First SLM F/A-18 delivered to US Navy
The first F/A-18 to undergo the Service Life Modification (SLM) programme has been redelivered to the US Navy by Boeing.
The SML is extending the service life of the Super Hornet from 6,000 to 7,500 flight hours. Future modification plans in the early 2020s will enable the jets to fly 10,000 hours and incorporate the new Block III capabilities.
The Block III conversion will include enhanced network capability, conformal fuel tanks, an advanced cockpit system, signature improvements and an enhanced communication system.
There are now 15 Super Hornets in the SLM programme on production lines in St Louis and San Antonio. It takes 18 months to complete modifications on an F/A-18, although that time will be driven down to one year as the programme progresses.
The second SLM jet will deliver by the end of the month, and Boeing will deliver the third F/A-18 in April.
More from Air Warfare
-
Lockheed Martin signs with Patria for F-35 landing gear doors
Finland’s purchase of F-35A aircraft was approved as a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) in October 2020 and 14 months later the aircraft was selected by the Finnish government. The FMS announcement noted a deal for 64 F-35A aircraft along with missiles, munitions and related equipment for an estimated cost of US$12.5 billion.
-
Turkey completes first AESA radar flight test on F-16 Ozgur with drone trials imminent “within days”
Turkey’s homegrown MURAD radar system has promised to enhance Turkish air combat missions, offering simultaneous air-to-air and air-to-ground functionality, enhanced target detection and EW capabilities.
-
US Navy orders 17 new Super Hornets
New contract awarded to Boeing will see the delivery of 17 new F/A-18 Block III Super Hornet fighters and critical technical data.