F/A-18 V/STOL Super Harriet

[McColm]

With the debate still ragging on as to whether or not to scrap the F-35 and replace it with the F/A-Super Hornet ( updated Super Hornet)  for the A and C models, the US Marines argument is that the Super Hornets can't perform STOL or V/STOL in it's present format.
Studies were undertaken and a test aircraft modified for STOL, whether or not this will be implemented in the next generation of the F/A-18 with conformal fuel tanks is possible.
As for a V/STOL Super Hornet well I'm going to use the  part-built Italeri 1/48 No 2611 F/A-18E.
Using a similar layout to that of the YaK-141 and YaK-38. With a pair of lifting jets located behind the cockpit, the exhaust jet pipes at the rear will need to be changed to . Perhaps a pair of conformal fuel tanks running down the side of the fuselage.
If everything goes to plan I may even build a two seater variant.
The F/A-18 Super Hornet does look good in Royal Navy colours!

[sandiego89]

A departure from your usual large aircraft, good luck!

STOL might be more realistic.  With the main engines so far aft V/STOL nozzles will be tough for a realistic center of lift- even with the lift jets.  Remember lift jets will have terrible ground erosion characteristics.  The Harrier got away with it as it moved tremendous amounts of air at relatively low velocities- turbo jets move lots air at tremendous velocities.     

[McColm]

Thanks for the info

[kitnut617]

Been there and done that, I've got a thread on this forum but as you know --- PB ransom put paid to it

See here though

http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=286.msg2985#msg2985