Difference between revisions of "F-111F"

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{{About
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| about = American strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other versions
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| link = F-111 Aardvark (Family)
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}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=f_111f
 
|code=f_111f
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! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
|-
 
|-
−
| _ || _ || _ || _ || _ || _     <!-- ✓ -->
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| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X     <!-- ✓ -->
 
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
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The F111F is very similar to its predecessor, the F111A, but the armament and the more powerful machines are a massive difference.
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''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
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In Air RB the F111 should be used as a base bomber, as the fastest aircraft, the F111F can reach enemy bases much faster than other aircraft (only the Starfighter reaches enemy bases faster). Use enough fuel (either fully fuelled or with second largest fuel load) to get back to the airfield to get new bombs to bomb more bases. The F111 has an enormously high fuel consumption when the afterburner is activated.  
 +
The F111f is not suitable for dogfighting, the AIM-9Ls are only used for self-defence. The F111F should avoid turns, as it loses an enormous amount of speed (even with afterburner) and thus loses any advantage over other (normally slower) fighters. If the F111F takes part in a lowtier, it is worth using guided bombs from high altitude. In high tier rounds this should be avoided as aircraft like the F14 absolutely destroy high flying aircraft. In Ground RB, GBUs and AGMs should be used from a great distance from the battlefield. The AIM-9Ls can be used to intercept inattentive aircraft.
 +
In Air SB, the F111F should also be used as a base bomber, where it competes against much more powerful aircraft than in RB mode. High flying is therefore not an option.
 +
 
 +
'''''Usage in Battles'''''
 +
 
 +
''The F-111F is best utilized in a ground-attack and strike role due to its high payload capacity, advanced radar systems, and speed. In Realistic and Simulator Battles, its effectiveness is amplified with careful planning and support from teammates. Here are some points to consider:''
 +
 
 +
* '''''Low-Altitude Strikes''': With its terrain-following radar, the F-111F can fly low to avoid radar detection and anti-air threats, making it highly effective in ambush-style attacks on ground targets.''
 +
* '''''Payload Versatility''': The F-111F carries a wide array of ordnance, including guided bombs and cluster munitions, allowing it to adapt to various target types, from armored vehicles to fortified structures.''
 +
* '''''Team Cooperation''': This aircraft thrives with air cover, as it lacks dogfighting capability. Collaborate with teammates to secure the airspace, allowing the F-111F to focus on ground operations.''
 +
* '''''Threats and Countermeasures''': Enemy fighters and SAM systems pose the most significant risk. Engaging evasive maneuvers at high speeds and utilizing chaff and flares can help evade missiles.''
 +
* '''''Game Modes''':''
 +
** '''''AB''': The F-111F’s speed and payload make it a powerful asset in Arcade, where it can rapidly engage targets without the fuel and physics limitations of other modes.''
 +
** '''''RB''': In Realistic, players should plan their routes carefully, leveraging terrain for cover and coordinating with air support.''
 +
** '''''SB''': Simulator mode demands precision; the F-111F can effectively use its radar and avionics for pinpoint strikes but requires skillful navigation and positioning to avoid detection.''
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
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''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* As of the Dance of Dragons update, the fastest plane at low altitude.
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* Fast plane at low altitude
−
* A decently diverse selection of suspended weaponry for ground and air battles alike.
+
* A diverse selection of weaponry for ground and air battles alike
−
* [[MAW|MAWS]] (Missile Approach Warning System) is present, making it easier to detect missile launches.
+
* [[MAW|MAWS]] (Missile Approach Warning System) is present, which detects missile launches
−
* The [[AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9L]] Sidewinder missile comes stock and is proficient for self-defense.
+
* The [[AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9L]] Sidewinder missile comes stock and is proficient for self-defense
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Due to its immense size, the F-111F is not maneuverable compared to other planes at its battle rating.
+
* Due to its immense size, the F-111F is not maneuverable compared to other planes at its battle rating
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* Similar to its predecessor, it has little energy retention when its wings are swept back.
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* Similar to its predecessor, it has poor energy retention when its wings are swept back
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
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''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
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'''''The F-111F Aardvark: Development and History'''''
 +
 
