The Department of Defense's 2024 Annual Report sheds light on key US Naval Aviation programs, notably the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler. These aircraft are integral to the Navy's operational strategy, each serving distinct roles. The Super Hornet had its first flight in 1995 and achieved Initial Operational Capability (IOC) in 2001, while the Growler reached IOC in 2009.
Both aircraft continue to be essential for missions from carriers or forward bases. A focus on agile Continuous Integration, Delivery, and Deployment (CID&D) strategies is crucial for their ongoing success. "The success of these programs will hinge on collaborative efforts between contractors, test squadrons, and policymakers," as noted in the report.
The term "strike fighter" has evolved over time within naval contexts since the 1940s and was fully adopted by the United States Navy by the 1970s. It refers to multirole combat aircraft that emphasize aerial combat capabilities. This term became official with the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet being labeled a strike fighter in 1983.