FSX Golden Dragons F/A-18C Hornet

This repaint faithfully depicts a VFA-192 “Golden Dragons” F/A-18C Hornet for use with the default F/A-18 included in FSX: Acceleration. It is a standalone freeware texture set created by Ray Gagnon, showcasing the squadron’s characteristic markings and distinctive finish. Although the base aircraft is not packaged here, the required model can be found in the Fly Away Simulation library. This repaint aims to recreate the operational flair of the carrier-based Hornet while capturing its precise naval heritage and performance.

Rich Legacy of VFA-192 “Golden Dragons”

VFA-192, known as the “Golden Dragons,” has a storied presence within the US Navy’s strike fighter wings, operating the Hornet series on various deployments. These aircraft serve in both air-to-air and air-to-ground capacities, offering impressive maneuverability and integrated avionics. The striking livery in this repaint emulates the real-world squadron’s vibrant tail art and squadron insignia.

Technical Notes on the Hornet Repaint

Designed to fit the advanced flight envelope of Boeing’s F/A-18, this texture set enhances the default model’s visual fidelity. The innovative design features, such as canted vertical tails and high-lift leading-edge flaps, remain intact. The artwork provided in these textures highlights the aircraft’s strong naval heritage and ensures it stands out in any virtual carrier operation or high-speed maneuvering scenario.

Steps to Integrate the Texture

1. Within your FSX: Acceleration installation directory, open the main folder for the default F/A-18.
2. Paste the newly provided “texture.goldendragons” folder into this directory.
3. Edit the aircraft.cfg file by adding the following entry (replacing “XX” with the next sequential number):

[fltsim.xx]
title=FA-18 golden dragons
sim=FA-18
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=goldendragons
kb_checklists=boeing_FA18_check
kb_reference=boeing_FA18_ref
atc_id=300
atc_airline=NAVY
atc_flight_number=300
ui_manufacturer="Boeing"
ui_type="F/A-18"
ui_variation=Golden Dragons
ui_typerole=Airshow Hornets
ui_createdby="Microsoft Corporation"
description="Repaint by Ray Gagnon. These textures may not be altered in any way or uploaded elsewhere without permission. The Hornet combines carrier-borne durability with excellent maneuverability, especially at high angles of attack."

Developer Credit and Additional Notes

All credit for creating this striking repaint goes to Ray Gagnon. This texture set is freeware and made available for simmers to explore the Golden Dragons’ heritage on their virtual decks. Take note that the base F/A-18 file is not included in this download package and must be acquired separately, from the Fly Away Simulation library, to complete the installation. For enthusiasts of modern naval aviation and vivid squadron markings, this repaint serves as an authentic portrayal of a famed US Navy unit’s operational aircraft.