The combat-proven CF-18 Hornet is a twin-engine, multi-mission, tactical aircraft. It converts between air-to-air fighter missions and air-to-ground strike missions while on the same sortie with the flick of a switch.

The CF-18 fulfills the following types of assignment: fighter escort, suppression of enemy air defenses, reconnaissance, forward air control, close air support, and day and night strike missions.

Adapted from the F/A-18, the Canadian version of the jet features:

• a searchlight beneath the fuselage for nighttime visual identifications
• survival equipment adapted to the Canadian environment
• various cockpit layout modifications

The two-phase, nine-year incremental upgrade of Canada’s CF-18 Hornet fleet ensures an effective and operationally credible fighter force for Canada.

Phase 1

• Completed in 2006
• Upgraded the Canadian Hornet fleet’s avionics, radar, radio and weapons capabilities

Phase 2

• Completed in March 2010
• Improved the data link system to ensure Canadian forces are interoperable with United States and other allied aircraft fleets and added the Boeing Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System to improve weapons targeting
• The new colour cockpit displays to increase situational awareness were incorporated along with an upgraded, chaff-and-flare dipsensing electronic warfare system to improve survivability