Boeing has revealed that it will complete new-build production of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet in late 2025, following the delivery of the final examples to the US Navy.
In a statement released on February 23, the firm said production could be extended to 2027 if the type were to be selected and acquired by an export customer. Boeing said the decision will allow it to “redirect resources to future military aircraft programmes” and “ramp up production of defence [products]” including the T-7A Red Hawk, F-15EX Eagle II and MQ-25A Stingray, in addition to 777X wing components.
Despite plans to end new-build production, Boeing confirmed it will continue to develop advanced capabilities and upgrade packages for the global F/A-18E/F and EA-18G Growler fleets. Over the next decade, all Block II Super Hornets – which are currently going through the Service Life Modification process – are expected to receive the Block III capability package. The firm will also continue to add new electronic attack capabilities to the Growler as part of ongoing modification work taking place on the type.
Steve Nordlund, vice president of Boeing Air Dominance and site lead at the firm’s St Louis facility, said: “We are planning for our future, and building fighter aircraft is in our DNA. As we invest in and develop the next era of capability, we are applying the same innovation and expertise that made the F/A-18 a workhorse for the US Navy and air forces around the world for nearly 40 years.”
Since the F/A-18 made its operational debut in 1983, McDonnell Douglas and now Boeing – after the latter acquired the former in 1997 – has delivered more than 2,000 legacy Hornets, Super Hornets and Growlers to customers around the world, including Australia, Canada, Finland, Kuwait, Malaysia, Spain, Switzerland and the US.
