F-4E Phantom. Photo: X @tcsavunma
The Turkish Air Force marked 50 years of operations with the iconic F-4E Phantom in a grand event at the Eskişehir Air Base in the northwest of the country. The celebration, held on November 16 and 17, featured impressive aerial displays and a rare “elephant walk,” showcasing the power and legacy of the legendary jet.
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Despite its advanced age and rumors of replacement, the F-4E Phantom remains a key element of Turkey’s military aviation. The aircraft’s longevity is a testament to its durability and Turkey’s strategic needs in a challenging aerial environment.
Highlights of the Celebration
The centerpiece of the event was the F-4E with serial number 77-0303, specially painted for the occasion in a red and black anniversary scheme. The upper fuselage featured a massive Turkish flag, while the underside was decorated with “Spook,” the iconic character associated with the Phantom community since the 1950s.
On Saturday, November 16, the commemorative jet and another F-4E in standard livery performed high- and low-speed flybys over a nearby river valley, about two and a half hours from Eskişehir. The spectacle provided a unique opportunity for photographers and aviation enthusiasts to capture the power and elegance of this classic Cold War fighter.
On Sunday, November 17, the festivities culminated in an “elephant walk,” where a quartet of F-4Es, including the commemorative jet, flew over the base multiple times before landing. On the ground, they joined six other Phantoms that taxied to form an impressive formation. This exercise, aside from its operational role during contingencies, symbolized the readiness and strength of the 111th “Panther” Squadron.
The Legacy of the F-4E Phantom in Turkey
Since its introduction to the Turkish Air Force half a century ago, the F-4E Phantom has played a crucial role in defense missions and strategic operations. Locally known as the “Rhino,” the aircraft has become a symbol of aerial power, particularly in the challenging environments around the Anatolian region.
The event at Eskişehir was not just a celebration of a historic milestone but also a gradual farewell to an aircraft that has served with distinction. Although its future remains uncertain, the Phantom continues to be an icon of Turkish military aviation, leaving a lasting legacy for generations of pilots and enthusiasts.
With spectacular aerial displays and an unforgettable showcase of firepower, Turkey paid a fitting tribute to its legendary “hunter of the skies.”
Source and images: X @tcsavunma. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
