F-18 Hornet

The Boeing F/A-18 Hornet and its successor, the Super Hornet, are the versatile workhorses of naval aviation, designed to perform an exhaustive array of missions from the deck of an aircraft carrier. Originally conceived as a lightweight complement to the F-14 Tomcat, the Hornet's "F/A" designation (Fighter/Attack) perfectly encapsulates its dual-role DNA. Known for its exceptional high-alpha maneuverability and rugged carrier-landing capabilities, the Hornet revolutionized the "glass cockpit" concept and digital flight controls. The larger, more capable F/A-18E/F Super Hornet has since replaced both the original Hornet and the Tomcat, providing the U.S. Navy with a sophisticated, network-centric strike fighter platform capable of dominating both the air and sea.

F-18A

F/A-18A Hornet — Photo credit: Ethan Ferro — @ferritoaviation

The original Hornet model introduced in the 1980s. The F/A-18A is the single-seat version while the F/A-18B is the twin-seat variant (mainly trainer). These were designed as versatile carrier-capable multirole fighters, excelling in air-to-air combat and strike missions.

Specs
Engine type	GE F404
Length	56 ft / 17.7 m
Height	40.4 ft / 12.31 m
Wingspan	15.4 ft / 4.7 m
Seats	1/2

F-18C

F/A-18C Hornet — Photo credit: Ethan Ferro — @ferritoaviation

Upgraded versions of the A/B with improved avionics, radar, and weapons systems. The F/A-18C is single-seat, while the F/A-18D is the two-seat variant often used for training and specialized missions. These models remained frontline US Navy fighters through the 2000s.

Specs
Engine type	GE F404
Length	56 ft / 17.7 m
Height	40.4 ft / 12.31 m
Wingspan	15.4 ft / 4.7 m
Seats	1/2

F-18E

F/A-18E Super Hornet — Photo credit: Ethan Ferro — @ferritoaviation

A major redesign and stretch of the original Hornet, introduced in the late 1990s. The F/A-18E is single-seat, and the F/A-18F is two-seat. These have larger airframes, more powerful engines, increased range, and advanced avionics, serving as the US Navy's primary strike fighter today.

Specs
Engine type	GE F404
Length	60.1 ft / 18.32 m
Height	44.7 ft / 13.62 m
Wingspan	16 ft / 4.9 m
Seats	1/2

E/A-18G

An electronic warfare variant based on the F/A-18F Super Hornet airframe. The Growler specializes in jamming enemy radar and communications, providing critical support for strike packages and enhancing survivability of strike forces.

Specs
Engine type	GE F404
Length	60 ft / 18.29 m
Height	44.7 ft / 13.62 m
Wingspan	16 ft / 4.9 m
Seats	1