The F-18 is one of today’s most technologically advanced and modern jet aircraft. Currently valued at 36 million dollars it is the centerpiece of the museum collection and inspires youth to pursue careers in aviation, aerospace and the military.
This F/A-18B flew with the Navy’s Blue Angels flight demo team. In 2006, actor Harrison Ford (known for his starring roles in Indiana Jones and Star Wars) was given a VIP ride in this very aircraft. The F-18 also performed in the movies Independence Day, Behind Enemy Lines and Godzilla.
In 1975 the USAF announced the F-16 Fighting Falcon as the winner of the Lightweight Fighter (LWF) Competition. Of the main contenders, both the General Dynamics YF-16 and Northrop’s YF-17 design were not well suited for Naval Ops. The new F-18 Hornet was based on the YF-17 design and became the Navy’s solution to a more economical and versatile aircraft.
Acquired by Yanks in 2012 from the US Navy, this is our only on loan aircraft.
| DISPLAY STATUS | COUNTRY OF ORIGIN | CURRENT LOCATION |
|---|---|---|
| On Loan | United States | Legends Hangar |
| PURPOSE & TYPE | MATERIALS | ERA & DATE RANGE |
| Fighter | Metals/Composites | Modern Jets 1975 – Present |
| PRODUCTION & ACQUISITION |
SPECIFICATIONS | SERVICE HISTORY |
| MFG: McDonnell Douglas First Produced: 1983 Number Built: 1,480 F-18 (A-D Models) Armament: M-61 20mm cannon or 1,370 lbs of external ordnances, AIM-9, AIM-120, Paveway JDAM, AGM-84, AGM-158Acquired by Yanks in 2012 from the US Navy, this is our only on loan aircraft. |
Wingspan: 37 ft 6 in Wing Area: 400 sq ft Length: 56 ft Height: 15 ft 3.4 in Empty Weight: 23,000 lbs Gross Weight: 51,900 lbs Powerplant: F404-GE-402 Thrust: lbs Cruise Speed: 660 mph Maximum Speed: 1.8 mach (1,122 mph) Range: 2,000 mph |
161943
Delivered: January 31, 1984 |