The
Blue Angels, the U.S. Naval Flight Demonstration Squadron (USNFDS), is a mix of formation flying and solo routines using
F/A-18 Hornets. The pilots perform approximately
30 maneuvers during the aerial demonstration, which runs approximately an hour and 15 minutes.
Demonstration sites are selected to support the objectives of the
Department of Defense and the interest of the armed services with safety as the primary consideration. Performances greatly assist the recruiting and retention goals of the military services, enhance esprit de corps among uniformed men and women, as well as demonstrate the professional skills and capabilities of the armed forces to the American public and U.S. Allies.