Intro
Discover the cutting-edge advancements in the F/A-18 Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade, featuring enhanced sensor capabilities, advanced avionics, and improved network-centric warfare. Learn about the top 5 features, including helmet-mounted displays, advanced targeting systems, and next-gen radar, that make this upgrade a game-changer in military aviation.
The Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is a twin-engine, multirole fighter jet that has been a cornerstone of the United States Navy's air power since the early 2000s. Over the years, the aircraft has undergone several upgrades to maintain its relevance and effectiveness in the face of emerging threats. One of the most significant upgrades to the Super Hornet is the Block 3 upgrade, which brings a host of new features and capabilities to the aircraft. Here, we will explore the top 5 features of the Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade.
Advanced Cockpit System
The Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade features an advanced cockpit system, designed to provide pilots with enhanced situational awareness and improved combat effectiveness. The new cockpit system includes a large-area display (LAD) that provides a single, integrated display of critical flight and combat information. The LAD replaces the traditional head-up display (HUD) and allows pilots to customize their display to suit their needs. Additionally, the cockpit system includes a new center pedestal and a tactical information display.
Enhanced Avionics and Computing
The Block 3 upgrade also brings significant enhancements to the Super Hornet's avionics and computing systems. The new aircraft features a advanced mission computer, which provides increased processing power and memory. This allows for the integration of new sensors and systems, such as the advanced targeting forward-looking infrared (ATFLIR) sensor. The new avionics system also includes a network-centric architecture, which enables the Super Hornet to communicate with other aircraft and ground stations in real-time.
Conformal Fuel Tanks
One of the most significant features of the Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade is the addition of conformal fuel tanks (CFTs). The CFTs are two large fuel tanks that are mounted along the sides of the fuselage, providing an additional 3,000 pounds of fuel. This increased fuel capacity allows the Super Hornet to remain on station for longer periods of time, increasing its combat effectiveness and reducing the need for refueling.
Advanced Radar and Sensors
The Block 3 upgrade also features advanced radar and sensors, including the advanced electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. The AESA radar provides improved air-to-air and air-to-ground capabilities, including enhanced detection and tracking of targets. Additionally, the Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade includes the advanced targeting forward-looking infrared (ATFLIR) sensor, which provides improved targeting capabilities in all weather conditions.
Increased Network Centricity
Finally, the Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade features increased network centricity, allowing the aircraft to communicate with other aircraft and ground stations in real-time. This is achieved through the integration of advanced communication systems, including the tactical targeting network technology (TTNT) and the satellite communications (SATCOM) system. This increased network centricity enables the Super Hornet to participate in advanced network-centric warfare operations, increasing its combat effectiveness and situational awareness.
Improved Maintenance and Sustainment
In addition to the new features and capabilities, the Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade also brings significant improvements to maintenance and sustainment. The new aircraft features a number of design changes and upgrades that reduce maintenance requirements and increase reliability. Additionally, the Block 3 upgrade includes a new maintenance and sustainment strategy, which is designed to reduce costs and improve availability.
In conclusion, the Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade brings a host of new features and capabilities to the aircraft, including advanced avionics and computing, conformal fuel tanks, advanced radar and sensors, and increased network centricity. These upgrades significantly improve the combat effectiveness and situational awareness of the Super Hornet, making it an even more formidable force on the battlefield.
Gallery of Super Hornet Block 3 Upgrade
Super Hornet Block 3 Upgrade Image Gallery
FAQs
What is the Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade?
+The Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade is a significant upgrade to the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, featuring advanced avionics and computing, conformal fuel tanks, advanced radar and sensors, and increased network centricity.
What are the benefits of the Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade?
+The Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade brings significant improvements to the aircraft's combat effectiveness, situational awareness, and maintenance and sustainment. It also enables the aircraft to participate in advanced network-centric warfare operations.
When will the Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade be available?
+The Super Hornet Block 3 upgrade is currently being integrated into the fleet, with the first aircraft expected to be delivered in the near future.