The EA-18G Growler is a variant of the combat-proven F/A-18F Super Hornet Block II, and will fly the airborne electronic attack mission, replacing the EA-6B Prowler. The EA-18G combines the capability of the combat-proven Super Hornet with the latest AEA avionics suite evolved from the Improved Capability III (ICAP III) system. The first production aircraft made its first flight on Sept. 10, 2007 (shown here) and was delivered to the U.S. Navy on Sept. 24, almost a month ahead of schedule. It will initially be used in the flight test program at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Md., before entering fleet service. The Growler is expected to complete developmental flight testing in 2008, followed by initial operational capability in 2009.