EA-18G Growlers from the “Star Warriors” of Digital Assault Squadron (VAQ) 209 concurrently hearth two AGM-88 Excessive Velocity Anti-Radiation Missiles (HARM) throughout a coaching train close to Guam. Supporting a free and open Indo-Pacific and working out of Andersen Air Drive Base on the “Ahead Edge” whereas using the Marianas Islands Vary Complicated, VAQ-209’s live-fire train supplied helpful coaching to ordnance personnel and aircrew alike. Because the US Navy’s solely Reserve EA-18G squadron, VAQ-209 is presently ahead deployed to Japan and working throughout the Indo-Pacific because the expeditionary VAQ squadron presently assigned to Commander, Process Drive (CTF) 70.
The AGM-88 HARM (Excessive-speed Anti-Radiation Missile) is a tactical, air-to-surface anti-radiation missile designed to residence in on digital transmissions coming from surface-to-air radar techniques. It was initially developed by Texas Devices, manufacturing was later taken over by Raytheon Company. The AGM-88 can detect, assault and destroy a radar antenna or transmitter with minimal aircrew enter. The proportional steerage system that properties in on enemy radar emissions has a set antenna and seeker head within the missile’s nostril. A smokeless, solid-propellant, booster-sustainer rocket motor propels the missile at speeds over Mach 2.0.
Commercial
The Boeing EA-18G Growler is a carrier-based digital warfare plane, a specialised model of the two-seat F/A-18F Tremendous Hornet. This attribute permits the Growler to carry out escort jamming in addition to the standard standoff jamming mission (Radar jamming and deception). The EA-18G changed the Northrop Grumman EA-6B Prowlers in service with the US Navy. The Growler’s digital warfare functionality is primarily supplied by Northrop Grumman. The EA-18G started manufacturing in 2007 and entered operational service with the US Navy in late 2009. Australia has additionally bought twelve EA-18Gs, which entered service with the Royal Australian Air Drive in 2017.
Digital Assault Squadron 209 (VAQ-209) is a United States Navy Reserve digital assault squadron. Referred to as the “Star Warriors”, the squadron flies the EA-18G Growler carrier-based digital warfare jet plane. It’s assigned to the Tactical Assist Wing and primarily based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. Its mission is: “To soundly prepare to realize and keep mobilization readiness for fast employment in occasion of battle or nationwide emergency.” VAQ-209 stays at their residence base of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. They proceed to finish coaching and routine flights across the areas of Washington and Oregon.
