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The Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet and related twin-seat F/A-18F are twin-engine carrier-capable multirole fighter aircraft variants based on the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet. The F/A-18E single-seat and F/A-18F tandem-seat variants are larger and more advanced derivatives of the F/A-18C and D Hornet. The Super Hornet has an internal 20 mm M61 rotary cannon and can carry air-to-air missiles and air-to-surface weapons. Additional fuel can be carried in up to five external fuel tanks and the aircraft can be configured as an airborne tanker by adding an external air refueling system.
Designed and initially produced by McDonnell Douglas, the Super Hornet first flew in 1995. Full-rate production began in September 1997, after the merger of McDonnell Douglas and Boeing the previous month. The Super Hornet entered service with the United States Navy in 1999, replacing the Grumman F-14 Tomcat, which was retired in 2006; the Super Hornet serves alongside the original Hornet. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), which has operated the F/A-18A as its main fighter since 1984, ordered the F/A-18F in 2007 to replace its aging F-111 fleet. RAAF Super Hornets entered service in December 2010.
The Super Hornet is an evolutionary redesign of the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet. The Super Hornet's unique wing and tail configuration can be traced back to an internal Northrop project P-530, c. 1965; this had started as a substantial rework of the lightweight F-5E with a larger wing, twin tail fins and a distinctive leading edge root extension (LERX).[5] Later flying as the Northrop YF-17 "Cobra", it competed in the United States Air Force's Lightweight Fighter (LWF) program to produce a smaller and simpler fighter to complement the larger F-15 Eagle. The Navy directed that the YF-17 be redesigned into the larger F/A-18 Hornet to meet a requirement for a multi-role fighter to complement the larger F-14 Tomcat serving in air superiority and fleet defense interceptor roles. The Hornet proved to be effective but limited in combat radius. Its design was expanded in the Super Hornet, which has an empty weight slightly greater than the F-15C.[6]
The concept of an enlarged Hornet was first proposed in 1980s, which was marketed by McDonnell Douglas as Hornet 2000. The Hornet 2000 concept was an advanced F/A-18 with a larger wing and a longer fuselage to carry more fuel and more powerful engines.[7] In January 1988, the Hornet 2000 study was officially announced.[8] At the same time, U.S. Naval Aviation faced a number of problems; the McDonnell Douglas A-12 Avenger II, which was intended to replace the obsolete Grumman A-6 Intruder and LTV A-7 Corsair II, was cancelled after the program ran into serious problems. The end of the Cold War led to a period of military budget cuts and considerable restructuring.[9] The Navy considered updating an existing design as a more attractive approach to a clean-sheet program. As an alternative to the A-12, McDonnell Douglas proposed the "Super Hornet" (initially "Hornet II" in the 1980s), an improvement of the successful early F/A-18 models,[8] which could serve as an alternate replacement for the A-6 Intruder. At the same time, the Navy needed a fleet defense fighter to replace the canceled Navy Advanced Tactical Fighter (NATF), which would have been a navalized variant of the Air Force's Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor.[7]
The Super Hornet was first ordered by the U.S. Navy in 1992, in part to replace the F-14 Tomcat; all naval combat jets were on Hornet variants until the introduction of the F-35C Lightning II.[10] The Navy retained the F/A-18 designation to help sell the program to Congress as a low-risk "derivative", though the Super Hornet is largely a new aircraft. The Hornet and Super Hornet share many characteristics, including avionics, ejection seats, radar, armament, mission computer software, and maintenance/operating procedures. The initial F/A-18E/F retained most of the avionics systems from the F/A-18C/D's configuration at the time.[7]
The Super Hornet first flew on 29 November 1995.[7] Initial production on the F/A-18E/F began in 1995. Flight testing started in 1996 with the F/A-18E/F's first carrier landing in 1997.[7] Low-rate production began in March 1997[11] with full production beginning in September 1997.[12] Testing continued through 1999, finishing with sea trials and aerial refueling demonstrations. Testing involved 3,100 test flights covering 4,600 flight hours.[8] The Super Hornet underwent U.S. Navy operational tests and evaluations in 1999,[13] and was approved in February 2000.[14]
The Navy considers the Super Hornet's acquisition a success, meeting cost, schedule, and weight (400 lb, 181 kg below) requirements.[15] While having the same general layout and systems, the Super Hornet differs in many ways from the original F/A-18 Hornet. The Super Hornet is informally referred to as the "Rhino" to distinguish it from earlier "legacy" Hornets and to prevent confusion in radio calls. This aids safe flight operations, as the catapult and arresting systems must be set differently for the heavier Super Hornet. (The "Rhino" nickname was earlier used by the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, which was retired from the fleet in 1987.)
