Beyond The Sprues
Modelling => Ideas & Inspiration => Aero-space => Topic started by: GTX_Admin on January 26, 2012, 01:48:19 PM
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Folks,
An area for your General Dynamics F-111 Ideas and Inspiration. To start with an inspiring picture of the old Pig.
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/000-143-793_220A8-12720F11120A-A20a.jpg)
Regards,
Greg
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One I did a while ago...a STOVL F-111:
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/F-111V2.jpg)
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First thought that comes to mind is re-engining it with F110 engines (GD-Ft. Worth did study this intently and it was quite doable), particularly if the variant selected acquires a high inlet distortion tolerant fan derived from that of its F118 sibling. Beyond that, a comprehensive avionics upgrade and a "glass cockpit" seem like obvious moves. Beyond that, perhaps converting it to have a deployable probe and drogue refueling set-up (as proposed for F-111K or production F-111B) in addition to or in place of the flying boom receptacle.
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The idea of re-engining with GE110s was also looked at for the RAAF F-111s. In the end though, it just wasn't cost effective.
If you look at my Greater Australia (http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=3.0) story though, I had this happen much earlier in their lives...at the same time as Australia acquired F-14Bs.
Regards,
Greg
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That works well. I wonder, would 1/48 scale Super Bug inlets work for replacing the standard F-11 inlets in 1/72? You'd reduce max. speed since you wouldn't have a variable inlet, but I could see advantages.
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Another idea: a RN FAA F-111L (UK variant of the F-111B fitted with TF41s) carrying SeaEagle ASMs...
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Thought for the afterburning TF41 (which, based on a 1967 AW&ST article was quite powerful having demonstrated 27,000 lb thrust in full burner) would to a joint RR/Allison/SNECMA venture with a nozzle similar to that of the M53 in the Mirage 2000. If I'm reading Tommy Thompson's Ginter book on the F-111B, the production refueling probe wasn't that different from what was proposed for the F-111K.
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Squared off intakes as seen on Vigilante, Foxbat, Eagle, Tomcat, Super Hornet to name several examples.
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What flashes to mind is building 1/72 F-111 with 1/48 F-22 front & rear wings.
Bill
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What flashes to mind is building 1/72 F-111 with 1/48 F-22 front & rear wings.
Why stop with that, may as well add the twin tails too.
Attached are images of a stealth what-if F-111 from some model show, builder unknown, event unknown.
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Oh Yes - so fine !
USAF should buy some.
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Here's some along that line that I drew a while back:
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/F111X.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/F111X2.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/F111X3.jpg)
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Business Jet Development:
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/d3fc00f0.jpg)
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Another variation - this time with a tandem cockpit:
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/9102cdbd.jpg)
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Did these a while back for the other site. The "Sea Vark"; and amalgam of the F-111 and the F-14 to make a supersonic, carrier capable, heavy attack bird.
F/A-111N of VAH-9 "The Hoot Owls" - Line Bird - TPS Scheme 1
(http://i647.photobucket.com/albums/uu194/CliffyB/Artwork/FA-111N-VAH-91979a.jpg)
F/A-111N of VAH-7 "The Peacemakers" - CAG Bird - TPS Scheme 2
(http://i647.photobucket.com/albums/uu194/CliffyB/Artwork/FA-111N-VAH-7CAG19882.jpg)
F/A-111N of VAH-11 "The Checkertails" - Line Bird - TPS Scheme 2
(http://i647.photobucket.com/albums/uu194/CliffyB/Artwork/FA-111N-VAH-1119913.jpg)
F/A-111N of VFC-111 "The Sundowners" - Line Bird - Flanker Blues
(http://i647.photobucket.com/albums/uu194/CliffyB/Artwork/FA-111N-VFC-1111992.jpg)
F/A-111N of VFC-111 "The Sundowners" - Line Bird - Arctic Green Scheme
(http://i647.photobucket.com/albums/uu194/CliffyB/Artwork/FA-111N-VFC-111ArcticGreen1993.jpg)
Line art courtesy of Coops213's blanks found here http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=25.0 (http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=25.0)
Enjoy guys!
-Mike
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Line art courtesy of Coops213's blanks found here [url]http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php/topic,28426.0.html[/url] ([url]http://www.whatifmodelers.com/index.php/topic,28426.0.html[/url])
Chris's blanks available here: http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=25.0 (http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=25.0)
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Amended; thanks Greg!
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Dont really know were to post this so... I was wondering how would you modernize the F-111 so that it stays a viable strike aircraft in 2020? Avionics, engines etc.
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The usual I expect. Radar upgraded to one of the newer APG sets, modern engines along the lines of the F404, glass cockpit instead of analog dials, etc. Perhaps even replace the cockpit escape module with conventional bang-seats like they did with the B-1B.
The real problem is the airframe fatigue which I believe was the killer for the type in USAF & RAAF service.
Regards,
John
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http://www.ausairpower.net/TE-F-111-Supercruise-2001.html (http://www.ausairpower.net/TE-F-111-Supercruise-2001.html)
There are also some really good profiles of super F-111s and I have seen a build of a stealthy vark somwhere....
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Thank you for a very interesting link
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From a purely WHIFF standpoint:
I agree with the above comment about conventional bang seats replacing the capsule; it certainly would free up some extra space in the region for new avionics or just a weight savings.
