The F-18 Hornet is a twin engine supersonic all weather carrier capable multirole combat jet designed for both fighter and attack missions. Developed by McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing), the Hornet emerged as one of the most versatile combat aircrafts in modern military aviation.

Variants

F-18A

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

Specs
Engine typeGE F404
Length56ft/ 17.07m
Height40.4ft/ 12.31m
Wingspan15.4ft/ 4.7m
Seats1/2

F-18C

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 typeGE F404
Length56ft/ 17.07m
Height40.4ft/ 12.31m
Wingspan15.4ft/ 4.7m
Seats1/2

F-18E

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 typeGE F404
Length60.1ft/ 18.32m
Height44.7ft/ 13.62m
Wingspan16ft/ 4.9m
Seats1/2

F-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 typeGE F404
Length60ft/ 18.29m
Height44.7ft/ 13.62m
Wingspan16ft/ 4.9m
Seats1