As of 2014, the U.S. Navy flies both the F/A-18E single-seater and F/A-18F two-seater in combat roles, taking the place of the retired F-14, A-6 Intruder, Lockheed S-3 Viking, and KA-6D. An electronic warfare variant, the EA-18G Growler, replaces the EA-6B Prowler. The Navy calls this reduction in aircraft types a "neck-down". In the Vietnam War era, the Super Hornet's roles were performed by a combination of the A-1/A-4/A-7 (light attack), A-6 (medium attack), F-8/F-4 (fighter), RA-5C (recon), KA-3/KA-6 (tanker) and EA-6 (electronic warfare). It is anticipated that $1 billion in fleetwide annual savings will result from replacing other types with the Super Hornet.[16]
In 2003, the Navy identified a flaw present in the under wing pylons across the Super Hornet fleet which required remedial repairs, or would otherwise decrease the aircraft's service life. As of 2007, changes to rectify the problem on newly manufactured airframes had been implemented, and existing aircraft would also receive modifications from 2009 onwards.[17]
The Block II Super Hornet incorporates an improved Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, larger displays, the joint helmet mounted cuing system, and several other avionics replacements.[18][19] Avionics and weapons systems that were under developement for the prospective production version of the Boeing X-32 were used on the Block II Super Hornet.[20] New-build aircraft received the APG-79 AESA radar beginning in 2005.[18] In January 2008, it was announced that 135 earlier production aircraft were to be retrofitted with AESA radars.[21]
In 2008, Boeing discussed the development of a Super Hornet Block III with the U.S. and Australian military, featuring additional stealth capabilities and extended range.[22] In 2010, Boeing offered prospective Super Hornet customers the "International Roadmap", which included conformal fuel tanks, enhanced engines, an enclosed weapons pod (EWP), a next-generation cockpit, a new missile warning system, and an internal infra-red search and track (IRST) system.[23][24] The EWP has four internal stations for munitions, a single aircraft can carry a total of three EWPs, housing up to 12 AMRAAMs and 2 Sidewinders.[25][26] The next-generation cockpit features a 19 x 11 inch touch-sensitive display.[27] In 2011, Boeing received a US Navy contract to develop a new mission computer.[28]
In 2007, Boeing stated that a passive Infrared Search and Track (IRST) sensor would be an available future option. The sensor, mounted in a modified centerline fuel tank, detects long wave IR emissions to spot and track targets such as aircraft;[29] combat using the IRST and AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles is immune to radar jamming.[30] In May 2009, Lockheed Martin announced its selection by Boeing for the IRST's technology development phase,[31] and a contract followed in November 2011.[32] As of September 2013, a basic IRST would be fielded in 2016 and a longer-range version in 2019; sequestration cuts in 2013 could cause two years of delays.[30] An F/A-18F performed a flight equipped with the IRST system in February 2014, and Milestone C approval authorizing low-rate initial production (LRIP) was granted in December 2014.[33]
Boeing and Northrop Grumman self-funded a prototype of the Advanced Super Hornet.[34] The prototype features a 50% reduction in frontal radar cross-section (RCS), conformal fuel tanks (CFT), and an enclosed weapons pod.[35][36] Features could also be integrated onto the EA-18G Growler; using CFTs on the EA-18 fleet was speculated as useful to releasing underwing space and drag margin for the Next Generation Jammer.[37][38] Flight tests of the Advanced Super Hornet began on 5 August 2013 and continued for three weeks, testing the performance of CFTs, the enclosed weapons pod (EWP), and signature enhancements.[39] The U.S. Navy was reported pleased with the Advanced Super Hornet's flight test results, and hopes it will give lawmakers options in future procurements.[40]
In March 2013, the U.S. Navy was considering the widespread adoption of conformal fuel tanks, which would allow the Super Hornet to carry 3,500 lb (1,600 kg) of additional fuel. Budgetary pressures from the F-35C Lightning II and Pacific region operations were cited as reasons supporting the use of CFTs. Flight testing demonstrated CFTs could slightly reduce drag while expanding the combat radius by 260 nautical miles.[41] The prototype CFT weighed 1,500 lb, production CFTs are expected to weigh 870 lb. Boeing stated that the CFTs do not add any cruise drag but acknowledged a negative impact imposed on transonic acceleration due to increased wave drag. General Electric's enhanced performance engine (EPE), increasing the F414-GE-400's power output from 22,000 lb to 26,400 lb of thrust per engine, was suggested as a mitigating measure.[42] In 2009, development commenced on several engine improvements, including greater resistance to foreign object damage, reduced fuel burn rate, and potentially increased thrust of up to 20%.[43][44]
Boeing has conceptualized a Super Hornet hybrid, to be equipped with the EA-18G Growler's electronic signal detection capabilities, giving it the ability to engage targets seen using the receiver; Boeing's concept did not include the ALQ-99 jamming pod. Growth capabilities could include the addition of a long-range infrared search and track sensor and new air-to-air tracking modes.[45]
The Super Hornet is largely a new aircraft. It is about 20% larger, 7,000 lb (3,200 kg) heavier empty weight, and 15,000 lb (6,800 kg) heavier maximum weight than the original Hornet. The Super Hornet carries 33% more internal fuel, increasing mission range by 41% and endurance by 50% over the "Legacy" Hornet. The empty weight of the Super Hornet is about 11,000 lb (5,000 kg) less than that of the F-14 Tomcat which it replaced, while approaching, but not matching, the F-14's payload and range.[46][N 2]
The Super Hornet, unlike the previous Hornet, is designed so it can be equipped with an aerial refueling system (ARS) or "buddy store" for the refueling of other aircraft,[47] filling the tactical airborne tanker role the Navy had lost with the retirement of the KA-6D and Lockheed S-3B Viking tankers. The ARS includes an external 330 US gal (1,200 L) tank with hose reel on the centerline, along with four external 480 US gal (1,800 L) tanks and internal tanks, for a total of 29,000 lb (13,000 kg) of fuel on the aircraft.[47][48] On typical missions a fifth of the air wing is dedicated to the tanker role, which consumes aircraft fatigue life expectancy faster than other missions.[49]
The forward fuselage is unchanged, but the remainder of the aircraft shares little with earlier F/A-18C/D models. The fuselage was stretched by 34 in (86 cm) to make room for fuel and future avionics upgrades and increased the wing area by 25%.[50] However, the Super Hornet has 42% fewer structural parts than the original Hornet design.[51] The General Electric F414 engine, developed from the Hornet's F404, has 35% additional thrust over most of the aircraft's flight envelope.[50][52] The Super Hornet can return to an aircraft carrier with a larger load of unspent fuel and munitions than the original Hornet. The term for this ability is known as "bringback". Bringback for the Super Hornet is in excess of 9,000 lb (4,100 kg).[53]
Other differences include approximately rectangular intakes for the engines and two extra wing hard points for payload (for a total of 11), retaining previous hardpoints on the bottom centerline, wingtips, and two conformal fuselage positions.[54] Among the most significant aerodynamic changes are the enlarged leading edge extensions (LEX) which provide improved vortex lifting characteristics in high angle of attack maneuvers, and reduce the static stability margin to enhance pitching characteristics. This results in pitch rates in excess of 40 degrees per second, and high resistance to departure from controlled flight.[55]
