McDonnell Douglas F-4E Phantom II / ROKAF, no. 80-0743, South Korea, retirement / HM 1:72 HA19074
Description
McDonnell Douglas F-4E Phantom II
ROKAF, no. 80-0743, South Korea, retirement 2024
HM 1:72 HA19074
On June 7, 2024, the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) officially retired its last F-4E Phantom II aircraft after 55 years of service. The decommissioning ceremony took place at Suwon Air Base, home to the 10th Fighter Wing, where the final Phantoms were stationed. South Korea had operated approximately 200 Phantoms since receiving its first F-4Ds in 1969, becoming the fourth country to fly the type. The F-4E fleet played a crucial role in the nation's defense during the Cold War and beyond. Their retirement marked the end of an era as the ROKAF began to transition to modern aircraft like the F-35A Lightning II.
McDonnell Douglas F-4E Phantom II
Designed as a fleet defense fighter for the US Navy, the F-4 Phantom was first flown on May 27, 1958. This twin-engine, long-range all-weather fighter/bomber proved highly adaptable and served in the Marine Corps and the US Air Force as well as in the Navy. During the Vietnam War, it was the principal air superiority fighter for the Navy and the Air Force and was also used for reconnaissance and ground attack. The Phantom continued to serve well into the 1970s and 1980s and even flew missions during the first Gulf War. Finally phased out by the F-14, F-16 and F/A-18, the Phantom was retired in 1996.
Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature:
- Molded metal construction with plastic components.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Inscriptions and posters printed with a stamp that do not fade or fall off like decals.
- opening of awnings, revealing detailed within the cockpit.
- Extended / retracted interchangeable landing gear.
- Display stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Authentic detachable artillery cargoes complete with placards.