 +
''The F-111 Aardvark, designed by General Dynamics, was a revolutionary aircraft with a blend of advanced technologies that made it versatile and highly effective in combat roles. The F-111F model, the ultimate variant of the series, became famous for its precision strike capabilities, long-range performance, and ability to operate under various conditions. This history explores the F-111F’s development, the innovations it introduced, its combat deployments, and its legacy within the U.S. Air Force.''
 +
 
 +
'''''Origins of the F-111 Program'''''
 +
 
 +
''In the early 1960s, the U.S. Department of Defense identified a need for an aircraft that could perform both tactical bombing and interception roles across multiple branches of the military. This led to the Tactical Fighter Experimental (TFX) program, aimed at creating a multi-role aircraft suitable for various missions. The U.S. Air Force required a bomber that could carry heavy payloads over long distances at both high and low altitudes. Simultaneously, the Navy wanted a fleet defense interceptor capable of protecting its carrier groups from Soviet bomber threats.''
 +
 
 +
''These combined requirements led to a complex design process that resulted in the F-111. General Dynamics won the contract to develop the aircraft, which introduced several groundbreaking features, such as variable-sweep wings, terrain-following radar, and afterburning turbofan engines. The F-111 was the first operational aircraft to employ variable-sweep wings, allowing it to perform optimally at both high-speed and low-speed settings. This technology enabled it to take off and land on shorter runways while achieving supersonic speeds at high altitudes.''
 +
 
 +
'''''Introduction of the F-111F'''''
 +
 
 +
''The F-111A was the first version of the Aardvark to enter service, but ongoing technological advancements and combat experience led to further modifications and improvements. The F-111F, introduced in the mid-1970s, became the most capable and sophisticated version of the series. Equipped with upgraded avionics and more powerful engines, the F-111F had superior performance and accuracy compared to its predecessors.''
 +
 
 +
''One of the key advancements in the F-111F was the integration of the Pave Tack targeting pod, which allowed for laser-guided munitions targeting. This system provided the F-111F with pinpoint accuracy in strike missions, making it one of the first aircraft capable of delivering precision-guided munitions with such effectiveness. The F-111F was also fitted with the TF30-P-100 afterburning turbofan engines, giving it increased thrust and better fuel efficiency, which extended its range and allowed it to carry heavier payloads.''
 +
 
 +
''The F-111F's avionics suite was highly advanced for its time. Its radar system allowed for all-weather capability, and its terrain-following radar enabled the aircraft to fly at very low altitudes while avoiding obstacles, making it ideal for strike missions in hostile airspace. This system, combined with its electronic countermeasure systems, provided a level of survivability that was crucial during its deployment in combat zones.''
 +
 
 +
'''''Combat Deployments and Operational History'''''
 +
 
 +
''The F-111 saw its first combat action during the Vietnam War with the F-111A model, which demonstrated the effectiveness of low-level bombing tactics. Despite some initial mechanical issues, the F-111A’s ability to deliver payloads precisely in all-weather conditions made it valuable in the conflict. However, the F-111F would later distinguish itself in other theaters of operation, proving its effectiveness and reliability as a strike aircraft.''
 +
 
