Hobby 2000 – H2K72082 – F-4K Phantom FG.1 Late vol.2

Description:

The F-4K Phantom FG.1 was a British naval variant of the legendary McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II, specifically adapted for operations with the Royal Navy. It was designated FG.1 (Fighter/Ground attack, Mark 1) and served primarily with the Fleet Air Arm, operating from aircraft carriers like HMS Ark Royal, as well as with the Royal Air Force later in its life.

Key adaptations of the FG.1 from the U.S. Navy F-4J included:

• Spey turbofan engines, built by Rolls-Royce, which provided better low-altitude performance and shorter takeoff runs, but required extensive airframe modifications including larger intakes and a reprofiled rear fuselage.
• Nosewheel extension strut, allowing for a steeper angle of attack on carrier catapult launches.
• British avionics and radar systems, particularly the Ferranti AN/AWG-11 radar.

Although initially deployed by the Royal Navy’s 892 Naval Air Squadron, only a limited number were produced (around 52 units), and the aircraft were later transferred to the RAF after the phasing out of fixed-wing carrier aviation in the UK. In RAF service, they were used in the air defence role under squadrons such as No. 43 and No. 111 at RAF Leuchars.

Fujimi plastic kit update with new decal sheet printed by Cartograf with 4 new markings, two Royal Navy and two for RAF. Include also paint mask.

Markings:

• XT868 – 892 Naval Air Squadron, Royal Navy, 20 June 1977
• XV587 – 892 NAS, HMS Ark Royal, Malta, 8 October 1974
• XV587 – No. 43 Squadron RAF, Mildenhall, 24 May 1986
• XV582 – No. 111 Squadron RAF, Leuchars, September 1989