The United States Navy has reached a historic milestone: its fleet of F/A-18 Hornet, Super Hornet, and EA-18G Growler fighters has surpassed 12 million cumulative flight hours since the 1980s.
The announcement, made on August 1, 2025, reinforces the reputation of these aircraft as pillars of modern naval aviation, serving as the backbone of the Navy and Marine Corps for more than four decades. To put this achievement into perspective, the total equals 1,370 years of continuous flight, a testament to the fleet’s durability and operational efficiency.
Currently, the Navy operates about 550 Super Hornets and 150 Growlers, while the Marine Corps still uses 180 older models from the “Legacy” series. Captain Michael Burks, responsible for the program, highlighted that these aircraft have participated in all major US conflicts in recent decades, constantly evolving to face new threats.
The milestone coincides with the 30th anniversary of the Super Hornet’s first flight (1995) and the 250th anniversary of the Navy and Marine Corps, founded in 1775.
The fleet continues to be modernized, with the introduction of the Block III variant of the Super Hornet, which brings advancements such as a digital cockpit, increased range, and enhanced electronic warfare systems. Meanwhile, the EA-18G Growlers, specialized in suppressing air defenses, will also receive upgrades to maintain their technological superiority.
With Australia as the only international operator, the Growlers remain an exclusive asset of the Western alliance, ensuring dominance in modern combat scenarios.
Source: The Aviationist | Photo: X @USNavy | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
