Difference between revisions of "F-4EJ Phantom II"

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{{Specs-Card|code=f-4ej}}
 
{{About
 
{{About
−
| about = Japanese jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| usage = other versions
 
| usage = other versions
 
| link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
 
| link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
 
}}
 
}}
−
{{Specs-Card
 
−
|code=f-4ej
 
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
−
}}
 
−
 
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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The '''F-4EJ''' was a version of the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|Phantom II]], a versatile fighter jet designed by McDonnell Douglas in the late 1950s. Japan bought 140 F-4EJs in 1968, based on the [[F-4E]] model used by the U.S. Air Force, but with some changes such as the removal of aerial refueling and ground attack capabilities. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries also built 138 F-4EJs under license. The F-4EJ served as Japan's main air defense fighter for many years, until it was gradually replaced by the Mitsubishi F-2 and the F-35A Joint Strike Fighter. Japan also operated a reconnaissance version of the F-4EJ, the RF-4EJ, which had no weapons and carried cameras and sensors. The RF-4EJ retired in March 2020, followed by the last F-4EJ in December 2020, marking the end of an era for Japan's "Phantastic Phantoms".
+
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
−
 
+
{{Break}}
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It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]]. The F-4EJ Phantom II is a versatile jet that can attack ground and air targets with bombs, rockets, missiles, and cannons. It can also mount three extra gun pods for more firepower, but this reduces its speed and agility. The plane has decent missiles and a frontal cannon that can take down enemy aircraft with ease. Due to its lack of Agile Eagle upgrades, F-4EJ is not as manoeuvrable as the [[F-4C|F-4E]], [[F-4F Early (Germany)|F-4F Early]], and [[F-4F (Germany)|F-4F]]. It should avoid turn fights with lighter jets, instead relying on its generous armament and speed to make hit and run attacks.  
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
−
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
−
 
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 12,192 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 12,192 m)
Line 31: Line 24:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| 2,255 || 2,221 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 141.6 || 131.6 || rowspan="2" | 850
+
|2269||2236|| rowspan="2" |16000||26.5||27.7||142.2||132.6|| rowspan="2" | 850
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| 2,419 || 2,340 || 25.6 || 26.0 || 204.3 || 172.0
+
|2419||2340||25.6||26.0||204.3||170.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
[[File:F-4EJ Phantom II taking off.jpg|thumb|{{PAGENAME}} taking off]]
 
 
==== Details ====
 
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="6" | Features
 
! colspan="6" | Features
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|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
! colspan="7" | Limits
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 580 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
+
|1458||597|| N/A || 625 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || N/A
 
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || N/A
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
−
==== Engine performance ====
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Engine
 
−
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
 
−
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
−
|-
 
−
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-17 || 2
 
−
| colspan="2" | 13,965 kg || colspan="2" | 403 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
 
−
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
 
−
|-
 
−
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 
−
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
 
−
|-
 
−
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
 
−
| 15,724 kg || 17,787 kg || 19,829 kg || 24,000 kg
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
 
−
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
 
−
|-
 
−
! Condition || 100% || WEP
 
−
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MTOW
 
−
|-
 
−
| ''Stationary'' || 5,200 kgf || 8,008 kgf
 
−
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.67
 
−
|-
 
−
| ''Optimal'' || 5,200 kgf<br>(0 km/h) || 10,170 kgf<br>(1,400 km/h)
 
−
| 1.29 || 1.14 || 1.03 || 0.85
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
+
8.5mm of Steel below the cockpit.
−
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
−
 
 
−
* 8.5 mm of Steel below the cockpit.
 
