Connect with us

Back

Rise of the Phantom – Evolution of the Legendary F-4

A pair of German-owned F-4F Phantom IIs fly over New Mexico during a training sortie. The German F-4Fs sported U.S. Air Force markings since they were based at Holloman AFB, New Mexico (for the better weather and ranges). Both U.S. and German instructors manned the unit, the 20th Fighter Squadron. (Photo by Ted Carlson/fotodynamics.com)
IT WAS MAY 10, 1972, when four Air Force F-4D Phantoms, using their AIM-7 Sparrow missiles, initiated a head-on engagement with a four-ship formation of MiG-21s. The MiGs had no weapons capable of engaging from a fontal aspect. Oyster Flight was part of a 28-ship F-4D prestrike MiGCAP configured to intercept any Vietnamese People’s Air Force (VPAF) MiGs that might attack the 92-plane strike force that followed. The target was the Paul Doumer Bridge, part...

PARDON THE INTERRUPTION



Purchase Options


membership
All the stories featured in Flight Journal are as unique and varied as the airplanes and warriors who flew them. From popular warbirds like the P-51 Mustang and Me 109 to the Lockheed SR-71 and futuristic hypersonic fighters, we cover the whole spectrum of aviation. We’ve heard from countless readers over the years about how much they enjoy the compelling stories and beautiful photography.

Copyright © 2024 Air Age Media. All rights reserved.