When it first emerged towards the end of the 1950s, it represented a generational step from the first postwar jets and later 'Century Series' aircraft, to the modern high-tech fighters such as the F-16. The Phantom was the most significant fighter-bomber aircraft to serve with the US Navy and Marine Corps, and the US Air Force. It was also the most numerous and significant aircraft type to participate in the Vietnam War. Apart from being an iconic US aircraft it was also a hugely successful international design and was purchased by the UK, Australia, Egypt, Germany, Greece, Iran, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Spain and Turkey.

This detailed new volume provides an in-depth, comprehensive study of the development of the F-4 Phantom, tracing its full service deployment with the USAF, USN, and USMC, as well as with the air forces of a host of countries around the globe. The author also covers in detail the F-4 Phantom's role both as a tactical nuclear strike aircraft and an air defense interceptor for the US and UK air forces.