Luftwaffe, German Air Force F-4F Jet fighter JG71 “Richthofen”

The McDonnell Douglas F-4F Phantom II served for decades as one of the main fighter aircraft of the German Luftwaffe. Developed specifically for West Germany, the F-4F was a simplified export version of the legendary Phantom, entering service in the early 1970s. Known for its impressive speed, heavy armament, and versatility, the aircraft successfully performed both air defense and strike missions throughout the Cold War era.

One of the most famous units operating the F-4F was Jagdgeschwader 71 “Richthofen” (JG 71), the first fighter wing established in the post-war Luftwaffe. Named after World War I flying ace Manfred von Richthofen, the squadron operated the F-4F Phantom II from the 1970s until the aircraft’s retirement in 2013. During its service, JG 71 played a vital role in defending German airspace and maintaining NATO air defense readiness.

The F-4F Phantom II in the markings of JG 71 “Richthofen” became an enduring symbol of German military aviation and remains one of the most iconic Phantom operators in Europe.