Osprey Colour Series (Aviation) : Swing Wings : Tornados, Tomcats and Backfires

The concept of variable-geometry, or swing wings, has enabled the aerodynamicist to incorporate the conflicting requirements of speed, manoeuvrability, range and payload into one very flexible design. In vogue throughout the 1960s and early 70s, swing wing aircraft entered service in considerable number with NATO and WarPac squadrons, and many of these designs are destined to remain in the frontline well past the year 2000. Text by Tim Laming.

Contents

• F-111 'Aardvark'
• F-14 Tomcat
• Soviet Swingers
• B-1B Lancer
• Tornado
• Cutaways