Hornets to get more defences

Hornet upgrades continue.

FA/18 Upgrade
(MPEG Video 4.09 MB)

OUR F/A-18 Hornets will be equipped with state-of-the-art electronic warfare self-protection systems to ensure they can defend themselves against the most modern air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles.

Under the $300 million project that Defence Minister Robert Hill announced on April 1, the Hornet’s radar warning receivers will be replaced while its chaff and flare dispensers and associated equipment will be augmented.

The upgrade will be completed in the first squadron by 2007 and the whole fleet by 2009. Most of the work will be done at RAAF Base Williamtown.
Defence will also assess a number of radio frequency jammers for the Hornets with
Government making a decision on a new jammer next year.

The project is one of a number of planned upgrades to the Hornet aircraft to ensure it remains air-capable pending the arrival of the Joint Strike Fighter.

The upgrade will greatly improve the ability of the Hornet to detect and defeat threats. This will increase its operational effectiveness and reduce potential risks to the aircraft and pilots.

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