Behind the Wings ®
The Podcast – S6, Episode 57
Retired F-111 Pilot Lt. Col. Kevin “Too Kool” Kuhlmann explains how the General Dynamics F-111 could perform almost any role in the air battlefield, as a fighter, bomber, and even low-level attack aircraft.
Listen Anywhere! Apple | Spotify | All Players
In this episode, Kevin discusses maintaining weapon systems on the F-106 and F-4, flying the Aardvark, and the thrill of lighting the afterburner during fuel dumps. With groundbreaking technology for its time, like terrain-following radar, variable-sweep wings, and an ejection capsule, this supersonic jet was not only advanced but a whole lot of fun to fly. This one is going to be cool!
Key Takeaways:
- While in the Air National Guard, Kevin helped maintain the F-106 and F-4. He found the Century Series Delta Dart easier to work on than the Phantom, thanks to its more straightforward design and wiring.
- Unlike many jets of its era, the F-111 featured a side-by-side cockpit configuration rather than the typical front-and-back setup. This design featured a unique ejection capsule that could simultaneously propel both crew members out of the aircraft.
- The Aardvark was the first production aircraft to utilize variable-sweep wings. While innovative at the time, this feature is mostly obsolete on modern aircraft due to advancements in aerodynamics and engine technology, as well as increased complexity and added weight.
Resources:
Want more Behind the Wings?
Peek into the cockpits of rare warbirds and spacecraft, hear from aerospace experts and more in our episodic documentary series!
Learn more