Staying power
Pigs roar into their thirties

Officer Commanding No. 82 Wing Group Captain Kym Osley with an F-111 that has had its tail fin decorated to mark the 30th anniversary of the F-111s’ service at Amberley. For an interview with GPCAPT Osley and for the story on the airman who produced the design for the tail fin, see the centrespread. Photo by Malcolm Lancaster

THIRTY years after its introduction into service, the F-111 remains the most remarkable and formidable platform in the Air Force’s arsenal. It has proved to be an
endearing, enduring and adaptable asset.

Affectionately known as Pigs, the F-111s have undergone significant changes in sophistication and roles over the past 30 years.

The first F-111s arrived at RAAF Base Amberley on June 1, 1973. To mark the 30th anniversary of that event, this issue features a centrespread on the aircraft.

It includes an article from Air Commander Air Vice-Marshal John Kindler on the past, present and future role of the F-111; an interview with Officer Commanding No. 82 Wing Group Captain Kym Osley; and even information on how the aircraft acquired its nickname.

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