FSX US Navy S-3B Viking 702

This repaint showcases a distinctive U.S. Navy S-3B aircraft from VS-30, known as the “Diamond Cutters,” as it appeared on USS Saratoga in May 1992. Created for Dino Cattaneo’s freeware Lockheed S-3B Viking package, it highlights detailed naval markings and reflects the final days of this squadron prior to its disestablishment in December 2005. This texture set works in both Microsoft Flight Simulator X and Prepar3D (v2.xx), and requires the base freeware model. Repaint by Russel R. Smith.

Historical Notes on the Diamond Cutters

The Diamond Cutters, formally identified as VS-30, were longstanding contributors to naval aviation operations. Their Lockheed S-3B Vikings took part in submarine detection missions, surface warfare support, and replenishment tasks. This unique livery pays tribute to the squadron’s time aboard the USS Saratoga in the early 1990s, before the S-3B Viking eventually transitioned out of front-line service.

About This Lockheed S-3B Viking Repaint

Dino Cattaneo’s S-3B Viking freeware model, widely respected in the simulation community, forms the foundation for this repaint package. The four-seat twin-engine aircraft, once serving as a critical asset in anti-submarine warfare, is reproduced with accurate details and flight dynamics. Because of its characteristic engine acoustics, the Viking earned the unofficial nickname "Hoover," echoing the vacuum cleaner brand. Although the Navy retired most S-3B aircraft in 2009, a few continue to fly for specialized ranges, test duties, and uniquely, with NASA for research activities.

Key Livery Details

• Squadron Heritage: Honors VS-30’s final years operating from USS Saratoga prior to disestablishment.
• Authentic Badges: Includes squadron insignia and naval markings reflecting the unit’s identity in 1992.
• High-Resolution Textures: Delivers a crisp finish while maintaining realistic surface wear and tear.

Installation Steps

1. Extract the files directly into the existing Lockheed_S3_Viking folder, ensuring “Use Folder Names” remains active so a new texture.VS-30_DiamondCutters_2 directory is generated.
2. Confirm the textures are placed correctly for Microsoft Flight Simulator X or the appropriate Prepar3D version (v2.xx).
3. Update your aircraft.cfg file using the example entry below. Replace “xx” with the subsequent entry number in your own configuration.

Aircraft.cfg Entry

[fltsim.xx]
title=Lockheed S-3B Viking VS-30 Diamond Cutters 2
sim=S-3B
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=VS-30_DiamondCutters_2
kb_checklists=s3b_info
kb_reference=s3b_info
atc_airline=NAVY
atc_flight_number=702
ui_manufacturer=Lockheed
ui_type=S-3B Viking
ui_variation=VS-30 Diamond Cutters 2
description="The Lockheed S-3 Viking is a four-seat twin-engine jet aircraft that was used by the U.S. Navy to identify and track enemy submarines. In the late 1990s, the S-3B's mission focus shifted to surface warfare and aerial refueling. The Viking also provided electronic warfare and surface surveillance capabilities to the carrier battle group. A carrier-based, subsonic, all-weather, multi-mission aircraft with long range, it carried automated weapon systems, and was capable of extended missions with in-flight refueling. Because of the engines low-pitched sound, it was nicknamed the 'Hoover' after the vacuum cleaner brand. The S-3 was retired from front-line fleet service aboard aircraft carriers by the US Navy in January 2009, with its missions being assumed by other platforms such as the P-3C Orion, SH-60 Seahawk, and F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Several examples continue to be flown by Air Test and Evaluation Squadron THREE ZERO (VX-30) at Naval Base Ventura County / NAS Point Mugu, California for range clearance and surveillance operations on the NAVAIR Point Mugu Range, and a single example is operated by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) at the NASA Glenn Research Center."

Developer Credits

This add-on is a repaint only and requires Dino Cattaneo’s freeware “Lockheed S-3B Viking” base package. Be sure to acquire this model, available in the Fly Away Simulation library, before installing this texture set. Credit for this repaint goes to Russel R. Smith, who invested significant effort to recreate the iconic “Diamond Cutters” markings.