Portal:Military history of Australia/Equipment/19

A F-111C in 2006

The F-111C was a version of the United States' F-111 tactical strike aircraft developed specifically for Australia. The F-111C combined F-111A/E avionics with the long-span wings and heavier landing gear originally designed for the F-111B. Twenty-four F-111Cs were originally ordered in 1963 and entered service in 1973. Four aircraft were modified to RF-111C reconnaissance configuration, while retaining their strike capability. An additional four ex-USAF F-111As were refitted to F-111Cs and delivered to Australia as attrition replacements. The F-111Cs were continuously upgraded and remained operational until December 2010 when they were retired from Australian service.