Initially designed as the YF-17A lightweight fighter, following its loss to the F-16, it was greatly modified to become the F/A-18 Hornet. The initial squadrons were on carriers by the 1980s. Initial concerns with lack of range and carrying capability were never fully solved with either the F-18A or the improved F-18C versions. Even the newer F-18E series still has those concerns.

However, the F-18 has performed admirably well for the US Navy and Marine Corps. So popular is the design that a number of foreign countries now have the Hornet in service including Kuwait, Finland, Spain, Switzerland and Canada. The Canadians were one of the first overseas sales for the Hornet and the survivors of the138 examples initially purchased have been sterling performers for the CAF.

In the US inventory, the F-18A (subject of this kit) has been mostly replaced by the more capable F-18C, though there are a number of them in use by the Navy and Marine Reserves. The future of the A model is unsure, but it is quite likely that it will be converted into an aerial target or drone when the available F-4 Phantom Airframes have been expended.

The decal sheet is quite complete with all the needed warnings and insignia. The colorful tail markings are in one piece to make placement easier. The tails themselves will have to be painted black anyway as both sides were so colored. The instruction sheet is on the back of the box as is the painting guide. This will eliminate the problem with losing the sheet! Overall, it looks like a very nice kit and one that I look forward to building.