http://www.airforcesmonthly.com #367 OCTOBER 2018 // 55“We will still fly for some time with the F/A-
18A++ until they die,” GySgt Bryant added.
Not only is VMFA-112 eagerly anticipating
receiving a newer model of the F/A-18, it is
also busy preparing for its next deployment.
This will probably take place next year and
will take it either to the Middle East or the Far
East. Normally the squadron is deployed every
five years and since its last trip was in 2014,
it is ready for it. The unit is usually informed
of being sent overseas a couple of months in
advance, providing plenty of time to plan.
These tours of duty – which typically involve
around a dozen aircraft – help the crews gain
experience and are an excellent opportunity for
the reservists to practise procedures. Another
benefit is that the unit moves up the spare parts
priority list and this increases the serviceability
of the aircraft, which is normally around 50%.
It will be the first and last deployment in
which the squadron will operate both the C+
and A++ models. Maj Sullivan: “I’m looking
forward to flying the F/A-18C+ but the F/A-
18A++ is a great aircraft. I like to think of
these aircraft as ‘classic’ rather than old.”
Although VMFA-112 will fly the F/A-18 for the
next decade its successor is already known.
The F-35B is planned to enter service with
the unit in 2028, but as the production rate
is now gaining speed, this could be sooner.
The infrastructure at NAS JRB Fort Worth
must be changed to accommodate the new
fighter and planning is already under way.
Clearly the ‘Cowboys’ are an exceptional and
unique squadron. Their devotion to keeping
the oldest Hornets in the USMC serviceable
on a restricted budget is remarkable.AFMAbove: A VMFA-112 F/A-18A++ just before take-off. This aircraft is equipped with two AIM-9X Sidewinder
missiles and a pair of drop tanks. The A++ model will be phased out during the next two years. Below:
A locally based C-40A of Fleet Logistics Support Squadron (VR) 59 returns from its mission as this
VMFA-112 F/A-18B prepares to take off. In the background, two F-16s of Air Force Reserve Command’s
301st Fighter Wing are checked before launching.50-55 VMFA112 AFM Oct2018.indd 55 9/10/2018 9:56:10 AM