Boeing has delivered the first of 78 contracted Block III F/A-18 Super Hornets to the US Navy.
Block III gives the US Navy 'the most networked and survivable F/A-18 built with a technology insertion plan that will outpace future threats.'
“The fleet needs capabilities to keep its edge,” said CAPT Jason Denney, US Navy F/A-18 and EA-18G program manager. “Getting the first operational Block III in our hands is a great step forward in supporting our capability and readiness goals.”
Block III’s new adjunct processor translates to a fighter that Boeing says will do 'more work and in far less time', increasing a pilot’s situational awareness. The jet is ready to receive apps-based solutions that will allow upgrades to the aircraft throughout its life span.
“We invested in Block III technology and developed the capabilities in partnership with the US Navy to meet its emerging requirements,” said Jen Tebo, Boeing vice president of F/A-18 and EA-18G programs. “The hardware upgrades are complete. Today we are maximizing the open hardware and software and developing the apps to keep Block III ahead of future threats. We are giving Navy pilots the tools to make the fastest and most informed decisions possible now and in the future.”
Boeing will continue to deliver Block III capabilities to the Navy through the mid-2030s from three lines. One new build production, and two Service Life Modification lines extending the life and eventually upgrading Block II Super Hornets to Block III. The first aircraft delivered will complete the US Navy flight test program before deploying to a squadron.