- The RAAF’s involvement with the F/A-18 began in the early 1980s when it selected the F/A-18A Hornet as its next generation fighter aircraft.
- The F/A-18A Hornet was introduced into service with the RAAF in 1985 and was used for air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
- In the 1990s, the RAAF acquired a number of F/A-18B two-seat aircraft, which were used for training and operational missions.
- The F/A-18A/B Hornet was gradually replaced by the newer F/A-18F Super Hornet in the 2010s, with the last F/A-18A/B being retired from service in 2021.
- The F/A-18 Hornet has been used extensively by the RAAF in a range of operations, including peacekeeping missions in the Middle East, as well as in exercises and operations closer to home, such as patrolling Australian airspace and responding to security threats in the region.