The old engines would definitely have to go as well.
I also think a redesign of the main landing gear, in the vein of the proposed F-111H would also be part of the deal. That would certainly free up some internal space for avionics, fuel or an extended weapons bay.
The variable geometry aspect would be another matter though; it's not exactly the stealthiest technology ever applied to an aircraft. It's also a lot of extra moving parts and weight.
To really go out on the F-111 Whiffing limb, I'd be inclined to delete the variable geometry aspect entirely in favour of a fixed wing layout .
If you delete weight penalties like the escape capsule, wing sweep mechanisms and overly complex main landing gear unit and replace them all with more conventional arrangements and marry it up to modern engines with supercruise; I think you'd keep all the favourable aspects of the F-111 intact and gain valuable internal space to improve it.
Variable geometry really has fallen by the wayside as technologies go. No new designs based on it have come about in a long time and all that have been based on it are retired or at least quite long in the tooth.
I think simplification of the engineering would be the key to taking the F-111 to 2020.
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[url]http://www.ausairpower.net/TE-F-111-Supercruise-2001.html[/url] ([url]http://www.ausairpower.net/TE-F-111-Supercruise-2001.html[/url])
There are also some really good profiles of super F-111s and I have seen a build of a stealthy vark somwhere....
Just be careful using Carlo Kopp as a serious reference - he is widely viewed by those actually in the industry as a nutter (there is a reason he is referred to as Carlo Kook by some)! He trys to sound convincing and fools a lot of people but at the end of the day many of his ideas are totally impractical. Moreover, he fails to grasp the realities of technical, financial or operational constraints.
Regards,
Greg
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An important question to first ask here: From what point are you talking about starting the modernisation? If you start it in 1990 you will get a different set of answers to 2000 or 2010. Also do you want it through to 2020 or beyond (say 2030).
The main areas to look at would be:
Engines - easiest change here is probably to change the TF30s to GE110s (this was looked at for the RAAF's F-111s)
Avionics - main change here would actually to make them more supportable (though that often comes with capability advantages as well) - for one, I would look at replacing the Pave Tack Pod
Airframe - definite fatigue issues here, though not so easy to solve, though at the same time there are ways. I would also want to see some LO technologies applied.
BTW, I am moving this to the F-111 Ideas and Inspiration thread.
Regards,
Greg
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I was thinking a modernization program somewhere around 2005-10
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I have seen a build of a stealthy vark somwhere....
See reply #9, page one of this topic for two images of a stealth F-111
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[url]http://www.ausairpower.net/TE-F-111-Supercruise-2001.html[/url] ([url]http://www.ausairpower.net/TE-F-111-Supercruise-2001.html[/url])
There are also some really good profiles of super F-111s and I have seen a build of a stealthy vark somwhere....
Just be careful using Carlo Kopp as a serious reference - he is widely viewed by those actually in the industry as a nutter (there is a reason he is referred to as Carlo Kook by some)! He trys to sound convincing and fools a lot of people but at the end of the day many of his ideas are totally impractical. Moreover, he fails to grasp the realities of technical, financial or operational constraints.
Regards,
Greg
Preaching to the quire! I think since this is all about being imaginative he is the perfect source ;)
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Squared off intakes as seen on Vigilante, Foxbat, Eagle, Tomcat, Super Hornet to name several examples.
... or maybe an F-35-style DSI inlet?
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Squared off intakes as seen on Vigilante, Foxbat, Eagle, Tomcat, Super Hornet to name several examples.
... or maybe an F-35-style DSI inlet?
if we're talking about reworking or even CILOP-ing existing airframes, I rather like the idea of using scaled up "Super Bug" inlets (they are actually "stealthier" than the F/A-18A-D inlets) as an update. It's got the same speed range and works with the existing airframe geometry. A DSI inlet would require rather more airframe redesign.
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The usual I expect. Radar upgraded to one of the newer APG sets, modern engines along the lines of the F404, glass cockpit instead of analog dials, etc. Perhaps even replace the cockpit escape module with conventional bang-seats like they did with the B-1B.
The real problem is the airframe fatigue which I believe was the killer for the type in USAF & RAAF service.
Regards,
John
It would take a full-up CILOP (Conversion In Lieu Of Procurement) program to properly upgrade them and "zero time" the airframe. The engines I can see going with F110-GE-132s as the most powerful and suitable fit out there, though I might consider "borrowing" the fan design from the B-2's F118 since it's very highly tolerant of inlet distortion. If you are re-doing the airframe, you could probably redesign the cockpit for standard ejection seats in the process. Radar upgrades would be interesting because you've got a very large radome that would allow a very large array of Transmitter-Receiver Modules; this would go along well with a general avionics upgrade that would most likely also see all the wiring and cabling replaced. Other demands for volume permitting, you might also look at fitting the F-35's EOTS, with suitable windowed housing, to replace bulkier electro-optical systems. I'd say that replacing the inlets depends on a cost/benefit analysis and, unless you really need maximum speeds in the Mach 2.5 range, I'd go with my suggestion above of scaled Super Hornet inlets.
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Squared off intakes as seen on Vigilante, Foxbat, Eagle, Tomcat, Super Hornet to name several examples.
