U.S. Navy Jet Fighter F-4J “USS Midway 1978”

The F-4J is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II fighter aircraft that was primarily used by the United States Navy (USN) and the United States Marine Corps (USMC). Here’s some information about the F-4J variant:

1. Overview: The F-4J Phantom II was an upgraded version of the original F-4B model and was developed by McDonnell Aircraft Corporation. It entered service in 1966 and was specifically designed for naval operations.
2. Role: The F-4J Phantom II served as a carrier-based multi-role fighter aircraft. It was capable of performing air superiority missions, ground attack, and reconnaissance.
3. Performance: The F-4J had similar performance characteristics to earlier F-4 variants. It was powered by twin engines and could reach speeds exceeding Mach 2.2 (twice the speed of sound). It had a combat radius of approximately 370 nautical miles (685 kilometers) and a maximum range of around 1,750 nautical miles (3,240 kilometers).
4. Armament: The F-4J was armed with a combination of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons. It could carry a variety of missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as bombs, rockets, and other ordnance for ground attack missions.
5. Avionics: The F-4J featured advanced radar and avionics systems, including the AN/AWG-10 radar, which provided improved detection and tracking capabilities. It also had a digital fire control system that enhanced its air-to-air combat capabilities.
6. Upgrades: Some F-4J aircraft underwent upgrades during their service life. One notable upgrade was the addition of the AN/APG-63 radar, which improved the aircraft’s air-to-air engagement capabilities.
7. Service: The F-4J Phantom II saw extensive service during the Vietnam War, where it operated from aircraft carriers and conducted a range of missions, including combat air patrols, close air support, and strike missions against ground targets.
8. Retirement: The F-4J eventually phased out of active service with the USN and USMC, being replaced by more advanced aircraft like the F-14 Tomcat and F/A-18 Hornet. Some F-4J aircraft were also sold or transferred to other countries and continued to serve in foreign air forces for several more years.

The F-4J Phantom II variant played a significant role in naval aviation history, serving as a versatile and capable fighter aircraft. Its combat performance and reliability made it a respected platform during its operational years.