US Navy F/A-18s return to the Hornets' nest for Block III upgrades
The new variant of the Super Hornet introduces a range of key capabilities, including an advanced cockpit system, distributed targeting processor network and others. (Photo: US DoD)
Boeing's Super Hornet Block III modernisation programme promises to significantly extend the jet's service life, while also introducing advanced capabilities.
The US Navy has recently delivered to Boeing the first Block II F/A-18 Super Hornet to be upgraded to Block III configuration.
The upgrades will be carried out as part of the Service Life Modernization (SLM) programme, which will add 4.000 flight hours to the clock of already delivered Super Hornets.
The SLM programme has been progressing for several years, with its first phase already underway, successfully extending the Super Hornet's service life from 6.000 to 7.500 flight hours.
As for the second phase, set to commence this year, the goal is to further extend the service life to
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
Read this Article
Get access to this article with a Free Basic Account
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 2 free stories per week
- Daily news round-up email service
- Access to all Decisive Edge email newsletters
Unlimited Access
Access to all our premium news as a Premium News 365 Member. Corporate subscriptions available.
- Original curated content, daily across air, land and naval domains
- 14-day free trial (cancel at any time)
- Unlimited access to all published premium news
More from Air Warfare
-
![Turkey’s Baykar strengthens European links with Leonardo and Piaggio Aerospace deals]()
Turkey’s Baykar strengthens European links with Leonardo and Piaggio Aerospace deals
Recent collaborations with Italian aerospace and defence firms have bolstered Baykar’s links throughout Europe and strengthened its credibility as an important player on the continental stage.
-
![Embraer “confident” as C-390 and A-29 production ramps up in 2025]()
Embraer “confident” as C-390 and A-29 production ramps up in 2025
Embraer chief commercial officer Frederico Lemos said that it was aiming to produce more than 10 of its C-390 multi-mission aircraft a year by 2030, with some A-29 aircraft already allocated and ready for delivery.
-
![Boeing CEO notes “confidence” in defence arm despite 20% Q4 revenue loss]()
Boeing CEO notes “confidence” in defence arm despite 20% Q4 revenue loss
Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg indicated ongoing improvements were being made in its defence programmes going forwards, despite being affected in Q4 by cost pressures, higher manufacturing costs and the impact of the IAM strike.
