FSX / P3D

FSX USMC VMFA-533 F/A-18E OIF

USMC VMFA(AW)-533 “Hawks” F/A-18E repaint captures the squadron’s “01” jet in an authentic Operation Iraqi Freedom deployment scheme, with crisp markings across the fuselage, tails, and national insignia for realistic ramp and carrier ops. Built for Microsoft Flight Simulator X, it requires the payware VRS F/A-18E Super Hornet v1.4+.

85 downloads 5.6 MB Scanned clean
Flight Simulator X Prepar3D

Enrich your Microsoft Flight Simulator X experience with this detailed USMC VMFA(AW)-533 “Hawks” repaint created by Nathan Havercroft. It showcases the squadron’s iconic “01” jet in a distinctive Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) deployment color scheme. The set is specifically designed for the payware VRS F/A-18E Super Hornet add-on (version 1.4 or higher required). Installation requires the original payware model, which is not included here, but this freeware texture pack is a faithful representation of the real-world Marine unit’s livery.

Technical Highlights of the Super Hornet Repaint

This package replicates the F/A-18E exterior markings of Marine All-Weather Fighter Attack Squadron 533 (abbr. VMFA(AW)-533). Each marking has been meticulously applied to mirror the actual aircraft’s finish during its OIF deployment. Moreover, enhanced detailing around the fuselage, vertical stabilizers, and national insignias makes it suitable for virtual pilots seeking authenticity in Microsoft Flight Simulator X.

Key Reflections of the “Hawks” Heritage

  • The squadron, known under the command of Marine Aircraft Group 31 (MAG-31) and part of the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, has been based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort in South Carolina for many years.
  • They have operated the dual-seat F/A-18D since late 1992 and participated in multiple global missions, including Operation Allied Force in 1999 and Operation Southern Watch, prior to their roles in Operation Iraqi Freedom.
  • This specific repaint reflects the “01” jet during its OIF employment and is dedicated to Fox-3 and the entire Hawks team.

Screenshot of USMC F/A-18E on the ground.

Screenshot of USMC F/A-18E on the ground.

Installation Method

You can integrate these textures easily by extracting the ZIP file to a local folder and then importing via the VRS ACM (Aircraft Configuration Manager). Ensure your F/A-18E is up to date (v1.4 or later) to avoid any compatibility issues.

Usage Notes and Credits

Freeware Status
This repaint is provided without charge, but it remains under the ownership of Nathan Havercroft. Permission is required if you wish to modify or upload these textures elsewhere.
Required Payware
Please note that this package does not include the VRS F/A-18E Super Hornet model. A purchase of that payware product is necessary to properly display these textures.

Whether you enjoy recreating real-world USMC missions or seeking to expand your virtual fighter jet lineup, this VMFA(AW)-533 repaint offers a faithful tribute to one of the Marine Corps’ storied squadrons. It blends historic deployment markings with an accurate rendition of the Super Hornet’s modern airframe, thereby catering to enthusiasts who appreciate both realism and operational history.

Ready to download USMC VMFA-533 F/A-18E OIF?

Free for all simmers · 5.6 MB · Scanned clean

File information

Filename
vmfa533oif.zip
File size
5.6 MB
Virus scan
Clean (scanned with ClamAV)
Access
Freeware
Content rating
Everyone

Download speed: Free tier is capped at 0.5 Mbps (this file takes approximately 2 mins at the cap). PRO members download at full line speed.

How to install this mod

FSX / P3D add-on
  1. Extract the downloaded archive

    Use 7-Zip (free) or WinRAR to extract the ZIP to a temporary folder. Don't install while still zipped — the simulator can't read inside ZIP files.
  2. Place files per the readme

    Most FSX add-ons go into one of: SimObjects\Airplanes\, Addon Scenery\, Effects\, or Gauges\.
  3. Always read the included readme

    Every mod ships with a readme.txt or README file. It tells you exactly where files go, what dependencies are needed, and any quirks specific to this add-on.

What’s inside this archive

The archive vmfa533oif.zip has 24 files and directories contained within it.

File Contents

This list displays the first 500 files in the package. If the package has more, you will need to download it to view them.

Filename/Directory File Date File Size
vmfa533IOF2.jpg01.23.14149.69 kB
EXT_A.dds01.23.141.00 MB
EXT_A_S.dds01.23.141.00 MB
EXT_B.dds01.23.141.00 MB
EXT_B_S.dds01.23.141.00 MB
EXT_C.dds01.20.141.00 MB
EXT_D.dds01.20.141.00 MB
EXT_E.dds01.23.141.00 MB
EXT_E_S.dds01.23.141.00 MB
EXT_F.dds01.23.141.00 MB
EXT_F_S.dds01.23.141.00 MB
EXT_L.dds09.15.1264.12 kB
EXT_M.dds01.23.14256.12 kB
FPU-11_D.dds01.23.14512.12 kB
FPU-11_S.dds01.23.14512.12 kB
texture.cfg05.21.09137 B
thumbnail.jpg01.23.1443.82 kB
VMFA-533_COLOR.txt01.23.141020 B
thumbnail.jpg01.23.1443.82 kB
VMFA-533 _01_OIF Readme.txt01.23.141.07 kB
vmfa533IOF.gif01.23.1412.28 kB
vmfa533IOF.jpg01.23.14148.91 kB
flyawaysimulation.txt10.29.13959 B
Go to Fly Away Simulation.url01.22.1652 B

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