TUCSON, AZ, Feb 23, 2026 – The U.S. Navy has approved Raytheon’s StormBreaker smart weapon for operational use on the F/A-18-E/F Super Hornet strike fighter, expanding the jet’s all-weather strike capability.
StormBreaker is the only operational smart weapon cleared to hit moving and stationary targets in fair or adverse weather, on land or at sea. Its design allows a single aircraft to carry and strike more surface targets per sortie. The weapon can track and engage mobile threats in flight, reducing aircrew exposure in contested environments.
“The Super Hornet plays a critical role in the Navy’s air combat strategy and equipping it with StormBreaker increases the aircraft’s lethality by enabling precision strike in all weather conditions,” said Sam Deneke, president of air & space defense systems at Raytheon. “StormBreaker’s accuracy and versatility gives operators the upper hand in the most degraded environments, ensuring they can complete the mission and return home safely.”
In 2023, the Super Hornet became the first U.S. Navy aircraft to carry StormBreaker. StormBreaker is approved for use on the F-15E and the F/A-18-E/F Super Hornet, and is currently being integrated on the F-35A/B/C.
Source: RTX
About Raytheon
Raytheon, a business segment of RTX Corp., is a U.S.-based defense and aerospace company headquartered in Arlington, VA. With origins dating to 1922 and its current structure formed through a 2020 merger, Raytheon develops technologies in missile systems, radar, space-based sensors and cybersecurity. The company supports government and commercial clients across the defense, intelligence, aerospace and space sectors. Raytheon operates alongside other RTX business units, including Collins Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney. Its capabilities include guided weapons, air defense systems, satellite payloads and secure communications.
About RTX
RTX, formerly Raytheon Technologies, is a global aerospace and defense company that provides advanced systems, products and services. It specializes in aircraft engines, avionics, cybersecurity solutions and defense systems, serving the aerospace, defense, intelligence and security sectors. With a history spanning more than a century, RTX combines expertise from its predecessor companies to support technological development. Headquartered in Waltham, MA, the company employs about 185,000 people worldwide. Its clients include the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.K. Ministry of Defence, Airbus and Boeing. RTX supports commercial and military programs by focusing on safety, performance and efficiency, while addressing operational challenges across multiple sectors.