U.S. Navy F/A-18 E and F Super Hornet Naval fighter jets, made by Boeing, flew for the first time on November 29, 1995. The Super Hornet is 25% larger than its predecessor, the F/A-18C/D, but contains 42% fewer structural parts. The F/A-18/E a single seat and two seats F/A-18/F fly greater ranges with a higher payload, have more powerful engines and offer a better survival.
The aircraft is equipped with new mission computers, fiber optic network, Raytheon ATFLIR AN/ASQ-228 sheath goal, Boeing joint helmet-mounted cueing system and Raytheon AIM-9X Sidewinder air-air art missile.
The U.S. Navy has approved the system development and demonstration (SD & D) for an electronic attack version of the Super Hornet, the EA-18G to replace the EA-6B Prowler. The EA-18G incorporates an enhanced ability III (ICAP III) suite developed for the Prowler. Two SDD aircraft will be delivered. The first EA-18G flight was in August 2006. Requirement is for 90 aircraft and initial operational capability is planned for 2009.
