McDonnell Douglas
McDonnell Douglas F/A-18B Hornet
The McDonnell Douglas F/A‑18B Hornet is the two‑seat “B” variant of the iconic carrier‑based strike fighter that entered service in the early 1980s. Developed jointly by McDonnell Douglas and Northrop as a replacement for the A‑7 Corsair II and F‑4 Phantom II, the Hornet first flew on 29 May 1978 and was delivered to the U.S. Navy in 1983. The F/A‑18B combines air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground capabilities, featuring a twin‑engine, low‑observable airframe, fly‑by‑wire controls, and a digital multilayered avionics suite that includes the AN/APG‑73 radar and heads‑up display. Its supersonic performance, robust landing gear, and reinforced structure enable operations from aircraft carriers and austere forward bases. The aircraft’s versatility is highlighted by its ability to carry a wide range of missiles, precision‑guided bombs, and external fuel tanks, while retaining excellent maneuverability in dogfights. Throughout its service life the Hornet has seen action in Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and countless NATO exercises, establishing a reputation for reliability and adaptability. The F/A‑18B set the standard for modern multirole combat jets and paved the way for its successor, the F‑35 Lightning II, cementing McDonnell Douglas’s legacy in naval aviation.
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Classification
Design & Classification
- Manufacturer
- McDonnell Douglas
- Nickname
- Hornet
- Military Designation
- TF-18A
- Wikidata ID
- Q17486159