(F/A-18D): Two-seat, multi-role fighter and conversion trainer.
The 'D-model' F/A-18 is a two-place variant of the single-seat F/A-18C 'Hornet'. Aside from small reduction in internal fuel, The F/A-18D retains the D-model's APG-73 RADAR and is fully combat-capable. Sixty D's were further modified to accept the ATARS electro-optical sensor system, in place of the M61 cannon. ATARS-equipped F/A-18D's are often designated F/A-18D(RC). The last legacy hornet delivered to the USMC in 2000, was an F/A-18D.
The F/A-18D replaced the Grumman A-6 'Intruder' and McDonnell Douglas OA-4M 'Skyhawk' in USMC service. Foreign operators of the F/A-18C tend to have a couple of examples of the F/A-18D in service. The exception being Malaysia, which flies eight F/A-18D's and no single-seaters. The F/A-18 family of aircraft has seen combat in the Persian Gulf, Afghanistan, the Balkans and North Africa. Giving the skyrocketing costs of the upcoming Joint Strike Fighter, the option for existing F/A-18 and F-16 operators to opt for cheaper, and more-capable F/A-18E/F purchases is possible. The F/A-18C/D is no longer in production.
- Country of Origin:
United States
- First Flight:
18 Nov 1978
- Initial Service Date:
1/7/83
- No. Built:
1,480
- No. In Service:
0 (approx.)
- No. of Hardpoints:
9
- Crew:
2