SZ/CSA/59 - [CSA. F-111]

SZ/CSA/59

File

[CSA. F-111]

1963-1968

28 items Mixed

F-111 (Fighter planes)

Contains correspondence and newspaper articles. American press articles from 1963 report on the upset surrounding the granting of aeroplane building contracts. During Melvin Laird's service as the United States Defence Secretary, plans are made to introduce a new bomber for the Air Force.

In Britain in 1966 there is discussion about the replacement of aircraft carriers with American F-111 fighter aircraft and Buccaneer bombers. The F-111 is compared with the TRS 2 fighter plane on cost and performance. The final cost of these purchases is debated in Parliament. The development cost of the Phoenix missile and the RAF's purchase of a Skybolt fighter plane are discussed. The shortcomings of British F-111K aircraft are highlighted in an article on 9/67.

Throughout 1966 and 1967 Britain looks at ways in which military expenditure could be reduced. The British Army of the Rhine, the military presence of Britain East of Suez, and the nuclear programme are identified as areas in which cut-backs might take place. An article in 1/68 looks at the programme of purchases of advanced military equipment from the United States.