War Thunder Wiki - User contributions [en]

F-14A IRIAF (USA)

2024-09-01T01:54:01Z

U84733411: Added some pros and cons

{{Specs-Card
|code=f_14a_iriaf
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Seek & Destroy"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/9005-event-get-the-iranian-f-14a-iriaf-in-the-persian-tomcat-event-en|2024 Persian Tomcat event]].

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,202 || 2,191 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.9 || 25.3 || 178.4 || 170.5 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| ___ || ___ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="60%"
|-
! rowspan="2" | Limits
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
! Min sweep
| 1,021 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || rowspan="2" | 1,200 || rowspan="2" | 873 || rowspan="2" | 416 || ~10 || ~5
|-
! Max sweep
| 1,555 || ~11 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 1,200 || < 850 || < 1,555 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="7" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="4" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Pratt & Whitney TF30-P-412A || 2
| colspan="3" | 18,545 kg || colspan="4" | 493 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 18m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 62m fuel
|-
| 1,802 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 20,750 kg || 20,904 kg || 22,084 kg || 23,854 kg || 25,894 kg || __,___ kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 18m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 62m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 4,860 kgf || 8,019 kgf
| 0.77 || 0.77 || 0.73 || 0.67 || 0.63 || _.__
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,808 kgf (1,555 km/h) || 12,389 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.19 || 1.19 || 1.12 || 1.04 || 0.97 || _.__
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! EEGS
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, cheek-mounted (676 rpg)
* 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* Without load
* 2 x AIM-54A Phoenix missiles
* 2 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9P Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7E-2 Sparrow missiles
* 4 x AIM-54A Phoenix missiles
* 2 x R-27R1 missiles
* 2 x Sedjil missiles
* 4 x Fakour-90 missiles
* 14 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (3,500 lb total)
* 14 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (7,000 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 14 x 500 lb Mk 82 AIR bombs (7,000 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb Mk 83 AIR bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 2 x Yasser rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== Pros and cons ===

''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''

'''Pros:'''

* Unique Fakour-90 FOX-3 missile is extremely fast; accelerates much faster than the AIM-54 off the rail thanks to an absurdly powerful launch motor
* R-27R1 is a strong sidegrade to the AIM-7F, trading range for superior maneuverability.
* AN/AWG-9 radar remains very strong for BVR engagements across extreme distances, complimenting the new missiles this plane can carry
* Identical to F-14A (early) in airframe and avionics performance; minimal adjustment period needed for those already familiar with the Tomcat, and is still a competitive two-circle fighter
* Yasser rockets have the largest warhead of any rocket in game due to literally being a 750lb bomb strapped to a MIM-23 motor

*

'''Cons:'''

* Can only carry 2 Yasser rockets, 2 R-27R1s or 2 Sedjil missiles max on the outer pylons
* No access to AIM-7F, only the less capable E-2
* Sedjil missile has far worse G limit than either the AIM-7E-2 or R27R1 (15G), making it less effective at closer distances
* AIM-9P is a downgrade from the 9H in terms of range for only marginal gains in maneuverability
* Fakour-90 is even heavier than the AIM-54, resuting in a very noticable decrease in aircraft acceleration and climb rate
* Shares the regular F-14A's issues of less than desired thrust output and unparalleled exhaust heat due to using the TF30 engine
* Large airframe makes for an easier to hit target in dogfights
* Yasser rockets currently cause themselves to explode if launched in series due to hypersensitive proxy fuse, guaranteeing to blow yourself up in the process

*

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==

''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==

''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''

* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''

{{USA jet aircraft}}

F-5E

2024-08-31T22:57:09Z

U84733411: Trimmed down the section about the countermeasures to bring it more up to date, since countermeasure presets no longer exist.

{{About
| about = American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = F-5 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-5e
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Red Skies"]].

The F-5 series is known to be small, lightweight, and nimble. The F-5E Tiger II, made famous by its use as a US Navy aggressor aircraft, improves on the earlier [[F-5A]] and [[F-5C]] with more powerful engines and a revised airframe, increasing its top speed, acceleration, and climb rate. It also has access to deadly AIM-9J missiles, similar to the [[F-5A (China)|ROCAF F-5A]]. In air-to-air combat, the F-5E still suffers from a subpar top speed and limited armament compared to other top-tier Rank VII fighters, but it remains an excellent dogfighter that can cover the weaknesses of heavier US jets like the [[F-4E]] and [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] Phantoms. In the ground attack role, the F-5E packs a deceptively big punch: few would expect such a small fighter to have AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles and a 30 mm gun pod, among many other options.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 11,582 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 1,756 || 1,746 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.2 || 27.2 || 129.9 || 115.5 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 1,822 || 1,777 || 25.8 || 26.0 || 171.6 || 149.1
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,458  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,018 || 470 || 463 || ~11 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 680 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J85-GE-21A || 2
| colspan="2" | 4,825 kg || colspan="3" | 395 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 38m fuel
|-
| 303 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 5,423 kg || 5,861 kg || 6,379 kg || 6,820 kg || 11,000 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 38m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 1,480 kgf || 2,220 kgf
| 0.82 || 0.76 || 0.70 || 0.65 || 0.40
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 1,575 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 3,011 kgf (1,458 km/h)
| 1.11 || 1.03 || 0.94 || 0.88 || 0.55
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}


The F-5E is a light fighter, so as such it lacks any kind armour. If it loses its wing or tail it becomes incredibly difficult to fly. Surprisingly though, it can take a significant amount of punishment for its size. It can often survive a few hits from 20 and 23 mm cannons, and in the right circumstances, even tank a single infrared missile, though in the latter case it will likely still leave you critically damaged, such as being down an engine and / or missing one or multiple control surfaces. Despite the razorback-like hump of the fuselage being loaded with fuel tanks, fires are uncommon unless a direct hit to one of the engines occurs.

Flaring off incoming infrared missiles is very easy with the F-5E due to the low operating temperature of the engines even at full WEP, a trait shared with all the F-5 variants. While the E model only carries 45 countermeasures compared to the 60 on the A & C, they deploy one at a time and straight down, instead of deploying two at a time and completely rearwards, meaning your effective total is greater than the earlier F-5s, as well as being better at guiding infrareds away from you, ''except'' at ultra-low altitudes where the countermeasures may hit the ground.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! EEGS
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M39A3 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 2 x 20 mm M39A3 cannons, nose-mounted (280 rpg = 560 total)
* 10 x large calibre countermeasures
* 30 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
| rowspan="14" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-5E_(China).png]]</div>
|-
! [[GAU-13/A (30 mm)|30 mm GAU-13/A]] cannons (353 rpg)
| || || || 1 || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || || || 1 || || ||
|-
! [[BLU-1 incendiary]] bombs
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| || 19 || 19 || || 19 || 19 ||
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| || 4 || || || || 4 ||
|-
! [[AGM-65B]] missiles
| || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9E Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9J Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! 150 gal drop tanks
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 3 x 150 gal drop tanks
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
* 2 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles
* 5 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (3,750 lb total)
* 5 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,500 lb total)
* 5 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (2,500 lb total)
* 3 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (3,000 lb total)
* 1 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bomb (2,000 lb total)
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 4 x AGM-65B missiles
* 1 x 30 mm GAU-13/A cannon (353 rpg)
* 5 x BLU-1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

The F-5E is one of the most manoeuvrable fighters at its rank. The F-5E is a very prevalent gun fighter due to its conservation of energy and turn radius but has weaker guns compared to the M61 Vulcan found on other American jets.

Before taking off, consider selecting a lighter fuel load to increase the {{PAGENAME}}'s speed and lower the turn radius, but using the afterburner will eat through the fuel due to its high inefficiency. Another suggestion is to disable the {{PAGENAME}}'s radar as the {{PAGENAME}} has no radar-guided missiles, so the radar isn't necessary in combat and may harm the {{PAGENAME}}'s combat performance due to it tripping enemy {{Annotation|RWR|Radar Warning Receiver}}. After taking off, climbing too high will make the {{PAGENAME}} an easy target for enemy missiles, and without any ground to notch with or mask with it can be difficult to dodge a radar-guided missile. Staying below 10,000 feet (~3,000 metres) and going off towards the side of the battle at the start will let the {{PAGENAME}} work from the inside out, maximizing its survivability.

After the battle starts, {{PAGENAME}} pilots will want to abuse its energy conservation and turn radius to pick off threats in one vs. one fights. The {{PAGENAME}}'s primary targets should be MiG-23, F-4J, and other F-5Es as they pose a large threat to the {{PAGENAME}}'s team. In a fight, constantly check behind the {{PAGENAME}} to defend against missiles. Maintain a relatively high speed, around 550-700 mph (~880-1,100 km/h) for the best turning. Whenever the {{PAGENAME}}'s plane is low on speed, disengage and try to regain that speed.

If an enemy jet follows the {{PAGENAME}}, be prepared to defend against a missile and reverse a turn, as long as the {{PAGENAME}} has speed and is in close range to an enemy jet, the {{PAGENAME}} will be able to win a dogfight against almost anything. The {{PAGENAME}} has the advantage against most jets in a turn-radius fight except against the MiG-21, Kfir, and JA37 Viggen. These enemy jets have very similar performance, but bleeds speed much easier, so a {{PAGENAME}} pilots can try to force them to lose their speed by maintaining a turn rate fight, where the {{PAGENAME}} will hold the advantage and force them to lose their speed. When using the plane's missiles, the AIM-9J has solid flare resistance, but will be defeated most of the time by an observant enemy. Pilots should only use missiles when an opponent lacks the speed to evade the threat, or against an enemy who is distracted by a friendly. The F-5E is a huge threat in battle, and can survive against lots of enemies at once, but without teammates the F-5E becomes an easy target. If there are teammates in the area, a {{PAGENAME}} pilots can draw enemies into a tunnel vision onto the {{PAGENAME}}, which will allow allies to pick the enemies off with ease if the {{PAGENAME}} baits the enemy into a low speed turn or inside loop.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Improved engines over its predecessor, improving its speed and manoeuvrability
** Efficient afterburner allows the use of lower fuel reserves, further improving performance
* Amazing energy retention above .90 Mach
* Has AIM-9J missiles that are impossible to react to by sound alone (when you hear them, it's already too late to flare or dodge)
* Large selection of air-to-ground armaments, including TV guided Maverick air-to-ground missiles
* Generous ammunition capacity for guns and great modern anti-tank ammunition for the 30 mm
* Small target
* Has gun aim assist when locking the target with a radar, making a general tactic to remove F-5 (force a head-on) near useless for planes that do not have it themselves
* Modern RWR with IFF + track, launch and threat type detection

'''Cons:'''

* Even though it has improved engines over the F-5C, it still has a low top speed when compared to the higher tier competition
* M39A3 cannons don't deal as much damage as cannons like the M61 Vulcan, or the Soviet GSh-23L
* No radar missiles, no all-aspect IR missiles
* Radar lacks IFF and different search angle modes
* Can only carry a maximum of two air-to-air missiles, making this plane mostly a gun fighter
* No ballistic computer for bombs or rockets (slightly inconvenient in air RB)

== History ==

In the late 1960s, Northrop realized that by using an improved version of the General Electric J85 engine with more maximum thrust, the flight performance of the N-156 fighter (F-5 Freedom Fighter) could be improved a lot. During the test, the new J85-GE-21 engine was approved that it could produce almost 23% more thrust than the earlier J85-GE-13 engine used by early produced F-5A/B Freedom Fighter, F-5C Skoshi Tiger and T-38 Talon, which was 5,000 pounds maximum thrust in afterburner mode and 3,500 pounds thrust in military mode.
[[File:1200px-Northrop F-5E (Tail No. 11417) 061006-F-1234S-067.jpg|thumb|332x332px|Official roll-out of first USAF F-5E Tiger II]]
As a result, the sixth production F-5B trainer was chosen to be modified with two new J85-GE-21 engines at Edwards AFB during the summer of 1969, and this upgraded Freedom Fighter with J85-GE-21 engines was called F-5-21 at that time. Overall, the new J85-GE-21 engine's weight was 100 lbs less than J85-GE-13 engine, the length of J85-GE-21 engine was 7 inches longer than J85-GE-13 engine, and an additional stage was added to the front of the J85-GE-13's previous eight-stage compressor to provide extra power, though the single rotor structure was retained, apart from that, two auxiliary intake doors were added to the fuselage above the wing trailing edge (one on each side of fuselage) to provide additional air to the engines for added thrust during take-off and low-speed flight. In Autumn of 1969, USAF decided to hold a new competition to select a new international fighter for Allied countries, and Northrop's F-5-21 program was announced the winner of new international fighter on 20th November 1970. Northrop received the contract from USAF for the further development of F-5E fighter on 8th December 1970. In January 1971, USAF changed the new F-5 fighter's designation from F-5-21 to F-5E, and the latter was named Tiger II in memory of the previous Skoshi Tiger Combat Evaluation program in Vietnam.

As for the airborne avionics system, a Central Air Data Computer was introduced on the new F-5E Tiger II, it could convert raw air data inputs into computed output, and transmit the results to other airborne electrical equipment such as Lead Computing Optical Sight System (LCOSS) and Stability Augmenter System. The new AN/ASG-29 LCOSS replaced the analogue fixed optical sight used by F-5A Freedom Fighter and F-5C Skoshi Tiger, which consisted a gyro lead computer (GLC) unit and an optical display unit (ODU), also an AIM-9 Sidewinder missile select switch was provided to select the appropriate missile launch envelope program stored in the GLC, and the ODU contained sight controls, a mirror drive assembly, and a combing glass which reflected the aiming reticle. Late production F-5Es changed the original AN/ASG-29 LCOSS to the new AN/ASG-31 LCOSS. The most important equipment of the F-5E was the new AN/APQ-153 multi-mode, forward-looking, X-band pulse, Search and Fire Control Radar, which could provide air-to-air search, range, and track information for use in Air-to-Air gunnery and missile launch, it formed the F-5E fighter's Fire Control System together with LCOSS unit, also the late production version of F-5E used AN/APQ-159 (V) 3 search and fire control radar instead of the previous AN/APQ-153 radar.

As for the aerodynamic design, in order to increase the manoeuvrability of F-5E, Northrop decided to increase the total area of Leading Edge Extensions (LEX) sections which were 2.75 times as large as that on the F-5A Freedom Fighter, also the wing area was more than 9% greater than that of F-5A Freedom Fighter, this improvement helped to increase lift and CL max (Coefficient of Lift) in high angle attack situations, also it could improve take-off and landing performance of F-5E too. The CL max of F-5E was increased to 1.4 compared with slightly lower than 1.2 for the F-5A Freedom Fighter, and the maximum lift-drag ratio at subsonic cruise speed was 10.

Thanks to the increased maximum power of new engine, the maximum level flight speed of F-5E was increased from Mach 1.4 to Mach 1.6, the maximum climb rate at sea level was also increased to more than 189 m/s, the empty weight was increased from 3,600 kg to 4,300 kg, and the maximum take off weight was increased to 9,800 kg, also the maximum internal fuel capability of F-5E was increased from 3,790 pounds to 4,536 pounds.

On 10th August 1972, the first F-5E completed its first flight at Edwards AFB. By March 1973, six F-5Es comprised the test force. One interesting fact was that during these flight tests at Edwards AFB, at least one F-5E fighter was painted with Imperial Iranian Air Force (IIAF) desert camouflage because at that time Iranian government was still willing to buy American military equipment. The Saudi Arabian Air Force decided to buy several F-5E and F-5F in 1976, which the program was named Peace Hawk IV, as the Saudi Arabian Air Force wanted to add the AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missile firing ability and Radar Warning Receiver equipment on their F-5 fighters, F-5E 71-1418 was chosen to conduct the test flights with AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles, also F-5E 75-00462 was chosen to test the new Chaff/Flare dispenser and AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles too. Except for Saudi Arabia and Iran, many other third-world countries such as Brazil, Kenya, and Malaysia became the customer of F-5 fighters, and the total number of countries and regions who received F-5Es was 37. Though the Imperial Iranian Air Force (IIAF) was changed to Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF) as a result of the coup in 1979, but during the Iran-Iraq war in 1980s, many former Imperial Iranian Air Force pilots who were trained by the US decided to join the battle against Iraq with the name of Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force after they were released by the government, even one time a F-5E of IRIAF successfully shot down a MiG-25 Foxbat interceptor of Iraq Air Force, the total air-to-air kills made by F-5 fighters of IRIAF was 23.

By late November 1986, the F-5E/F production line in California was finally shut down after it completed the last seven aircraft on the contract. Northrop built 2,603 F-5 fighters in total including 1,399 E and F models (793 F-5E and 146 F-5F according to some sources). The first unit of USAF equipped with F-5Es was the 425th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron (TFTS) at Williams AFB, which was responsible for the majority of the training of customer nation air and ground crew, they used F-5Es until June 1989, 1,499 students around the world were graduated from the 425th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron (TFTS). Apart from that, Imperial Iranian Air Force started to receive their F-5Es in 1974, but as the war situation of South Vietnam became worse, American decided to divert 18 F-5Es from the later Iranian order to support the Republic of Vietnam Air Force.

As a result, a total of 55 F-5Es were transported by the USA to South Vietnam before they lost the war on 30th April 1975. Except for battle damage and loss, about 27 F-5E fighters and 60-87 F-5A/B fighters that hadn't escaped to Thailand were captured by the North Vietnamese army after the defeat of South Vietnam. Through Vietnamese government decided to retain a small number of F-5 fighters and used them during the invasion of Cambodia, and they also sent some of the F-5 fighters to the Soviet Union. At first, the Soviet aircraft engineers didn't show much interest in the F-5Es because of the low thrust of the J85 engine, and they still believed that their fighters were much better than Western products. According to the estimation report of F-5E written by the Soviet engineers, they even thought that F-5E's level acceleration performance was only as slow as a piston fighter, also the estimated rate of climb at sea level was only 160 m/s. As a comparison, the true rate of climb of F-5A Freedom Fighter was 189 m/s.

Therefore, they thought that using the latest MiG-23 fighters against F-5E fighters was really bullying, so they decided to let the MiG-21bis fighter, which entered into service in 1972, conduct simulated air combat with a captured F-5E. The final result of that simulated air combat was beyond everyone's expectations: no matter what combat manoeuvre the MiG-21bis fighter did during the test, it couldn't avoid the fate of being shot down by the F-5E! The frustrated Soviet aircraft engineers decided to let their most advanced MiG-23M fighter at that time teach the F-5E fighter a lesson, but the result was almost the same: though the MiG-23M fighter could win in Beyond Visual Range engagements because of its R-23R medium-range semi-active radar-guided missile, however, the F-5E fighter could always maintain at the six o'clock position of MiG-23M fighter through various air combat manoeuvres. At last, the Soviet Union officially claimed that their aircraft was fully capable of competing with the most advanced fighter in the West at the time, but only the Soviet pilots knew that their nightmare would continue until today.

[[File:1200px-Three F-5E agressors from Alconbury 1983.jpg|left|thumb|381x381px|Three USAF aggressor unit F-5Es in formation.]]
Back in 1972, the USAF realised the need for dissimilar aircraft combat training, and they began to use T-38 Talon trainers as an aggressor aircraft at Nellis AFB, Nevada. Although the USAF wanted the more desirable F-5E jets to act as the aggressor's aircraft, the F-5Es produced at the time were prioritized to South Vietnam to save the situation. After the Saigon government finally fell in 1975, many F-5Es including those former Republic of Vietnam Air Force's planes that escaped to Thailand successfully were transported to those aggressor squadrons of the USAF, apart from their homeland, the USAF also established some aggressor squadrons in England and the Philippines to train with other fighter squadrons overseas. As for the US Navy, they also realized the need for dissimilar aircraft combat training, even earlier than the Air Force. The famous Top Gun program was first established in 1969, initially with A-4 Skyhawk, but later it was changed to T-38 Talon and F-5E. In the 1980s, the U.S Navy introduced the F-16N Fighting Falcon and Israel F-21A Kfir as the new aggressor aircraft, therefore, the use of F-5E waned. In 2009, Northrop Grumman delivered the last 44 ex-Swiss Air Force F-5E to the US Navy after modification for use as aggressor aircraft, these 41 single seat fighters and three fighters modified from F-5E and F-5F were renamed F-5N by US Navy (one interesting fact was that in 1965, Northrop also tested a modified F-5A 63-8421 fighter which was equipped with two new J85-GE-15 engine, and this aircraft was initially named F-5N too, the N referred to Northrop), these aircraft were served in VFC-13 and VFC-111 aggressor squadrons in Nevada and Florida.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-5e Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|Zxuj5qagO0Q|'''F-5E In War Thunder : A Basic Review''' - ''Tim's Variety War Thunder'''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-5 (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/526079-f-5e/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
* [https://archive.org/details/T.O.1F5E11984OCR/mode/2up/ Technical Order 1F-5E-1 - Flight Manual for F-5E/F-5F Aircraft]

{{AirManufacturer Northrop}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2024-08-31T20:16:42Z

U84733411: Reverted the part about base bombing to the previous way it was written. The wikipage should sound unbiased and neutral to any playstyle a vehicle is used for, not passive aggressive and potentially demeaning. Save that attitude for the in-game chat.

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The F-4 Phantom II served its most notable service period in the Vietnam War for both the US Air Force (USAF) and US Navy (USN). The USN had the [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] as their latest aircraft, and it began to show its age in the post Vietnam War period. A modernization program began to keep the F-4J up to date with latest upgrades. Improvements were done in avionics, weapon systems, airframe, and undercarriage, but the two most notable improvements were wing leading-edge slats, for improved manoeuvrability, and new smokeless engines. The F-4S flew for USN up until the Phantom's retirement in the late 1980s, replaced by more modern aircraft like the [[F-14A Early|F-14 Tomcat]] and the F-18 Hornet.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], is one of the top versions of the F-4 Phantom II in the game. While the overall play style is not very different from the F-4J, the performance improvements in manoeuvrability should allow the F-4S to occasionally get the upper hand over even more modern fighter designs that it can encounter. Outside the dogfighting range, the usual complement of BVR weaponry like the Sparrows alongside the PD radar should allow the F-4S to shoot down careless enemy fighters who can't evade in time.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10B || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armour plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilot and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take a few hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain airborne. Higher calibre guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. As with the F-4J, the RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) in the back of the cockpit cannot take control of the aircraft if the pilot is knocked out, as it lacks the dual controls found on the USAF variants of the Phantom (C & E.)

The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20 mm in calibre. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection and rear of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. There are additional fuel tanks located in the upper-front of the wings and in the bottom of the fuselage, but they are a much smaller and thinner target, so the chances that they get hit are much lower in comparison. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

It is important to note that your countermeasures fire in pairs of two; with the introduction of separate flare/chaff firing, it is now possible to optimize your countermeasure drops in order to defend against both SARH and IR air-to-air missiles. 60 countermeasures at this BR is roughly the norm, but as you may face ARH missiles in the form of AIM-120As on the [[AV-8B_Plus|AV-8B+]] it is best to keep the idea of chaffing separately in the back of your head at all times.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! EEGS
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1* || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1* ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2* || || || || || || 2* || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase manoeuvrability below ~970-1000 km/h SPD by allowing you to pull more AoA (Angle of Attack) which helps to tighten down your turning circle, but results in noticeably more energy bleed. Inversely, the slats will reduce the amount of AoA you can pull above the priorly-mentioned airspeed, which massively improves energy retention and delays pilot blackouts at the cost of an overall wider turn circle. This ability to control your AoA at various speeds can be an invaluable tool in winning engagements if properly mastered, but remember that you're still a Phantom; the F-4S can't turn tight enough to competitively dogfight most other top-tier aircraft even with the manoeuvrability upgrade, but it's good enough that you may be able to last in an extended engagement against a single opponent until an ally comes to your aid. 

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs, which are functionally very similar to their predecessor, the AIM-9Gs. Even though they have a fairly average turn performance with a max overload of 18G, their respectable range and long guidance time make them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F Sparrow, a Semi-Active Radar Homing missile. With enough range to reliably hit 15km+ shots from front-aspect, it offers a much needed range boost from the lacking-in-range AIM-7E-2s and starts pulling in much faster than AIM-7Es, making them an excellent all-rounder missile. Head-on snapshots from less than 3 km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit, so it may be beneficial to roll your aircraft to lessen the G load the missile will have to pull in some circumstances.

There are two types of vehicles you have to be wary of in the F-4S as of current: 4th generation fighters that completely outclass you, and Harriers. First off, 4th generation fighters such as the [[F-14 (Family) | F-14]], [[F-15A]], [[F-16A]] and [[MiG-29]] all have you completely beat in terms of flight performance. While you may attempt to fight them in a 1v1, unless the enemy pilot makes a severe lapse in judgement it will be all but certain you will be the one ejecting out of your plane. On the topic of missile armament, while the F-15A still comes equipped with AIM-7Ms (which are functionally identical to your AIM-7Fs) and the F-16A lacks SARH/ARH missiles, the F-14 comes equipped with the AIM-54 Phoenix Active Radar Homing (ARH) missile which has an effective launch range at least twice that of your 7Ms and the MiG-29 has 2 R-27ER/ET SARH missiles which have better range, a stronger motor and significantly faster speeds than your AIM-7M can hope to achieve, meaning even if you launch first you may not be guaranteed a win. The latter two aircraft also come equipped with a Track-While-Scan (TWS) mode capable radar, which can easily give your position away even from extreme ranges while your radar needs a hard lock to make sure if a target is, in fact, an enemy flying towards you at maximum speed.

The second problem you may face is, as said prior, Harriers. This may sound odd, as Harriers are a much lower Battle Rating than the F-4S, and even in a 1v1 situation aren't excellent dogfighters unless they take full advantage of their VTOL capabilities, but it is also of the most vital importance to remember the [[AV-8B_Plus | AV-8B+]] for the simple fact that it has AIM-120As. ARH missiles are much less reliant on holding a lock on the target than SARH missiles due to the seeker built into the missile itself, so all the AV-8B+ has to do is obtain a lock within visual range (<10km or so) and fire a missile at you, as the missile's own seeker will almost instantly turn itself on and lock your aircraft. To dodge these ARH missiles, you should first lower your altitude (if possible) to be as close to ground level as possible, as multipathing means that the missiles will not be able to track you properly if you are hugging the ground. However, this may not always be possible, or the terrain may have too many trees to realistically dive down and hold that altitude - so in that case, what should you do? The ideal way to dodge an ARH missile is not to try and notch the missile (keeping the missile lock 90 degrees to your aircraft), as the missile seeker is not as easily spoofed as a SARH missile. Instead, you should strive to 'go cold', i.e. turn a full 180 degrees around from the missile to make it harder for the missile to track you - in general, it is recommended to try both and see what works best for you depending on the situation you're in. What matters is the ability to be aware of the possibilty of facing ARH in a full uptier, so you can control your encounters as much as possible.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a rocket CCIP, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their firing range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful Pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
* Very potent SARH missiles for its BR
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
* Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance
* Slats provide valuable ability to control AoA and energy retention, increasing adaptability in aerial combat

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod adversely affects flight performance
* The 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon is less efficient than other cannons at this BR
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|m-dyqOq5Xlo|'''F-4S Beginner's Tutorial in 10 Minutes''' - ''Jaek_''|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

MiG-3-34

2024-04-08T00:50:15Z

U84733411: Spotted a minor error and accordingly fixed it.

{{About
| about = Soviet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = MiG-3 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_3_series_34
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The MiG-3-34 was an experimental variant of the MiG-3 series, that tried to address the relatively weak firepower that previous models had. The MiG-3-34 was meant to be a high-altitude fighter, and was one of the few Soviet fighters capable of doing so, but still not at the level of American or German fighters like the P-51 and Bf 109. The MiG-3 suffered from a lot of problems in its development, from negligent quality control in the assembly line to deficient armament and poor oxygen supply. The MiG-3 was caught in a tough spot during Operation Barbarossa: instead of intercepting bombers, it clashed against much more agile Bf 109s. The aircraft was deemed much inferior and quickly phased out in favour of more capable low altitude Yak and LaGG fighters.

Introduced in [[Update 1.41]], the MiG-3-34 is a fairly competitive aircraft for its BR. It should be played similarly to aircraft like the I-185 and I-225, using its good top speed and acceleration. Since it lacks the agility and armament to go toe-to-toe against aircraft like the Spitfire and Bf 109, the MiG-3-34 should climb to high altitudes, especially to intercept enemy bombers. At altitudes above 4,000 m, the MiG-3-34's engine starts to perform at its maximum capacity, and its lack of agility is compensated at higher altitudes when speed and acceleration starts to become more important.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

The MiG-3-34 is not a turnfighter, it's a Boom & Zoom aircraft. It is a bit sluggish when turning, although the flaps can be used to turn better. This aircraft has a good climb rate for its BR. Once upgraded, the plane is enjoyable, though it may be a bit challenging to master.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 7,800 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 587 || 569 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.2 || 24.1 || 12.8 || 12.8 || rowspan="2" | 450
|-
! Upgraded
| 641 || 612 || 20.8 || 22.0 || 20.2 || 16.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 457 || 428 || 280 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 350 || < 280 || < 350 || > 370
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

The plane's protection is average overall. The placement of critical components is good, with fuel tanks being self-sealing with neutral gas pressurization, and close to the cockpit. The pilot has 8 mm armour in the back of the seat, and 8.5 mm armour under the seat which protect against stray bullets and direct hits from small calibre guns, but do not protect against large calibre machine guns & autocannons. The lack of armoured glass and side protection for the cockpit makes it easy to take out the pilot in head on enagements, high deflection shots, or if it's tailing a bomber.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|ShVAK (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)

== Usage in battles ==


The MiG-3-34 is an interceptor which are mainly used to ''intercept'' bombers and strike aircraft, and take them out quickly with its 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons which can deal large amounts of damage in close range. Be mindful of bombers with large fuselages that are designed to take large amounts of damage; these can drain your ammo quickly and force you to be exposed to their defensive turrets for longer. All interceptors get an air spawn behind the base, use this to your advantage and find a good climb ratio that lets you gain both altitude and speed, and keep in mind that MiG series interceptors work best at high altitudes.

Use the high-powered 20 mm cannons wisely because they have only 200 rounds per gun, which depletes faster than you'd expect. Try to aim for critical components such as engines, control surfaces, and crew members. Avoid getting in direct line of sight of a bomber or strike aircraft's gunners, as you can easily get the pilot taken out by their defensive turrets. Try to intercept from the side and aim for the tail, wings, or cockpit. Consider avoiding the tracer belt if you're focusing on bombers and strike aircraft, as the lack of a dedicated penetration round that can travel through the fuselage and armor may cause problems with taking out crew members and vital components in sturdy & heavily armored, or spacious airframes.

