The Blue Angels fleet will be upgraded to the F/A 18 “Super Hornet” within the next two years, according to a Department of Defense contract. The Boeing Company’s St. Louis facility has been awarded $17 million for retrofit kits to turn nine F/A-18E and two F/A-18F fighter jets into the newest Blue Angel demonstrator aircraft. The work will take place in St. Louis and is expected to be completed in December of 2021. This upgrade will be the ninth change in aircraft type for the demonstrators since 1946.
Blue Angels to Receive “Super Hornet” Upgrade
Key Takeaways:
- The Blue Angels fleet will upgrade to the F/A-18 "Super Hornet" within the next two years, marking the ninth aircraft change since 1946.
- Boeing received a $17 million contract to retrofit eleven F/A-18E/F jets into demonstrator aircraft, with work expected to be completed by December 2021.
- The Super Hornet is larger with a greater range, and the conversion involves specific modifications like removing the nose cannon and adding a smoke-oil tank, while retaining the ability to return to combat duty within 72 hours.
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