... or maybe an F-35-style DSI inlet?
That might work if you can use 48th scale F-35 intake parts on a 72nd scale F-111 otherwise it might require building from scratch.
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Cool photo of one of the F-111B prototypes:
(http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SiTtkHBJ7Uc/TxXb3Dyv14I/AAAAAAAABys/x_Xq8GM06jk/s1600/F-111B+Short+Nose+IFR+Doors.jpg)
From Tommy H. Thomason's Blog
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Hey great F-111B photo find Greg!!
She sure looks different to our F-111C/G's :(
Any chance of a 3-view profile drawing of the basic F-111 fuselage, mated to the wings and tail plane of the North American A-5 Vigilante??? (Two of my favourite planes in the one ;) )
M.A.D
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The usual I expect. Radar upgraded to one of the newer APG sets, modern engines along the lines of the F404, glass cockpit instead of analog dials, etc. Perhaps even replace the cockpit escape module with conventional bang-seats like they did with the B-1B.
The real problem is the airframe fatigue which I believe was the killer for the type in USAF & RAAF service.
Regards,
John
It would take a full-up CILOP (Conversion In Lieu Of Procurement) program to properly upgrade them and "zero time" the airframe. The engines I can see going with F110-GE-132s as the most powerful and suitable fit out there, though I might consider "borrowing" the fan design from the B-2's F118 since it's very highly tolerant of inlet distortion. If you are re-doing the airframe, you could probably redesign the cockpit for standard ejection seats in the process. Radar upgrades would be interesting because you've got a very large radome that would allow a very large array of Transmitter-Receiver Modules; this would go along well with a general avionics upgrade that would most likely also see all the wiring and cabling replaced. Other demands for volume permitting, you might also look at fitting the F-35's EOTS, with suitable windowed housing, to replace bulkier electro-optical systems. I'd say that replacing the inlets depends on a cost/benefit analysis and, unless you really need maximum speeds in the Mach 2.5 range, I'd go with my suggestion above of scaled Super Hornet inlets.
I think Evan has covered it comprehensively. I hate to allow the real world to interfere here but it really does come down to the cost effectiveness ( in fact some upgrades might be driven purely by that requirement). If you were looking at both the RAAF and USAF then it is easier. If just the RAAF, it becomes very difficult ( trust me, I know from experience). The best way to make the business case is to aim to have the upgrade take you through to about 2030.
One advantage/requirement you might have is to use the upgraded EO targeting system (either the EOTS or even a Sniper or similar system either in pod form or even repackaged into the airframe) to all the internal weapons bay to be reinstated.
Apart from that, introduce some LO features and make greater use of stand-off weapons such as AGM-158.
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One Chris did for me:
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/Ro.jpg)
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F-111B Phoenix Trials (click on picture for larger view):
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5268/5752940556_95351a94a9_b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/63014123@N02/5752940556/sizes/o/in/photostream/)
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Has anyone ever tried to model Boeing's contender for the TFX program?
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/F111/BoeingModel818TFX-2.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/F111/BoeingModel818TFX-1.jpg)
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/F111/image013.jpg)
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First thought I got about Boeing's contender is if there was a model, it might bash well into a seaplane.
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I'm wondering if you could take a standard F-111 and some parts such as the intakes from an F-14 and bash them together with enough putty to make Ron (aka sotoolslinger) proud ...and get a close approximation of it.
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Could almost pass as an operational photo:
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-I-AnuhP8uEM/Tx7Sg07jV_I/AAAAAAAAB08/Yty1J6eQqFg/s1600/F-111B+14Mar68+Pt+Mugu.jpg)
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^ Nice photo! I have 2 F-111Bs in the stash (the Revell one?). One will be VF-96, the other, who knows?
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I've been hoping HobbyBoss might release a F-111B in 1/48...
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(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/Canadian%20MiGs/FB-111HBobCunninghamArtworkL.jpg)
Bob Cunningham Artwork of FB-111H originally posted over on Secret Projects and sourced via Mark Nankivil.
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:)
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Has anyone ever tried to model Boeing's contender for the TFX program?
Well, I know where, 40 years ago, the Boeing TFX wind tunnel models were, complete with lots of stores options.
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Here's some along that line that I drew a while back:
([url]http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/F111X.jpg[/url])
([url]http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/F111X2.jpg[/url])
([url]http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/F111X3.jpg[/url])
Long time no play mate!! Thanks for your message.......... I've always liked your 'advanced' Pig designs! I would love to see these in colour!!
M.A.D
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Upnorth - I also think a redesign of the main landing gear, in the vein of the proposed F-111H would also be part of the deal. That would certainly free up some internal space for avionics, fuel or an extended weapons bay.
Agree 100% my friend!!!!
A landing gear arrangement like that of the Su-24 Fencer, Jaguar and Mirage F1 would look and be very practical - as you said freeing up the under fuselage for weapons/stores - allowing wing pylons to either be clean or used to carry drop tanks! The landing gear of the actual Pig must be significantly heavy in its own right!!
M.A.D
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Another variation - this time with a tandem cockpit:
([url]http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/9102cdbd.jpg[/url])
Always thought that a tandem-seat cockpit arrangement would allow for an all-over lighter aircraft! But its partly due to the side-by-side cockpit arrangement of the Pig, which dictated its overall fuselage width - hence its great internal fuselage capacity = the F-111 excellent operational range!
