In a remarkable sighting that has set military technology forums abuzz, a U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet has been observed with an unusual payload—a Standard Missile 6 (SM-6) surface-to-air missile.
While the aircraft’s markings were not visibly identifiable, photographer @StinkJet reported hearing radio communications associated with Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 9. StinkJet suggests that the Super Hornet could potentially be affiliated with Air Test and Evaluation Squadron (VX) 9.
This is not the first time the SM-6 has been mounted on a Super Hornet. A similar occurrence was documented in 2021.
Consequently, conjecture arose regarding the potential adaptation of the weapon as a long-range air-to-air or anti-surface missile for the Super Hornet.
Nevertheless, the US Navy has never officially confirmed any plans along these lines, leading to the notion that such developments are purely speculative.
“The jet did three orbits above us and then left,” said @StinkJet, detailing his observation of the event.
The RIM-174 Standard Extended Range Active Missile (ERAM), also known as the Standard Missile 6 (SM-6), plays a crucial role in the air defense capabilities of US Navy ships.
Integrated into the Aegis Combat System, this weapon was specifically designed for extended-range anti-air warfare missions. However, it can also be utilized for terminal phase ballistic missile defense and as an anti-ship missile.
The SM-6 missile inherits its airframe from the SM-2ER Block IV (RIM-156A) missile while incorporating an active radar homing seeker derived from the AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missile.
With a remarkable speed of Mach 3.5, this weapon boasts a published range of 130 nautical miles.
The Standard Missile 6 (SM-6), known as the Standard Extended Range Active Missile, significantly enhances the AEGIS Weapon System’s operational range.
Beyond its extended range anti-air warfare role, the SM-6 also extends its capabilities to anti-surface warfare, enabling engagements against adversary ships.
In a landmark event earlier this year, the weapon saw its inaugural combat deployment.
The Department of Defense confirmed that on Jan. 30, the USS Carney successfully intercepted an anti-ship ballistic missile launched by Houthi rebels in the Gulf of Aden using the SM-6 missile.
Integration of the SM-6 onto the Super Hornet would not only expand the aircraft’s weapons portfolio but would also enhance the defensive and offensive reach of a naval task force.
Relevant articles:
– U.S. Navy F/A-18 Super Hornet Spotted With SM-6 Missile Under Its Right Wing, The Aviationist
– Super Hornet Armed With SM-6 Missile Spotted Over California, The War Zone
– Global Naval Defense News Coverage, Naval News