Originally posted by EagleCAP
Pyro-maniac: Calling the Herc II the AF-19D means that there were 3 versions before it - the AF-19A, AF-19B, and AF-19C. These were probably prototypes that brought the features of the Herc II gradually into the ship. Plus, all that the FS2 tech database says is that the Herc II's additions improve "speed and maneuverability without sacrificing loadout capacity."
It is very rare for an entire hull form to change in 'refits' and 'upgrades'. The Herc II, just by appearance and dimensions, is too radically different from the Herc to be a simple upgrade.
The F-18 is not a good example to use as the form of the vehicle remains basically the same. Sure, you have a few stretches here and there, but that's about it.
If all you use is "speed and maneuverability without sacrificing loadout capacity" as a justification, then you might as well say that the Perseus is a simple upgrade of the Valkyrie.
By your logic, the Corsair II should have been named the Crusader II. Both aircraft look superficially the same (indeed, the Corsair was derived from the Crusader) but make no mistake: both aircraft are quite different beasts.
I wonder what would have happened if the Herc II had been named something else, hm?
