F-4C 'Phantom' by junge1
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No AI - This artwork was created entirely by hand or with traditional digital tools.
Description
This McDonnell Douglas F-4C 'Phantom' is taxiing to take-off on runway 17L/35R at DaNang AB, Viet Nam. The F-4C (Air Force version)could fold its wings up when parked, just like the Navy's F-4B.
The F-4 had two engines, a top speed of Mach 2+ and at one time held the time-to-climb record from 0 to 30,000-ft. in 59 seconds. The F-4 was the mainstay of both the Air Force and the Navy during the Viet Nam war, but it was not well suited for aerial combat with the nimble Migs.
This particular picture shows the cockpits open for both the pilot and the WSO (Weapons System Operator). It carries a center 600 gallon external fuel tank, napalm, and Sparrow missiles, the fins of which are visible ahead of the left engine intake.
The red aircraft painted on the fuselage ahead of the intake indicates one Mig kill. A historical search in the late 1980s of the tail number revealed that this particular aircraft was lost in combat in 1968.
This picure was taken as a slide in spring 1967, a print was made from the slide in 1969 and the print was scanned in 2004.
Thank you for viewing and commenting on my latest uploads,
Sig...

Comments (35)
Phantoms mean a lot to me. They were the closest I came to the real thing. In today's world with the latest Sparrow, MIG 21's are no match for them. Trying to explain about Phantoms and M-16's is just not worth it. One has to draw pictures of hydrogen bomb mushroom clouds and then show SAMs exploding in mid-air off target just to get to the podium. Once there one is shouted down by the sound of incessant rain.
That is fantastic, I've always loved the F4
Great shot and excellent narative Sig , thanks for sharing!
A classic phot of a classic warbird ready for duty. My brother's outfit flew F-4s out of Danang and Tahkli in '71 and '72.
An F-4 Phantom, an aircraft that is fierce as it is loud. I think I lost part of my hearing when stationed in Thailand in 71-72. This aircraft is very well respected for its capabilities and the time it served. Those who flew this aircraft most likely suffered hemoroids afterwords.