F-18D Hornet
This is an ErikGen design. We are an approved printer for EriKGen designs. His exquisite STLs can be purchased and self printed here: EriKGen Designs.
The F/A-18D Hornet (a two-seat "classic" Hornet, not a "Super Hornet") was used by the U.S. Marine Corps starting in 1990 for night-attack missions, combat missions in Desert Storm, and over Iraq and Afghanistan. The F/A-18E/F Super Hornet (a separate, larger design) was later used extensively in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Syria, operated by the U.S. Navy and Australia.
Key details regarding the usage of F/A-18 variants:
- F/A-18D (Legacy Hornet): Developed as a night-attack version, this two-seat variant was used by the U.S. Marine Corps for multi-role missions, including fighting in the Gulf War (Operation Desert Storm).
- F/A-18E/F (Super Hornet):
- U.S. Navy: Entered service in 1999 (serving from aircraft carriers) as the backbone of naval power. It was used in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, and in the fight against the Islamic State.
- Australia: The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) began operating F/A-18F Super Hornets in 2010.
- Middle East Operations: Super Hornets have been extensively engaged in combat operations against Houthi rebels in the Red Sea and operations in Syria.
It is important to note that the F/A-18D is a "Legacy" Hornet, while the F/A-18E/F is the "Super Hornet." The F/A-18D was primarily used by the Marine Corps, while the Super Hornet (E/F) was adopted by the Navy.
