Development of the TFX F-111 in the Department of Defense's Search for Multi-Mission Joint-Service Aerial Platforms

<p>In 1961 the new Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara directed a joint aircraft acquisition program called the TFX which would produce the first common aerial platform for multiple services. The resulting drama subterfuge and resistance by the Air Force the Navy and multiple sources inside and out of the Department of Defense caused the program to fail. This paper is a historical look at the different points of view and agendas of the Air Force Navy and Civilian Government Leaders who influenced the results of the program. It attempts to isolate the factors that influence a joint acquisitions program that were non-existent in other single service developments. Following a chronological development of the program from each perspective helps give understanding and reference to the issues that affected the TFX. Analysis of these perceptions shows how some of these same concerns and challenges present themselves in future joint aircraft ventures.</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p><br>