Bangso, Mads Naval Phantoms

A Complete Visual History of the US Navy's F-4 Squadrons

The F-4 Phantom was arguably the finest fighter jet in the U.S. Navy, fulfilling a diverse range of roles at the heart of carrier operations. Fourteen regular Carrier Air Wings operated the Phantom for more than two decades. Within each wing, every Phantom squadron had its own markings, typically changing with each deployment. This book is the first comprehensive illustrated guide to the aircraft's appearance in U.S. Navy servicewing by wing, squadron by squadron, and deployment by deployment. It covers everything from the etymology of the markings to paint repairs and includes all Marine Corps squadrons that also served at sea. Featuring over 300 original profiles, close-up views, and action scenes by renowned illustrator and longtime Phantom enthusiast Mads Bangso, the book details camouflage patterns, stencil paintings, and the evolving squadron markings, including those of specialized aircraft such as the CAG machines. The appearance of the Phantom's numerous hardware upgrades is also described and illustrated in detail, from the chin pods to the antennas. After years of work and with over 250 photos and data tables, this is the complete visual reference work on the Phantom squadrons that served as the "teeth" of the US Navy from the 1960s to the 1980s.