Boeing F/A-18E Super Hornet

@ Virginia Beach, VA May 2012 A F/A-18E Super Hornet of the VFA-31 “Tomcatters”, based at NAS Oceana, on the flightline during an ISAP photo shoot.  This is the CAG’s (Commander Air Group) “color bird”, usually each squadron will have one aircraft painted in the squadron colors. This particular livery celebrated the squadron’s 75th anniversary, the Tomcatters are the second oldest Navy Fighter Attack squadron operating today.  Designed and initially produced by McDonnell Douglas, the Super Hornet first flew in 1995.  Compared to the C/D version of the Hornet, this aircraft’s wing is 25% bigger, carries 33% more fuel, has 41% better mission range, 35% more thrust, and 50% more endurance.  600 Super Hornets have been delivered to the U.S. Navy and Royal Australian Air Force.  Nikon D7000 w/18-200mm.