Inspired from the many real-world units, VMFA-181 “Tridents” is loosely based upon the US Marine Corps Squadrons that are currently in service. Since there aren’t many real-world units, JTF501 and its 181st Fighter Wing have created a fictional F/A-18C Hornet Squadron. As with the real-world USMC units and their Navy counterparts, VMFA-181 can perform all of the mission roles of the Hornet including CAP, CAS, SEAD, DEAD, STRIKE, and ESCORT. The organizational structure is that of three flights of four aircraft. The pilots of VMFA-181 use the tactical callsign of “TRIDENT”. The Commanding Officer, currently Lt Colonel Ryan “GIXXER” McCurry, is responsible for the tactical readiness of the group and reports up to the Wing Commanding Officer.