?As of March 2025, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) operates a fleet of 89 fighter jets, primarily consisting of CF-18 Hornets. ?Simple Flying
Current Fighter Fleet
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CF-18 Hornet: The backbone of the RCAFs combat aircraft, these multirole fighters have been in service since the 1980s.
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Introduction:
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The CF-18 Hornet entered service with the RCAF in 1982.
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It is a variant of the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.
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The CF-18 Hornet entered service with the RCAF in 1982.
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Capabilities:
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Multirole Fighter: The CF-18 can perform air superiority, strike missions, and close air support.
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Equipped with advanced radar and weapons systems, it can engage both aerial and ground targets with precision.
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Weapons: The CF-18 can carry a wide range of munitions, including air-to-air missiles (e.g., AIM-7 Sparrow, AIM-120 AMRAAM) and air-to-ground munitions (e.g., bombs, precision-guided munitions).
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Multirole Fighter: The CF-18 can perform air superiority, strike missions, and close air support.
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Upgrades:
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Over the years, the CF-18 has undergone numerous upgrades to keep it effective in modern combat.
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The RCAF has implemented new avionics, radar systems, and software upgrades to improve its capabilities and extend its service life.
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Avionics Upgrade Program (AUP): The CF-18 received major updates to its cockpit displays, radar, and weapons systems to remain effective against newer threats.
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Over the years, the CF-18 has undergone numerous upgrades to keep it effective in modern combat.
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Role in NORAD:
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The CF-18 plays a critical role in NORAD operations for air defense and interception missions across North American airspace.
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Quick Reaction Alert (QRA): CF-18s are on standby 24/7 to intercept unidentified or hostile aircraft entering Canadian or North American airspace.
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The CF-18 plays a critical role in NORAD operations for air defense and interception missions across North American airspace.
