General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark

Despite its uncertain start the F-111 proved to be one of the most successful and influential designs of the 1960s.



Its radical 'swing wing' was adopted by the F-14 Tomcat, Panavia Tornado and Rockwell B-1B Lancer while its turbofan-type engines became standard in many combat aircraft. F-111 crews pioneered tactics using terrain-following and laser targeting devices that made the F-15E Eagle's missions possible. Its 4,000 low-altitude penetration missions during Operation Linebacker in Vietnam showed how individual aircraft can deliver crippling blows to enemy capability without loss to themselves.



The first Osprey book on the subject, Peter Davies' volume charts the history of this aircraft type, in the wake of its retirement of the F-111 from Australian service.