A Cold War legend still operational today

The F‑4E‑2020 “Terminator” of the Turkish Air Force continues to turn heads. Deeply modernized by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in the late 1990s, it represents one of the last evolutions of the iconic McDonnell Douglas F‑4 Phantom II, originally designed in the 1960s.

An ambitious modernization to extend its service life

The Turkish version received a comprehensive overhaul:

• High‑performance EL/M‑2032 radar
• Modernized cockpit with multifunction displays and HOTAS controls
• Compatibility with targeting pods, datalinks, and electronic warfare systems
• Ability to deploy modern weapons such as:
  • AGM‑142 Popeye
  • The Turkish SOM cruise missile

Thanks to these upgrades, the Terminator remains a formidable aircraft for long‑range strike missions.

A rare aircraft, still active until 2030

While most nations have retired the Phantom, Turkey continues to operate it effectively. The F‑4E‑2020 regularly participates in international exercises such as Anatolian Eagle, demonstrating its relevance despite its age.

111 Filo: the last Turkish Phantom squadron

111 Filo “Panther Squadron,” based in Eskişehir, is currently the only operational Turkish unit flying the F‑4E‑2020.
Its unique expertise makes it a reference in strategic strike operations.