FRCSW Waves Goodbye to Its Final Legacy Aircraft

The F/A-18 Hornet, an iconic aircraft in naval aviation, first took to the skies in the 1980s. This aircraft has seen action in critical military operations, including Operation Desert Storm and the Kosovo War. Among its distinguished fleet, the Hornet designated AQ-99 stands out for its storied operational history. This aircraft not only highlights its importance in naval engagements but also underscores the legacy of FRCSW’s extensive aircraft maintenance program. Ehren Terbeek, FRCSW Tactical Air Program Manager, remarked, “This is monumental for the depot. Many artisans here began their careers working on these aircraft, and it’s a milestone for everyone involved.”

At FRCSW, the maintenance of these legacy aircraft has been nothing short of remarkable. The facility implemented innovative measures like the center barrel replacement, significantly extending the F/A-18’s service life beyond its initial limit of 6,000 flight hours. Some Hornets now exceed 9,000 flight hours. Terbeek emphasizes, “The aircraft is old, so parts were hard to source, and structural repairs were challenging, but our team’s skills and knowledge ensured these aircraft kept flying.” These prolonged efforts have ensured the combat readiness of naval aviation for years.

For FRCSW’s artisans, many of whom are veterans, their craftsmanship is a source of immense pride. With the second-to-last Hornet now in Texas and the final Hornet returning to Miramar, the end of an era feels bittersweet for those whose careers have centered around this iconic aircraft. Reflecting on their work, Terbeek shared, “It was bittersweet knowing we were saying goodbye to an aircraft that defined our work for decades.”

As FRCSW shifts its focus to modern aircraft like the F-35 and the MQ-8 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, the knowledge gained from years of maintaining older aircraft models will continue to guide their future endeavors. Servicing the last F/A-18 Hornet represents both the closing of a significant chapter and a tribute to FRCSW’s historical achievements. The facility’s tradition of excellence persists as they prepare to support the next wave of naval aviation technology.

Fleet Readiness Center Southwest stands as the Navy’s premier West Coast hub for aircraft repair, maintenance, and overhaul, specializing in the Navy and Marine Corps aircraft and their related systems.