Airforces

Above: Maj Sullivan (left) and two other active

pilots of VMFA-112 step towards their aircraft.

Right: Return to base for an F/A-18B. This year

all VMFA-112’s B-models are scheduled to be

phased out and replaced by F/A-18C+ jets. Below:

This F/A-18 is about to receive a new engine.

Maintenance is conducted in the VMFA-112 hangar

and also outside under the sun shelters.

54 // OCTOBER 2018 #367 http://www.airforcesmonthly.com

V M FA-112

In a further change, the F/A-18Bs will

be phased out before the end of the year

as they are solely for training proficiency

and are not used for deployments

and don’t have a combat role.

The great advantage of the C+ models is

they are newer airframes and so besides

not having to X-ray them, the amount of

maintenance hours needed to keep them

in the air is expected to reduce. Another

benefit is that these aircraft come directly

from the overhaul depot and are very

well maintained. Also, plenty of parts are

interchangeable between the A++ and the

C+ models – it’s expected that about 75%

of the A++ parts can be cannibalised for use

on the C+. Because the differences between

these two models are minor, maintainers

and pilots don’t need extensive conversion

training to become operational on the C+.

50-55 VMFA112 AFM Oct2018.indd 54 9/10/2018 9:55:51 AM