Explained : Super Hornet Fighter Jets | UPSC

ROLE

It can perform virtually every mission in the tactical spectrum including air superiority,

• Day/night strike with precision guided weapons
• Fighter escort, close air support
• Suppression of enemy air defence
• Maritime strike
• Reconnaissance
• Forward air control and buddy refuelling.

KEY FEATURES

• MULTI-ROLE SUPERIORITY : Capable of tactical strikes, air reconnaissance, air defense, and maritime roles
• CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGIES : Enhanced computing and data link, advanced cockpit system, signature improvements
• LIFECYCLE AFFORDABILITY : Lowest cost per flight hour among all U.S. tactical fighter in production. High mission capability rates
• FUTURE READY : Unrivaled growth potential to complement future air wing capabilities.

SIGNIFICANCE

• Significant technology insertions in the form of advanced cockpit, new computing & advanced data link make the aircraft combat ready .

• More than 700 F/A-18 Hornets and Super Hornets are in operation today.
• F/A-18 Block III Super Hornet will offer superior economics to the Indian armed forces in the form of low cost of acquisition, operations and high mission readiness.

SOURCES : WWW.BOEING.CO.IN

GAME CHANGER FOR THE INDIAN NAVY

• The F/A-18 Super Hornet Block III offers the Indian Navy an advanced, combat proven, multi-role naval fighter.

• Designed as a carrier-based fighter for high- loading, high stress operations, the F/A-18E/F Block III Super Hornet requires minimal support equipment .
• It will offer impressive low cost per flight hour with high mission readiness.
• The F/A-18E/F Block III Super Hornet can act as a force multiplier for the Indian Navy as it interfaces with assets such as the P-8I.

BY INDIA – FOR INDIA SUSTAINMENT

• Boeing’s ‘For India – By India‘ sustainment program builds on the company’s nearly eight decades of history in the country.
• Boeing is leveraging existing programs, growing supply chain capabilities and partnering with the local industry.

• This will further enable its growth and develop advanced expertise in maintenance, resulting in higher availability of the aircraft, at competitive pricing and reduced risk for the Indian armed forces.