Boeing delivers first two F/A-18 Block III Super Hornets ahead of schedule
Boeing has successfully modernized the first two Super Hornets F/A-18 Block III and delivered them to the US Navy earlier than expected. This significant milestone marks a major advancement in the Service Life Modification (SLM) program.
Main Achievements
- Early Deliveries:
- The first Super Hornet was delivered from St. Louis one month ahead of schedule.
- The second was delivered from San Antonio two months early.
- Enhanced Capabilities:
- The upgraded jets match the capabilities of newly built Super Hornets Block III.
- Features include a large screen, tactical targeting network technology, and a networked open systems mission processor with distributed targeting processor.
- Efficiency and Productivity:
- Setting a benchmark for the state of Block II F/A-18s.
- Sharing best practices across multiple SLM sites.
- A public-private partnership with the Navy, expanding work to the Fleet Readiness Center Southwest in San Diego.
Statements
- Faye Dixon, Boeing SLM Director: « Our success in meeting the accelerated schedule is proof that our life extension modification plan is working.«
- Mark Sears, Boeing Fighters VP: « These are just the first deliveries in a long series, with about 15 years of SLM deliveries ahead. Our fighters rely on us to deliver every time.«
- Captain Michael Burks, Program Manager for F/A-18 and EA-18G programs: « These initial deliveries of Block III SLM jets mark a major milestone in our ongoing efforts to ensure the capability, reliability, availability, and maintainability of the Super Hornet aircraft.«
Future Outlook
The public-private partnership agreement signed in March has expanded Block III SLM work to other sites, ensuring that the US Navy will continue to receive enhanced and high-capacity Super Hornets over the next 15 years. This initiative underscores Boeing’s commitment to maintaining and improving the operational readiness and efficiency of the US Navy fleet.
