5 Facts About US Navy EA-18G Growler
The US Navy’s EA-18G Growler is a specialized electronic warfare aircraft that plays a critical role in supporting the nation’s military operations. Here are five key facts about this remarkable aircraft:
Fact #1: The EA-18G Growler is a Variant of the F/A-18F Super Hornet
The EA-18G Growler is based on the F/A-18F Super Hornet airframe, but it has been extensively modified to accommodate its electronic warfare role. The Growler’s primary mission is to detect, identify, and disrupt enemy radar and communication systems, giving the US military a significant tactical advantage on the battlefield.
Fact #2: Advanced Electronic Warfare Capabilities
The EA-18G Growler is equipped with the latest electronic warfare technology, including the ALQ-218(V)2 receiver and the ALQ-99 tactical jamming system. These systems enable the Growler to detect and disrupt a wide range of enemy radar and communication systems, from radar-guided surface-to-air missiles to command and control networks.
💡 Note: The ALQ-99 system is so powerful that it can jam enemy radar systems from over 100 miles away.
Fact #3: Crew and Operations
The EA-18G Growler has a crew of two: a pilot and an electronic warfare officer (EWO). The EWO is responsible for operating the aircraft’s electronic warfare systems, using their expertise to identify and target enemy radar and communication systems. Growler crews undergo extensive training to prepare for their complex and demanding mission.
Fact #4: Aircraft Upgrades and Modernization
The US Navy has invested heavily in upgrading and modernizing the EA-18G Growler fleet, with new aircraft and systems being introduced regularly. The latest upgrade, the Increment 2 (Inc 2) upgrade, provides significant improvements in electronic warfare capability, including advanced radar detection and jamming capabilities.
| Upgrade | Description |
|---|---|
| Inc 1 | Initial production configuration, introduced in 2009 |
| Inc 2 | Major upgrade, introduced in 2013, featuring advanced radar detection and jamming capabilities |
| Inc 3 | Future upgrade, currently in development, expected to provide even more advanced electronic warfare capabilities |
Fact #5: Operational Deployment
The EA-18G Growler has seen extensive operational deployment, supporting a range of military operations around the world. Growlers have been deployed to the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, providing critical electronic warfare support to US and coalition forces.
In conclusion, the EA-18G Growler is a highly advanced and specialized aircraft that plays a vital role in supporting US military operations. Its advanced electronic warfare capabilities, coupled with its highly trained crew, make it an invaluable asset on the battlefield.
What is the primary mission of the EA-18G Growler?
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The primary mission of the EA-18G Growler is to detect, identify, and disrupt enemy radar and communication systems.
How many crew members does the EA-18G Growler have?
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The EA-18G Growler has a crew of two: a pilot and an electronic warfare officer (EWO).
What is the ALQ-99 system used for?
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The ALQ-99 system is a tactical jamming system used to disrupt enemy radar and communication systems.
Related Terms:
- Boeing
- Boeing F A 18E F Super Hornet
- EA 6B Prowler
- Beechcraft T 6 Texan II
- Eurofighter Typhoon