For engaging other fighters, Boom & Zoom tactics work favorably well in the MiG-3-34 due to the typically less-aware players at this BR and the MiG's great stability at high speed. Climbing at 20 degrees at the start of the match should get you to an altitude that puts you above most of the enemy fighters and roughly within equal altitude of the bombers (ideally climb to 18,000 ft / 5486 m, which is easily achievable by maintaining the 20 degree climb upon spawning). Only the best climbers of this BR range that you can face like the Spitfire Mk.I / II and Bf 109 E / F are more likely to be at equal or greater altitude than you if they're flown by more experienced players that understand the importance of altitude advantage.

Keep in mind that your maximum dive speed is lower than the Spitfire, Bf 109, and most notably the Ki-44-I due to the MiG-3's wooden construction of its wings, making it extremely hard or nigh impossible to outrun them if they choose to dive on you. The Bf 109 E & F in particular can dive just shy of 100 km/h faster than you before they start disintegrating, and the Ki-44 a blistering 150 km/h faster, but the 109s suffer badly from pitch compression at those speeds, which may open up an opportunity to force an overshoot, and the Ki-44 has very poor energy retention, so even though they can dive much faster than you can and turn much quicker, they can't hold onto that speed if they're forced to make even a few turns. To avoid surpassing the structural limit of the wings, cut the engine throttle to 0%, and dive at a shallower angle or do some horizontal turns to bleed speed when nearing the structural limit if your target is quite a distance away from you. Cutting the engine to idle also makes for a stealthier attack due to there not being the warning sound of a roaring engine rapidly approaching.

With the good vertical energy retention the MiG-3 has after coming out of a dive, you can energy trap enemy aircraft fairly effectively with maneuvers such as the [[wikipedia:Wingover|wingover]], especially against those with particularly poor vertical retention like the Spitfire & Hurricane, I-16 (in the rare instance that Soviet-built aircraft are on both teams in an RB match), A6M2 Zero, and Ki-44, but be more cautious when using such manoeuvres against aircraft that also have good vertical retention like the Bf-109E & F, P-38 Lightning, F6F Hellcat, and F4U Corsair, as whether or not you can successfully energy trap them is much more dependent on your own airspeed vs theirs. The Hellcat in particular is extremely dangerous as it was specifically designed to have excellent boom and zoom performance to counter the A6M Zero.

The MiG-3 can ''to a lesser extent'' be used as a ground attacker, but it is ill advised due to the sub-optimal armour protection for the pilot and complete lack for the vital components, low ammo count and low quantity of guns, mediocre penetration of the AP-I round, and the fact that it can't carry any bombs or rockets. It's better suited for being used in anti-CAS against strike aircraft and medium bombers that other planes and weaker-armed SPAAGs may have trouble taking down.

Using the MiG-3 as a dogfighter is sub-optimal, as it simply can't turn tightly enough to be competitive with most of the other single engine fighters at this BR, especially the British and Japanese. Even against some twin-engines you may be outperformed, such as the P-38 and Beaufighter Mk. VIc. Resort to this as a last stand if no other options are avaliable, and hope your allies will arrive in time to assist or that the enemy makes a grave mistake.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons are powerful at close range, fairly accurate, have decent velocity, and come with excellent belt options
* Durable construction which can handle up to 700 km/h dives, and good stability at high speed to make aiming easier
* Good acceleration at low speed thanks to its powerful engine
* It takes a while to overheat the engine with WEP / impossible to overheat at high altitude, and quickly cools down when throttled back to 100%
* Great climb rate
* Strong flaps which can be used to decrease turn time
* Roll rate is good at high altitudes
* Good vertical energy retention allows effective usage of energy trap manoevures
* Self-sealing fuel tanks with NGP makes it very unlikely to catch fire, or remain on fire long enough to cause severe damage

'''Cons:'''

* Limited ammunition of 200 rounds per gun
* Not very manoeuvrable in turns
* Pilot, engine, and coolant systems are vulnerable due to sub-optimal armour and lack of bulletproof glass
* No additional armament other than 20 mm cannons, will likely need time to adjust from earlier MiG-3 armaments
* Maximum dive speed is unfavorable compared to the majority of American, some British & German, and specific Japanese fighters

== History ==


Though riddled with shortcomings, the I-200/MiG-1 fighter/interceptor aircraft proved to be both a popular and capable aircraft with pilots that had experience flying them. To address the oft-cited shortcomings, aircraft designers Mikoyan and Gurevich set out to rectify these issues, not only to make the aircraft more pilot-friendly but to make it a more effective fighter/interceptor.

By utilizing a full-sized model of the aircraft in a wind tunnel, designers quickly set about documenting necessary changes in the aircraft's configuration. The increase of the outer wing dihedral improved the wing's overall stability and lengthening the fuselage by just four inches improved the horizontal stability of the aircraft. By happenstance, the minute change in length created enough space for an additional 66 gallon (250 litres) fuel tank installation behind the pilot seat. Inert exhaust gases were routed to the fuel tanks to help improve the survivability of the aircraft and pilot by reducing the likelihood of fuel fires if enemy gunfire punctured the fuel tanks. Other improvements included strengthening the landing gear, larger main wheels, extending the canopy glazing aft for better visibility, improved gunsight, updated configuration of the instrument panel and an overall increase to 750 rounds of ammunition per machine gun.

After making the recommended updates and changes, the heavily modified I-200/MiG-1 (fourth revision) made its maiden flight on 29 October 1940. The Soviet state accepted this version of the aircraft during December 1940 State acceptance trials and due to the significant changes made to the plane was renamed to MiG-3. Though the Mikoyan-Gurevich design bureau rectified many of the MiG-1's deficiencies, unfortunately, the resulting aircraft ended up being 550 lbs (250 kg) heavier and reduced service ceiling by 1,500 ft (457 m). They also took approximately a minute longer to reach 16,000 ft (4,900 m) than the original MiG-1s. Two other positive outcomes for the MiG-3 was an overall increase in the aircraft's speed at altitude and sea-level along with an increase in its service range.

Many of the initial MiG-3 airframes pushed out to the VVS regiments which were considered poor quality and unusable. After an inquiry completed, a panel found that the Soviet Air Force Research Institute was negligent in their duty to monitor the quality of the aircraft coming off the assembly line. After several demotions of senior managers and the execution of the institute head, new management set to address the problems with the MiG-3.

Though designed as a high-altitude bomber-interceptor, the MiG-3's pilot's oxygen supply was woefully inadequate, both fuel and oil pumps failed to keep necessary pressure at altitude and pilot inexperience with high altitude flying all played against the aircraft's abilities. Once again, the MiG Design Bureau set out to fix these deficiencies and when complete, the MiG-3 design teams optimized it for high altitude operations above 20,000 ft (6,000 m). Here the MiG-3 boasted almost a 20 mph (26 km/h) speed advantage over the German Bf 109E, though at sea-level, this advantage disappeared and the MiG-3 had roughly the same top speed as the Bf 109.

The weapons of the MiG-3 always seemed lacking compared to other aircraft such as the Bf 109 which typically sported a 20 mm canon along with machine guns. MiG-3s of all iterations only had machine guns in the 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm varieties. Though experiments with wing-mounted gun pods and rockets took place, reduction of airspeed due to them often resulted in the pilots having them removed, one of the few times where fighter pilots prefered streamlined aircraft over firepower. Ultimately the new gun sight was not fit for the task, so pilots often relied on getting as close to the enemy aircraft as possible before opening fire, sometimes within point-blank range to ensure a hit.

Leading up to the German invasion titled Operation Barbarossa, MiG-3s found homes at front-line regiments. Here, they could ideally intercept any hostile bomber or reconnaissance aircraft that flew over such as the German Ju-86P. Unfortunately, at the beginning of the German invasion, the MiG-3, though one of the best fighters available to Soviet pilots, proved to be unsuited for the task at hand. Instead of intercepting bombers and reconnaissance aircraft, they instead fought more agile Bf 109s and such in a fashion which negated all of the MiG-3's advantages, and it struggled. With the Bf 109 being more agile and had better weapons, the MiG-3 fought for a foothold but often lost. It was around this time that other Soviet fighters such as the Yak and LaGG series aircraft were debuting and showing their effectiveness at lower altitude combat with more agility and better weapon options. Forcing the aircraft to work as a bomber and ground attack aircraft proved to be an, even more, less effective than as a low-altitude fighter.

Some Soviet pilots did find success while flying the MiG-3. Aleksander Pokryshkin was one such pilot, as his initial foray into air combat was at the controls of a MiG-3. It was while flying the MiG-3 that Pokryshkin scored several victories against the German Bf 109. However, it was also during this time he realized that Soviet air combat doctrine was outdated, and he took detailed notes of his and other's accounts at air combat to determine a better way to fight. Pokryshkin's experience in the MiG-3 helped shape future Soviet air combat tactics for pilots flying more capable aircraft such as the Yak-1B, P-39K and Lavochkin fighters. Pokryskin was quoted as saying, "''The operational advantage of the MiG-3 seemed to be obscured by its certain defects. However, these advantages could undoubtedly be exploited by a pilot able to discover them''."

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_3_series_34 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

[[File:MiG-3-34 Sanya V. Litvyak.mp4|thumb|"Sanya V. Litvyak" collaboration camouflage|none]]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Curtiss [[P-40 (Family)|P-40]]
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
* Messerschmitt [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1 (Family)|Yak-1]]

== External links ==


* [https://old-forum.warthunder.ru/index.php?/topic/100791-mig-3-34-serii/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance (Russian Forum)]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{USSR fighters}}

F-14A Early

2024-04-04T08:09:27Z

U84733411: Updated parts of the page to reflect the current state of the game, grammatical / sentence structure changes in some areas (hopefully for the better)

{{About
| about = American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the other version
| link = F-14B
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f_14a_early
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

One of the most iconic US naval fighter jets of the Cold War era, the two-seater '''F-14A''' was developed as the US Navy's fleet-defense fighter jet to protect their carrier groups over vast swathes of ocean against Soviet bombers carrying anti-ship missiles. Developed after the US Navy's failed F-111B program, the F-14A was first deployed in 1974 wielding the advanced [[AN/AWG-9]] radar and up to eight missiles, including the iconic [[AIM-54A Phoenix|Phoenix missile]], to target and destroy enemy targets from extremely long ranges. Although it introduced a host of new capabilities, the F-14A suffered from its TF30 engines, which were subject to frequent failures, and other issues with the aircraft's flight characteristics that caused regular accidents.

Introduced in [[Update "Danger Zone"]], the F-14A can engage enemy air targets at far greater distances than most enemy aircraft, allowing the F-14A to take the initiative and achieve air superiority by firing first. At long range, Phoenix missiles force enemy fighters to actively monitor the sky even when they cannot yet see or detect the F-14A. While Phoenix missiles may prove too sluggish to target enemy fighters in high-speed merges, its [[AIM-7F Sparrow|Sparrows]] can engage manoeuvring targets at short and medium ranges before engaging at closer ranges with [[AIM-9H Sidewinder|Sidewinders]] and M61 Vulcan cannon fire.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

The F-14A might be seen underpowered compared to other aircraft, primarily the F-4J Phantom II and other Phantom variants such as the Phantom FG.1. While it is true that the engines are not as powerful, the F-14A is far superior in terms of top speed and energy management. However, insufficient power can be noticed when zoom climbing or when turning at low speed, and regaining the speed back can take a while. The engines also consume tremendous amounts of fuel: while the F-14A can stay in the air for at least one hour with full fuel tanks, at full afterburner (WEP) the jet can fly for only 7 minutes at sea level.

The F-14A is more of a two-circle dogfighter since it keeps speed very well in hard turns, but might not have as much nose authority as other planes to win one-circle fights (such as scissors and anything similar when you turn into the opponent's nose). Although it can still beat planes like the MiG-23MLD in the instantaneous turn-rate performance, delta-wing fighters like the J35 or MiG-21 could have the advantage during the first seconds of the fight. Like other planes with variable wing geometry, the F-14A reaches its most efficient turn rate performance when wings are swept fully forward (set to 0%) and that can be achieved only by using the manual wing sweep controls. Since it is semi-automatic, the wing will automatically change its position after reaching around ~800 km/h IAS.

The most optimal turning speed is around 900 km/h IAS at sea level (it reaches the highest sustained turn rate there), but the best is actually between 700 and 830 km/h IAS since any faster, and it becomes impossible to maintain the turn without the crew blacking out. At such speeds, the F-14A in a clean configuration with 30 minutes of fuel can reach up to 23 deg/s of sustained turn rate, which is better than any MiG-23, Su-17, or even other more manoeuvrable fighters like the MiG-19. Both the sustained and instantaneous turn rate can be improved by using combat flaps, which can function at speeds up to 850 km/h IAS.

Thanks to the variable wing sweep, the F-14A is able to move its center of mass and thus increase or decrease its roll rate. High sweep allows higher speeds at reduced roll rate and vice versa. Low sweep increases roll rate and energy retention at subsonic speeds.

To get the most of its turn rate performance in Simulator Battles, you should always try to use the manual SAS (Stability Augmentation System) mode. The damping mode severely limits its nose authority, and it is harder to win fights against planes like the MiG-21 or other delta-wing fighters. In general, combat flaps should always be used when you are about to merge with the enemy plane, as they not only increase the sustained turn rate but also improves nose authority. In turn, it becomes easier to get lead on the enemy plane and to control the plane when using manual SAS mode. The player should still be very careful with pulling the stick around 500 km/h IAS. Below that speed, it's very easy to abruptly lose speed, reach the critical AoA, and stall out the plane. Pulling the stick all the way to yourself should be done only when you are going for snap shots. The other downside manual SAS mode is the plane is much more sensitive to controls, especially in pitch. For this reason, it is recommended to use the damping SAS mode during cruising and BVR combat.

While using the manual SAS mode, it is can be easy to stall out the plane when flying below 400 km/h IAS. In this case, after entering the flat spin, the quickest method to recover the plane is to increase the wing sweep angle and then counter the plane rotation with the rudder.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,202 || 2,191 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.4 || 25.1 || 178.4 || 170.5 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,245 || 2,221 || 23.6 || 24.0 || 231.6 || 203.8
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="60%"
|-
! rowspan="2" | Limits
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
! Min sweep
| 1,359 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || rowspan="2" | 1,200 || rowspan="2" | 873 || rowspan="2" | 416 || ~10 || ~5
|-
! Max sweep
| 1,555 || ~11 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 1,200 || < 850 || < 1,800 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="7" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="4" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Pratt & Whitney TF30-P-412A || 2
| colspan="3" | 18,545 kg || colspan="4" | 493 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 18m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 62m fuel
|-
| 1,802 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 20,750 kg || 20,905 kg || 22,085 kg || 23,855 kg || 25,895 kg || 30,935 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 18m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 62m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 4,860 kgf || 8,019 kgf
| 0.77 || 0.77 || 0.73 || 0.67 || 0.62 || 0.52
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,808 kgf (1,555 km/h) || 12,692 kgf (1,555 km/h)
| 1.22 || 1.21 || 1.15 || 1.06 || 0.98 || 0.82
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

The F-14A holds 60 countermeasures, which is a decent number of chaff and flares that can let the Tomcat survive multiple missiles. Due to its massive engines, the IR signature of the aircraft is not an easy thing to conceal when fighting heat-seeking missiles. As with other jets around its battle rating, flares alone are generally not enough to defeat IR-guided missiles. To defeat an IR-guided missile (heat-seeker), turn off afterburner and reduce throttle to at least 80-85% while dumping flares and turning away from the missile. This is to ensure that an IR-guided missile will track the flares and not the engines. Due to the massive size compared to other aircraft, the chances of a successful hit from enemies, both missile and cannon, are higher compared to smaller aircraft such as the Harrier or F-5. This should be taken into consideration as proximity fuses will trigger with more ease as the wingspan of the Tomcat is considerably larger than most jets seen in game.

Fuel tanks are housed flatly in both the fuselage and wings. The F-14A will easily catch fire from enemy rounds from above and below the plane. Thankfully, the fuel tanks are well-separated compared to other fighters like the F-4 family, so damage to one part of the plane may not necessarily compromise the whole plane. However, fires will rapidly destroy traction of control surfaces, so they must be immediately extinguished. As long as some control surfaces are usable, the F-14A can survive critical damage (such as losing a wing) and return to base. Its multiple fuel tanks help isolate fuel fires especially on the wings, and the plane can fly on one engine.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! EEGS
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, cheek-mounted (676 rpg)
* 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="5%" | 1 !! width="5%" | 2 !! width="5%" | 3 !! width="5%" | 4 !! width="5%" | 5 !! width="5%" | 6 !! width="5%" | 7 !! width="5%" | 8
| rowspan="16" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| || || || 8* || 6 || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || || || 8* || 6 || || ||
|-
! [[Mk 82 AIR (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 AIR]] bombs
| || || || 8* || 6 || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| || || || 2* || 2 || || ||
|-
! [[Mk 83 AIR (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb Mk 83 AIR]] bombs
| || || || 2* || 2 || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || || || 2*† || 2 || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 Air (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air]] bombs
| || || || 2*† || 2 || || ||
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| || 8 || || || || || 8 ||
|-
! [[AIM-7E-2 Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 2 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 2 || 1, 2* || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9D Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || || || || || 1 || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9G Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || || || || || 1 || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || || || || || 1 || 1
|-
! [[AIM-54A Phoenix]] missiles
| || 1 || || 2* || 2† || || 1 ||
|-
! 280 gal drop tanks
| || || 1 || || || 1 || ||
|-
| colspan="10" | * Use of dual Sparrow missiles on hardpoint 4 prevents use of the marked options on hardpoint 3 † The AIM-54A Phoenix missiles on hardpoint 4 cannot be carried in conjunction with 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs on hardpoint 3
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 2 x 280 gal drop tanks
* 2 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9D Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9G Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 5 x AIM-7E-2 Sparrow missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 6 x AIM-54A Phoenix missiles
* 14 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (3,500 lb total)
* 14 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (7,000 lb total)
* 14 x 500 lb Mk 82 AIR bombs (7,000 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb Mk 83 AIR bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 16 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

The F-14A is the first aircraft in game to have access to Active Radar Homing missiles with internal navigation. While it is mostly used for air defense and anti-air duties, it holds decent ground pounding abilities that are nothing new to American pilots. The F-14A has access to a wide variety of weapon selections due to having 'Custom Loadouts' feature. Depending on the needs of the pilot, one can carry different loadouts for different needs.

The F-14A comes with three options for missiles: short-ranged AIM-9H Sidewinders, medium-ranged AIM-7F Sparrows, and long-range AIM-54A Phoenixes.

The '''AIM-9H Sidewinder''' is very similar to the previous AIM-9G — having good range but below average manoeuvrability. Its seeker can also be slaved to a radar lock or TWS soft lock. With only 18G maximum overload, the AIM-9H should not be used in high-aspect or hard-turning shots at close ranges. Instead, the AIM-9H's good range should be used to catch enemies off guard. A good way to utilize this range is to position yourself over the battlefield and dive down on enemies. Your dive speed combined with gravity will increase the speed and range of your missiles, your angle to the enemy will give the missiles an easier time locking on to their exhaust, and your unexpected direction will see that many enemies will not notice the missile until they have been destroyed by it.

The '''AIM-7F Sparrow''' is a medium-range, SARH (Semi-Active Radar Homing) missile. Pilots of the F-14A are probably familiar with the AIM-7F from the previous F-4J or the premium F-4S. The AIM-7F is one of the best radar-guided missiles in the game, with 25Gs of pull and a very long burn time for the sustainer motor, it has long range and competitive manoeuvrability. (while earlier SARHs such as the AIM-7E-2(DF), Skyflash, R-23R, etc. will stop producing thrust sooner and lose speed during manoeuvres, the AIM-7F maintains its speed and thus manoeuvrability for longer thanks to its sustainer motor.) This should be the F-14A's go-to missile; it can be launched from all aspects and is difficult to dodge without the correct defensive manoeuvres. The AIM-7F can be launched from longer ranges to utilize its long burn time and the F-14A's good radar. Pay attention to your Radar Warning Receiver; if the enemy you are radar locking is also radar locking you, it is likely that they are about to or already have launched a radar-guided missile at you. In this case, do not fly straight; you are going to be hit first. Launch your missile, then crank to one side. To crank means to turn to one side as far as possible without losing radar lock. This makes the enemy's missile travel further at higher angles and thus decreases the chance it will hit you during defensive manoeuvres. If you have Sparrows to spare and an enemy is approaching head-on, you can launch Sparrows in succession (2-3 seconds between launches) to increase your probability of a kill. An enemy can avoid one missile with manoeuvres, but will have bled speed and will have a more difficult time avoiding further missiles.

The '''AIM-54A Phoenix''' is a long-range, ARH (Active Radar Homing) missile, and is only found on the F-14. The AIM-54A is a unique missile with unique capabilities. It has an extremely long burn time and thus an extremely long range, as well as a rather large proximity fuse and a large amount of explosives (doesn't have to be as close as other missiles to enemies to explode and cause critical damage). However, its more interesting features come in the form of its behaviour. First, it's an active radar homing missile, meaning it has a small internal radar which at closer ranges it can use to automatically search for, track and guide itself to targets without any input from the parent (the F-14's) radar. Second, it can be guided via the parent (F-14's) radar, but if it loses lock, the missile will fly straight for a while and use the aforementioned internal radar to search for enemies to home in towards. Third, the AIM-54 does not require a hard lock to be launched; when the F-14's radar is in TWS (Track While Scan) mode, you can simply hover the radar cursor over a radar contact to launch the AIM-54. This also means you can launch more than one Phoenix at a time by hovering over a target, launching, and then hovering over another target to launch another Phoenix.

It is important to know that despite these seemingly impressive features, the AIM-54 is not an all-powerful missile and has its downsides; there are many scenarios where it is advisable not to use it. First, some F-14A players may feel tempted to take six AIM-54s, take off, and then launch at six enemy targets very far away. This is not advised, as there is a very high chance none will hit; at such a long-range, and with player behaviour at the start of a match, it is very likely that the missiles will be inadvertently notched, or the missiles will get distracted by enemy and/or friendly AI bots. In addition, the AIM-54A only has 17G overload — less than an AIM-9H — and with its very long burn time, it is easily seen and dodged by enemies. It is worth saving your missiles for a better firing window. Second, the missile should not be used at closer ranges (< 5 km). In addition to having low manoeuvrability, the AIM-54 has a very, very slow acceleration, and it highly likely won't be able to follow the defensive manoeuvres of such a close enemy. For this case, Sparrows are a much better option. Third, the AIM-54 should not be launched in the direction of friendly aircraft. The AIM-54 and its internal radar will go for the first target it sees, regardless if it is friend or foe. And fourth and finally, the AIM-54 is the heaviest air-to-air missile in the game, and they impact aircraft performance significantly. To make use of the AIM-54's advantages, it is advisable to use them at higher altitudes (> 5 km) and at long ranges. The AIM-54 will have time to accelerate to its maximum speed, and due to the low air density at high altitudes as well as the AIM-54's high speed, enemy aircraft will have a hard time evading the missile (even if it is just 17G). The AIM-54 can home in on enemies on its own, so if necessary you can completely turn away from the enemy after launching to avoid enemy missiles. However, the AIM-54 has datalink and thus is it recommended to keep painting the target(s) through TWS radar mode for more reliable missile tracking.

Each of these missiles has its strengths and weaknesses. A mix between long-range weapons and short-range weapons must be used at the pilot's discretion. A maximum of six of a mix of Sparrows or Phoenixes can be taken, two Sidewinders can always be carried on separate hard points, and pilots can choose to substitute up to two Sparrows or Phoenixes for Sidewinders. At the very least one or two sparrows should be taken as they are useful in lots of different engagements at most altitudes. For high altitude engagements, a small number of Phoenixes (1-3) can be taken. Phoenixes are especially useful at enduring confrontation (operation) air battles, where air combat is prevalent at higher altitudes, where the Phoenix will truly shine. While the AIM-9H Sidewinders will seem like nothing new and perhaps a bit outdated, their long-range capability should not be underestimated, and users may prefer to swap out some radar-guided missiles for the Sidewinders.

== Usage in battles ==

Boasting a high top speed, excellent turning characteristics, a large number of excellent missiles, and a powerful radar, the F-14A Early is a potent air superiority fighter and should be used as such.

'''Flying the F-14A'''

Despite being a very large aircraft, the F-14A Tomcat's manoeuvrability and energy retention are excellent. With the wings swept out, it's among the best rate fighters in the game, and has excellent instantaneous turn rate. This allows the F-14A to out-dogfight most aircraft in-game. For planes with poor energy retention such as F-4s, MiG-21s, J35s, and JA37s, you can use the F-14's excellent turn rate to enter a prolonged two-circle fight, where the F-14's superior energy retention will drain the energy of these delta-winged fighters. The optimal rate speed of the F-14A is around 750 km/h, though 600 km/h will still allow you to out-rate fighters with poor energy retention. For planes with better energy retention such as F-8s and MiG-23s, you can use F-14A's excellent instantaneous turn rate to force a one-circle fight. It should be noted that when dogfighting in the F-14A, it is critical to always sweep your wings forward to 0% wing sweep. At this wing sweep, you will obtain the optimal energy retention and turn characteristics of the F-14A. Therefore, it is highly recommended to set key binds for manually changing the sweep angle and switching between auto to manual wing sweep. Keep in mind that, although the F-14A has excellent dogfighting characteristics, it is still a very large aircraft with extremely hot engines. Due to this, it is advised to avoid turn-fighting in the Tomcat unless absolutely necessary because, as with all other top-tier jets, doing so will bleed your speed and make you an easy target for enemy aircraft.

The early F-14A with its TF30 engines were historically underpowered, and this shows in-game: while the F-14A has a great top speed with the wings swept back, the acceleration and climb rate is below average. Faster planes such as MiG-23s, Mirage 2000s, F-16s, and MiG-29s will easily out-accelerate you. Even F-4s will accelerate faster at lower speeds. Therefore, it is advisable to keep your speed up in the F-14. Due to this, vertical dogfights are generally not advisable, especially with faster accelerating and climbing opponents such as MiG-23s, MiG-29s and F-16s. In addition, this acceleration is another reason to be careful when engaging in dogfights, as you will have difficulty out-accelerating your opponents should you need to exit.

'''Wing Sweep'''

The F-14A has a variable sweep wing, which means the wings can change angle during flight to obtain the desired flight characteristics. As discussed before, when the wings are swept forward (0%), the F-14A obtains high energy retention and excellent instantaneous and sustained turn rate. However, the wings being swept forwards limits the Tomcat's top speed, and therefore should only be used at lower speeds, when dogfighting, or takeoff/landing (especially on carriers). On the other hand, the wings being swept back allows the F-14A to reach its top speed, but at lower speeds, the reduced lift and greater wing loading heavily reduces manoeuvrability. Generally, pilots can keep the wing sweep mode set to automatic (AUTO); this will automatically sweep the wings without player input based on how fast or slow the Tomcat is going. However, when dogfighting, you will want to switch the sweep mode to manual, and use selected key binds to manually sweep the wing completely forward to obtain optimal manoeuvrability.

'''Fuel Consumption and Engine Heat'''

It should be noted that the F-14A burns through its fuel supply extremely fast when on full afterburner. This should be taken into consideration as one can use up all their fuel without realizing until it is too late. Due to this, it is advisable to take at the very least 30 minutes of fuel. You can use the mouse scroll wheel to save a lot more fuel by using the first-stage afterburner, which gives a significant power boost from 100% throttle but a little less power than full afterburner. On minimum fuel (18 minutes) the full afterburner can only last about 2 minutes and 30 seconds, but the afterburner (first-stage) can last you 8 minutes.

Something to be aware of when playing the F-14A is the insane heat of its engines. At high throttle and afterburner, its engines emit an unparalleled amount of heat at around 2,100 °F (1,150 °C). For reference, that is around 66% hotter than the F-4J's engines, which are around 1,239 °F (671 °C) at 100% throttle and 1,256 °F (680 °C) during full afterburner. During gameplay, this means that in the F-14A simply just turning off the afterburner and deploying flares may not be enough to avoid an incoming IR missile. It is also recommended to throttle down the engine significantly (at least 80-85%) to make sure that an incoming IR missile goes for the flares. This is especially true for more flare-resistant IR missiles such as the [[AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9L]] & [[AIM-9M Sidewinder|AIM-9M]], [[Matra R550 Magic 2|Magic 2]], and [[R-73]] which may need substantial throttling down to flare off. Keep in mind that throttling down means that you will lose a decent amount of speed in the process, so be prepared.