Here is an actual General Dynamics desk-top model of a tandem-seat F-111 study.
M.A.D
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Regarding the Pig's landing gear, could the weight have been a carry over from the original TFX requirement? After all, the F-111B didn't have major changes to its main gear, which would suggest a heavier-than-required landing gear for a land-based machine.
Regards,
John
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G'day John ..... long time no talk :(
You could be right mate, as the TFX landing gear (I'm assuming!!) would have been more of a want / requirement of the USAF. But saying this as I know you already well appreciate, the heavy duty landing gear would have (again I assume) would have served the F-111B well in its controlled crash landing - aka carrier landings! The other thing that I could never get my head around was the Pig's massive air-brake system .... like this was literally the size of the proverbial barn door, which in itself was tied up with the main landing gear (similar I suppose to that of the A-7 Corsair II) - This arrangement, along with the massive 'through-type' landing gear truly negated the use of the under fuselage :(
P.S. Great to hear from you again Mav!!
M.A.D
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(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/panavia300.jpg)
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/F111_f14.jpg)
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/F14_F111.jpg)
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/F4_F111.jpg)
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(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/F111_f4.jpg)
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/f111_fixwing.jpg)
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One of these days I want to scratch build (unless someone wants to provide a conversion...looking in your direction gregozmods ::)) of a FB-111H in 1/48.
(http://dc392.4shared.com/img/Li4YZ3C7/s7/FB-111H-6.jpg)
(http://dc124.4shared.com/img/Eq11fN9V/s7/FB-111H-4.jpg)
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I wonder how one would go grafting a F-14 front fuselage onto a F-111...this might provide an alternative USAF F-111 especially since the USAF originally wanted tandem seating without escape capsule.
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Regarding the Pig's landing gear, could the weight have been a carry over from the original TFX requirement? After all, the F-111B didn't have major changes to its main gear, which would suggest a heavier-than-required landing gear for a land-based machine.
I always understood that the F-111's landing gear arrangement was partially result of the desire to have relatively large tyres given its anticipated loads/weights...this then drove the arrangement/positioning.
BTW, whilst the F-111A had tires that were 47-inches in diameter and 18-inches wide (the same-size tires as C-130s), the tires on the Navy’s F-111B were only 42 x 13 inches.
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Matting F-111 and F-15. Fuselage widened.
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/F-15-F111_02.jpg)
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(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/FB111_f4.jpg)
This implies some kind of scalorama:
F-111 1/72 and F4 1/48
F-111 1/144 and F4 1/100
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If you are an F-111 fan this might be of interest:
"The Final Flight" - PREVIEW - ONBOARD FOOTAGE RAAF F-111C A8-125 HD (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzD4cv-OU_s#)
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'Coulda sworn I'd already posted this one in this thread. ;)
(http://i729.photobucket.com/albums/ww291/joncarrfarrelly/BTS/USAF_MRA-111_01.png)
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I thought you did too...
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'Coulda sworn I'd already posted this one in this thread. ;)
([url]http://i729.photobucket.com/albums/ww291/joncarrfarrelly/BTS/USAF_MRA-111_01.png[/url])
There are some promising ideas here! ;)
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Some potentially interesting viewing:
http://youtu.be/9gyIhOGyGA8 (http://youtu.be/9gyIhOGyGA8)
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Cool artwork for the F-111 fan:
(https://scontent-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t31/1553053_10201663109528700_1765690124_o.jpg)
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And this:
(http://38.media.tumblr.com/263024fb2cd35112a32119a401fde176/tumblr_mx6jtconP51qewrfro1_500.jpg)
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Does anyone have any info on the designs, i.e. Boeing, that lost out to the General Dynamics design?
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Does anyone have any info on the designs, i.e. Boeing, that lost out to the General Dynamics design?
They have extensive threads on the topic over at Secret Projects forum. http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/board,17.0.html (http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/board,17.0.html) You have to join to see the pictures though.
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Thanks, I am a member / lurker there so will have a look.
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This is the thread to look at: http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,526.0.html (http://www.secretprojects.co.uk/forum/index.php/topic,526.0.html)
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I dare anyone to try to model this as a diorama…
F111 Disposal from Thiess Pty Ltd on Vimeo (http://player.vimeo.com/video/86663113)
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Poor ol' girl! Give a lifetime of service & look what it gets you! :icon_crap:
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Poor ol' girl! Give a lifetime of service & look what it gets you! :icon_crap:
Those guys seemed pretty respectful, and compared to:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9W7pph9KhYY (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9W7pph9KhYY)
much easier on the fans
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Cool artwork for the F-111 fan:
(https://scontent-a-ord.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/t31/1553053_10201663109528700_1765690124_o.jpg)
I've seen a T-shirt with this on it. The caption reads:
"Warsaw Pact Central Heating"
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Poor ol' girl! Give a lifetime of service & look what it gets you! :icon_crap:
It's only metal... :icon_punal:
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Why didn't someone smelt all that metal down and recycle it?
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Poor ol' girl! Give a lifetime of service & look what it gets you! :icon_crap:
It's only metal... :icon_punal:
I know that but the emotion is the same as when an old soldier dies - inevitable but still sad.
