Boeing has announced that it will no longer produce the F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter aircraft beginning in late 2025.
The decision would end nearly four decades of building the fourth-generation warplane for military customers worldwide.
According to the company, ending the production would allow it to redirect resources to develop more advanced military aircraft.
Boeing plans to build three state-of-the-art facilities in St. Louis to support work on the next generation of crewed and uncrewed aircraft.
“As we invest in and develop the next era of capability, we are applying the same innovation and expertise that made the F/A-18 a workhorse for the US Navy and air forces around the world…” company vice president Steve Nordlund said.
Boeing noted that the production of Super Hornets could be extended to 2027 if an international customer selects the aircraft.
‘Focus on Modernization’
Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet is designed to provide multi-role strike fighter capability against current and emerging threats.
It serves as the “backbone” of the US Navy’s carrier air wing, offering improved flexibility and performance on the modern battlefield.
Boeing said its decision to stop producing the aircraft would mean it could focus more on modernization and upgrades.
It vows to continue developing advanced systems to equip the Super Hornets with the capabilities they need.
Since 1983, the American defense giant has delivered over 2,000 Hornets, Super Hornets, and EA-18G Growlers to the US, Australia, Canada, Finland, Spain, and Switzerland.