'''Radar and Radar Modes'''

The AN/AWG-9 radar set carried by the F-14A is an extremely potent radar, especially for long-range missile combat. It has great range (a maximum of 185 km tracking and 370 km detecting). For most normal air RB maps, a 37 km or 93 km display range should suffice, while 93 km should be enough for most enduring confrontation air RB maps. A radar lock is necessary to guide Sparrows, while either radar lock or soft lock (selecting targets in TWS) will suffice for a Phoenix launch. The radar has four different modes which have different purposes, capabilities and usages:

* '''SRC PD HDN''' (Surveillance Radar Computer, Pulse-Doppler, Head-On): Users of the F-14 are likely at least somewhat aware of what a pulse-Doppler radar is from usage of the previous F-4J. This is a pulse-Doppler mode, meaning it measures an aircraft's Doppler shift (difference in velocity compared to surroundings) in order to "see" targets. Due to the nature of the detection method, this pulse-Doppler mode is most ideal for targets close to the ground, as well as in head-on situations (as the name suggests). However, this pulse-Doppler mode has a weakness: it can be [[Airborne_radars#Notching_a_Pulse-Doppler_radar|notched]]; pulse-Doppler measures the target aircraft's velocity change compared to surroundings, so if a target flies perpendicular to the radar (not moving closer or further compared to the surroundings), the radar will not observe a change in velocity and therefore cannot see the aircraft. F-14A pilots must be aware of how the notch works; if an enemy radar is locking you at low altitude, they are likely using a pulse-Doppler mode, and thus notching becomes a defensive option to break radar lock. Provided the target is not at very low altitudes, an enemy notching your pulse-Doppler radar can be countered by switching the radar mode to SRC. Another weakness to be aware of is that pulse-Doppler modes generally have trouble detecting and locking targets travelling away from the radar. In conclusion, the pulse-Doppler mode is good for tracking targets at very low altitudes, but is vulnerable to notching and has difficulty finding targets moving away.
* '''SRC''' (Surveillance Radar Computer): This is the standard radar mode. It is not a pulse-Doppler mode and does not have its weaknesses; it cannot be notched like pulse-Doppler can, and has an easier time tracking targets moving away. Therefore, if an enemy is attempting to notch your pulse-Doppler mode, you can switch the radar lock from a pulse-Doppler one to standard SRC. However, due to the radar return from ground clutter, it has great trouble locking targets at very low altitude, though it can still lock higher targets. It's worth noting that the SRC mode on the AN/AWG-9 is more resistant to ground clutter than previous radars; while you still cannot detect or lock a target very close to the ground, it can sometimes detect targets as little as 1 km from the ground. In conclusion, SRC is generally more reliable at finding and tracking targets than pulse-Doppler mode, but cannot see targets at very low altitudes like pulse-Doppler can.
* '''TWS HDN''' (Track While Scan, Head-On): This mode allows targets to be detected and "tracked" simultaneously. By hovering your radar cursor over detected targets, you can "soft lock" them; their position is marked in third-person view, and their general speed, heading, and height are displayed. With a soft lock, the radar return is not strong enough to trigger the RWR, so enemies will not know you are soft locking them. AIM-54A Phoenixes can be launched via a soft lock, and after launching a Phoenix, you can hover over another enemy to launch another Phoenix. Using onboard electronics, the Phoenixes will guide themselves to the target after this. In addition, AIM-9G/H Sidewinders can be slaved to the soft lock. However, for a Sparrow launch, you will need to "hard lock" the target. This can be done simply by locking the target the cursor is hovering over (as with other radar modes). In addition, track while scan uses pulse-Doppler, so it can detect targets close to the ground as well. Unfortunately, this also means it has the same weaknesses as pulse-Doppler mode (vulnerable to notching or targets flying away). The capabilities of the track while scan mode are potent and allows pilots great situational awareness, and therefore should generally be your go-to radar mode, only switching to SRC to overcome pulse-Doppler's weaknesses.
* '''SRC PDV HDN''' (Surveillance Radar Computer, Pulse-Doppler Velocity, Head-On): This radar mode is very similar to pulse-Doppler, but instead displays the velocity of the aircraft on the radar screen rather than the range. This is the only radar mode on the AN/AWG-9 which does not utilize IFF (Identification Friend or Foe), so in simulator mode, be careful.
* The AN/AWG-9 has two acquisition modes, ACM PD HDN and ACQ, and two track modes, TRK PD HDN and TRK.
** SRC PD HDN, TWS HDN and SRC PDV HDN radar modes all use '''ACM PD HDN''' (Air Combat Maneuvering, Pulse-Doppler, Head-On) as the acquisition mode, and '''TRK PD HDN''' (Track, Pulse-Doppler, Head-On) as the lock mode. These are pulse-Doppler search and lock methods, and as such have the same strengths and weaknesses. SRC uses '''ACQ''' and '''TRK''' as acquisition and lock modes, respectively, which are the non pulse-Doppler counterparts to ACM PD HDN and TRK PD HDN.
** When in these acquisition modes, you can press your keybind for "Change Radar/IRST Search Mode" to change the scope of the acquisition search area. Clicking it once changes it from a square to a vertically long rectangle, clicking it twice moves this rectangle to an upper position (to lock enemies above you), and clicking it a third time changes it back to a square.
** A nice and very useful feature of the F-14's radar is that, if you have a target radar locked, you can switch between pulse-Doppler and normal SRC tracking without breaking lock (most other radars will require the lock to be broken before switching radar mode to reattempt a lock). This allows you to quickly and easily switch to TRK (SRC) if the target is notching, or switch to TRK PD HDN (Pulse-Doppler) if the target is going close to the ground.

'''Realistic Battles'''

In realistic battles, the F-14A is a powerful air superiority fighter. With a maximum of six medium-range AIM-7F or very long range AIM-54A missiles and a powerful radar, it is among the best BVR (Beyond Visual Range) fighters in the game, and it is advisable to exploit this advantage. In air realistic battles, players can side climb to high altitudes (>5 km) and search for targets to engage with the long-range Sparrows or Phoenixes. Once higher altitude is swept of enemy fighters, pilots can dive down on lower altitude enemies and use the energy advantage to obtain missile kills from an unexpected angle. If necessary, the Tomcat's excellent manoeuvrability can be used to dogfight any remaining enemy aircraft.

In ground realistic battles, the F-14A can use its long-range missiles to clear the sky of enemy strike aircraft. With its excellent Sparrow and Phoenix missiles, the F-14A will be especially potent at destroying enemy strike aircraft at high altitudes who are using guided munitions to attack your team outside of SAM range. While the F-14A gets access to some air-to-ground bombs and rockets, these are all unguided and thus are very risky to use in the presence of SAMs. Therefore, unless a ground strike is absolutely necessary, a Tomcat is much better off in the air-to-air role guarding the skies.

'''Enemies Worth Noting'''

* '''F-16A:''' These planes have excellent acceleration and decent top speed. In addition, they are equipped with AIM-9Ls (& Python 3's for the Israeli Netz), which can be difficult to flare with the F-14's two very hot engines running on full afterburner, as well as AIM-7Ms (except the US F-16A Block 10 and Israeli Netz), that perform similarly to the F-14's AIM-7Fs. One weakness of the F-16 is its angle of attack limiter which effectively bricks the F-16 at high speeds. This means it will have trouble dodging the F-14's AIM-7Fs at higher speeds. In a dogfight, the F-16 outturns the F-14 with it's excellent maneuverability, but the angle of attack limiter can be exploited in a merge with an F-16, where air braking, down-throttling and pulling hard into the F-16 may let you park yourself on his tail. The F-16's excellent acceleration in contrast with the F-14's poor acceleration makes it ill-advised to engage in a vertical dogfight with the F-16. It is generally best to avoid dogfighting the F-16, but if needed, a rate fight is favoured by the F-14,
* '''MiG-29''': The MiG-29 has excellent acceleration and top speed. Though the R-60M on the [[MiG-29|9.13]] is a far cry from the F-16's AIM-9Ls, future variants carry the supermanouevring, IRCCM equipped [[R-73]], and all MiG-29s posses the extremely dangerous R-27ER long range SARH missile. These missiles are faster accelerating and more manoeuvrable than the F-14's AIM-7Fs while having the same listed maximum range of 100 km. However, the MiG-29 can only carry two of them. They can be outranged by your AIM-54s, but at closer ranges, even a single missile can mean death for you, so you will have to use missile jousting strategies to beat the R-27ER with your AIM-7Fs. In a dogfight, it's mostly the same story as with the F-16: the MiG-29 has excellent maneuverability, and while the F-14 can certainly keep up, vertical dogfights should be avoided due to the stark difference in acceleration between the MiG-29 and F-14A. The best way to dogfight the MiG-29 in the F-14 is to utilize the F-14's excellent turn rate in a rate fight; staying at around 750 km/h will let the F-14 slowly out-rate the MiG-29.
* '''Mirage 2000C:''' Mirage 2000s have excellent acceleration and top speed, as well as powerful missiles. Like AIM-9Ls, the Magic 2 can be difficult to flare, and the Super 530D is comparable to the AIM-7F, but it should be noted that the Mirage 2000C only has two of each of these missiles. In a dogfight, the Mirage 2000 has excellent instantaneous turn rate, but due to its delta wing design bleeds speed quickly; in this case the F-14A's excellent rate speed should be used to drain the Mirage 2000 of energy and outrate it.
* '''F-4J, F-4S, F-4EJ Kai, Kurnass 2000:''' These Phantoms can very easily be beaten in a dogfight by the F-14A, but beware that they can also use the AIM-7F (except the Kurnass 2000), and in the case of the EJ Kai and Kurnass 2000, they have significantly upgraded radars, can use the AIM-9L, and for the Kurnass 2000 specifically, the even deadlier Python 3.
* '''MiG-23ML/MLA/MLD:''' These MiG-23s boast good R-24s which can compete with the AIM-7F, as well as dangerous R-24Ts which can lock on to the F-14's hot heat signature and stealthily destroy it. Good situational awareness is key to defeating these missiles. On curves that follow the same direction indefinitely, be careful. When it comes to high-speed turns, the F-14A has the advantage. However, when it comes to continuous curves at low speed, without changing direction, the Mig 23 (especially the MLD) has an advantage. In a dogfight, MiG-23s have a surprisingly good rate speed which can keep up with the F-14. However, their instantaneous turn rate is poor, so a one circle or scissors can be used with the F-14A to easily gain an advantage over MiG-23s.
* '''F-5E:''' The F-5 series have a surprisingly good turn rate that can rival even the F-14A. However, it has slow acceleration, its guns are mediocre, and it only has short-range infrared missiles. Therefore, they can be engaged with Sparrows and Phoenixes without retaliation, and in a dogfight, the vertical can be used on the F-5 to stall them out and gain the advantage. Beware however that the squadron premium [[F-5E FCU (Japan)|F-5E FCU]] can enter battle with two different all-aspect infrareds at the same time. Two [[AIM-9P4 Sidewinder|AIM-9P4]]<nowiki/>s, and two Python 3s. Though the AIM-9P4 isn't as much of a threat as an AIM-9L due to only being able to pull 20G like a regular AIM-9P, it carries the AIM-9L's seeker, meaning it's just as difficult to flare off in rear aspect.

'''Simulator Battles - Enduring Confrontation'''

Before you take the F-14A to battle you need to figure out what weapons you want to use. All the available IR missiles have almost identical turn performance, the range is almost the same too. The D version cannot be slaved to the locked target, the G can be and the H works exactly like the G, but has a higher tracking rate. Taking at least two of them is highly recommended since they almost do not affect the flight performance.

There are also two options for radar-guided missiles. The AIM-7F works very well at close and medium ranges (3-20 km) and can hit a target which is pulling lots of G. They are harder to dodge in Simulator Battles, though you need to keep your lock all the time. The AIM-54A is an active radar-guided missile, it does not require the radar lock when it is launched 16 km from the target (or when it gets that close, then you can break your lock), but it can pull only up to 17G which is quite easy to dodge, both these missiles can also be avoided by just simply notching when the F-14 uses the pulse-Doppler radar mode.

Loadout recommendations:

* 4x AIM-9H + 4x AIM-7F - Works very well in almost any scenario, and does not affect the flight performance that much.
* 4x AIM-9H + 2x AIM-54A + 2x AIM-7F - A well-balanced loadout, allows for a variety of gameplay styles.

To make full use of the F-14A's manoeuvrability it is best to buy the expert crew and the ace crew if it is possible, since the plane pulls around 8G at 750 km/h IAS in a sustained turn and that increases even further when the player decided to pull it even more, though you need to keep in mind that the G limit is ~11G.

'''Outside of combat''' - As a start, keep in mind that the F-14A really likes to burn through its fuel reserves when the afterburner is used, (at low altitudes it can only fly up to 7 minutes with max fuel) so it is recommended to fly either with 45 minutes of fuel (on 64x64 km maps like Ruhr, Port Moresby) or full fuel tanks (128x128 km maps like Vietnam, Denmark). WEP should not be used while cruising and only during combat or while chasing someone, flying with the throttle set to 85-90% should be fine too. There are a few tactics that can be used in the F-14 in SB, but it mostly depends on what map you play. On more open maps like Denmark you can at 1,000-3,000 m alt while looking for targets, though some planes can still sneak up to you if you are not paying enough attention to your surroundings, doing so you are mostly vulnerable to attack from below and behind, especially when the enemy has access to all-aspect missiles. The other tactic is just simply hugging the ground, in most cases it is the safest one and should be used on maps with hills and mountains where you can break the enemy's line of sight by flying between them. It is more difficult and requires lots of focus. The player needs to keep looking around all the time to find the target, the radar is less useful in this scenario, though the TWS mode can be helpful on maps like Vietnam to check the enemy plane direction and ambush them while you are flying in areas where it is hard to spot the planes due to the ground colour and many objects like trees. To make cruising easier the damping SAS mode can be used, which limits the angle of attack (AoA) so much that the G limit cannot be reached at any speed, the automatic wing sweep control also can be activated. About the radar modes, the PDV should not really be used since it is the only one which does not have any kind of IFF and it is as good at detecting targets as the normal PD mode. Since the PD radar cannot track targets that are flying perpendicular to your plane switching between modes is very important, even the normal Pulse (SRC) mode can detect targets against the ground up to 15-20 km and even further when it is above the horizon. To be safe from enemy missiles it is best to stay around 20-30 km away from enemy planes.

'''During combat''' - When both sides have similar missiles in BVR combat, it is critical to accelerate to high speed before launching your missile and to launch the missile before the enemy. The AIM-54A can be useful in such scenarios, even when the F-14 will be forced to break away the missile will still be tracking the target, then the enemy will be forced to dodge it and when that happens you can launch another missile to force the enemy into an even more defensive position. When the distance between planes is around 10 km, the radar mode should be switched to either BST or VSL since they offer an instant radar lock after pointing at the targets, locking on manually can sometimes take a few seconds and a few failed attempts. Those two modes can also be used when the player in the F-14A is trying to be sneaky, then when the enemy is not aware of being tracked by TWS mode on maps like Vietnam the F-14 can switch to them when the enemy gets close from the front and then right after that launch the AIM-7F. Overall learning quick switching between radar modes depending on the situation is very important.

Within a visual range of 10 km, players are strongly advised to employ a proactive defensive strategy to enhance their chances of survival during head-on encounters. To achieve this, it is recommended to pre-flare while maintaining heightened situational awareness and anticipating potential threats from any direction. In a scenario where you may have to engage the enemy, it is best to use the AIM-7F missiles. By launching them, the adversary will be forced to notch and will not be able to safely reengage, as at that point you hold a significant advantage.

During a dogfight, it is recommended to switch the SAS mode to manual. The damping limits the manoeuvrability too much and can put the F-14 in a worse position, especially against delta wing planes, though using it makes the plane harder to control. The other thing to remember is switching the wing sweep controls to manual, then reducing it to 0% for the best manoeuvrability.
The last thing is using the combat flaps, but overusing them and doing it in the wrong situation can lead to being shot down faster. Before the merge between both planes happens the speed should be around 800 km/h IAS and 900 km/h (450-500 kn IAS), it will make starting a two-circle fight (where the F-14 excels) easier. The combat flaps in the F-14 improve both the sustained and instantaneous turn rate, the only downside is that they work effectively only up to 900 km/h IAS and make reaching speed above that harder. The one-circle fight can be done only with planes like the MiG-23, Su-17/22 or the Japanese Phantoms; against other planes, especially the delta wing planes, it is not very safe, although the F-14 can sometimes pull a very tight turn (takeoff flaps have a speed limit up to 800 km/h and can help with that). Generally, the safest way to win the fight is to keep your speed around 800 km/h IAS in a two-circle fight, there is not a single plane that can win it. There are a few planes which can give a hard time in close-range fights, the MiG-23MLD, J35s, MiG-21bis, J-7E, Chinese F-5E, the player should be very careful while engaging any of these.

'''Basic mistakes''' - Ignoring the IFF and teamkilling are the biggest mistakes happening in SB, it is always important to check if the target is a friendly plane or not (one line - unknown/enemy, two lines - friendly). Also, launching the AIM-54 into a direction with a few friendly planes can end really badly, just like launching any kind of missile into furballs. Ignoring the IFF readouts will lead to being kicked from the session and the team performing worse because they will also need to worry about dodging friendly missiles.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Very effective two-circle fighter at any speed with its variable wing sweep which gives it great energy retention
* Variable sweep wings can help to accelerate faster when fully swept back, and turn more tightly when fully unswept forwards
* Elevators behave like ailerons, maintaining a high roll rate at all speeds
* High structural limit (can max out at 1500 km/h IAS at sea level before disintegrating)
* The M61 Vulcan cannon has an extremely fast fire rate, good velocity, and deals great damage
* Can carry up to 8 missiles maximum, with options of AIM-7s, AIM-9s, and [[AIM-54A Phoenix|AIM-54]]<nowiki/>s for versatile use
* The AIM-54 has insane range (100 km max), its rocket booster lasts for a very long time, and it's an active radar homing missile (at closer ranges, it can automatically guide itself towards enemies using its own radar)
* Multi-mode radar makes it effective in any situation (the TWS mode allows launching AIM-54s at multiple aircraft at once and provides amazing situational awareness)
* Same RWR as F-4J and F-4S:
** Has launch detection
** Covers frequency bands E-J
** Detects a wide variety of targets:
*** AI LO, AI HI, AAA/AI
*** SAM LO, SAM MID, SAM HI
* The [[AIM-9H Sidewinder|AIM-9H]] has much better flare resistance than previous AIM-9s (such as the [[AIM-9G Sidewinder|G]] or [[AIM-9J Sidewinder|J]] variants)

'''Cons:'''

* Easy target to hit due to its sheer size
* The afterburner's fuel consumption is extremely high; constant usage of it requires carrying a lot of fuel that can hamper the plane's performance and manoeuvrability earlier in the match
* Massive wing and fuselage fuel tanks, of which the majority are non-self sealing makes it especially prone to catching fire
* Cannot pull sustained Gs when above 1,000 km/h IAS (11-13 G) in RB or the wings will rip
* The TF30 is one of, if not the hottest running engine in-game, requiring the need to throttle down (and massively lose speed and energy retention) to reliably flare off infrared missiles
* 60 countermeasures may be a bit lacking considering the extremely high engine temperature
* The AIM-54A only has 17G overload and is sluggish due to high weight, and thus is rather easy to dodge
* The AIM-54A's rocket motor burns for a very long time, giving enemies plenty of time to spot it early and evade
* Requires lots of work and control binds related to the radar and variable wing sweep angle to make the most of the aircraft
* The Damping SAS mode limits the AoA so much that it performs abysmally in one-circle fights (scissors, split-S, etc.) thus forcing the player to use the much more difficult Manual SAS mode (SB with full-real controls)
* RWR:
** Lacks IFF
** Lacks tracking detection
** Cannot show target name
** A significant number of targets are shown as "?"

== History ==

=== Early Development ===
In 1967, the U.S. Navy wanted a long-range fleet defence fighter to boost their naval plane capabilities with the "VFX" program. The USN first started with a redesigned F-111 Aardvark named the F-111B (basically an F-111 designed around the TF30 engine and AIM-54 Phoenix missiles), they soon found out that the F-111 was too big for practical reasons so the F-111B plan never came to fruition. Fast forward to 1969, the USN gave the contract to Grumman to build the new fleet defence fighter named the F-14 Tomcat (Grumman Model G-303), its first variants were built around the TF30 engines found on the F-111B and to use the AN/AWG-9 radar set and the airframe was specifically built to carry the AIM-54 Phoenix missile.
=== Deployment ===
In December 1970, a significant milestone in aviation history was achieved when the F-14 Tomcat, a supersonic twin-engine fleet defense fighter, made its maiden flight. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey for the F-14 Tomcat, which would go on to become one of the most iconic fighter aircraft in the United States Navy. The successful maiden flight of the F-14 Tomcat in December 1970 paved the way for its subsequent development and delivery to the United States Navy. Just eighteen months later, in June 1972, the Navy received its first batch of F-14 aircraft, signaling the official introduction of this advanced fighter into service. However, it wasn't until 1974 that the culmination of tireless efforts and unwavering dedication became a reality. The Navy achieved operational deployment of the F-14 Tomcat, representing a major milestone for this cutting-edge aircraft. Two carrier squadrons played a pivotal role in this achievement: VF-1 "Wolfpack" and VFA-2 "Bounty Hunters"
=== In service ===
The illustrious legacy of the F-14 Tomcat can be traced back to its inception during the Vietnam War. It was during this turbulent period that carrier squadrons of the United States Navy were deployed to help evacuate Saigon as part of Operation Frequent Wind. In the midst of this critical operation, the F-14 emerged as an awe-inspiring symbol of unmatched aerial power and groundbreaking technological innovation. The F-14 Tomcat, throughout its service life, consistently demonstrated its exceptional capabilities in diverse theaters of operation. From the skies over Vietnam to the Persian Gulf and beyond, the F-14 played a pivotal role in safeguarding American interests and ensuring the security of its allies. During conflicts such as Operation Desert Storm, the F-14 Tomcat showcased its remarkable versatility and combat effectiveness. With its state-of-the-art weapons systems and advanced avionics, the jet provided unparalleled air superiority and contributed significantly to the success of the coalition forces. Moreover, the F-14's impressive presence was felt during the Gulf of Sidra incidents, where it boldly defended American naval forces against hostile encounters. Its manoeuvrability, formidable arsenal, and avionics, served as a powerful deterrent, firmly establishing the F-14's reputation as a force to be reckoned with.

=== Retirement ===
[[File:F-14 Final Catapult.jpg|thumb|300px|right|Final catapult of the F-14]]
The F-14 Tomcat, although iconic, was officially retired from active service in 2006, marking the end of an era for this formidable war machine. Proudly serving the United States Navy for over three decades, the F-14 Tomcat succumbed to evolving technological advancements and changing strategic needs. Factors such as soaring maintenance costs and the introduction of the more advanced F/A-18E/F Super Hornet propelled the decision to retire this legendary aircraft. However, even in its final missions, the F-14 Tomcat showcased the indomitable spirit that defined its existence. The momentous culmination of its operational flights bore witness to VFA-311, the last squadron to drop a bomb in battle, and VF-213, the vessel that became its final resting place. These significant events forever imprinted upon the tapestry of military aviation, solidifying the illustrious history of the F-14 Tomcat.

===[[wt:en/news/7705-development-f-14a-tomcat-into-the-danger-zone-en|Devblog]]===
In 1968, five aircraft building companies entered the Pentagon's competition for a new carrier-based interceptor fighter. The commission's preference was given to Grumman's design, a twin-engine jet fighter with a variable-swept wing. Work on the F-14A fighter began in February 1969, and in December of the next year, the new aircraft took her maiden flight. The main weapon of the F-14A was the AIM-54 Phoenix long-range missiles controlled by the newest to date weapon control system. Instead of building prototypes, Grumman immediately switched to the production of an experimental series, and already on December 31, 1972, the first batch of jet fighters were put into service with the VF-124 Fleet Replacement Squadron . Pilot training took place on the deck of the USS Enterprise aircraft carrier, and during the withdrawal of US troops from Vietnam, combat sorties were also made from the deck. In total 557 F-14A fighters were delivered to the US Navy until 1987, and another 80 aircraft were built for Iran. Tomcats were used in all military conflicts where US aircraft took part until the very decommissioning. Iranian F-14s took an active part in the Iran-Iraq war, scoring dozens of air kills.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f_14a_early Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" heights="150">
File:F-14A Early Wallpaper 1.jpg|
File:F-14A Early Wallpaper 2.jpg|
File:F-14A Early Wallpaper 3.jpg|
File:F-14A Early Wallpaper 4.jpg|
File:F-14A Early Wallpaper 5.jpg|
File:F-14A Early Wallpaper 6.jpg|
File:F-14A Early Wallpaper 7.jpg|
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|Wdnef_6_6oM|'''The Shooting Range #307''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:26 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}

== See also ==


;Other jet planes with variable sweep wings

* [[MiG-23 (Family)]]
* [[Su-17/22 (Family)]]
* [[Tornado (Family)]]
* [[F-111A]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7705-development-f-14a-tomcat-into-the-danger-zone-en|[Devblog] F-14A Tomcat: Into the Danger Zone!]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/557191-f-14a-early/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Grumman}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2024-04-04T05:58:59Z

U84733411: Remembered that the F-4S deploys two countermeasures at once, reworded the sentence about its countermeasure supply accordingly.

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The F-4 Phantom II served its most notable service period in the Vietnam War for both the US Air Force (USAF) and US Navy (USN). The USN had the [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] as their latest aircraft, and it began to show its age in the post Vietnam War period. A modernization program began to keep the F-4J up to date with latest upgrades. Improvements were done in avionics, weapon systems, airframe, and undercarriage, but the two most notable improvements were wing leading-edge slats, for improved manoeuvrability, and new smokeless engines. The F-4S flew for USN up until the Phantom's retirement in the late 1980s, replaced by more modern aircraft like the [[F-14A Early|F-14 Tomcat]] and the F-18 Hornet.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], is one of the top versions of the F-4 Phantom II in the game. While the overall play style is not very different from the F-4J, the performance improvements in manoeuvrability should allow the F-4S to occasionally get the upper hand over even more modern fighter designs that it can encounter. Outside the dogfighting range, the usual complement of BVR weaponry like the Sparrows alongside the PD radar should allow the F-4S to shoot down careless enemy fighters who can't evade in time.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10B || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armour plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilot and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take a few hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain airborne. Higher calibre guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. As with the F-4J, the RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) in the back of the cockpit cannot take control of the aircraft if the pilot is knocked out, as it lacks the dual controls found on the USAF variants of the Phantom (C & E.)

The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20 mm in calibre. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection and rear of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. There are additional fuel tanks located in the upper-front of the wings and in the bottom of the fuselage, but they are a much smaller and thinner target, so the chances that they get hit are much lower in comparison. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use that are deployed in pairs of two, effectively halving your actual number of deployments to just 30, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to many of its opponents and even other Phantom variants, and bringing chaff with the mixed setup halves your actual deployment number again to just a measly 15, meaning you'll have to be very aware of your countermeasure usage.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20 mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase manoeuvrability below ~970-1000 km/h SPD by allowing you to pull more AoA (Angle of Attack) which helps to tighten down your turning circle, but results in noticeably more energy bleed. Inversely, the slats will reduce the amount of AoA you can pull above the priorly-mentioned airspeed, which massively improves energy retention and delays pilot blackouts at the cost of an overall wider turn circle. This ability to control your AoA at various speeds can be an invaluable tool in winning engagements if properly mastered, but remember that you're still a Phantom; the F-4S can't turn tight enough to competitively dogfight most other top-tier aircraft even with the manoeuvrability upgrade, but it's good enough that you may be able to last in an extended engagement against a single opponent until an ally comes to your aid. 

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges. The AIM-7F is able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3 km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30 km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3 km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29 9.13, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 9.13 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both are able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you and your team's survival. The Yak-141 however, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has much more exploitable performance flaws; it can barely break the sound barrier due to high airframe drag, and bleeds energy severely in turns. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1v1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded manoeuvrability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their manoeuvres out of desperation.

The MiG-29SMT, while featuring more advanced avionics and the deadly R-73 infared missile at close range, along with the R-27ER for mid and long range, has far worse manoeuvreability than the 9.13 and is moderately heavier, making it much less dominant in a dogfight and unable to extend out of an engagement as easily. Avoiding detection from this aircraft as you approach the frontline is evermore paramount as you're now at an extremely large BVR disadvantage, but you'll find that it's relatively much easier to lead your shots on the SMT than many of the other 4th gen fighters if you manage to close the distance.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a rocket CCIP, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their firing range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
* One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
* Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance
* Slats provide valuable ability to control AoA and energy retention, increasing adaptability in aerial combat.

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Fires will very rapidly destroy the airframe, and effectiveness of the extinguishers is questionable
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|m-dyqOq5Xlo|'''F-4S Beginner's Tutorial in 10 Minutes''' - ''Jaek_''|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-5E

2024-04-04T05:41:02Z

U84733411: I've actually been able to tank a single infrared missile in multiple matches while in the F-5E and remain in a controllable state. Also, added details about the F-5E's countermeasures, & restructured some sentences slightly.

{{About
| about = American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = F-5 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-5e
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Red Skies"]].

The F-5 series is known to be small, lightweight, and nimble. The F-5E Tiger II, made famous by its use as a US Navy aggressor aircraft, improves on the earlier [[F-5A]] and [[F-5C]] with more powerful engines and a revised airframe, increasing its top speed, acceleration, and climb rate. It also has access to deadly AIM-9J missiles, similar to the [[F-5A (China)|ROCAF F-5A]]. In air-to-air combat, the F-5E still suffers from a subpar top speed and limited armament compared to other top-tier Rank VII fighters, but it remains an excellent dogfighter that can cover the weaknesses of heavier US jets like the [[F-4E]] and [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] Phantoms. In the ground attack role, the F-5E packs a deceptively big punch: few would expect such a small fighter to have AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles and a 30 mm gun pod, among many other options.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 11,582 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 1,756 || 1,746 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.2 || 27.2 || 129.9 || 115.5 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 1,822 || 1,777 || 25.8 || 26.0 || 171.6 || 149.1
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,018 || 470 || 463 || ~11 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 680 || < 750 || < 700 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J85-GE-21A || 2
| colspan="2" | 4,825 kg || colspan="3" | 395 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 38m fuel
|-
| 303 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 5,423 kg || 5,861 kg || 6,379 kg || 6,820 kg || 11,000 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 38m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 1,480 kgf || 2,220 kgf
| 0.82 || 0.76 || 0.70 || 0.65 || 0.40
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 1,575 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 3,011 kgf (1,458 km/h)
| 1.11 || 1.03 || 0.94 || 0.88 || 0.55
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

The F-5E is a light fighter, so as such it lacks any kind armour. If it loses its wing or tail it becomes incredibly difficult to fly. Surprisingly though, it can take a significant amount of punishment for its size. It can often survive a few hits from 20 & 23mm cannons, and in the right circumstances, even tank a single infrared missile, though in the latter case it will likely still leave you critically damaged, such as being down an engine and / or missing one or multiple control surfaces. Despite the razorback-like hump of the fuselage being loaded with fuel tanks, fires are uncommon unless a direct hit to one of the engines occurs.

Flaring off incoming infrared missiles is very easy with the F-5E due to the low operating temperature of the engines even at full WEP to the point it's unnecessary, and maybe even wasteful to use the ''Flares Reinforced'' or ''Flare Priority'' setup for the countermeasures. While the E model only carries 45 countermeasures compared to the 60 on the A & C, they deploy one at a time and straight down, instead of deploying two at a time and completely rearwards, meaning your effective total is greater than the earlier F-5s, as well as being better at guiding infrareds away from you, ''except'' at ultra-low altitudes where the countermeasures may hit the ground.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M39A3 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 2 x 20 mm M39A3 cannons, nose-mounted (280 rpg = 560 total)
* 45 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
| rowspan="13" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-5E_(China).png]]</div>
|-
! [[GAU-13/A (30 mm)|30 mm GAU-13/A]] cannons (353 rpg)
| || || || 1 || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || || || 1 || || ||
|-
! [[BLU-1 incendiary]] bombs
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| || 19 || 19 || || 19 || 19 ||
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| || 4 || || || || 4 ||
|-
! [[AGM-65B]] missiles
| || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9E Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9J Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* Without load
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
* 2 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles
* 5 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (3,750 lb total)
* 5 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,500 lb total)
* 5 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (2,500 lb total)
* 3 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (3,000 lb total)
* 1 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bomb (2,000 lb total)
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 4 x AGM-65B missiles
* 1 x 30 mm GAU-13/A cannon (353 rpg)
* 5 x BLU-1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

The F-5E is one of the most manoeuvrable fighters at its rank. The F-5E is a very prevalent gun fighter due to its conservation of energy and turn radius but has weaker guns compared to the M61 Vulcan found on other American jets.

