1/72 F-4J Phantom II US Navy, "Mig-21 Killer" 157245, VF-114 Aardvarks, USS Kitty Hawk, 1972

General Background

The F-4J was the last version produced for the USN and USMC. The “J” version was basically an upgraded “B” version with new radar and avionics as well as a better the “J” version is what isn’t there; the infrared seeker under the nose was deleted. Also missing was an internal gun but Sparrow and Sidewinder missiles were used for intercepting. Between 1966 and 1972 there were 522 F-4Js built. The F-4J had the distinction of scoring the only USMC air-to-air combat victory in Vietnam and it also was the last US operational aircraft inSouth East Asia. In mid 1970 the F-4 Phantom II was being replaced by the new and improved F-14 Tomcat.

The Aircraft

The VF-114 “Aardvarks” squadron was deployed to Vietnam from February 1972 until December 1972. F-4J 157245 was delivered to the USN on September 24, 1972 and was assigned to VF-114 “Aardvarks”. On May 6, 1972 2 VF-114 aircraft encountered 4 MiG-21s and after a lot of maneuvering both F-4s downed a MiG-21. One of the F-4Js was 157245. This aircraft spent 6 years with VF-114 and completed two combat tours. In January 1976 VF-114 began converting to the F-14 so 157245 was transferred to VF-51 “Screaming Eagles”.

Specifications

• Dimensions
• Length: 17.7m
• Height: 4.7m
• Wingspan: 11.6m
• Wingarea: 49.2 sq m
• No. of Engines: 2
• Powerplant : General Electric J79-GE-10 (A/B 17,900Lb/8,119Kg)
• Performance
• Range: 2,222 km
• Cruise Speed: 908 km/h
• Max Speed: 2,299 km/h
• Climb: 12,572 m/min
• Ceiling: 16,672 m