The Super Hornet Is One of the Most Heavily Armed US Navy Aircraft

"The F/A-18E/F Super Hornet has made a name for itself as a powerhouse in the U.S. Navy since its introduction in 1999. Not to be confused with the earlier model, the original F/A-18 Hornet, the Super Hornet features a larger airframe, increased payload capacity, and advanced avionics. However, what truly sets the Super Hornet apart from the competition is its ability to carry a variety of missiles and ordnance, making it one of the most heavily armed aircraft in the Navy's arsenal."

"For some quick specs on the jet, it has a maximum takeoff weight of 66,000 pounds and can carry over 17,000 pounds of ordnance. The frame is outfitted to handle air-to-air missiles, joint direct attack munitions (drop/guided bombs), or even anti-ship missiles. Each of these jets also come standard with a 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon. Outside of the E/F variants of the Super Hornet, another variation was developed, the EA-18G Growler, which specializes in electronic warfare."

"The Super Hornet is powered by two General Electric F414 engines and can hit speeds over Mach 1.5. It has a combat range of roughly 1,200 miles when factoring in extended range via external fuel tanks. Since its introduction in 1999, the Super Hornet has been pivotal in a number of engagements and U.S. Navy operations. It proved effective in the Middle East in carrying out air strikes throughout the U.S. Global War on Terrorism."

The F/A-18E/F Super Hornet is a larger, upgraded evolution of the original Hornet, featuring a bigger airframe, higher payload capacity, and modern avionics. The aircraft can carry over 17,000 pounds of ordnance and a maximum takeoff weight around 66,000 pounds. The Super Hornet is equipped to field air-to-air missiles, joint direct attack munitions, anti-ship missiles, and a standard 20mm M61 Vulcan cannon. The EA-18G Growler is a variant optimized for electronic warfare while retaining missile and ordnance capability. Twin General Electric F414 engines enable speeds above Mach 1.5 and a combat range near 1,200 miles with external tanks. The platform has seen operational use in Middle East strikes and numerous U.S. Navy missions.

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