The F/A-18 Hornet is the true multi-role aircraft. It can vault from a carrier deck, bomb a target and stay to dogfight even the best enemy aircraft without missing a beat. It's the Navy's first modern-era jet intended for double duty against air- and ground-based adversaries. Armed to the hilt with Sparrow and Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, an internal cannon, and laser-guided bombs, this modern warbird was an outstanding performer in Operation Desert Storm. Strapped into a digital cockpit described as a cross between Star Wars and a video game, pilots of the F/A-18 Hornet take on the ultimate aviation job: blasting this single-seat, high-performance jet off the deck of a carrier, dropping bombs, and firing air-to-ground ordnance. Offering unmatched agility, the Hornet is the choice aircraft of the US Navy's elite Blue Angels aerobatic team.

The F/A-18A is the single-seat variant and the F/A-18B is the two-seat variant. The space for the two-seat cockpit is provided by a relocation of avionics equipment and a 6% reduction in internal fuel; two-seat Hornets are otherwise fully combat-capable. The B-model is used primarily for training.

In 1992, the original Hughes AN/APG-65 radar was replaced with the Hughes (now Raytheon) AN/APG-73, a faster and more capable radar. A-model Hornets that have been upgraded to the AN/APG-73 are designated F/A-18A+.

Pictured here is a gorgeous 1:72 scale diecast replica of a Canadian Boeing CF-18A Hornet Strike Fighter that was attached to the RCAF Demonstration Team, and clad in "Canada Special Markings 2012". Sold Out!

Dimensions:
Wingspan: 7-1/2-inches
Length: 9-inches

Release Date: November 2021

Historical Account: "Peaceful Demonstrations" - The CF-18 Demonstration team represents the aviators of the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) who conduct and support operations at home and around the world every day. Showcasing the abilities of Canada's multi-role fighter through an impressive aerobatic routine, the team attends air shows and conducts flypasts across Canada and the United States.

Every year, a new theme is chosen to highlight important milestones or ideas related to the military, Canada or aviation. This theme is then translated into an impressive paint scheme on the team's CF-18 Demonstration jet and featured throughout the season, raising awareness and building interest amongst audiences in Canada's Air Force.

Demonstration pilots and support teams are chosen every year from operational squadrons and positions across the RCAF to fulfill the team's mission of inspiring and connecting with Canadians and fans around the world.