The AF-18 Hornet, the Australian variant of the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A, served for decades as the primary multirole fighter of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Introduced in the mid-1980s, it played a crucial role in national air defense and in international operations alongside allies under both NATO and UN mandates.

The AF-18 preserves the original Hornet’s true multirole design, seamlessly transitioning between air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. With advanced digital avionics, multimode radar, and upgraded targeting systems, it proved to be a dependable and flexible combat platform in diverse operational environments.

Key features of the AF-18 Hornet (RAAF):

Digital avionics with HUD and computerized navigation systems.

AN/APG-65 radar, capable of engaging multiple air and ground targets.

Full multirole capability for both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.

Standard armament: AIM-132 ASRAAM, AIM-120 AMRAAM, GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs.

High maneuverability and proven reliability in both domestic and international missions.

For decades, the AF-18 Hornet stood as the backbone of Australia’s air defense, safeguarding national sovereignty while contributing to coalition missions in support of global security and stability.

Controls:

AG1: Jettison Fuel Tanks
AG2: Jettison GBU-12
AG5: Extend refueling probe
AG6: Fold wings
AG7: Arm tail hook
AG8: Lights
VTOL: Flaps
Trim: Adjust Trim