The General Dynamics F-111 Aardvark was a strategic bomber and tactical fighter aircraft developed in the 1960s by General Dynamics, which later became part of Lockheed Martin. The F-111 was designed to meet the requirements of the United States Air Force for a versatile aircraft capable of performing a variety of missions.

The F-111 was the first production aircraft to feature variable-sweep wings, which could be extended for maximum lift during takeoff and landing, and swept back for high-speed flight. The aircraft was also equipped with a terrain-following radar system that allowed it to fly at low altitudes and high speeds, even in bad weather.

The F-111 was initially intended to be a strategic bomber, but its role was later expanded to include tactical fighter missions as well. The aircraft was armed with a variety of weapons, including bombs, missiles, and guns, and was used in a number of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the 1991 bombing of Iraq.

Despite its versatility and advanced technology, the F-111 was plagued by a number of technical and operational issues throughout its service life. The aircraft was retired from active service in the United States Air Force in 1998, but remained in service with the Royal Australian Air Force until 2010.