Diecast Aircraft Information

MetalWings Diecast Aircraft Reference by Dauntless Aviation

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 1948 all U.S. bomber units were ordered to concentrate on improving their bombing
accuracy and navigation skills. This would be accomplished through a competition that would
become known as “Operation Giant Voice” in 1971. The teams were comprised of B-52’s, F-
111 and KC-135. The RAF had taken part with Vulcans and Victors. In 1981 thru 1983 SAC’s
only FB-111A wing, the 509th BW from Pease AFB in New Hampshire took home the top
prize the Fairchild Trophy. In 1987 “Giant Voice” became “Proud Shield”. In 1974 the “Bomb
Comp” as the crews called it was held at Barksdale AFB in Louisiana. The insignia on the tail
of 68-0271 is SAC’s 2nd Air Force “Flying Deuce”.

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
HA3006
FB-111A "AARDVARK"
68-0271, 509th BW, Pease AFB, 1974
"New Hampshire Special"

1/72 scale pre-finished.

Die-cast metal with a minimum of plastic.

Professionally painted.

All markings are pad applied for superb results.

Crew figures.

24 Mk. 82 bombs.

Model has variable-sweep wings that work.

Comes with display stand.

Landing gear can be displayed up or down.

Extremely sought after by collectors.

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