McDonnell Douglas Phantom FG.1 - 1/48

McDonnell Douglas Phantom FG.1 – 1/48

Airfix 1/48 scale plastic model kit of the McDonnell Douglas Phantom FG.1, the British naval version of the two-seat combat aircraft, featuring Royal Navy markings.

About the Model:
- 1/48 scale plastic model assembly kit
- Length: 367 mm
- Wingspan: 181 mm
- Total parts: 285 parts
- Detailed reproduction of the British Phantom FG.1
- Detailed two-seat cockpit with ejection seats
- Slide-moulded air intakes
- Optional extended nose undercarriage leg to depict the aircraft in its carrier launch position
- Comprehensive weapons selection, including air-to-air missiles, 2-inch rocket pods and 1,000 lb bombs
- External fuel tanks included
- Three marking options for Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm aircraft
- Instructions, paint layout sheet and decals included

History:
The McDonnell Douglas Phantom FG.1 was developed specifically for the Royal Navy from the American F-4 Phantom II. Procured under the American designation F-4K, it was intended to replace the de Havilland Sea Vixen as a carrier-based combat aircraft. Its primary role was all-weather fleet air defence, complemented by a ground-attack capability. The first aircraft were delivered to the Royal Navy in 1968.

One of the British Phantom’s most significant features was its pair of Rolls-Royce Spey engines, replacing the American General Electric J79 engines. Their installation required larger air intakes and a redesigned rear fuselage, giving the British aircraft a distinctly different appearance from other Phantom variants. To support catapult launches from Britain’s comparatively short carrier decks, the FG.1 also featured an extendable nose undercarriage leg, increasing the aircraft’s angle of attack during launch.

From 1970, the Phantoms of No. 892 Naval Air Squadron operated aboard HMS Ark Royal. When flying operations from the carrier ended in 1978, the remaining naval Phantoms were transferred to the Royal Air Force, which had already operated its own FG.1 aircraft since 1969. Serving with Nos. 43 and 111 Squadrons at RAF Leuchars, these aircraft subsequently protected British airspace in the air-defence role.