What is the designation for the Hornet strike fighter?

The designation for the Hornet strike fighter is F/A-18C/D. This designation reflects the dual capabilities of the aircraft: the "F" indicates that it is a fighter, while the "A" denotes its attack capabilities. The Hornet is designed to perform both air-to-air combat and air-to-ground attack missions, making it a versatile platform for the Navy.

In the context of naval aviation, the F/A-18C/D series, which evolved from the original F/A-18A/B series, includes various improvements in avionics, weapons systems, and overall performance. This makes the Hornet an essential part of the Navy's fleet, capable of engaging in multiple roles during combat operations.

Understanding the designations is crucial, as each letter represents specific functionalities of the aircraft, differentiating it from other aircraft such as the C-130, which is a transport plane, the F-5N/F, a light fighter, and the E-6B, which is primarily used for command and control, rather than strike or fighter roles.