Blue Angels F/A-18 Returns to NAS Jacksonville Main Gate

The iconic jet underwent a two-month refurbishment before being reinstalled at the base's entrance.

Apr. 19, 2026 at 1:54am

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An extreme close-up of the shiny, metallic surface of the Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet jet, showcasing the intricate details and vibrant colors of the aircraft's freshly refurbished paint job.The iconic Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet stands tall at the entrance of Naval Air Station Jacksonville, a symbol of the base's proud aviation history.Today in Jacksonville

The U.S. Navy announced that the Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet jet, which typically stands guard at the main gate of Naval Air Station Jacksonville, has returned to its post after a more than two-month long refurbishment period. The jet saw a complete overhaul in paint and corrosion during the 70-day refurbishment process.

Why it matters

The Blue Angels F/A-18 is an iconic symbol of NAS Jacksonville, as the base is considered the birthplace of the Navy's famous fighter demonstration squadron. The jet's return to its prominent position at the main gate is an important milestone for the base and the local community.

The details

Crews with Fleet Readiness Center Southeast towed the F/A-18 back down Yorktown Avenue from their paint shop, placing the aircraft on its pad - which was also recently redone - at the front of the Yorktown Gate on Roosevelt Boulevard. The refurbishment process included a complete overhaul of the jet's paint and corrosion.

  • The Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet returned to its post at the NAS Jacksonville main gate on April 19, 2026.
  • The jet underwent a more than two-month long refurbishment period, lasting approximately 70 days.

The players

Naval Air Station Jacksonville

A U.S. Navy installation located in Jacksonville, Florida, and the birthplace of the Navy's famous Blue Angels fighter demonstration squadron.

Blue Angels

The U.S. Navy's flight demonstration squadron, known for their precision aerial maneuvers performed in F/A-18 Hornet aircraft.

Fleet Readiness Center Southeast

A U.S. Navy organization responsible for the maintenance and refurbishment of aircraft, including the Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet.

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The takeaway

The return of the iconic Blue Angels F/A-18 Hornet to its prominent position at the main gate of NAS Jacksonville is a symbolic moment for the base and the local community, reinforcing the strong connection between the Navy's fighter demonstration squadron and its historic roots in the city.