McDonnell Douglas Phantom F-4J (UK) – ZE353, 74 Sqn, RAF, Wattisham, April 1990

Hobby Master 1/72 scale HA1985: McDonnell Douglas F-4J (UK) Phantom ZE353 of 74 Sqn., RAF Wattisham, April 1990

Length 9.75 inches Wingspan 6.25 inches

74 Squadron “Tiger Squadron” existed from 1917 until the 1990s. The Squadron had been reformed at RAF Wattisham in 1984 and operated the F-4J until January 1991. McDonnell Douglas F-4J Phantom ZE-353 was former USN 153785 and was delivered to Wattisham on October 4, 1984. In 1991 74 Squadron exchanged their F-4Js for surplus FGR.2 Phantoms and on February 20, 1991 the aircraft moved to Manston Fire School and was finally scrapped in July 2001. 74 Squadron disbanded in October 1992.

After the Falklands the RAF had a gap in the Air Defence of GB, with the delay to the new F3 Tornado and the lack of other RAF Phantoms the MOD purchased straight from the New Mexico Desert a Sqn of Ex US Navy F4J. Some of these aircraft still had Battle scars from Vietnam. These were designated F4J (UK) and were rushed into service still sporting basic US Navy colours. These were later painted in due course to RAF air defense grey.