The F/A-18B Hornet is the two-seat trainer and combat-capable variant of the classic McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A, serving with the United States Navy (USN). Within the Navy’s VFC-12 “Fighting Omars”, the aircraft is employed as an Adversary/AGGRESSOR platform, replicating the flight and visual characteristics of potential enemy fighters for realistic air combat training.

In recent years, VFC-12 aircraft have been painted in Russian-style “Flanker” camouflage schemes, including patterns inspired by the Su-34 “Fullback” strike fighter. These distinctive blue-gray digital or splinter camouflage liveries are designed to visually simulate the appearance of modern Russian aircraft, enhancing realism during dissimilar air combat training (DACT) exercises.

Key features (F/A-18B Hornet — VFC-12 “Fighting Omars”)

Twin-seat configuration with full combat capability and dual controls for training and aggressor operations.

Digital avionics suite with HUD, radar warning receivers, and updated cockpit systems.

AN/APG-65 or AN/APG-73 radar, supporting both air-to-air and air-to-ground modes.

Highly maneuverable airframe optimized for dogfight training and realistic threat replication.

Distinctive Su-34-inspired livery — blue, light gray, and turquoise tones mimicking Russian strike aircraft schemes used for adversary identification and tactical deception in exercises.

Typical training armament (VFC-12 configuration)

AIM-9M/L Sidewinder (training/inert versions).

AIM-120 AMRAAM (captive or telemetry variants for simulated BVR engagements).

Centerline fuel tank for extended range during sorties.

Electronic countermeasure (ECM) pods and TCTS pods (Tactical Combat Training System) for data recording and range tracking.

Role and significance

The F/A-18B Hornets of VFC-12 play a vital role in preparing Navy and Marine Corps pilots for real-world air combat. By replicating tactics, radar signatures, and visual profiles of adversary fighters such as the Su-27/30/34 family, these aircraft provide invaluable experience in Dissimilar Air Combat Training (DACT).
The Su-34-style paint scheme not only enhances visual realism but also underscores the unit’s mission: to train like the threat, ensuring U.S. pilots are prepared for encounters with near-peer adversaries.

Controls:

AG1: Jettison Fuel Tank
AG5: Extend refueling probe
AG6: Fold wings
AG7: Arm tail hook
AG8: Lights
VTOL: Flaps
Trim: Adjust Trim

Credits:
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