General Dynamics F-111

The Aussie air-force are the only ones still using them. They have developed patches to go over any cracks on the outer skin, making them look a bit worse for wear, but will keep them in service till 2020. One hit a pelican after takeoff about 2 days ago, bending the nose downward 90deg. Still landed it though, there tough as nails! An all time classic!

Agree!!!! But TSR.2 lose by its government .

nice but its nothing compared to the TSR 2,

I spent my entire childhood watching these every day. I was underneath their route between Upper Heyford and Lakenheath and they passed over at about 2000 feet. Nice memories.

I worked with Jeff Boren at Upper Heyford

Great plane. This is the kind of ofensive weapon that brings the adversary to the negotiation table. The Soviet Union could not produce enough quantity of planes in this category, nor an effective defense against it. Result: The cold war was over.

One reason is the maintenance cost of hydraulics systems for the variable geometry wings. Same reason for the retirement of F-14's Tomcats; 40 hours of maintenance for 1 hour of flight is too expensive.

The other reason is explained in the video: negotiations to end the cold war. They retire an ofensive weapon that the old Warsov Pact block couldn't stop.

Only a missile with Mach 3 speed and last generation guidance could cath this bird, which they lacked.

This was a great aircraft. In my opinion, this was the most versatile aircraft ever made from fighting to recon. I grew up on these. Sad day when they went.

I still dont understand why they retired this beast

What a badass bomber - awesome

I do so miss the Ardvark.

The mini Lancer as i'd use to call it.

You must admit, it greatly resembles a B1 lancer

great

De-commission of this aircraft was made mostly by cost factors. They could be refited with more advanced engines and avionics but the services who use it have today more effective alternatives.

Even John Peel's dour tones can't make the 'Vaark dull.
Miss seeing them in the circuit at Heyford.

my fav' featur is the "Fart of fire" fuel dump