In 1980 the Northrop designed McDonnel Douglas CF- 18 was chosen over several competitors to be Canada's front line fighter aircraft. It entered service in 1982 and proved to be a most capable machine well suited for air to air and air to ground missions. A pilot's dream, the CF 18 has the reliability of two magnificently responsive G.E. F 404 smokeless engines with enough power to climb vertically or to go supersonic at a moment's notice. The cockpit offers unequalled visibility, HUD (Heads Up Display of data on the windscreen) and HOTAS (Hands On Throttle And Stick). With left hand on throttle and right hand on the stick over 100 control inputs are possible without having to look down onto the instrument panel. The closest thing to an extension of the pilot, the aircraft has phenomenal maneuverability coupled with the latest in weapons, radar and evasive action systems. Maintenance has also proven to be extremely satisfactory. Each engine (which contains over 7,000 fewer parts than the F-104's J-79) can be completely changed in under an hour. Access doors are everywhere allowing instant changing of "Black Boxes" and reliability, factory support and serviceability have been outstanding.

The selection team which recommended purchase of the original 138 aircraft definitely did their homework! Performance and reliability have allowed Canadian pilots and ground technicians to compete successfully with the best in the world and to exceed operational requirements. Technical updates during its service life will ensure continued capability beyond the year 2000. Appearing at many airshows, it's phenomenal power and maneuverability must be seen to be appreciated.

"Les Alouettes" (425 Tactical Fighter Squadron) operate from C.F.B. Bagotville with a detachment at Goose Bay. One of its many requirements is to intercept long range Soviet "Bear" bombers which fly along Canada's Eastern Coast transiting to or from Cuba. These important exercises demonstrate that Canada is capable and predictable in its response to any incursions into its airspace.