F/A 18 Super Hornet

        The F/A 18 Super Hornet is the navy’s improvement on the previous generation hornet which was its premier jet for carrier operations. The F/A stands for fighter and attack of which the super hornet prospers in both rolls. The Super Hornet also has a host of improvements over previous F/A 18 jets. It features a new Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, which uses radar waves to steer the radar beam. The Super Hornet also has the capacity to midair refuel other jets in the fleet. It also carries 33% more fuel than the legacy hornet in order to extend range and endurance during operations. It also is compatible with 90% of parts for C/D models of Hornet in order to reduce cost and strain on carrier logistics. 

            The Hornet first entered service in 1999 with the Navy to replace the F-14. The Hornet has a long history in the middle east of attacking enemy air defenses and Islamic State positions. The Hornet also sees use with the Australian Air force. The hornet also serves as an electronic warfare package known as the Growler that Jams and disrupts enemy tracking and attacks. The hornets serve a multitude of roles including air dominance, precision strike, fighter escort, reconnaissance, and tanker capabilities are part of their
use on a carrier. The super hornet comes in different configurations between a two-seat and one-seat version. The extra seat is referred to as the RIO who can help control airspace and provide mission control.

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