How much does each blue angle jet cost to build

Checked on September 21, 2025
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1. Summary of the results

The cost of building each Blue Angel jet is not explicitly stated in any of the provided analyses [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]. However, some sources provide information on the costs associated with the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, which is the aircraft used by the Blue Angels. For example, one source mentions that the cost of an F/A-18E/F Super Hornet can be around $67.4 million, with costs potentially reaching $73 million [5]. Another source states that the Navy's cost estimate for the Super Hornets is $55.7 million per aircraft [4]. Additionally, a $17 million contract award for retrofitting nine Block 1 F/A-18E Super Hornets and two Block 1 F/A-18F Super Hornets for the Blue Angels is mentioned, but this does not provide a direct cost per jet [2].

  • Key points to consider:
  • The cost of an F/A-18E/F Super Hornet can range from $55.7 million to $73 million [4] [5]
  • A $17 million contract award for retrofitting eleven Super Hornets for the Blue Angels does not provide a direct cost per jet [2]
  • The cost of replacing lost F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter aircraft can be around $180 million for three jets [6]

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some key context that is missing from the original statement is the distinction between the cost of building a standard F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and the cost of building a Blue Angel jet, which may have custom modifications [1]. Additionally, the sources do not provide information on the potential costs associated with maintaining and operating the Blue Angel jets, which could be a significant factor in the overall cost [3]. Alternative viewpoints could include considering the costs associated with other military aircraft, such as the F-35C, which has a cost of approximately $102.1 million [4]. It is also worth noting that the cost of replacing lost aircraft can be substantial, with one source mentioning a cost of $180 million for three jets [6].

  • Important omissions:
  • Distinction between the cost of a standard F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and a Blue Angel jet [1]
  • Costs associated with maintaining and operating the Blue Angel jets [3]
  • Comparison with other military aircraft, such as the F-35C [4]

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement may be misleading as it implies that there is a straightforward answer to the cost of building each Blue Angel jet, when in fact, the provided analyses do not offer a clear answer [1] [2] [3] [4] [5] [6]. The sources that mention the costs of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet may be relevant, but they do not directly address the cost of a Blue Angel jet [4] [5]. The Navy and the military-industrial complex may benefit from the lack of transparency in the costs associated with the Blue Angel jets, as it can make it difficult to hold them accountable for budgeting and spending [2]. On the other hand, the public and taxpayers may benefit from having access to clear and accurate information about the costs associated with the Blue Angel jets, as it can help promote transparency and accountability [4].

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