Shaw, Robbie F-4 Phantom in the Air

Aerial Photographs of the Famous Cold War Interceptor and Fighter-Bomber

This book offers a photographic exploration of the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom, captured by Robbie Shaw during his time as an air traffic controller with the RAF. The F-4 Phantom, which made its maiden flight in 1958, became a versatile combat aircraft that excelled as both an air superiority fighter and a ground attack bomber. It served with distinction in the US Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force in various models such as the F-4C, F-4G and F-4E, and was used worldwide by NATO allies, Israel, Egypt and many others. Shaw's collection of air-to-air photographs, taken during seven flights, shows the Phantom in a variety of roles and environments. These images include variants such as the RF-4C, F-4C/D/E/F/G/J/K, taken during flights with the RAF, USAF, Luftwaffe and others. Additional photos from Shaw's friends in the Falkland Islands, Europe and South Korea further enrich the book. The Phantom, which saw action primarily in the Vietnam War and the Gulf War, was in service for over six decades. After being decommissioned from frontline service, it was also used as a target drone. The Phantom will remain in service in countries such as Greece, Turkey and Iran until 2024, making it one of the longest-serving military aircraft in history.