Article Posted on : - May 08, 2014

F/A-18F Super Hornet. A Boeing photo

ST. LOUIS, MISSOURI (BNS): US defence major Boeing has delivered the 100th EA-18G Growler to the US Navy, marking a major milestone in the programme that has transformed airborne electronic warfare capability for the U S and its allies.

A derivative of the F/A-18F Super Hornet, the Growler is the only aircraft in production that provides tactical jamming and electronic protection for U S and allied forces. The aircraft is expected to be in service until at least 2040.

The U S Navy has 22 Growlers on its unfunded priorities list for the 2015 fiscal year budget. Current orders take Growler and Super Hornet production through the end of 2016, Boeing said.

"Given the threat environment we are moving into, the Growler will play a major role in identifying, tracking, targeting and potentially firing upon the enemy," said Capt. Frank Morley, U S Navy F/A-18 and EA-18G program manager.