F/A 18 Hornet multi-role aircraft

Canadian F18 refueling	The McDonnell Douglas F/A18 Hornet is one of the cornerstones in the US Navy fleets. Designed to combine an effective aerial platform for both fleet defense and anti ground target work. Powered with twin General Electric turbofans the aircraft has a performance in excess of mach 1.8 and can operate at altitudes above 50,000 ft. First prototype flight of the Hornet was in November 1978, during the following year the aircraft underwent it's carrier trials. Operational status for the aircraft was reached in the later half of 1983.
Hornets in common with other modern US military planes feature a fly by wire control system. The system in the Hornet is an advanced one allowing hands free carrier take offs etc. The computers on board the aircraft allow the pilot to maximise the F/A 18 flying performance without over-stressing or losing control of the plane. The aircraft is in service not only with the USN and Marine Corp but also with Canada's forces together with Australia, Malaysia, Spain, Kuwait Switzerland and Finland.	F18 cockpit
F18 in US service	In 1995 the First flight took place of the so called Super Hornet or F/A 18E. This aircraft reached fleet operational status in 2001. Improvements incorporated into this aircraft over earlier marks include more powerful engines, longer operational range, higher take off weight and general improvements throughout the aircraft. The Hornet from the start has been an all weather capable aircraft. F/A 18 aircraft served in the Gulf being employed in both their attack and fighter roles.
Blue Angel F/A 18 formation	The US Navy elite aerobatics team currently (2004) uses F/A18 Hornets in their displays. Known as the Blue Angels they started flying the aircraft in late 1986 replacing the Skyhawk they had used since 74. The aircrafts precision and ease of control are proven by the displays the Blue Angels take to the public.