| F/A Hornet |
| Type: F-18A Function: fighter / attack Crew: 1 Year: 1980 Engines: 2 * 7250kg GE F404-GE-400 Max.Weight: 22317 kg Max. Speed: 2125 km/h Ceiling: 15250 m Max. Range: 3670 km Armament: 1*g20mm 7700 kg Unit cost: 32 million USD |
| Twin-engined shipboard fighter, developed from the smaller F-17. Because of its dual role as attack aircraft, it is officially known as the F/A-18. The F-18 is a medium-sized fighter, heavier than the F-16 but lighter than the F-14 and F-15. The RF-18 is a recce version, without the internal gun and with cameras in the nose. The USN planned to replace a lot of combat aircraft by the multifunctional F/A-18. The F-18 has also been sold abroad, to Canada, Australia, Spain, and others. Current planning is for a substantially modified F-18E 'Super Hornet', which was rolled out at the end of 1995 and made its first carrier landing in early 1997. This F-18E and the two-seat F-18F can be recognized easily by their rectangular engine intakes, which reduced radar reflection and provide a greater mass flow for their more powerful engines. The F-18E is also longer and has a bigger wing, with two additional hardpoints, and has sturdier landing gear to cope with the increased weight. Range has been increased by 40%. The F-18E is expected to enter service in 2000. |
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