BLUF
The Growler aircraft shares 90% commonality with the F/A-18 Super Hornet, which it can support to enhance capability.Summary
Harrison Kass writing in 19FortyFive, makes the following points:
- Is a very effective force multiplier*.
- Wing fences and aileron “tripper strips” have been added.
- The Super Hornet’s cannon has been removed to house more electronic attack equipment.
- The wingtips (and if needed the nine weapons pylons) also house electronic warfare equipment.
- The US Navy has 172 Growlers.
* force multiplier (US DoD Definition)...A capability that, when added to and employed by a combat force, significantly increases the combat potential of that force and thus enhances the probability of successful mission accomplishment. (JP 3-05.1) (US DoD)
References
Recent Runway Posts related to this topic:
- Why The F-15I “Ra’am” Fighter Is So Crucial For Israel- The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
- The Block 70 F-16 Fighting Falcon Looks Like A Killer- The Runway (airforce.gov.au)
References from the Web:
- FEB 2023 Australia to upgrade Growler electronic warfare planes-Asia-Pacific Defence Reporter
- MAR 2023 Attrition replacement Growler delivered to RAAF- Australian Defence Business Review