Twenty-four F/A-18F Block II Super Hornet aircraft are operated by 82 Wing in support of air combat capability requirements. The Super Hornet achieved Final Operational Capability in December 2012. The Super Hornet aircraft continue to be updated via a spiral upgrade program that ensures Australia's air combat capability edge is maintained. .
The F/A-18F Super Hornet is larger than the F/A-18A/B Classic Hornet. The aircraft's increased wing area allows it to carry more stores (mounted devices) on its additional hardpoints. The twin seat F/A-18F Super Hornet can undertake:
- air interception;
- air combat;
- close air support of ground troops; and
- interception of enemy supply lines including shipping.
Air Combat and Electronic Attack Systems Program Office (ACEASPO) is responsible for the sustainment and upgrade Super Hornet and Growler; ACEASPO is located at RAAF Base Amberley, Queensland. ACEASPO has a Technical Liaison Office (TLO) based in Patuxent River, Maryland USA, co-located with the United States Navy (USN) who provide support via Foreign Military Sales (FMS) arrangements. The Air Combat and Electronic Attack Enterprise includes industry partners include Boeing Defence Australia (BDA), General Electric and Raytheon Australia.
Content is current as at December 2020