F/A-18

thingiverse

Hunting F18 Hornet to Scale This project was a small, simple endeavor that turned out to be an easy-to-print combat model of the F/A-18 Hornet. The F/A-18 Hornet is a fourth-generation multi-purpose fighter aircraft of American origin with the ability to operate from aircraft carriers. Developed in the 1970s by McDonnell Douglas, it was created from the Northrop YF-17 prototype for the US Navy and Marine Corps. The Hornet has been exported to seven countries, serving in their air forces since its inception. This versatile fighter combines hunting and attack capabilities to engage both aerial and ground targets. Its designation F/A signifies "Fighter" and "Attack," demonstrating its ability to perform various missions such as escort, air defense, enemy air defenses, interdiction, air support, and reconnaissance. Due to its reliability and versatility, the F/A-18 has proven itself a valuable asset, despite criticism for its limited scope and weaponry capacity. The F/A-18 has undergone four main production versions: the initial F/A-18A/B and later the improved F/A-18C/D. The A/C variants are single-seaters, while the B/D models are two-seaters. The C/D versions of the Hornet served as the baseline for creating the larger and more advanced F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Compared to its predecessor, the Super Hornet boasts increased size, weight, range, and weaponry capacity. The introduction of the F/A-18E/F enabled the US Navy to retire several outdated aircraft types, including the F/A-18 Hornet, which can now fulfill all retired models' missions alongside the Super Hornet in their fleet.