In 2012 RCAF CF-188A 781 (US registry 188781) MSN 0556/A464 was selected to receive the special paint scheme to represent Canada's Demo aircraft for that season. The aircraft paint theme was "The True North, Strong and Free" and flown by Captain Patrick Paco Gobeil, a former Snowbird Demonstration team member. Images on the aircraft depict the Arctic with 13 snowflakes to represent Canada's 13 provinces and territories. Also shown are Northern Lights, Canada's Maple Leaf, a polar bear and an Arctic hunter. 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's 1:72 scale F/A-18 Hornet is a quality model with many fine features, skillfully designed and manufactured with modern techniques. The canopy can be removed for an unobstructed view of the cockpits pad-printed instrument panel and interior features. A separate canopy with a fixed actuator is included for display in the open position. The speed brake can be configured in the deployed position, and the landing gear and gear doors are constructed as subassemblies for quick and easy ground configuration. The series includes the single-seat F/A-18C and the two-seat F/A-18D. Each release is fitted with removable ordnance appropriate to its mission Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature: Diecast metal construction with some plastic components. Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details. Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals. Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors. Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear. Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight". Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards. Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