 +
''One of the F-111F’s most famous combat missions occurred in 1986 during Operation El Dorado Canyon. Following a series of terrorist attacks linked to Libyan intelligence, President Ronald Reagan authorized an airstrike on key targets in Libya, including military installations in Tripoli and Benghazi. The F-111Fs flew from Royal Air Force bases in the United Kingdom, covering a round-trip distance of over 5,000 miles with multiple aerial refuelings. The mission was a success, with the F-111Fs delivering precise strikes on Libyan targets, demonstrating the aircraft’s long-range strike capability and precision. This mission also highlighted the F-111F’s ability to evade hostile air defenses, as it managed to penetrate Libyan radar networks and avoid interception.''
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 +
''The Gulf War in 1991 marked another significant chapter in the F-111F’s combat history. By this time, the F-111F was among the most advanced strike aircraft in the U.S. Air Force’s inventory, thanks to its precision-guided munitions and advanced targeting systems. During Operation Desert Storm, the F-111Fs were tasked with striking high-value targets, including Iraqi command centers, air defenses, armored divisions, and infrastructure critical to Iraq's war capabilities. Equipped with laser-guided bombs and cluster munitions, the F-111Fs played a crucial role in dismantling Iraqi military capabilities. One notable mission involved the destruction of heavily fortified bunkers that housed Iraqi command personnel and equipment. The F-111F’s ability to deliver precision strikes with minimal collateral damage made it an invaluable asset during the campaign.''
 +
 
 +
''During Desert Storm, the F-111Fs achieved a high success rate in their missions, with minimal losses. The aircraft’s combination of speed, range, and payload capacity allowed it to conduct deep strikes far into enemy territory, often flying at low altitudes to avoid radar detection. The F-111F’s success in Desert Storm cemented its reputation as one of the most capable strike aircraft of its time and underscored the value of precision-guided munitions in modern warfare.''
 +
 
 +
'''''Technological Innovations and Legacy'''''
 +
 
 +
''The F-111 series introduced several technological innovations that would influence future aircraft designs. Its variable-sweep wings were groundbreaking, providing both agility and stability across various speeds and altitudes. The terrain-following radar allowed it to fly at extremely low altitudes automatically, reducing the risk of detection and increasing mission survivability in heavily defended airspace. This capability was particularly useful in Cold War scenarios, where the F-111F was designed to operate behind enemy lines and deliver strikes on strategic targets.''
 +
 
 +
''The F-111F’s Pave Tack targeting pod represented a significant leap in targeting technology. This pod allowed the F-111F to accurately identify and engage targets using laser-guided munitions, a capability that set a new standard for precision bombing. This technology would later become a standard feature in many modern combat aircraft, proving the value of precision-guided munitions in reducing collateral damage and increasing mission success rates.''
 +
 
 +
''Furthermore, the F-111F’s success in combat missions influenced the development of other precision strike platforms, such as the F-15E Strike Eagle. While the F-111F was eventually retired, the concept of a fast, all-weather, precision strike aircraft continues in modern U.S. Air Force operations. Its contributions to military aviation paved the way for advancements in avionics, targeting systems, and multi-role capabilities.''
 +
 
 +
'''''Retirement and Legacy'''''
 +
 
 +
''By the 1990s, advancements in aircraft technology and changing military requirements led to the gradual phasing out of the F-111 series. The U.S. Air Force retired the F-111F in 1996, with the role of precision strike aircraft taken over by newer platforms like the F-15E Strike Eagle and the F-117 Nighthawk. These aircraft could perform similar roles with more advanced stealth and avionics systems, making the F-111F’s technology increasingly outdated despite its impressive track record.''
 +
 
 +
''The retirement of the F-111F marked the end of an era for the U.S. Air Force. Known for its unique design and role in precision strike missions, the F-111F left a lasting impact on military aviation. Former pilots and crew members often spoke highly of the aircraft’s reliability and performance, noting its resilience and effectiveness in high-stakes combat situations.''
 +
 
 +
''Today, the F-111F remains a celebrated aircraft among aviation enthusiasts and military historians. Its legacy lives on through the advancements it brought to precision bombing and strike tactics, influencing the design and operational concepts of future aircraft. Static displays of the F-111F can be found in various aviation museums, where it continues to captivate audiences with its distinctive appearance and storied history. The F-111F’s combination of speed, firepower, and technological innovation secured its place as one of the most formidable strike aircraft of its time.''
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
Line 187: Line 249:
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
+
;Related development
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[F-111 Aardvark (Family)]]
 +
 
