Quote:
Originally Posted by Gun Grape
The F-18 option can launch with the strike package.
It can also self protect.
Another advantage of the F-18 is that any F-18 in any squadron can strap on the Buddy tank system and become a tanker.
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All good points, I appreciate your responses, you've officially convinced me that the SH tanker is a very capable tanker platform.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Gun Grape
The S-3 is an old airframe and will be gone by 2009.
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Ya, I guess one of the reasons I have always considered the Viking a great refueling plane is that I just love the plane. A great multi role airframe, with anti-submarine, anti-surface, attack, surveillance, and tanking all on its resume. And all of that off of the decks of aircraft carriers. I will be sad to see it leave, I believe it's already gone from the Pacific fleet squadrons. It leaves the carriers with only Sea Hawks for anti-submarine protection, which I find a little sketchy. Although I believe the Viking has not performed the anti-submarine role for years.