EA-18G Growler
The EA-18G Growler’s vast array of sensors and weapons provides the warfighter with a lethal and survivable weapon system to counter current and emerging threats.
www.navair.navy.milHere’s the latest on the Boeing EA-18G Growler.
Key takeaways
- The EA-18G Growler continues to undergo modernization as part of ongoing Navy programs to upgrade electronic attack capabilities, including Block II/Next Generation Electronic Attack Unit efforts. These upgrades aim to improve sensors, jamming effectiveness, and interoperability with newer systems.
- A notable recent milestone cited in 2025–2026 coverage is Boeing’s involvement in delivering upgrade kits and supporting the Growler fleet under the Block II program, with contracts supporting production and spares for the next generation EW upgrades.
- The Growler remains based on the F/A-18F Super Hornet airframe, equipped with ALQ-218 receivers, ALQ-99 jamming pods, and associated electronic warfare and communications systems, designed to suppress or deny adversary radar and C2 links while preserving air wing survivability.
Recent developments by topic
- Upgrades and Block II program:
- Navy/Boeing collaborations focus on delivering updated electronic attack capabilities, including sensor improvements and potential conformal fuel-tank integration similar to earlier Block III concepts, with phase-based plans extending into 2025–2026.
- A contract in 2025–2026 supported production of Next Generation EW kits (NGEAU B-Kits) and spares to equip Growlers for the Block II upgrade effort. This indicates continued investment in keeping the Growler fleet at the edge of EW technology.
- Production and fleet context:
- The Growler remains a carrier-based electronic warfare platform designed to complement the Super Hornet family, with upgrades intended to enhance detection, jamming, and electronic protection in contested environments.
- Public-facing history and context:
- The Growler program has a long lineage from earlier Prowler-to-Growler transitions, with ongoing modernization reflecting both fleet needs and integration with newer air-wing systems.
What this means for pilots and operators
- Expect upgraded EW capabilities that improve situational awareness and the ability to disrupt or degrade adversary radars and communications during carrier operations.
- Upgrades aim to extend the Growler’s relevance by aligning its electronic attack suite with evolving threat networks and joint force interoperability.
If you’d like, I can pull in more detailed, up-to-date sources, or summarize a particular contract or upgrade phase (e.g., Block II vs. Next Generation EW) with a concise timeline.
Citations:
- Latest Growler Block II upgrades and program status.[1]
- Navy contract for Growler Block II equipment and spares.[5]
- Growler EW suite and role within the Super Hornet family.[9]
- Historical context on Growler upgrades and integration efforts.[3][6]