 +
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
 +
 
 +
* [[Su-24M]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==

Latest revision as of 10:20, 8 November 2024

RANK 5 FRANCE
Somua SM PACK
This page is about the American strike aircraft F-111F. For other versions, see F-111 Aardvark (Family).
F-111F
f_111f.png
GarageImage F-111F.jpg
F-111F
USA flag.png USA
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.7 11.7 11.7
Class:
Research:350 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:950 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The F-111F Aardvark is a rank VII American strike aircraft with a battle rating of 11.7 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced in Update "Dance of Dragons".

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 12 192 m2 448 km/h
Turn time33 s
Max altitude12 192 m
Engine2 х Pratt & Whitney TF30-P-100
TypeJet
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight45 t

Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.

Characteristics Max speed
(km/h at _,___ m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock ___ ___ 12192 __._ __._ __._ __._ ___
Upgraded ___ ___ __._ __._ __._ __._

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
0 611 ___ ___ ___ ~__ ~__
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< ___ < ___ < ___ -

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
_____ _ _,___ kg ___ kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Gross
Weight
Weight (each) Type _m fuel __m fuel __m fuel
___ kg ___ _,___ kg _,___ kg _,___ kg _,___ kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (___%/WEP)
Condition 100% ___%/WEP _m fuel __m fuel __m fuel MGW
Stationary ___ kgf ___ kgf _.__ _.__ _.__ _.__
Optimal ___ kgf
(_ km/h) 		___ kgf
(_ km/h) 		_.__ _.__ _.__ _.__

Survivability and armour

Flares/Chaff
Aircraft countermeasures to distract IR and radar-guided missiles and also AA radar
Crew2 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear611 km/h

Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB2 917 → 4 395 Sl icon.png
RB7 627 → 11 493 Sl icon.png
SB11 195 → 16 870 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications317 000 Rp icon.png
487 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 000 Ge icon.png
Crew training270 000 Sl icon.png
Experts950 000 Sl icon.png
Aces3 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 210 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
90 / 310 / 590 % Sl icon.png
244 / 244 / 244 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
680 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
580 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
680 Ge icon.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
Pave Tack
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk82
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
AIM-9L
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
M60_belt_pack
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods laser guided bomb.png
GBU-12
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
M117
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk84
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
680 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk84
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
680 Ge icon.png
40px
AGM-65D
Research:
19 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
29 000 Sl icon.png
680 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
580 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
M60_new_gun
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
580 Ge icon.png
Mods laser guided bomb.png
GBU-10/24
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
580 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods optical guided bomb.png
GBU-15
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
580 Ge icon.png
40px
AGM-65G
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
580 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Ballistic Computer
CCIP (Guns) CCIP (Rockets) CCIP (Bombs) CCRP (Bombs) EEGS
Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon RedXCross.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png

Offensive armament

The F-111F is armed with:

  • 120 x countermeasures
  • 60 x large calibre countermeasures

Suspended armament

Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.

Default weapon presets
  • 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon (2,000 rpg) + 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
  • 4 x 600 gal drop tanks
  • 6 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
  • 24 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (12,000 lb total)
  • 24 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (18,000 lb total)
  • 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (8,000 lb total)
  • 24 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (12,000 lb total)
  • 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air bombs (8,000 lb total)
  • 6 x AGM-65D missiles
  • 2 x AGM-65G missiles
  • 4 x 277 kg GBU-12 Paveway II bombs (1,108 kg total)
  • 4 x 957 kg GBU-10 Paveway II bombs (3,828 kg total)
  • 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-24 Paveway III bombs (8,000 lb total)
  • 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-15(V)2/B bombs (8,000 lb total)

