Hobby Master 1/72 HA19033 F-4J Phantom II "Mig-17 Killer" 157269, VF-92 "Silver Kings", USS Constellation, 10 May 1972

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 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 inSouth East Asia. In mid 1970 the F-4 Phantom II was being replaced by the new and improved F-14 Tomcat.

The VF-92 “Silver Kings” was originally formed on March 23, 1952 and ten years later re-designated VF-54 that lasted one year when they once again became VF-92. The VF-92 “Silver Kings” sailed onboard the USS Constellation from October 1971 to June 30, 1972. On May 10, 1972 F-4J #157269, flown by LCDR James McDevitt and Lt. Curt Dose, shot down a Vietnam People’s Air Force MiG-21 with an AIM-9 Sidewinder. On June 1, 1984 this aircraft was destroyed in an air collision with another F-4.