The A-6F proposal paired Hornet-family turbofans with improved fuel economy, new avionics, AMRAAM capability, and two additional weapon stations. The Navy chose the A-12 Avenger II route instead. Shared engines raise a counterfactual in which separate fighter, attack, and electronic-warfare aircraft survive while their logistical costs fall. In that alternative air wing, the Super Hornet could concentrate on fighter and air-defense duties while Intruders and Prowlers retained their specialist roles. The scenario separates component commonality from making one airframe perform every combat task.
Chapter · 32:11-34:16
The A-6F and a mixed common-engine air wing
The proposed A-6F suggests an alternative air wing in which Intruders, Prowlers, and Hornets shared engines but retained specialized roles.