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Boeing delivers newest upgraded F/A-18 and reaffirms production end

27th June 2024 - 16:45 GMT | by Damian Kemp in Jacksonville, Florida

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The upgrade will take the aircraft to the latest standard. (Photo: Boeing)

Boeing’s Super Hornet Block III modernisation programme has promised to significantly extend the jet’s service life and introduce advanced capabilities. The programme’s first aircraft were delivered to be upgraded in mid-2023.

Boeing has handed over the first two Super Hornet F/A-18 Block III Service Life Modification (SLM) Block III fighters to the US Navy. The development occurred ahead of schedule, according to the company, ahead of moves to open a third site for SLM upgrades as the end of the production of new aircraft nears.

One of the SLM upgrades occurred at Boeing’s St Louis facility where the aircraft was delivered a month early. The other completed upgrade occurred at the company’s San Antonio facility where it was reported as being delivered two months early.

A third site is set to open at the Navy’s

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