Boeing has announced that it delivered to US Navy two F/A-18 Block III Super Hornets for flight tests.
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These are only the first two of 78 Block III Super Hornets that that American Navy will receive. One jet is a single-seat E model and the other is a two-seat F model.
In a statement published on 17 June by Boeing, Steve Wade, Boeing vice president, F/A-18 & EA-18G program, said that "The aircraft will be used for carrier suitability and integration testing of all Block III mission system components." He added that "these test jets will ensure crews have plenty of time to become comfortable with the new, next-generation systems before receiving operational aircraft."
Enhancements to the aircraft include an advanced cockpit system touchscreen with a display of 10-inch-by-19-inch, enhanced network capability.
Moreover, the Block III configuration adds capability upgrades that include longer range, reduced radar signature and an enhanced communication system. The fighter’s life also will be extended from 6,000 hours to 10,000 hours.
