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
-
![XTEND wins contract for precision strike drone]()
XTEND wins contract for precision strike drone
XTEND is supplying its Scorpio UAS to meet a US DoD requirement for an indoor/outdoor strike drone.
-
![US Congress limits F-35 procurement]()
US Congress limits F-35 procurement
Restrictions cover new purchases of the three variants of the multirole fighter and require the DoD to correct issues in the acquisition programme.
-
![Spain makes order for 25 Eurofighter Typhoons]()
Spain makes order for 25 Eurofighter Typhoons
Known as the Halcon II programme, the order covers 21 single-seat and four twin-seat aircraft, set to be delivered between 2030 and 2035.