Before taking off, consider selecting a lighter fuel load to increase the {{PAGENAME}}'s speed and lower the turn radius, but using the afterburner will eat through the fuel due to its high inefficiency. Another suggestion is to disable the {{PAGENAME}}'s radar as the {{PAGENAME}} has no radar-guided missiles, so the radar isn't necessary in combat and may harm the {{PAGENAME}}'s combat performance due to it tripping enemy {{Annotation|RWR|Radar Warning Receiver}}. After taking off, climbing too high will make the {{PAGENAME}} an easy target for enemy missiles, and without any ground to notch with or mask with it can be difficult to dodge a radar-guided missile. Staying below 10,000 feet (~3,000 metres) and going off towards the side of the battle at the start will let the {{PAGENAME}} work from the inside out, maximizing its survivability.

After the battle starts, {{PAGENAME}} pilots will want to abuse its energy conservation and turn radius to pick off threats in one vs. one fights. The {{PAGENAME}}'s primary targets should be MiG-23, F-4J, and other F-5Es as they pose a large threat to the {{PAGENAME}}'s team. In a fight, constantly check behind the {{PAGENAME}} to defend against missiles. Maintain a relatively high speed, around 550-700 mph (~880-1,100 km/h) for the best turning. Whenever the {{PAGENAME}}'s plane is low on speed, disengage and try to regain that speed.

If an enemy jet follows the {{PAGENAME}}, be prepared to defend against a missile and reverse a turn, as long as the {{PAGENAME}} has speed and is in close range to an enemy jet, the {{PAGENAME}} will be able to win a dogfight against almost anything. The {{PAGENAME}} has the advantage against most jets in a turn-radius fight except against the MiG-21, Kfir, and JA37 Viggen. These enemy jets have very similar performance, but bleeds speed much easier, so a {{PAGENAME}} pilots can try to force them to lose their speed by maintaining a turn rate fight, where the {{PAGENAME}} will hold the advantage and force them to lose their speed. When using the plane's missiles, the AIM-9J has solid flare resistance, but will be defeated most of the time by an observant enemy. Pilots should only use missiles when an opponent lacks the speed to evade the threat, or against an enemy who is distracted by a friendly. The F-5E is a huge threat in battle, and can survive against lots of enemies at once, but without teammates the F-5E becomes an easy target. If there are teammates in the area, a {{PAGENAME}} pilots can draw enemies into a tunnel vision onto the {{PAGENAME}}, which will allow allies to pick the enemies off with ease if the {{PAGENAME}} baits the enemy into a low speed turn or inside loop.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great manoeuvrability
* Amazing energy retention above .90 Mach
* Large selection of air-to-ground armaments, including Maverick air-to-ground missiles
* Generous ammunition capacity for guns
* Small target
* Improved engines over its predecessor, improving its speed and manoeuvrability
* Efficient afterburner allows the use of lower fuel reserves, improving performance
* EEGS (Enhanced Envelope Gun Sight) allows for more accurate shots
* Modern RWR with IFF + track, launch and threat type detection

'''Cons:'''

* Even though it has improved engines over the F-5C, it still has a low top speed compared to the competition
* M39A3 cannons don't deal as much damage as cannons like the M61 Vulcan, or the Soviet GSh-23L
* No BVR capabilities
* Radar lacks IFF and different search angle modes
* Can only carry a maximum of two air-to-air missiles, making this plane mostly a gun fighter
* No ballistic computer

== History ==

In the late 1960s, Northrop realized that by using an improved version of the General Electric J85 engine with more maximum thrust, the flight performance of the N-156 fighter (F-5 Freedom Fighter) could be improved a lot. During the test, the new J85-GE-21 engine was approved that it could produce almost 23% more thrust than the earlier J85-GE-13 engine used by early produced F-5A/B Freedom Fighter, F-5C Skoshi Tiger and T-38 Talon, which was 5,000 pounds maximum thrust in afterburner mode and 3,500 pounds thrust in military mode.
[[File:1200px-Northrop F-5E (Tail No. 11417) 061006-F-1234S-067.jpg|thumb|332x332px|Official roll-out of first USAF F-5E Tiger II]]
As a result, the sixth production F-5B trainer was chosen to be modified with two new J85-GE-21 engines at Edwards AFB during the summer of 1969, and this upgraded Freedom Fighter with J85-GE-21 engines was called F-5-21 at that time. Overall, the new J85-GE-21 engine's weight was 100 lbs less than J85-GE-13 engine, the length of J85-GE-21 engine was 7 inches longer than J85-GE-13 engine, and an additional stage was added to the front of the J85-GE-13's previous eight-stage compressor to provide extra power, though the single rotor structure was retained, apart from that, two auxiliary intake doors were added to the fuselage above the wing trailing edge (one on each side of fuselage) to provide additional air to the engines for added thrust during take-off and low-speed flight. In Autumn of 1969, USAF decided to hold a new competition to select a new international fighter for Allied countries, and Northrop's F-5-21 program was announced the winner of new international fighter on 20th November 1970. Northrop received the contract from USAF for the further development of F-5E fighter on 8th December 1970. In January 1971, USAF changed the new F-5 fighter's designation from F-5-21 to F-5E, and the latter was named Tiger II in memory of the previous Skoshi Tiger Combat Evaluation program in Vietnam.

As for the airborne avionics system, a Central Air Data Computer was introduced on the new F-5E Tiger II, it could convert raw air data inputs into computed output, and transmit the results to other airborne electrical equipment such as Lead Computing Optical Sight System (LCOSS) and Stability Augmenter System. The new AN/ASG-29 LCOSS replaced the analogue fixed optical sight used by F-5A Freedom Fighter and F-5C Skoshi Tiger, which consisted a gyro lead computer (GLC) unit and an optical display unit (ODU), also an AIM-9 Sidewinder missile select switch was provided to select the appropriate missile launch envelope program stored in the GLC, and the ODU contained sight controls, a mirror drive assembly, and a combing glass which reflected the aiming reticle. Late production F-5Es changed the original AN/ASG-29 LCOSS to the new AN/ASG-31 LCOSS. The most important equipment of the F-5E was the new AN/APQ-153 multi-mode, forward-looking, X-band pulse, Search and Fire Control Radar, which could provide air-to-air search, range, and track information for use in Air-to-Air gunnery and missile launch, it formed the F-5E fighter's Fire Control System together with LCOSS unit, also the late production version of F-5E used AN/APQ-159 (V) 3 search and fire control radar instead of the previous AN/APQ-153 radar.

As for the aerodynamic design, in order to increase the manoeuvrability of F-5E, Northrop decided to increase the total area of Leading Edge Extensions (LEX) sections which were 2.75 times as large as that on the F-5A Freedom Fighter, also the wing area was more than 9% greater than that of F-5A Freedom Fighter, this improvement helped to increase lift and CL max (Coefficient of Lift) in high angle attack situations, also it could improve take-off and landing performance of F-5E too. The CL max of F-5E was increased to 1.4 compared with slightly lower than 1.2 for the F-5A Freedom Fighter, and the maximum lift-drag ratio at subsonic cruise speed was 10.

Thanks to the increased maximum power of new engine, the maximum level flight speed of F-5E was increased from Mach 1.4 to Mach 1.6, the maximum climb rate at sea level was also increased to more than 189 m/s, the empty weight was increased from 3,600 kg to 4,300 kg, and the maximum take off weight was increased to 9,800 kg, also the maximum internal fuel capability of F-5E was increased from 3,790 pounds to 4,536 pounds.

On 10th August 1972, the first F-5E completed its first flight at Edwards AFB. By March 1973, six F-5Es comprised the test force. One interesting fact was that during these flight tests at Edwards AFB, at least one F-5E fighter was painted with Imperial Iranian Air Force (IIAF) desert camouflage because at that time Iranian government was still willing to buy American military equipment. The Saudi Arabian Air Force decided to buy several F-5E and F-5F in 1976, which the program was named Peace Hawk IV, as the Saudi Arabian Air Force wanted to add the AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missile firing ability and Radar Warning Receiver equipment on their F-5 fighters, F-5E 71-1418 was chosen to conduct the test flights with AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles, also F-5E 75-00462 was chosen to test the new Chaff/Flare dispenser and AGM-65 Maverick air-to-ground missiles too. Except for Saudi Arabia and Iran, many other third-world countries such as Brazil, Kenya, and Malaysia became the customer of F-5 fighters, and the total number of countries and regions who received F-5Es was 37. Though the Imperial Iranian Air Force (IIAF) was changed to Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF) as a result of the coup in 1979, but during the Iran-Iraq war in 1980s, many former Imperial Iranian Air Force pilots who were trained by the US decided to join the battle against Iraq with the name of Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force after they were released by the government, even one time a F-5E of IRIAF successfully shot down a MiG-25 Foxbat interceptor of Iraq Air Force, the total air-to-air kills made by F-5 fighters of IRIAF was 23.

By late November 1986, the F-5E/F production line in California was finally shut down after it completed the last seven aircraft on the contract. Northrop built 2,603 F-5 fighters in total including 1,399 E and F models (793 F-5E and 146 F-5F according to some sources). The first unit of USAF equipped with F-5Es was the 425th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron (TFTS) at Williams AFB, which was responsible for the majority of the training of customer nation air and ground crew, they used F-5Es until June 1989, 1,499 students around the world were graduated from the 425th Tactical Fighter Training Squadron (TFTS). Apart from that, Imperial Iranian Air Force started to receive their F-5Es in 1974, but as the war situation of South Vietnam became worse, American decided to divert 18 F-5Es from the later Iranian order to support the Republic of Vietnam Air Force.

As a result, a total of 55 F-5Es were transported by the USA to South Vietnam before they lost the war on 30th April 1975. Except for battle damage and loss, about 27 F-5E fighters and 60-87 F-5A/B fighters that hadn't escaped to Thailand were captured by the North Vietnamese army after the defeat of South Vietnam. Through Vietnamese government decided to retain a small number of F-5 fighters and used them during the invasion of Cambodia, and they also sent some of the F-5 fighters to the Soviet Union. At first, the Soviet aircraft engineers didn't show much interest in the F-5Es because of the low thrust of the J85 engine, and they still believed that their fighters were much better than Western products. According to the estimation report of F-5E written by the Soviet engineers, they even thought that F-5E's level acceleration performance was only as slow as a piston fighter, also the estimated rate of climb at sea level was only 160 m/s. As a comparison, the true rate of climb of F-5A Freedom Fighter was 189 m/s.

Therefore, they thought that using the latest MiG-23 fighters against F-5E fighters was really bullying, so they decided to let the MiG-21bis fighter, which entered into service in 1972, conduct simulated air combat with a captured F-5E. The final result of that simulated air combat was beyond everyone's expectations: no matter what combat manoeuvre the MiG-21bis fighter did during the test, it couldn't avoid the fate of being shot down by the F-5E! The frustrated Soviet aircraft engineers decided to let their most advanced MiG-23M fighter at that time teach the F-5E fighter a lesson, but the result was almost the same: though the MiG-23M fighter could win in Beyond Visual Range engagements because of its R-23R medium-range semi-active radar-guided missile, however, the F-5E fighter could always maintain at the six o'clock position of MiG-23M fighter through various air combat manoeuvres. At last, the Soviet Union officially claimed that their aircraft was fully capable of competing with the most advanced fighter in the West at the time, but only the Soviet pilots knew that their nightmare would continue until today.

[[File:1200px-Three F-5E agressors from Alconbury 1983.jpg|left|thumb|381x381px|Three USAF aggressor unit F-5Es in formation.]]
Back in 1972, the USAF realised the need for dissimilar aircraft combat training, and they began to use T-38 Talon trainers as an aggressor aircraft at Nellis AFB, Nevada. Although the USAF wanted the more desirable F-5E jets to act as the aggressor's aircraft, the F-5Es produced at the time were prioritized to South Vietnam to save the situation. After the Saigon government finally fell in 1975, many F-5Es including those former Republic of Vietnam Air Force's planes that escaped to Thailand successfully were transported to those aggressor squadrons of the USAF, apart from their homeland, the USAF also established some aggressor squadrons in England and the Philippines to train with other fighter squadrons overseas. As for the US Navy, they also realized the need for dissimilar aircraft combat training, even earlier than the Air Force. The famous Top Gun program was first established in 1969, initially with A-4 Skyhawk, but later it was changed to T-38 Talon and F-5E. In the 1980s, the U.S Navy introduced the F-16N Fighting Falcon and Israel F-21A Kfir as the new aggressor aircraft, therefore, the use of F-5E waned. In 2009, Northrop Grumman delivered the last 44 ex-Swiss Air Force F-5E to the US Navy after modification for use as aggressor aircraft, these 41 single seat fighters and three fighters modified from F-5E and F-5F were renamed F-5N by US Navy (one interesting fact was that in 1965, Northrop also tested a modified F-5A 63-8421 fighter which was equipped with two new J85-GE-15 engine, and this aircraft was initially named F-5N too, the N referred to Northrop), these aircraft were served in VFC-13 and VFC-111 aggressor squadrons in Nevada and Florida.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-5e Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|Zxuj5qagO0Q|'''F-5E In War Thunder : A Basic Review''' - ''Tim's Variety War Thunder'''}}

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/526079-f-5e/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
* [https://archive.org/details/T.O.1F5E11984OCR/mode/2up/ Technical Order 1F-5E-1 - Flight Manual for F-5E/F-5F Aircraft]

{{AirManufacturer Northrop}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

MiG-3-34

2024-04-02T12:05:08Z

U84733411: /* Usage in battles */ Hugely expanded upon the level of detail of usage in battles since it only mentioned how to fight strike aircraft & bombers. Expanded on the pros & cons, & suitability sections.

{{About
| about = Soviet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = MiG-3 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_3_series_34
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The MiG-3-34 was an experimental variant of the MiG-3 series, that tried to address the relatively weak firepower that previous models had. The MiG-3-34 was meant to be a high-altitude fighter, and was one of the few Soviet fighters capable of doing so, but still not at the level of American or German fighters like the P-51 and Bf 109. The MiG-3 suffered from a lot of problems in its development, from negligent quality control in the assembly line to deficient armament and poor oxygen supply. The MiG-3 was caught in a tough spot during Operation Barbarossa: instead of intercepting bombers, it clashed against much more agile Bf 109s. The aircraft was deemed much inferior and quickly phased out in favour of more capable low altitude Yak and LaGG fighters.

Introduced in [[Update 1.41]], the MiG-3-34 is a fairly competitive aircraft for its BR. It should be played similarly to aircraft like the I-185 and I-225, using its good top speed and acceleration. Since it lacks the agility and armament to go toe-to-toe against aircraft like the Spitfire and Bf 109, the MiG-3-34 should climb to high altitudes, especially to intercept enemy bombers. At altitudes above 4,000 m, the MiG-3-34's engine starts to perform at its maximum capacity, and its lack of agility is compensated at higher altitudes when speed and acceleration starts to become more important.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

The MiG-3-34 is not a turnfighter, it's a Boom & Zoom aircraft. It is a bit sluggish when turning, although the flaps can be used to turn better. This aircraft has a good climb rate for its BR. Once upgraded, the plane is enjoyable, though it may be a bit challenging to master.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 7,800 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 587 || 569 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.2 || 24.1 || 12.8 || 12.8 || rowspan="2" | 450
|-
! Upgraded
| 641 || 612 || 20.8 || 22.0 || 20.2 || 16.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 457 || 428 || 280 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 350 || < 280 || < 350 || > 370
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

The plane's protection is average overall. The placement of critical components is good, with fuel tanks being self-sealing with neutral gas pressurization, and close to the cockpit. The pilot has 8 mm armour in the back of the seat, and 8.5 mm armour under the seat which protect against stray bullets and direct hits from small calibre guns, but do not protect against large calibre machine guns & autocannons. The lack of armoured glass and side protection for the cockpit makes it easy to take out the pilot in head on enagements, high deflection shots, or if it's tailing a bomber.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|ShVAK (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)

== Usage in battles ==


The MiG-3-34 is an interceptor which are mainly used to ''intercept'' bombers and strike aircraft, and take them out quickly with its 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons which can deal large amounts of damage in close range. Be mindful of bombers with large fuselages that are designed to take large amounts of damage; these can drain your ammo quickly and force you to be exposed to their defensive turrets for longer. All interceptors get an air spawn behind the base, use this to your advantage and find a good climb ratio that lets you gain both altitude and speed, and keep in mind that MiG series interceptors work best at high altitudes.

Use the high-powered 20 mm cannons wisely because they have only 200 rounds per gun, which depletes faster than you'd expect. Try to aim for critical components such as engines, control surfaces, and crew members. Avoid getting in direct line of sight of a bomber or strike aircraft's gunners, as you can easily get the pilot taken out by their defensive turrets. Try to intercept from the side and aim for the tail, wings, or cockpit. Consider avoiding the tracer belt if you're focusing on bombers and strike aircraft, as the lack of a dedicated penetration round that can travel through the fuselage and armor may cause problems with taking out crew members and vital components in sturdy & heavily armored, or spacious airframes.

For engaging other fighters, Boom & Zoom tactics work favorably well in the MiG-3-34 due to the typically less-aware players at this BR and the MiG's great stability at high speed. Climbing at 20 degrees at the start of the match should get you to an altitude that puts you above most of the enemy fighters and roughly within equal altitude of the bombers (ideally climb to 18,000 ft / 5486 m, which is easily achievable by maintaining the 20 degree climb upon spawning). Only the best climbers of this BR range that you can face like the Spitfire Mk.i / ii and Bf-109 E / F are more likely to be at equal or greater altitude than you if they're flown by more experienced players that understand the importance of altitude advantage.

Keep in mind that your maximum dive speed is lower than the Spitfire, 109, and most notably the Ki-44-I due to the MiG-3's wooden construction of its wings, making it extremely hard or nigh impossible to outrun them if they choose to dive on you. The Bf 109 E & F in particular can dive just shy of 100 km/h faster than you before they start disintegrating, and the Ki-44 a blistering 150 km/h faster, but the 109s suffer badly from pitch compression at those speeds, which may open up an opportunity to force an overshoot, and the Ki-44 has very poor energy retention, so even though they can dive much faster than you can and turn much quicker, they can't hold onto that speed if they're forced to make even a few turns. To avoid surpassing the structural limit of the wings, cut the engine throttle to 0%, and dive at a shallower angle or do some horizontal turns to bleed speed when nearing the structural limit if your target is quite a distance away from you. Cutting the engine to idle also makes for a stealthier attack due to there not being the warning sound of a roaring engine rapidly approaching.

With the good energy vertical energy retention the MiG-3 has after coming out of a dive, you can energy trap enemy aircraft fairly effectively with maneuvers such as the [[wikipedia:Wingover|wingover]], especially against those with particularly poor vertical retention like the Spitfire & Hurricane, I-16 (in the rare instance that Soviet-built aircraft are on both teams in an RB match), A6M2 Zero, and Ki-44, but be more cautious when using such manoeuvres against aircraft that also have good vertical retention like the Bf-109E & F, P-38 Lightning, F6F Hellcat, and F4U Corsair, as whether or not you can successfully energy trap them is much more dependent on your own airspeed vs theirs. The Hellcat in particular is extremely dangerous as it was specifically designed to have excellent boom and zoom performance to counter the A6M Zero.

The MiG-3 can ''to a lesser extent'' be used as a ground attacker, but it is ill advised due to the sub-optimal armour protection for the pilot and complete lack for the vital components, low ammo count and low quantity of guns, mediocre penetration of the AP-I round, and the fact that it can't carry any bombs or rockets. It's better suited for being used in anti-CAS against strike aircraft and medium bombers that other planes and weaker-armed SPAAGs may have trouble taking down.

Using the MiG-3 as a dogfighter is sub-optimal, as it simply can't turn tightly enough to be competitive with most of the other single engine fighters at this BR, especially the British and Japanese. Even against some twin-engines you may be outperformed, such as the P-38 and Beaufighter Mk. VIc. Resort to this as a last stand if no other options are avaliable, and hope your allies will arrive in time to assist or that the enemy makes a grave mistake.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* 2 x 20 mm ShVAK cannons are powerful at close range, fairly accurate, have decent velocity, and come with excellent belt options for BR 2.7
* Durable construction which can handle up to 700km/h dives, and good stability at high speed to make aiming easier
* Good acceleration at low speed thanks to its powerful engine
* It takes a while to overheat the engine with WEP / impossible to overheat at high altitude, and quickly cools down when throttled back to 100%
* Great climb rate for its BR
* Strong flaps which can be used to decrease turn time
* Roll rate is good at high altitudes
* Good vertical energy retention allows effective usage of energy trap manoevures
* Self-sealing fuel tanks with NGP makes it very unlikely to catch fire, or remain on fire long enough to cause severe damage

'''Cons:'''

* Limited ammunition of 200 rounds per gun
* Not very manoeuvrable in turns
* Pilot, engine, and coolant systems are vulnerable due to sub-optimal armour and lack of bulletproof glass
* No additional armament other than 20 mm cannons, will likely need time to adjust from earlier MiG-3 armaments
* Maximum dive speed is unfavorable compared to the majority of American, some British & German, and specific Japanese fighters

== History ==


Though riddled with shortcomings, the I-200/MiG-1 fighter/interceptor aircraft proved to be both a popular and capable aircraft with pilots that had experience flying them. To address the oft-cited shortcomings, aircraft designers Mikoyan and Gurevich set out to rectify these issues, not only to make the aircraft more pilot-friendly but to make it a more effective fighter/interceptor.

By utilizing a full-sized model of the aircraft in a wind tunnel, designers quickly set about documenting necessary changes in the aircraft's configuration. The increase of the outer wing dihedral improved the wing's overall stability and lengthening the fuselage by just four inches improved the horizontal stability of the aircraft. By happenstance, the minute change in length created enough space for an additional 66 gallon (250 litres) fuel tank installation behind the pilot seat. Inert exhaust gases were routed to the fuel tanks to help improve the survivability of the aircraft and pilot by reducing the likelihood of fuel fires if enemy gunfire punctured the fuel tanks. Other improvements included strengthening the landing gear, larger main wheels, extending the canopy glazing aft for better visibility, improved gunsight, updated configuration of the instrument panel and an overall increase to 750 rounds of ammunition per machine gun.

After making the recommended updates and changes, the heavily modified I-200/MiG-1 (fourth revision) made its maiden flight on 29 October 1940. The Soviet state accepted this version of the aircraft during December 1940 State acceptance trials and due to the significant changes made to the plane was renamed to MiG-3. Though the Mikoyan-Gurevich design bureau rectified many of the MiG-1's deficiencies, unfortunately, the resulting aircraft ended up being 550 lbs (250 kg) heavier and reduced service ceiling by 1,500 ft (457 m). They also took approximately a minute longer to reach 16,000 ft (4,900 m) than the original MiG-1s. Two other positive outcomes for the MiG-3 was an overall increase in the aircraft's speed at altitude and sea-level along with an increase in its service range.

Many of the initial MiG-3 airframes pushed out to the VVS regiments which were considered poor quality and unusable. After an inquiry completed, a panel found that the Soviet Air Force Research Institute was negligent in their duty to monitor the quality of the aircraft coming off the assembly line. After several demotions of senior managers and the execution of the institute head, new management set to address the problems with the MiG-3.

Though designed as a high-altitude bomber-interceptor, the MiG-3's pilot's oxygen supply was woefully inadequate, both fuel and oil pumps failed to keep necessary pressure at altitude and pilot inexperience with high altitude flying all played against the aircraft's abilities. Once again, the MiG Design Bureau set out to fix these deficiencies and when complete, the MiG-3 design teams optimized it for high altitude operations above 20,000 ft (6,000 m). Here the MiG-3 boasted almost a 20 mph (26 km/h) speed advantage over the German Bf 109E, though at sea-level, this advantage disappeared and the MiG-3 had roughly the same top speed as the Bf 109.

The weapons of the MiG-3 always seemed lacking compared to other aircraft such as the Bf 109 which typically sported a 20 mm canon along with machine guns. MiG-3s of all iterations only had machine guns in the 12.7 mm and 7.62 mm varieties. Though experiments with wing-mounted gun pods and rockets took place, reduction of airspeed due to them often resulted in the pilots having them removed, one of the few times where fighter pilots prefered streamlined aircraft over firepower. Ultimately the new gun sight was not fit for the task, so pilots often relied on getting as close to the enemy aircraft as possible before opening fire, sometimes within point-blank range to ensure a hit.

Leading up to the German invasion titled Operation Barbarossa, MiG-3s found homes at front-line regiments. Here, they could ideally intercept any hostile bomber or reconnaissance aircraft that flew over such as the German Ju-86P. Unfortunately, at the beginning of the German invasion, the MiG-3, though one of the best fighters available to Soviet pilots, proved to be unsuited for the task at hand. Instead of intercepting bombers and reconnaissance aircraft, they instead fought more agile Bf 109s and such in a fashion which negated all of the MiG-3's advantages, and it struggled. With the Bf 109 being more agile and had better weapons, the MiG-3 fought for a foothold but often lost. It was around this time that other Soviet fighters such as the Yak and LaGG series aircraft were debuting and showing their effectiveness at lower altitude combat with more agility and better weapon options. Forcing the aircraft to work as a bomber and ground attack aircraft proved to be an, even more, less effective than as a low-altitude fighter.

Some Soviet pilots did find success while flying the MiG-3. Aleksander Pokryshkin was one such pilot, as his initial foray into air combat was at the controls of a MiG-3. It was while flying the MiG-3 that Pokryshkin scored several victories against the German Bf 109. However, it was also during this time he realized that Soviet air combat doctrine was outdated, and he took detailed notes of his and other's accounts at air combat to determine a better way to fight. Pokryshkin's experience in the MiG-3 helped shape future Soviet air combat tactics for pilots flying more capable aircraft such as the Yak-1B, P-39K and Lavochkin fighters. Pokryskin was quoted as saying, "''The operational advantage of the MiG-3 seemed to be obscured by its certain defects. However, these advantages could undoubtedly be exploited by a pilot able to discover them''."

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_3_series_34 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

[[File:MiG-3-34 Sanya V. Litvyak.mp4|thumb|"Sanya V. Litvyak" collaboration camouflage|none]]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Curtiss [[P-40 (Family)|P-40]]
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
* Messerschmitt [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1 (Family)|Yak-1]]

== External links ==


* [https://old-forum.warthunder.ru/index.php?/topic/100791-mig-3-34-serii/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance (Russian Forum)]
* [[wikipedia:Wingover|The wingover maneuver (Wikipedia)]]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{USSR fighters}}

User:U84733411

2024-01-09T05:17:58Z

U84733411: Just a VERY basic summary of who I am and what I intend to do on the Wiki.

I'm just a regular War Thunder player that's been playing for a very long time, I first started somewhere around late 2013 - early-mid 2014 on another account named calvery_strixr (Or calvary_strixr, don't remember 100%, the account was originally named superpla (probably because superplane was taken).) after the open-beta period had already ended. This account was registered in mid-2019 after I lost the profile for calvery_strixr for a few years, and has now become my main account. Regained access to strixr in around 2020-2021, where I only keep it as a time capsule of sorts now. ''Technically(?)'' makes me an Old Guard player, but I don't care for the title much.

My largest contributions to the wiki to date is on the Premium [[F-4S Phantom II]] wikipage. I primarily wish to help improve the grammatical quality of other wiki pages whenever I have the free time, and large contributions like the F-4S will be very uncommon.

F2H-2

2023-12-18T12:25:22Z

U84733411: /* Modifications and economy */ Merged cell to fix minor oversight

{{Specs-Card
|code=f2h-2
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_f2h-2.jpg
}}

== Description ==

The Banshee first started life as the XFD-1 Phantom (not to be confused with the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom II]]) in the very late stages of World War 2. It was intended to be used during the planned invasion of Japan in 1946. A decent number of Phantoms were built, but they were quickly out of service when the far improved XF2D-1 Banshee was designed. It was more powerful and had more range thanks to its better engines and larger airframe. The F2H-2 Banshee was the second production variant of the Banshee. It had provisions for more fuel tanks and better engines than the F2H-1. The Westinghouse J34-WE-34 engine provided an 8% increase in thrust and allowed for more pylons to be added to the airframe. This would also be the most produced variant, with over 300 being built.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced in [[Update 1.45 "Steel Generals"]]. The F2H-2 Banshee is a fantastic jet fighter with great overall speed and good manoeuvrability. The Banshee is a very stable platform at high speeds. With a structural speed limit of just under 1,000 km/h (621 mph), the Banshee can easily out-dive many early jet fighters. Furthermore, the Banshee comes armed with four chin-mounted 20 mm cannons, which are devastating to enemy aircraft with the air target belt. Overall, this jet is one of the best early US jets; its BR coupled with its very good performance make it a very pleasant aircraft to fly and grind the whole US air tree.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


The F2H-2 Banshee is a carrier-based jet fighter aircraft. The plane is powered by the Westinghouse J34-WE-34 engine, the same that can be found in the F3D-1, although it is over 90 km/h faster than the former in level flight at sea level, it can reach 933 km/h. The Banshee is significantly faster than the F-80C and slower than jets from other nations, the Yak-30, M.D.452, J29 or export versions of the F-84G, also the structural speed which is 994 km/h is lower than their maximum level speed, so it can struggle with catching up to them.
Its level acceleration is decent, it varies a lot on the fuel amount since the plane carries a lot of it and when there is 30 minutes or less left it is very comparable to jets at similar battle rating, but any F-86 or MiG-15 version will easily outperform it. When it comes to climbing it can start struggling against any other planes, when the plane is fully loaded it is only 27 m/s and increases to ~37 m/s when there is only 20 minutes (30%) of fuel left.
The F2H can fly for around 30 minutes at 100% of power, then it can start to overheat. There is no time limit for flying at 94%.