−
 
 
−
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
−
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
−
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
 
−
|-
 
−
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
 
−
|-
 
−
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|JM61A1 (20 mm)}}
 
{{main|JM61A1 (20 mm)}}
Line 137: Line 77:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
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* A choice between two presets:
+
* 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon, chin-mounted (640 rpg)
−
** 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon, chin-mounted (640 rpg)
 
−
** 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon + 90 x countermeasures
 
  
−
Due to this cannon's high rate of fire (only 6.60 seconds of continuous fire), trigger discipline is a must.
+
Due to this cannon's high rate of fire (only 6.60 seconds of continuous fire), trigger discipline is a must.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|JM117 cone 45 (750 lb)}}
 +
{{main|AIM-9J Sidewinder|AIM-9E Sidewinder|Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP|FFAR Mighty Mouse|M61 (20 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
* Without load
−
|-
+
* 3 x 20 mm M61 cannons
−
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
 
−
| rowspan="13" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[GAU-4 (20 mm)|20 mm GAU-4]] cannons (1,200 rpg)
 
−
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
 
−
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
 
−
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
 
−
| 3 || 3 || || || || 5 || || || || 3 || 3
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
 
−
| 57 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 57
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
 
−
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[AIM-7D Sparrow]] missiles
 
−
| || || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || ||
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[AIM-7E Sparrow]] missiles
 
−
| || || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || ||
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[AIM-9E Sidewinder]] missiles
 
−
| || || 1, 2 || || || || || || 1, 2 || ||
 
−
|-
 
−
! [[AIM-9P Sidewinder]] missiles
 
−
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
 
−
|-
 
−
! 600 gal drop tanks
 
−
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
 
−
|-
 
−
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,400 kg<br>Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg<br>Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 
−
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 
−
 
 
−
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 4 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 4 x AIM-7D Sparrow missiles
 
−
* 4 x AIM-7E Sparrow missiles
 
 
* 24 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (12,000 lb total)
 
* 24 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (12,000 lb total)
−
* 24 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (12,000 lb total)
+
* 16 x 750 lb JM117 cone 45 bombs (12,000 lb total)
−
* 17 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (12,750 lb total)
 
 
* 285 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 285 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 60 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
 
* 60 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
−
* 3 x 20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg = 3,600 total)
+
* 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
−
{{Navigation-End}}
+
* 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles
 +
* 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles (9,000 lb total)
 +
* 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles (9,000 lb total)
 +
* 10 x 750 lb JM117 cone 45 bombs + 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles (7,500 lb total)
 +
* 10 x 750 lb JM117 cone 45 bombs + 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles (7,500 lb total)
 +
* 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 171 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 +
* 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles + 171 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 +
* 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 36 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
 +
* 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles + 36 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
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The F-4EJ Phantom II is best described as a mixed bag. It is a potent fighter-bomber, capable of carrying x24 500lb bombs along with a full payload of Sparrows and Sidewinders. This means that, with some luck, the F-4EJ Phantom destroy two bases before circling around to engage the enemy in their unguarded flanks. However, this is not advisable and largely depends on luck, as you will likely be swamped by masses of low-flying aircraft who will have no issues completely outperforming you with a full bomb load. The ideal role for the F-4EJ is as a high-altitude Interceptor, being faster and more well-armed than many aircraft that will be up there with you. In a downtier, climbing at around 20-30° (depending on whether you want to be faster or more well-positioned) to a height of 5kms or higher generally means that your Sparrows, with better performance, will often be able to take out high-flying aircraft with impunity. It can hold its own against some opponents, but generally avoid a turnfight with the generally accepted threats such as F-5Cs and Drakens and most Mig-21s, who will have no issue dancing around your nose. While most aircraft can be beaten with careful application of airbrakes and the planes, almost any delta wing aircraft, namely the Mirage III, MiG-21 and J35D, being nigh impossible to beat. To have any chance of beating delta winged jets you must force the fight into the sustained regime where some delta winged jets flown by inexperienced pilots may struggle to rate with you.
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The F-4EJ Phantom is well-suited for any in-game situation. For attacking ground targets, the plane is armed with an assortment of bombs and rockets, and against air targets, players may employ the vehicle's deadly air-to-air missiles and frontal cannon. If desired, three externally-mounted gunpods may be equipped, but note that these may not be useful in all situations. Although they will undoubtedly increase the vehicle's destructive capabilities, they also appreciably hinder flight performance. In many situations, one front-facing cannon is all that is required to dispatch an opponent aircraft. As for the missiles, the ones used by this plane are among the best in the game, comparable to the [[R-60]] missiles equipped by the [[MiG-21MF (Germany)]] and the [[MiG-21SMT]].
  