Survivability is an important feature of the Super Hornet design. The U.S. Navy took a "balanced approach" to survivability in its design.[56] This means that it does not rely on low-observable technology, such as stealth systems, to the exclusion of other survivability factors. Instead, its design incorporates a combination of stealth, advanced electronic-warfare capabilities, reduced ballistic vulnerability, the use of standoff weapons, and innovative tactics that cumulatively and collectively enhance the safety of the fighter and crew.[57]
The F/A-18E/F's radar cross-section was reduced greatly from some aspects, mainly the front and rear.[7] The design of the engine inlets reduces the aircraft's frontal radar cross-section. The alignment of the leading edges of the engine inlets is designed to scatter radiation to the sides. Fixed fanlike reflecting structures in the inlet tunnel divert radar energy away from the rotating fan blades.[58]
The Super Hornet also makes considerable use of panel joint serration and edge alignment. Considerable attention has been paid to the removal or filling of unnecessary surface join gaps and resonant cavities. Where the F/A-18A-D used grilles to cover various accessory exhaust and inlet ducts, the F/A-18E/F uses perforated panels that appear opaque to radar waves at the frequencies used. Careful attention has been paid to the alignment of many panel boundaries and edges, to direct reflected waves away from the aircraft in uniformly narrow angles.[7]
It is claimed that the Super Hornet employs the most extensive radar cross section reduction measures of any contemporary fighter, other than the F-22 and F-35. While the F/A-18E/F is not a true stealth fighter like the F-22, it will have a frontal radar cross-section an order of magnitude smaller than prior generation fighters.[58] Additional RCS reduction measures can be installed on an as-needed basis.[59]
Initially, the Super Hornet's avionics and software had a 90% commonality with that of the F/A-18C/D fleet at the time.[52] Differences include a touch-sensitive, up-front control display; a large liquid-crystal multipurpose color display; and a fuel display.[52] The Super Hornet has a quadruplex digital fly-by-wire system,[60] as well as a digital flight-control system that detects and corrects for battle damage.[55] Initial production models used the APG-73 radar, later replaced by the APG-79 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA).[18][19] The AN/ASQ-228 ATFLIR (Advanced Targeting Forward Looking InfraRed), is the main electro-optical sensor and laser designator pod for the Super Hornet. The communications equipment consist of an AN/ARC-210 VHF/UHF radio[61] and a MIDS low volume terminal for HAVE QUICK, SINCGARS and Link 16 connectivity.
The defensive countermeasures of Block I aircraft includes the AN/ALR-67(V)3 radar warning receiver, the AN/ALE-47 countermeasures dispenser, the AN/ALE-50 towed decoy and the AN/ALQ-165 Airborne Self-Protect Jammer (ASPJ). Block II aircraft replace the ALQ-165 with the AN/ALQ-214 Integrated Defensive Countermeasures (IDECM) system, consisting of internally mounted threat receivers and optional self-protection jammers. Interior and exterior lighting on the Block II was changed to allow the use of night vision goggles (NVG). The older ALE-50 decoys are being replaced by ALE-55 towed decoys, which can transmit jamming signals based on data received from the IDECM.[62] The improved AN/ALQ-214 jammer was added on Block II aurcraft.[19]
Block II aircraft were fitted with the APG-79 AESA radar, capable of executing simultaneous air-to-air and air-to-ground attacks, and providing higher quality high-resolution ground mapping at long standoff ranges.[63] The AESA radar can also detect smaller targets, such as inbound missiles[64] and can track air targets beyond the range of the aircraft's air to air missiles.[65] VFA-213, the first Super Hornet squadron to fly AESA-equipped Super Hornets, became "safe for flight" (independently fly and maintain the F/A-18F) on 27 October 2006.[66] The first Super Hornet upgraded with the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (JHMCS) was delivered to VFA-213 on 18 May 2007.[67] The JHMCS provides multi-purpose situational awareness, which includes high-off-bore-sight missile cuing. The Shared Reconnaissance Pod (SHARP) is a high-resolution, digital tactical air reconnaissance system that features advanced day/night and all-weather capability.[68] The Multifunctional Information Distribution System low volume communication terminal is being upgraded with the MIDS-JTRS system,[69] which will allow a tenfold increase in bandwidth as well as compatibility with the Joint Tactical Radio System standards.[70]
The Super Hornet achieved initial operating capability (IOC) in September 2001 with the U.S. Navy's Strike Fighter Squadron 115 (VFA-115) at Naval Air Station Lemoore, California.[15] VFA-115 was also the first unit to take their F/A-18 Super Hornets into combat. On 6 November 2002, two F/A-18Es conducted a "Response Option" strike in support of Operation Southern Watch on two surface-to-air missile launchers at Al Kut, Iraq and an air defense command and control bunker at Tallil air base. One of the pilots, Lieutenant John Turner, dropped 2,000 lb (910 kg) JDAM bombs from the Super Hornet for the first time during combat.[71]
In support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (Iraq War), VFA-14, VFA-41 and VFA-115 flew close air support, strike, escort, SEAD and aerial refueling sorties. Two F/A-18Es from VFA-14 and two F/A-18Fs from VFA-41 were forward deployed to the Abraham Lincoln. The VFA-14 aircraft flew mostly as aerial refuelers and the VFA-41 fighters as Forward Air Controller (Airborne) or FAC(A)s. On 6 April 2005, VFA-154 and VFA-147 (the latter squadron then still operating F/A-18Cs) dropped two 500-pound (230 kg) laser-guided bombs on an enemy insurgent location east of Baghdad.[72]
On 8 September 2006, VFA-211 F/A-18F Super Hornets expended GBU-12 and GBU-38 bombs against Taliban fighters and Taliban fortifications west and northwest of Kandahar. This was the first time the unit had participated in an active combat capacity using the Super Hornet.[73][74]
During the 2006–2007 cruise with Dwight D. Eisenhower, VFA-103 and VFA-143 supported Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and operations off the Somali coast. Alongside "Legacy Hornet" squadrons, VFA-131 and VFA-83, they dropped 140 precision guided weapons and performed nearly 70 strafing runs.[75]
In 2007, Boeing proposed additional F/A-18E/Fs to the U.S. Navy in a multi-year contract.[76] As of October 2008, Boeing had delivered 367 Super Hornets to the U.S. Navy.[77] On 6 April 2009, Defense Secretary Gates announced that the Department of Defense intended to acquire 31 F/A-18s in FY2010.[78] Congress requested the DoD study a further multi-year contract so that a projected fighter shortfall could be averted;[79] in 2006, the Navy was 60 fighters below its validated aircraft requirement.[80] The FY2010 budget bill authorized a multiyear purchase agreement for additional Super Hornets.[81][82] A multi-year contract was finalized on 28 September 2010, reported as saving $600 million over individual yearly contracts, for 66 Super Hornets and 58 Growlers to mitigate a four-year delay in the F-35 program.[83]
On 7 August 2014, U.S. defense officials announced they had authorizated to launch bombing missions upon Kurdish forces defending the city.[84][85] Later that day, four more aircraft struck a seven-vehicle convoy and a mortar position.[86]
