F-111 Aardvark
Manufactured by General Dynamics, the F-111 Aardvark is a multipurpose tactical fighter bomber capable of supersonic speeds. The F-111 Aardvark was primarily used and became a major part of the USAF. Then eventually, the Aardvark retired by the year 1998. The only current user of the Aardvark is the Royal Australian Air Force.
The “Aardvark” was nicknamed after the aircraft because of its physical appearance of the said aircraft - long, slightly upturned nose. The F-111 can operate from tree-top level to altitudes above 60,000 feet (18,200 meters). The F-111 has variable-sweep wings that allow the pilot to fly from slow approach speeds to supersonic velocity at sea level and more than twice the speed of sound at higher altitudes. Wings angle from 16 degrees (full forward) to 72.5 degrees (full aft). Full-forward wings give the most surface area and maximum lift for short takeoff and landing. The F-111 needs no drag chute or reserve thrust to slow down after landing. There were 7 variants of the F-111 Aardvark that were produced: F-111A. F-111B, F-111C, F-111D, F-111E, F-111F and lastly the F-111G.
Specifications (F-111 Aardvark):
Type: Fighter bomber
Crew: 2
Length: 73 feet, 6 inches (22.0 meters)
Wingspan: 63 feet (19 meters) full forward; 31 feet, 11 1/2 inches (11.9 meters) full aft
Height: 17 feet, 1 1/2 inches (5.13 meters)
Empty Weight: 47,481 pounds (21,367 kilograms)
Maximum Takeoff Weight: 100,000 pounds (45,000 kilograms)
Speed: Mach 1.2 at sea level Mach 2.5 at 60,000 feet
Ceiling: 60,000-plus feet (18,200 meters)
Range: 3,565 miles (3,100 nautical miles) with external fuel tanks
Armament:
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