McDonnell Douglas F-4G Phantom II Fighter-Bomber Aircraft “Wild Weasels, 69-7253, 561st TFS, 35th TFW, George AFB” (1991) United States Air Force “Air Power Series” 1/72 Diecast Model by Hobby Master

Product Description

HISTORY ASPECTS:
The F-4G Phantom II Wild Weasel, tail number 69-7253, served with the 561st Tactical Fighter Squadron, 35th Tactical Fighter Wing, based at George Air Force Base in California during 1991. Designed specifically for the dangerous role of Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses (SEAD), the F-4G was an extensively modified version of the F-4E. It replaced the gun with advanced electronic warfare equipment, including the APR-38 radar homing and warning system, enabling it to detect, identify, and target enemy surface-to-air missile (SAM) sites. As part of the 561st TFS, 69-7253 participated in the rigorous training cycles that prepared crews for combat operations in the Middle East, particularly the unfolding Gulf War.
Aircraft like 69-7253 were critical to Operation Desert Storm, where Wild Weasels flew ahead of strike packages to locate and destroy Iraqi radar and missile batteries. The 561st TFS deployed to the region, flying dangerous missions that required them to deliberately draw enemy radar fire to expose targets. F-4G crews often worked in hunter-killer teams with F-16C fighters, with the Phantom designating and suppressing threats while the F-16 delivered precision ordnance. The bravery of Wild Weasel crews, including those flying 69-7253, helped pave the way for coalition air dominance, ensuring strike aircraft could operate with reduced risk from Saddam Hussein’s integrated air defense network.
Beyond Desert Storm, the F-4G Wild Weasels continued to serve into the early 1990s, participating in post-war enforcement of no-fly zones over Iraq and contributing to NATO operations in Europe. Aircraft such as 69-7253 stood as symbols of the transition period between the Vietnam-era F-4 and the newer F-16CJ Wild Weasel. Their service at George AFB in 1991 marked one of the last chapters in the Phantom’s storied combat career, as the base itself closed shortly thereafter and the Wild Weasel mission moved on to newer platforms.
This 1:72 scale model captures the distinctive look and mission of one of the most legendary SEAD aircraft ever built. With authentic squadron markings it makes a perfect centerpiece for collectors and aviation enthusiasts, honoring the daring missions of the crews who flew into danger to protect others.