On 3 May 2007, the Australian Government signed a A$2.9 billion contract to acquire 24 F/A-18Fs for the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) as an interim replacement for aging F-111s.[87] The total cost with training and support over 10 years is A$6 billion (US$4.6 billion).[88] The order was controversial. Air Vice Marshal (ret.) Peter Criss, a former Air Commander, said he was "absolutely astounded" that $6 billion would be spend on an interim aircraft,[89] and cited evidence given by the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee that the Super Hornet Block I's specific excess power is inferior to the MiG-29 and Su-30 being operated, or ordered, by multiple air forces in South East Asia.[90] Air Commodore (ret.) Ted Bushell stated that the F/A-18F could not perform the assigned role, and that the F-111 was suitable for the strategic deterrent/strike role until at least 2020.[89] It was claimed the F/A-18F purchase may ease additional Australian Super Hornet sales, particularly if the F-35 program ran into more difficulty.[91]
A review was announced on 31 December 2007, by the new Australian Labor government, as part of a wider review of the RAAF's combat aircraft procurement plans. The main reasons given were concerns over operational suitability, the lack of a proper review process, and internal beliefs that an interim fighter was not required.[92] On 17 March 2008, the Government announced that it would proceed with plans to acquire all 24 F/A-18Fs.[93] Defence Minister Joel Fitzgibbon said that the Super Hornet was an "excellent aircraft";[93] he also indicated that costs and logistical factors contributed to the decision: the F-111's retirement was "irreversible"; "only" the F/A-18F could meet the timeframe and that cancellation "would bring significant financial penalties and create understandable tensions between the contract partners."[94][95]
The Block II package aircraft offered to the RAAF include installed engines and six spares, APG-79 AESA radars, Link 16 connectivity, LAU-127 guided missile launchers, AN/ALE-55 fiber optic towed decoys and other equipment.[96] The government has also sought U.S. export approval for Boeing EA-18G Growlers.[97] On 27 February 2009, Fitzgibbon announced that 12 of the 24 Super Hornets would be wired on the production line for future modification as EA-18Gs. The additional wiring would cost A$35 million. The final decision on conversion to EA-18Gs, at a cost of A$300 million, would be made in 2012.[98]
The first RAAF Super Hornet was completed in 2009 and first flew from Boeing's factory in St. Louis, Missouri on 21 July 2009.[99] RAAF crews began training in the USA in 2009. The RAAF's first five F/A-18Fs arrived at their home base, RAAF Base Amberley in Queensland, on 26 March 2010;[100] and were joined by six more aircraft on 7 July 2010.[101] Following the arrival of another four aircraft in December 2010, the first RAAF F/A-18F squadron was declared operational on 9 December 2010.[102]
In December 2012, the Australian government sought information from the United States about the cost of acquiring a further 24 F/A-18Fs., which may be purchased to avoid a capability gap due to F-35 program delays.[103] In February 2013, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Australia for up to 12 F/A-18E/F and 12 EA-18G Growler aircraft with associated equipment, training and logistical support.[104] In May 2013, Australia announced they would retain the 24 F/A-18F instead of converting them, and will order 12 new EA-18Gs.[105]
On 24 September 2014, eight RAAF F/A-18Fs, along with a tanker, an early warning aircraft, and 400 personnel arrived in the United Arab Emirates to take part in operations against Islamic State (IS) militants. The F/A-18Fs were ready to commence attacks once ordered.[106] On 5 October 2014, the RAAF officially started combat missions over Iraq, with a pair of F/A-18Fs armed with GPS guided bombs and a KC-30A refuelling aircraft; they returned safely to base without attacking targets.[107][108] On 8 October 2014, an Australian Super Hornet conducted its first attack against IS forces, dropped two bombs on an ISIL facility in northern Iraq.[109]
The United States Marine Corps has avoided the Super Hornet program and their resistance is so high that they would rather fly former Navy F/A-18Cs that have been replaced with Super Hornets. This is said to be because they fear that any Super Hornet buys will be at the cost of the F-35B STOVL fighters that they intend to operate from amphibious ships.[110] As a concession, the Marine Corps has agreed to eventually equip five Marine fighter-attack squadrons (VMFA) with the F-35C carrier variant to continue to augment Navy carrier air wings as they currently do with the F/A-18C.[111]
Boeing offered Malaysia the Super Hornets as part of a buy-back package for its existing F/A-18 Hornets in 2002. However, the Super Hornet procurement was halted in 2007 after the government decided to purchase the Sukhoi Su-30MKM instead. But Chief Gen. Datuk Nik Ismail Nik Mohamaed of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) indicated that the air force had not planned to end procurement of the Super Hornets, instead saying that it needed such fighters.[112] In a separate deal, the RMAF's MiG-29 will be replaced in 2015. The F/A-18F Super Hornet is one of the leading contenders for the MiG-29 replacement MRCA program. Under the program, the RMAF is looking to equip three squadrons with 36 to 40 new fighter aircraft with an estimated budget of RM6 billion to RM8 billion (US$1.84 billion to US$2.46 billion). The other competitors are the Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale and Saab JAS 39 Gripen.[113]
Boeing proposed the Super Hornet to the Brazilian government. It was reported that the Super Hornet was selected as one of three finalists in Brazil's fighter competition in October 2008. Brazil has put forward an initial requirement for 36 aircraft, with a potential total purchase of 120 examples.[77][114] However news of NSA's spying activity on Brazilian leaders has caused animosity between Brazil and the US.[115] Brazil eventually dropped the Super Hornet from its final list and selected the Saab JAS 39 Gripen in December 2013.[116]
In 2008, the Royal Danish Air Force was offered the Super Hornet.[117] The Super Hornet is one of three fighter aircraft in a Danish competition to replace 48 F-16AM/BMs.[118][119] The other contenders are Lockheed Martin's F-35A Joint Strike Fighter and the Eurofighter Typhoon. Denmark is a level-3 partner in the JSF program, and has invested US$200 million so far. The final selection is to be in mid-2015 where 24 to 30 fighters are expected.[120] In April 2014, the Danish Ministry of Defence handed over a Request for Binding Information (RBI) that specifically listed the F/A-18F two-seat variant.[121]
For India's MMRCA competition, Boeing offered a customized variant called F/A-18IN, which included Raytheon's APG-79 AESA radar.[122] In August 2008, Boeing submitted an industrial participation proposal to India describing partnerships with companies in India.[123] The Indian Air Force (IAF) extensively evaluated the Super Hornets and conducted field trials in August 2009.[124] However, in April 2011, the IAF rejected F/A-18IN's bid in favor of the Eurofighter Typhoon and Dassault Rafale.[125]
On 10 March 2009, Boeing offered the Super Hornet for Greece's Next-Generation Fighter Program.[126]
On 1 August 2010, The Sunday Times reported that the British government was considering canceling orders for the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II and buying the Super Hornet instead for its Queen Elizabeth class aircraft carriers. It was stated that this would save the UK defense budget about £10 billion. An industry source suggested that the Super Hornet could be ski jump launched without catapults.[127] The UK has reverted to a STOVL aircraft carrier equipped with F-35B fighters.