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The main armament of the F-4EJ are its x4 AIM-9P short-range IR missiles, x4 longer-ranged, faster AIM-7E SARH missiles, and the notorious M61 Vulcan 20mm rotary cannon. Players familiar with the earlier Rank 6 Japanese jets should have no trouble using this cannon, with devastating firepower and a tight-spread when upgraded, the Vulcan will be far more effective due to the increased maneuverability of the F-4EJ. The AIM-7E will often be the primary weapon when dealing with targets at altitude, having much better range and pull than the AIM-7D, you can easily get away with kills from a maximum of 15,000m away. The range of the missile's maximum effectiveness largely depends on the speed of the aircraft on launch, the direction of the target, the altitude of both the attacker and the defender, and the angle of launch. Be advised that the 7E tends not to do well launching at any maneuvering target under 5,000m away, due to the 1.5s it takes to reach full maneuverability. The AIM-9Ps are far more simple. Launch while fast, and they will pull hard into targets up to 1,000m away, often able to achieve locks at a 90° approach angle on targets with extremely hot engines such as other Phantoms, Tomcats and MiG-23s.
+
The F-4EJ is more maneuverable than the [[F-4C Phantom II]], thanks to its leading-edge flaps. Because of this, it can calmly deal with more intense dogfight situations than its predecessor. As with all top-tier fighter jets, extended turn fights should be avoided, since they bleed much speed out of this heavy aircraft and leave the pilot defenseless against nearby vultures. Specifically, watch out for the [[J35D]] ''Draken'', which will beat any of its contemporaries in an extended turn, and also keep an eye on nearby [[Mitsubishi T-2]] pilots: although the T-2 doesn't do well in extended turns, it can pull a significant angle of attack in the first few moments of a turn fight. The [[F-4E Phantom II]] can also be considered a threat as it includes leading-edge slats not found on the F-4EJ.
−
 
 
−
When in an uptier, the playstyle changes very drastically. You will be fighting against Tornado ADVs, F-4S/J and FGR.2 Phantoms, Tomcats, Fulcrums, Floggers, Viggens, and many more aircraft that you have little to no chance against in a one-on-one engagement. Particularly oppressive are the F-14A and B, who vastly outrange you by a great margin, whilst also posessing far better flight performance due to their variable-wing sweep and much better engines. In a dogfight, the F-4EJ fares little better, as very little will struggle against you in a fight. Your best bet is to climb to medium altitude, staying behind your team while looking for high-flying targets for your Sparrows. Keep a very close eye on the plane's RWR and dive to the deck while notching and popping chaff if you get locked. You may also hug the deck, as radar missiles are unable to track when flying directly above tree-top level, though this will make your own Sparrows quite useless since you don't have a PD radar to ignore ground clutter. Playing as a Support Fighter is key to your survival in uptiers.
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 221: Line 116:
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Decent top speed
+
* Fairly maneuverable thanks to leading-edge flaps, especially when low on fuel.
−
* AIM-9Ps can pull a respectable 20Gs, with a mild degree of flare resistance.
+
* AIM-9J air-to-air missiles are among the best in the game.
−
* AIM-9Ps have radar-slaving capability.
+
* Equipped with flares for evading enemy missiles.
−
* Equipped with x90 Countermeasures in varying orders.
+
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any play-style.
−
* Can hold a wide and heavy range of payload options, including a full load of missiles and x24 500lb bombs.
+
* Deadly frontal armament with high burst mass.
−
* The M61 Vulcan is an incredibly dangerous weapon, with great all-round characteristics.
 
−
* The AIM-7E Sparrow is a decent mid-range weapon in downtiers, with competitive flight performance and range.
 
 
* Makes use of a ballistic computer for assisting in the aim of cannons, rockets, and bombs against ground targets.
 
