If you’ve been following Vintage Aviation News, you know that we occasionally veer from our focus on classic warbirds to cover exceptional aircraft that continue to make history. This is one of those occasions. The mighty F-4 Phantom II, one of the most iconic fighter jets of all time, remains in active service and continues to impress. While it doesn’t strictly qualify as a “warbird” due to its airworthy status with air forces in Iran, Greece, and Turkey, its legacy and level of awesomeness are undeniable. The only privately owned, airworthy Phantom is the Collings Foundation’s F-4D.
Fortunately, the Türk Hava Kuvvetleri (Turkish Air Force, or THK) keeps the Phantom’s legacy alive with its active fleet of F-4Es. This past weekend, the Turkish Air Force celebrated 50 years of Phantom operations in a spectacular event led by the 111 Filo “Panter” squadron. The celebration included close-formation flybys, an impressive “elephant walk,” and a stunning display at the Phantom’s last primary operating base in Turkey.
As always, Joe Baugher’s excellent website serves as a highly detailed and reliable source for aviation history, highlighting the milestones of the mighty Rhino with the Turkish Air Force. Turkey’s relationship with the Phantom began in the 1970s, with the nation eventually acquiring 233 F-4Es and RF-4Es through a combination of new production orders and NATO transfers. Under the Peace Diamond I program, the first batch of 40 new-build F-4Es arrived in 1974, despite delays caused by a U.S. arms embargo following Turkey’s intervention in Cyprus. These aircraft initially served with 161 Filo at 6 Ana Jet Üs (Air Base) before transitioning to other squadrons, including 7 Air Base at Erhaç.
Over the years, Turkey bolstered its Phantom fleet through additional programs such as Peace Diamond III (1977), which introduced 32 more F-4Es and eight RF-4Es, and Peace Diamond IV (1987), which brought in 40 ex-USAF F-4Es. These aircraft were distributed among squadrons across the country, modernizing Turkey’s tactical capabilities and replacing aging platforms like the F-100 Super Sabre.
The 50th-anniversary celebration of Turkish Phantom operations was an unforgettable experience for aviation enthusiasts. On Saturday, October 16th, the anniversary jet—painted in special markings—joined another standard-livery F-4E for high- and low-speed passes over a river valley, captivating photographers and onlookers. The raw power of the Phantom, paired with its unmistakable silhouette, reminded all present of its Cold War heritage and enduring prowess. The event was expertly organized by the Türk Hava Kuvvetleri (Turkish Air Force, or THK) and 111 Filo “Panter” Participants received a beautifully designed brochure showcasing the illustrious career of the Mighty Phantom in Turkish service. Click on THIS LINK to download it.
On the afternoon of Sunday, November 17th, the anniversary jet took to the skies from Eskişehir as part of a four-ship formation, making several flybys over the base. Meanwhile, six additional F-4Es taxied from various hardened aircraft shelters to the opposite end of the runway. Upon the four ship’s return and landing, all ten aircraft assembled on the ground to execute an elephant walk—an airpower exercise that showcases the readiness of a large fleet, often conducted to prepare for major contingencies or to mark special commemorations.
Türk Hava Kuvvetlerimizin envanterinde 50’nci yılını dolduran F-4E/2020 savaş uçaklarımız; 50’nci yıla özel olarak pistte “Fil Yürüyüşü” yaptı ve vadide “Alçak İrtifa Eğitim Uçuşu” gerçekleştirdi.#turkishphantom 🇹🇷#MillîSavunmaBakanlığı pic.twitter.com/i1x3qGcShr
— T.C. Millî Savunma Bakanlığı (@tcsavunma) November 17, 2024
While Turkey boasts a formidable fleet of F-16 Fighting Falcons, efforts to acquire additional jets have faced delays. Ongoing negotiations for Eurofighter Typhoons and speculation about rejoining the F-35 program continue to dominate discussions. However, for now, no agreements have been finalized. This means that the F-4 Phantom II will remain a staple of Turkish skies, ensuring its powerful roar will continue to echo for years to come. The Turkish Air Force’s steadfast commitment to maintaining and celebrating this legendary aircraft exemplifies the Phantom’s unparalleled impact on aviation history. As one of the last bastions of active-duty F-4 operations, Turkey ensures the legacy of the mighty Rhino lives on.
Born in Milan, Italy, Moreno moved to the U.S. in 1999 to pursue a career as a commercial pilot. His aviation passion began early, inspired by his uncle, an F-104 Starfighter Crew Chief, and his father, a military traffic controller. Childhood adventures included camping outside military bases and watching planes at Aeroporto Linate. In 1999, he relocated to Atlanta, Georgia, to obtain his commercial pilot license, a move that became permanent. With 24 years in the U.S., he now flies full-time for a Part 91 business aviation company in Atlanta. He is actively involved with the Commemorative Air Force, the D-Day Squadron, and other aviation organizations. He enjoys life with his supportive wife and three wonderful children.
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