?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
CF-18 Hornet: The backbone of the RCAFs combat aircraft, these multirole fighters have been in service since the 1980s.
Introduction:
The CF-18 Hornet entered service with the RCAF in 1982.
It is a variant of the McDonnell Douglas F/A-18 Hornet, designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.
Capabilities:
Multirole Fighter: The CF-18 can perform air superiority, strike missions, and close air support.
Equipped with advanced radar and weapons systems, it can engage both aerial and ground targets with precision.
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).
Upgrades:
Over the years, the CF-18 has undergone numerous upgrades to keep it effective in modern combat.
The RCAF has implemented new avionics, radar systems, and software upgrades to improve its capabilities and extend its service life.
Avionics Upgrade Program (AUP): The CF-18 received major updates to its cockpit displays, radar, and weapons systems to remain effective against newer threats.
Role in NORAD:
The CF-18 plays a critical role in NORAD operations for air defense and interception missions across North American airspace.
Quick Reaction Alert (QRA): CF-18s are on standby 24/7 to intercept unidentified or hostile aircraft entering Canadian or North American airspace.