I feel sorry for people who can't feel that, there must be a huge hollow space in their souls.
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I know what you mean. Still it seems to be a waste to just bury them. You don't want to know what they do to the old B-52s at the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group.
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Poor ol' girl! Give a lifetime of service & look what it gets you! :icon_crap:
In a hundred years time the aviation archaeologists will be happy exhuming them, someone will have a plan to restore at least one to flying service and the others will provide valuable artefacts for souvenir hunters...
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People, get over it. Talk about digging them up etc is ridiculous. Also remember that there are copies still around. In Australia:
11 F-111Cs were retained as heritage assets. Five will be placed on display at RAAF bases.
A8-125, RAAF Museum
A8-126, Aviation Heritage Centre, RAAF Base Amberley
A8-132, RAAF Base Edinburgh
A8-138, RAAF Base Amberley, to become a gate guard
A8-142, RAAF Base Wagga
On 4 October 2012, six more cosmetically restored and repainted aircraft were unveiled at RAAF Base Amberley for display at private aviation museums. Ownership is retained by the Australian government and aircraft undergo continual maintenance and non-destructive testing. They were loaned to:
Aviation Historical Society Northern Territory Darwin, Northern Territory
Evans Head Memorial Aerodrome Heritage Aviation Association, Evans Head, New South Wales
A8-148 – Fighter World, RAAF Base Williamtown.
Historical Aircraft Restoration Society, Illawarra Regional Airport
Queensland Air Museum, Caloundra Airport
South Australian Aviation Museum
The Australian Flying Corps and Royal Australian Air Force Association would also receive a crew module of A8-131. The crew modules of A8-135, A8-136 and A8-137 are also held at the Aviation Heritage Centre, RAAF Base Amberley.
A8-130 was put on display at the Pacific Aviation Museum Pearl Harbor in September 2013
There are also the US ones still on display around the place.
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People get all emotional about the F-111 but I prefer to look at the opportunity cost of the type verses what we actually really needed or would have been perfectly good enough and wonder if the ADF would actually have been better off without them.
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People get all emotional about the F-111 but I prefer to look at the opportunity cost of the type verses what we actually really needed or would have been perfectly good enough and wonder if the ADF would actually have been better off without them.
People get all emotional over ""old"" airplanes period. They seem to think they will do in a more advanced world ---
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After posting the video above, look what someone on another forum posted:
The model was built by a volunteer at the RAAF AAHC and it is currently on display there.
(http://rs1134.pbsrc.com/albums/m607/Aardvark111/F-111/WP_20141120_001.jpg~c200?t=1416509156)
(http://rs1134.pbsrc.com/albums/m607/Aardvark111/F-111/WP_20141120_004.jpg~c200?t=1416509178)
(http://rs1134.pbsrc.com/albums/m607/Aardvark111/F-111/WP_20141120_008.jpg~c200?t=1416509246)
(http://rs1134.pbsrc.com/albums/m607/Aardvark111/F-111/WP_20141120_003.jpg~c200?t=1416509169)
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What did they do with the wings?
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Looking at my selection of TSR.2 detailing and mod sets, how about a F-111K with Blue Water IRBMs on the inboard pylons? Or a FB-111K with the long-span wings and carrying Blue Waters on the two most inboard pylons on each side?
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Looking at my selection of TSR.2 detailing and mod sets, how about a F-111K with Blue Water IRBMs on the inboard pylons? Or a FB-111K with the long-span wings and carrying Blue Waters on the two most inboard pylons on each side?
I like your thinking…and one can get Blue Waters.
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I need to do a comparison of Blue Water with SRAM to see if I can fit two or four on a FB-111K. For a tactical application with the F-111K, how about a modernized AGM-78 (ground attack variant of the AIM-47) based on an AIM-54 instead (or the proposed AIM-47B which looks very much like an AIM-54).
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An interesting video:
https://youtu.be/IKv6yv0q9hU
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Formation "Dump & Burn":
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/t31.0-8/892638_443256819090342_737710491_o.jpg)
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I have no possibility to make a drawing but what if F-111 had a forward swept variable wings and canard like a Switchblade?
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Formation "Dump & Burn":
(https://fbcdn-sphotos-e-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-frc3/t31.0-8/892638_443256819090342_737710491_o.jpg)
Or formation farting, you can never be too sure with Defence Force food. ;)
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F-111 FSVGW
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F-111 FSVGW
Very cool. Could be twin tail finned too (like mig -31)
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<...> what if F-111 had a forward swept variable wings and canard like a Switchblade?
That sounded way too awesome to pass up, so I threw something together. Quickly. Which is why some things don't line up quite as they should and why the moving surfaces of the wings are still as per the original model. No clue whether it would actually work (probably not!). I've added some small (too small?) control surfaces next to the nozzles (S-37 Berkut-style)
I imagine the wings and canards are on the same level. If you moved the wings down while keeping the canards on the LEX, you could possibly have Viggen-style canards are even all-moving canards.
(http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m309/ChernayaAkula/WhIf/F-111Switchblade_zpsmbjzonv9.png)
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<...> what if F-111 had a forward swept variable wings and canard like a Switchblade?
