The F/A-18A Hornet was designed to replace the McDonnell F-4 Phantom and the first production aircraft was delivered to the US Navy in 1980. It was also operated by the US Marines and subsequent versions were bought by the military arms of Australia, Canada, Kuwait, Spain and Switzerland. The total number of Hornets of all versions built is 1,479. The National Aeronautics and Aerospace Administration (NASA) use a small number of the F/A-18A version in the testing of the Active Aeroelastic Wing which it is hoped will improve wing design in the future.

N850NA               c/n 161703                       USA

Single seat research aircraft first flown in 1978

Engines: 2X 16,000lb.s.t.(71kN) GE F404-GE-400                                                                           Length: 56’0"(17.07m)                                                                                     Height: 15’3.5"(4.66m)Wingspan: 37’6"(11.43m)                                                                                              No.built: 380 Range: 2303miles(3706km)                                                             Cruising speed: 650mp(1045kmh) Empty weight: 23,050lb(10,455kg)                                   Maximum take-off weight: 49,224lb(22,328kg)

McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A Hornet Side view 1/144 scale