Air Power Series>1:72 die-cast display model>EA-18G>HA5154

General Background

In order to replace their aging EA-6B Prowlers the USN acquired a specialized version of the F/A- 18F Super Hornet, the EA-18G Growler. The Growler is an advanced airborne electronic attack aircraft capable of tactical jamming and electronic protection. The first EA-18G Growler flight took place in August 2006 with the first USN production aircraft being delivered to VAQ129 in June 2008. After operational capability testing full production of the EA18G Growler began in late 2009. In 2010 VAQ-132, 138 and 141 were re-equipped with the Growler.

The Aircraft

In 2006 the second built EA-18G 166856 made its first flight and then was delivered to China Lake wearing a basic grey paint with the markings NJ VAQ-129 numbered 552. Not long after, the aircraft was transferred to VX-9 Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Nine, (AIRTEVRON NINE) more commonly known as “Vampires” and in August 2008 was given a new paint scheme and wearing XE-572. On November 17, 2008 the air craft had an engine fire and landed safely.

Specifications :

Role:	carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft
Crew:	2 X Pilot and WSO
Dimensions
Length:	60.2 ft (18.3 m)
Height:	16 ft (4.9 m)
Wingspan:	44.9 ft (13.7 m)
Weight
Empty:	33.094 lb (15,011 kg)
Maxium Takeoff:	66,000 lb (29,964 kg)
Recovery:	48,000 lb (21,772 kg)
Performance
Power Plant:	2 X General electric F414-GE400 Turbofans
Thrust (Static):	Dry – 14,000 lbf (62.kN) per engine
With afterburners:	22,000 lbf (97.9 kN) per engine
External fuel:	3 X 480 gal tanks (9,774 lb) (4,420 kg)
Maximum Speed:	Mach 1.8 (1,190 mph, 1,900 kph) @ 40,000 ft (12,190 m)
Range:	Range – 1,275 nmi (2,346 km)
Ferry Range:	1,800 nmi (2,070 km)
Service Ceiling:	Service Ceiling – 50,000 ft (15,000 m)
Armament:
Hardpoints:	9 X 6 under wings, 3 X under fuselage
Capable of carrying :	17,750 lb (8,050 kg) external fuel and ordnance
	6 under wing hardpoints capable of carrying a combination of Fuel tanks
	AN/ALQ-99 Jamming Pods as well as other numerous pods and sensors AGM-88 HARM missiles AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles Wingtip pods – AN/ALQ-218 detection pods