The F-4E’s powerful radar gave its crews early target detection in the general area to which GCI directed them, but throughout the engagement Phantom crews enjoyed a much greater situational awareness. Until the entry to service of the F-15, the Phantom was the fighter that concentrated the greatest possible thrust in the smallest possible airframe! Prior to the F-4, the HAF’s reliance upon GCI directions took the initiative away from pilots, at least until the merge. It featured two seats, twin engines, muscular performance, a large payload, beyond visual range (BVR) capabilities, and day and night operational capability. Today, Greek financial woes have impacted the military, but the Phantom still plays an important role in the defense of Greek territory.įor its time, the F-4E was comparable to the F-15E Strike Eagle of today. The new jet not only incorporated technological advances but also contributed to a major development in tactics and aviation mentality. The Phantom heralded a new era for the HAF. It marked what has turned out to be a remarkable moment in the history of the Hellenic Air Force (HAF) as the wheels of the very first Greek F-4E Phantom II touched down on runway 34 at Andravida. The history of the Phantom II in Greece dates way back to April 4, 1974. Over 40 years after its service entry with the Hellenic Air Force, and thoroughly rejuvenated by a wide-ranging upgrade program, the F-4 Phantom II remains an essential component of Greece’s Tactical Air Force planning.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |