F/A-18E Super Hornet: The Hornet Queen!

The Line of Contact update brings the American F/A-18E Super Hornet carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft, one of the best aircraft in its class in the world, to the game!

Vehicle History

The F/A-18E Super Hornet carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft was developed as a major upgrade of the F/A-18C Hornet. A full-scale development contract was signed in December 1992, and the prototype first flew in November 1995. Despite its external resemblance to its predecessor, it was essentially a new aircraft, with a 90% redesigned airframe, featuring an increased proportion of composite materials and new aerodynamic solutions. The increased dimensions allowed for a third more fuel capacity in the internal tanks and the addition of weapons hardpoints, while maintaining flight performance thanks to more powerful F414-GE-400 engines and an improved control system.

To save time and money during the initial development phase, nearly 90% of the new aircraft’s avionics were borrowed from the F/A-18C. However, with the start of serial deliveries in November 1999, a program of consistent upgrades began. Block I, which began in 2001, installed new open-architecture onboard computers, an improved electronic warfare suite, modern displays, and the Joint Helmet-Mounted Sighting System (JHMCS). The next and most significant step was the Block II upgrade program, which began in 2005. Its key element was the installation of a new Raytheon AN/APG-79 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, the first units of which were delivered to the aircraft in 2007. This upgrade, along with modernization of the entire avionics suite and cockpit, dramatically increased the Super Hornet’s combat capabilities, turning it into one of the most technologically advanced combat aircraft in the modern era.

Introducing the F/A-18E Super Hornet!

Today we’re taking a look at one of the main stars of the Line of Contact major update! Meet the magnificent F/A-18E Super Hornet, the US Navy’s most modern and advanced carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft. Let’s take a look at this jet aircraft, which is sure to sting enemy opponents!

Developer Note: We would like to draw attention to the fact that the F/A-18E Super Hornet and other jets for USA, USSR, China and Sweden that are coming in Line of Contact means there are four vehicles at rank VIII vertically for these nations, which is something we said we would not do. This will only be temporary as we would like to confirm that in early 2026 we’ll be introducing rank IX for aircraft, which aims to solve this problem by moving some rank VIII aircraft to rank IX along with some economic changes. However, until then, you can still use aircraft at rank VII to effectively research the new top-tier jets released in the Line of Contact major update. Stay tuned for more news coming in the next few months!

Despite having a one-letter name difference from its predecessor, the F/A-18C, the new Super Hornet is in many ways a completely new aircraft. Let’s take a look at the key differences and characteristics. First off, the Super Hornet has a new AN/APG-79 active phased array radar, providing you with real-time target information. The wing area has been increased, and the number of weapon hardpoints has increased to 11. When loaded for beyond-visual-range combat, the Super Hornet can now carry up to 12 AIM-120B or C-5 ARH missiles, plus an external fuel tank under the fuselage and a pair of AIM-9L or M Sidewinders on the wingtips!

The F/A-18E Super Hornet retains (and improves!) the exceptional anti-ground capabilities of its predecessor. The aircraft’s arsenal now includes a new ATFLIR targeting pod with a thermal imager, and the variety of ground-attack weapons remains the same, but the payload has increased. In addition to the 20 mm cannon and conventional bombs and rockets, Super Hornet players will have the choice of a vast arsenal of guided weapons, from the APKWS II air-to-ground missiles, advanced AGM-65E and F Mavericks, Paveway II, Paveway III and JDAM guided bombs, as well as long-range JDAM-ER and LJDAM laser-guided bombs, which in addition to inertial guidance with GPS corrections, and Walleye II bombs with a television seeker. Basically, there’s something for everyone!

In addition to weapons, you’ll also be able to utilize enhanced visibility capabilities, active and passive defense, including a convenient helmet-mounted display and target cueing system for air combat, an advanced informative RWR, and a large supply of flare/chaff.

Along with the increased payload and number of weapon hardpoints, and despite the larger wing and extensive use of lightweight composite materials, there was a need for increased thrust on the aircraft. The Super Hornet was given a pair of new F414-GE-400 engines with an afterburning power of approximately 9,470 kgf, making the aircraft’s speed and maneuverability performance comparable to earlier models in the series. While the Hornet family can’t match the best interceptors in speed, its speed and most importantly, maneuverability are more than sufficient for air combat and anti-missile maneuvers!

The epic Super Hornet, surrounded by a vast arsenal of available weapons, is waiting for you in the hangars of the upcoming Line of Contact major update. We’re finalizing preparations for the release and look forward to seeing you playing it!

Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.