The McDonnell-Douglas F-4 Phantom is a long-range, twin-engine, two-seat multi-role fighter designed to operate in difficult weather conditions. The prototype flew on May 27, 1958, and serial production began in 1961. Initially, the F-4 was intended only as an attack aircraft, but since 1955, design work has been directed towards meeting the needs of the United States Navy in a new airborne fighter. The F-4 Phantom turned out to be a very successful machine, which was produced in several versions, exported to many countries and produced under license. The first versions are models A through D, designed for fighter-bombers. The next version is the F-4E, produced since 1967 as a long-range fighter. Reconnaissance versions were also created: RF-4B, RF-4C and RF-4E. The latest versions, the F-4F and F-4G Wild Weassel, are electronic warfare aircraft designed to combat enemy radar. The F-4 saw service in the Vietnam War, the Middle East conflicts (1967, 1973), and the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988). A total of 5,057 F-4 Phantoms were built. Technical data (F-4E version): Maximum speed: 2,370 km/h, rate of climb: 210 m/s, maximum ceiling 18,300 m, maximum range: 2,600 km, armament: fixed - 1 20-mm M61A-1 cannon, overhead - up to 7,255 kg of bombs and missiles.
