Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:26:26-2:27:09

Phantom or Crusader depends on whether combat is required

For combat, a gunless F-4 Phantom II offers more ability to disengage, while the F-8 Crusader is the more attractive choice for ordinary flying.

Air CombatF-4 Phantom IIFighter AircraftNaval AviationVought F-8 Crusader
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

Would you choose an F-4 Phantom II without a cannon or an F-8 Crusader?

Short answer

For combat, the Phantom because it has better options to disengage; for ordinary flying, probably the Crusader.

Notes

Combat utility and the pleasure of flying an aircraft lead to different choices. A Phantom without an internal cannon still offers enough performance and options to break away from a bad engagement. That makes it the preferred aircraft when air-to-air combat is part of the scenario. If no fighting is required, the F-8 Crusader is more attractive. Equipment comparisons need a mission before they can produce a meaningful winner.