LYNN, Massachusetts - The first fleet Boeing EA-18G Growler airborne electronic aircraft powered by F414 engines was delivered to the U.S. Navy (USN) today at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, WA. Approximately 180 propulsion systems to power 90 E/A-18G aircraft are expected to be delivered through 2013.
"We are extremely proud to support the Hornet Industry Team and the United States Navy in their ongoing efforts to strengthen and expand the capabilities of the F/A-18 family of aircraft," said Tony Mathis, vice president -- Lynn Turbofan/Turbojet Projects Department.
Derived from the combat-proven F/A-18F Super Hornet, the EA-18G will serve as the cornerstone of the naval airborne electronic attack (AEA) mission. Its highly flexible design enables warfighters to perform an array AEA missions, operating from either the deck of an aircraft carrier or land-based fields. The USN selected the EA-18G to replace the current AEA platform, the EA-6B Prowler, which has been in service since 1971.
F414 engines powered the EA-18G on its initial flight in St. Louis on August 15, 2006, launching a 22-month flight-test program. Initial USN operational capability is expected to start in 2009.
With more than 900,000 flight-hours, the F414 engine continues to exceed USN reliability goals. The F414-powered F/A-18E/F Super Hornet has expanded its presence in the USN fleet, with 23 active squadrons available for carrier deployment. To date, more than 800 F414 engines have been delivered in support of the USN's plan to purchase engines for 582 twin-engine F/A-18E/F and EA-18G aircraft.
In addition to powering the Super Hornet, the F414 family has also been selected to power the Saab Gripen Next Generation demonstrator aircraft. It is also a potential powerplant for emerging platforms, such as the Korean KF-X and the Indian Medium Combat aircraft, as well as growth versions of the KAI/LMTAS T-50 and India's Light Combat aircraft.