The F-18 is the first US Navy aircraft to be developed and enter squadron service after the low visibility camouflage schemes were in full bloom. As a result, they are some of the most boring looking planes every produced, especially the initial batch. It is only recently that some color in terms of CAG schemes has come to the Hornet and we are all the better because of it. How nice it would have been to be able to do these in light gull grey over white with full color tail markings!

These are all quite early F-18As and all in the two grey scheme of FS 36375 uppers and 36495 lower surfaces. The anti-glare panels are FS 25237 and they have tan tips to the radomes.

First is VFA-25, one of the first USN squadrons to get the Hornet.

Following quickly behind is VMFA-122 from the Marines, who gave up Phantoms for the F-18.

Finally, a VFA-195 'Dam Busters' Hornet. These guys, like VFA-25, transitioned over from the A-7E. To my knowledge, all are still flying the F-18, though they are later F-18Cs.

As for kits you have a wide variety from Italeri, to Hasegawa to Fujimi to choose from. Any of these should work quite well. The sheet provides full data and insignia for all three planes.

Review copy courtesy of my ever growing decal pile!

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