DefenseBoeing to Relocate Super Hornet Upgrade Work from St. Louis by 2027
Boeing has announced plans to relocate its Super Hornet Service Life Modification (SLM) operations from St. Louis by 2027, as part of a multi-year strategic transition. The company is currently evaluating alternative locations, with San Antonio and Jacksonville among the possible destinations for the program.
The SLM program is responsible for extending the operational life of F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircraft in service with the US Navy. Through the SLM process, each airframe receives upgrades that add up to 4,000 flight hours, allowing older Block II variants to be modernized with Block III capabilities. These enhancements include advanced avionics, improved communications, and increased survivability.
Currently, SLM work is conducted at Boeing’s San Antonio site and in partnership with the US Navy in San Diego. The company reports that annual inductions of Super Hornets into the SLM program have increased, resulting in reduced turnaround times for aircraft returning to the fleet.
The move is part of a broader reorganization at Boeing’s St. Louis facility, which also houses production lines for the F-15EX fighter, T-7A trainer, MQ-25 unmanned aircraft, and munitions. Boeing states that the SLM team in St. Louis will continue to support new programs as the company seeks to optimize its manufacturing and maintenance footprint.
Boeing’s continued collaboration with the US Navy aims to improve SLM processes and ensure fleet readiness. The company remains committed to delivering multiple aircraft and capabilities from various sites throughout the Super Hornet fleet’s operational lifespan.
The transition of SLM work out of St. Louis is expected to be completed by 2027. Boeing is expected to finalize the new location in coordination with the US Navy.
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