Hobby Master: 1/72 F-111F Aardvark “The Aardvark Retires” 27th FW, Cannon AFB, 27th July 1996 – Diecast Model

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.

Activated on January 15, 1941 as the 11th Reconnaissance Squadron it became the 524th Fighter Squadron in 1944. Between 1960 and 1972 it was equipped with the General Dynamics F-111A/D/E models. In 1992 they received the F-111 E and F variants replacing the earlier models. To acknowledge the General Dynamics F-111 retirement 74–0187 was given a special nose art scheme. On July 27, 1996 the F-111 unofficial name “Aardvark” became official. In September 1996 74–0187 was sent to Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Center at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz. (Bone Yard).

Features:

• 1/72 scale pre-finished.
• Die-cast metal with a minimum of plastic.
• Professionally painted.
• All markings are pad applied for superb results.
• Crew figure.
• Model has variable-sweep wings that work.
• Comes with display stand.
• Landing gear can be displayed up or down.
• Extremely sought after by collectors.

Specifics:

• Scale: 1:72
• Aircraft Type: Fixed Wing
• Era: Cold War