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

Model Features

• 1:48 scale plastic model kit
• Accurately represents the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) F/A-18C Hornet
• Highly detailed cockpit with realistic instrument panel and Martin-Baker 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 external fuel tanks and a comprehensive selection of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons
• AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles included
• Clear canopy with excellent transparency
• Precision-moulded plastic parts
• Waterslide decal sheet with authentic Royal Australian Air Force markings
• Illustrated assembly instructions
• Ideal for modern military aviation collections, RAAF displays, or multinational coalition diorama projects.

Specifications

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

What's in the Box

• Plastic sprues
• Clear canopy parts
• External fuel tanks
• AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles
• Additional air-to-ground ordnance
• Waterslide decal sheet with RAAF markings
• Illustrated assembly instructions

History of the Original Aircraft

The McDonnell Douglas F/A-18C Hornet served as the backbone of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) fighter force for more than three decades. Selected to replace the ageing Dassault Mirage III, the Hornet provided Australia with a modern multirole combat aircraft capable of defending the nation's vast airspace while also conducting precision strike, maritime attack, and close air support missions.

Australia ordered 75 F/A-18A single-seat fighters and 18 F/A-18B two-seat operational conversion aircraft during the early 1980s. While the RAAF did not operate the factory-built F/A-18C, many Australian Hornets received extensive avionics and systems upgrades throughout their service lives that brought their capabilities close to the later C-model standard. Consequently, some model kits are marketed as RAAF F/A-18C versions while representing upgraded Australian aircraft.

Powered by two General Electric F404 afterburning turbofan engines, the Hornet could exceed Mach 1.8 while carrying a wide range of modern weapons. Its digital fly-by-wire flight controls, advanced radar, and excellent manoeuvrability made it one of the world's most capable multirole fighters during its era.

RAAF Hornets participated in numerous international operations, including Operation Falconer during the Iraq War in 2003, where they flew combat air patrol and escort missions. They later took part in Operation Okra, conducting precision strike missions against ISIS targets in Iraq and Syria. Throughout their service, Australian Hornets earned an excellent reputation for reliability, professionalism, and operational effectiveness.

Armed with an internal 20mm M61A1 Vulcan rotary cannon, the Hornet could carry AIM-9 Sidewinder, AIM-120 AMRAAM, AGM-84 Harpoon, AGM-65 Maverick, laser-guided bombs, JDAM precision-guided bombs, and other advanced munitions. This versatility allowed the aircraft to perform virtually every tactical combat mission required by the RAAF.

Following the introduction of the F-35A Lightning II, Australia's Classic Hornets were gradually retired between 2019 and 2021, with many aircraft transferred to Canada to continue operational service. The Hornet remains one of the most respected and successful fighter aircraft ever to serve with the Royal Australian Air Force.

Historical Snapshot

• Country: Australia
• Entered Service (RAAF): 1985
• Role: Multirole Fighter
• Manufacturer: McDonnell Douglas
• Operator: Royal Australian Air Force
• 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-120 AMRAAM, AGM-65 Maverick, AGM-84 Harpoon, laser-guided bombs, JDAMs, rockets, 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.