Raytheon Awarded $372 Million Contract to Enhance Super Hornet and Growler Aircraft
Few companies possess the in-depth knowledge and expertise regarding the Super Hornet and Growler aircraft like Raytheon Technologies. Raytheon’s diverse business operations encompass precision weapons, radars, sensors, avionics, and other critical systems. What sets Raytheon apart is its roster of former fighter pilots who bring firsthand experience and insights into these aircraft’s capabilities. These capabilities span air superiority, close air support, reconnaissance, fighter escort, strike missions, suppressing adversary air defenses, and forward air control. Furthermore, these aircraft are often deployed from aircraft carriers, a task for which the F/A-18 was purpose-built. A significant portion of the F/A-18’s power derives from its ability to utilize the information gathered by the radars and other sensors on board, many of which are supplied by Raytheon Intelligence & Space.
The Boeing F/A-18E and F/A-18F Super Hornets represent twin-engine, carrier-capable, multirole fighter aircraft derived from the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet series. The F/A-18E is a single-seat variant, while the F/A-18F is a tandem-seat version, both of which are larger and more advanced iterations of the F/A-18C and D Hornets. These Super Hornets are equipped with an internal 20mm M61A2 rotary cannon and can carry air-to-air missiles, air-to-surface munitions, and a variety of other weapons. Initially designed and produced by McDonnell Douglas, the Super Hornet made its maiden flight in 1995. Low-rate production commenced in early 1997, with full-rate production beginning in September 1997 following the merger of McDonnell Douglas and Boeing the previous month.
The Boeing EA-18G Growler is an American carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft, a specialized version of the two-seat F/A-18F Super Hornet. The Growler’s flight performance closely mirrors that of the F/A-18E/F, enabling it to perform escort jamming as well as traditional standoff jamming missions, including radar jamming and deception. The EA-18G replaced the Northrop Grumman EA-6B Prowlers in service with the United States Navy. The electronic warfare capabilities of the Growler are primarily provided by Northrop Grumman. Production of the EA-18G began in 2007, and it entered operational service with the US Navy in late 2009. Australia has also procured thirteen EA-18Gs, which entered service with the Royal Australian Air Force in 2017.
In summary, Raytheon’s substantial contract to enhance the Super Hornet and Growler aircraft reflects the critical role these aircraft play in modern military operations and the ongoing commitment to keep them at the forefront of technological capabilities.