That sounded way too awesome to pass up, so I threw something together. Quickly. Which is why some things don't line up quite as they should and why the moving surfaces of the wings are still as per the original model. No clue whether it would actually work (probably not!). I've added some small (too small?) control surfaces next to the nozzles (S-37 Berkut-style)
I imagine the wings and canards are on the same level. If you moved the wings down while keeping the canards on the LEX, you could possibly have Viggen-style canards are even all-moving canards.
([url]http://i107.photobucket.com/albums/m309/ChernayaAkula/WhIf/F-111Switchblade_zpsmbjzonv9.png[/url])
Can I built it? Please, please 😀
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Is it just me, or does a little work need to be done on the flight controls on the wings, etc? ???
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Can I built it? Please, please 😀
Why, yes, of course! :) I don't know whether the concept makes any sense, but it sure looks spectacular.
Is it just me, or does a little work need to be done on the flight controls on the wings, etc? ???
Yeah. Which is why I wrote...
<...> I threw something together. Quickly. Which is <...> why the moving surfaces of the wings are still as per the original model. <...>
;) I was just too lazy to change the slats, flaps, etc. The wings are actually even from a top view drawing and adapted to fit a botton view drawing, as that made it easier to copy the wing sweep details (which are hidden in the normal bottom view).
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Sorry! I noticed. I should have used this little fella ;) to show I wasn't serious.
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Sooo...I have to dig out my Zhengdefu 1/48 F-111E, built wings with internal mechanisms, join top and bottom fuselage parts together and then cut it and glue it differently. Piece of cake :D
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I'm thinking...how to make verticals like in yf-23 but movable. In other words how to make them one with wings when wings are in retracted position. Like in F/A- 37 Talon from "Stealth" movie :)
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(https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/12938227_10153474983383344_7303620184339583398_n.jpg?oh=fc2c188f24321804e2e373367b0497c5&oe=57BB94C7)
Updated - Stealthy F-111
Source: Facebook - AIRCRAFT THAT NEVER WERE AND WHAT IFs GROUP
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(https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/12938227_10153474983383344_7303620184339583398_n.jpg?oh=fc2c188f24321804e2e373367b0497c5&oe=57BB94C7)
Updated - Stealthy F-111
Source: Facebook - AIRCRAFT THAT NEVER WERE AND WHAT IFs GROUP
If I recall correctly that is the artists impression of the naval ATX/F-22 prior to the projects cancellation !!!!!!!!! damn the combinations of typos and auto correct!
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(https://scontent.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/12938227_10153474983383344_7303620184339583398_n.jpg?oh=fc2c188f24321804e2e373367b0497c5&oe=57BB94C7)
Updated - Stealthy F-111
Source: Facebook - AIRCRAFT THAT NEVER WERE AND WHAT IFs GROUP
If I recall correctly that is the artists impression of the naval ATX/F-22 prior to the projects calculation
I sit corrected.
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Sorry didn't mean to be a smart alec, I just recall that image because I loved it so much and was sad when it was cancelled. It was I believe the conceptional replacement for the F-14 before the SH came along and long term planning for the JSF kicked off. To me it would have actually been an ideal replacement for the RAAFs F-111 with only the Legacy Bugs being replaced with F-35A.
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It would be great to kit bash an F-22 and F-111 to make this, unfortunately, I have neither the time, skill, or confidence to do it.
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Have F-22, not sure about F-111. The " unfortunately, I have neither the time, skill, or confidence to do it." goes for me too.
Be heck of a cool kitbash for someone to do !
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Have F-22, not sure about F-111. The " unfortunately, I have neither the time, skill, or confidence to do it." goes for me too.
Be heck of a cool kitbash for someone to do !
Well I am dumb enough to say I'll give it a try. I have most of the larger the bits.
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I'd like to see this F-22/F-111 hybrid in plastic. I'll add the idea and the donor kits needed to my "wish list" of WhIf projects, just in case...
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I would say F-14 and F-22 ----
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I sit corrected.
I had never thought of that as an F-111 replacement. Good thinking
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Some more NATF inspiration for you:
(http://www.ausairpower.net/USN/NATF-2S.jpg)
(http://www.ausairpower.net/USN/NATF-3S.jpg)
(http://www.ausairpower.net/USN/NATF-4S.jpg)
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vg f23 ;)
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([url]http://www.ausairpower.net/USN/NATF-2S.jpg[/url])
Sort of gives a clue on how to do a two-seater F-35
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([url]http://www.ausairpower.net/USN/NATF-2S.jpg[/url])
Sort of gives a clue on how to do a two-seater F-35
Well, kinda - the structural split on the present F-35 is just aft of the present cockpit; adding a second cockpit would have the back one at that location and the forward one and nose moved forward. Not impossible, given the modular nature of the structure (if you wanted to pay the price in unique engineering and weight, you could conceivably have a F-35A derivative with both flying boom and probe and drogue refueling capability).
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Single seat F-111
(http://i1080.photobucket.com/albums/j340/ysi_maniac/Drawing/F-111_1seat.jpg) (http://s1080.photobucket.com/user/ysi_maniac/media/Drawing/F-111_1seat.jpg.html)
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Neat. That would be a F-55.5? ;)
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Neat. That would be a F-55.5? ;)
(https://encrypted-tbn1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRs3jgzgi5PPYssL2sW7uqGjmqb7l8NxqNSlvFaTD_VTLZ55JY5)
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What about adding the dorsal intake arrangement of the Boeing Model 818 design submission to the TFX competition to the General Dynamics design?
