On a whim about the AIM-174B Gunslinger, I looked up on Google, and will not be modifying the Super Hornet radar (unless I can figure out some non-OP way of doing it (or somebody has a suggestion...) and so on. The way it works via Google is this:
The F/A-18 Super Hornet's improved radar, specifically the Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, works with the AIM-174B missile by providing the necessary target data for long-range engagements. While the Super Hornet's radar is capable of its own targeting, the extreme range of the AIM-174 also relies on the broader Naval Integrated Fire Control-Counter Air (NIFC-CA) network, which includes assets like the F-35 and E-2D, to provide mid-course guidance and create a powerful "kill web". This allows the Super Hornet to act as a launch platform for the missile, which can then be guided to the target using data from other networked sensors.
Role of the Super Hornet's radar and sensors
AESA Radar:
The Super Hornet's AESA radar is essential for initial detection and tracking of enemy aircraft, providing the foundational data needed for a missile launch.
Infrared Search and Track (IRST):
The addition of the ASG-34A IRST further enhances the Super Hornet's ability to detect and track targets, especially in electronic warfare or radar-denied environments.
Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System:
This system allows pilots to quickly designate targets, integrating the pilot's head movement with the targeting data from the radar and IRST.
How the AIM-174 and networked sensors work together
Missile launch:
The Super Hornet launches the AIM-174, which can operate on its own active radarseeker for terminal guidance.
Networked targeting:
The missile can also receive updates in flight through the NIFC-CA network, ensuring it stays on course even at extremely long ranges.
Role of other assets:
For maximum effect at its longest ranges, the AIM-174's mid-course guidance will likely be provided by other assets in the network, such as an F-35 or E-2D, which have greater radar range and a more powerful view of the battlefield.
The big picture
Kill chain breaker:
The combination of the AIM-174's range and the Super Hornet's sensor suite, augmented by the NIFC-CA network, is designed to break the enemy's kill chain.
F-14 Phoenix replacement:
This capability helps fill the long-range air-to-air engagement gap left by the retirement of the AIM-54 Phoenix missile.
Enhanced capability:
By using the Super Hornet as a launch platform supported by networked sensors, the Navy can extend its engagement reach significantly, making it a much more formidable combat aircraft.
This is what I got through the AI prompt, and so it'll pretty much stand that no update to the Super Hornet Pack will happen. Again if there's a way to make it work at longer ranges, I'm all ears, but as how the game works... It'll just be a bigger AIM-120 so far.