Navy directs Super Hornet program manager to install auto GCAS

The Navy's F/A-18E/F Super Hornet program manager has been directed to install an automatic ground collision avoidance system for all Block I and Block II jets.

Capt. David Kindley, F/A-18 and EA-18G program manager, told reporters today it would not be difficult to incorporate the auto GCAS software build but it may be expensive to test the technology. Since the service is early in the assessment process, Kindley does not know what it will cost to install auto GCAS for the fleet.

The House Armed Services Committee's mark of the fiscal year 2019 defense policy bill includes a provision directing the Navy to install auto GCAS onto the Super Hornet.

House Armed Services tactical air and land forces subcommittee Ranking Member Niki Tsongas (D-MA) asked Navy officials April 12 during a hearing if the service plans to install an auto GCAS on the Super Hornet fleet. The Air Force's F-16s have the capability and it has saved many lives, she said.

"The Navy has looked at it in the past and so we have a pretty good avoidance warning system, but it does not take stick from you and the throttle," Kindley said during a May 23 briefing at Boeing's Arlington, VA office.

Kindley said the Marine Corps is also pursuing auto GCAS for its legacy Hornet fleet but it is a different process because the jets do not have an electronic throttle.