* Makes use of a ballistic computer for assisting in the aim of cannons, rockets, and bombs against ground targets.
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Lack of Agile Eagle unlike F-4E and F-4F, giving it a wider turning arc, making it less likely to outturn its peers in the first turn.
+
* Unlike the [[F-4E Phantom II]], the F-4EJ does not have the Agile Eagle upgrade.
−
* No combat flaps. Takeoff flaps have a low speed limit and high drag, which makes them not very useful in dogfights
+
* Limited ammunition in the frontally-mounted cannon.
−
* The AIM-7E, compared to the 7E-2, takes 1.5s to begin maneuvering, making it worse at short-range shots.
+
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its tier.
−
* Trigger discipline is required to make the most of the plane's 640 rounds of 20mm ammo.
 
−
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank.
 
−
* Radar susceptible to ground clutter, making shots on lower-flying targets more difficult.
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
+
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''-->
  
−
F-4EJ "Samurai Phantom" was a jet fighter aircraft that saw service in the JASDF (Japanese Air Self Defense Force) from 1971 until 2020. At the end of 2020, the F-4EJ will be replaced by the F-35A Lightning II.
+
F-4EJ "Samurai Phantom" was a jet fighter aircraft that saw service in the JASDF (Japanese Air Self Defense Force) from 1971 until 2020. At the end of 2020 the F-4EJ will be replaced by the F-35A Lightning II.
  
−
In 1968 Japan made it public that they would update their JASDF with the F-4 phantom. Being one of the only countries to acquire the permissions to build the plane in their own Factories, Japan started to develop the F-4EJ at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Due to post WW2 sanctions and restrictions, Japan was not allowed to equip any air-to-surface capabilities to the aircraft. As such, the F-4EJ would be made without the AN/AJB-7 bombing computer system.
+
In 1968 Japan made it public that they would update their JASDF with the F-4 phantom. Being one of the only countries to acquire the permissions to build the plane in their own Factories Japan started to develop the F-4EJ at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Due to post WW2 sanctions and restrictions, Japan was not allowed to equip any air-to-surface capabilities to the aircraft, as such the F-4EJ would be made without the AN/AJB-7 bombing computer system. 
  
−
McDonnell Douglas built the first 2, F-4EJ prototypes with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries building the remaining Phantoms. They did, however, import RF-4EJ from McDonnell Douglas over the 10-year span of production. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries would build the very last F-4 in the world, nicknamed "The Finale Phantom", on the 20th of May, 1981. It served with the 306th and 301st Tactical Fighter Squadrons. 127 EJ variant Phantoms were built.
+
McDonnell Douglas built the first 2, F-4EJ prototypes with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries building the remaining Phantoms. They did, however, import RF-4EJ from McDonnell Douglas over the 10-year span of production. Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries would build the very last F-4 in the world, nicknamed "The Finale Phantom" on 20th of May, 1981, it served with the 306th and 301st Tactical Fighter Squadrons. 127 EJ variant Phantoms were built. 
  
−
The first squadron equipped with the new F-4EJ would be the 301<sup>st</sup> Hikotai, in August 1<sup>st</sup> 1972. In October 1973, the 301<sup>st</sup> would be deemed operational with the Phantom, having 14 Phantoms in their squadron. On October 30<sup>th</sup> 1978, five years after the squadron was equipped and trained in the Phantom: the 301<sup>st</sup> was designated as JASDF Quick Ready Alert force. In 1979 they would be the first F-4EJ to intercept another aircraft when a Soviet Tu-95 was deemed a threat on February 21st of that year. Ironically the same day of the intercept is when Japan launched the Hakucho X-ray satellite & Corsa-B.
+
The first squadron equipped with the new F-4EJ would be the 301<sup>st</sup> Hikotai, in August 1<sup>st</sup> 1972. In October 1973 the 301<sup>st</sup> would be deemed operational with the Phantom, having 14 Phantoms in their squadron. On October 30<sup>th</sup> 1978, five years after the squadron was equipped and trained in the Phantom: the 301<sup>st</sup> was designated as JASDF Quick Ready Alert force. In 1979 they would be the first F-4Ej to intercept another aircraft when a Soviet T-95 was deemed a threat in February 21st of that year. Ironically the same day of the intercept is when Japan launched the Hakucho X-ray satellite & Corsa-B.
  
