Boeing F-18 RAAF Royal Australian Air Force

General Product Description

Our PlaneArt Boeing F-18 RAAF Royal Australian Air Force model exhibits unique, unrivaled quality and detailed design to come as close as possible to the accuracy of the actual plane. It comes as standard with a robust, durable base or stand which is available in a variety of different finishes designed to match your own personal requirements including solid wood, wood with polished metal supports or adjustable wood wall mount and will be ready within about 9-10 weeks from placement of order.

The Boeing F-18 RAAF Royal Australian Air Force model is made of the finest kiln dried renewable mahogany wood (commonly known as Lauan or Meranti) which has undergone many stages of carving and meticulous and careful sanding giving the beautiful, finished museum quality masterpiece. Many collectors and model connoisseurs demonstrate their preference for genuine handmade and hand painted mahogany wood models rather than plastic or die cast (diecast) alternatives due to the overall look and totally different feel of the item - we trust you will find the same. We can however, if required produce the same model in Solid Cast Resin so just click and contact us for further information. Our craftsmen and gifted artisans ensure that our finely handcrafted model airplanes match the precise blueprint details of the original aircraft. The paint scheme, markings and parts are closely matched, reflecting the original aircraft. This stylish top-quality desktop replica model will surely enthrall anyone who receives this as a gift and for sure one of the most appropriate and desirably collectable gifts for any aviation enthusiast or avid military jet aircraft collector whilst also displaying a perfect resemblance to the actual real life version.

There are many types of military jet aircraft, but the basic types are bombers, fighters, fighter bombers, spotter planes, transporters, patrol aircraft, trainers, and reconnaissance and observation aircraft. All these types of aircraft are used for different types of missions. If you're a fan of historic or present-day military aviation, our model aircraft will bring the excitement and character of these aircraft right into your own home.

If you require, we can also make the Boeing F-18 RAAF Royal Australian Air Force model in any other military, government or even private livery or colour scheme you require and if necessary, in a different size or scale. Just click here to contact us with a description or photographs of what you require, and we will let you have a quotation for the necessary customization by return email. We can also make bespoke scale replicas of any other private / civil commercial airliner or airliners, helicopter, glider, gliders with engines, military propeller, warplane jets, biplane, triplane, tail fin, spacecraft, rocket or NASA model you require in any airline, military or civilian livery or colors. We also produce model airships, blimps, dirigibles, blimps, boats, and ship collectibles. Wall plaque or seal for military, government or private customers. Again, by clicking here to contact us just let us know exactly what you need.

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Boeing F/A-18 Hornet: Backbone of the Royal Australian Air Force Fighter Fleet

The Boeing F/A-18 Hornet, operated by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) for over three decades, has been a symbol of Australia’s air combat capability. Originally procured in the 1980s, the Hornet served as the RAAF’s principal multi-role fighter, excelling in air-to-air combat and ground-attack missions. It has since been complemented—and partially replaced—by more advanced aircraft, but its legacy remains central to Australia’s modern air power history.

Origins of the Hornet in Australian Service

In 1981, the Australian Government selected the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A/B Hornet to replace the aging Dassault Mirage III fighters. The Hornet was chosen for its versatility, advanced avionics, and ability to perform both fighter and strike roles, making it ideal for Australia’s unique strategic requirements.

A total of 75 Hornets (57 single-seat F/A-18A and 18 two-seat F/A-18B variants) were delivered to the RAAF between 1984 and 1990, primarily stationed at RAAF Base Williamtown (NSW) and RAAF Base Tindal (NT).

Capabilities and Roles

The F/A-18 Hornet was built for multi-role combat, capable of executing:

• Air superiority missions, including interception and dogfighting

• Close air support and strike missions using precision-guided munitions

• Maritime strike using anti-ship missiles

• Reconnaissance and training with the two-seat B models

Powered by two General Electric F404 engines, the Hornet could reach speeds of Mach 1.8 and featured advanced radar and electronic warfare systems that were cutting-edge for their time.

The aircraft’s reliability, agility, and ruggedness made it a mainstay for Australia’s regional security and international coalition missions.

Upgrades and Operational Use

Over the years, Australia’s Hornets underwent significant upgrades under the Hornet Upgrade Program (HUG) to improve radar, avionics, and weapons systems. These enhancements kept the aircraft relevant well into the 21st century.

RAAF Hornets were deployed in:

• Iraq (Operation Falconer, 2003) – supporting coalition forces during the Iraq War

• Syria and Iraq (Operation Okra, 2015–2017) – as part of the international fight against ISIS

• Numerous joint military exercises such as Pitch Black and Talisman Sabre

Transition to the Super Hornet and F-35

In the late 2000s, the RAAF began transitioning to newer platforms. The F/A-18F Super Hornet, a larger and more advanced evolution of the classic Hornet, entered service in 2010 as a stop-gap ahead of the arrival of the F-35A Lightning II, Australia’s fifth-generation stealth fighter.

• Super Hornet: 24 in service with No. 1 Squadron, offering enhanced strike capability

• F-35A Lightning II: Replacing the Classic Hornet, with over 70 planned for full operational capability

By 2021, Australia retired its Classic Hornet fleet from active service. Many were sold to Canada and private operators in the U.S., while a few were preserved in museums and heritage collections.

Legacy

The F/A-18 Hornet served the RAAF with distinction for over 35 years, proving itself in combat and as a deterrent force in the Indo-Pacific region. Its retirement marks the end of a proud chapter in Australian aviation history—but its contribution to regional security, pilot training, and allied operations ensures its legacy will endure.