Buyer guide / Cost planning
How Much Does a Full F/A-18C Cockpit Simulator Cost?
A practical breakdown of the two ways to build a full-scale Hornet cockpit: a modular hardware package from $9,499, or a commissioned turn-key system ranging from $25,000–$50,000+.
The short answer
A serious full-scale F/A-18C cockpit can begin with a $9,499 modular hardware package. Core Dogfight Dynamics turn-key commissions typically range from $25,000–$35,000; premium systems with advanced equipment, logistics, and white-glove installation commonly range from $35,000–$50,000+.
The right number depends less on the shell alone than on what “complete” means for your mission. Displays, flight controls, computing, audio, haptics, finish, shipping, and on-site commissioning can each change the final specification.
01 / Cost paths
Two credible ways into a full cockpit.
Modular hardware
$9,499Hornet Package
The complete Dogfight Dynamics structural hardware set: flight chassis, ejection seat, main instrument panel, both side consoles, canopy bow, and HUD. Add the controls, displays, electronics, and computer that fit your build.
Explore the Hornet PackagePrivate commission
$25K–$50K+Turn-key system
A complete cockpit planned as one system. We align structure, controls, displays, computing, software, cable management, assembly, and calibration around your room and requirements.
Plan a turn-key systemPrices are in USD and represent current planning ranges. Final quotes depend on specification, destination, and installation requirements.
02 / Cost drivers
What changes the final price?
Controls
Stick, throttle, pedals, replica panels, gauges, and interface hardware vary substantially by manufacturer and level of fidelity.
Displays
Instrument screens, external visuals, mounts, and the choice between monitors, projection, or VR shape both cost and room planning.
Computing
DCS performance targets, display resolution, peripherals, networking, and future upgrade headroom determine the computer specification.
Physical feedback
Audio, transducers, and an optional D-BOX haptic system add another layer of feedback and integration.
Finish and integration
Lighting, upholstery, cable management, control mapping, software setup, and testing turn individual products into one cockpit.
Delivery and commissioning
Freight is product- and destination-specific. White-glove travel, on-site assembly, configuration, and handoff are quoted separately when needed.
03 / Example budgets
Budget for the system you actually want.
Builders expanding an existing rig one structural element at a time.
Pilots who want the full Dogfight Dynamics structure and will integrate their preferred electronics.
Clients who want one planned, assembled, configured, and tested cockpit system.
Clients adding advanced controls, displays, expanded engineering, dedicated logistics, and white-glove installation.
Planning principle
Start with the mission, not the parts list.
A focused VR training cockpit and a multi-display showpiece can share the same structure while requiring very different integration budgets. Define the room, visual system, controls, and support level first.
04 / FAQ
Full cockpit cost questions.
How much is the complete Dogfight Dynamics Hornet Package?
The modular Hornet Package is currently $9,499. It includes the core Dogfight Dynamics cockpit structure and replica hardware, but not the complete set of controls, displays, computing, or on-site installation required for a turn-key system.
What is included in a turn-key commission?
Core specifications can include cockpit hardware, selected controls and displays, computing, cabling, software configuration, assembly, calibration, and testing. Premium commissions may also include advanced equipment, dedicated transportation, and white-glove onsite installation.
Is shipping included?
No single shipping price applies to every build. Modular products use the applicable fixed Shopify shipping rates. Complete systems, freight, and white-glove travel or on-site work are confirmed in the project quote.
Can I start small and expand later?
Yes. The Dogfight Dynamics platform is modular. You can begin with a panel, console, chassis, or complete hardware package and add compatible components as the build develops.