Dozens of F-18 Hornet Fighter Jets Equipped with Terrifying Missiles Arrive in the Philippines

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Dozens of F-18 Hornet Fighter Jets Equipped with Terrifying Missiles Arrive in the Philippines
U.S. Marines from VMFA-232 Arrive at Philippine Air Base with AIM-120C Equipped F/A-18 HornetsThe Philippines has once again received the arrival of U.S. Marine aviation assets following the deployment of Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 232 to one of its air bases under a rotational assignment. This deployment brings additional air capability through F/A-18 Hornet fighter aircraft equipped with AIM-120C air-to-air missiles, one of the modern weapons systems used in air superiority missions.VMFA-232 is part of Marine Aircraft Group 12 (MAG-12), under the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, and departed from Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar, California. This deployment is part of the Unit Deployment Program (UDP)—a routine rotation program that provides operational experience and mission readiness for units operating in the Indo-Pacific region.The deployment of VMFA-232 aims to bolster the air component of MAG-12 already positioned in the region. By bringing F/A-18 Hornets equipped with AIM-120C missiles, the squadron is ready to conduct a wide range of operations, including air patrols, tactical air defense, and combined training exercises with partner nations.The AIM-120C is a medium-range, high-precision missile capable of striking targets beyond visual range (BVR). With advanced guidance and integrated avionics on the Hornet, this missile provides pilots with superior capabilities in open-air engagements and complex air combat scenarios.The arrival of VMFA-232 in the Philippines also reinforces bilateral defense cooperation.