Boeing EA-18G Growler

The Boeing EA-18G Growler is an American carrier-based electronic warfare fighter aircraft - a specialized version of the two-seat F/A-18F Super Hornet.
The EA-18G replaced the Northrop Grumman EA-6B Prowlers in service with the United States Navy.
Growler electronic equipment is mainly provided by Northrop Grumman. .

Plastic model kit for a Boeing EA-18G Growler

• 1:48 scale
• Photo-etched parts included
• Includes many optional parts and pilot figures
• 3 marking options
• unbuilt/unpainted
• Paint and glue not included

In modern wars, electronic warfare has become as important as firepower strikes. In 1971, the U.S. Navy
began to use the EA-6B Prowler electronic warfare aircraft to suppress enemy radar systems and obtain
enemy electronic intelligence, and to support the attack fleet and ground forces on its own side.
The EA-18G Growler has 90% commonality with the F/A-18F, and the two aircraft have almost the same
maneuverability. It can carry and launch a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, making it capable of carrying out combat missions like electronic countermeasures, ground support and combat fleet
escort.
To replace the EA-6B Prowler, the U.S. Navy needed a new-generation electronic warfare aircraft. The
Boeing Company seized the opportunity and worked with Northrop Grumman to develop the EA-18G
Growler electronic attack aircraft, a derivative ofthe F/A-18F. The aircraft’s prototype made test flights in
2002 and the first test aircraft made its maiden flight in August 2006. The EA-18G Growler entered operational service on September 22, 2009-
The EA-18G Growler is equipped with advanced electronic equipment such as Multi-Mission Advanced
Tactical Terminal (MATT), Multifunctional Information Distribution System (M1DS) and Link-16. It’s
capable of carrying out comprehensive electronic countermeasures and precision electromagnetic
attacks, and destroying enemy targets with weapons.
With the Northrop Grumman ALQ-218(V)2 tactical receivers , new ALQ-99 tactical electronic jamming
pods and multiple electronic warfare units in the fuselage, the EA-18G Growler can suppress enemy early
waming/search radars by performing all-band jamming. During the jamming process, the EA-18G Growler
can continue to monitor enemy’s electronic communication signals. In addition, its interference cancellation system restores communications on the EA-18G while the electronic jammer is on.
The EA-18G Growler can not only conduct a comprehensive electromagnetic suppression ofthe enemy's
air and ground early warning/search radars in the war zone, but also use AGM-88 HARM high-speed
anti-radiation missiles and other standoff precision-guided weapons to destroy or damage enemy tactical
target like ground-based air defense radars. It’s also capable of using AIM-120 air-to-air missiles for air
combats.
The EA-18G Growler can work with other platforms like airborne early warning and control aircraft and
unmanned aerial vehicles to locate targets and guide attacks. They can conduct multi-target monitoring,
jamming and deception on enemy communications facilities. After identification and positioning of
enemy high-value targets, the attacks will be carried out immediately.