With the career of the USA's current electronic attack aircraft, the EA-6B Prowler, nearing its sunset a successor was badly needed. The role is currently being inherited by the new family member of the 'Superbug' series, the EA-18G Growler. This sub-type shares 90% commonality with its counterpart, the combat-proven F/A-18F, which fields a capable self-defence suite as well as the primary mission equipment required to fulfil the electronic attack role. At this time the EA-18G is slated to be the only dedicated electronic warfare aircraft in the future force of the USA. It is also proposed that Growler should be the main source of tactical jamming support for all NATO air forces. Capabilities include Suppression of Enemy Air Defences, stand-off attack and escort jamming, non-traditional electronic attack and time-critical strike support. The Growler has already flown on active service and cut its teeth during Operation Odyssey Dawn, to help enforce a United Nations no-fly zone over Libya in 2011.
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