Originally Posted by
GunnF16
Commonly referred to as the "Spark-Vark."
I believe, but am not positive, that the F-111 and B-36 carry the distinction of being the only Air Force aircraft never officially given a popular name. The F-111 was the Aardvark, and the B-36 the Peacekeeper, but I think these were given by the troops, and not the Brass.
Both aircraft were controversial, and the Brass supposedly was trying to keep them out of the spotlight.
The EF-111 was a modification of the F-111. AF's alternative to the EA-6. Similar capes I think.
They both carried the ALQ-99 pods. The Spark-Vark carried them internally (with external antennas); the Prowler as under-wing pods (but also had a built-in "football" antenna on top of the tail, just like the Vark).