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Doug \Woody\ and Erin Beal · March 26th 06, 10:54 PM posted to rec.aviation.military.naval

On 3/26/06 12:52 PM, in article
, "
wrote:
But is it so simple now, in the times of Fleet Response Plan?

Actually, the F/A-18E/F FRSes (VFA-122 or VFA-106) get the first Super
Hornets with markings of those new squadrons (VF becoming VFA) some
weeks before the squadron is back from their last F-14 deployment.
Right, those birds are formally assigned to the FRS then. But later on,
when the cruise ends, the squadron has to remain in readiness for any
surge deployments for some time.

For example, when VF-11 and VF-143 returned from ther last Tomcat
deployment, F/A-18E/Fs with VFA-11 or VFA-143 markings were already
flying, but F-14Bs were still seen at Oceana, as the "surge deployment
readiness" asset.

So, sorry, but this is still unclear to me - which were the real
squadron staffs - these still flying Tomcats, or those already
transitioning to Rhinos? I guess the latter was finally replacing the
former, so indeed, not all aviators were transitioning...

Kind regards,
Jacek

Jacek,

Strictly case by case.

When a squadron transitions, just as you noted, the whole squadron goes
through the FRS for the CAT-2 syllabus.

For instance, if they're returning from deployment, their senior Department
Heads and JO's will rotate out to their follow-on assignments. Some of them
will end up transitioning through an FRA instructor tour.

The remainder of the squadron will stay for the transition, complete the FRS
together, pick up their new CAT-1 pilots and WSO's, and continue to a
follow-on deployment or sustainment.

There's no set formula though.

--Woody