Academy 12355. USAF F-111A Aardvark "Vietnam War". 1:48 Scale

USN USAF General Dynamics F-111A Aardvark"Vietnam War", 1:48 Scale

ACA-12355 Academy Models

The General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark is a retired supersonic, medium-range, multirole combat aircraft. Production models of the F-111 had roles that included attack, strategic bombing (including nuclear weapons capabilities), reconnaissance and electronic warfare. Aardvark comes from a South African animal that has a long nose and hugs the terrain. It is an Afrikaans word that translates literally as "earth pig"—hence the aircraft's "Pig" nickname during its Australian service with the RAAF.

The F-111A was the initial production version of the F-111. Early A-models used the TF30-P-1 engine. Most A-models used the TF30-P-3 engine with 12,000 lbf (53 kN) dry and 18,500 lbf (82 kN) afterburning thrust and "Triple Plow I" variable intakes, providing a maximum speed of Mach 2.3 (1,450 mph, 2,300 km/h) at altitude. The variant had a maximum takeoff weight of 92,500 lb (42,000 kg) and an empty weight of 45,200 lb (20,500 kg).

The F-111A's Mark I avionics suite included the General Electric AN/APQ-113 attack radar mated to a separate Texas Instruments AN/APQ-110 terrain-following radar lower in the nose and a Litton AJQ-20 inertial navigation and nav/attack system. The Terrain Following Radar (TFR) was integrated into the automatic flight control system, allowing for "hands-off" flight at high speeds and low levels (down to 200 ft or 61 m).

A total of 159 F-111As were produced, including 30 pre-production aircraft that were rebuilt to production standards

Its greatest advantage for survivability was its speed. The wings were straight for take-offs, landings or slow speed flight. By sweeping it’s wings rearward during flight it could exceed twice the speed of sound (Mach 2). The Aardvark was primarily used in Vietnam as a bomber. It could fly at very low altitude and hit targets in bad weather.

Kit features include:

• Variable-sweep wing supersonic bomber
• Air-to-ground weapons
• Improved nose gear parts
• Metal pitot tube
• Clear canopy
• Decals/markings for 4 versions

Suitable for ages 14 and up. Scale 1:48. Completed length of kit is 475mm and height 117mm.

Glue and paint are required for this model. (Not included).