Usage in battles

The F111F is very similar to its predecessor, the F111A, but the armament and the more powerful machines are a massive difference. In Air RB the F111 should be used as a base bomber, as the fastest aircraft, the F111F can reach enemy bases much faster than other aircraft (only the Starfighter reaches enemy bases faster). Use enough fuel (either fully fuelled or with second largest fuel load) to get back to the airfield to get new bombs to bomb more bases. The F111 has an enormously high fuel consumption when the afterburner is activated. The F111f is not suitable for dogfighting, the AIM-9Ls are only used for self-defence. The F111F should avoid turns, as it loses an enormous amount of speed (even with afterburner) and thus loses any advantage over other (normally slower) fighters. If the F111F takes part in a lowtier, it is worth using guided bombs from high altitude. In high tier rounds this should be avoided as aircraft like the F14 absolutely destroy high flying aircraft. In Ground RB, GBUs and AGMs should be used from a great distance from the battlefield. The AIM-9Ls can be used to intercept inattentive aircraft. In Air SB, the F111F should also be used as a base bomber, where it competes against much more powerful aircraft than in RB mode. High flying is therefore not an option.

Usage in Battles

The F-111F is best utilized in a ground-attack and strike role due to its high payload capacity, advanced radar systems, and speed. In Realistic and Simulator Battles, its effectiveness is amplified with careful planning and support from teammates. Here are some points to consider:

  • Low-Altitude Strikes: With its terrain-following radar, the F-111F can fly low to avoid radar detection and anti-air threats, making it highly effective in ambush-style attacks on ground targets.
  • Payload Versatility: The F-111F carries a wide array of ordnance, including guided bombs and cluster munitions, allowing it to adapt to various target types, from armored vehicles to fortified structures.
  • Team Cooperation: This aircraft thrives with air cover, as it lacks dogfighting capability. Collaborate with teammates to secure the airspace, allowing the F-111F to focus on ground operations.
  • Threats and Countermeasures: Enemy fighters and SAM systems pose the most significant risk. Engaging evasive maneuvers at high speeds and utilizing chaff and flares can help evade missiles.
  • Game Modes:
    • AB: The F-111F’s speed and payload make it a powerful asset in Arcade, where it can rapidly engage targets without the fuel and physics limitations of other modes.
    • RB: In Realistic, players should plan their routes carefully, leveraging terrain for cover and coordinating with air support.
    • SB: Simulator mode demands precision; the F-111F can effectively use its radar and avionics for pinpoint strikes but requires skillful navigation and positioning to avoid detection.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Fast plane at low altitude
  • A diverse selection of weaponry for ground and air battles alike
  • MAWS (Missile Approach Warning System) is present, which detects missile launches
  • The AIM-9L Sidewinder missile comes stock and is proficient for self-defense

Cons:

  • Due to its immense size, the F-111F is not maneuverable compared to other planes at its battle rating
  • Similar to its predecessor, it has poor energy retention when its wings are swept back

History

The F-111F Aardvark: Development and History

The F-111 Aardvark, designed by General Dynamics, was a revolutionary aircraft with a blend of advanced technologies that made it versatile and highly effective in combat roles. The F-111F model, the ultimate variant of the series, became famous for its precision strike capabilities, long-range performance, and ability to operate under various conditions. This history explores the F-111F’s development, the innovations it introduced, its combat deployments, and its legacy within the U.S. Air Force.

Origins of the F-111 Program

In the early 1960s, the U.S. Department of Defense identified a need for an aircraft that could perform both tactical bombing and interception roles across multiple branches of the military. This led to the Tactical Fighter Experimental (TFX) program, aimed at creating a multi-role aircraft suitable for various missions. The U.S. Air Force required a bomber that could carry heavy payloads over long distances at both high and low altitudes. Simultaneously, the Navy wanted a fleet defense interceptor capable of protecting its carrier groups from Soviet bomber threats.

