Posted on 04/05/2010 9:23:35 PM PDT by ErnstStavroBlofeld
RESIDENTS living near Evans Head are already used to seeing pigs fly, and soon they’ll be able to see a rhino do the same
Five F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jets, known affectionately as ‘rhinos’, recently arrived in Australia to replace the aging F-111 fleet, nicknamed ‘the pig’, because of their hunting ability.
With the Super Hornets based at RAAF Amberley south of Brisbane, the new combat jets are expected to make use of the Evans Head bombing range for training exercises.
For some residents near the range, it is now a case of keeping their eyes to the skies as they try to spot a glimpse of a ‘rhino’.
Woodburn resident and self confessed plane fanatic Joe Celich said he heard jet engines roar above him as he played bowls on the weekend.
However, he wasn’t sure if it was an F-111 or the new Super Hornet, though he figured the new planes might already be getting some air time.
“I think since they got the new planes they’re practising,” he said.
“But I haven’t seen them. I don’t know how much different they look.
“I am dying to see them.”
The new Super Hornets are the first new combat aircraft for the Air Force in 25 years, and will replace the F-111.
The F-111has been a stalwart of the RAAF since 1973, and is expected to be retired by December this year.
(Excerpt) Read more at northernstar.com.au ...
Only the B-52 is the only plane(that I know of) that use a FT 50/50 blend.One is the use of natural gas, comprising mostly methane, as a feedstock to produce synthesis gas. The technique was pioneered by the Syntroleum company, based in the US. The Gas To Liquids (GTL) process involves the partial oxidation, steam reforming or some combination of these two processes to convert natural gas and air into synthesis gas feedstock.
It’s nice that the Super Hornets get to use it, but if they deny use to the Killer Bees, it’s discrimination.
As much as I loved variable geometry, it obviously is harder on the airframe than fixed wing.
The Super-Hornet is a heck of an MRF milcraft. A seafaring F-16 with a bit more in her bloomers, she is probably he 3rd best milcraft deployed today, and the 1st best in her role as a true naval MRF.
Click on pic for past Navair pings.
Post or FReepmail me if you wish to be enlisted in or discharged from the Navair Pinglist.
The only requirement for inclusion in the Navair Pinglist is an interest in Naval Aviation.
This is a medium to low volume pinglist.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.