The manoeuvrability is also decent: at low and medium speed it can give a hard time to jets with swept wings and some other like the F-84G, performing a full horizontal circle will take 25 seconds at 1000 m with full fuel tanks and around 20 seconds with 20 minutes of fuel. The flaps also can decrease the turn time by 20% but their drawback is their quite low speed limit. The plane will suffer from high speed compressibility near 1000 km/h IAS. Since it is a carrier-based jet, its stall speed is low: it varies from 185 to 205 km/h IAS, depending on the weight.
The positive and negative G limit for wings are very low, the plane can suffer from wing failure after reaching close to 9G with full loadout. When rolling, it can reach up to 100 degrees per second at 600 km/h IAS and it is mediocre below 300 km/h IAS, 50 degrees per second and lower. The Banshee has also access to airbrakes which can help during landing or in combat situations to slow down the plane.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 0 m - sea level)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 910 || 884 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.8 || 27.8 || 21.6 || 20.2 || rowspan="2" | 670
|-
! Upgraded
| 947 || 933 || 25.8 || 26.0 || 33.9 || 27.4
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 503 || 473 || 325 || ~8 || ~3
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 620 || < 650 || < 700 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="6" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Westinghouse J34-WE-34 || 2
| colspan="3" | 5,620 kg || colspan="3" | 335 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 60m fuel || 69m fuel
|-
| 600 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
| 6,674 kg || 7,178 kg || 7,980 kg || 8,689 kg || 9,142 kg || 11,000 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 60m fuel || 69m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 1,469 kgf || N/A
| 0.44 || 0.41 || 0.37 || 0.34 || 0.32 || 0.27
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 1,469 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.44 || 0.41 || 0.37 || 0.34 || 0.32 || 0.27
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

''Compressor'' and ''Engine'' are always useful upgrades and all acceleration unlocks are a top priority. Given the ''uniqueness'' of the AN/M3 armament ''New 20 mm cannons'' and ''[[G-Suit]]'' should be preferable tier 4 goals. The stock belts are better than any other type of ammo, due to more two times more HEFI-T inside of them, but for the improved cannons, they need to be researched, albeit that can wait past the G-Suit. To help with the manoeuvrability issues, boosters should be considered a priority as well.

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M3 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 4 x 20 mm M3 cannons, nose-mounted (150 rpg = 600 total)

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}

{{main|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|HVAR}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance presets:

* Without load
* 8 x HVAR rockets
* 4 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 200gal wingtip mounted drop tanks

==== Custom loadout options ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
!
!1!! width="5%" | 2 !! width="5%" | 3 !! width="5%" | 4 !! width="5%" | 5 !! width="5%" | 6 !! width="5%" | 7 !! width="5%" | 8 !! width="5%" | 9
!10
| rowspan="6" width="25%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! 250 lb AN-M57 bombs
|
| || || 1* || 1 || 1 || 1* || ||
|
|-
! 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs
|
| || || || 1* || 1* || || ||
|
|-
! HVAR rockets
|
| 1 || 1 || 1* || 1 || 1 || 1* || 1 || 1
|
|-
!200gal drop tanks
!1
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!1
|-
| colspan="11" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 300 kg
|-
| colspan="12" | * 500 lb bombs cannot be equipped with ordnance in the adjacent hardpoint
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The Banshee is first in the US naval jet lineup and possesses many characteristics that make it a fantastic start for jet players.

Some tips to use it effectively are:

*Staying at a high altitude (side-climbing)
*Avoiding/evading higher-flying prop and jet planes (Stay aware of your surroundings and watch for enemy fighters)
*Using Boom & Zoom or Hit & Run tactics

In AB, the F2H is actually quite mediocre. Its high BR makes it liable to be put with superior jets such as the Me-262 (which has unlimited fuel, as is characteristic of AB) or the F-86 Sabre.

AB will initially be frustrating as the un-upgraded Banshee is a very poor performer. Its cannons jam, it has a relatively poor climb rate, and acceleration is poor as well.

Once upgraded, however, the Banshee can be a very effective and useful plane.

The F2H-2 is most effectively used as an energy fighter. It has great energy retention, turns well, and accelerates quite well once fully researched. However, the stock Banshee is terrible compared to super-props such as the [[Tempest Mk II]], [[F8F-1B]], [[La-9]], and others. Therefore, it is recommended to climb at the beginning of a match to at least 4-6 km as the Banshee performs extremely well at these altitudes. However, keep in mind that evasion of superior planes such as the F8F-1B or the [[MiG-15]] is key. Once optimal altitude is reached, Boom & Zoom can be employed. The F2H has sluggish controls at speeds below 482 km/h (300 mph) so try to maintain above that speed in level flight. But when facing super-props, low-speed stability coupled with an airbrake makes the Banshee an extremely good prop-killer.

If you are unlucky, you will face the [[F-86A-5|F-86A]] and [[MiG-15]] in some battles, be sure to avoid them at all costs as they climb far better than the Banshee and have superior top speed.

Unfortunately, like most other jets, modifications take a long while to grind. Go for anything that increases the Banshee's climb rate. Leave the cannon ammo belts alone because default has the most HE shells (besides Stealth), and research the ''New Cannons'' modification; It will markedly improve the terrible spread of the cannon.

The cockpit of the F2H-2 is fantastic- the bubble canopy provides good visibility to the front and back of the aircraft.

Even with good advantages as a starting jet fighter (if you went with the Naval Line of USA Fighters), it has some disadvantages going up against MiG-15's and MiG-17's. It can certainly outrun La-174's and La-15's with splendid ease, but it will never be able to outrun a MiG once it's on your tail. As for MiG-9's, they can't outrun the Banshee but can probably out-turn it if the MiG-9 pilot is properly trained and experienced.

It's best used as a support fighter in EVERY situation unless you are down-tiered and you are put against Ho-229's and Me-262's. In this case, you can become an aggressive fighter and easily score some kills. Although if you are put up against MiG-17's, MiG-15's and La-15's, best prepare yourself to side-climb and get behind your allies. Get some altitude and be patient to pursue MiG's that are either chasing Hunters or Sabres or an unfortunate bomber.

A good recommendation is that you should never go for [[IL-28|IL-28s]] alone. Other recommendations are that you should never take rockets or bombs unless you're in a squad and you bomb points together. It is NOT recommended either way. Another tip is to try holding your speed and use airbrakes when being tailed by a MiG.

=== Radars ===

The F2H-2 is equipped with an AN/APG-30 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="4" | AN/APG-30 - Rangefinding radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Tracking Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum Tracking Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
|-
| 2,750 m || 300 m || ±9° || ±9°
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Amazing firepower (especially when spaded)
* Very good energy retention
* Good sustained turn rate
* Landing hook for carriers

'''Cons:'''

* Cannon jams quickly and are very inaccurate when stock
* Large turn radius
* Poor acceleration
* Poor instantaneous turn rate

== History ==

The twin-engine F2H Banshee was a follow up to McDonnell's successful FH-1 Phantom and was designed to become the Navy's next carrier-borne aircraft. The two aircraft appear very similar but the F2H was improved in several ways. Primary upgrades include larger airframe, heavier armament, and better power-plants. Nearly 800 Banshees were built for the Navy and Marine Corps during the early 1950s.

The Banshee saw use in Korea with the Navy and Marines escorting Air Force B-29s on bombing missions but would never encounter an enemy fighter throughout the whole war. As a fighter/bomber, the Banshee saw limited use, but the greatest role the F2H performed in the war was doing reconnaissance over hostile territory. A majority of the F2H's service took place in the Atlantic and Mediterranean oceans but its appeal came from its ability to go unnoticed by enemy forces and would primarily serve recon or escort purposes. The Navy and Marine Corps would retire the Banshee from active service around the early 1960s and would replace it with aircraft such as the F9F Cougar, F3H Demon, and the F4D Skyray. In the 1950s several refurbished Banshees were purchased by the Canadian government where they saw limited service on the HMCS ''Bonaventure'' until the early 1960s when they were finally retired from military service.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f2h-2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
File:FighterImage_Banshee2.jpg|The Banshee in flight with other identical aircraft.
File:FighterImage_Banshee1.jpg|F2H attacking swarm of Me 262s in test flight mode.
</gallery>

== See also ==
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/264956-mcdonnell-f2h-2/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

F2H-2

2023-12-18T12:02:57Z

U84733411: /* Custom loadout options */ Included the Banshee's wingtip mounted drop tanks to custom loadout options now that they can be detached.

{{Specs-Card
|code=f2h-2
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_f2h-2.jpg
}}

== Description ==

The Banshee first started life as the XFD-1 Phantom (not to be confused with the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom II]]) in the very late stages of World War 2. It was intended to be used during the planned invasion of Japan in 1946. A decent number of Phantoms were built, but they were quickly out of service when the far improved XF2D-1 Banshee was designed. It was more powerful and had more range thanks to its better engines and larger airframe. The F2H-2 Banshee was the second production variant of the Banshee. It had provisions for more fuel tanks and better engines than the F2H-1. The Westinghouse J34-WE-34 engine provided an 8% increase in thrust and allowed for more pylons to be added to the airframe. This would also be the most produced variant, with over 300 being built.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced in [[Update 1.45 "Steel Generals"]]. The F2H-2 Banshee is a fantastic jet fighter with great overall speed and good manoeuvrability. The Banshee is a very stable platform at high speeds. With a structural speed limit of just under 1,000 km/h (621 mph), the Banshee can easily out-dive many early jet fighters. Furthermore, the Banshee comes armed with four chin-mounted 20 mm cannons, which are devastating to enemy aircraft with the air target belt. Overall, this jet is one of the best early US jets; its BR coupled with its very good performance make it a very pleasant aircraft to fly and grind the whole US air tree.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


The F2H-2 Banshee is a carrier-based jet fighter aircraft. The plane is powered by the Westinghouse J34-WE-34 engine, the same that can be found in the F3D-1, although it is over 90 km/h faster than the former in level flight at sea level, it can reach 933 km/h. The Banshee is significantly faster than the F-80C and slower than jets from other nations, the Yak-30, M.D.452, J29 or export versions of the F-84G, also the structural speed which is 994 km/h is lower than their maximum level speed, so it can struggle with catching up to them.
Its level acceleration is decent, it varies a lot on the fuel amount since the plane carries a lot of it and when there is 30 minutes or less left it is very comparable to jets at similar battle rating, but any F-86 or MiG-15 version will easily outperform it. When it comes to climbing it can start struggling against any other planes, when the plane is fully loaded it is only 27 m/s and increases to ~37 m/s when there is only 20 minutes (30%) of fuel left.
The F2H can fly for around 30 minutes at 100% of power, then it can start to overheat. There is no time limit for flying at 94%.

The manoeuvrability is also decent: at low and medium speed it can give a hard time to jets with swept wings and some other like the F-84G, performing a full horizontal circle will take 25 seconds at 1000 m with full fuel tanks and around 20 seconds with 20 minutes of fuel. The flaps also can decrease the turn time by 20% but their drawback is their quite low speed limit. The plane will suffer from high speed compressibility near 1000 km/h IAS. Since it is a carrier-based jet, its stall speed is low: it varies from 185 to 205 km/h IAS, depending on the weight.
The positive and negative G limit for wings are very low, the plane can suffer from wing failure after reaching close to 9G with full loadout. When rolling, it can reach up to 100 degrees per second at 600 km/h IAS and it is mediocre below 300 km/h IAS, 50 degrees per second and lower. The Banshee has also access to airbrakes which can help during landing or in combat situations to slow down the plane.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 0 m - sea level)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 910 || 884 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.8 || 27.8 || 21.6 || 20.2 || rowspan="2" | 670
|-
! Upgraded
| 947 || 933 || 25.8 || 26.0 || 33.9 || 27.4
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 503 || 473 || 325 || ~8 || ~3
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 620 || < 650 || < 700 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="6" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Westinghouse J34-WE-34 || 2
| colspan="3" | 5,620 kg || colspan="3" | 335 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 60m fuel || 69m fuel
|-
| 600 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
| 6,674 kg || 7,178 kg || 7,980 kg || 8,689 kg || 9,142 kg || 11,000 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 60m fuel || 69m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 1,469 kgf || N/A
| 0.44 || 0.41 || 0.37 || 0.34 || 0.32 || 0.27
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 1,469 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.44 || 0.41 || 0.37 || 0.34 || 0.32 || 0.27
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

''Compressor'' and ''Engine'' are always useful upgrades and all acceleration unlocks are a top priority. Given the ''uniqueness'' of the AN/M3 armament ''New 20 mm cannons'' and ''[[G-Suit]]'' should be preferable tier 4 goals. The stock belts are better than any other type of ammo, due to more two times more HEFI-T inside of them, but for the improved cannons, they need to be researched, albeit that can wait past the G-Suit. To help with the manoeuvrability issues, boosters should be considered a priority as well.

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M3 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 4 x 20 mm M3 cannons, nose-mounted (150 rpg = 600 total)

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}

{{main|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|HVAR}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance presets:

* Without load
* 8 x HVAR rockets
* 4 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 200gal wingtip mounted drop tanks

==== Custom loadout options ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
!
!1!! width="5%" | 2 !! width="5%" | 3 !! width="5%" | 4 !! width="5%" | 5 !! width="5%" | 6 !! width="5%" | 7 !! width="5%" | 8 !! width="5%" | 9
!10
| rowspan="6" width="25%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! 250 lb AN-M57 bombs
|
| || || 1* || 1 || 1 || 1* || ||
|
|-
! 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs
|
| || || || 1* || 1* || || ||
|
|-
! HVAR rockets
|
| 1 || 1 || 1* || 1 || 1 || 1* || 1 || 1
|
|-
!200gal drop tanks
!1
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!
!1
|-
| colspan="10" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 300 kg
|
|-
| colspan="12" | * 500 lb bombs cannot be equipped with ordnance in the adjacent hardpoint
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The Banshee is first in the US naval jet lineup and possesses many characteristics that make it a fantastic start for jet players.

Some tips to use it effectively are:

*Staying at a high altitude (side-climbing)
*Avoiding/evading higher-flying prop and jet planes (Stay aware of your surroundings and watch for enemy fighters)
*Using Boom & Zoom or Hit & Run tactics

In AB, the F2H is actually quite mediocre. Its high BR makes it liable to be put with superior jets such as the Me-262 (which has unlimited fuel, as is characteristic of AB) or the F-86 Sabre.

AB will initially be frustrating as the un-upgraded Banshee is a very poor performer. Its cannons jam, it has a relatively poor climb rate, and acceleration is poor as well.

Once upgraded, however, the Banshee can be a very effective and useful plane.

The F2H-2 is most effectively used as an energy fighter. It has great energy retention, turns well, and accelerates quite well once fully researched. However, the stock Banshee is terrible compared to super-props such as the [[Tempest Mk II]], [[F8F-1B]], [[La-9]], and others. Therefore, it is recommended to climb at the beginning of a match to at least 4-6 km as the Banshee performs extremely well at these altitudes. However, keep in mind that evasion of superior planes such as the F8F-1B or the [[MiG-15]] is key. Once optimal altitude is reached, Boom & Zoom can be employed. The F2H has sluggish controls at speeds below 482 km/h (300 mph) so try to maintain above that speed in level flight. But when facing super-props, low-speed stability coupled with an airbrake makes the Banshee an extremely good prop-killer.

If you are unlucky, you will face the [[F-86A-5|F-86A]] and [[MiG-15]] in some battles, be sure to avoid them at all costs as they climb far better than the Banshee and have superior top speed.

Unfortunately, like most other jets, modifications take a long while to grind. Go for anything that increases the Banshee's climb rate. Leave the cannon ammo belts alone because default has the most HE shells (besides Stealth), and research the ''New Cannons'' modification; It will markedly improve the terrible spread of the cannon.

The cockpit of the F2H-2 is fantastic- the bubble canopy provides good visibility to the front and back of the aircraft.

Even with good advantages as a starting jet fighter (if you went with the Naval Line of USA Fighters), it has some disadvantages going up against MiG-15's and MiG-17's. It can certainly outrun La-174's and La-15's with splendid ease, but it will never be able to outrun a MiG once it's on your tail. As for MiG-9's, they can't outrun the Banshee but can probably out-turn it if the MiG-9 pilot is properly trained and experienced.

It's best used as a support fighter in EVERY situation unless you are down-tiered and you are put against Ho-229's and Me-262's. In this case, you can become an aggressive fighter and easily score some kills. Although if you are put up against MiG-17's, MiG-15's and La-15's, best prepare yourself to side-climb and get behind your allies. Get some altitude and be patient to pursue MiG's that are either chasing Hunters or Sabres or an unfortunate bomber.

A good recommendation is that you should never go for [[IL-28|IL-28s]] alone. Other recommendations are that you should never take rockets or bombs unless you're in a squad and you bomb points together. It is NOT recommended either way. Another tip is to try holding your speed and use airbrakes when being tailed by a MiG.

=== Radars ===

The F2H-2 is equipped with an AN/APG-30 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="4" | AN/APG-30 - Rangefinding radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Tracking Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum Tracking Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
|-
| 2,750 m || 300 m || ±9° || ±9°
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Amazing firepower (especially when spaded)
* Very good energy retention
* Good sustained turn rate
* Landing hook for carriers

'''Cons:'''

* Cannon jams quickly and are very inaccurate when stock
* Large turn radius
* Poor acceleration
* Poor instantaneous turn rate

== History ==

The twin-engine F2H Banshee was a follow up to McDonnell's successful FH-1 Phantom and was designed to become the Navy's next carrier-borne aircraft. The two aircraft appear very similar but the F2H was improved in several ways. Primary upgrades include larger airframe, heavier armament, and better power-plants. Nearly 800 Banshees were built for the Navy and Marine Corps during the early 1950s.

The Banshee saw use in Korea with the Navy and Marines escorting Air Force B-29s on bombing missions but would never encounter an enemy fighter throughout the whole war. As a fighter/bomber, the Banshee saw limited use, but the greatest role the F2H performed in the war was doing reconnaissance over hostile territory. A majority of the F2H's service took place in the Atlantic and Mediterranean oceans but its appeal came from its ability to go unnoticed by enemy forces and would primarily serve recon or escort purposes. The Navy and Marine Corps would retire the Banshee from active service around the early 1960s and would replace it with aircraft such as the F9F Cougar, F3H Demon, and the F4D Skyray. In the 1950s several refurbished Banshees were purchased by the Canadian government where they saw limited service on the HMCS ''Bonaventure'' until the early 1960s when they were finally retired from military service.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f2h-2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
File:FighterImage_Banshee2.jpg|The Banshee in flight with other identical aircraft.
File:FighterImage_Banshee1.jpg|F2H attacking swarm of Me 262s in test flight mode.
</gallery>

== See also ==
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/264956-mcdonnell-f2h-2/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-10-20T21:54:25Z

U84733411: /* Usage in battles */ Added some text about how to combat the MiG-29SMT, mentioning its superior avionics and weaponry, but much inferior agility compared to the 9.13. This might be the last aircraft mentioned as this section is now a very long read.

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The F-4 Phantom II served its most notable service period in the Vietnam War for both the US Air Force (USAF) and US Navy (USN). The USN had the [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] as their latest aircraft, and it began to show its age in the post Vietnam War period. A modernization program began to keep the F-4J up to date with latest upgrades. Improvements were done in avionics, weapon systems, airframe, and undercarriage, but the two most notable improvements were wing leading-edge slats, for improved manoeuvrability, and new smokeless engines. The F-4S flew for USN up until the Phantom's retirement in the late 1980s, replaced by more modern aircraft like the [[F-14A Early|F-14 Tomcat]] and the F-18 Hornet.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], is one of the top versions of the F-4 Phantom II in the game. While the overall play style is not very different from the F-4J, the performance improvements in manoeuvrability should allow the F-4S to occasionally get the upper hand over even more modern fighter designs that it can encounter. Outside the dogfighting range, the usual complement of BVR weaponry like the Sparrows alongside the PD radar should allow the F-4S to shoot down careless enemy fighters who can't evade in time.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armour plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilot and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take a few hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain airborne. Higher calibre guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. As with the F-4J, the RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) in the back of the cockpit cannot take control of the aircraft if the pilot is knocked out, as it lacks the dual controls found on the USAF variants of the Phantom (C & E.)

The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20 mm in calibre. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection and rear of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. There are additional fuel tanks located in the upper-front of the wings and in the bottom of the fuselage, but they are a much smaller and thinner target, so the chances that they get hit are much lower in comparison. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20 mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase manoeuvrability below ~970-1000 km/h SPD by allowing you to pull more AoA (Angle of Attack) which helps to tighten down your turning circle, but results in noticeably more energy bleed. Inversely, the slats will reduce the amount of AoA you can pull above the priorly-mentioned airspeed, which massively improves energy retention and delays pilot blackouts at the cost of an overall wider turn circle. This ability to control your AoA at various speeds can be an invaluable tool in winning engagements if properly mastered, but remember that you're still a Phantom; the F-4S can't turn tight enough to competitively dogfight most other top-tier aircraft even with the manoeuvrability upgrade, but it's good enough that you may be able to last in an extended engagement against a single opponent until an ally comes to your aid. 

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges. The AIM-7F is able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3 km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30 km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3 km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29 9.13, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 9.13 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both are able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you and your team's survival. The Yak-141 however, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has much more exploitable performance flaws; it can barely break the sound barrier due to high airframe drag, and bleeds energy severely in turns. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1v1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded manoeuvrability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their manoeuvres out of desperation.

The MiG-29SMT, while featuring more advanced avionics and the deadly R-73 infared missile at close range, along with the R-27ER for mid and long range, has far worse manoeuvreability than the 9.13 and is moderately heavier, making it much less dominant in a dogfight and unable to extend out of an engagement as easily. Avoiding detection from this aircraft as you approach the frontline is evermore paramount as you're now at an extremely large BVR disadvantage, but you'll find that it's relatively much easier to lead your shots on the SMT than many of the other 4th gen fighters if you manage to close the distance.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a rocket CCIP, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their firing range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
* One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
* Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance
* Slats provide valuable ability to control AoA and energy retention, increasing adaptability in aerial combat.

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Fires will very rapidly destroy the airframe, and effectiveness of the extinguishers is questionable
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|m-dyqOq5Xlo|'''F-4S Beginner's Tutorial in 10 Minutes''' - ''Jaek_''|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-09-06T23:31:08Z

U84733411: Expanded upon how F-4S manoeuverability is enhanced over F-4J, and provided details on how testing was done to verify the 'speed threshold'. Used this tactic before in matches, but did proper tests first to verify before adding.

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The F-4 Phantom II served its most notable service period in the Vietnam War for both the US Air Force (USAF) and US Navy (USN). The USN had the [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] as their latest aircraft, and it began to show its age in the post Vietnam War period. A modernization program began to keep the F-4J up to date with latest upgrades. Improvements were done in avionics, weapon systems, airframe, and undercarriage, but the two most notable improvements were wing leading-edge slats, for improved manoeuvrability, and new smokeless engines. The F-4S flew for USN up until the Phantom's retirement in the late 1980s, replaced by more modern aircraft like the [[F-14A Early|F-14 Tomcat]] and the F-18 Hornet.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], is one of the top versions of the F-4 Phantom II in the game. While the overall play style is not very different from the F-4J, the performance improvements in manoeuvrability should allow the F-4S to occasionally get the upper hand over even more modern fighter designs that it can encounter. Outside the dogfighting range, the usual complement of BVR weaponry like the Sparrows alongside the PD radar should allow the F-4S to shoot down careless enemy fighters who can't evade in time.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armour plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilot and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take a few hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain airborne. Higher calibre guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. As with the F-4J, the RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) in the back of the cockpit cannot take control of the aircraft if the pilot is knocked out, as it lacks the dual controls found on the USAF variants of the Phantom (C & E.)

The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20 mm in calibre. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection and rear of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. There are additional fuel tanks located in the upper-front of the wings and in the bottom of the fuselage, but they are a much smaller and thinner target, so the chances that they get hit are much lower in comparison. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20 mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase manoeuvrability below ~970-1000km/h SPD* by allowing you to pull more AoA (Angle of Attack) which helps to tighten down your turning circle, but results in noticeably more energy bleed. Inversely, the slats will reduce the amount of AoA you can pull above the priorly-mentioned airspeed, which massively improves energy retention and delays pilot blackouts at the cost of an overall wider turn circle. This ability to control your AoA at various speeds can be an invaluable tool in winning engagements if properly mastered, but remember that you're still a Phantom; the F-4S can't turn tight enough to competitively dogfight most other top-tier aircraft even with the manoeuvrability upgrade, but it's good enough that you may be able to last in an extended engagement against a single opponent until an ally comes to your aid.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges. The AIM-7F is able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3 km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30 km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3 km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you and your team's survival. The Yak-141 however, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has much more exploitable performance flaws; it can barely break the sound barrier due to high airframe drag, and bleeds energy severely in turns. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1v1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded manoeuvrability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their manoeuvres out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a rocket CCIP, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their firing range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Testing was done with a loadout consisting of 6 Sparrows and the gunpod with 30:23 / a full tank of fuel at ~1000ft and ~6500ft, starting from ~1190-1210km/h SPD. RB physics and good weather were selected with limited fuel and ammo disabled, and the test location was Peale Island. Testing was performed by continually turning horizontally with combat flaps deployed and full WEP at both specified altitudes while maintaining said altitude as best as possible.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
* One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
* Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance
* Slats provide valuable ability to control AoA and energy retention, increasing adaptability in aerial combat.

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Fires will very rapidly destroy the airframe, and effectiveness of the extinguishers is questionable
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|m-dyqOq5Xlo|'''F-4S Beginner's Tutorial in 10 Minutes''' - ''Jaek_''|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-08-20T21:27:43Z

U84733411: /* Survivability and armour */ fixed small oversight

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The F-4 Phantom II served its most notable service period in the Vietnam War for both the US Air Force (USAF) and US Navy (USN). The USN had the [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] as their latest aircraft, and it began to show its age in the post Vietnam War period. A modernization program began to keep the F-4J up to date with latest upgrades. Improvements were done in avionics, weapon systems, airframe, and undercarriage, but the two most notable improvements were wing leading-edge slats, for improved manoeuvrability, and new smokeless engines. The F-4S flew for USN up until the Phantom's retirement in the late 1980s, replaced by more modern aircraft like the [[F-14A Early|F-14 Tomcat]] and the F-18 Hornet.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], is one of the top versions of the F-4 Phantom II in the game. While the overall play style is not very different from the F-4J, the performance improvements in manoeuvrability should allow the F-4S to occasionally get the upper hand over even more modern fighter designs that it can encounter. Outside the dogfighting range, the usual complement of BVR weaponry like the Sparrows alongside the PD radar should allow the F-4S to shoot down careless enemy fighters who can't evade in time.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armour plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilot and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take a few hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain airborne. Higher calibre guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. As with the F-4J, the RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) in the back of the cockpit cannot take control of the aircraft if the pilot is knocked out, as it lacks the dual controls found on the USAF variants of the Phantom (C & E.)

The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20 mm in calibre. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection and rear of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. There are additional fuel tanks located in the upper-front of the wings and in the bottom of the fuselage, but they are a much smaller and thinner target, so the chances that they get hit are much lower in comparison. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20 mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase manoeuvrability, but as a side effect decrease energy retention. Even with improved manoeuvrability, the F-4S still does not pull hard enough to competitively dogfight most opponents, but it's good enough that you can potentially last in an extended engagement with a single enemy until an ally comes to your rescue. The sturdy construction of the F-4S' airframe even allows you to take a few hits from 20 mm rounds and remain in a flyable state.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges. The AIM-7F is able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3 km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30 km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3 km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you(r) (and your team's) survival. The Yak-141 on the other hand, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has a very low top speed for its BR; it can barely break the sound barrier, and suffers from atrocious energy retention. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1 on 1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded manoeuvrability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their manoeuvres out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a CCIP for them, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles in the convoys like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
* One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
* Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Fires will very rapidly destroy the airframe, and effectiveness of the extinguishers is questionable
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|m-dyqOq5Xlo|'''F-4S Beginner's Tutorial in 10 Minutes''' - ''Jaek_''|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-08-20T21:26:30Z

U84733411: /* Survivability and armour */ Forgot that the Radar Intercept Officer occupies the backseat and not just a "second pilot", fixed the error accordingly.

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The F-4 Phantom II served its most notable service period in the Vietnam War for both the US Air Force (USAF) and US Navy (USN). The USN had the [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] as their latest aircraft, and it began to show its age in the post Vietnam War period. A modernization program began to keep the F-4J up to date with latest upgrades. Improvements were done in avionics, weapon systems, airframe, and undercarriage, but the two most notable improvements were wing leading-edge slats, for improved manoeuvrability, and new smokeless engines. The F-4S flew for USN up until the Phantom's retirement in the late 1980s, replaced by more modern aircraft like the [[F-14A Early|F-14 Tomcat]] and the F-18 Hornet.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], is one of the top versions of the F-4 Phantom II in the game. While the overall play style is not very different from the F-4J, the performance improvements in manoeuvrability should allow the F-4S to occasionally get the upper hand over even more modern fighter designs that it can encounter. Outside the dogfighting range, the usual complement of BVR weaponry like the Sparrows alongside the PD radar should allow the F-4S to shoot down careless enemy fighters who can't evade in time.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armour plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilot and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take a few hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain airborne. Higher calibre guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. As with the F-4J, the RIO (Radar Intercept Officer) in the back of the cockpit cannot take control of the aircraft if the first is knocked out, as it lacks the dual controls found on the USAF variants of the Phantom (C & E.)

The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20 mm in calibre. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection and rear of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. There are additional fuel tanks located in the upper-front of the wings and in the bottom of the fuselage, but they are a much smaller and thinner target, so the chances that they get hit are much lower in comparison. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20 mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase manoeuvrability, but as a side effect decrease energy retention. Even with improved manoeuvrability, the F-4S still does not pull hard enough to competitively dogfight most opponents, but it's good enough that you can potentially last in an extended engagement with a single enemy until an ally comes to your rescue. The sturdy construction of the F-4S' airframe even allows you to take a few hits from 20 mm rounds and remain in a flyable state.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges. The AIM-7F is able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3 km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30 km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3 km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you(r) (and your team's) survival. The Yak-141 on the other hand, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has a very low top speed for its BR; it can barely break the sound barrier, and suffers from atrocious energy retention. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1 on 1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded manoeuvrability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their manoeuvres out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a CCIP for them, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles in the convoys like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
* One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
* Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Fires will very rapidly destroy the airframe, and effectiveness of the extinguishers is questionable
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|m-dyqOq5Xlo|'''F-4S Beginner's Tutorial in 10 Minutes''' - ''Jaek_''|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-07-28T10:05:20Z

U84733411: /* Pros and cons */ Added Con about the F-4S being very vulnerable to fire damage (Engines being right below the rearmost fuselage tanks makes it easy for flames to spread, and extinguisher more often than not can't extinguish the fire in time)

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The F-4 Phantom II served its most notable service period in the Vietnam War for both the US Air Force (USAF) and US Navy (USN). The USN had the [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] as their latest aircraft, and it began to show its age in the post Vietnam War period. A modernization program began to keep the F-4J up to date with latest upgrades. Improvements were done in avionics, weapon systems, airframe, and undercarriage, but the two most notable improvements were wing leading-edge slats, for improved manoeuvrability, and new smokeless engines. The F-4S flew for USN up until the Phantom's retirement in the late 1980s, replaced by more modern aircraft like the [[F-14A Early|F-14 Tomcat]] and the F-18 Hornet.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], is one of the top versions of the F-4 Phantom II in the game. While the overall play style is not very different from the F-4J, the performance improvements in manoeuvrability should allow the F-4S to occasionally get the upper hand over even more modern fighter designs that it can encounter. Outside the dogfighting range, the usual complement of BVR weaponry like the Sparrows alongside the PD radar should allow the F-4S to shoot down careless enemy fighters who can't evade in time.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armour plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilot and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take a few hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain airborne. Higher calibre guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. As with the F-4J, the second pilot in the back of the cockpit cannot take control of the aircraft if the first is knocked out, as it lacks the dual controls found on the USAF variants of the Phantom (C & E.)

