F-18 was never meant to be cutting edge. It was meant to provide a level playing field between manufacturers with controlled development that would keep it "affordable" to the sailors. So far, that plan has worked brilliantly.

F-18's could be built full carbon, carbon spars and beams, curved foils, etc. but that would defeat the purpose of the class. If that's the kind of boat you want to sail, go buy a Marstrom 20. That is not what F-18's are meant to be.