New images added Hobby Master HA19088 F-4J “Black Phantom” 153783, VX-4, US Navy, 1970
In 1970, the US Navy’s Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Four (VX-4), the “Evaluators,” operated the McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II from Naval Air Station Point Mugu, California. VX-4 was responsible for the operational test and evaluation of new air to air weapons, radar systems, and fighter tactics before they entered fleet service. The squadron played a key role in refining the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder missile systems while helping improve Phantom combat effectiveness during the Vietnam War. Its distinctive gloss black test aircraft became some of the most recognizable Phantoms ever flown by the US Navy.
McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom II
Designed as a fleet defence fighter for the US Navy, the F-4 Phantom was first flown on May 27, 1958. This twin-engine, long-range all-weather fighter/bomber proved highly adaptable and served in the Marine Corps and the US Air Force as well as in the Navy. During the Vietnam War, it was the principal air superiority fighter for the Navy and the Air Force and was also used for reconnaissance and ground attack. The Phantom continued to serve well into the 1970s and 1980s and even flew missions during the first Gulf War. Finally phased out by the F-14, F-16 and F/A-18, the Phantom was retired in 1996.
Comments are closed here.