.

**Data for each of these
characteristics can be
obtained by contacting
the EICO Aviation Specialist
at the NAVFAC Criteria
Office.

The F/A-18E/F is a twinjet, carrier based, fighter/strike system, whose primary missions are fighter escort and interdictions. The F/A-18F is identical to the F/A-18E except the F model has a dual crew station, larger canopy, and less fuel capacity in number one fuel tank.
The F/A-18E/F configuration is based on U.S. Navy Lot XVIII F/A-18C/D aircraft. Planned upgrades focus on improved carrier suitability, provisions for substantial future growth, and achieving reliability and maintainability levels that meet or exceed those of the F/A-18C/D. The F/A-18E/F retains the multi-mission capability and high reliability of the F/A-18C/D while providing increased effectiveness, range, endurance, and payload to meet future requirements.
The F/A-18E/F can be utilized in the tanker configuration utilizing the current GFE Airborne Refueling System (ARS). The ARS pod is centerline mounted (station 6). The four 480 gallon external fuel tanks mounted on suspension points 3,4,8, and 9 (wet stations) provide the tanker's refueling capacity. See Figure 1-3 for suspension points (stations). The role of this configuration is primarily as a mission tanker versus a recovery tanker.
Major changes for The F/A-18E/F include a lengthened fuselage, larger wings, and dual-pressure 3000/5000-psi hydraulics control surfaces. General Electric F414-GE-400 engines with larger high performance inlets improve the propulsion system. Other improvements include a third wing pylon station; increased fuel capacity; modified and strengthened landing gear; improved crew station; increased payload.
The Flight Control mechanical back-up system in the F/A-18C/D is removed in the F/A-18E/F. Existing wiring provisions from the control stick through the Flight Control Computer to the specific actuators/control systems are used for aircraft control. The mechanical throttle linkage to the engines is removed and replaced with electrical transducers. The flight control actuators are modified to operate at 3,000 psi (low surface load) and 5,000 psi (full surface load - maneuvering flight). The Speed Brake and associated components are removed.
The F/A-18C and D models are the result of a block upgrade in 1987 incorporating provisions for employing updated missiles and jamming devices against enemy ordnance. C and D models delivered since 1989 also include an improved night attack capability.