The United Arab Emirates has asked for information on the Super Hornet.[128]
Boeing stated that the "stealth characteristics" of the Super Hornet were ignored in Canada's sole source selection of the F-35.[129] In April 2012, Canada was reviewing its plans to procure the F-35 and may consider buying the Super Hornet instead.[130] In September 2013, Boeing provided Canada with cost and capability data for its Advanced F/A-18 Super Hornet, suggesting that a fleet of 65 aircraft would cost $1.7 billion less than a fleet of F-35s. The Advanced Super Hornet builds upon the existing Super Hornet, which is an improvement of the current CF-18 Hornet. The U.S. Navy buys Super Hornets for $52 million per aircraft, while the advanced version would add $6–$10 million per aircraft, depending on options selected.[131]
In early 2011, Bulgaria was considering the F/A-18 Super Hornet, among other aircraft, as a replacement for its MiG-21 fleet.[132]
Boeing offered the Super Hornet to the Swiss Air Force as a replacement for Swiss F-5E Tigers, then withdrew from the competition.[133]
On 12 March 2014, Belgian newspaper
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External links
Donald, David. "Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet", Warplanes of the Fleet. London: AIRtime Publishing Inc, 2004. ISBN 978-1-88058-889-5.
Elward, Brad. Boeing F/A-18 Hornet (WarbirdTech, Vol. 31). North Branch, Minnesota: Specialty Press, 2001. ISBN 978-1-58007-041-6.
Elward, Brad. The Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet & EA-18G Growler: A Developmental and Operational History. Atglen, Pennsylvania: Schiffer Publishing, Ltd. 2013. ISBN 978-0-76434-041-3.
Holmes, Tony. US Navy Hornet Units of Operation Iraqi Freedom. London: Osprey Publishing, 2004. ISBN 978-1-84176-801-4.
Jenkins, Dennis R. F/A-18 Hornet: A Navy Success Story. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2000. ISBN 978-0-07134-696-2.
Winchester, Jim. The Encyclopedia of Modern Aircraft. San Diego: Thunder Bay Press, 2006. ISBN 978-1-59223-628-2.
^ U.S. Navy (21 April 2011). "Navy celebrates 500th Super Hornet, Growler delivery". defpro.com. Archived from the original on 31 March 2012. Retrieved 25 July 2011.
^ "Analysis of the Fiscal Year 2012 Pentagon Spending Request." costofwar.com. Retrieved: 22 September 2011.
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^ a b
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^ Polskie F-35 od 2021? (Polish)
^ Poland to buy 64 fifth-generation fighters
^ Boeing zainteresowany polskim rynkiem. F-18 zamiast F-35
^ Poland to procure 64 multi-role jet fighter
^ Cameron, Doug, and Robert Wall, Fighter jet may vanish from Boeing's horizon, Wall Street Journal, September 19, 2014, p.B1 and B5
^ Buliavac, Joseph M. "The aircrew of an F/A-18F Super Hornet, assigned to the "Fighting Redcocks" of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 22, wait to launch from Catapult 3 during night flight operations." navy.mil, 2 December 2007. Retrieved: 16 August 2010.
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^ "F/A-18E/F Super Hornet." Fas.org. Retrieved: 9 September 2011.
^ "F/A-18F Super Hornet" Fighterworld. Retrieved: 20 February 2013
^ "... the Pentagon would get $495 million to buy nine Boeing Co. F/A-18E/F fighters..." The average was 80.4 million in 2010.[4]
^ "It (Super Hornet) has only 36 percent of the F-14's payload/range capability."
List of fighter aircraft
List of active United States military aircraft
List of United States military aerial refueling aircraft
Related lists
Dassault Rafale
Eurofighter Typhoon
Grumman F-14 Tomcat
McDonnell Douglas F-15E Strike Eagle
Mikoyan MiG-29K
Saab JAS 39 Gripen (Gripen NG)
Sukhoi Su-33
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet
Boeing EA-18G Growler
Related development
See also
Jane's Combat Simulations released a simulator based on the F/A-18E Super Hornet titled "Jane's F/A-18" in 2000. The Super Hornet is the main carrier jet in the film Behind Enemy Lines.
Data from U.S. Navy fact file,[15] others[143][144]
Each United States Navy squadron has a standard unit establishment of 10 or 12 aircraft.
