Hobby Master Archive

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 engine that required a longer afterburner nozzle. One of the most noticeable changes to 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 in South East Asia. In mid 1970 the F-4 Phantom II was being replaced by the new and improved F-14 Tomcat.

On February 1, 1968 the former VMF(AW)-451 became VMFA-451 when they exchanged their F8U-2 Crusaders for the F-4J Phantom II. In 1954 after a few name changes the unit finally adopted the name “Warlords” as well as a new insignia. It consisted of a jet punching through a Carling beer label with a motto “Vini, Vici” meaning “We came, We conquered”. In 1963 VMF(AW)-451 moved to MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina. Over the years the squadron had spent time aboard USS Forrestal and in 1976 they were scheduled to return to the carrier for a Mediterranean cruise so the F-4J' s were painted in U.S. Bicentennial markings along with Carrier Air Wing 17 tail-code of “AA”. As it turned out the Med cruise was cancelled. On January 31, 1999 VMFA-451 was decommissioned after 57 years of service.

Specification for the F- 4J Performance Engines: 2 X General Electric J79-GE-8B/8C/10 turbojets, 11,870 lb.s.t dry, 17,900 lb. s. t. with afterburner. (lb.s.t. - Pounds Static Thrust) Maximum speed: 1,584 mph at 48,000 ft. (Mach 2.4), 875 mph at sea level (Mach 1.15) Initial climb rate: 41,250 fpm. Service ceiling: 70,000 ft. Combat ceiling: 54,700 ft. Combat range: 596 miles, maximum range 1,956 miles with maximum external fuel.

Weights 30,770 lbs empty. 46,833 lbs gross. 41,399 lbs combat weight.

Dimensions Wingspan: 38 ft. 5 in. Wing area: 530 square ft. Length: 58 ft. 3.75 in. Height: 16 ft. 3 in.

Fuel Maximum internal fuel: in fuselage tanks 1,347 US gal. Internal wing tanks: 630 gal. Maximum external fuel: 3,317 US gal. 600 US gal in a centerline tank, 370 US gal in each of two tanks that could be carried underneath the outer under wing pylons.

Armament 4 X AIM-7 Sparrow semi-active radar homing air-to-air missiles in semi- recessed slots in the fuselage belly. 2 X to 4 AIM-9 Sidewinder infra-red homing air-to-air missiles carried under the wings on the inboard pylons. Maximum offensive load of up to 16,000 lbs carried on the centerline and 4 under wing hard points.

Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series HA1924 McDonnell Douglas F- 4J Phantom II VMFA-451, USS Forrestal, 1976

1/72 scale.

Professionally painted.

Great attention to detail.

All markings are Tampoed (pad applied).

Option to display the model on a stand that is provided.

Model can be shown with the landing gear in the down or up positions.

Canopy can be displayed open or closed.

Pilot figures included.

Extremely heavy metal with a minimum of plastic.

Highly collectable.