The last F/A-18 Hornet modified under HUG Phase 1 was a popular attraction at a family day held in June at RAAF Base Williamtown

A SIGNIFICANT milestone was reached at RAAF Base Williamtown in June with the final F/A-18 modified under Phase 1 of the Project Air-5376 Hornet Upgrade (HUG) accepted by the Air Force.

The Phase 1 upgrade consists of enhancements to Communication and Identification systems, the fitting of anti-jam radios, addition of a sixth multiplexed bus (MUX), replacement of the Inertial Navigation System (INS) with an Embedded GPS INS and a significant upgrade to the Mission Computer hardware and software.

The next phase in the project, HUG Phase 2.1, is well under way and centres around the replacement of the existing radar with the new AN/APG-73 radar.

Tactical Fighter Systems Program Office (TFSPO) and Boeing, the company contracted to perform HUG Phase 1 and 2.1, combined to celebrate the completion of HUG Phase 1 at RAAF Base Williamtown. The HUG Phase 2.1 changes were presented to Airworthiness board on June 26 for fleet release.

More than 350 representatives and guests attended a family day held at the Base. Representatives included TFSPO, Boeing, No 81 Wing staff, No 3 Squadron, No 77 Squadron, No 2 Operational Conversion Unit, No 381 Expeditionary Combat Support Squadron. A flying demonstration was provided by 77SQN and the last HUG Phase 1 modified aircraft was displayed.

By SGT Vernon Fortuin
and CPL Mark Eaton