F/A-18 C Hornet 1:48 Model Kit by Hobby Boss

Model Features

• 1:48 scale plastic model kit
• Accurately represents the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18C Hornet multirole fighter
• Highly detailed cockpit with realistic instrument panel and ejection seat
• Finely engraved panel lines and authentic surface detail
• Detailed twin-engine air intakes and exhaust nozzles
• Accurate landing gear and detailed wheel wells
• Includes a comprehensive selection of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons
• External fuel tanks and multiple underwing pylons
• Clear canopy with excellent transparency
• Precision-moulded plastic parts
• Waterslide decal sheet with US Navy markings
• Illustrated assembly instructions
• Ideal for modern military aviation collections, US Navy displays, or carrier flight deck diorama projects

Specifications

• Brand: Hobby Boss
• Scale: 1:48
• Subject: McDonnell Douglas F/A-18C Hornet
• Material: Injection-moulded plastic
• Skill Level: Suitable for intermediate modellers
• Paint & Glue Required: Yes (sold separately)
• Recommended Age: 14+
• Parts: Over 240
• Model Length: Approx. 353.5mm
• Wingspan: Approx. 253.8mm

What's in the Box

• Plastic sprues
• Clear canopy parts
• External fuel tanks
• Air-to-air and air-to-ground ordnance
• Waterslide decal sheet
• Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Aircraft

The McDonnell Douglas F/A-18C Hornet is one of the world's most successful multirole combat aircraft, designed to perform both fighter and attack missions from aircraft carriers and land bases. Developed jointly by McDonnell Douglas and Northrop, the Hornet originated from the YF-17 Cobra prototype, which was adapted to meet the United States Navy's requirement for a versatile carrier-based aircraft capable of replacing the ageing F-4 Phantom II, A-7 Corsair II, and eventually complementing the F-14 Tomcat.

The Hornet made its first flight in 1978 and entered operational service with the United States Navy and Marine Corps in 1983. The F/A designation reflects its dual-purpose capability as both a fighter (F) and attack (A) aircraft, allowing it to seamlessly switch between air superiority, fleet defence, close air support, precision strike, reconnaissance, and suppression of enemy air defences during the same mission.

The F/A-18C introduced significant improvements over the earlier F/A-18A, including upgraded avionics, enhanced radar, improved mission computers, night-attack capability, and compatibility with a wider range of precision-guided weapons. Powered by two General Electric F404-GE-402 afterburning turbofan engines, the aircraft is capable of speeds approaching Mach 1.8 while maintaining exceptional agility and reliability.

Armed with an internal 20mm M61A1 Vulcan rotary cannon, the Hornet can carry a wide range of modern weapons including AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles, laser-guided bombs, JDAMs, AGM-65 Maverick missiles, AGM-88 HARM anti-radiation missiles, and anti-ship weapons. Its digital fly-by-wire flight control system and advanced cockpit made it one of the most capable combat aircraft of its generation.

The F/A-18C saw extensive combat service during Operation Desert Storm, the conflicts in the Balkans, Afghanistan, Iraq, and numerous other military operations around the world. It was also exported to several allied nations, including Australia, Canada, Finland, Kuwait, Malaysia, Spain, and Switzerland, where it earned an excellent reputation for reliability and versatility.

Although many operators have transitioned to newer aircraft such as the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and F-35 Lightning II, the F/A-18C continues to serve with several air forces worldwide. Its outstanding combat record and adaptability have secured its place as one of the most iconic multirole fighters of the modern era.

Historical Snapshot

• Country: United States
• First Flight: 18 November 1978
• Entered Service: 1983
• Role: Carrier-Based Multirole Fighter
• Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas (later Boeing)
• Crew: 1
• Engines: Two General Electric F404-GE-402 afterburning turbofan engines
• Primary Armament: One 20mm M61A1 Vulcan rotary cannon
• Secondary Armament: AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, bombs, rockets, AGM-65 Maverick, AGM-88 HARM, and external fuel tanks
• Maximum Speed: Approximately Mach 1.8 (1,915 km/h / 1,190 mph)
• Range: Approximately 2,000 km (1,243 miles)

Please Note

This is an unassembled plastic model kit. Paint, glue, and modelling tools are not included. Recommended for ages 14 and over.