Gates From The Pentagon." defenselink.mil, 6 April 2009. Retrieved: 9 September 2011.
  77. Jump up^ "Navy F/A-18E/F and EA-18G Aircraft Procurement and Strike Fighter Shortfall: Background and Issues for Congress."opencrs.com. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  78. Jump up^ Shalal-Esa, Andrea. "US defense compromise authorizes F/A-18 multiyear deal."[dead link] Forbes. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  79. Jump up^ Tilghman, Andrew. "Bill would give go-ahead to buy Super Hornets." navytimes.com, 25 June 2009. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  80. Jump up^ Trimble, Stephen. "US DoD agrees to buy 124 F/A-18E/Fs and EA-18Gs over 4 years." Flight International, 14 May 2010.
  81. Jump up^ Tilghman, Andrew. "Gates: Fighter gap ignores real-world demand." navytimes.com, 8 June 2006. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  82. Jump up^ Leiser, Ken. "Boeing lands $5.3 billion fighter jet contract with Navy." stltoday.com, 29 September 2010. Retrieved: 29 September 2010.
  83. Jump up^ "Super Hornet Acquisition Contract Signed." defence.gov.au,5 March 2007. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  84. Jump up^ "Australia to Acquire 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets."[dead link]minister.defence.gov.au. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
  85. ^ Jump up to:a b "The 7.30 Report: Nelson stands by fighter jet decision."Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC), 15 March 2007.
  86. Jump up^ Criss, Peter. "There is nothing super about this Hornet." The Sydney Morning Herald, 15 March 2007. Retrieved: 9 May 2007.
  87. Jump up^ Baker, Richard. "The Hornet's nest." The Age, 9 July 2007.
  88. Jump up^ Allard, Tom. "Axe set to fall on Nelson's fighters." The Sydney Morning Herald, 31 December 2007. Retrieved: 4 July 2008.
  89. ^ Jump up to:a b "Govt to keep Super Hornets." The Age, 17 March 2008.
  90. Jump up^ "Government clears Super Hornets deal." The Age, 17 March 2008.
  91. Jump up^ Dunlop, Tim. "Super Hornets are go." news.com.au, 18 March 2008.
  92. Jump up^ "Australia – F/A-18E/F Super Hornet Aircraft."[dead link] U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, 6 February 2007.
  93. Jump up^ Dodd, Mark. "RAAF likes the sound of the Growler."[dead link]The Australian, 15 August 2008.
  94. Jump up^ Smith, Jack. "Super Hornets wired for future upgrades."Department of Defence, 27 February 2009. Retrieved: 9 September 2011.
  95. Jump up^ Carder, Phillip. "Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet for Australia Takes Flight." Boeing, 21 July 2009.
  96. Jump up^ "Super Hornets arrive in south-east Queensland." ABC News, 26 March 2010. Retrieved: 15 July 2011.
  97. Jump up^ Hurst, Daniel. "Pilots buzzing as Super Hornets arrive." The Brisbane Times, 6 July 2010.
  98. Jump up^ Waldron, Greg. "Australia’s first F/A-18F squadron declared operational." Flight International, 9 December 2010.
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  103. Jump up^ Butler, Amy. "Marines Sign on for F-35C." Aviation Week, 14 March 2011. Retrieved: 24 March 2012.
  104. Jump up^ "Super Hornets, Awacs may feature in RMAF modernisation plans." Utusan Malaysia, 16 April 2007. Retrieved: 5 September 2008.
  105. Jump up^ Trimble, Stephen. "Brazil names three finalists for F-X2 contract, rejects three others" Flight International, 6 October 2008.
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  109. Jump up^ Warwick, Graham. "Boeing Submits Danish Super Hornet Proposal"[dead link]. Aviation Week, 28 August 2008.
  110. Jump up^ Brett, Mary Ann and Philip Carder. "Boeing, US Navy Offer Super Hornet for Denmark Fighter Competition" Boeing, 27 August 2008.
  111. Jump up^ "Denmark Prioritizes Jobs in New Fighter Competition"
  112. Jump up^ Nelson, Brian and Kapil Sharma. "Boeing Delivers Proposal to Equip Indian Air Force with Super Hornet Fighters."[dead link]Boeing, 24 April 2008. Retrieved: 29 April 2008.
  113. Jump up^ Nelson, Brian and Swati Rangachari. "Boeing Submits Combat Aircraft Industrial-Participation Proposal to Indian Government."[dead link] Boeing, 4 August 2008.
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  115. Jump up^ Bajaj, Vikas. "U.S. Loses Bids to Supply Jets to India." The New York Times, 28 April 2011. Retrieved: 11 May 2011.
  116. Jump up^ Guse, Paul and Phillip Carder. "Boeing to Offer Super Hornet for Greece's Next-Generation Fighter Program."[dead link]Boeing, 10 March 2009. Retrieved: 22 April 2009.
  117. Jump up^ Clark, Colin, "UK May Borrow F-18s For Carriers: F-35Bs May Be Scrapped." dodbuzz.com, 31 August 2010. Retrieved: 1 September 2010.
  118. Jump up^ Tran, Philip. "UAE May Ditch Rafale: Hornet a Surprise Competitor for $10B Deal." defensenews.com, 13 September 2010. Retrieved: 11 May 2011.
  119. Jump up^ "Aviation companies decry F-35 purchase."[dead link] CBC News, 5 November 2010.
  120. Jump up^ Campion-Smith, Bruce. "Ottawa to overhaul purchase of F-35 fighter jets in wake of Auditor General’s report." Toronto Star, 2 April 2012.
  121. Jump up^ Competition heats up as Ottawa reviews options to procure costly F-35 fighter jets - Hilltimes.com, 5 September 2013
  122. Jump up^ "Bulgarian Defense Chief Gets Saab Offer on Gripen Fighter Jets." Novinite, 4 February 2011.
  123. Jump up^ "Boeing withdraws Super Hornet from Swiss contract race."Flightglobal.com, 30 April 2008. Retrieved: 16 August 2013.
  124. Jump up^ Buliavac, Joseph M. "The aircrew of an F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the "Fighting Redcocks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22, wait to launch from Catapult 3 during night flight operations."[dead link] navy.mil, 2 December 2007. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
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Bibliography[edit]

  • Donald, David. "Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet", Warplanes of the Fleet. London: AIRtime Publishing Inc, 2004. ISBN 978-1-88058-889-5.
  • Elward, Brad. Boeing F/A-18 Hornet (WarbirdTech, Vol. 31). North Branch, Minnesota: Specialty Press, 2001. ISBN 978-1-58007-041-6.
  • Elward, Brad. The Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet & EA-18G Growler: A Developmental and Operational History. Atglen, Pennsylvania: Schiffer Publishing, Ltd. 2013. ISBN 978-0-76434-041-3.
  • Holmes, Tony. US Navy Hornet Units of Operation Iraqi Freedom. London: Osprey Publishing, 2004. ISBN 978-1-84176-801-4.
  • Jenkins, Dennis R. F/A-18 Hornet: A Navy Success Story. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2000. ISBN 978-0-07134-696-2.
  • Winchester, Jim. The Encyclopedia of Modern Aircraft. San Diego: Thunder Bay Press, 2006. ISBN 978-1-59223-628-2.

External links[edit]

Wikimedia Commons has media related to F/A-18E/F Super Hornet.