| The General Dynamics F-111 “Aardvark” entered service in 1967 as a medium-range aircraft designed for interdiction and tactical strikes. The F-111 was used as an all-weather attack aircraft capable of low-level penetration of enemy territory. It also could be used for reconnaissance and electronic warfare. Some unique features are variable geometry wings, the 2 crew members sat side by side in an escape capsule, internal weapons bay; terrain following radar and afterburning turbofans. The USAF retired their last F-111 in 1998. In 1988 the 27th TFW was stationed at Cannon Air Force Base in New Mexico. That year they received the F-111G when SAC’s 509th and 380th BW’s were disbanded. The primary role for the F-111G was training but in 1991 the “G” was being replaced by the “E” variant. As a result the “G”’s were sent to AMARC for storage and the transfer was complete by 1993. In October 1992 Australia decided to acquire F-111G’s for the RAAF. Fifteen F-111G’s were selected and USAF 69-6506 came to the RAAF as A8-506. Apparently upon the arrival of the aircraft it was placed in long term storage and used for spare parts. General Dynamics F-111A specifications Crew – 2 X pilot, weapon systems officer Performance Engines – 2 X Pratt & Whitney TF30-P-3 generating 18,500 lbs. thrust each Maximum speed – 1,452 mph (2,336 km/h) Cruising speed - 685 mph (1,102 km/h) Normal Range - 3,632 miles (5,845 km) Service Ceiling - 57,000 ft. (17,373 m) Dimensions Length - 73.5 ft (22.4 m) Wingspan - 63.0 ft (19.2 m) spread; 32.0 ft (9.74 m) swept Height - 17.13 ft (5.22 m) Wing area - 657.4 ft² (61.07 m²) spread; 525 ft² (48.77 m²) swept Weight Empty - 47,481 lb (21,537 kg) Loaded - 82,843 lb (37,577 kg) Maximum takeoff - 98,979 lb (44,896 kg) Armament 1 X 20mm M61A1 cannon and up to 24 conventional or nuclear weapons |
| Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series HA3005 F-111G "69-6506" 428th TFS, 27th TFW, USAF, Cannon AFB, New Mexico |