McDonnell Douglas / Boeing F/A-18 Hornet (likely a Super Hornet variant, such as the F/A-18E or F/A-18F)

PaddyB 🇩🇪

02 Aug 2026 · © Paddybee

Spotted at Death Valley National Park

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Aircraft

F/A-18 Hornet (likely a Super Hornet variant, such as the F/A-18E or F/A-18F) F18

Military gray camouflage

Manufacturer

McDonnell Douglas / Boeing

Gear

iPhone 14 Pro Max

Achievements

Boeing Beginner, Military Maverick

2 badges earned

Photo grade

Bronze

Score: 75.0

You nailed the belly shot with clean blue sky, though mild softness and high angle obscure some details.

Insights

Aviation History

The F/A-18 Hornet series is an iconic multirole combat aircraft for the US Navy, USMC, and other militaries worldwide, notably replacing the F-14 Tomcat aboard US aircraft carriers.

Fleet Rarity

Hundreds remain in operation globally, but some older variants are being retired.

Record Flights

The Blue Angels use the F/A-18 as their demonstration jet; Super Hornets are flown on long carrier deployments.

Safety & Events

The F/A-18 family has been involved in numerous notable military operations since the 1980s and is known for its excellent carrier suitability.

Future Outlook

Still in service, especially the Super Hornet, though older Hornets are being replaced by the F-35C.

Specifications

General Electric F414 (if Super Hornet) or F404 (if legacy Hornet)

Engine

13.62 m (Super Hornet), 11.43 m (Hornet)

Wingspan

18.31 m (Super Hornet), 17.07 m (Hornet)

Length

2,346 km (Super Hornet), 2,000 km (Hornet)

Range

1,060 km/h

Speed

1-2 crew (depending on variant) and military payload

Capacity

29,937 kg (Super Hornet), 23,400 kg (Hornet)

MTOW

4.88 m (Super Hornet), 4.66 m (Hornet)

Height

2 x 98.0 kN (F414) or 2 x 79.0 kN (F404)

Thrust

Military jets are not rated under ICAO civil standards, but typically 120 dB at close range

Noise