British

031653 - McDONNELL-DOUGLAS F-4 PHANTOM IN THE AIR: Aerial Photographs of the Famous Cold War Interceptor and Fighter-Bomber

By Robbie Shaw

This stunning book offers a unique photographic exploration of the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom, captured by Robbie Shaw during his time as an Air Traffic Controller in the RAF. The F-4 Phantom, first flown in 1958, became a versatile warplane, excelling as both an air superiority interceptor and a ground-attack bomber. It served with distinction in the US Navy, Marines, and Air Force, with various models like the F-4C, F-4G, and F-4E, and was used globally by NATO allies, Israel, Egypt, and many others.

Shaw’s breathtaking collection of air-to-air photographs, taken during seven flights, showcases the Phantom in a variety of roles and settings. These images include variants like the RF-4C, F-4C/D/E/F/G/J/K, captured while flying with the RAF, USAF, Luftwaffe, and others. Additional photos from Shaw’s friends in the Falklands, Europe, and South Korea further enrich the book.

The Phantom, famously used in the Vietnam and Gulf Wars, continued in service for over six decades. It was also used as a target drone after retiring from front-line duties. As of 2024, the Phantom remains in service with countries like Greece, Turkey, and Iran, making it one of the longest-serving military aircraft in history.