On August 1, the U.S. Navy celebrated its F/A-18 and EA-18G combat aircraft surpassing 12 million flight hours, highlighting that this is one of the longest-serving fleets currently in operation among the world’s naval forces. These aircraft have formed the backbone of the Air Force capabilities of the Navy, as well as the U.S. Marine Corps, for several decades, having entered service in the 1980s and expected to continue in production at least until 2027.
Captain Michael Burks, current Program Manager of the F/A-18 and EA-18G Program Office (PMA-265), commented on the milestone: “Throughout their service, the F/A-18 and EA-18G family has supported virtually every major U.S. military conflict over the past 40 years and continues to adapt to constantly evolving threat environments. From the initial deployment of the Hornet to the advanced capabilities of the Super Hornet and Growler, these aircraft have provided forward presence, tactical airpower, and critical electronic warfare capabilities worldwide.”
It is worth noting that the F/A-18 Hornet mentioned by Captain Burks is the original model, introduced in the 1980s as a highly versatile fighter and attack aircraft. The F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, in turn, is the product of multiple modernization efforts over the base design, incorporating improvements in radar, avionics, and payload capacity. Meanwhile, the EA-18G Growler is a variant specifically designed for missions requiring electronic warfare capabilities.
Additionally, the U.S. Navy continues to work on these platforms to ensure they remain suitable for current operational scenarios. In this regard, a Service Life Modification (SLM) program is underway for the Super Hornet, which would extend its flight hour limit from 6,000 to 10,000. Block III variants are also being equipped with redesigned cockpits and advanced new sensors, while the Growler will receive upgrades to optimize its mission systems.
Looking more broadly at the current state of U.S. naval aviation, these modernization efforts not only enhance the F/A-18 family’s capabilities but also buy time for the delayed integration of F-35 stealth fighters into various squadrons and the development of the future F/A-XX program, which will eventually replace them. It is worth noting that the latter program faces significant budgetary challenges, with the aircraft’s design and manufacturer yet to be selected; Boeing and Northrop Grumman are considered the main contenders. In response, the U.S. Congress is promoting new legislation to inject up to $1.4 billion to help the program proceed more smoothly.
*Images used for illustrative purposes only
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