The F/A-18D Hornet: Is The Marine Corps Getting What it Paid For?
Abstract
The F/A-18D is one of the most capable strike fighters in the world. However, due to the multitude of missions the Delta aircrew are tasked to fulfill and the associated mission complexities, the greatest limiting factor of the F/A-18D is the aircrew attempting to effectively employ it. The excessive aircraft training requirements associated with the missions assigned to the F/A-18D make it virtually impossible for the aircrew to remain current and proficient in all areas. As with all other Warfighting platforms. The training and readiness Syllabus of the F/A-18D community stresses currency in all assigned mission areas; however, currency does not necessarily equate to proficiency. Issues ranging from ordnance allocation to current squadron manning levels combine to negatively impact training programs which in turn equates to a platform that is employed less than optimally. The Marine Corps should prioritize and reduce the missions assigned to the F/A-18D in order to allow better training efficiency; and, unnecessary requirements such as the ACTI Qualifications and the Air Superiority Aspect of a AAW should be removed. Additionally, training programs should be adjusted to enhance proficiency in order to give the Marine Corps what it paid for with respect to the F/A-18D.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2001
- Accession Number
- ADA401231
Entities
People
- Brian T. Beckwith
Organizations
- Marine Corps University