Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:45:11-1:45:36

F/A-18 commonality, cost, and carrier air wing capacity

F/A-18 commonality was expected to save money and might increase capacity, though the gain remained theoretical in this discussion.

Defence ProcurementF/A-18Naval AviationUS Navy
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Question

Did standardising a carrier air wing around F/A-18 variants increase capacity or mainly save money?

Short answer

Mainly money; a larger common fleet could theoretically increase capacity, but no demonstrated gain is claimed here.

Notes

Standardising a carrier air wing around F/A-18 variants is described mainly as a cost-saving measure. Having more aircraft from one family could theoretically increase capacity, although no realised gain is claimed. A common fleet and a larger available force are separate outcomes. No figures are given for savings or operational output.