The McDonnell Douglas F/A-18B Hornet is the twin-seat, fully combat-capable trainer variant of the classic F/A-18A, serving with both the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. Within the VFA-125 “Rough Raiders”, the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS), this aircraft is employed for advanced training and operational conversion, preparing new aviators for frontline service on single-seat F/A-18C/D and F/A-18E/F Super Hornets.

This profile is based on aircraft Bureau Number 162876, a representative example of the type operated by VFA-125 during its service as the primary Hornet training platform for Navy and Marine Corps pilots.

Role and Employment

VFA-125 functions as the Fleet Replacement Squadron, tasked with the initial and refresher training of pilots and Weapon Systems Officers (WSOs).
The F/A-18B is utilized for:

Transition training to the Hornet series.

Familiarization with avionics, radar systems, and weapons employment.

Air-to-air and air-to-ground tactical training.

Day and night flight qualification.

Key Features (F/A-18B — VFA-125 “Rough Raiders”)

Twin-seat configuration with full dual controls for instructor and trainee.

Advanced digital avionics suite, including HUD, radar warning receiver (RWR), and multifunction displays.

AN/APG-65 or AN/APG-73 radar, supporting multimode air-to-air and air-to-ground operations.

High agility and robust airframe, optimized for training in realistic combat scenarios.

Standard U.S. Navy/Marine Corps two-tone low-visibility gray camouflage, featuring reduced markings for tactical realism.

Typical Training Armament (VFA-125 configuration)

AIM-9M/L Sidewinder (inert or captive training variants).

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

330-gallon centerline fuel tank for extended endurance during training missions.

Electronic Countermeasure (ECM) pods or TCTS (Tactical Combat Training System) pods for flight data and tracking.

Role and Significance

The F/A-18B Hornets of VFA-125 have played a key role in shaping generations of U.S. Navy and Marine Corps fighter pilots.
Through intensive training programs that integrate flight performance, systems management, and combat tactics, the “Rough Raiders” ensure operational proficiency and mission readiness across the Hornet fleet.

Aircraft BuNo 162876 exemplifies the importance of the F/A-18B within Marine Corps aviation — a versatile, combat-ready trainer that bridges the gap between basic flight training and frontline multirole operations.

Controls:

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

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