A Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet over the Pacific Ocean. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Navy
The U.S. Navy has awarded Boeing a contract worth up to $73 million to modernize the F/A-18 Super Hornet. The refresh is expected to add 50% to the fighter’s flight hours, from 6,000 to at least 9,000.
According to Boeing, planned updates for the F/A-18 will include improvements to connectivity, range and the communication system.
The Super Hornet is intended to be in service for years to come, “so making them next-generation aircraft is critical” according to service life modification program director.
Work will begin at Boeing’s St. Louis production center and continue in San Antonio, Texas. With 568 Super Hornets in the U.S. Navy fleet, Boeing said that additional follow-on contracts are a possibility over the next decade.