In this update2
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Full War Thunder update
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What changed
- Balance
- Gameplay
The Line of Contact update brings the American F/A-18E Super Hornet carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft, one of the best aircraft in its class in the world, to the game!
| F/A-18E Super Hornet: A Jet Fighter/Naval Aircraft for the USA at Rank VIII |
| At a glance:11 weapon hardpoints!Radar with AESACan carry up to 12 ARH missilesGuided bombs and missiles for ground attack |
Vehicle History
The F/A-18E Super Hornet carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft was developed as a major upgrade of the F/A-18C Hornet. A full-scale development contract was signed in December 1992, and the prototype first flew in November 1995. Despite its external resemblance to its predecessor, it was essentially a new aircraft, with a 90% redesigned airframe, featuring an increased proportion of composite materials and new aerodynamic solutions. The increased dimensions allowed for a third more fuel capacity in the internal tanks and the addition of weapons hardpoints, while maintaining flight performance thanks to more powerful F414-GE-400 engines and an improved control system.
To save time and money during the initial development phase, nearly 90% of the new aircraft’s avionics were borrowed from the F/A-18C. However, with the start of serial deliveries in November 1999, a program of consistent upgrades began. Block I, which began in 2001, installed new open-architecture onboard computers, an improved electronic warfare suite, modern displays, and the Joint Helmet-Mounted Sighting System (JHMCS). The next and most significant step was the Block II upgrade program, which began in 2005. Its key element was the installation of a new Raytheon AN/APG-79 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, the first units of which were delivered to the aircraft in 2007. This upgrade, along with modernization of the entire avionics suite and cockpit, dramatically increased the Super Hornet’s combat capabilities, turning it into one of the most technologically advanced combat aircraft in the modern era.
Introducing the F/A-18E Super Hornet!
Today we’re taking a look at one of the main stars of the Line of Contact major update! Meet the magnificent F/A-18E Super Hornet, the US Navy’s most modern and advanced carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft. Let’s take a look at this jet aircraft, which is sure to sting enemy opponents!
Developer Note: We would like to draw attention to the fact that the F/A-18E Super Hornet and other jets for USA, USSR, China and Sweden that are coming in Line of Contact means there are four vehicles at rank VIII vertically for these nations, which is something we said we would not do. This will only be temporary as we would like to confirm that in early 2026 we’ll be introducing rank IX for aircraft, which aims to solve this problem by moving some rank VIII aircraft to rank IX along with some economic changes. However, until then, you can still use aircraft at rank VII to effectively research the new top-tier jets released in the Line of Contact major update. Stay tuned for more news coming in the next few months!
Despite having a one-letter name difference from its predecessor, the F/A-18C, the new Super Hornet is in many ways a completely new aircraft. Let’s take a look at the key differences and characteristics. First off, the Super Hornet has a new AN/APG-79 active phased array radar, providing you with real-time target information. The wing area has been increased, and the number of weapon hardpoints has increased to 11. When loaded for beyond-visual-range combat, the Super Hornet can now carry up to 12 AIM-120B or C-5 ARH missiles, plus an external fuel tank under the
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