Boeing is addressing the realistic possibility that the Super Hornet production line will close in 2017. Because orders for the F-15 have also dwindled, Boeing is readying plans to close its St. Louis factory that makes both airplanes. Chris Chadwick, president of Boeing Defense, Space and Security, told the Wall Street Journal that, although "we're still solidly behind them," the company may decide by April 2015 whether to shut down both assembly lines and close the factory.[139]
Poland is planning to purchase 64 multirole combat aircraft from 2021 as part of that country's modernization plans. The new fighters will replace the Polish Air Force's fleet of Sukhoi Su-22M4 ground attack aircraft and Mikoyan MiG-29 fighter aircraft. The planned open tender procedure could include the F-35 Lightning II, JAS 39 Gripen E/F, the newest variants of Eurofighter Typhoon and Dassault Rafale, and Boeing's F/A-18E/F Advanced Super Hornet.[135][136][137][138]
United States Marine Corps, United States Air Force, United States Navy, Stealth aircraft, Royal Air Force
United States Coast Guard, War of 1812, American Civil War, United States Army, United States Marine Corps
Royal Air Force, United States Navy, United States Air Force, United States Marine Corps, Hellenic Air Force
Australian Defence Force, Royal Air Force, Korean War, Vietnam War, Airfield Defence Guards
Saudi Arabia, Royal Air Force, German Air Force, United Kingdom, Selex ES
Northrop F-89 Scorpion, United States Navy, United States Marine Corps, Royal Australian Air Force, McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II
United States Navy, Carrier Strike Group, U.S. Third Fleet, Naval Air Station North Island, War in Afghanistan (2001–present)
India, Indian Air Force, Eurofighter Typhoon, Indian rupee, Sweden
Virginia, Soviet Union, Rover, United States Navy, Iran–Iraq War
Iraq, Syrian Civil War, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant, Syria, France


text:
Homer Rainey Hall is an unassuming administrative building in the middle of UT's Austin Campus. It largely contains offices for professors in the school's language department, but today it contains a mystery.
Jared is a grad student with an office on the second floor of the building, directly next to a bathroom. This morning, he was using the men's room, as men tend to do, and noticed a piece of paper on the ground just a few feet from the urinal.
"I usually don't pick things up off of lavatory floors," he assures us, but curiosity got the best of him. He was hoping it was "a juicy break-up letter" or even a suicide note, but it was something much, much better.
I'm happy you recognized me on campus, haha.
Take Care and Enjoy Life! \m/ Hook Em
Kevin Durant
OKC Thunder
UT Longhorns
The signature sure looks like Kevin Durant's. But how on earth did it end up in a lightly-trafficked restroom in a building mostly devoid of classrooms? Surely it must have been dropped there recently—Jared says the restrooms are cleaned daily, and a Kevin Durant autograph wouldn't remain unpocketed for long. But Durant and the Thunder had a home game last night, and another tonight, and there are no mentions on Twitter or otherwise of Durant visiting UT campus today.
Jared says he's more than happy to return Durant's note to (presumably) the UT student who dropped it. So if you met Kevin Durant today, and he wrote you a nice little letter, and you no longer have possession of that letter, give us a holler. We'll try and reunite you with your treasure.

subset: commoncrawl


text:
Google quickly ushered its Google Plus Hangouts API out of preview mode, meaning apps built on the service can now be launched. Facebook also made changes to its API, bringing location to photo and status objects. Plus: redefining TV Guide via API, an OpenSocial platform and 17 new APIs.
Google Plus Now Ready to Hang Out
Google may have hit on something more interesting than the flagship Google Plus API. The company announced that the Hangouts API is leaving preview mode, where developers were essentially sandboxed.
Here's how the post describes the API:
Hangout apps are regular web apps, running in a big window inside the Hangout UI. In addition to using shared-state APIs to give users real-time interactivity, you also have access to built-in Hangout features, such as:
- Initiate a group video chat with up to 10 people
- Control hangout microphones, cameras, speakers and volume levels
- Add sound effects and attach image overlays to faces
- Set UI elements such as the video feed, chat pane, and notifications
Have you built something with Google Plus Hangouts? Now that it can be seen publicly, why not add it as a mashup?
Facebook Adds Places to Photos, Statuses
While users have been able to attach locations to many Facebook objects for some time, now the company it making those places available via the Facebook Graph API for photos and statuses.
The announcement post has some useful example code.
API News You Shouldn't Miss
- Breaking the Grid -- Jinni Redefines the TV Guide With Enhanced API
- CloudSpokes Coding Challenge - Build an EC2 Spot Instance Tool
- Name Similarity API Released
- Apache Rave: A new web and social mashup engine based on OpenSocial
- Sharing Personalized Dashboards using the Analytics API
- Introducing Tumblr's New API
17 New APIs
Today we had 17 new APIs added to our API directory including a project management, sales, and crm platform, cloud-based voice communication service, French banking service, website and online resource monitoring service, charity and not-for-profit payment service, user profile data service, term recognition and tagging service, water quality data service, mobile application backend service and travel search service. Below is more details on each of these new APIs.
AffinityLive API: AffinityLive is an online project management and client relationship management platform. AffinityLive can be used to manage sales, track projects, and keep track of client relationships.
The AffinityLive API allows developers to access and integrate the functionality of AffinityLive with other applications and to create new applications. Some example API methods include managing company information, creating and managing customer data, and tracking and managing issues.
Alianza API: The service provides a hosted broadband platform for voice communication, especially voice-over-IP (VoIP). Cloud-based services are delivered via shared network infrastructure to distribute capital costs for hardware and network resources among users which reduces risk of VoIP implementation.
API methods support creation, updating, and deletion of user accounts to control access to the platform. Methods also handle calls placed by users, phone numbers used including extensions, and devices involved. The API allows for control by geographic area and policy, such as user account permissions and 911 access.
AnnotQTL API: AnnotQTL is a tool designed to gather the functional annotations of genes for specific chromosomal regions. It provides the locations of genes in a specific region using NCBI and Ensembl data. Then, it adds the functional annotations from other databases such as Gene Ontology, Mammalian Phenotype, HGNC, PubMed, etc. The AnnotQTL API makes these functions available to users via SOAP calls.
AXA Banque API: AXA Banque is a French bank that offers its customers banking services, such as checking and saving accounts.
The AXA Banque API allows developers to access and integrate the data from AXA Banque with other applications and to create new applications. Some example API methods include retrieving customer information, retrieving account information, and returning transaction details.
Binary Canary API: The service monitors specified online resources, including websites, email addresses, and domain names, and generates messages to specified user contacts if problems are found. It is intended to provide rapid detection of downtime or slow system response, with immediate alerts to trigger corrective action. Alert events and notification contact data are configured for the user account, then monitoring checks are conducted automatically.
