Greetings. New user here, been lurking for about 3-4 months.

I'm an FA-18 pilot by trade, and am currently on DIFDEN orders doing the FAC thing.

I've got a little over 1000 hours total, roughly 800 in the Hornet, but I haven't flown in 2 years. I plan on getting out next year, but likely will not be able to get back in the cockpit before I get out.

I assume that the major's are not an option yet, and that I'll have to build up some more hours in the RJ's. I also assume that even though I have enough hours for any of the RJ's, my lack of currency will limit me to just a couple of the regional lines given my current status.

Is this correct?

I'm looking at going into the guard or reserve to pick up an easy (as opposed to paying for it) 100 hours to get current as a first choice to give me options to at least apply to a desirable regional line, with the goal of picking up enough hours in the RJ to apply for the majors. Is there a better route you would recommend for gaining currency, if it is needed?

I've seen the military conversion calculator here, but it seems geared towards the heavies. Am I underestimating my options? Does the 800 Hornet hours buy me anything in regards to PIC time, total time, etc? From doing a search here, it looks like I can add .2 or .3 per sortie, depending on airline, to meet the minimums.

Also, is the 1500 hour requirement for the ATP a hard requirement, or does the military conversion count towards that?

Thanks in advance