Which of the following is NOT a mission of the Hornet?

• A. Close and deep air support
• B. Suppression of enemy air defense
• C. Deploy from aircraft carriers
• D. Air-to-air refueling

Answer: (D)

The Hornet is a carrier-based multirole aircraft, built to execute missions that directly support combat operations: providing close air support for ground troops and deep strike, and defeating or suppressing enemy air defenses when needed. Operating from aircraft carriers is a core part of its role, allowing naval forces to project air power from the sea.

Air-to-air refueling, while it increases range and endurance, is a support capability rather than a mission. It’s typically performed by tanker aircraft, and while the Hornet can be refueled in flight (and in some configurations may even carry a buddy store to aid others), refueling itself is not a mission the Hornet is designed to execute independently.