Estimated Savings of $395+ Million Over $4 Billion Contract
The US Navy (USN) has awarded Boeing a three-year contract for 78 F/A-18 Block III SUPER HORNETs, the company announced on 20 March. The aircraft will play a vital role in the USN’s fleet modernisation efforts.
The Block III configuration adds capability upgrades that include an enhanced network capability, longer range, reduced radar signature, an advanced cockpit system and an enhanced communication system. Boeing will begin converting existing Block II aircraft to Block III early in the next decade. The fighter’s life also will be extended from 6,000 to 10,000 hours.
This new multi-year contract benefits the USN and Boeing by allowing both to better schedule future production. USN officials estimate this multi-year model saves a minimum of $395 million on this contract, valued at approximately $4 billion, according to Boeing.
“This multiyear contract will provide significant savings for taxpayers and the US Navy while providing the capacity it needs to help improve readiness,” commented Boeing’s Vice President of F/A-18 and EA-18G programmes, Dan Gillian. “A multiyear contract helps the F/A-18 team seek out suppliers with a guaranteed three years of production, instead of negotiating year to year. It helps both sides with planning, and we applaud the US Navy on taking the appropriate steps needed to help solve its readiness challenges.”