In a significant move, the US Navy has finalized a $1.1 billion contract with Boeing for the last 17 F/A-18E/F Super Hornets. This deal, which follows a period of uncertainty, signals the potential end of production for the iconic fighter jet.
The contract includes 10 F/A-18F Lot 46 aircraft and seven from Lot 47, with deliveries expected to begin in late 2026 and finish by spring 2027. The Super Hornet, a mainstay of US Naval aviation, has recently faced setbacks such as the Indian Navy's decision to choose the French Rafale fighter. With no additional US Navy orders likely, the end of production is in sight.
This leaves Boeing with just two fighter jets in production – the Super Hornet and the more advanced F-15EX. Industry experts suggest Boeing will likely concentrate its efforts on the F-15EX, a fighter better suited to the demands of modern aerial warfare.
The Super Hornet has been a reliable workhorse for the US Navy for decades. However, with this final order, its future as a major player in the global fighter jet market appears uncertain. This marks a turning point in aviation history as a legendary aircraft nears the end of its production run.
