General Information

The CARF-Models F4 Phantom II is a 1:4.5 scale, extremely detailed replica of the iconic McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom fighter jet with a wing span of 264 cm and a dry weight of <37-40 kg (81-88 lb). It's an exhaustively detailed all-composite construction. Even though the base model is painted white or silver in the molds, it can be ordered individually in any scale scheme you have in mind. The F-4 Phantom is the most scaled and detailed scale jet in this century and, undoubtedly, the best achievement of the CARF Legacy.

Surface Design

The surface of the CARF Models F-4 Phantom is a standout feature of this scale model, designed to replicate the look and feel of the original military jet. The exterior surface is made from a high-quality, hand-laid composite material that ensures durability and lightness. The entire model uses composite sandwich construction, providing strength while keeping the weight manageable. The surface can come in various pre-painted schemes, mirroring the historical paint jobs of actual F-4 Phantom jets, or it can be left unpainted (white) for custom paint schemes.

Outline Perfection

The outline perfection of the F4 Phantom is a result of precise engineering and design that brings the real F4 Phantom's iconic shape to life in scale form. The fuselage shape, including the iconic bulbous nose, wide intakes, and distinct canopy, is replicated to perfection, maintaining the same aggressive and assertive stance as the full-scale Phantom. The tail of the F-4 is crafted to match the exact angles and dimensions of the real aircraft, like the wings' front slats for the landing process.

Retractable Landing Gear

The landing gear is modeled after the actual F4 Phantom’s gear, making it highly realistic in appearance and function. It is a retractable tricycle-type landing gear. The detailed struts are designed to replicate the complex geometry of the original aircraft, including trailing links and suspension components. Our landing gear is based on Electron electronics matched with our own scale details, including high-quality 3D printed parts, hydraulic lines, brake calipers, and wheel hubs that mimic the look of the full-size F4. 

Engine Choices

A twin-engine powered jet plane usually carries quite a lot of equipment like the underwing stations, including a centerline tank, drop tanks, travel pods, sidewinders, sparrows, and other weapons. The F4 is still a very satiable flying aircraft with all this equipment onboard. Using two reliable 235-260N Engines makes this plane enjoyable all the time. Engines that size will give the F4 nearly the perfect weight/thrust ratio the actual airplane should. Two CARF-manufactured thrust tubes for the big F4's fuselage will be perfectly fitted to the engines during the turbine installation.

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Weathering and Hot Section

The weathering and breathtaking hot section of the F4 Phantom are key areas where scale realism truly shines beyond its standards. The use of advanced painting techniques, airbrushing, and work of very skilled people replicates the effects of heat, grime, and operational wear seen on the full-scale F4 Phantom. These details not only enhance the model's visual appeal but also make it look like a true veteran of the skies.

RC Recommendations

In our PNP builds, we exclusively use MacGregor servos, CARF's choice of brand when demanding torque and reliability. At the same time, we keep the electric power consumption at a minimum, dissipating the least heat and keeping the servos healthy. Unilight lights are a must-have for such an airplane... Lights all around the plane and the afterburners. Two CB220s or PB Competition SR2s will be needed to use the 20+ channels of the Phantom's functions.

Scale Details

Nothing stops RC enthusiasts from playing with their planes' small but impressive features. For example, a moving canopy that can be locked during the take off, an outstanding light system made by UniLight, different afterburner rings, scale speedbrakes in the wing, a moving hook at the tail, and of course, the famous nose lifting for the take off procedure. Not to be left out, our Phantom also carries an actual drag chute, which will be pushed out of the tails chute hatch by hitting a switch on the radio.

Assembly at the field and Transport

Imagine you only need 2 people to assemble this massive airplane on a single stand. Another option is to use 3 stands and assemble the plane yourself. Getting ready for flying takes a while, depending on how much equipment you will install under the wings. Everybody wants to know how to take a considerable jet apart to transport it in his vehicle. The fuselage is separated into three main parts, joint over three 20 mm carbon tubes for the tail, while the front fuselage is hinged with key holes. Besides that, you have two enormous wings, a centerline, and two drop tanks to transport in your SUV, Van, or trailer. Behind those parts, everything else is more or less the same size.  

Flying Performance

The CARF Models F4 Phantom offers a rewarding flying experience that combines the thrill of high performance with the accomplishment of mastering such a detailed, impressive model. The "vibe," as our young F4 pilots said, already starts on the ground, pushing the Phantom to the flight line. Everybody is looking for this incredible plane like never seen before. The speechless view of the wings from behind the tail will make you smile. Then, during the engine start, you'll close the canopy and extend the nose gear before the takeoff. From then on, it was pure enjoyment, flying high-speed low passes with a bit of smoke and pulling up for a considerable half Cuban eight, doing barrel rolls and show center four point or slow rolls. Overall, all the F-4s should be flown more energetically than other planes, not because they can't fly well. More because it will have a better look sitting in the air. The control surfaces are super special, as you need a lot of aileron deflection, besides the lack of use for the rudder caused by the V shape of the wings. For those worried about a twin-engine system, it is also flyable with one engine (our Teampilots were lucky enough to be the chosen ones to test that). The whole experience will be added up by enhanced lighting for excellent flight during either daytime or a sunny evening.

All about the details - Meeting the Original 1:1 F-4 Phantom II

Success - Awards at several international Events