Boeing has delivered the first operational Block III F/A-18 Super Hornet jets, the most advanced version of the Super Hornet, to the US Navy (USN).
The Block III F/A-18 Super Hornet includes an advanced cockpit system with touchscreen display and open mission systems.
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Boeing claims that the aircraft provides the navy with a technology insertion plan that would beat future threats.
According to the company, the new processor in Block III helps in increasing the pilot’s situational awareness.
The Block III F/A-18 Super Hornet jet is now ready to receive ‘apps-based solutions’. This enables the aircraft to receive upgrades throughout its operational life.
The latest delivery is the first of 78 contracted Block III configurations of the fighter.
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By GlobalDataUS Navy F/A-18 and EA-18G programme manager captain Jason Denney said: “The fleet needs capabilities to keep its edge.
“Getting the first operational Block III in our hands is a great step forward in supporting our capability and readiness goals.”
Boeing noted that it would continue Block III capabilities delivery to the USN until the mid-2030s from one new build production and two service life modification lines.
Boeing F/A-18 and EA-18G programmes vice-president Jen Tebo said: “We invested in Block III technology and developed the capabilities in partnership with the UrS Navy to meet its emerging requirements.
“The hardware upgrades are complete. Today we are maximising 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.”
In December last year, Boeing and the US Navy successfully demonstrated the ability of the F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter aircraft to launch from a ski-jump ramp.
The multi-role frontline fighter is designed to meet future aircraft carrier air wing mission requirements.
In June 2020, Boeing delivered two F/A-18 Block III flight-test aircraft to the US Navy.