M.A.D
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Some different Aussie Pigs
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4485/36937243394_4e43bd5f8a_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Yh22A3)RF-111C-2 (https://flic.kr/p/Yh22A3) by David Freeman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/153018533@N06/), on Flickr
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4452/37598834876_749d14a9eb_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZhtRFJ)RF-111C-1 (https://flic.kr/p/ZhtRFJ) by David Freeman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/153018533@N06/), on Flickr
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4482/36937242864_835d9058d7_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/Yh22qU)EF-111-2 (https://flic.kr/p/Yh22qU) by David Freeman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/153018533@N06/), on Flickr
(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4461/37598834416_a046a97c4b_z.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/ZhtRxN)EF-111-1 (https://flic.kr/p/ZhtRxN) by David Freeman (https://www.flickr.com/photos/153018533@N06/), on Flickr
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:smiley:
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(https://i.pinimg.com/originals/d1/e1/53/d1e15386fa1857f1331d95dac88cafef.jpg)
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(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48589039577_7304c52ca3_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2h2DwDF)
EF-111M-04.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h2DwDF) by Big Gimper (https://www.flickr.com/photos/21812089@N02/), on Flickr
I know the EF-111 only needed a two man crew due to the more automated AN/ALQ-99 EW system but they still needed someone to read the maps, make the coffee and distribute the donuts.
Rear cockpit was snarfed from a EA-6B. I think I can use the EA-6B cockpit and canopy.
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Found on Facebook.
(https://scontent.fxds1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/69915494_2720431597991143_298746341582962688_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&_nc_oc=AQlmD_hcUZzsu3G8emnkwePQEY83yi9E-yesuCm5wXjMqCKf576LoBlhSaik2gUpigI&_nc_ht=scontent.fxds1-1.fna&oh=5ab09c491f5687534481c34d0d8c1adc&oe=5DFCADA3)
"F-111K formation flying out over the Forth after doing a wee turn at the East Fortune airshow. Bass Rock & Cockenzie in the background."
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:smiley:
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Random idea: Instead of the A-4 Skyhawk, the RNZAF joins in on the RAAF F-111 buy in the late '60s and gets a squadron of F-111s to replace their EE Canberras. A Kiwi F-111 in this sort of scheme would look cool:
(http://www.adf-gallery.com.au/gallery/albums/Skyhawk-NZ6209/Skyhawk_NZ6209_Photo_via_Dave_Masterson.jpg)
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(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EI5E6JpVAAA1mvA?format=jpg&name=900x900)
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Rarely mentioned M61 fit out for the F-111:
(http://www.f-111.net/models/weaponsbay/image004.jpg)
(http://www.adf-gallery.com.au/gallery/albums/F-111-A8-various/gunf111r.jpg)
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Random idea: Marineflieger F-111 in scheme similar to this and toting some Kormoran anti-shipping missiles:
(http://img.wp.scn.ru/camms/ar/492/pics/45_6.jpg)
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(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48589039577_7304c52ca3_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2h2DwDF)
EF-111M-04.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h2DwDF) by Big Gimper (https://www.flickr.com/photos/21812089@N02/), on Flickr
I know the EF-111 only needed a two man crew due to the more automated AN/ALQ-99 EW system but they still needed someone to read the maps, make the coffee and distribute the donuts.
Rear cockpit was snarfed from a EA-6B. I think I can use the EA-6B cockpit and canopy.
Nice job Big Gimper 😯
I had a similar notion of a four-seater EF-111 as an RAAF program, with a straight-foraward incorporation of the EA-6B EW/ECM systems....alas I tried to incorporate the A-5 Vigilante's rear cockpit profile....But then I came to the realisation that with the EA-6B wing-mounted jammer pods, my EF-111C would be supersonic no more, hence useless in accompanying and supporting the RAAF's F-111C's 😩
P.S. what's the chances of you applying your art to a FB-111H profile Big Gimper???
MAD
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(https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/48589039577_7304c52ca3_b.jpg) (https://flic.kr/p/2h2DwDF)
EF-111M-04.jpg (https://flic.kr/p/2h2DwDF) by Big Gimper (https://www.flickr.com/photos/21812089@N02/), on Flickr
I know the EF-111 only needed a two man crew due to the more automated AN/ALQ-99 EW system but they still needed someone to read the maps, make the coffee and distribute the donuts.
Rear cockpit was snarfed from a EA-6B. I think I can use the EA-6B cockpit and canopy.
Nice job Big Gimper 😯
I had a similar notion of a four-seater EF-111 as an RAAF program, with a straight-foraward incorporation of the EA-6B EW/ECM systems....alas I tried to incorporate the A-5 Vigilante's rear cockpit profile....But then I came to the realisation that with the EA-6B wing-mounted jammer pods, my EF-111C would be supersonic no more, hence useless in accompanying and supporting the RAAF's F-111C's 😩
P.S. what's the chances of you applying your art to a FB-111H profile Big Gimper???