The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20 mm in calibre. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection and rear of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. There are additional fuel tanks located in the upper-front of the wings and in the bottom of the fuselage, but they are a much smaller and thinner target, so the chances that they get hit are much lower in comparison. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20 mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase manoeuvrability, but as a side effect decrease energy retention. Even with improved manoeuvrability, the F-4S still does not pull hard enough to competitively dogfight most opponents, but it's good enough that you can potentially last in an extended engagement with a single enemy until an ally comes to your rescue. The sturdy construction of the F-4S' airframe even allows you to take a few hits from 20 mm rounds and remain in a flyable state.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges. The AIM-7F is able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3 km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30 km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3 km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you(r) (and your team's) survival. The Yak-141 on the other hand, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has a very low top speed for its BR; it can barely break the sound barrier, and suffers from atrocious energy retention. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1 on 1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded manoeuvrability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their manoeuvres out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a CCIP for them, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles in the convoys like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
* One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
* Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Fires will very rapidly destroy the airframe, and effectiveness of the extinguishers is questionable
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-07-28T09:56:20Z

U84733411: /* Survivability and armour */ Changed the implication of how many hits the F-4S can take from 20mm shells as the recent patch on Realshatter made the Vulcan and Colts much more deadly.

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The F-4 Phantom II served its most notable service period in the Vietnam War for both the US Air Force (USAF) and US Navy (USN). The USN had the [[F-4J Phantom II|F-4J]] as their latest aircraft, and it began to show its age in the post Vietnam War period. A modernization program began to keep the F-4J up to date with latest upgrades. Improvements were done in avionics, weapon systems, airframe, and undercarriage, but the two most notable improvements were wing leading-edge slats, for improved manoeuvrability, and new smokeless engines. The F-4S flew for USN up until the Phantom's retirement in the late 1980s, replaced by more modern aircraft like the [[F-14A Early|F-14 Tomcat]] and the F-18 Hornet.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]], is one of the top versions of the F-4 Phantom II in the game. While the overall play style is not very different from the F-4J, the performance improvements in manoeuvrability should allow the F-4S to occasionally get the upper hand over even more modern fighter designs that it can encounter. Outside the dogfighting range, the usual complement of BVR weaponry like the Sparrows alongside the PD radar should allow the F-4S to shoot down careless enemy fighters who can't evade in time.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armour plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilot and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take a few hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain airborne. Higher calibre guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. As with the F-4J, the second pilot in the back of the cockpit cannot take control of the aircraft if the first is knocked out, as it lacks the dual controls found on the USAF variants of the Phantom (C & E.)

The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20 mm in calibre. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection and rear of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. There are additional fuel tanks located in the upper-front of the wings and in the bottom of the fuselage, but they are a much smaller and thinner target, so the chances that they get hit are much lower in comparison. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20 mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase manoeuvrability, but as a side effect decrease energy retention. Even with improved manoeuvrability, the F-4S still does not pull hard enough to competitively dogfight most opponents, but it's good enough that you can potentially last in an extended engagement with a single enemy until an ally comes to your rescue. The sturdy construction of the F-4S' airframe even allows you to take a few hits from 20 mm rounds and remain in a flyable state.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges. The AIM-7F is able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3 km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30 km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3 km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you(r) (and your team's) survival. The Yak-141 on the other hand, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has a very low top speed for its BR; it can barely break the sound barrier, and suffers from atrocious energy retention. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1 on 1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded manoeuvrability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their manoeuvres out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a CCIP for them, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles in the convoys like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
** One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
** Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

IL-2M type 3

2023-07-28T09:51:47Z

U84733411: /* Pros and cons */ Added a mention of the weird, bugged behavior of the IL-2M Type 3's WEP in Cons.

{{About
|about= Soviet strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage= other versions
|link= IL-2 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=il-2m
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

The IL-2M type 3 is an improved version of the famous "Sturmovik" ground attack aircraft. It featured an "arrow wing" design, possessed leading edges that were swept back 15 degrees on the outer panels, giving it a better manoeuvrability and aerodynamic characteristics.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 1,400 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 387 || 371 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 49.2 || 50.3 || 6.1 || 6.0 || rowspan="2" | 800
|-
! Upgraded
| 430 || 409 || 46.9 || 47.9 || 11.4 || 8.6
|-
|}
While the IL-2M type 3 is still very slow in straight line like the other IL-2s, it retains a good handling characteristic similar to the [[IL-2 (1942)]]. This, combined with an addition of combat flaps, makes the plane very flexible and can take on almost every enemy at its BR.

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 447 || 418 || 270 || ~13 || ~13
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 320 || < 320 || < 320 || > 329
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

* 4 mm steel surrounding engine and frontal fuel tank
* 4 mm steel above pilot
* 5 mm steel underneath rear fuel tanks
* 6 mm steel surrounding pilot
* 6 mm steel underneath belly oil cooling system
* 6 mm steel in front of gunner*
* 6 mm steel disc behind propeller spinner
* 12 mm steel behind gunner*
* 64 mm bulletproof glass in front of pilot
* Self-sealing fuel tanks, with neutral gas pressurization system (1 in front of pilot's feet, 1 under pilot, 1 behind gunner*)

<nowiki>*</nowiki>Note that the gunner is rear-facing

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|VYa-23 (23 mm)|ShKAS (7.62 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 2 x 23 mm VYa-23 cannons, wing-mounted (150 rpg = 300 total)
* 2 x 7.62 mm ShKAS machine guns, wing-mounted (750 rpg = 1,500 total)

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}

{{main|AO-25M-1 (25 kg)|FAB-50 (50 kg)|FAB-100 (100 kg)|FAB-250M43 (250 kg)}}
{{main|RS-82|RBS-82|RS-132|RBS-132}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

* Without load
* 12 x 25 kg AO-25M-1 bombs (300 kg total)
* 4 x 50 kg FAB-50 bombs (200 kg total)
* 4 x 100 kg FAB-100 bombs (400 kg total)
* 4 x RS-82 rockets
* 4 x RBS-82 rockets
* 12 x 25 kg AO-25M-1 bombs + 4 x RS-82 rockets (300 kg total)
* 12 x 25 kg AO-25M-1 bombs + 4 x RBS-82 rockets (300 kg total)
* 4 x 50 kg FAB-50 bombs + 4 x RS-82 rockets (200 kg total)
* 4 x 50 kg FAB-50 bombs + 4 x RBS-82 rockets (200 kg total)
* 4 x 100 kg FAB-100 bombs + 4 x RS-82 rockets (400 kg total)
* 4 x 100 kg FAB-100 bombs + 4 x RBS-82 rockets (400 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M43 bombs (500 kg total)
* 4 x RS-132 rockets
* 4 x RBS-132 rockets
* 12 x 25 kg AO-25M-1 bombs + 4 x RS-132 rockets (300 kg total)
* 12 x 25 kg AO-25M-1 bombs + 4 x RBS-132 rockets (300 kg total)
* 4 x 50 kg FAB-50 bombs + 4 x RS-132 rockets (200 kg total)
* 4 x 50 kg FAB-50 bombs + 4 x RBS-132 rockets (200 kg total)
* 4 x 100 kg FAB-100 bombs + 4 x RS-132 rockets (400 kg total)
* 4 x 100 kg FAB-100 bombs + 4 x RBS-132 rockets (400 kg total)

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

{{main|Berezin UB (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 1 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine gun, dorsal turret (150 rpg)

== Usage in battles ==


The IL-2M type 3 is an attacker which excels at low altitude. You'll be flying close to the ground in order to hit your targets with your cannons and machine guns, so watch for obstacles and use the IL-2's phenomenal low-speed performance and tight turning circle to get out of harm's way, though beware of the mediocre roll rate and the weak acceleration. Give yourself time to build up a good amount of speed before going for another attack, otherwise, you'll struggle to climb away. Make note of what targets you can eliminate: light pillboxes can be destroyed by your cannons, and even extended MG fire from your 7.62 mm guns, but other pillboxes will be impossible to destroy with your guns, and bombs will need a direct hit. Likewise, light tanks and armoured cars can be destroyed with your guns, but medium tanks will need to be hit from the top or rear to penetrate the thicker armour, and heavy tanks are invulnerable unless you land a direct bomb or rocket hit.

The most interesting additions of the IL-2M type 3 is the wing redesign. An addition of combat flaps and more aerodynamically efficient wing design means that the plane is now more nimble than the single seat [[IL-2 (1942)]]. This makes the Type 3 capable of executing some tight turns to caught an enemy off guard, or attacking ground targets more efficiently.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Auto control available || Controllable Auto control available || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Numerous payload arrangements (24) including bombs and rockets of varying size, flexible ground attack options
* Sturdy airframe as with other versions of IL-2s
* Strong protection surrounds the pilot and engine
* Powerful 23 mm VYa cannons allows it to tackle any kinds of targets
* Redesigned wings with combat flaps significantly improve its turn rate, especially at higher speeds
* Rear gunner is equipped with a powerful 12.7 mm Berezin MG to ward off any chasers

'''Cons:'''

* Awfully slow top speed
* Heavy plane; horrible climb rate and sluggish acceleration
* Poor energy retention
* Tail section blocked most of rear gunner's firing range
* Rear gunner carries very limited ammunition
* WEP is currently bugged; reduces top speed and power instead of increasing.

== History ==


{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}|expand=true}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
On 21st July 1941 the lead designer of the IL-2 Sergey Ilyushin sent a request to the People's Minister of Aviation, calling for improvement of the IL-2 by upgrading the engine to a 1,675-HP M-82 and increasing the aircraft's armor. The request was extremely urgent, considering that the rapidly advancing German troops at the time threatened serial production of the engines then used on the IL-2. Several influential Party members also called for upgrading the IL-2's engine. Another crucial change, in conjunction with the engine, called for converting the aircraft into a two-seater, based on combat experience. The second crewman would mainly deal with protecting the rear section of the Sturmovik from aerial attack, making it, in the designer's opinion, "nearly invincible". An aft fuel tank, previously installed behind the pilot in the armored tub, was replaced with a gunner compartment under a stretched canopy, armed with a 12.7mm (.50-cal) UBT machine gun with 280 rounds of ammunition. The gunner position, just like the pilot's, was well armored.

Once the prototype was tested, all test pilots concluded that flight performance of the new variant was worse than that of the earlier IL-2 AM-38 variant; however, no changes in overall behavior were noted, the armor was very effective, and no shortcomings that made flying dangerous were uncovered. Therefore, the new prototype was accepted for serial production.
{{Navigation-End}}

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=il-2m Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/195739-ilyushin-il-2m-mstitel-34avenger34/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Ilyushin}}
{{USSR attackers}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-07-17T22:49:22Z

U84733411: Added more to the survivability and armour section (Forgot to mention the wing fuel tanks, further specified fuselage fuel tank locations, mentioned lack of dual controls.) Also generally cleaned up the sentence structure, paragraphing, and 'flow'.

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]].

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armour plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilot and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take multiple hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain either airborne or even still able to fight back. Higher calibre guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. As with the F-4J, the second pilot in the back of the cockpit cannot take control of the aircraft if the first is knocked out, as it lacks the dual controls found on the USAF variants of the Phantom (C & E.)

The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20 mm in calibre. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection and rear of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. There are additional fuel tanks located in the upper-front of the wings and in the bottom of the fuselage, but they are a much smaller and thinner target, so the chances that they get hit are much lower in comparison. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20 mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase manoeuvrability, but as a side effect decrease energy retention. Even with improved manoeuvrability, the F-4S still does not pull hard enough to competitively dogfight most opponents, but it's good enough that you can potentially last in an extended engagement with a single enemy until an ally comes to your rescue. The sturdy construction of the F-4S' airframe even allows you to take hits from multiple 20 mm rounds and remain in a flyable state.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges. The AIM-7F is able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3 km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30 km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3 km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you(r) (and your team's) survival. The Yak-141 on the other hand, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has a very low top speed for its BR; it can barely break the sound barrier, and suffers from atrocious energy retention. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1 on 1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded manoeuvrability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their manoeuvres out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a CCIP for them, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles in the convoys like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
** One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
** Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-07-17T10:49:26Z

U84733411: /* Survivability and armour */ Replaced rounds with guns, another small oversight and a typo. Last edit for the 'night' (I made all of this at 3:30AM and it's now 4:49AM lmao)

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]].

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armor plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilots and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take multiple hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain either airborne or even still able to fight back. Higher caliber guns however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20mm in caliber. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase maneuverability, but as a side effect decrease energy retention. Even with improved maneuverability, the F-4S still does not pull hard enough to competitively dogfight most opponents, but it's good enough that you can potentially last in an extended engagement with a single enemy until an ally comes to your rescue. The sturdy construction of the F-4S' airframe even allows you to take hits from multiple 20mm rounds and remain in a flyable state.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges, the AIM-7F being able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you(r) (and your team's) survival. The Yak-141 on the other hand, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has a very low top speed for its BR; it can barely break the sound barrier, and suffers from atrocious energy retention. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1 on 1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded maneuverability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their maneuvers out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a CCIP for them, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles in the convoys like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
** One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
** Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-07-17T10:23:42Z

U84733411: /* Suspended armament */ Added note that the gun pod and drop tank can't be brought together due to sharing hardpoint 1

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]].

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armor plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilots and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take multiple hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain either airborne or even still able to fight back. Higher caliber rounds however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20mm in caliber. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
<nowiki>*</nowiki>20mm Mk 11 Mod 5 gun pod and 600 gal drop tank cannot be carried at the same time due to sharing hardpoint 1
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase maneuverability, but as a side effect decrease energy retention. Even with improved maneuverability, the F-4S still does not pull hard enough to competitively dogfight most opponents, but it's good enough that you can potentially last in an extended engagement with a single enemy until an ally comes to your rescue. The sturdy construction of the F-4S' airframe even allows you to take hits from multiple 20mm rounds and remain in a flyable state.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges, the AIM-7F being able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you(r) (and your team's) survival. The Yak-141 on the other hand, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has a very low top speed for its BR; it can barely break the sound barrier, and suffers from atrocious energy retention. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1 on 1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded maneuverability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their maneuvers out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a CCIP for them, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles in the convoys like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
** One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
** Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-07-17T10:17:02Z

U84733411: Removed "30mm" from Survivability and Armor; minor oversight.

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]].

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armor plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilots and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take multiple hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain either airborne or even still able to fight back. Higher caliber rounds however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20mm in caliber. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase maneuverability, but as a side effect decrease energy retention. Even with improved maneuverability, the F-4S still does not pull hard enough to competitively dogfight most opponents, but it's good enough that you can potentially last in an extended engagement with a single enemy until an ally comes to your rescue. The sturdy construction of the F-4S' airframe even allows you to take hits from multiple 20mm rounds and remain in a flyable state.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges, the AIM-7F being able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you(r) (and your team's) survival. The Yak-141 on the other hand, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has a very low top speed for its BR; it can barely break the sound barrier, and suffers from atrocious energy retention. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1 on 1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded maneuverability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their maneuvers out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a CCIP for them, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles in the convoys like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
** One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
** Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

F-4S Phantom II

2023-07-17T10:12:49Z

U84733411: Added information to the Surivability and armor, along with additional info in Usage in battles (what the biggest threats are, a suggestion on how to approach them, + base bombing & ground targets.) Added some points to the Pros and cons (mainly cons.)

{{About
|about = premium American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-4 Phantom II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-4s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|StoreImage_{{PAGENAME}}_004.jpg}}
|store=12048
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]].

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 12,192 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,080 || 2,058 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 26.5 || 27.4 || 155.0 || 145.2 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,224 || 2,140 || 25.5 || 26.0 || 217.6 || 185.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 1,458 || 618 || 463 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 810 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric J79-GE-10 || 2
| colspan="2" | 14,205 kg || colspan="2" | 408 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 1,750 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,964 kg || 18,047 kg || 20,070 kg || 27,058 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,250 kgf || 8,159 kgf
| 1.02 || 0.90 || 0.81 || 0.60
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 5,311 kgf (1,458 km/h) || 10,361 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.30 || 1.15 || 1.03 || 0.77
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

While the F-4S completely lacks any armor plating or ballistic glass, meaning that the pilots and internal systems are exposed to damage from even small arms fire, the airframe itself is relatively sturdy thanks to the upgrades it got to better handle high-G sustained turns, and can take multiple hits from opposing aircraft using 20 x 102 mm Vulcan or 20 x 110 mm USN rounds and remain either airborne or even still able to fight back. Higher caliber rounds however such as the BK-27 found on the Tornados, and the 30mm GSh-30-1 on the MiG-29 have a higher chance of severely crippling your performance or outright destroying the aircraft. The fuel tanks are self-sealing, but generally won't be able to stop a fire from igniting due to every aircraft at the F-4S' BR using guns that are at least 20mm in caliber. They also take up a lot of space in the midsection of the Phantom, making shots to the fuselage potentially fatal. You have an extinguisher to put out engine fires, but effectiveness may vary depending on the severity of damage to the rest of the airframe, along with your airspeed.

With only 60 countermeasures available to use, the F-4S is rather limited in its defense against missiles compared to its peers and opponents, and bringing chaff with the mixed loadout halves your effective amount to just 30.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** Without offensive armament
** 60 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="15" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-4C_Phantom_II.png]]</div>
|-
! [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|20 mm Mk 11 mod 5]] cannons (750 rpg)
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| 6 || 3 || || || || 6 || || || || 3 || 6
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| 3 || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 || 3
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| 2 || 2 || || || || 3 || || || || 2 || 2
|-
! [[Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || || || || 1 || || || || || 1
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 38 || 57 || || || || 57 || || || || 57 || 38
|-
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
| 12 || 12 || || || || 12 || || || || 12 || 12
|-
! [[AIM-7F Sparrow]] missiles
| || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || 1 ||
|-
! [[AIM-9H Sidewinder]] missiles
| || || 2 || || || || || || 2 || ||
|-
! 600 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,257 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 3,000 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Sparrows on hardpoints 2/10 cannot be carried in conjunction with Sidewinders on hardpoints 3/9 respectively
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon (750 rpg)
* 1 x 600 gal drop tank
* 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 48 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 190 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 12 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 1 x 20 mm Mk 11 mod 5 cannon + 4 x AIM-7F Sparrow missiles + 4 x AIM-9H Sidewinder missiles + 8 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 3 x Mk 79 Mod 1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


Being a slightly upgraded F-4J, the F-4S retains many of its predecessor's defining characteristics.

The main difference between the two is the F-4S' leading edge wing slats. These greatly increase maneuverability, but as a side effect decrease energy retention. Even with improved maneuverability, the F-4S still does not pull hard enough to competitively dogfight most opponents, but it's good enough that you can potentially last in an extended engagement with a single enemy until an ally comes to your rescue. The sturdy construction of the F-4S' airframe even allows you to take hits from multiple 20mm rounds and remain in a flyable state.

The most powerful aspect of the F-4S is its weaponry. For IR-guided missiles, it carries AIM-9Hs. Even though they have mediocre turn performance (max overload 18G), their respectable range and long guidance time makes them ideal for picking off inattentive players or AI planes. The crown jewel of the F-4S' arsenal however is the AIM-7F. With effective usage of the Pulse Doppler and ACM modes, the F-4S can confidently go into battle with an all-Sparrow loadout and not feel limited at closer engagement ranges, the AIM-7F being able to reliably hit targets from a minimum of 3km in head ons, all the way out to a maximum of 25-30km in good conditions with Pulse Doppler active (any further than that will require some luck.) Head on snapshots from less than 3km can be done, but you'll be pushing the limits of both your radar's lock speed and the Sparrow's 25G pull limit.

Your biggest threats will be the F-14A / B, the MiG-29, and the Yak-141. All three gravely outclass you in BVR combat; the F-14s due to their massive, highly advanced radar and long-range Phoenix missiles, while the MiG-29 and Yak-141 carry the R-27ER, arguably the best SARH missile currently in War Thunder. The F-14s and MiG-29 also have you massively beat in a dogfight; both being able to comfortably sit inside your turning circle and either shoot at you with their guns or fire off a missile, so catching these opponents off guard or while they're distracted will aid in you(r) (and your team's) survival. The Yak-141 on the other hand, while boasting phenomenal acceleration, has a very low top speed for its BR; it can barely break the sound barrier, and suffers from atrocious energy retention. You will have no issue beating the 141 in a 1 on 1 dogfight thanks to your upgraded maneuverability, just as long as you remember that the 141 is a VTOL aircraft, and may get creative with their maneuvers out of desperation.

Base bombing is, as expected for the Phantoms, and no exception to the F-4S, a completely viable strategy thanks to its impressive bomb load. It also has some merit in attacking ground targets, as it can carry a ludicrous amount of Mighty Mouse rockets (Up to a maximum of 247 if you wish to forgo the gun pod) that are very easy to aim thanks to having a CCIP for them, and you can still carry 4 Sparrows to have a strong weapon against enemy aircraft. Avoid SPAA vehicles in the convoys like the plague, as getting too close may spell an untimely return to the hangar, and the lack of guided munitions means you have to get close to or within their range to deal with them, either with bombs or rockets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful pulse-Doppler radar
* HMD allows significant off-boresight tracking for both the AIM-7F and AIM-9H
* Can carry up to 8 air-to-air missiles
** One of the best SARH missiles at 11.3
* Can take off and land on aircraft carrier
* A wide range of suspended armaments, suitable for any playstyle
** Can carry enough bombs to destroy a base without significantly affecting its flight performance

'''Cons:'''

* Doesn't have an internal gun
* The external gun pod negatively affects flight performance
* Can't carry a gun pod and drop tank at the same time as they share the same hardpoint
* Quite large and heavy compared to other fighters at its rank
* Lack of guided munitions limits its potential in Ground Battles
* 60 countermeasures is mediocre in uptiers, which this aircraft sees extremely often

== History ==


The F-4S is a variant of the F-4 Phantom II, a twin-engine, all-weather jet fighter-bomber originally developed by McDonnell Douglas (now part of Boeing) for the United States Navy in the 1950s. The F-4S was the final production version of the F-4, and saw extensive service during the Cold War and in various conflicts around the world. The F-4S was an upgraded F-4J, with slats and a better turn speed.

The F-4S was developed in response to the need for an advanced fighter-bomber that could operate in all weather conditions and perform a wide range of missions, including air-to-air combat, ground attack, and reconnaissance. It featured improved avionics, a more powerful engine, and upgraded weapons systems compared to earlier variants of the F-4.

One of the F-4S's most significant upgrades was its advanced radar system, which could track multiple targets at once and provide the pilot with a clear picture of the battlefield. It was also equipped with a more sophisticated weapons delivery system, which allowed it to carry a wider variety of bombs and missiles, including the AIM-7 Sparrow and AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles, as well as multiple types of unguided bombs and rockets.

The F-4S saw extensive service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. It was used in a variety of conflicts, including the Vietnam War, the Gulf War, and the Gulf of Sidra incident.

Despite its success in combat, the F-4S was eventually phased out of service in the late 1980s and early 1990s, as newer and more advanced fighter aircraft were introduced into the US military fleet. Today, several examples of the F-4S can be found on display in aviation museums and military bases around the world, serving as a reminder of the aircraft's important role in military history.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-4s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|IdPkE_xhUw0|'''Finally A Worthy Premium? - F-4S Phantom II''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8133-development-pre-order-f-4s-phantom-ii-pack-en|[Devblog] Pre-order: F-4S Phantom II pack]]

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

Airborne radars

2023-05-23T23:42:27Z

U84733411: /* Period */ fixed a misspell of one

[[File:Radar Engagement.jpg|x400px|border|right]]
==Overview==
'''Airborne Radars''' were added to the game in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]]. Airborne radars are found on aircraft at both low and high ranks, if an aircraft is equipped with radar then a radar display will be present in the right portion of a player's screen, as well as a compass displaying the player's current heading and the directions to detected targets at the top of the screen.

There are two main types of airborne radar in the game, target detection (search) radars and target tracking radars. Target detection radars will detect aircraft (both friendly and hostile) and display them as a "blip" on the radar display, it will also place a triangle on the compass showing what direction the detected aircraft is in. Target tracking radars are more advanced; they allow the player to "lock-on" to a target. Once a target has been locked on to, a box will appear around it on the HUD and a read-out will provide the distance to the target and the closing speed between the player's aircraft and the target. Depending on the aircraft being flown tracking radars may also be able to provide an accurate firing lead indicator, once the player closes to within approximately 0.7 km.

==Airborne radar controls==
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="3" | Airborne Radar Controls
|-
! Control name
! Default Keybind (PC keyboard & mouse)
! Description
|-
| Switch Radar/IRST search on/off || Alt + R || Turns the vehicle's search radar on or off
|-
| Change Radar/IRST mode || Unbound || Switches the radar between search mode and tracking mode for multi-mode radars, or normal and pulse-doppler mode for applicable radars
|-
| Change Radar/IRST search mode || Unbound || Toggles between the radar's search modes e.g. narrow scan or wide scan
|-
| Change Radar/IRST scope scale || Unbound || Changes the range scale of the radar display
|-
| Select Radar/IRST target to lock || Alt + T || Selects which target on the display to lock on to
|-
| Lock Radar/IRST target on || Alt + F || Locks onto the selected or nearest target on radar display or turns tracking radar on
|-
|}

==Airborne radars user interface==
===Basic user interface===
[[File:Aircraft_Radar_HUD_Labelled.jpg|thumb|400px|right|The HUD for aircraft equipped with Radar]]
As previously mentioned, aircraft equipped with radars can be identified by the presence of the radar display and compass on the HUD (see image to the right).

Below the compass rose is a small arrow which displays the aircraft's current heading. Targets detected by the radar will also have their bearing displayed on the compass as a triangle.

One or two radar scopes will be present in the right hand portion of the screen; they are discussed in detail later in the article. If the radar is experiencing surface clutter interference then an icon (visible in the image to the right) will be present next to the power indicator, consisting of two arrows and a series of bars. The number of bars illuminated indicates how severe surface clutter is (one bar means minor interference, four bars means major interference); if the aircraft has two radars activated then each one will have its own surface clutter indicator.

If the radar has been deactivated, a separate icon will be displayed instead of the radar display.

There are several different types of radar target which can appear on the radar display and compass. A basic radar target will appear as a bar on the radar display and a triangle on the compass. The radar target which is selected will appear with a vertical line either side of it; and the radar target which is locked on to will appear with a box around it. Some radars are fitted with Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems, these radars will display friendly radar targets with a horizontal line above them.

[[File:Radar_Target_Types.png|thumb|600px|left|The different types of targets.]]{{break}}

===Radar display types===
====Plan Position Indicator (PPI)====
[[File:Radar PPI Labelled.jpg|thumb|400px|right|The plan position indicator radar display]]
The default display is a "Plan Position Indicator" (PPI) type display. It is in the shape of a sector and represents a top-down view of the area in front of the aircraft. The radar is located in the bottom centre of the display; the distance a target is from the centre point shows how far away it is, while its angle from the centre line shows its azimuth.

{{Notice|The PPI can display the range and azimuth of a target, but not its elevation}}

When the radar is turned on, a bar representing the current scan angle sweeps back and forth, radially, about the centre point. A series of four concentric range rings can be used to determine how far away the detected targets are (to get the distance between rings divide the range scale by 4), and a series of bars (at 15-degree angles) help tell the azimuth of detected targets. If a radar has an azimuth scan angle of less than 180 degrees then the display is still a semicircle.

The readout to the left of the scope shows the azimuth and elevation scan angles, while the readout to the right shows the currently selected range scale.

In the image to the right there are three targets, all approximately 4.5 km away from the player. One target is at an azimuth of 0° (directly in front of the player) while one is at an azimuth of approximately -30° (30° to the left of the player), and one is at an azimuth of approximately +30° (30° to the right of the player). It is not possible to tell the target's elevation difference from the player using only the PPI.

====C-scope====
[[File:Radar C-Scope Labelled.jpg|thumb|400px|right|The C-scope radar display]]
In addition to the PPI some aircraft have access to a C-scope type display (positioned underneath the PPI). The C-scope displays the same radar targets as the PPI, but in a different format. Whereas a PPI is a top-down view, the C-scope is forwards-looking. It is a rectangular display where how far from the azimuth centre line a target is shows its azimuth and how far from the elevation centre line a target is shows its elevation.

{{Notice|The C-scope can display the azimuth and elevation of a target, but not its range}}

In addition to the azimuth and elevation centre lines there are two other horizontal lines on the display, these show the minimum and maximum elevation scan angles of the radar. It should be noted that the degree values shown to the right of the C-scope are the minimum and maximum elevation angles of the scope, not the radar.

In the image to the right there are three targets, all slightly below the player (they are below the elevation centre line). One target is at an azimuth of 0° (directly in front of the player) while one is at an azimuth of approximately -30° (30° to the left of the player), and one is at an azimuth of approximately +30° (30° to the right of the player). It is not possible to tell the target's range from the player using only the PPI.

By using a combination of the PPI and C-scope you can work out the range, azimuth and elevation of individual targets.

====B-Scope====
[[File:Radar B-Scope Labelled.jpg|thumb|300px|right|The B-scope radar display]]

An alternative radar display (instead of the PPI) is available in the form of a "B-Scope" type display. It can be enabled via the "Use rectangular radar indicator" setting. It is a square display providing a 2-D "top-down" representation of space, the vertical axis represents the range to the target and the horizontal axis represents the azimuth (angle) of the target. The maximum and minimum azimuth scan angles are displayed in the top corners of the display, as is the range setting. A series of four range bars can be used to determine how far away detected targets are, and vertical bars can be used to determine what direction the target is in. When the radar is turned on a vertical bar representing the current scan angle moves horizontally, back and forth, across the display.

