FSX US Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet NE300

This repaint offers a detailed livery showcasing the 2013 CAG markings of VFA-86 "Sidewinders," designed exclusively for the payware VRS F-18E Super Bug. Created by CJ Ladd, it features "baked" textures tailored for the 1.4 TacPack update and adds a historically accurate look to enchance carrier-based operations in Microsoft Flight Simulator X. Note that this modification does not include the payware jet itself, which must be obtained separately from a store such as SimShack.

Visual Enhancements and Historical Background

The Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet, renowned for its significant aerodynamic refinements and upgraded avionics, is pivotal to modern US Navy carrier strike groups. This particular scheme represents VFA-86 "Sidewinders," a squadron that has undergone multiple deployments, including maritime patrols and combat sorties, to support naval operations. The distinct markings displayed on the CAG aircraft (often reserved for the commanding officer or Carrier Air Group Commander) incorporate vibrant squadron insignia, tail codes consistent with CVW-2 affiliation, and NE300 references to the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76). Over the years, the Sidewinders have proven their capabilities through various deployments and rigorous readiness cycles, culminating in a transition to the more advanced Super Hornet variant.

Technical Features of the Repaint

• Highly refined textures for the VRS F-18E Super Bug add-on.
• Optimized for the 1.4 TacPack with "baked" layers for enhanced realism.
• Accurate tail codes and squadron emblems reflecting the 2013 CAG livery.
• Attention to subtle fuselage details, including panel lines and weathering effects.

Included Imagery

Configuration Data

Below is the relevant aircraft.cfg entry that integrates the new squadron textures. Ensure you modify your setup accordingly to align with existing flight simulator settings.

[fltsim.0] title=VFA-86 "Sidewinders" CAG sim=FA-18E-6.8_SE panel= model= texture=VFA-86_CAG kb_checklists=HTML/FA-18E-check kb_reference=HTML/FA-18E-keys ui_manufacturer="Boeing" ui_type="F/A-18E" ui_variation=VFA-86 "Sidewinders" CAG ui_typerole=Twin Engine Jet ui_createdby=Vertical Reality Simulations atc_heavy=0 atc_id=NE300 atc_airline=Winder atc_flight_number=300 atc_parking_types=MIL_COMBAT description=Strike Fighter Squadron EIGHTY SIX (VFA-86) Based: NAS Lemoore, CA. Wing: CVW-2(NE) Ship: USS Ronald Reagan(CVN-76) Callsign: "Winder" BuNo: 166950 In the fall of 2008, the Sidewinders changed operational commanders and joined CVW-11 and the NIMITZ Strike Group as they readied for a 2009 deployment. In July 2009, the squadron once again departed MCAS Beaufort and headed west, deploying as part of the NIMITZ-BARBWIRE team and Carrier Strike Group ELEVEN. The Strike Group entered the 5th Fleet Area of Responsibility in September of 2009 and spent the following five months flying combat sorties in support of OEF. The USS NIMITZ Carrier Strike Group completed its Western Pacific deployment in March of 2010 with the Sidewinders accumulating a total of 4,200 flight hours and 1,350 sorties. The Sidewinders of VFA-86 had successfully completed their fifth deployment flying combat sorties in support of OEF. In March of 2010, the squadron returned to MCAS Beaufort, SC. The Sidewinders maintained their high level of readiness as they readied themselves to turn a new page in their history with a move to NAS Lemoore, CA and transition to the FA-18E Super Hornet. They are currently assinged to CVW-2 and are due to deploy aboard the USS Ronald Reagan. atc_parking_codes=M001

Key Takeaways

• Creators: By CJ Ladd, compatible with the payware VRS F-18E Super Bug.
• Requires a separate purchase of the base add-on for full functionality.
• Showcases the authentic 2013 VFA-86 "Sidewinders" CAG scheme for advanced naval aviation simulation.