80年代的CF-18 Hornet

?As of March 2025, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) operates a fleet of 89 fighter jets, primarily consisting of CF-18 Hornets. ?Simple Flying

Current Fighter Fleet

• CF-18 Hornet: The backbone of the RCAFs combat aircraft, these multirole fighters have been in service since the 1980s.

• Introduction:

  • The CF-18 Hornet entered service with the RCAF in 1982.

  • It is a variant of the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.

• Capabilities:

  • Multirole Fighter: The CF-18 can perform air superiority, strike missions, and close air support.

  • Equipped with advanced radar and weapons systems, it can engage both aerial and ground targets with precision.

  • Weapons: The CF-18 can carry a wide range of munitions, including air-to-air missiles (e.g., AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-120 AMRAAM) and air-to-ground munitions (e.g., bombs, precision-guided munitions).

• Upgrades:

  • Over the years, the CF-18 has undergone numerous upgrades to keep it effective in modern combat.

  • The RCAF has implemented new avionics, radar systems, and software upgrades to improve its capabilities and extend its service life.

  • Avionics Upgrade Program (AUP): The CF-18 received major updates to its cockpit displays, radar, and weapons systems to remain effective against newer threats.

• Role in NORAD:

  • The CF-18 plays a critical role in NORAD operations for air defense and interception missions across North American airspace.

  • Quick Reaction Alert (QRA): CF-18s are on standby 24/7 to intercept unidentified or hostile aircraft entering Canadian or North American airspace.