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 August 1, 1963 VF-91 was re-designated and for the third VF-194 “Red Lightning”
was used. Between 1964 and 1973 VF-194 made eight deployments to Vietnam. In 1976
VF-194 was re-equipped with the F-4J Phantom II and assigned to the USS Coral Sea.
Three VF-194 F-4Js received the “Ferris Camouflage” scheme named after artist Keith
Ferris. Designed to break up the aircraft’s line and confuse the enemy it was never
officially adopted. One of the 3 aircraft that received this scheme was Bu. No. 153798
NL/212 c/n 2005.

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.

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