FSX US Navy F/A-18C Hornet

This repaint set provides a distinctive VAQ-132 “Scorpions” CAG livery for the default F/A-18C Hornet in Microsoft Flight Simulator X Acceleration. Created by Ray Gagnon, it delivers an authentic US Navy theme that highlights the squadron’s proud heritage. This package contains only texture files, so the original freeware model must be downloaded from Fly Away Simulation’s library before adding these custom markings.

Striking Scorpions Livery with Naval Flair

This repaint emulates the actual “Scorpions” CAG insignia, which features a bold color scheme and detailed tail markings. The US Navy F/A-18C Hornet itself is known for its twin-engine setup, multi-role capabilities, and capacity to launch from aircraft carriers under a variety of conditions. In real-world operations, the Hornet supports air-to-air missions and ground attack duties, embodying exceptional agility at elevated angles of attack.

Key Attributes of This Repaint

• Accurate Color Patterns: Reflects the CAG-designated patterns of the VAQ-132 Scorpions with precision.
• Detailed Tail Markings: Incorporates the scorpion emblem, squadron designators, and correct alpha channel for realistic metallic and matte contrasts.
• Enhanced Visuals: Utilizes high-resolution graphics tailored to the default Acceleration F-18 model within the simulator.
• Authentic Tactical Identity: Maintains the unique call signs and identification features used by the US Navy for carrier-based operations.

Steps to Integrate the Textures

Follow these steps to ensure seamless setup of the repaint:

1. Extract and place the included texture folder labeled “scorpions” into the main directory of the default Acceleration F/A-18 Hornet.
2. Open the aircraft configuration file (aircraft.cfg) in the same folder. Locate the existing [fltsim] sections and add the additional lines shown below. Change the “XX” to the next available sequence number.

[fltsim.XX]
title=FA-18 Scorpions cag
sim=FA-18
model=
panel=
sound=
texture=scorpions
kb_checklists=boeing_FA18_check
kb_reference=boeing_FA18_ref
atc_id=N540
atc_airline=Navy
atc_flight_number=540
ui_manufacturer="Boeing"
ui_type="F/A-18"
ui_variation=VAQ-132 Scorpions 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."

Essential Notes

Freeware Status

This repaint is provided at no cost, created by Ray Gagnon, and is intended solely for flight simulation enthusiasts.

Base Aircraft Requirement

You must already have the default F/A-18 Hornet from the Acceleration expansion installed (available in Microsoft Flight Simulator X) along with the freeware base model from the Fly Away Simulation library.

Sierra Hotel Repaint

The rich livery faithfully depicts the VAQ-132 “Scorpions” squadron’s iconic imagery while retaining the fighter’s operational details.