API methods support account creation and configuration and creation of monitors for basic server ping, HTTP response, and FTP uptime. Methods also allow updating and deleting existing monitors, retrieving contact settings for a monitor, and reporting on event detection history.
Click&Pledge API: The service interacts with the Trio payment and administrative engine to process pledges and donations to charities and other not-for-profit organizations. The system is compliant with PCI standards and enables payment across web connections and from mobile devices for simple fundraising, membership, and donation transactions.
API methods support creation and submission of payment requests, payment receipt and processing, and related messaging to donors and partner systems. Methods also support interaction via web-form submissions. Reporting functions return cumulative payments across an account, simplified single-factor "thermometer" results, and social network interactions.
Coderwall Profile API: Coderwall is a community based social network created with the purpose of allowing users to create light-weight profiles that display achievements in coding and development. Users gain publicly displayed badges, such as the T-Rex achievement for "having at least one original repo where C is the dominant language" or the Octopusy achievement for "having a repo followed by a member of the GitHub team". Users can also join and create company teams to compete for the highest score.
The Coderwall Profile API simply exposes a JSON representation of every profile that can be retrieved via HTTP. When a valid username is included within the GET request, a response consisting of profile information and a list of achievements will be returned in either JSON or JSONP.
CSA/NBII Biocomplexity Thesaurus API: The CSA/NBII Biocomplexity Thesaurus Web Service allows users to query the Thesaurus for matching and relating terms using a variety of search operators. The Biocomplexity Thesaurus is a merger of the CERES/NBII Thesaurus and the CSA Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries, Life Sciences, Pollution, Sociological, and Ecotourism thesauri.
Googe Refine ReconciliationService API: The service returns potential matches within a dataset for a specified name or label text. The match may be approximate so it helps to link ambiguous text strings to well-defined records or data entities. The service, based on the Freebase relevance service, functions as part of the Google Refine platform for data analysis and clean-up.
API methods support submission of a query term, with limits on the number of results returned, the types of entities included in the result set, and technical details. Returned data include records from a dataset loosely matched to the submitted query string.
Google Street View Image API: Google's Street View Image API lets users retrieve Street View panorama or thumbnail images with parameterized HTTP requests. This web service allows these images to be embedded into a web page, without the use of JavaScript.
The viewport size, direction, location, pitch, and field of view (fov) can all be manipulated by parameters included in the HTTP request. Since the size of the image and the fov can be specified, users can effectively control the zoom level of the image. Finally, there is a parameter that can specify the request is coming from a device with location sensor information, enabling the service to be integrated with, for example, GPS enabled mobile phones.
HMMER API: HMMER is an online service that is used to search sequence databases for homologs of protein sequences. Users can choose from seven sequence databases to search against. HMMER can also perform protein sequence alignments. Its methods use probabilistic models called Profile Hidden Markov Models. The REST-based HMMER API makes these functions available programmatically to users.
NBIC Peregrine API: Peregrine is an indexing engine, a piece of software that can be used to recognize concepts in human-readable text based on a database of known terms. It can recognize multi-word terms as well as single-word terms. If terms can represent multiple concepts, Peregrine will attempt to disambiguate them. Peregrine's functions are available as a REST-based API.
NWQMC Water Quality Portal API: The National Water Quality Monitoring Council (NWQMC) provides the Water Quality Portal web service to provide users with programmatic access to the large quantities of water quality data in various national databases.
Queries are constructed and submitted through the addition of REST-like parameters to one of two base URL's. Location can be searched by latitude and longitude with radius, coordinate boxing, state, county, and country. Specific site ID's can be used to target an individual station, and searches can be made by other criteria such as site type, organization, and date.
Pin Drop API: Pin Drop is a web and mobile application that allows users to "drop pins" on maps of places they want to remember. Pins can be private to the user only or users can share some of their pins with others. Pins can be organized by categories and tags, and Pin Drop also allows for importing data from other geolocation applications, such as Foursquare.
The Pin Drop API allows developers to access and integrate the functionality and data of Pin Drop with other applications and to create new applications. Some example API methods include managing user information, managing and retrieving pins, and adding images to pins.
QuickBlox API: QuickBlox is a cloud-hosted backend solution service for mobile applications. QuickBlox allows users to integrate their various functionalities, such as location and chat, into mobile applications.
The QuickBlox API allows developers to access and integrate the functionality of QuickBlox with other applications and to create new applications. Some example API methods include managing users, creating and managing content, and retrieving location information.
QUOTE.fm API: QUOTE.fm allows people to recommend articles, books, and videos through the sharing of user-chosen quotes from the source being recommended. The social aspect of QUOTE includes the ability to share quotes with anyone - be it an old friend or someone with the same interests as you. Users can also follow people and sites, and engage in community discussions revolving around quotes posted by other users.
The QUOTE API exposes GET methods for programmatically interacting with the service. Users can get recommendations by id, article, or user. Other GET operations can be made on pages, users, articles, and categories. This is a free API that operates over REST and returns data in JSON. Please note that this is a German based start-up, so some of their pages require translation.
Wego API: Wego.com is a travel search engine where users can look for discounts on hotels, flights, vacation packages, activities and more. Wego compares and displays picing and availability from leading travel sites worldwide all in real-time. Wego offers affiliate partnerships to interested parties and the use of their API to access site data. Developers should contact the provider at email@example.com. Public documentation is not available.


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Model Letter of Person Alleged of Misconduct
Sample Letter: Notice to Person Alleged to Engage in Misconduct
Following is a sample memo from the Club President to the person alleged to have engaged in misconduct, when it has been determined that resolution of the complaint to the satisfaction of the complainant is either not possible or inappropriate. Insert appropriate information as noted and send with a copy of the Club policy. A copy should be given to the Athlete Welfare Advocate and the complainant.
DATE: [Insert date]
TO: [Insert name of person alleged to have engaged in misconduct]
FROM: [Insert name of club president], Club President
Please be advised that the Club has received a formal complaint alleging that you have violated the Club conduct policy (see attached). It has been reported that you may have violated Section [insert number of paragraph in the policy that describes the violation]. Specifically, the following conduct was reported:
[insert the information contained in Part II of the complaint form]
The Club complaint process will be followed in dealing with this report (see Section 13 of the attached policy), including the possible imposition of sanctions.
