Whidbey Island to get 36 more Growlers

MOUNT VERNON, Wash. — The Navy will bring 36 more EA-18G Growler jets to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island off the Washington coast.

The Skagit Valley Herald reports the record of decision issued Wednesday marks the final step in the yearslong process to prepare a required environmental impact statement.

Ted Brown, a spokesman for U.S. Fleet Forces Command, says the Navy expects the additional jets and personnel to gradually arrive at NAS Whidbey Island between now and 2022.

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Navy nixes increased nuisance noise monitoring

The Navy terminated talks with groups in December about easing the impacts of expanded Growler training at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.

The Navy will also take various steps to reduce jet noise, including using new technologies to quiet the engines and improve the precision of landing.

The Navy has said the addition of 36 Growlers is necessary to maintain the Navy’s overall electronic attack capabilities.

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