Image source: topwar.ru
Photos have been published online showing the F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter of the US Navy with a combat load designed exclusively for the fight for air superiority.
The aircraft carries a total of four AIM-174B long-range air-to-air missiles, three AIM-120 AMRAAM medium-range missiles and two AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range missiles.
Image source: topwar.ru
- says the SavunmaSanayiST publication.
Image source: topwar.ru
It is reported that this machine belongs to the 9th Aviation Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX-9), also known as the "vampire squadron". Apparently, the American aviation decided to test a fighter variant specializing in conducting air combat at all distances – long-range, medium and small.
In addition to missiles, the Super Hornet is also equipped with an IRST infrared search and tracking system designed to detect IR radiation, such as the IR signatures of combat aircraft.
Image source: topwar.ru
It is assumed that the F/A-18 in this configuration will be used to protect ship groups from a massive raid by enemy aircraft.
