July 4, 2020
Yes, America's Really Old F-4 Phantom II Fighters Are Still Flown by Iran
But why?
by Caleb Larson
Key Point: These planes were good for their time. But Iran, which lacks access to many foreign arms, keeps what good tech it can--even if it is old.
The F-4 Phantom is a two-seat, two-engine, all-weather interceptor and fighter-bomber that served with distinction with the United State in Vietnam.
The F-4’s greatest advantage was its speed—Mach 2.5+ in some circumstances, and it’s thrust. Although not terribly maneuverable, the F-4 could engage and disengage from fights virtually at will by accelerating away from the enemy. The airframe held a number of world records, including top speed, altitude, and climbing records.
https://nationalinterest.org/blog/reboot/yes-americas-really-old-f-4-phantom-ii-fighters-are-still-flown-iran-164022
