The F/A-18 Hornet, a supersonic, all-weather carrier and capable multirole fighter jet, is designed to attack both ground and aerial targets. In its fighter mode, the F/A-18 is used primarily as a fighter escort and for fleet air defense. In its attack mode, it is used for force projection, interdiction and close and deep air support. The fighter's primary missions are fighter escort, fleet air defense, suppression of enemy air defenses (SEAD), air interdiction, close air support and aerial reconnaissance. Its versatility and reliability have proven it to be a valuable carrier asset. The single-seat Hornet is the nation's first strike-fighter. It was designed for traditional strike applications such as interdiction and close air support without compromising its fighter capabilities. With its excellent fighter and self-defense capabilities, the F/A-18 at the same time increases strike mission survivability and supplements the F-14 Tomcat in fleet air defense. F/A-18 Hornets are currently operating in 37 tactical squadrons from air stations world-wide, and from 10 aircraft carriers. The F/A-18 was derived from the YF-17 in the 1970s for use by the United States Navy and Marine Corps. The Hornet is also used by the air forces of several other nations. It has been the aerial demonstration aircraft for the U.S. Navy's Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, since 1986. Want to see the F/A-18 Hornet?  Come to the 2010 Duluth Airshow! Read about other performers: · USMC Harrier · MiG-17 · CC Gerner