undergoing some repairs and repainting in the colors of NATF NAS Lakehurst, NJ

Built as an F-4B in 1964. Retained at the factory and converted to a YF-4J prototype. Stored at Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ in 1975. To the museum in 1982.

Delivered as a F-4B-19-MC, later converted to YF-4J and served the Naval Air Test Center. From Aug''79 assigned to the Naval Weapons Center and converted to DF-4J drone control aircraft, but continues to carry its YF-4J designation. It then served the Pacific Missile Test Center at Point Mugu (CA) from Oct'81. Returned to NWS in '83, again to PMTC (473) in '84, and was stored at China Lake from Feb'92. To NAD Cherry Point (NC) in Apr'92 and then to Point Mugu for ejection seat trails. To NWTSPM in May'97 and stricken on 9 Jan'03. Preserved China Lake outside main gate since May'12

Built as an F-4B in 1964. Retained at the factory and converted to a YF-4J prototype. Stored at Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ in 1975. To the museum in 1982.

Although built as a regular F-4B in 1964, this aircraft was retained by McDonnell for conversion to YF-4J, which led the way for the next generation of naval Phantoms. Shown in the markings of the Naval Air Test Facility, NAS New Jersey, which operated it from 1960 to 1975

preseved China Lake Museum

In late 1964 three F-4Bs were converted to test numerous improvements to the basic design and designated YF-4J. Improved aerodynamics to lower take-off distances and decrease landing speeds, improved engines, upgraded radar, and better ground attack ability were the primary changes. Over 500 of this version of the Phantom were built between 1966 and 1972. Markings shown on this airframe: Naval Air Test Facility, Naval Air Station, New Jersey, 1974

I would love to hear the roar of a Phantom again. This one sits quietly at the Pima Air Museum.