You know, seeing the F/A-18 airframe without an armament load and fuel tanks makes it possible to see that it might have a bit more of the Ol' Tomcat look in its design that I thought.
Still a huge compromise and no one will ever convince it is not a considerable step backwards, less speed, range, and pay load.IMHO we were robbed by the powers that be.
If I remember the day there were clouds to the left and bright sunshine and blue sky to the right, and yes I think the runway was reflecting the light.