Why did Top Gun make the switch? In the iconic Top Gun franchise, the eponymous F-35 fighter jets make way for the F/A-18 Super Hornets in the much-awaited sequel. The reason behind this intriguing switch is not as controversial or complicated as one might think.
Introducing F/A-18 Super Hornets – The F/A-18, also known as ‘Super Hornet’, is a twin-engine, supersonic, all-weather, carrier-capable, multirole combat jet, designed by McDonnell Douglas and Northrop. This trusted beast flaunts remarkable versatility in carrying out both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
In stark contrast, the trendy F-35 is a more tech-savvy, stealth-combat aircraft, popular for its high-tech sensors and the ability to penetrate enemy defense systems undetected.
So, why did Top Gun favor the F/A-18 over the high-tech F-35?
Simplicity and Practicality – The underlying reason is simple. The F/A-18s are the jets the film’s real-life counterparts, the U.S. Navy’s TOPGUN instructors, actually fly. Moreover, the Super Hornet is less costly and comparably reliable and versatile. These factors lent a hand in the decision-making process.
Moreover, Accessible Authorization – The Department of Defense is more agreeable to Hollywood using F/A-18s, which aren’t as sensitive from a technological standpoint as the F-35. This decisively contributed to the F/A-18 bagging the role.
The creative decision of the Top Gun team predicates requisite practicality and authenticity. So, now when you watch Top Gun, you’ll look at the F/A-18 Super Hornets with a newfound awe!
Discover Why Top Gun Favors the F/A-18 Super Hornets Over F-35
In the first installment of the Top Gun franchise, the iconic F-35 fighter jets carved a niche for themselves. However, in the highly anticipated sequel, these sophisticated jets gave way to the F/A-18 Super Hornets. The reasoning behind this transition is not quite as controversial or complex as some may believe.
F/A-18 Super Hornets: Rugged and Versatile
The F/A-18, often called the ‘Super Hornet’, is a twin-engine, supersonic, all-weather, carrier-capable, multirole combat jet. Designed by eminent companies McDonnell Douglas and Northrop, this indomitable jet stands out for its commendable versatility in executing both air-to-air and air-to-ground operations.
A stark contrast to the Super Hornet is the modern F-35, known for being an advanced, stealth-combat aircraft. The F-35 stands out due to its cutting-edge sensors and its capability to breach enemy defense systems without detection. So what motivated Top Gun to prefer the F/A-18 over the technically advanced F-35?
Pure Simplicity and Practicality
The answer boils down to simplicity. The F/A-18s are actually the set of jets flown by the Navy’s TOPGUN instructors, who are the real-life basis for the film’s characters. Additionally, the Super Hornet’s lower costs, trustworthiness, and adaptability inspired the film’s production team to opt for this aircraft.
Obtaining Authorization is Easier
Further, approval from the Department of Defense to utilize F/A-18s for cinematic purposes is easier. This is due to the aircraft being technologically less sensitive compared to the F-35. This point considerably influenced the authorities favoring the F/A-18 for its starring role.
This variation in the Top Gun series exemplifies a compromise between optimum practicality and authenticity. Hence, watching the F/A-18 Super Hornets whip through the sky in the next Top Gun film might evoke a unique sense of awe due to the nuanced understanding of their selection.