[Insert name of Fact Finder] has been appointed to be the Fact Finder for this case. [He/She] will contact you shortly to provide you with the opportunity to (1) respond to this report, (2) make a full statement in a hearing regarding the facts of this situation, and (3) identify any individuals who may have directly witnessed this situation and who should be interviewed by the Fact Finder.
Please be informed that you are not permitted to contact the complainant or suspected complainant or any witness or other Club member concerning this situation. The complainant has been informed of this same obligation. Any repeat of the alleged conduct or retaliation against the complainant or suspected complainant or team members shall not be tolerated, with immediate termination of employment and/or Club affiliation imposed if such conduct or retaliation does occur.
The person making this complaint has also be asked to indicate any witnesses to the situation who should be interviewed.
[If the situation is so serious as to require suspension of the individual until the complaint has been resolved, add the following paragraph.]
This report is sufficiently serious for the Club to have decided that it is in the best interest of the Club for your association with the Club to be suspended pending the outcome of the decision of the Ethics Panel concerning this matter. Please understand that this suspension in no way presumes that the complaint is accurate.
Thank you for your attention to this notice and these requests.


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Are you ready? Because here is my oldest Un-photographed Finished Object, photographed, finally!:
It is the Cindy swimsuit from BurdaStyle, a two piece bather with ruched sweet-heart halter neck top and separate bikini bottoms with ruffle. The ruching is very flattering across the tum tum and the ruffle attached to the bikini bottoms gives that little bit of extra coverage for your confidence.
I downloaded this pattern for free back in the good old days when new patterns were released each Monday and we weren't bombarded with spam and advertisements…ahh, those were the days…now it's a $3.50 download which I guess isn't a bad price for a cute bathing suit.
This was my first ever attempt at making a swimsuit. I was living in Perth at the time (I am guessing I made this in early 2009) and because I was quite proud of my efforts I intended to photograph it at the beach immediately…but it just never happened.
When In-the-mood-for-a-swim Hubby suggested a day trip to the beach at QEII Park on Wellington Anniversary I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to share it with you all while knocking one of my Re-Sew-lutions on the head at the same time!
Please be appreciative of my bravery, this is the least amount of clothing I have ever been photographed in!
It is not really a swimming swimsuit, more of a lie-under-the-beach-umbrella-looking-pretty kind of swimsuit.
I am still very proud of this make but I admit it is not 100% perfect.
Things I would do differently if I made this swimsuit again:
More length to the bodice, maybe as much a 5cm! It rides up, probably a cause of the cute and flattering ruching, but I have a long torso and generally prefer a bit more length in my tops so I normally add that into the bodice of most Burda/BurdaStyle patterns.
Add in some bust support. This pattern isn't great for a C/ D-on-a-good-day bust. I think the low back doesn't help so perhaps a strap across the upper back like the Alison pattern and building in some bra cups would help it a lot.
Reduce the width of the crotch in the bikini bottoms. It is wiiiiiiiiide and bunches/folds uncomfortably at each side.
Add a bit more width at the back of the bikini bottoms for better bum coverage. It is a tad skimpy and I was constantly plucking them out of you-know-where…
Use my elasticator foot on my overlocker for a more rtw looking finish. The zig-zag is ok, it looks fine in fact, it's strong, stretchy and tidy. When I decided to make this swimsuit I had already bought my overlocker but not very long before hand. It came with extra feet including an elasticator foot that feeds the elastic at a constant controlled stretch while overlocking it in place. It's very cool and I have played with it quite a bit since but at the time it was just a bit too much to take in all at once: First swimsuit, new overlocker, tensions!, elasticator foot, etc…
Remember not to use a straight stitch! I stitched the long seam on the halter strap with a straight stitch, I have no idea why I did that, I knew better back then too. So it does't really stretch on that edge and digs into my neck rather than stretching, it's a bit uncomfortable but not a big deal.
Ok, I think you'll agree that's enough of my legs for one day! 😉


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Interview- Grin and Bear it: The Sixers bring intimate energy to town
Since forming in early 2000, Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers have suffered a little emotional wear-and-tear: marriage, raising children, and all the accompanying tribulations have colored their consciousness, according to Kellogg, and feature prominently in the direction their music now takes. A little older, perhaps a little wiser, the Sixers have found an intimate energy that comes, Kellogg says, from just "being real." Their latest album, The Bear, captures the everyday-ness of a life in flux, adds a jolt of energy, and rocks on without looking back. "Sometimes you get the bear," Kellogg says, "and sometimes the bear gets you."
The Hook: Let's start simply. Why are you a musician in the first place?
Stephen Kellogg: Music is far and away the funnest job that I worked during and after college– this is me getting drunk, this is my kind of a good time. The Sixers view our job how most people view their jobs: try to do the best you can with it and make enough to live the life you want to live.
The Hook: How would you sum up The Bear?
SK: The inspiration for The Bear comes in two parts: first, we really wanted to make a record where we didn't rush through the studio process– we wanted to get really inspired performances on the songs, performances where our hearts were really in it.
The Hook: And the second part?
SK: We wanted a record to reflect life. We're in this middle place where we still look to our parents, we're still somebody's kids– but I have two daughters, I'm somebody's dad now. It's an interesting place to be in, where looking forward to middle age doesn't seem so old now.
The Hook: What's the purpose of your online behind-the-scenes mini-series?
SK: The one thing about playing music is trying to really be yourself so people have this window into you being really honest about how you feel. Sometimes, I'm depressed or frustrated or embarrassed or goofy– things not considered "cool." So when you show people these little videos, it's one way of checking yourself, making sure you're being straight with listeners and fans and saying, look this is where we are coming from and if that resonates with you, great, but if you're disappointed that we're sitting at the table in our boxers, we're not the right band for you.
Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers perform at Fry's Spring Beach Club on 10/8. The Sometime Favorites and Dawn Landes open. The show starts at 8:00 pm and tickets are $14 at the door.


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Hello Friends,
I am about to make Intrusion Detection System. In that I am making Neural Network for the purpose of dynamic rule generation.
So from where should I begin.
I want to trace user behaviour. So please provide me your help regarding the same. Also how should i trained my neural network.
If you have any input please provide me ..
Thank you in advance.