−
In July of 1984, after the post-war sanctions were dropped, Japan put together plans to upgrade its F-4EJ Phantoms. In 1989 their F-4EJ Phantoms were updated starting with the 306<sup>th</sup> Hikotai. The new Phantoms were equipped with APG-66J pulse-Doppler radar, which allowed the Phantoms to carry out air-to-ground and Air-to-Ship capabilities while being lighter, smaller, and more efficient than the old radar. A new computer and heads up display was added to Phantom, allowing them to bring the Phantom into the 21<sup>st</sup> century. Additional upgrades to the pylons allowed the new Phantoms to be equipped with the F-15 fuel tanks, which could sustain more G forces than the current fuel tanks being used. And with the adoption of the Westinghouse AN/ALQ-131 countermeasures, it allowed the pilot to adapt and counter any threats on the modern battlefield quickly. These upgrades were desperately needed for the JASDF as their Mitsubishi F-1 and F-2 did not have the range needed to adequately defend their countries territory if war ever arose. 96 Phantoms were upgraded and designated as F-4EJ Kai (Kai means "Modified" in Japanese).
+
In July of 1984, after the post-war sanctions were dropped, Japan put together plans to upgrade its F-4EJ Phantoms. In 1989 their F-4EJ Phantoms were updated starting with the 306<sup>th</sup> Hikotai. The new Phantoms were equipped with APG-66J pulse-Doppler radar, which allowed the Phantoms to carry out air-to-ground and Air-to-Ship capabilities while being lighter, smaller, and more efficient than the old radar. A new computer and heads up display was added to Phantom allowing them to bring the Phantom into the 21<sup>st</sup> century. Additional upgrades to the pylons allowed the new Phantoms to be equipped with the F-15 fuel tanks, which could sustain more G forces than the current fuel tanks being used. And with the adoption of the Westinghouse AN/ALQ-131 countermeasures, it allowed the pilot to quickly adapt and counter any threats on the modern battlefield. These upgrades were desperately needed for the JASDF as their Mitsubishi F-1 and F-2 did not have the range needed to adequately defend their countries territory if war ever arose. 96 Phantoms were upgraded and designated as F-4EJ Kai (Kai means "Modified" in Japanese).
  
−
The F-4EJ Phantoms were equipped with 3 different colour schemes. Blue Camo, Green Camo, and Grey. 127 aircraft were built, with 8 squadrons adopting the plane. The F-4EJ was decommissioned in 2020 to adapt to the F-35A Lightning II.
+
The F-4EJ Phantoms were equipped with 3 different colour schemes. Blue Camo, Green Camo, and Grey. 127 aircraft were built, with 8 squadrons adopting the plane. The F-4EJ was decommissioned in 2020 to adapt the F-35A Lightning II.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
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''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
  
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;Skins
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== See also ==
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''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4ej Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 
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{{Skin-gallery|market|ugcitem_1000582|F-4EJ Amigo.png|Camo "F-4EJ '397 Amigo'"}}
 
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;Videos
 
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{{Youtube-gallery|TWT-ETcU_No|'''The Shooting Range #198''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 05:01 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|PNkoJ-MFERc|'''Best naval fighters''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 3:39 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|DCvuy_E5ZAk|'''JASDF F-4EJ Phantom II: Actual Sound Recording''' - ''DMM GAMES Official Channel''|wzoNirlvARE|'''F-4 PHANTOM Ⅱ JASDF Final year''' - ''Yomiuri Shimbun''}}
 
  
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== See also ==
 
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<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
  
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== External links ==
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''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
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* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]
 
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** [[F-4EJ Kai Phantom II]]
 
  
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;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
 
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* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-21 (Family)]]
 
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* SAAB [[J35D]] Draken
 
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* Dassault [[Mirage IIIC]]
 
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== External links ==
 
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<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* ''other literature.'' -->
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* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
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* ''other literature.''
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* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/479890-f-4ej/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 
  
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{{Manufacturer MHI}}
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{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
 
{{Japan jet aircraft}}
 
{{Japan jet aircraft}}

Revision as of 11:58, 23 April 2020

Rank VI Israel | Premium | Golden Eagles
Merkava Mk.2D Pack
F-4EJ Phantom II
f-4ej.png
F-4EJ Phantom II
Japan flag.png Japan
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.0 11.0 10.7
Class:
Research:300 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:830 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game
This page is about the jet fighter F-4EJ Phantom II. For other versions, see F-4 Phantom II (Family).

