The McDonnell Douglas F-18 Hornet began life as the Northrop YF-17 Cobra, which was chosen by the US Navy as a more survivable aircraft platform with two engines when compared to the YF-16. The F/A-18A Hornet entered operational service first with the US Marine Corps in 1983. The Hornet is a multi-role combat aircraft capable of conducting various missions from both the land and sea.
Born in the war
Built at the Supermarine works at Castle Bromwich in the West Midlands late in the war, TA805 started its career with the RAF at No 39 MU in December 1944.
Wearing the code letters HF it joined 183 (Gold Coast) Squadron at Chilbolton on the 17th June 1945. Commanded by Sqd/Ldr J R Cullen DFC, the squadron converted from the Typhoon IB to the Spitfire IX.
15 сен 2024
