McDonnell Douglas F/A-18B Hornet

RAAF ARDU, A21-101, RAAF Edinburgh, Australia

Hobby Master 1:72 HA3585

The Royal Australian Air Force's Aircraft Research and Development Unit (ARDU) is responsible for testing and evaluating new aircraft, systems, and technologies to ensure their safety and effectiveness before operational use. Located at RAAF Base Edinburgh in South Australia, ARDU conducts flight tests, weapon integrations, avionics evaluations, and aircraft performance assessments. It plays a key role in ensuring the RAAF's aircraft fleet is technologically advanced and combat-ready. ARDU works closely with the Australian Defence Force, defense contractors, and international partners, contributing to the modernization and operational effectiveness of the RAAF across multiple aircraft types and platforms.

McDonnell Douglas F/A-18B Hornet

Designed as a replacement for the A-4 Skyhawk and the A-7 Corsair II and as a complement to the F-14 Tomcat, the F/A-18 first flew on November 18, 1978. Perhaps best known as the aircraft of the US Navy's Blue Angels, this carrier-capable, supersonic, all-weather fighter has many roles, including fighter escort, fleet air defense and close air support. The F/A-18 is a versatile aircraft: it can operate from carriers or land bases and a single switch converts it from fighter to strike mode. During Operation Desert Storm, the F/A-18 proved that, on a single mission, one aircraft could serve as both fighter and a bomber.

Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature:

• Molded metal construction with plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Inscriptions and posters printed with a stamp that do not fade or fall off like decals.
• opening of awnings, revealing detailed within the cockpit.
• Extended / retracted interchangeable landing gear.
• Display stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Authentic detachable artillery cargoes complete with placards.