F-4EJ fighter

In this edition, we will put a spotlight on the F-4EJ fighter.

The F-4EJ fighter is a modified version of the U.S. Air Force’s F-4E equipped with Data-Link system to make it a fighter interceptor.

In the 1970s, the F-4EJ was assembled domestically under the license of McDonnel Company.

In the late 1980s, the F-4EJ was upgraded and modernized. The main updates include central computer, head-up display (HUD), Fire Control Systems (FCS) as well as Internal Navigations System (INS). This modernization program allowed consolidation and unified processing of the data from both FCS and INS components. The program also gave Look Down/Shoot Down capabilities that enables to detect, track and guide a weapon to a moving target below the horizon. These modernized F-4EJ with enhanced air-to-air and air-to-ship combat capabilities are known as “F-4EJ Kai” (Kai = Modified in Japanese). The F-4EJ is the guardian protecting the sea and airspace surrounding Japan for over 50 years.

Specifications

• ▷Length: approx. 19.2m
• ▷Wingspan: approx. 11.7m
• ▷Max speed: Mach 2.2
• ▷Equipment: 20mm autocannon, air-to-air-radar-guided missiles, air-to-air-infrared-guided missiles, air-to-surface missile, air-to-surface General Purpose Bomb