Wing sweep is linked to the flaps (flap handle is locked in the UP position if sweep is more than 26.5°), no interlock with the gear. Manual says stall can occur with no warning (buffet). Pre, during and post stall can be deceptively smooth and comfortable. The timing of recovery control application is critical. A momentary delay may mean complete loss of control and possibly loss of the aircraft. Stall avoidance is of particular importance, since the chances of recovery from a fully developed out of control condition are not good due to large altitude losses. Aircraft drag may exceed total thrust available. Is this what may have been their undoing?
T.O. 1F-111F-1 Flight manual USAF Series F-111F