By now the buzz should have toned down from the new Academy 1/32 F-18C Hornet. It is nearly 3 months old and so is now ancient history for many modelers. By happenstance, I received the latest sheet from Leading Edge in the mails  a few days ago and it is not only in 1/32, but covers every current CF-18 squadron as well as those which partook in the Balkans operations of a few years ago. No fewer than 21 different aircraft can be modeled with this sheet, which fills a 9 x 12 bag. Not shown, but included is the false canopy and the different colored leading edge protection 'tapes'.

There are enough common markings to do one aircraft (two in the smaller sheets) and enough letters to do any 'non-special' CF-18A/B in the fleet. I did mention that this sheet only does current units which include 410, 416, 425, 433 and 441 Sq as well as AETE, the test unit. It also has markings for the 'Balkan Rats' along with the appropriate mission markings. 

What makes Leading Edge sheets superior to many others is the depth of the instructions. As usual, you get superb placement guides for all the unit and data decals. Add to this are two full color pages. One has large photos of the cockpits of both the CF-18A and B versions. No need to hunt up references as it is all here. The other sheet has even larger photos of standard pilot's garb from all angles (Must have cost many beers for a modeling fee, eh?).  :o)

In short, there is no better sheet anywhere for the CF-18 than what you will find with Leading Edge. As with all their sheets, they are a limited run so I highly recommend getting yours now before they are gone.

Review sheet courtesy Leading Edge Decals. Thanks for your support. If you cannot find these at your local hobby shop, contact them direct at the link above.

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