First Aussie Growler presented
Boeing and the US Navy have presented the first EA-18G Growler electronic warfare (EW) aircraft to the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), the company announced on 29 July. Australia is the first foreign country to acquire the aircraft.
The aircraft will now undergo flight testing at the US Navy's China Lake, California air station ahead of flying to the Whidbey Island, Washington air station, where RAAF operators will train with US Navy pilots. The RAAF will take delivery of the aircraft in 2017.
Boeing was awarded the contract for 12 Growlers for the RAAF in June 2014, under a foreign military sales agreement with the US Navy.
The EA-18G Growler is derived from the F/A-18 Super Hornet and provides tactical jamming and electronic protection. It will advance the RAAF's 'Plan Jericho' initiative to form a networked, integrated force.
Air Marshal Geoff Brown, former chief, RAAF, said: 'The Growlers will complement our existing and future air combat capability, and we will be much more lethal with this AEA protection. In many respects, it’s the final piece of the jigsaw puzzle for the RAAF.'
Chris Chadwick, president and CEO, defense, space and security, Boeing, said: 'Today, we celebrate enduring partnerships with the RAAF, US Navy and our industry team. The US Navy, RAAF and Boeing's continued investment and innovation mean the Growler is not only the world’s premier electronic attack platform today, but will remain so for many decades to come.'
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