These combined requirements led to a complex design process that resulted in the F-111. General Dynamics won the contract to develop the aircraft, which introduced several groundbreaking features, such as variable-sweep wings, terrain-following radar, and afterburning turbofan engines. The F-111 was the first operational aircraft to employ variable-sweep wings, allowing it to perform optimally at both high-speed and low-speed settings. This technology enabled it to take off and land on shorter runways while achieving supersonic speeds at high altitudes.

Introduction of the F-111F

The F-111A was the first version of the Aardvark to enter service, but ongoing technological advancements and combat experience led to further modifications and improvements. The F-111F, introduced in the mid-1970s, became the most capable and sophisticated version of the series. Equipped with upgraded avionics and more powerful engines, the F-111F had superior performance and accuracy compared to its predecessors.

One of the key advancements in the F-111F was the integration of the Pave Tack targeting pod, which allowed for laser-guided munitions targeting. This system provided the F-111F with pinpoint accuracy in strike missions, making it one of the first aircraft capable of delivering precision-guided munitions with such effectiveness. The F-111F was also fitted with the TF30-P-100 afterburning turbofan engines, giving it increased thrust and better fuel efficiency, which extended its range and allowed it to carry heavier payloads.

The F-111F's avionics suite was highly advanced for its time. Its radar system allowed for all-weather capability, and its terrain-following radar enabled the aircraft to fly at very low altitudes while avoiding obstacles, making it ideal for strike missions in hostile airspace. This system, combined with its electronic countermeasure systems, provided a level of survivability that was crucial during its deployment in combat zones.

Combat Deployments and Operational History

The F-111 saw its first combat action during the Vietnam War with the F-111A model, which demonstrated the effectiveness of low-level bombing tactics. Despite some initial mechanical issues, the F-111A’s ability to deliver payloads precisely in all-weather conditions made it valuable in the conflict. However, the F-111F would later distinguish itself in other theaters of operation, proving its effectiveness and reliability as a strike aircraft.

One of the F-111F’s most famous combat missions occurred in 1986 during Operation El Dorado Canyon. Following a series of terrorist attacks linked to Libyan intelligence, President Ronald Reagan authorized an airstrike on key targets in Libya, including military installations in Tripoli and Benghazi. The F-111Fs flew from Royal Air Force bases in the United Kingdom, covering a round-trip distance of over 5,000 miles with multiple aerial refuelings. The mission was a success, with the F-111Fs delivering precise strikes on Libyan targets, demonstrating the aircraft’s long-range strike capability and precision. This mission also highlighted the F-111F’s ability to evade hostile air defenses, as it managed to penetrate Libyan radar networks and avoid interception.

The Gulf War in 1991 marked another significant chapter in the F-111F’s combat history. By this time, the F-111F was among the most advanced strike aircraft in the U.S. Air Force’s inventory, thanks to its precision-guided munitions and advanced targeting systems. During Operation Desert Storm, the F-111Fs were tasked with striking high-value targets, including Iraqi command centers, air defenses, armored divisions, and infrastructure critical to Iraq's war capabilities. Equipped with laser-guided bombs and cluster munitions, the F-111Fs played a crucial role in dismantling Iraqi military capabilities. One notable mission involved the destruction of heavily fortified bunkers that housed Iraqi command personnel and equipment. The F-111F’s ability to deliver precision strikes with minimal collateral damage made it an invaluable asset during the campaign.

During Desert Storm, the F-111Fs achieved a high success rate in their missions, with minimal losses. The aircraft’s combination of speed, range, and payload capacity allowed it to conduct deep strikes far into enemy territory, often flying at low altitudes to avoid radar detection. The F-111F’s success in Desert Storm cemented its reputation as one of the most capable strike aircraft of its time and underscored the value of precision-guided munitions in modern warfare.

