General Dynamics F-111

The General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark (the nickname was unofficial for most of its lifespan, but it was officially named "Aardvark" at its retirement ceremony for the United States Air Force) is a long-range strategic bomber, reconnaissance, and tactical strike aircraft. The F-111 project was long considered an expensive failure, but the end result was a capable, albeit costly, aircraft.

Specifications

General characteristics

• Crew: Two (pilot and weapons system operator)
• Length: 22.4 m (73.5 ft)
• Wingspan: 19.2 m (63.0 ft) spread; 9.74 m (32.0 ft) swept
• Height: 5.22 m (17.13 ft)
• Wing area: 61.07 m² (657.4 ft²) spread; 48.77 m² (525 ft²) swept
• Empty: 21,537 kg (47,481 lb)
• Loaded: 37,577 kg (82,843 lb)
• Maximum takeoff: 44,896 kg (98,979 lb)
• Unit cost: $15 million.
• Powerplant: 2 × Pratt & Whitney TF30-P-100 turbofans with afterburner, each 25,100 lbf (111.7 kN)

Performance

• Maximum speed: Mach 2.5 (2,660 km/h or 1,653 mph) (high altitude)
• Combat radius: 2,128 km (1,330 mi)
• Ferry range: 5,184 km (3,634 mi)
• Service ceiling: 17,270 m (56,650 ft)
• Rate of climb: 7,890 m/min (25,550 ft/min)
• Wing loading:
• Thrust-to-weight ratio:

Armament

• 1 × M61 Vulcan 20mm rotary cannon (seldom fitted)
• 14,288 kg (31,500 lb) warload