The Dust 3.1 F18 is based on the BF3 model ported to BF2 by emaozipujing.
Software used: Paint.net, BfMeshview
1. The exterior model before I began work on it.
2. I used F18 blueprints as reference for panel lines, hatches and so on.
3. First I drew in the new panel lines and hatches (seen in BfMeshview).
4. Panel shading was added.
5. Dirt streaks, runs, more shading, the base undercarriage colour, plus a few decals for placement.
6. I began detail work on the undercarriage which had very complicated UV mapping!
Find out about UV mapping here. 
7. I created more decals,refined the undercarriage, and added many more small details
8. The finished F18. It includes a completely new normal map and custom alpha channel.
Find out about normal maps here.
Find out about alpha channels here.
A screenshot of the cockpit can be found in my last dev update: DUST 3.1 Development Update.
If you don't already have it, you can download Dust 3.0 here: DUST 3.0
Awesome, just awesome! The best F-18 model ever now for BF2, fantastic work!
All these panel lines and hatches make this jet look super authentic, I love it!
Just one thing missing in the cockpit, Geoff ;)
(The IFEI panel = Integrated Fuel-Engine Indicator Cockpit Panel). Would be cool if you consider to add it, I always see that empty gap when flying with head tracking..)
The level of detail is amazing! It looks like a very tedious exercise drawing in all those panel lines and making them look realistic. It certainly pays off though.
Nice decal wasp/hornet decal too.
Thanks!
When I first started doing repaints it was tedious, but I've since developed techniques that I use with certain tools in paint.net that make it a lot easier. And if you're not in a rush to finish it's strangely satisfying, somewhat like a kind of meditative puzzle.
I actually get a lot of inspiration from plastic kit modellers on youtube who are painting everything by hand or airbrush. Their patience and attention to detail is astonishing.
I particularly love the weathering techniques, and although plastic modellers are using real paint on a real surface a lot is transferable to working on a 'virtual' 2d texture applied to a 3d mesh.
Cool, I really enjoy the results of your gorgeous work!
Thanks you. :-)