Description

GarageImage F-4EJ Phantom II.jpg


The F-4EJ Phantom II is a rank VII Japanese jet fighter with a battle rating of 11.0 (AB/RB) and 10.7 (SB). It was introduced in Update 1.97 "Viking Fury".

General info

Flight performance

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 12,192 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 2269 2236 16000 26.5 27.7 142.2 132.6 850
Upgraded 2419 2340 25.6 26.0 204.3 170.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1458 597 N/A 625 463 ~11 ~4
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 810 < 750 < 700 N/A

Survivability and armour

8.5mm of Steel below the cockpit.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: JM61A1 (20 mm)

The F-4EJ Phantom II is armed with:

  • 1 x 20 mm JM61A1 cannon, chin-mounted (640 rpg)

Due to this cannon's high rate of fire (only 6.60 seconds of continuous fire), trigger discipline is a must.

Suspended armament

Main articles: LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb), JM117 cone 45 (750 lb)
Main articles: AIM-9J Sidewinder, AIM-9E Sidewinder, Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP, FFAR Mighty Mouse, M61 (20 mm)

The F-4EJ Phantom II can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 3 x 20 mm M61 cannons
  • 24 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (12,000 lb total)
  • 16 x 750 lb JM117 cone 45 bombs (12,000 lb total)
  • 285 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 60 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
  • 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
  • 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles
  • 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles (9,000 lb total)
  • 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs + 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles (9,000 lb total)
  • 10 x 750 lb JM117 cone 45 bombs + 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles (7,500 lb total)
  • 10 x 750 lb JM117 cone 45 bombs + 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles (7,500 lb total)
  • 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 171 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles + 171 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 4 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 36 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
  • 4 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles + 36 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets

Usage in battles

The F-4EJ Phantom is well-suited for any in-game situation. For attacking ground targets, the plane is armed with an assortment of bombs and rockets, and against air targets, players may employ the vehicle's deadly air-to-air missiles and frontal cannon. If desired, three externally-mounted gunpods may be equipped, but note that these may not be useful in all situations. Although they will undoubtedly increase the vehicle's destructive capabilities, they also appreciably hinder flight performance. In many situations, one front-facing cannon is all that is required to dispatch an opponent aircraft. As for the missiles, the ones used by this plane are among the best in the game, comparable to the R-60 missiles equipped by the MiG-21MF (Germany) and the MiG-21SMT.

The F-4EJ is more maneuverable than the F-4C Phantom II, thanks to its leading-edge flaps. Because of this, it can calmly deal with more intense dogfight situations than its predecessor. As with all top-tier fighter jets, extended turn fights should be avoided, since they bleed much speed out of this heavy aircraft and leave the pilot defenseless against nearby vultures. Specifically, watch out for the J35D Draken, which will beat any of its contemporaries in an extended turn, and also keep an eye on nearby Mitsubishi T-2 pilots: although the T-2 doesn't do well in extended turns, it can pull a significant angle of attack in the first few moments of a turn fight. The F-4E Phantom II can also be considered a threat as it includes leading-edge slats not found on the F-4EJ.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Fairly maneuverable thanks to leading-edge flaps, especially when low on fuel.
  • AIM-9J air-to-air missiles are among the best in the game.
  • Equipped with flares for evading enemy missiles.
  • A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any play-style.
  • Deadly frontal armament with high burst mass.
  • Makes use of a ballistic computer for assisting in the aim of cannons, rockets, and bombs against ground targets.

Cons:

  • Unlike the F-4E Phantom II, the F-4EJ does not have the Agile Eagle upgrade.
  • Limited ammunition in the frontally-mounted cannon.
  • Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its tier.

History

F-4EJ "Samurai Phantom" was a jet fighter aircraft that saw service in the JASDF (Japanese Air Self Defense Force) from 1971 until 2020. At the end of 2020 the F-4EJ will be replaced by the F-35A Lightning II.

