The Hornet is a dynamic weapons-delivery platform insofar as it readily accommodates most new ordnance and sensor technologies (provided they don't exceed the aircraft's weight limits). For example, Hornets were slated to carry the now-cancelled Northrup Grumman Tri-Service Standoff Attack Missile (TSSAM) before its cancellation. Along with F-16C/Ds, it is expected that F/A-18s will now deliver a standard load of two Air Force-Navy JASSMs (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile). These TSSAM replacements have a touted range of over 180 miles, pin-point accuracy, small radar signature and 1,000-lb warhead.
%n%n
Another future weapon is the AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapon, a glide munition intended for heavily shielded targets, such as reinforced bunkers. The first Hornet launch took place on March 8, 1994 with NF/A-18A (BuNo 161925).
