Among the most interesting aircraft development programmes currently in progress is the Flight Test Programme of the F-111, an aeroplane that is being built for both the USAF (the F-111 A) and the US Navy (F-111B). Although the operational envelope of this aeroplane is only a modest step forward into new regions of flight, the dictates of its multi-mission role over the largest Mach-altitude envelope ever achieved by a tactical aeroplane is a significant advancement in the “state of the art”.

To accomplish these mission objectives, which include short take-off and landing distances, sustained supersonic operation at low altitudes, and a Mach 2.5 capability at high altitudes, the F-111 is configured and equipped with a number of unique design features and advanced systems. This discussion is intended to present a brief description of the more interesting features and a progress summary of the F-111 flight test programme.