In 1968 Japan made it public that they would update their JASDF with the F-4 phantom. Being one of the only countries to acquire the permissions to build the plane in their own Factories Japan started to develop the F-4EJ at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Due to post WW2 sanctions and restrictions, Japan was not allowed to equip any air-to-surface capabilities to the aircraft, as such the F-4EJ would be made without the AN/AJB-7 bombing computer system. 

McDonnell Douglas built the first 2, F-4EJ prototypes with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries building the remaining Phantoms. They did, however, import RF-4EJ from McDonnell Douglas over the 10-year span of production. Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries would build the very last F-4 in the world, nicknamed "The Finale Phantom" on 20th of May, 1981, it served with the 306th and 301st Tactical Fighter Squadrons. 127 EJ variant Phantoms were built. 

The first squadron equipped with the new F-4EJ would be the 301st Hikotai, in August 1st 1972. In October 1973 the 301st would be deemed operational with the Phantom, having 14 Phantoms in their squadron. On October 30th 1978, five years after the squadron was equipped and trained in the Phantom: the 301st was designated as JASDF Quick Ready Alert force. In 1979 they would be the first F-4Ej to intercept another aircraft when a Soviet T-95 was deemed a threat in February 21st of that year. Ironically the same day of the intercept is when Japan launched the Hakucho X-ray satellite & Corsa-B.

In July of 1984, after the post-war sanctions were dropped, Japan put together plans to upgrade its F-4EJ Phantoms. In 1989 their F-4EJ Phantoms were updated starting with the 306th Hikotai. The new Phantoms were equipped with APG-66J pulse-Doppler radar, which allowed the Phantoms to carry out air-to-ground and Air-to-Ship capabilities while being lighter, smaller, and more efficient than the old radar. A new computer and heads up display was added to Phantom allowing them to bring the Phantom into the 21st century. Additional upgrades to the pylons allowed the new Phantoms to be equipped with the F-15 fuel tanks, which could sustain more G forces than the current fuel tanks being used. And with the adoption of the Westinghouse AN/ALQ-131 countermeasures, it allowed the pilot to quickly adapt and counter any threats on the modern battlefield. These upgrades were desperately needed for the JASDF as their Mitsubishi F-1 and F-2 did not have the range needed to adequately defend their countries territory if war ever arose. 96 Phantoms were upgraded and designated as F-4EJ Kai (Kai means "Modified" in Japanese).

The F-4EJ Phantoms were equipped with 3 different colour schemes. Blue Camo, Green Camo, and Grey. 127 aircraft were built, with 8 squadrons adopting the plane. The F-4EJ was decommissioned in 2020 to adapt the F-35A Lightning II.

Media

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • encyclopedia page on the aircraft;
  • other literature.


McDonnell Aircraft Corporation
Jet Fighters  F2H-2 · F3H-2
  F-4C Phantom II · F-4E Phantom II · F-4J Phantom II · F-4S Phantom II
  F-15A
Export/Licensed 
Aircraft  ◄F-4F Early · ◄F-4F · Phantom FG.1 · Phantom FGR.2 · F-4J(UK) Phantom II · F-4EJ Phantom II · F-4EJ ADTW · Kurnass · Kurnass 2000
  Baz · F-15J
  ▄AV-8B Plus
Helicopters  AH-6M · Lahatut
  The McDonnell Aircraft Corporation merged with Douglas Aircraft Company in 1967 to form McDonnell Douglas.
See Also  Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

Japan jet aircraft
IJNAS 
Experimental  Kikka
Reconnaissance  R2Y2 Kai V1 · R2Y2 Kai V2 · R2Y2 Kai V3
IJAAS 
Fighters  Ki-200
JASDF 
Fighters  F-86F-30 ▅ · F-86F-40 ▅ · F-86F-40 JASDF▅
  F-104J
  F-4EJ Phantom II · F-4EJ ADTW · F-4EJ Kai Phantom II
  F-15J
  F-16AJ
  F-1
Trainers  T-2 Early · T-2
Foreign 
Thailand  ▄F-5E FCU

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