FSX US Navy S-3B Viking VX-30 CONA

This enhanced repaint package celebrates the Lockheed S-3B Viking in its VX-30 CONA markings, crafted by Antonio Diaz for a freeware S-3B Viking model designed by Dino Cattaneo. It offers a faithful representation of an aircraft that once served as a versatile sub-hunter and aerial refueling platform within the U.S. Navy. Though retired from primary carrier duties, this jet remains an integral part of specialized research and test operations.

Historic Naval Innovation and Capabilities

The Lockheed S-3B Viking is a four-seat, twin-engine jet conceived for stealthy submarine detection, employing advanced sensor arrays for underwater threat tracking. Initially introduced to bolster maritime anti-submarine efforts, it evolved into a multipurpose asset with responsibilities that included surface warfare and in-flight refueling at sea. The Viking’s airframe design accommodates lengthy flight times, ensuring continuous monitoring of open-ocean theaters. During its service, it also carried out surveillance tasks and provided a valuable electronic warfare edge to carrier groups.

Post-Front-Line Carrier Operations

Although the S-3 Viking was formally withdrawn from primary fleet operations in January 2009, its functions were transferred to other aircraft such as the P-3C Orion and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. However, several examples continue to fly with Air Test and Evaluation Squadron 30 (VX-30) at Naval Base Ventura County, frequently supporting range clearance and observational duties. Notably, a sole unit is also employed by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) at the NASA Glenn Research Center, conducting experimentation and research missions.

Repaint Features and Focus

This specific VX-30 CONA repaint enhances Microsoft Flight Simulator X with immersive visual fidelity, highlighting the commemorative paint scheme. It meticulously depicts squadron accents, ensuring that enthusiasts can relish the bright markings that honor a rich tradition of naval aviation. The bold CONA (Centennial of Naval Aviation) motifs are reproduced accurately, preserving the details seen on the real-world aircraft.

Technical Enhancements

• High-Resolution Textures: The scheme includes carefully detailed markings, optimized for realism.
• Consistent Color Palettes: Accurate color matching reflects the CONA celebration stripes used for the centennial anniversary.
• Squadron Insignia Representation: Authentic squadron emblems and tail fin symbols.

Aircraft Configuration Entry

Add the following lines to the aircraft.cfg file to activate the repaint, making sure to replace XX with the next available number:

[fltsim.XX]
title=Lockheed S-3B Viking CONA
sim=S-3B
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=CONA
kb_checklists=s3b_check
kb_reference=s3b_ref
atc_airline=NAVY
atc_flight_number=700
ui_manufacturer=Lockheed
ui_type=S-3B Viking
ui_variation=CONA
description="The Lockheed S-3 Viking is a four-seat twin-engine jet aircraft once employed by the U.S. Navy for submarine detection and surface warfare. Nicknamed the Hoover for its distinct engine noise, it excelled in electronic warfare and refueling missions. After its decommission, VX-30 at Naval Base Ventura County continued operating the S-3B for range clearance and surveillance, while NASA Glenn Research Center utilizes one for research pursuits."

Base Model Requirements

This repaint modifies only the external appearance and requires the freeware S-3B Viking model by Dino Cattaneo. If you do not already have the base package installed, you can find it in the Fly Away Simulation library. After successful installation of the base aircraft, simply integrate this repaint for full compatibility within Microsoft Flight Simulator X.

Enjoy recreating anti-submarine patrols or research flights as you take the “Hoover” aloft. This add-on pays homage to the ingenuity of Lockheed’s design and the pilots who flew these multi-role jets in support of critical naval operations.