==Radar operation==
===Basic radar operation===
[[File:Aircraft_Radar_Angles_Diagram.jpg|thumb|400px|right|Diagram showing the scan angles of a radar]]
When turned on, radars will scan a pyramid or cone-shaped area in front of the player's aircraft (illustrated in the image to the right). Radars can only detect targets which fall within their scanning area, the size and shape of which varies depending on the model of radar. Each radar has a maximum and minimum azimuth scan angle (how far to each side it will scan); and a maximum and minimum elevation scan angle (how far up and down it will scan). Radars also have a minimum detection range (typically 150 - 300 m), below which targets will not be detected (not that you should need a radar to see an aircraft that close).

As with other characteristics, the maximum detection range varies greatly between radars (from as little as 4 km, to in excess of 40 km). Targets are not guaranteed to be detected at the radar's maximum detection range. The range at which a target is detected will depend on how much radar energy it reflects back to the radar, which is in turn determined by its Radar Cross-Section (RCS). Generally larger aircraft have a larger RCS so will be detected at greater ranges; for example the [[AI Mk. X]] radar (fitted to the [[Sea Venom FAW 20]]) can detect the large [[G5N1]] bomber at its maximum detection range of 14 km, however, can only detect the much smaller [[He 162 A-1]] at approximately 9 - 9.5 km.

When a radar detects a target, it appears as a "blip" on the radar display. Its position will not be updated until the radar detects it again (usually on the next scan, as indicated by the sweeping bar). When the target is re-detected, its old blip is removed and a new one plotted at the location it was re-detected at. If enough time elapses without a target being re-detected (either due to the target now being outside of the radar's scanning area, or simply the radar not scanning fast enough) then the target's blip will fade and disappear from the radar display. Likewise after a period of not being detected a target which has been locked onto will be lost.

===Radar range scale===
Some radars allow for the range scale of the radar scope to be changed, in order to change the range scale a key needs to be bound to the "Change radar scope scale" control. The currently selected range scale is shown on the radar display, if the range scale is changed then the display will stay the same size, but the targets will be placed on the display according to the new scale. '''It is worth noting that the default range scale may be less than the radar's maximum detection range''', so you may need to increase the range scale in order to make full use of your radar. Some radars can be set to a range scale far in excess of the radar's maximum detection range; targets will not be detected outside of a radar's maximum detection range, regardless of range scale setting.

===Radar search mode===
Some radars allow for different search modes to be activated. The default search mode on radars usually (although not always) makes use of the radar's full scanning area. While this is useful for detecting targets in a wide area this can come with the drawback of each scan taking longer to complete (as the radar has to scan a larger area), meaning that targets are updated less frequently on the radar display. Some radars allow the operator to change the search mode so that the radar only scans a smaller area, this means that targets can be updated on the radar more often, but has the drawback of targets only being detectable in a more narrow area in front of the player's aircraft. This ability is primarily useful for keeping track of fast moving or manoeuvring targets, where the slower scan time associated with a full scan, would make tracking the movement of such a target difficult. When the radar mode is changed the PPI will remain the same size / shape, but two hard lines will appear indicating the new scanning limits; rang rings and azimuth bars will not be drawn outside of the lines. In order to change radar scanning mode, a key needs to be bound to the "Change radar search mode" control (located under the "Weaponry" heading of the aircraft controls menu).

{{Notice|The modes available vary depending on the specific radar. Some radars change the azimuth scanning angles, while others change the elevation scanning angles.}}

===Clutter===
{{Notice|Surface clutter is not present in Arcade Battles.}}
Radars operate by emitting radio waves which then reflect off of targets and return to the radar. Unfortunately the radio waves also reflect off the ground, and other objects, leading to unwanted returns known as clutter. The type of clutter modelled in War Thunder is surface clutter (radar returns from the ground or sea).

In-game surface clutter is modelled as a green haze covering areas of the PPI, the more severe the ground clutter the more intense the haze gets. Anything more than mild surface clutter is usually enough to prevent the radar from picking up actual targets in the area the clutter is affecting. Likewise clutter can prevent tracking radars from effectively tracking targets.

As surface clutter is caused by reflections from the ground it is more pronounced when the radar is pointing downwards, and as such can prevent you from detecting targets which are below you in some situations. Different radars are affected by ground clutter to different extents, usually more modern radars are affected less than earlier ones.

===Detecting/tracking ground targets===
Some search radars and tracking radars are capable of detecting and locking on to ground targets. For these radars ground targets appear on the PPI the same as air targets, and can be locked on to the same way. This functionality is not massively useful, but can come in handy when trying to find player controlled tanks to kill. Ground clutter also limits how effective these radars are at finding ground targets. See individual radar pages to find out if they can detect ground targets.

===Air Combat Maneuvering (ACM)===
Some radars feature a so called Air Combat Maneuvering Mode which will scan for a target in a narrow cone and a reduced range. If a target is found, the radar will switch automatically to Tracking Mode and lock on the target which was just found. The radar on the F-14A features three ACM modes which have different search rectangles for different situations.
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
File:ACM cone.jpg|ACM mode with a centered small rectangle search area.
File:ACM vertical centered.jpg|ACM mode with avertical centered search area.
File:ACM Mode vertical high.jpg|ACM mode with a vertical upwards looking search area.
</gallery>

==Radar scan patterns==
{{Notice|This topic is included for those who want a better understanding of how different radars scan for targets, it is not essential knowledge, but may be useful.}}
===Raster Scan===
[[File:Radar_Raster_Scan.jpg|thumb|400px|left|A 4 bar, one-way, bi-directional raster scan pattern; the green square represents the radar beam.]]{{break}}
Most search radars in the game use what is known as a bi-directional raster scan (see image to the right). The radar beam starts in the top corner of the scanning area and moves horizontally until it reaches the other side of the scanning area; it then drops down and moves horizontally in the other direction until it reaches the original side of the scanning area. The process repeats until the radar beam has reached the bottom corner of the scanning area. At this point the beam will do one of two things; if the radar uses a one-way raster scan then the beam will move directly upwards from its finishing position until it reaches the top corner of the scanning area, where it starts the process again. If it is a two-way raster scan then when the beam reaches the bottom corner its movement will reverse and it will work its way back up to the top of the scanning area, following the path it just took in reverse.

The raster scan pattern allows the radar to identify targets on different elevations. Each sweep the radar makes on a different elevation is known as a bar; for example the scan pattern shown in the image to the right has 4 bars as the radar completes 4 scans in the process of covering the scan area. The number of bars in the scan, and the height of each bar (measured in degrees) width of the scan in the elevation axis; the width of the scan in the azimuth axis is determined by how far to each side the radar scans.

{{Notice|The PPI shows the radar sweeping over each bar, so on a 4 bar scan a target on the PPI may only be refreshed once every 4 sweeps (due to the radar sweeping over a bar the target is not located in).}}

If you know the number of bars in the radar's scan pattern, the height of each bar, and the vertical offset (more on this later) then you can calculate the minimum and maximum elevation scanning angles of the radar (how far up and down the radar see). You start by calculating the elevation width of the radar as follows:

<code>elevation width = number of bars * height of each bar</code>

At this point it is tempting to just divide the elevation width by 2 and conclude that the resulting number is how far off the elevation centre line in each direction the radar can see (e.g. for a elevation width of 30° the radar can see 15° up and 15° down), however this is not always the case. Some radars have more bars above the elevation centre line than below it (or vice versa), that is to say they can look further up than they can down or vice versa. This gives rise to the concept of a "vertical offset" (measured in degrees), i.e. how far upwards (or downwards) the bars are shifted from being evenly distributed either side of the elevation centre line.

When this is factored in we get the following equations for working out the minimum and maximum elevation limits of the radar:

<code>
maximum elevation angle = (elevation width / 2) + vertical offset

minimum elevation angle = (-1 * (elevation width / 2)) + vertical offset
</code>

For example if we take the [[AN/APS-21]] radar. Its scan patter uses 15 bars, each 2° in height, giving us an elevation width of 30°; with a vertical offset of +5°. If we put this into the equations above we get the following:

<code>
maximum elevation angle = (30 / 2) + 5 = '''20°'''

minimum elevation angle = (-1 *(30 / 2)) + 5 = '''-10°'''
</code>

This means the AN/APS-21 radar can detect targets up to 20° above the player and 10° below the player.

===Conical Scan===
[[File:Radar_Conical_Scan.jpg|thumb|400px|left|A conical scan pattern; the green circle represents the radar beam.]]{{break}}
Tracking radars in the game use what is known as a conical scan, instead of a raster scan. In a conical scan the radar beam rotates around a central axis, with a few degrees offset from the centre. The result of this is that the radar scans a narrow cone shaped area in front of the aircraft. The rotation of the beam also means the radar to tell where the target is within the cone, allowing the radar to effectively track the target.

===Continuously updating radars===
[[File:Aircraft_Radar_Constantly_Updated_Radar.jpg|thumb|250px|left|An example of a non-scanning radar, notice how the whole scan area is illuminated at once]]{{break}}
The German Lichtenstein family of radars (the radars found on German WW2 planes) are unique compared to other radars currently in the game, in that they do not scan for targets. Instead, they constantly emit a cone of radar energy and detect the return. This gives them the advantage of having the radar constantly updating (instead of updating only when the radar scans over a target). However, as a trade-off, these radars have a poor range (only 4 or 5 km) and a narrow scanning area. When these radars are active, instead of seeing a sweeping line the entire scanning area of the radar is illuminated and radar blips update continuously. An example of this can be seen in the image to the right.

==Types of airborne radars==
The two main types of radar are target detection radars and target tracking radars. Target detection radars are found on vehicles from rank 1, however, the more advanced target tracking radars are reserved for high-rank vehicles. Vehicles are typically equipped with target tracking radars in addition to target detection radars, with the two working in tandem.

===Target detection radars===
Target detection radars, also known as search radars, have no tracking ability and simply display detected targets on the radar display and compass. The basic operation of target detection radars has been discussed previously in this article. Target detection radars are available from rank 1, radars found at higher ranks have much better characteristics (larger scanning area, better range, etc.).

===Target tracking radars===
[[File:Aircraft_Radars_Target_Tracking_Labelled.jpg|thumb|400px|right|The HUD when a target is being tracked. '''Note:''' Lead indicator is no longer available for the Javelin.]]
Target tracking radars are fitted to some aircraft in addition to target detection radars. They typically have a short range compared to the aircraft's search radar (hence a search radar is equipped to find targets at long ranges), however, they have the ability to track and "lock-on" to targets. Tracking radars typically have different scanning areas than the search radar equipped to the aircraft; when an aircraft is equipped with a tracking radar, its tracking area is shown as a darker area within the radar display (as seen in the image to the right).

A target can only be locked onto if it is within the tracking radars maximum range and search area (the dark section of the radar display). Once a target is locked on to, a box will appear around it, as well as around its icon on the radar display and compass (to differentiate the locked target from other radar targets). An accurate distance to the target will be displayed next to the locked target on the HUD, as well as an accurate closing speed (speed will read negative if the target is moving away from you). If your aircraft supports a lead indicator, then an accurate firing lead indicator will appear once you close to within 500-700 m of the target.

In order to maintain a lock on the target, you need to keep it within the tracking radars maximum range and tracking area; if the target is not detected by the tracking radar in too long the lock will be lost.

=====Obtaining and maintaining a radar lock=====
[[File:Radar_Lockon_Box.jpg|thumb|400px|right|The "lock-on box"]]
There are two ways to lock on to a target when using a tracking radar. When a search radar has detected targets which are within the tracking radar's tracking area one of them will be selected (have a vertical line either side of it). You can change the selected target by pressing the "Select radar target to lock on" key, when the "Lock radar target on" key is pressed it will turn on the tracking radar and automatically attempt to lock on to the selected target. Alternatively you can press the "Lock radar target on" or "Change radar mode" key (depending on radar type) to turn on (or switch to) the tracking radar. When this happens the tracking radar will begin a conical scan pointing directly forwards; a flashing green square will appear on the screen (image to the right). If you place the box over an aircraft then the tracking radar will try to lock on to it; note that surface clutter and other factors may inhibit the radar from locking on. The target you want to lock on to using this method then the target should be within the range limits listed to the right of the box.

Like with real radars, multiple targets in close proximity to each other can confuse the tracker. If a target is locked and another aircraft flies past it, it is possible for the tracker to lose the lock on the target, or even transition the lock onto the other aircraft (something which also happens to real radar systems). In the previously described scenarios (or depending on how the target is moving relative to the player's aircraft), it is also possible for the target lead indicator to become temporarily inaccurate.

In order for a radar lock to be maintained, the target needs to be kept within the tracking radar's tracking area. If the target leaves this area for more than a short period of time, the lock will be lost.

===Multi-mode radars===
Some radars such as the AN/APQ-100 (found on the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom II]]) are what are known as multi-mode radars, the same radar antenna functions as both a search and tracking radar, although not at the same time. These radars can be toggled between search and tracking mode by pressing the "Change radar mode" key. Overall they function pretty much the same as aircraft with independent search and tracking radars, however as the antenna is being used for both searching and tracking it cannot do both at the same time. If you are tracking a target then you will lose search functionality.

'''Note:''' The [[RP-5]] does not count as a multi-mode radar as although it is responsible for both searching and tracking it does so using two separate antennas.

===Track While Scan (TWS)===
Some modern radars such as the AN/AWG-9 (found on the [[F-14A Early]]) and PS-46/A (fitted to the [[JA37C]]) feature a "Track While Scan" (TWS) mode, in which targets can be tracked while the radar simultaneously scans for other targets. One big advantage of such a radar is that tracking while in TWS mode doesn't trigger a spike in the enemies' radar warning receivers, because the radar intensity is lower. It can track multiple targets at the same time, making it a very powerful tool in conjunction with other systems such as [[Air-to-air_missiles#Active_Radar_Homing_.28ARH.29_missiles|active radar-homing]] and [[Air-to-air_missiles#Slaving_the_seeker_to_an_aircraft_tracking_radar|radar-slavable]] missiles. However, a hard lock is still required to be able to use [[Air-to-air_missiles#Semi-Active_Radar_Homing_.28SARH.29_missiles|semi-active radar-homing missiles]].

===Radar gunsights===
[[File:Radar_Gunsight.jpg|thumb|200px|right|The indicator present when a radar gunsight is fitted]]
Radar gunsights are fitted to a number of aircraft in the game, these aircraft can be identified by the presence of the radar gunsight indicator (see image to the right). A radar gunsight is very similar to a regular gyroscopic gunsight, however whereas on a regular gunsight the pilot would have to manually dial in a range, radar gunsights use a small ranging radar to automatically input the range for the target the pilot is pointing his guns at.

In game radar gunsights will automatically adjust the aircraft's gyroscopic gunsight in the cockpit view, making it more accurate. They are of no real use in third person view, aside from perhaps being able to tell you if there is a target in front of you when flying in heavy cloud for example.

You can turn the radar gunsight on and off by pressing the "Lock radar target on" key.

{{Youtube
|url = 0AbkWMi0ZJ4
|caption = Radar gunsight tutorial by TeaRex
|align = left
|size = 300
}}
{{break}}

==Factors affecting radar performance==
There are a number of factors which affect the performance of airborne radars. The details of different radars can be found on their individual pages, this section explains what the performance characteristics mean and what their significance is.

===Search radars===
====Maximum detection range====
The maximum range of the radar is the maximum theoretically possible distance at which a search radar can detect a target. It is unlikely however that aircraft will be detected until they are much closer than this range. The range at which a target will actually be detected depends on its radar cross section (in basic terms how big it is), and other factors such as surface clutter.

====Base detection range====
This is the range at which a target can be detected regardless of how small its radar cross section is '''before taking into account surface clutter and other factors'''. If the radar is not being affected by surface clutter or you are playing arcade battles (where surface clutter is not modelled) then this is effectively the range at which you are guaranteed to detect a target aircraft, no matter how small it is; larger aircraft may be detected further away than this range.

{{Notice|In Realistic and Simulator Battles where surface clutter is modelled, targets may not be detected until they are much closer than this range|!}}

====Minimum detection range====
Radars have a minimum range, at which they can function, targets closer than the minimum range cannot be detected by the radar.

====Azimuth scan limits====
The azimuth scan limits are how far to each side the radar can scan. For example, scan angles of ±75° means that the radar can see targets up to 75° to the left and 75° to the right.

====Elevation scan limits====
The elevation scan limits are how far to up and down in total, the radar might take multiple scans to cover its entire elevation range, see the [[#Raster Scan|raster scan section]] for more information.

====Period====
The period of the radar is how long it takes to complete one scan of its entire scanning area. This will take multiple individual sweeps, if the scan pattern has more than one raster bar.

===Tracking radars===
====Maximum tracking range====
The maximum tracking range is the maximum range at which a radar can maintain a track on a target.

====Minimum tracking range====
Tracking radars have a minimum range, below which they are unable to track targets. You cannot initiate tracks on targets closer than the minimum range, and if a tracked target comes closer than the minimum range the track will be lost.

====Azimuth tracking limits====
The azimuth tracking limits determine how far to each side the radar can track targets.

====Elevation tracking limits====
The elevation tracking limits determine how far up and down the radar can track targets.

==Airborne radars tips and ticks==
Useful information to know about airborne radars:

* If your radar is damaged (by gunfire or otherwise) you will not be able to turn it on until it is repaired
* Left and right, up and down, on the radar display are relative to your aircraft, so if you roll the aircraft it can affect where targets are drawn on the radar display.
* Consider changing the default target locking key from Ctrl+ F to stop yourself from accidentally breaking your flaps if you mis-press the key combo.
* Due to the raster scan pattern, targets may not be updated on every radar sweep, if you need more rapid updates try narrowing the search area.

=== Notching a Pulse-Doppler radar ===
[[File:Notching.png|thumb|Top down view of a player getting notched by their target.]]
Some radars have the ability to operate in "pulse-Doppler" mode, which analyses the [[wikipedia:Doppler_effect|Doppler effect]] on returned radar pulses to determine an object's velocity, and thus identify and track targets. In order for the radar to lock a target, it needs to have a significant Doppler shift (difference in velocity compared to the surroundings). This, however, cannot happen when the target is moving perpendicularly to the radar, as the target is not moving towards or away from the radar with a meaningful difference in speed. This perpendicular movement is called "notching" and is the main way to defeat a pulse-Doppler radar. The simplest way to do this is to put the direction where the enemy is coming from to your 3/9 o'clock position, which makes your aircraft 90 degrees in relation to their radar. Keep in mind that notching will have minimal effect on a radar not operating in pulse-Doppler mode, and you should instead dive to take advantage of [[#Clutter|ground clutter]].

==Aircraft equipped with radars==
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="11" | Aircraft with radars
|-
! Aircraft !! Country !! Rank !! [[#Radar gunsights|Radar gunsight]] !! [[#Target detection radars|Search radar]] !! [[#Target tracking radars|Tracking radar]] !! {{Annotation|Separate antennas|Radars with separate search and track antennas are able to perform both actions at the same time, leading to pseudo-TWS capabilities}} !! {{Annotation|IRST|Infrared search and track}} !! {{Annotation|MTI|Moving target indication}} !! {{Annotation|PD|Pulse-Doppler}} !! [[#Track While Scan (TWS)|{{Annotation|TWS|Track-while-Scan}}]]
|-
| {{Specs-Link|a2d}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 4 || - || [[AN/APS-19]] || [[AN/APS-19]] || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|saab_a32a}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || PS-42 || PS-42 || {{Tick}} || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|ah_mk1}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APG-78 || AN/APG-78 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|ah_64d}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APG-78 || AN/APG-78 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|ah_64d_japan}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APG-78 || AN/APG-78 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|saab_aj37}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || PS-37A || PS-37A || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|bf_110g_4}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 3 || - || [[FuG-220]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|bf_110g_4_hungary}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 3 || - || [[FuG-220]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86_cl_13_mk4_italy}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86_canadair_german}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86_cl_13b_mk6}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|do_217j_2}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 1 || - || [[FuG-202]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|do_217n_1}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 2 || - || [[FuG-202]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|do_217n_2}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 2 || - || [[FuG-220]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|etndard_4m}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || DRAA 3D AIDA || DRAA 3D AIDA || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f2h-2}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f3d_1}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || [[AN/APS-21]] || [[AN/APG-26]] || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f3h-2}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AN/APQ-51 || AN/APQ-51 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f4d_1}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AN/APQ-50 || AN/APQ-50 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f6f-5n}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 3 || - || [[AN/APS-6]] || [[AN/APS-6]] || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f6f-5n_france}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 3 || - || [[AN/APS-6]] || [[AN/APS-6]] || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f8u-2}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AN/APS-67 || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f9f-5}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f9f-8}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f11f_1_late}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f1}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || J/AWG-12 || J/AWG-12 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4c}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AN/APQ-100 || AN/APQ-100 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4e}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-120 || AN/APQ-120 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4ej_adtw}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-120 || AN/APQ-120 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4ej_kai}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || AN/APG-66J || AN/APG-66J || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4ej}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-120 || AN/APQ-120 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4f_late}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-120 || AN/APQ-120 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4f}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-120 || AN/APQ-120 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4j}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || [[AN/APG-59]] || [[AN/APG-59]] || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4jk}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || [[AN/APG-59]] || [[AN/APG-59]] || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4s}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || [[AN/APG-59]] || [[AN/APG-59]] || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-5e}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-159 || AN/APQ-159 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-5e_aidc}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-159 || AN/APQ-159 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-8e}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-94 || AN/APQ-94 || - || {{Tick}} || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-8e_fn}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-104 || AN/APQ-104 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f_14a_early}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || AN/AWG-9 || AN/AWG-9 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f_16a_block_10}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || AN/APG-66 || AN/APG-66 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f_16a_block_15_adf}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || AN/APG-66(V)1 || AN/APG-66(V)1 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f_16a_block_15_adf_italy}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || AN/APG-66(V)1 || AN/APG-66(V)1 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f_16a_block_20_mlu}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || AN/APG-66(V)3 || AN/APG-66(V)3 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f_16aj}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || AN/APG-66(V)1 || AN/APG-66(V)1 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84f}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84f_france}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84f_germany}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84f_israel_iaf}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84f_italy}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84f_iaf}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84g}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84g_china}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84g_italy}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-84g-31-re_china}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86f-2}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86f-25}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86f-30_china}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86f-30_japan}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86f-35}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86f-40_china}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86f-40_japan}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86f-40_japan_blue_impulse}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86k_late}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || [[AN/APS-21]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86k_late_german}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || [[AN/APS-21]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-86k_late_italy}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || [[AN/APS-21]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-89b}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || - || AN/APG-33 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-89d}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || - || AN/APG-33 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-100a_china}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-100d}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-100d_france}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104a}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AN/ASG-14 || AN/ASG-14 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104a_china}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AN/ASG-14 || AN/ASG-14 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104c}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AN/ASG-14 || AN/ASG-14 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104g}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || NASARR || NASARR || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104g_china}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || PS-03 || PS-03 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104g_italy}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || NASARR || NASARR || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104j}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || NASARR || NASARR || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104s}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || NASARR || NASARR || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104s_asa}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || US R21G M1 || US R21G M1 || - || - || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-104s_cb}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || NASARR || NASARR || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-105d}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AN/ASG-19 || AN/ASG-19 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|fj_4b}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|fj_4b_agm_12b}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|he_219a_7}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 4 || - || [[FuG-220]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|hunter_f1}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || ARI.5820 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|hunter_f6}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|hunter_f58_switzerland}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|hunter_f9_rhodesia}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|saab_j32b}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || PS-42 || PS-42 || {{Tick}} || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|hunter_f50_sweden}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|saab_j35a}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || PS-03 || PS-03 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|saab_j35d}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || PS-03 || PS-03 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-19j_6a}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || [[RP-5]] || [[RP-5]] || {{Tick}} || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|j_7d}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || JL-7A || JL-7A || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|j_7e}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || Marconi Type 226 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|j_7_mk2}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || SRD-5 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|j_8b}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Type 208a || Type 208a || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|saab_ja37}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || PS-46/A || PS-46/A || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|saab_ja37d}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || PS-46/A || PS-46/A || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|javelin_fmk9}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || [[AN/APS-21]] || [[AN/APG-26]] || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|ju-388j}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 4 || - || [[FuG-202]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|ka_52}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || RN-01 Crossbow || RN-01 Crossbow || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|kfir_c2}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || ELTA EL/M-2001B || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|kfir_c7}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || ELTA EL/M-2001B || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|kfir_canard}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || ELTA EL/M-2001B || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4e_iaf}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APQ-120 || AN/APQ-120 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4e_kurnass_2000}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || AN/APG-76 || AN/APG-76 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|la_200_toriy}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || [[Thorium]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|lightning_f6}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AI Mk.23 || AI Mk.23 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|lightning_f53}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || AI Mk.23 || AI Mk.23 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-17p_lim_5p}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || [[RP-5]] || [[RP-5]] || {{Tick}} || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|me-410b-6_r3}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 4 || - || [[FuG-200]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|meteor_nfmk13}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || [[Mk.X]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mi_28nm}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || N-025 || N-025 || - || - || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-19pt}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || [[RP-5]] || [[RP-5]] || {{Tick}} || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-19s}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || SRD-1 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-21_bis_lazur}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Sapphire-21 || Sapphire-21 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-21_sps_k}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || Sapphire-21 || Sapphire-21 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-21_bis}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Sapphire-21 || Sapphire-21 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig_21_bis_finland}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Sapphire-21 || Sapphire-21 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-21_bis_sau}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Sapphire-21 || Sapphire-21 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-21_f13}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || SRD-5 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-21_mf}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Sapphire-21 || Sapphire-21 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-21_pfm}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || Sapphire-21 || Sapphire-21 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-21_s}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || Sapphire-21 || Sapphire-21 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig-21_smt}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Sapphire-21 || Sapphire-21 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig_23m}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Sapphire-23D/TP-23 || Sapphire-23D/TP-23 || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig_23mf_germany}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Sapphire-23D/TP-23 || Sapphire-23D/TP-23 || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig_23ml}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Sapphire-23ML/TP-23M || Sapphire-23ML/TP-23M || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig_23mla}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || Sapphire-23MLA/TP-23M || Sapphire-23MLA/TP-23M || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig_23mld}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || Sapphire-23MLA-2/TP-23M || Sapphire-23MLA-2/TP-23M || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig_29_9_12_germany}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || N019E/OEPS-29E || N019E/OEPS-29E || - || {{Tick}} || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mig_29_9_13}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || N019/OEPS-29 || N019/OEPS-29 || - || {{Tick}} || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mirage_milan}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || Aida II || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mirage_2000c_s5}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || Thomson-CSF RDI || Thomson-CSF RDI || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mirage_2000d_r1}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || Thomson-CSF RDI || Thomson-CSF RDI || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mirage_f1c}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Cyrano-IV || Cyrano-IV || - || - || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mirage_f1c_200}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Cyrano-IV || Cyrano-IV || - || - || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mirage_f1ct}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Cyrano-IVMR || Cyrano-IVMR || - || - || {{Tick}} || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mirage_3c}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Cyrano Ibis || Cyrano Ibis || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mirage_3e}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Cyrano II || Cyrano II || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|md_454_mystere_4a}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|md_454_mystere_4a_iaf}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|nesher}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || ELTA EL/M-2001B || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f_16a_block_10_iaf}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || AN/APG-66 || AN/APG-66 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|p-61a_1}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 3 || - || [[Mk.X]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|p-61c_1}} || [[File:USA_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 3 || - || [[Mk.X]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4k}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || [[AN/APG-59]] || [[AN/APG-59]] || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|f-4m_fgr2}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || [[AN/APG-59]] || [[AN/APG-59]] || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|so_4050_vautour_2n}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || DRAC-25A || DRAC-25A || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|so_4050_vautour_2n_late}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || DRAC-32A || DRAC-32A || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|md_460_saar}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|saab_j35xs}} || [[File:Sweden_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || PS-011/A 71H(IR) || PS-011/A 71H(IR) || - || {{Tick}} || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|md_460_sambad}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|ah_64d_i_saraph}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || AN/APG-78 || AN/APG-78 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|scimitar_f1}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|harrier_frs1}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Ferranti Blue Fox || Ferranti Blue Fox || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|sea_venom_faw20}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || [[Mk.X]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|dh_110_sea_vixen}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || AI Mk.18 || AI Mk.18 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|mirage_3cj}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || - || Cyrano Ibis || Cyrano Ibis || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|su-7b}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || SRD-5 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|su-7bkl}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || SRD-5 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|su-7bmk}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || SRD-5 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|su_17m2}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || SRD-5 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|su_17m4}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || SRD-5 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|su_22m3}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || SRD-5 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|su_22um3k}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 7 || SRD-5 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|md_460}} || [[File:France_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|swift_f1}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || ARI.5857 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|swift_f7}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || AN/APG-30 || - || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|t2}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || J/AWG-11 || J/AWG-11 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|t2_early}} || [[File:Japan_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || J/AWG-11 || J/AWG-11 || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|tornado_f3}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || GEC-Marconi Avionics AI.Mk 24 Foxhunter Type W || GEC-Marconi Avionics AI.Mk 24 Foxhunter Type W || - || - || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|tornado_gr1}} || [[File:Britain_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || - || ARI 23274 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|tornado_ids_de_mfg}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || ARI 23274 || ARI 23274 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|tornado_ids_it_mod95}} || [[File:Italy_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || - || ARI 23274 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|tornado_ids_de_assta1}} || [[File:Germany_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || - || ARI 23274 || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|tu-1}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 4 || - || [[GNEYS-5S]] || - || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|so_4050_vautour_2n_iaf}} || [[File:Israel_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 5 || - || DRAC-25A || DRAC-25A || - || - || - || - || -
|-
| {{Specs-Link|yak_141}} || [[File:USSR_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 8 || - || N010 || N010 || - || {{Tick}} || - || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
| {{Specs-Link|z_19}} || [[File:China_flag.png|40px|link=]] || 6 || - || RN-01-II || RN-01-II || - || - || - || - || -
|-
|}

== Media ==


;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|lF-8jutRymk|'''Aircraft Radar: The Complete Guide (Updated June 2022)''' - ''Tims Variety''|2NZVMgMpZSU|'''Boot Camp: Radar Systems''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''.|tQhEl042QE8|'''The Shooting Range #275''' - ''Tactics & Strategy'' section at 07:55 discusses aircraft radar systems.|tcIeR_s6fp8|'''The Shooting Range #204''' - ''Tactics & Strategy'' section at 09:23 discusses the radars.}}

== See also ==


* [[Air-to-air missiles]]
* [[Air-to-ground missiles]]
* [[:Category:Countermeasures]]
* [[SPAA radars]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6064-development-radar-station-new-opportunities-in-the-game-en|[Devblog] Radar Station: New opportunities in the game]]

[[Category:Game mechanics]]
[[Category:Radars]]

A-7 Corsair II (Family)

2023-04-18T11:28:07Z

U84733411: last edit for the night, made a punctuation and sentence restructure for the A-7K brief description in Rank VIII section.

