Simulated cockpit hardware
F/A-18 Frame
Cockpit structural platform for F/A-18 cockpit simulation systems
A NeoEngress F/A-18 cockpit frame provides a full-metal structure for simulation system integrators to install their functional components and build mission-oriented systems around the assembly.
Customer benefits
The F/A-18 cockpit is densely populated with instruments and control panels. A partitioned metal structure was employed around the real jet's crew station to accommodate the equipment. Even with thin-gauge metal panels for the framework, the space behind the crowded avionics mounting surfaces is often heavily occupied by supporting structures, fastener systems and cabling.
An integrator working on a serious F/A-18 cockpit simulator program may face the same engineering hurdle of discovering and resolving hidden structural conflicts, which adds workload and uncertainty to the verification process.
The NeoEngress cockpit frame addresses such challenges by delivering industrially fabricated modular structures with coated finishes, ready for assembly and integration. The NeoEngress NACES ejection seat offers an additional key component to accelerate the integration process.
Integration outlook
A platform for customer-led integration
View photos of the orderable F/A-18 frame structure. Any panels, switches, indicators, or controls attached to it are not part of the supplied frame. The separate integration reference illustrates what a customer's completed system could look like. For more information about NeoEngress integration work, see the Projects page.
Product status
Engineering maturity
Established structural product
Production basis
Built to order
Configuration basis
Requirements reviewed by inquiry
Product form
Modular subassemblies with selected provisions.
Project fit
Product scope and provisions
The core structure of the NeoEngress F/A-18 cockpit frame consists of a main instrument panel (MIP) section, a nose section in the front, and a crew station section behind it. An optional windshield module sits on top of the MIP and nose sections. All the sections are built and shipped as modular blocks. The NeoEngress NACES ejection seat fits in the middle of the crew station section between two side console structures.
Empty metal enclosures are included as part of the MIP structure for housing avionics instruments such as the HUD block and all the MFDs. All structural parts are also made of metal with a powder coated finish.
For easy access behind the MIP section, the windshield module is not recommended. As an alternative, a steel canopy bow fills the void to maintain the Hornet's distinct visual context.
The instrument panel backplates can be mounted onto the console panels through screws or Dzus fasteners. Customers are normally required to source the Dzus rails and fasteners separately.
Other orderable options include:
- A fixed, floor-based support for customer-selected stick controls;
- An electrically adjustable slide for mounting customer-selected rudder pedals;
- Mounting surface modifications for customer-selected throttle units;
- Blank instrument panel backplates and console top panels, supplied without cutouts for customers to machine their own mounting patterns.
Acquisition
Discuss an F/A-18 build
The frame is built to order and each inquiry is reviewed against the requested structural scope, selected options, project context, quantity and delivery destination. Use the inquiry entry to carry this product context into the next step.