The Boeing EA-18G Growler: 5 Things You Need To Know
A quick dive into the fighter and its 15-year history.
simpleflying.comwas seen at 2004 production start, began production in 2004; first flight occurred in August 2006; IOC with the Navy around 2009 timeframe; deployment began in 2010 year; unit cost about $67 million. is armed with AGM-88 HARM missiles for SEAD, using state-of-the-art jamming pods and AESA-related systems to suppress defenses and shield allied forces. Equipped for speeds up to Mach 1.8 and flies at altitudes up to about 50,000 feet, with a typical combat range near 1,275 miles without external fuel. It remains a twin-engine, carrier-based electronic warfare asset developed from the F/A-18F Super Hornet, designed to jam radar and communications while escorting strike packages. The Growler has an emphasis on defense suppression to support mission success. Built to jam, protect, and project electronic attack against integrated air defenses. Price tag cited around $67 million, with deployment starting a decade ago. It integrates AES-related systems to enhance battlefield communications suppression. Operational role centers on suppression of enemy air defenses while protecting allied strike packages.