Air Power Series>1:72 die-cast display model>F-4>HA1957
McDonnell Douglas RF-4C "Playboy" 69-351, 14th TRS, Vietnam War
General Background
The F-4 Phantom II first entered US Military service in 1960. It was designed as a fleet defense fighter for the US Navy but by 1963 it was adopted as the US Air Force primary fighter-bomber.
Despite the size and weight of this Cold War icon the F-4 broke 15 world records and continued to hold five of them until 1975.
Produced from 1960 to 1981 there were 5,195 Phantom IIs manufactured. Eleven countries other than the USA had the Phantom II in their inventory.
Produced from 1960 to 1981 there were 5,195 Phantom IIs manufactured. Eleven countries other than the USA had the Phantom II in their inventory.
The Aircraft
Because of the war in Vietnam the 14th TRS was activated In October 1966. The unit was
issued new RF-4C Phantom IIs and after training arrived at the Udorn Royal Thai Air Force Base
in October 1967 assigned to the 432nd TRW. Mid way into 1971 the 14th TRS were the only
tactical reconnaissance unit in Vietnam. During their time in Vietnam the RF-4s didn't carry any
weapons and relied on speed and speed and altitude to evade Migs and SAMs. In December
1975 the 432nd TRW was inactivated this included the 14th TRS and their RF-4s were sent to
Shaw AFB, South Carolina.
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 |