Vought F-8EJ Crusader

[Spinners 15,986]

After a long selection process the Vought F-8EJ was finally selected by the JASDF in 1962 as its standard interceptor-fighter. With it's impressive unrefuelled range, reliable Pratt & Whitney J-57-P-20J engine and powerful Magnavox APQ-94J radar the F-8EJ served with a total of eight JASDF squadrons with initial deliveries commencing in late 1964.

 

Compared to the superb multi-role F-8E, and because of Japan's own 'self-defense' status and imposed peace treaty terms, the F-8EJ was stripped of much of it's surface-attack capability but gained a modified APQ-94 radar, wing-mounted AIM-7E Sparrow missiles and also had a very useful anti-ship capability (deemed acceptable as being an 'anti-invasion' capability) and all eight 'Hikotai' had maritime attack and reconnaissance as a secondary role. The F-8EJ's served until the mid-1980's with the 302nd Hikotai being the last to surrender this very popular aircraft in JASDF service in 1985.

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Ngr 105]

very nice mod of F-8