Basic Flight Training F/A-18C Hornet

Jul 14, 2024

Training Session on Basic Flight Skills of the F/A-18C Hornet

Instructor: Spud

Audience: New DCS World Pilots

Introduction

  • Objective: Teach foundational skills of flying the F/A-18C Hornet, from startup to takeoff, navigation, and systems management.
  • Importance: New pilots often want to jump straight into combat but need to master basic aeronautical skills first.
  • Tools Used:
    • Thrustmaster flight sim peripherals (discount code available).
    • Fox 3 Managed Solutions server (discount code available).
  • Real-world context: Real-life pilots spend a long time learning to fly before learning combat skills.

Key Fundamentals Taught

Startup and Takeoff

  • Startup: Ensuring the aircraft is properly set up for flight.
  • Takeoff Procedure:
    • Activate full afterburner.
    • Start rotating at 100 knots.
    • Nose wheel steering disengagement at 70 knots.
    • Monitoring airspeed (indicator bottoms out at 48 knots).
  • Navigation: Using the heading tape on the HUD.

Climb and Cruise

  • Initial Climb: To 15,000 feet at 350 knots.
  • Gentle Turns: Keep movements smooth, important for formation flying.
  • Auto Throttle: Engaged using the T key, functions as cruise control to maintain airspeed.
  • Autopilot Modes:
    • Barometric Altitude Hold (BALT).
    • Coupled Mode (CPL): Guides aircraft to waypoints.
    • TAC and NAV Blim: Adjusting navigation for smoother course changes.

Basic Weapon Systems Management

Air-to-Ground Master Mode

  • Dumb Bombs (Mark 83):
    • Proper fusing setup (M-Fuse and E-Fuse settings).
    • Using the HUD symbology (fall line and CCIP cross).
  • Fence In: Master arm on, external lights off.
  • Bombing Run: Perform a roll-in maneuver for better dive angles.
  • Egress Maneuver: Climbing and turning to avoid ground threats.

Advanced Navigation and Systems

Targeting Pod Setup

  • Targeting Pod: Using FLIR and its different modes (CCD and thermal).
  • Waypoint Designation: Correcting waypoint elevation and target designation.
  • Precise Targeting: Using the throttle designator controller.
  • Autopilot for Stability: Allows for precise targeting while reducing pilot workload.

Practical Application and Landing Techniques

Landing Preparation

  • Fence Out: Master arm safe, external lights configuration.
  • Course Line Setup (CRS): For runway alignment.
  • Overhead Breaks
    • Maintain 800 feet AGL at 350 knots.
    • Flap handling during breaks.
    • Gear and flaps deployment for landing.
    • Techniques for a smooth final approach (using throttle for altitude and stick for speed).
  • Radar Altimeter: Switching for accurate altitude readings during landing.
  • Jettison Procedures: Emergency and selective store jettisoning.

Fuel Management

FPAS Page

  • Mission Planning: Metrics for fuel usage and optimum range/endurance.
  • Home Waypoint: Adjusting home base waypoint to manage fuel alerts.

Conclusion and Practical Takeaways

  • Landing Demo: Practical demonstration on landing technique stressing the importance of consistent throttle and stick movements for smooth landing.
  • Critical Reminders: Consistent practice on maneuvers, reliance on instruments, and always preparing for both ideal and emergency scenarios.