F-4 Phantoms Phabulous 40th - 1978 Commemorative Book
The International Phantom
Afterburners spewing flames, a Royal Navy FG.1 (F-4K) Phantom of No. 892 Squadron stands ready for catapult. The F-4K is essentially a redesign of the F-4J to accept Rolls Royce Spey engines and British equipment.
In addition to being America's first-line fighter, the F-4 Phantom has become a desired export aircraft, helping to strengthen North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and South East Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO) commitments.
In September 1964, the Phantom became international when the British government contracted with the U. S. government to purchase Phantoms for the Royal Navy and the Royal Air Force.
The U. S. government also made Phantoms available to other friendly nations.