Originally Posted by NutLoose
I thought the Aussies had expressed an interest in them.
Originally Posted by 500N
I thought so to, then bought the F-111 when it was cancelled to do it.
Actually, the RAAF evaluated TSR2, F-111, Mirage IV, F-4C, and A-5.
The RAAF flat-out rejected Mirage IV & F-4C, and said that F-111 showed the most promise, with the largest and best-funded development/support/long-term modification/upgrade support.
They then said "In the long run we prefer F-111, but since the A-5 Vigilante is in production, in service, and available right now (instead of 5+ years down the road for either TSR2 or F-11),
then that's what we want you to buy, and we can look at F-111/TSR2 after 1970".
The Aussie government said "Sorry, but you only get one - and if we buy F-111 then the US will love us and protect us and call us their best friends forever" - and, in
October 1963 (
before TSR2 was canceled on 1 April 1965) officially ordered F-111.
This link allows you to read the entire 101-page RAAF evaluation document set for all 5 aircraft:
http://naa12.naa.gov.au/scripts/Imag...33518&I=1&SE=1