MAD
No problem. I'll give it a try MAD..
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Proposed RNZAF F-111 with Fern-Leaf style Roundels:
(https://www.airforcemuseum.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/1996-172.2_p1_web.jpg)
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(https://combatace.com/uploads/monthly_09_2015/post-59028-0-58623200-1441829487.jpg)
(https://combatace.com/uploads/monthly_09_2015/post-59028-0-73257400-1441829491.jpg)
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Found on Facebook.
(https://scontent.fxds1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.6435-9/198134397_10159583841776103_4993813268976983979_n.jpg?_nc_cat=106&ccb=1-3&_nc_sid=825194&_nc_ohc=00S_kgEpb7IAX9-GeIO&_nc_ht=scontent.fxds1-1.fna&oh=42046df74e321c314128a6a580589522&oe=60CD22BD)
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I’ve always wanted to do a modernized F-111 with ramp intakes to solve the airflow problems and maybe new engines. Of course new radar and all that stuff you can’t see.
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I’ve always wanted to do a modernized F-111 with ramp intakes to solve the airflow problems and maybe new engines. Of course new radar and all that stuff you can’t see.
See Reply # 11 (http://beyondthesprues.com/Forum/index.php?topic=698.0) of this thread
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Any chance of someone doing an F-111 profile with the following modifications:
- Replacement of large single wheel main landing gear with duel wheel landing gear (remanicent of Mirage F1/SEPECAT Jaguar/Su-24 Fencer;
-Under fuselage hardpoints and bombs, reminiscent of Su-24 Fencer/Tornado IDS
-Or even a streightout air force derivative of the Grumman F-111 Colossal Weight Improvement Program (CWIP) derivative, which 'deleted the bomb bay and escape capsule and reduced the volume required for the main landing gear by not allowing for the large low-flotation tires required for operation from unprepared fields. All weapons were now carried on the fuselage, four semi-submerged and two on short pylons on the lower sides of the fuselage. This arrangement eliminated both the wing pylons and swivel mechanisms required to keep the missiles aligned when the wings were swept.'
(Source: http://thanlont.blogspot.com/2010/11/f-111b-colossal-weight-improvement.html?m=1 (http://thanlont.blogspot.com/2010/11/f-111b-colossal-weight-improvement.html?m=1))
Regards
MAD
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Hi scooter (even if he is not member), excuse me for borrowing your image :icon_alabanza:
(https://i.imgur.com/jcPbiSm.png)
High rez here (http://"https://www.deviantart.com/scooternjng/art/Londthyrian-Confederacy-GR-111-Aardvark-829728931")
Hi people, do you think that in the area of bomb bay, it was possible to build a cabin for a business version?
Besides deleting bay, what other internal modifications?
4 people cabin. More, by stretching fuselage.
(https://conceptbunny.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/F-111_Aardvark.jpg)
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See this from page 1 for some inspiration:
(http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e68/GTwiner/More%20Creations/d3fc00f0.jpg)
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What if a customized version of F-111 for RAF? With TSR-2 size
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/TSR-111_j4BHdjDqRVviZwARHB9R5A.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/TSR-111_j4BHdjDqRVviZwARHB9R5A.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds)
BTW, I consider SEA camo ideal for RAFplanes. :thumbsup:
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Tandem 2 seat or 4 seat?
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4 seats. 8)
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Merging 2 related projects.
(https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/Tomcat-111_fCi6ysgt738PatoJ84pPE5.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds) (http://"https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/Tomcat-111_fCi6ysgt738PatoJ84pPE5.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds")
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4 seats. 8)
:smiley:
You should do an extended EF-111 using that
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Merging 2 related projects.
([url]https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/Tomcat-111_fCi6ysgt738PatoJ84pPE5.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds[/url]) (http://"[url]https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/Tomcat-111_fCi6ysgt738PatoJ84pPE5.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds[/url]")
:smiley:
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Merging 2 related projects.
([url]https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/Tomcat-111_fCi6ysgt738PatoJ84pPE5.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds[/url]) (http://"[url]https://hosting.photobucket.com/images/j340/ysi_maniac/Tomcat-111_fCi6ysgt738PatoJ84pPE5.jpg?width=1920&height=1080&fit=bounds[/url]")
:smiley:
That one does look good. :smiley:
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A Quad Seat F-111 I did for a group build a while back. Done as a RAF Radar hunter using ALARM missiles
(https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/t66r55winv1sa4m3w7c9m/f111bld15.jpg?rlkey=kmm8iaez4elj8aebzmhbpz3m8&raw=1)
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:smiley:
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I love it Buzzbomb :-*
MAD
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Gorgeous!!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
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This article (https://www.twz.com/air/the-f-111-was-faster-than-you-thought) matches what I have heard decades ago for the RAAF. In fact I have heard that it was possible to go supersonic with one engine shut down.
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This article (https://www.twz.com/air/the-f-111-was-faster-than-you-thought) matches what I have heard decades ago for the RAAF. In fact I have heard that it was possible to go supersonic with one engine shut down.
Yes, interesting, especially the Mach 3 accounts.
Although, they get a little excited about the notion of F119s, when as we've discussed in the past, the F110-GE-400 would have done more than nicely.🤔
M.A.D