Hornet

The F/A-18 is designed as an all weather fighter and attack aircraft. It was the nation's first strike fighter. Hornets are operating in 37 tactical squadrons world-wide. It is also flown by the U.S. Navy’s Blue Angles demonstration team.

In its fighter mode, The Hornet is used primarily as a fighter escort and for fleet air defense. In its attack mode, it is used for force projection, interdiction, and close and deep air support.

The Hornet used its capabilities during Operation Dessert Storm, shooting down enemy fighters and bombing enemy targets with the same plane in the same mission. It also broke all the records for tactical aircraft in viability, reliability, and maintainability.

The F/A-18 is a twin engine, multi-mission tactical aircraft. The F/A-18 A and C are signal seaters. The F/A-18 B and D are dual seaters. The B model is used mainly for training. The E and F models, witch is the newest aircraft was tested on Sept. 17, 1995. They are undergoing testing at the Patuxent Naval Airstation in Maryland. The E is a signal seat while the F has a crew of 2. The C and D models were improved to become night fighters.

The Hornets first flight was November 1972.