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| The full line up of VF-154 on February 5, 2016, at NAS Miramar. AK-300 to AK-303. |
The Black Knights are one of the three carrier based fighter squadrons nesting at Miramar and they were originally assigned Super Hornets. Much as we would like to keep an active F-18 squadron the reality is manufacturers have so far not answered US Navy SL requirements in place at NAS Miramar, preventing the correct display of each aircraft identity.
Aesthetics aside, to have unique liveries, which display not only the aircraft unique BuNo but also the squadron ID and insignia - sometimes even the Aviator's - is a great visual aid when flying and, on a more personal note, nothing puts me off more than a formation of 3 or more exactly similar aircraft with no distinction whatsoever. It's just not good.
After weeks of waiting and researching, I decided to submit Jade's Shana Carpool powered Douglas TA-4 J Skyhawk dual place to the consideration of VF-154 Sqdrn. CO and that of our senior engineer officer. After trials, and having established that the livery can be changed to meet our requirements, I have decided to park the F/A-18 F’s and F/A-18 C’s and equip the Black Knights with the TA-4 J.
An initial batch of 4 has been ordered, BuNo's 16028, 16029. 16030 and 16031.
The bird was also a constant at the real life Miramar, much more so than the F-18, so in a way, poetic justice was exacted. We will, however, keep pursuing the objective of having a fully operational Super Hornet squadron at Miramar.
CDR. Asra Kron
NASMCO
Note: See Douglas TA-4 J Skyhawk 'Lover Boy' for details.
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