Model Description
Hobbymaster 1/72nd scale HA19035 RF-4EJ “501st Squadron Retirement Scheme” 67-6380, JASDF, 2020. Buy online at Flying Tigers.
The F-4J was the last version produced for the USN and USMC. The “J” version was basically an upgraded “B” version with new radar and avionics as well as a better the “J” version is what isn’t there; the infrared seeker under the nose was deleted. Also missing was an internal gun but Sparrow and Sidewinder missiles were used for intercepting. Between 1966 and 1972 there were 522 F-4Js built. The F-4J had the distinction of scoring the only USMC air-to-air combat victory in Vietnam and it also was the last US operational aircraft inSouth East Asia. In mid 1970 the F-4 Phantom II was being replaced by the new and improved F-14 Tomcat.
The JASDF 501st Squadron was formed December 1, 1961 flying 10 RF-86F Sabre aircraft. Built by Mitsubishi in 1976 as an F-4EJ c/n M080 serial 67-8380 was later converted to an RF-4EJ and renumbered as 67-6380 assigned to the 501st Hikotai. On March 9, 2020 the last flight of the RF-4EJ took place as well as a retirement ceremony for this type of aircraft as well as the disbanding of the 501st. RF-4EJ 67-6380 wore what looks like a roll of 35mm film marking the fact that the unit operated from 1961 until 2020.
RRP £100.00