== Description ==

The '''LTV A-7 Corsair II''' is a family of 1960s-era attack aircraft used for Close Air Support and light strike, developed from the [[F-8 (Family)|F-8 Crusader]].

== Vehicles ==
=== Rank VII ===

* [[A-7D]] Corsair II, a variant for the USAF used to fill the gap in slow-speed, long-endurance CAS aircraft. It incorporated a license-produced version of the Rolls-Royce Spey engine as opposed to earlier aircraft with the Pratt & Whitney TF-30, as well as featuring the first Heads-Up-Display with a computerized weapons delivery system on an aircraft.
* [[A-7E]] Corsair II, the penultimate USN variant incorporating the same improvements in engine power and cockpit display of the A-7D, and with a much-expanded weapons fit and loadout.
* [[A-7K]] Corsair II, a twin-seater variant derived from the earlier A-7D, it was built for and used exclusively as a trainer aircraft by the Air National Guard. It has a better variant of the [[AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9]] Sidewinder and [[AGM-65B|AGM-65]] Maverick available over the D model, can use the E model's LANA FLIR pod, and improved survivability thanks to the addition of a second pilot.

== History ==

The '''LTV A-7 Corsair II''' is a family of American 1960s-70s subsonic carrier-capable light attack aircraft, manufactured by '''Ling-Temco Vought''', developed initially for the US Navy as a low-cost attack aircraft to replace the [[A-4 (Family)|Douglas A-4 Skyhawk]]. The USAF used a variant of A-7, the [[A-7D]], as a replacement for [[AD Skyraider (Family)|A-1 Skyraiders (AD)]] to fill the gap in US service for a slower-moving close air support aircraft with long loiter time and high weapon loads, as opposed to faster, multi-role aircraft with less endurance, such as the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom II]]. Based on the [[F-8 (Family)|F-8 Crusader]], the aircraft served from the 1960s into the 1990s, receiving multiple upgrades to its capabilities and weapons fits.

Initial A-variants for the USN used a Pratt & Whitney TF-30-P-6 engine, but this engine was found to be underpowered and deficient, resulting in the adoption of the TF-30-P-8 variant of the same engine. In 1964, the USAF was pressured to adopt a dedicated low-speed, subsonic aircraft for dedicated Close Air Support, and in 1965, the USAF announced its decision to procure a variant of A-7 under the tentative name "A-7D". In part due to a shortage of TF-30s, the USAF decided to use Allison's license-produced adaptation of the Rolls-Royce Spey RB.168, also used in the [[F-4K]] and [[F-4M]], known as the TF-41-A-1. While this decision was highly controversial on both sides of the Atlantic, it was also wildly successful, giving the A-7 a much-needed power boost, as well as enjoying an excellent rate of specific fuel consumption compared to turbojet-powered aircraft such as the F-4J/S Phantom. The US Air Force favoured the 20 mm M61 Vulcan over the USN's [[Browning-Colt Mk12 Mod 3 (20 mm)|20mm Colt Mk 12]] and [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|Colt Mk 11]], and incorporated the Vulcan into their aircraft.

The A-7D entered USAF service in 1970. 1972, it was pressed into service as an escort aircraft for Helicopter Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR, or Caesar), flying under the callsign "Sandy", like the A-1s that preceded it. While the A-7 was found to be a little too fast for the role of helicopter escort, its endurance was warmly welcomed, and it continued to serve in this capacity as well as as Close Air Support well into the early 90s. Initially built without any capability for guided weapons as a replacement for the Skyraider, modifications in its service life included integration of Paveways and Mavericks into the airframe, as well as the addition of internal chaff and flare dispensers. The A-7D was the first aircraft to use a Heads-Up Display with a computerized weapons delivery system. While considered standard on modern aircraft, for the 1970s, this feature was completely revolutionary at a time when reflector sights were still the norm.

The USN's A-7E entered service a little later in 1970, and incorporated the same improvements and advanced features as the A-7D, such as the Vulcan cannon, Allison TF-41-A-2 Spey and the computerized weapons system, with small adjustments and changes to better suit the USN's needs. This included guided weapons capability from the outset, reflected by the aircraft's ability to use Walleyes and early data-link pods. The A-7E was used heavily in Vietnam and beyond, and last saw combat service with the US Navy dropping upgraded versions of Walleyes against targets in Kuwait and Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, fighting alongside the aircraft that it was originally designed to replace- the A-4, which served in the Kuwaiti Air Force.

The A-7K entered service for the Air National Guard in 1982, serving as a trainer aircraft. Its design was derived from the A-7D, which was also in heavy use by the ANG around this time, with 30 airframes built in total. The A-7K marked the first time that a variant of an aircraft was built specifically for the ANG, and the majority were used by the [[wikipedia:162nd_Wing#International_training_unit|162nd Wing's Tactical Fighter Training Group]] in Tucson, Arizona. [[wikipedia:LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Air_National_Guard:~:text=and Desert Storm-,Use in F-117 development,-Training retirement and|Several A-7Ks also aided in both the development of, and clandestine usage for the F-117 Nighthawk, alongside roughly 20 A-7Ds during the 1980s.]]

The Corsair II retired from Regular USAF and USN service in 1991, and ANG service in 1993. Foreign nations would go on to use it for longer. The Hellenic (Greek) Air Force was the last air force to retire their A-7s. Finally deciding to retire them in 2014, the A-7 last flew in Greek service nearly 60 years after the aircraft first flew in September of 1965.

== External links ==
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/162nd_Wing#International_training_unit

|https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Air_National_Guard:~:text=and%20Desert%20Storm-,Use%20in%20F%2D117%20development,-Training%20retirement%20and

=== References ===

* ''NAVAIR 01-45AAE-1, A-7C/E Flight Manual''. Washington, D.C., USA: US Navy. 1 March 1973.
* Connors, J. (2010). ''The Engines of Pratt & Whitney: A Technical History''. Reston. Virginia: American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.
* "A Corsair by any other name: The Story of Sandy, SLUF and the Little Hummers". ''Air International''. '''22''' (3): 121–125, 143–146. March 1982.

{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

[[Category:Family pages]]

A-7 Corsair II (Family)

2023-04-18T11:04:44Z

U84733411: Hopefully I ACTUALLY fixed the broken external links

== Description ==

The '''LTV A-7 Corsair II''' is a family of 1960s-era attack aircraft used for Close Air Support and light strike, developed from the [[F-8 (Family)|F-8 Crusader]].

== Vehicles ==
=== Rank VII ===

* [[A-7D]] Corsair II, a variant for the USAF used to fill the gap in slow-speed, long-endurance CAS aircraft. It incorporated a license-produced version of the Rolls-Royce Spey engine as opposed to earlier aircraft with the Pratt & Whitney TF-30, as well as featuring the first Heads-Up-Display with a computerized weapons delivery system on an aircraft.
* [[A-7E]] Corsair II, the penultimate USN variant incorporating the same improvements in engine power and cockpit display of the A-7D, and with a much-expanded weapons fit and loadout.
* [[A-7K]] Corsair II, a twin-seater variant derived from the earlier A-7D built for and used exclusively as a trainer aircraft by the Air National Guard. It has a better variant of the [[AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9]] Sidewinder and [[AGM-65B|AGM-65]] Maverick available over the D model, can use the E model's LANA FLIR pod, and improved survivability thanks to the addition of a second pilot.

== History ==

The '''LTV A-7 Corsair II''' is a family of American 1960s-70s subsonic carrier-capable light attack aircraft, manufactured by '''Ling-Temco Vought''', developed initially for the US Navy as a low-cost attack aircraft to replace the [[A-4 (Family)|Douglas A-4 Skyhawk]]. The USAF used a variant of A-7, the [[A-7D]], as a replacement for [[AD Skyraider (Family)|A-1 Skyraiders (AD)]] to fill the gap in US service for a slower-moving close air support aircraft with long loiter time and high weapon loads, as opposed to faster, multi-role aircraft with less endurance, such as the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom II]]. Based on the [[F-8 (Family)|F-8 Crusader]], the aircraft served from the 1960s into the 1990s, receiving multiple upgrades to its capabilities and weapons fits.

Initial A-variants for the USN used a Pratt & Whitney TF-30-P-6 engine, but this engine was found to be underpowered and deficient, resulting in the adoption of the TF-30-P-8 variant of the same engine. In 1964, the USAF was pressured to adopt a dedicated low-speed, subsonic aircraft for dedicated Close Air Support, and in 1965, the USAF announced its decision to procure a variant of A-7 under the tentative name "A-7D". In part due to a shortage of TF-30s, the USAF decided to use Allison's license-produced adaptation of the Rolls-Royce Spey RB.168, also used in the [[F-4K]] and [[F-4M]], known as the TF-41-A-1. While this decision was highly controversial on both sides of the Atlantic, it was also wildly successful, giving the A-7 a much-needed power boost, as well as enjoying an excellent rate of specific fuel consumption compared to turbojet-powered aircraft such as the F-4J/S Phantom. The US Air Force favoured the 20 mm M61 Vulcan over the USN's [[Browning-Colt Mk12 Mod 3 (20 mm)|20mm Colt Mk 12]] and [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|Colt Mk 11]], and incorporated the Vulcan into their aircraft.

The A-7D entered USAF service in 1970. 1972, it was pressed into service as an escort aircraft for Helicopter Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR, or Caesar), flying under the callsign "Sandy", like the A-1s that preceded it. While the A-7 was found to be a little too fast for the role of helicopter escort, its endurance was warmly welcomed, and it continued to serve in this capacity as well as as Close Air Support well into the early 90s. Initially built without any capability for guided weapons as a replacement for the Skyraider, modifications in its service life included integration of Paveways and Mavericks into the airframe, as well as the addition of internal chaff and flare dispensers. The A-7D was the first aircraft to use a Heads-Up Display with a computerized weapons delivery system. While considered standard on modern aircraft, for the 1970s, this feature was completely revolutionary at a time when reflector sights were still the norm.

The USN's A-7E entered service a little later in 1970, and incorporated the same improvements and advanced features as the A-7D, such as the Vulcan cannon, Allison TF-41-A-2 Spey and the computerized weapons system, with small adjustments and changes to better suit the USN's needs. This included guided weapons capability from the outset, reflected by the aircraft's ability to use Walleyes and early data-link pods. The A-7E was used heavily in Vietnam and beyond, and last saw combat service with the US Navy dropping upgraded versions of Walleyes against targets in Kuwait and Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, fighting alongside the aircraft that it was originally designed to replace- the A-4, which served in the Kuwaiti Air Force.

The A-7K entered service for the Air National Guard in 1982, serving as a trainer aircraft. Its design was derived from the A-7D, which was also in heavy use by the ANG around this time, with 30 airframes built in total. The A-7K marked the first time that a variant of an aircraft was built specifically for the ANG, and the majority were used by the [[wikipedia:162nd_Wing#International_training_unit|162nd Wing's Tactical Fighter Training Group]] in Tucson, Arizona. [[wikipedia:LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Air_National_Guard:~:text=and Desert Storm-,Use in F-117 development,-Training retirement and|Several A-7Ks also aided in both the development of, and clandestine usage for the F-117 Nighthawk, alongside roughly 20 A-7Ds during the 1980s.]]

The Corsair II retired from Regular USAF and USN service in 1991, and ANG service in 1993. Foreign nations would go on to use it for longer. The Hellenic (Greek) Air Force was the last air force to retire their A-7s. Finally deciding to retire them in 2014, the A-7 last flew in Greek service nearly 60 years after the aircraft first flew in September of 1965.

== External links ==
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/162nd_Wing#International_training_unit

|https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Air_National_Guard:~:text=and%20Desert%20Storm-,Use%20in%20F%2D117%20development,-Training%20retirement%20and

=== References ===

* ''NAVAIR 01-45AAE-1, A-7C/E Flight Manual''. Washington, D.C., USA: US Navy. 1 March 1973.
* Connors, J. (2010). ''The Engines of Pratt & Whitney: A Technical History''. Reston. Virginia: American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.
* "A Corsair by any other name: The Story of Sandy, SLUF and the Little Hummers". ''Air International''. '''22''' (3): 121–125, 143–146. March 1982.

{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

[[Category:Family pages]]

A-7 Corsair II (Family)

2023-04-18T11:00:39Z

U84733411: Fixed a grammar error in earlier Rank VII section edit for the A-7K, and slightly changed the sentence.

== Description ==

The '''LTV A-7 Corsair II''' is a family of 1960s-era attack aircraft used for Close Air Support and light strike, developed from the [[F-8 (Family)|F-8 Crusader]].

== Vehicles ==
=== Rank VII ===

* [[A-7D]] Corsair II, a variant for the USAF used to fill the gap in slow-speed, long-endurance CAS aircraft. It incorporated a license-produced version of the Rolls-Royce Spey engine as opposed to earlier aircraft with the Pratt & Whitney TF-30, as well as featuring the first Heads-Up-Display with a computerized weapons delivery system on an aircraft.
* [[A-7E]] Corsair II, the penultimate USN variant incorporating the same improvements in engine power and cockpit display of the A-7D, and with a much-expanded weapons fit and loadout.
* [[A-7K]] Corsair II, a twin-seater variant derived from the earlier A-7D built for and used exclusively as a trainer aircraft by the Air National Guard. It has a better variant of the [[AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9]] Sidewinder and [[AGM-65B|AGM-65]] Maverick available over the D model, can use the E model's LANA FLIR pod, and improved survivability thanks to the addition of a second pilot.

== History ==

The '''LTV A-7 Corsair II''' is a family of American 1960s-70s subsonic carrier-capable light attack aircraft, manufactured by '''Ling-Temco Vought''', developed initially for the US Navy as a low-cost attack aircraft to replace the [[A-4 (Family)|Douglas A-4 Skyhawk]]. The USAF used a variant of A-7, the [[A-7D]], as a replacement for [[AD Skyraider (Family)|A-1 Skyraiders (AD)]] to fill the gap in US service for a slower-moving close air support aircraft with long loiter time and high weapon loads, as opposed to faster, multi-role aircraft with less endurance, such as the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom II]]. Based on the [[F-8 (Family)|F-8 Crusader]], the aircraft served from the 1960s into the 1990s, receiving multiple upgrades to its capabilities and weapons fits.

Initial A-variants for the USN used a Pratt & Whitney TF-30-P-6 engine, but this engine was found to be underpowered and deficient, resulting in the adoption of the TF-30-P-8 variant of the same engine. In 1964, the USAF was pressured to adopt a dedicated low-speed, subsonic aircraft for dedicated Close Air Support, and in 1965, the USAF announced its decision to procure a variant of A-7 under the tentative name "A-7D". In part due to a shortage of TF-30s, the USAF decided to use Allison's license-produced adaptation of the Rolls-Royce Spey RB.168, also used in the [[F-4K]] and [[F-4M]], known as the TF-41-A-1. While this decision was highly controversial on both sides of the Atlantic, it was also wildly successful, giving the A-7 a much-needed power boost, as well as enjoying an excellent rate of specific fuel consumption compared to turbojet-powered aircraft such as the F-4J/S Phantom. The US Air Force favoured the 20 mm M61 Vulcan over the USN's [[Browning-Colt Mk12 Mod 3 (20 mm)|20mm Colt Mk 12]] and [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|Colt Mk 11]], and incorporated the Vulcan into their aircraft.

The A-7D entered USAF service in 1970. 1972, it was pressed into service as an escort aircraft for Helicopter Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR, or Caesar), flying under the callsign "Sandy", like the A-1s that preceded it. While the A-7 was found to be a little too fast for the role of helicopter escort, its endurance was warmly welcomed, and it continued to serve in this capacity as well as as Close Air Support well into the early 90s. Initially built without any capability for guided weapons as a replacement for the Skyraider, modifications in its service life included integration of Paveways and Mavericks into the airframe, as well as the addition of internal chaff and flare dispensers. The A-7D was the first aircraft to use a Heads-Up Display with a computerized weapons delivery system. While considered standard on modern aircraft, for the 1970s, this feature was completely revolutionary at a time when reflector sights were still the norm.

The USN's A-7E entered service a little later in 1970, and incorporated the same improvements and advanced features as the A-7D, such as the Vulcan cannon, Allison TF-41-A-2 Spey and the computerized weapons system, with small adjustments and changes to better suit the USN's needs. This included guided weapons capability from the outset, reflected by the aircraft's ability to use Walleyes and early data-link pods. The A-7E was used heavily in Vietnam and beyond, and last saw combat service with the US Navy dropping upgraded versions of Walleyes against targets in Kuwait and Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, fighting alongside the aircraft that it was originally designed to replace- the A-4, which served in the Kuwaiti Air Force.

The A-7K entered service for the Air National Guard in 1982, serving as a trainer aircraft. Its design was derived from the A-7D, which was also in heavy use by the ANG around this time, with 30 airframes built in total. The A-7K marked the first time that a variant of an aircraft was built specifically for the ANG, and the majority were used by the [[wikipedia:162nd_Wing#International_training_unit|162nd Wing's Tactical Fighter Training Group]] in Tucson, Arizona. [[wikipedia:LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Use_in_F-117_development:~:text=Use in F-117 development[edit source]|Several A-7Ks also aided in both the development of, and clandestine usage for the F-117 Nighthawk, alongside roughly 20 A-7Ds during the 1980s.]]

The Corsair II retired from Regular USAF and USN service in 1991, and ANG service in 1993. Foreign nations would go on to use it for longer. The Hellenic (Greek) Air Force was the last air force to retire their A-7s. Finally deciding to retire them in 2014, the A-7 last flew in Greek service nearly 60 years after the aircraft first flew in September of 1965.

== External links ==
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/162nd_Wing#International_training_unit

[[wikipedia:LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Use_in_F-117_development:~:text=Use in F-117 development[edit source]|https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Air_National_Guard:~:text=and%20Desert%20Storm-,Use%20in%20F%2D117%20development,-Training%20retirement%20and]]

=== References ===

* ''NAVAIR 01-45AAE-1, A-7C/E Flight Manual''. Washington, D.C., USA: US Navy. 1 March 1973.
* Connors, J. (2010). ''The Engines of Pratt & Whitney: A Technical History''. Reston. Virginia: American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.
* "A Corsair by any other name: The Story of Sandy, SLUF and the Little Hummers". ''Air International''. '''22''' (3): 121–125, 143–146. March 1982.

{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

[[Category:Family pages]]

A-7 Corsair II (Family)

2023-04-18T10:58:48Z

U84733411: Added a brief explanation of the A-7K Corsair II in the Rank VII section, and a moderately detailed explanation of its service life to the History section with some external links to Wikipedia. Changed one mention of Air National Guard to abbreviated ANG.

== Description ==

The '''LTV A-7 Corsair II''' is a family of 1960s-era attack aircraft used for Close Air Support and light strike, developed from the [[F-8 (Family)|F-8 Crusader]].

== Vehicles ==
=== Rank VII ===

* [[A-7D]] Corsair II, a variant for the USAF used to fill the gap in slow-speed, long-endurance CAS aircraft. It incorporated a license-produced version of the Rolls-Royce Spey engine as opposed to earlier aircraft with the Pratt & Whitney TF-30, as well as featuring the first Heads-Up-Display with a computerized weapons delivery system on an aircraft.
* [[A-7E]] Corsair II, the penultimate USN variant incorporating the same improvements in engine power and cockpit display of the A-7D, and with a much-expanded weapons fit and loadout.
* [[A-7K]] Corsair II, a twin-seater variant derived from the earlier A-7D, and was used exclusivley as a trainer aircraft by the Air National Guard. It has a better variant of the [[AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9]] Sidewinder and [[AGM-65B|AGM-65]] Maverick available over the D model, can use the E model's LANA FLIR pod, and improved survivability thanks to the addition of a second pilot.

== History ==

The '''LTV A-7 Corsair II''' is a family of American 1960s-70s subsonic carrier-capable light attack aircraft, manufactured by '''Ling-Temco Vought''', developed initially for the US Navy as a low-cost attack aircraft to replace the [[A-4 (Family)|Douglas A-4 Skyhawk]]. The USAF used a variant of A-7, the [[A-7D]], as a replacement for [[AD Skyraider (Family)|A-1 Skyraiders (AD)]] to fill the gap in US service for a slower-moving close air support aircraft with long loiter time and high weapon loads, as opposed to faster, multi-role aircraft with less endurance, such as the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom II]]. Based on the [[F-8 (Family)|F-8 Crusader]], the aircraft served from the 1960s into the 1990s, receiving multiple upgrades to its capabilities and weapons fits.

Initial A-variants for the USN used a Pratt & Whitney TF-30-P-6 engine, but this engine was found to be underpowered and deficient, resulting in the adoption of the TF-30-P-8 variant of the same engine. In 1964, the USAF was pressured to adopt a dedicated low-speed, subsonic aircraft for dedicated Close Air Support, and in 1965, the USAF announced its decision to procure a variant of A-7 under the tentative name "A-7D". In part due to a shortage of TF-30s, the USAF decided to use Allison's license-produced adaptation of the Rolls-Royce Spey RB.168, also used in the [[F-4K]] and [[F-4M]], known as the TF-41-A-1. While this decision was highly controversial on both sides of the Atlantic, it was also wildly successful, giving the A-7 a much-needed power boost, as well as enjoying an excellent rate of specific fuel consumption compared to turbojet-powered aircraft such as the F-4J/S Phantom. The US Air Force favoured the 20 mm M61 Vulcan over the USN's [[Browning-Colt Mk12 Mod 3 (20 mm)|20mm Colt Mk 12]] and [[Mk 11 mod 5 (20 mm)|Colt Mk 11]], and incorporated the Vulcan into their aircraft.

The A-7D entered USAF service in 1970. 1972, it was pressed into service as an escort aircraft for Helicopter Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR, or Caesar), flying under the callsign "Sandy", like the A-1s that preceded it. While the A-7 was found to be a little too fast for the role of helicopter escort, its endurance was warmly welcomed, and it continued to serve in this capacity as well as as Close Air Support well into the early 90s. Initially built without any capability for guided weapons as a replacement for the Skyraider, modifications in its service life included integration of Paveways and Mavericks into the airframe, as well as the addition of internal chaff and flare dispensers. The A-7D was the first aircraft to use a Heads-Up Display with a computerized weapons delivery system. While considered standard on modern aircraft, for the 1970s, this feature was completely revolutionary at a time when reflector sights were still the norm.

The USN's A-7E entered service a little later in 1970, and incorporated the same improvements and advanced features as the A-7D, such as the Vulcan cannon, Allison TF-41-A-2 Spey and the computerized weapons system, with small adjustments and changes to better suit the USN's needs. This included guided weapons capability from the outset, reflected by the aircraft's ability to use Walleyes and early data-link pods. The A-7E was used heavily in Vietnam and beyond, and last saw combat service with the US Navy dropping upgraded versions of Walleyes against targets in Kuwait and Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, fighting alongside the aircraft that it was originally designed to replace- the A-4, which served in the Kuwaiti Air Force.

The A-7K entered service for the Air National Guard in 1982, serving as a trainer aircraft. Its design was derived from the A-7D, which was also in heavy use by the ANG around this time, with 30 airframes built in total. The A-7K marked the first time that a variant of an aircraft was built specifically for the ANG, and the majority were used by the [[wikipedia:162nd_Wing#International_training_unit|162nd Wing's Tactical Fighter Training Group]] in Tucson, Arizona. [[wikipedia:LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Use_in_F-117_development:~:text=Use in F-117 development[edit source]|Several A-7Ks also aided in both the development of, and clandestine usage for the F-117 Nighthawk, alongside roughly 20 A-7Ds during the 1980s.]]

The Corsair II retired from Regular USAF and USN service in 1991, and ANG service in 1993. Foreign nations would go on to use it for longer. The Hellenic (Greek) Air Force was the last air force to retire their A-7s. Finally deciding to retire them in 2014, the A-7 last flew in Greek service nearly 60 years after the aircraft first flew in September of 1965.

== External links ==
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/162nd_Wing#International_training_unit

[[wikipedia:LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Use_in_F-117_development:~:text=Use in F-117 development[edit source]|https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/LTV_A-7_Corsair_II#Air_National_Guard:~:text=and%20Desert%20Storm-,Use%20in%20F%2D117%20development,-Training%20retirement%20and]]

=== References ===

* ''NAVAIR 01-45AAE-1, A-7C/E Flight Manual''. Washington, D.C., USA: US Navy. 1 March 1973.
* Connors, J. (2010). ''The Engines of Pratt & Whitney: A Technical History''. Reston. Virginia: American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics.
* "A Corsair by any other name: The Story of Sandy, SLUF and the Little Hummers". ''Air International''. '''22''' (3): 121–125, 143–146. March 1982.

{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

[[Category:Family pages]]

A-7K

2023-04-18T10:13:49Z

U84733411: /* Engine performance */ Fixed wrong version of the Allison TF-41 being put in the Engine name. (Was previously the A-1 variant belonging to the A-7D when it's actually the A-2 from the A-7E)

{{About
|about= gift American strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage= other versions
|link= A-7 Corsair II (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=a_7k
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
|market=id50217_a_7k_usa
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Sky Guardians"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/8186-event-repair-factory-en|"Repair Factory" event]].

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 0 m - sea level)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 1,114 || 1,108 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.4 || 37.0 || 42.2 || 41.9 || rowspan="2" | 1,000
|-
! Upgraded
| ___ || ___ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,254  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 484 || 457 || 406 || ~10 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 700 || < 690 || < 500 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="6" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Allison TF-41-A-2 || 1
| colspan="3" | 9,196 kg || colspan="3" | 395 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 15m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 53m fuel
|-
| 1,592 kg || colspan="2" | Low-bypass turbofan
| 10,562 kg || 10,910 kg || 11,768 kg || 13,053 kg || 13,748 kg || _,___ kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 15m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 53m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 4,741 kgf || -
| 0.45 || 0.43 || 0.40 || 0.36 || 0.34 || _.__
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 6,378 kgf (200 km/h) || -
| 0.60 || 0.58 || 0.54 || 0.49 || 0.46 || _.__
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, chin-mounted (1,000 rpg)
** 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon + 120 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}

{{main|LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)}}
{{main|GBU-8 (2,000 lb)|AGM-65B|AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9J Sidewinder}}
{{main|FFAR Mighty Mouse|BLU-27/B incendiary|GAU-13/A (30 mm)|GAU-4 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance presets:

* Without load
* 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 2 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles
* 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 24 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 24 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (12,000 lb total)
* 14 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (10,500 lb total)
* 12 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (12,000 lb total)
* 6 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (12,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-8 (8,000 lb total)
* 6 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
* 6 x AGM-65B
* 2 x 20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total)
* 2 x 30 mm GAU-13/A cannons (353 rpg = 706 total)

The A-7K can carry huge amount of suspended armament for ground attack use. Aircraft starts of with up to 24 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs, which are enough to dispose of a base in Air RB. After researching 24 x 500 lb Mk 82 bombs the plane is capable of destroying 2 bases in one run. It can also take 14 x 750 lb M117, 12 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 and 6 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs, which are more useful in Ground RB since they offer larger blast radii. For use against ground vehicles the plane can carry 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets, 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-8 TV-guided bombs and 6 x AGM-65B TV-guided air-to-ground missiles. Guided munitions are used with the LANA Flir Navigation Pod, which provides thermal vision over the battlefield, making spotting targets easier. That makes the A-7K a very potent CAS option that can bring havoc upon the enemy team. The aircraft can also carry 6 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs, and for self-defense against enemy planes it starts with 2 x AIM-9J air-to-air missiles, which can be upgraded to AIM-9Ls. For increased firepower, the plane can take 2 x 20 mm GAU-4 gunpods (with 1,200 rounds each) or 2 x 30 mm GAU-13/A gunpods (with 353 rounds each).

== Usage in battles ==


;Air Realistic Battles

In Air RB, the A-7K presents a very limited utility, mainly attacking ground targets. Bases are an option, but its low top speed combined with the limited manoeuvrability while carrying ordinance make it a perilous mission, as you are an easy target for any fighter that can show up, and friendly planes will almost always get there before you do. Flying to the side low to the ground is recommended, until enemy aircraft will back out or start fighting with your team. Then you can target respawning bases behind the frontline, and once you are done, if you didn't get a chance to do so, you can try to use your missiles to take down enemies, but keep in mind you don't want to start actively fighting. If a fighter decides to target you, strongly consider dropping your ordinance and abandoning any bombing run to increase your chances of survival. The strongest enemies you can encounter are the MiG-29, F-16 and F-14. There is nothing the A-7K can realistically do to counter those aircraft, so you want to stay unseen as long as it is possible, though the AIM-9L can occasionally get rid of an unsuspecting target.

;Ground Realistic Battles

As a strike aircraft, the A-7K is exceptionally well equipped for CAS missions. Guided ordnance with LANA Flir navigation pod make a very potent combo, allowing you to keep distance from SPAAGs, though SAM SPAAs are still a huge threat, especially the Pantsir-S1, as you spawn within its range. The best thing you can do is fly close to the ground, go to the side of the map and only reveal yourself when you are close to the battlefield. Then, you want to quickly spot SPAAs and target them with your AGMs or guided bombs using the navigation pod. You can also go and check if there are any helicopters up and destroy them so your team can focus more on objectives.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Airframe is relatively sturdy
* Carries enough ordinance to destroy 2 bases
* Guided munitions make it very effective for CAS
* Gets LANA Flir navigation pod for spotting ground targets
* The internal 20 mm M61A1 rotary cannon can shred enemy aircraft
* AIM-9Ls can be pretty effective for air-to-air combat

'''Cons:'''

* Poor flight performance
* Easy target for enemy aircraft
* Lacks a functional radar
* Prone to catch fire when hit

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==

''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[A-7 Corsair II (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8184-development-repair-factory-a-7k-corsair-ii-en|[Devblog] Repair Factory: A-7K Corsair II]]

{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}