1/72 GD F-111C Aardvark
 A8-138 Pave Tack Prototype 1984 - 85

Scale 1:72

Livery:

•  RAAF No. 1 Sqn

Features:

• Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
• Opening canopies, revelaing detailed cockpit interiors.
• Interchangeable extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
• Poseable presention stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
• Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads

Dimensions:

• Length  31.12 cm
• Width  29.85 cm

The General Dynamics F-111 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 but the RAAF continued to use theirs.

The AVQ-26 Pave Tack pod is used to visually locate targets for laser illumination and accurate bomb delivery. The pod is carried inside the F-111 on the rotating bomb bay cradle which allows the aircraft to maintain supersonic speeds because of the lack of drag. This pod makes it possible to designate targets at night or in bad weather to deliver laser-guided bombs on their intended targets. F-111C A8-138, from No. 1 Sqn., RAAF was the prototype for this adaptation. The aircraft completed its maiden flight in 1968 and was delivered to the RAAF in late 1973.