Does the EA-18G Growler engine include an afterburner?

• A. Yes, it is a low flow by-pass axial flow turbo fan engine with afterburner.
• B. No, it is a two-stage turbojet without afterburner.
• C. Only during takeoff.
• D. Only with an optional afterburner kit.

Answer: (A)

Fighter aircraft powerplants use low-bypass turbofan engines with an afterburner to deliver both efficient cruise and high-thrust bursts when needed. The EA-18G Growler is equipped with GE F414-GE-400 engines, which are low-bypass axial-flow turbofan engines that include an afterburner. The afterburner injects extra fuel into the hot exhaust, producing a large thrust increase for situations like takeoff, rapid acceleration, or high-speed flight, though it consumes a lot of fuel.

Describing the engine as a two-stage turbojet without afterburner is inaccurate because this engine is not a turbojet; it is a turbofan and it does have an afterburner. The idea that afterburner is used only during takeoff is also incorrect—afterburner can be engaged during flight as needed for performance. And the notion of an optional afterburner kit is incorrect since the afterburner is standard on this engine family.