Permalink: http://www.boeingimages.com/archive/Blue-Angels--F-A-18A-Hornets-Precisely-Parked-2F3XC5YWV8.htmlCopyright © Boeing. All Rights Reserved.View Photo/Video onlyConceptually similarF/A-18E/F Super Hornet on Carrier Launch CatapultBlue Angel F/A-18 Hornet at Pensacola Air ShowF/A-18E/F Super Hornet in Flight Against Blue SkyF/A-18 Hornet Flight LineF/A-18E/F Super Hornet During Carrier-Sea TrialsF/A-18C Hornet at Sea Trials off the USS LincolnBlue Angels F/A-18 Hornets at Pensacola Air ShowBlue Angel F/A-18 Hornet Performs a Flyby at Pensacola AirshowBlue Angels F/A-18A Hornet Performing a Diamond 360View AllView more with similar tones Blue Angels' F/A-18A Hornets Precisely ParkedBuy A Print or License This PhotoWhat Type of Order?Usage:The blue-and-gold paint scheme is immediately recognizable. The heart-stopping aerobatics are famous. ItÆs the Blue Angels, the U.S. NavyÆs squadron of F/A-18 Hornet strike fighters, whose skillful and daring maneuvers win respect around the world. The year 1946 marked the first performance of the Blue Angels, inspired by Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, Chief of Naval Operations. The 17-minute shows were meant to maintain the publicÆs interest in naval aviation after World War II. Shows today are approximately 45 minutes. Six pilots perform 30 exciting maneuvers during each show, never repeating a stunt. Always on the cutting edge of technology, Blue Angels aircraft have transitioned through time. In 1946, they switched from the Grumman F6F Hellcat to the Grumman F8F-1 Bearcat for its increased power. They began using planes with jet engines in 1949 when they flew their first shows with the Grumman F9F-2 Panther. From 1953 to 1956 Blue Angels flew Grumman F9F-8 Cougars, and from 1957 to 1968 flew Grumman F11F-1 Tigers. The versatile McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom took center stage in 1969, followed by the nimble McDonnell Douglas A-4F Skyhawk in 1974. Since 1986, the Blue Angels have been working their magic with Boeing F/A-18A Hornets. BI2656 (c35-1632-878)Maximum size:6000px × 4000px (~68 MB)20.0in × 13.3in (300dpi)License type:Rights ManagedKeywords:2000s-abundance-adults-attack-blue-Blue Angels-canopies-day-exteriors-F/A-18 Hornet-F/A-18A Hornet-fighter/attack-fighters-flight lines-ground shots-jets-military-military livery-military personnel-multirole-nose sections-occupations and work-performers-perspective lines-photos-piloting-pilots-precision-repetition-right side views-several/groups-structural systems-sunshine-tarmac-text-three-quarter length views-viewed from above-vivid color-yellowRelated Photo/Videos:View AllRelated Virtual folders:US Navy Blue Angels