The McDonnell Douglas Phantom F-4J(UK) was a unique breed within the RAF’s inventory. Tony Clay examines the type’s short yet colourful service history

With the type’s imminent withdrawal, 74 Squadron flew an impressive diamond nine of F-4J(UK)s towards the end of 1990
ALL IMAGES TONY DIXON UNLESS STATED
The unmistakable profile of five F-4 Phantoms loomed ever closer to the destination of RAF Wattisham in Suffolk. Just before reaching the airfield, the escorting Phantom FGR.2s from 56Squadron climbed away, leaving the other three to break into the circuit and land. It was clear that this trio was different to the other F-4s resident at Wattisham.