Bear Hunters
By Don Connolly
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 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 weapon radar and evasive action systems. Maintenance has also proven to be extremely satisfactory. Each engine (which contains over 7,000 fewer parts then 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 technical updates during service life will ensure continues capability through the years. 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 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.
- A single edition limited to 850 prints and 50 artist proofs
- On Quintessence Acid Free Art Stock
- Overall Size 20"x26", Image 15"x21"
- Each print signed and numbered by the artist
- Countersigned by 425 SQN. Commanding Officer K.A. Coulter and Warrant Officer P. Auclair (Senior Crew Chief)
- This Photo does not do the print justice.
- This Print is in Excellent Condition, never framed and stored flat.
Connolly Discount
Purchase any 2 of the following prints from Don Connolly’s collection and receive a 3rd print free. (As well as combined shipping on the three prints)
“Ron’s Venture”
“T-Bird”
“Unpassioned Beauty” (UnSigned)
“The Red Knight”
“Sparring Partners”
“In The Golden Age”
“Early Morning Flip”
“The First Team”
“Sabres Supreme” (UnSigned)
“Bear Hunters”
*When purchasing 2 prints please indicate which free 3rd print you would like.
*3 of a kind or 3 different, it's your choice.
We have 20 years experience in selling and shipping aviation art. Please email any questions you might have on any of our prints.We remind our valued International Clients that we are not responsible for import taxes and duties applicable to the declared value of your purchase.