FSX US Navy F/A-18C Gunslingers CAG

Experience a refined take on the celebrated F/A-18C Hornet in Microsoft Flight Simulator X with this carefully produced Gunslingers CAG repaint by Ray Gagnon. It reflects the distinctive VFA-105 squadron markings, offering a realistic naval aviation visual complete with detailed squadron insignia. Keep in mind, these are textures only, and the core Acceleration F-18 model is required.

Focused Recreation of the F/A-18C “Gunslingers”

This repaint captures the essence of the US Navy VFA-105 unit, often recognized by the “Gunslingers” designation on operational carriers. The original F/A-18C Hornet, introduced in Microsoft Flight Simulator X Acceleration, is already known for its rugged airframe and supreme agility. By layering this high-fidelity repaint over the stock Acceleration Hornet, you can immerse yourself in an authentic Gunslingers simulation, consistent with real-life operations of the squadron.

Developer Behind This Livery

Ray Gagnon, who has long contributed to the flight sim community, meticulously crafted these textures to ensure they align with the Carrier Air Group (CAG) color scheme. His attention to detail is evident in the precise decoration of the vertical stabilizers, fuselage stripes, and distinct numbering that mirrors real naval aircraft paintwork observed on carrier decks.

Key Textural Enhancements

• High-resolution skin depicting the Gunslingers CAG patterns.
• Authentic squadron insignia reflecting the VFA-105 identity.
• Detailed lettering and numbering on fuselage, tail surfaces, and wing tips.
• Compatibility with the default F/A-18 Acceleration cockpit for seamless integration.

Simple Integration Steps

1. Locate and place the texture.gunslingers folder in your existing default Acceleration F-18 directory.
2. Open the aircraft.cfg file for the default F/A-18 in the Acceleration package, then insert the following text. Replace “XX” with the next available entry number.

[fltsim.XX]
title=FA-18 Hornet gun cag
sim=FA-18
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=gunslingers
kb_checklists=boeing_FA18_check
kb_reference=boeing_FA18_ref
atc_id=N400
atc_airline=NAVY
atc_flight_number=400
ui_manufacturer="Boeing"
ui_type="F/A-18"
ui_variation=Gunslingers CAG
ui_typerole=Carrier Based
ui_createdby=repaint by Ray Gagnon
description="The Hornet combines the ruggedness required of carrier-borne aircraft with speed and superior agility, especially at high angles of attack. Its powerful engines, canted vertical stabilizers, horizontal stabilators, large leading- and trailing-edge flaps, and sophisticated flight control system all contribute to a level of performance that makes the Hornet a versatile front-line fighter in several air forces around the world."

Important Base Model Note

This is a repaint-only package and does not include the default Acceleration F-18 base model. Ensure you have the freeware Hornet installed beforehand. If it is not already present, the necessary base model can be acquired from the Fly Away Simulation mod library. Once installed together, you will have a vivid recreation of the VFA-105 color scheme on your newly enhanced F/A-18C.