Aviation Specials - July 2018

Welcome to the 2018 edition of the US Navy and Marine Corps Air Power Yearbook. This annual publication aims to provide a round-up of the most exciting action from the ranks of two of the world’s premier air arms, including insightful interviews and reporting from the cutting edge of naval aviation.

A central theme in this edition surrounds one of the last ‘legacy’ tactical aircraft in the US Marine Corps’ inventory, the mighty EA-6B Prowler. In early 2019, VMAQ-2 will retire its final EA-6Bs, marking the end of an era in US naval aviation. The Prowler is the last in a generation of charismatic fast jets assigned to the tactical electronic warfare and jamming role. Its retirement will be felt by a community that stretches right back to the A-6 Intruder. In its place will be an integrated family of capabilities, designed around podded systems, unmanned aerial vehicles and distributed technology. Many see the Prowler as being irreplaceable.

Ultimately, the F-35 is stepping into the void. Both the Marines and the Navy are into their stride with their respective Lightning IIs. In addition, the Navy is making progress to ensure its Super Hornets are ready for the future, now being engaged in both service life extensions and capability upgrades.

Jamie Hunter, Editor