Government Pilot Careers
Airframes
Primary Airframes:
F18/FA18/EA18
In terms of Fighter aircraft, the United States Navy operates a wide array of extremely capable airframes. However, the F-18 and the F-35 are the two premier fighters that they have to offer. The Navy operates a handful of F-18 variants, such as the F-18 Super Hornet and Hornet, and the EA-18 Growler. Each of the aircraft closely resembles one another, however, each one has various advantages and capabilities unique to their aircraft. The F-18 Super Hornet and Hornet are primarily air to air and air to ground fighters. These aircraft boast highly advanced air to air systems that allow them to dominate the skies in air superiority settings. They also also support a wide array of air to ground weaponry, aiding in their Close Air Support Capabilities. The EA-18 Growler, however a similar airframe, is the Navy’s premier electronic warfare aircraft. The Growler specializes in counter things like radar and communications systems, allowing complete dominance in the skies and seas.
F35C Lightning II
The F-35C Lighting II is one of the world's most sophisticated and advanced fighters. The F-35C model is solely operated by the US Navy and Marine Corps. Reinforced landing gear and larger wing area are some of the differences between the regular F-35 and the Navy’s F-35C. These traits allow for precise and consistent Naval operations, such as landing on aircraft carriers. The F-35C displays a diverse portfolio of combat capabilities, such as air to air capabilities, air to ground combat, stealth capabilities, and even electronic warfare.
MH60 R/S Seahawk
Helicopter operations are just another one of the Navy’s capabilities, and the cornerstone of Naval helo ops is certainly the MH-60 Seahawk. The Navy primarily operates two variants of the MH-60, the Romeo and the Sierra models. The MH-60r is primarily employed for anti submarine warfare and reconnaissance operations. This helo is capable of targeting, tracking, and striking hostile submarines that pose a threat to Naval fleets. The MH-60s, on the other hand, takes care of the Navy’s Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) and humanitarian operations.


