STING IN THE TAIL: F/A-18 HORNET

The McDonnell Douglas F/A-18A and B Hornet was introduced into RAAF service during 1985 to replace an ageing Mirage IIIO fleet. It became the backbone of Australia’s frontline fighter force while providing a very capable strike and ground attack capability. RAAF Williamtown in NSW became known as the Hornet’s Nest and home to 3 and 77 SQNs RAAF alongside 2 OCU for conversion training. 75 SQN RAAF operated their Hornet’s from Australia’s northern air base at Tindal, NT while the Research and Development Unit, ARDU, provided complex support from South Australia. During 35 years of service Australia’s F/A-18s underwent numerous upgrades and were involved in some of the RAAF’s most significant combat deployments since the Vietnam War including Diego Garcia, Operation Falconer and Operation Okra. The RAAF replaced long serving F-111s with Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornets and E/A-18G Growlers from 2010 and the original F/A-18s became known as the “Classic Hornet”. These were eventually superseded by the F-35 Lightning II in 2021. Sting in the Tail reflects the deadly fighting capabilities of the insect world’s Hornet and pays homage to a classic of modern aviation.

✅ Hand signed and numbered by Drew Harrison, with a Certificate of Authenticity included!

✨ Archival inks on High Quality Photo Rag paper.

*Print on demand product. Please allow 2 to 3 weeks for delivery.*