Years In Service: 1983-Present
Initial Flight: November 18, 1978
It is the first aircraft to have carbon fiber wings and provision was made for the wings to fold for carrier stowage. The F/A-18 was designed to be a highly versatile aircraft due to its avionics, cockpit displays, and excellent aerodynamic characteristics, with the ability to carry a wide variety of weapons.
Aircraft Specifications
Height: 15′ 3″ Wingspan: 37′ 6″ Length: 56′ Crew: 1-2 Armament: One M61A1 20 mm Vulcan 6-barreled cannon Payload: Mixed Ordnance Thrust: 17,750 lbs. No. of Engines: 2 Max Speed: 1,190 mph. Ceiling: 50,033 ft.