Technological Innovations and Legacy

The F-111 series introduced several technological innovations that would influence future aircraft designs. Its variable-sweep wings were groundbreaking, providing both agility and stability across various speeds and altitudes. The terrain-following radar allowed it to fly at extremely low altitudes automatically, reducing the risk of detection and increasing mission survivability in heavily defended airspace. This capability was particularly useful in Cold War scenarios, where the F-111F was designed to operate behind enemy lines and deliver strikes on strategic targets.

The F-111F’s Pave Tack targeting pod represented a significant leap in targeting technology. This pod allowed the F-111F to accurately identify and engage targets using laser-guided munitions, a capability that set a new standard for precision bombing. This technology would later become a standard feature in many modern combat aircraft, proving the value of precision-guided munitions in reducing collateral damage and increasing mission success rates.

Furthermore, the F-111F’s success in combat missions influenced the development of other precision strike platforms, such as the F-15E Strike Eagle. While the F-111F was eventually retired, the concept of a fast, all-weather, precision strike aircraft continues in modern U.S. Air Force operations. Its contributions to military aviation paved the way for advancements in avionics, targeting systems, and multi-role capabilities.

Retirement and Legacy

By the 1990s, advancements in aircraft technology and changing military requirements led to the gradual phasing out of the F-111 series. The U.S. Air Force retired the F-111F in 1996, with the role of precision strike aircraft taken over by newer platforms like the F-15E Strike Eagle and the F-117 Nighthawk. These aircraft could perform similar roles with more advanced stealth and avionics systems, making the F-111F’s technology increasingly outdated despite its impressive track record.

The retirement of the F-111F marked the end of an era for the U.S. Air Force. Known for its unique design and role in precision strike missions, the F-111F left a lasting impact on military aviation. Former pilots and crew members often spoke highly of the aircraft’s reliability and performance, noting its resilience and effectiveness in high-stakes combat situations.

Today, the F-111F remains a celebrated aircraft among aviation enthusiasts and military historians. Its legacy lives on through the advancements it brought to precision bombing and strike tactics, influencing the design and operational concepts of future aircraft. Static displays of the F-111F can be found in various aviation museums, where it continues to captivate audiences with its distinctive appearance and storied history. The F-111F’s combination of speed, firepower, and technological innovation secured its place as one of the most formidable strike aircraft of its time.

Media

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

See also

Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links


General Dynamics Corporation
Jet Fighters  F-16A · F-16A ADF · F-16C
Strike Aircraft  F-111A · F-111F
Export  ▄F-16A ADF · ▄F-16A · ▄F-16AM · ␗F-16A MLU · F-16AJ · Netz · F-16D Barak II · F-16C Barak II
  F-111C
See also  SABCA

USA jet aircraft
  Fighters
F9F  F9F-2 · F9F-5 · F9F-8
F-80  F-80A-5 · F-80C-10
F-84  F-84B-26 · F-84F · F-84G-21-RE
F-86  F-86A-5 · F-86F-25 · F-86F-2 · F-86F-35
F-89  F-89B · F-89D
F-100  F-100D
F-104  F-104A · F-104C
F-4  F-4C Phantom II · F-4E Phantom II · F-4J Phantom II · F-4S Phantom II
F-5  F-5A · F-5C · F-5E · F-20A
F-8  F8U-2 · F-8E
F-14  F-14A Early · ▄F-14A IRIAF · F-14B
F-15  F-15A · F-15C MSIP II · F-15E
F-16  F-16A · F-16A ADF · F-16C
Other  P-59A · F2H-2 · F3D-1 · F3H-2 · F4D-1 · F11F-1
  Strike Aircraft
FJ-4  FJ-4B · FJ-4B VMF-232
A-4  A-4B · A-4E Early
A-7  A-7D · A-7E · A-7K
AV-8  AV-8A · AV-8C · AV-8B Plus · AV-8B (NA)
A-10  A-10A · A-10A Late · A-10C
F-111  F-111A · F-111F
Other  A-6E TRAM · F-105D · F-117
  Bombers
B-57  B-57A · B-57B

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