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Today in History: F-4 Phantom II makes historic first flight

5/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

On May 27, 1958, the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II made its inaugural flight. This tandem two-seat, twin-engine jet became a key air superiority fighter for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. Over its production run until 1981, 5,195 units were built, marking it as the most-produced American supersonic military aircraft.

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Story summary

On May 27, 1958, the McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II made its inaugural flight. This tandem two-seat, twin-engine jet became a key air superiority fighter for the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force. Over its production run until 1981, 5,195 units were built, marking it as the most-produced American supersonic military aircraft.