The F-111 fighter, also called Aardvark, is a medium-range, multi-purpose tactical strike aircraft that was developed by General Dynamics. Previously known as TFX (Tactical Fighter "X"), the aircraft was developed in response to a joint services requirement for a superior fighter from the US Air Force (USAF) and US Navy in 1960. Several variants were developed for operations such as strategic bomber, electronic warfare and reconnaissance.
The F-111 aircraft conducted its first flight in December 1964 and entered into service with the USAF in 1967. Production of the F-111 was ceased in 1976 after building 566 aircraft in different versions. The variants of the F-111 were in service with the USAF until 1998.
The Australian F-111 variant was delivered in 1968. The aircraft first entered into the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) service in 1973. It was earlier delayed due to problems such as structural integrity and political issues. RAAF has been the sole operator of the F-111 with 21 aircraft.
Credit video: US Military Power
