The storied F-4 Phantom jets, after 55 years of guarding South Korea’s airspace, have flown their last mission.

It’s a significant moment not just for the Republic of Korea (ROK) but also for military enthusiasts and historians who have closely followed the evolution of air combat capabilities since the Cold War.

The Phantoms, which were a key strategic asset during the post-Korean War era, were formidable multi-role fighters.

The ROK’s decision to acquire the F-4s in 1968 was a strategic move to counter North Korea’s superior air force, as at the time, the South had a relatively inferior fleet.

The Phantoms, supplied by the United States, marked South Korea’s first major step towards establishing air superiority over the Korean Peninsula.

At that time, to effectively operate South Korea’s “only” strategic asset, the F-4, the ROK Air Force set a goal to complete F-4 operational readiness by the late 1970s. They sent 112 personnel, including pilots, maintenance, and weapon specialists, to the United States to prepare for independent operation.

On August 29, 1969, the 151st Fighter Squadron (F-4 Phantom II Squadron) was established as they flew the aircraft directly across the Pacific to Daegu Air Base.

As one of the few jets to serve in the U.S. Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, the F-4 Phantom was unique. Its versatility was demonstrated through its capacity to perform all-weather air operations, a rear seat for a weapons systems officer, and a hefty payload capacity that was unparalleled in its time.

This capability was particularly notable when compared to the North’s MiG-21 fighters. During the Vietnam War, the Phantoms acquired a reputation as “MiG Killers,” thanks to their favorable kill ratio against the MiG-21s.

The Phantom was more than just a fighting machine; it represented the ironclad alliance between the ROK and the United States. The deployment and operational readiness of the F-4s was a testament to their mutual defense and strategic cooperation.

The Phantoms were pivotal in ensuring that ROK and U.S. forces could perform joint air operations, reinforcing strategic deterrence on the peninsula.

With time, the Phantoms’ role evolved. Advanced radar and navigation systems allowed them to continue playing a critical role until the full operational readiness of the KF-16s in 1994.

They also maintained strategic retaliation capabilities, becoming a symbol of immediate response to North Korean provocations.

Now, as the Phantoms take their final bow, South Korea and its U.S. ally continue to enhance their air superiority with next-generation fighter jets like the F-35.

While the Phantom’s military service ends, its legacy endures, informing the ongoing development of air combat technology and strategy.

Relevant articles:
– Decommissioning the trusty F, Asia Times