Boeing FA-18 Hornet Monograph

The Boeing FA-18 Hornet Monograph dives deep into the history of the aircraft that revolutionized Spanish defense. The FACA program (Future Fighter and Attack Aircraft) represented the largest arms investment in Spain's history at the time. By choosing the McDonnell Douglas (now Boeing) F-18, the Spanish Air Force gained one of the world's most advanced multirole platforms, a status it has maintained through decades of cutting-edge upgrades.

Salvador Mafé meticulously details the successive generations of the Hornet, its various versions, and the Mid-Life Updates (MLU) that have turned the Spanish C.15 into the lethal EF-18M. The book captures the unique versatility of the Hornet—a "force multiplier" capable of switching from pure air defense to a deadly strike vector at the push of a button. Even in the era of 5th-generation fighters, the Hornet’s adaptability remains a benchmark in modern warfare.

The final chapter provides a timely analysis of the Hornet's future in Spain. With recent 2026 updates confirming a life extension for the fleet until 2035-2040, this monograph examines the ongoing debate between further Eurofighter acquisitions (Halcón programs) and the long-term transition toward the FCAS. You can find this essential work in our specialized aviation monographs section.

Publication Highlights

• ✈️ Aircraft: Boeing F/A-18 A/B and EF-18M (C.15/CE.15).
• 🇪🇸 Scope: Detailed history of the FACA program and EdA service.
• ✍️ Author: Salvador Mafé.
• 📖 Format: 84 pages, A4 size, high-quality softcover.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does the monograph include the Spanish "M" (Modernized) version?

Yes, the Boeing FA-18 Hornet Monograph covers the extensive modernization programs that transformed the original fleet into the current EF-18M standard used in Torrejón and Zaragoza.

Is there information about the Hornets based in the Canary Islands?

The book covers the operational history across all Spanish wings, including Ala 12, Ala 15, and the F/A-18A fleet of Ala 46 in Gando.

How up-to-date is the information regarding its replacement?

The special provides a comprehensive look at the current strategic options, including the integration of more Eurofighters and the roadmap for the fleet's eventual retirement in the late 2030s.