FSX Spanish Air Force EF-18B 12-74 CLAEX

This freeware repaint offers a detailed depiction of the Spanish Air Force’s EF-18B “12-74 CLAEX,” modeled for Microsoft Flight Simulator X. It includes the authentic color scheme, specific markings used by Ala 12 at Torrejón Air Base, and reflects the special tests/evaluation role of CLAEX (Centro Logístico de Armamento y Experimentación). Created by Antonio Diaz, this texture requires the payware F-18 Xload package by Captain Sim & Dave (Dax) Sweetman, which must be obtained separately.

Historical Notes on the Spanish EF-18B Platform

The Spanish Air Force designates its Hornet fleet as the EF-18 series (derived from the McDonnell Douglas/Boeing F/A-18 Hornet). Over the years, Ala 12 has flown these twin-engined fighters extensively, carrying out various defense and test missions. Within CLAEX, specialized tasks often involve evaluation flights and weapons trials. This repaint captures the characteristic markings used for those experimental missions.

Visual Highlights and In-Game Representation

The texture set has been meticulously tailored for the dual-seat configuration (EF-18B), which accurately represents a trainer or evaluation model. From the nose art to the stenciling across the fuselage, each element reflects the operational scheme found on the real “12-74 CLAEX” airframe. This level of detail enhances immersion for virtual pilots who want an accurate portrayal of Spanish Air Force procedures within the simulator.

Texture Configuration Details

The following configuration snippet provides an overview of the necessary entries in your aircraft.cfg file. Replace “XX” with the next appropriate sequential number:

[fltsim.XX]
title=CS F18D Ala12 12-74 CLAEX
sim=FA-18
model=d
panel=
sound=
texture=12-74_CLAEX
kb_checklists=boeing_FA18_check
kb_reference=boeing_FA18_ref
atc_id=200
atc_airline=Navy
atc_flight_number=200
ui_manufacturer="Boeing"
ui_type="EF-18B"
ui_variation=12-74_CLAEX
ui_typerole="Twin Engined Fighter"
ui_createdby="Captain Sim & Dave (Dax) Sweetman"
description=

Important Requirements

• This package features only the external textures and does not include the base model.
• To enjoy this repaint, Captain Sim’s F-18 Xload payware add-on is necessary (purchase separately from your preferred payware outlet).

Authors to Acknowledge

Repaint Designer: Antonio Diaz

Payware Model Creators: Captain Sim & Dave (Dax) Sweetman

Key Installation Steps

• Acquire and install the payware F-18 Xload package.
• Unzip this repaint into the correct “Captain Sim” texture folder within your simulator’s directory.
• Copy and paste the above aircraft.cfg entries under the appropriate sections, ensuring the “[fltsim.XX]” index matches subsequent entries.
• Confirm that all texture references align correctly before launching Microsoft Flight Simulator X.

Remarks on Real-World Operations

Ala 12, stationed at Torrejón Air Base, has been integral to the defense and operational readiness of the Spanish Air Force for decades. Their EF-18B two-seaters often serve in advanced pilot training scenarios, as well as specialized trials under the CLAEX program. This repaint recreates that environment for simmers seeking a realistic Spanish fighter experience.