McDonnell Douglas RF-4B Phantom II

The McDonnell Douglas RF‑4B Phantom II was the United States Navy’s dedicated tactical reconnaissance variant of the legendary F‑4 Phantom fighter-bomber. Developed in the early 1960s, the RF‑4B entered service in 1965, replacing aging RB‑57 and RF‑8 aircraft and remaining operational through the Vietnam War, the Cold War, and the Gulf conflicts. Built on the two‑seat, twin‑engine airframe of the F‑4, the RF‑4B incorporated specialized photographic, infrared, and side‑looking radar (SLAR) sensors housed in a ventral camera pod and an upgraded nose section. Its Pratt & Whitney J79‑AG13 turbojets delivered 17,900 lb of thrust, enabling speeds over Mach 2.2 and a service ceiling above 60 000 feet, essential for high‑altitude, high‑speed intelligence gathering. Avionics upgrades throughout its life added digital tape recorders and later electro‑optical systems, extending its relevance. The aircraft’s ability to rapidly penetrate defended airspace, capture high‑resolution imagery, and return safely made it a cornerstone of naval reconnaissance, shaping tactical planning and strategic decision‑making. Retired in 1999, the RF‑4B’s legacy persists in modern ISR platforms, illustrating the enduring impact of adaptable, high‑performance airframes in aviation history. Its service record of more than 34,000 flight hours underscores the type’s reliability and lasting influence.

McDonnell Douglas

McDonnell Douglas RF-4B Phantom II

Classification

Design & Classification