STRIKE FIGHTER SQUADRON ONE ZERO SIX

Strike Fighter Squadron One Zero Six (VFA-106) serves Virtual Carrier Air Wing 17 as the Fleet Replacement Squadron (FRS) for the F/A-18C Legacy Hornet. VFA-106 is responsible for the indoctrination and training of Student Naval Aviators (Pilots) before their assignment to a Fleet Squadron. The FRS ensures that all aviators are prepared to handle the complexities of flying and operating the F/A-18C in a variety of mission scenarios.

Syllabus Structure

The VFA-106 syllabus for SNAs is divided into Core Skills (CS) and Weapon Systems (WS) flights. The training spans 9 flights, with 5 flights dedicated to core skills and 4 flights focusing on weapon systems. Ideally, students complete the syllabus over a 4-week period, attending two flight nights per week. However, learning is self-paced, and no set time requirement is imposed for the completion of the FRS syllabus.

Core Skills (CS) Flights

The CS flights focus on mastering the fundamentals of flying the F/A-18C, including:

• Basic airmanship and formation flying.

• Air-to-air refueling.

• Carrier operations under both day (CASE I) and night (CASE III) conditions.

These flights ensure that students gain proficiency in foundational skills critical for mission readiness and operations.

Weapon Systems (WS) Flights

The WS phase introduces students to the tactical use of the F/A-18C’s weapons and sensors. Training includes:

• Delivery of general-purpose, JDAM, and laser-guided bombs.

• Execution of Beyond Visual Range (BVR) and Within Visual Range (WVR) combat.

Each WS flight is designed to build confidence and skill in employing the Hornet’s full arsenal in both offensive and defensive scenarios.

Training Philosophy

Training in VFA-106 is designed to simulate real-world Navy operations while maintaining a focus on fun and learning. Instructor Pilots mentor students through each flight, ensuring a strong grasp of essential concepts and practical application. The FRS provides both the syllabus and the learning materials needed to accomplish the flights. Students are expected to review the syllabus and presentations before flights and practice areas of improvement independently. Each flight builds on previous lessons, culminating in operational readiness.

Graduation and Fleet Assignment

Graduates of VFA-106 demonstrate competence across all syllabus areas and are assigned to VFA-34, where they continue honing their skills in an operational environment. Successful completion of the syllabus is a milestone that prepares pilots to excel as integral members of Virtual Carrier Air Wing 17.