Advanced RF-4

As most of you know, the RF-4 “Photo Phantom” remains in service with Greece (RF-4E), Turkey (RF-4E), Iran (RF-4E), South Korea (RF-4C), and Japan (RF-4EJ Kai).

Obviously in those respective air forces, it provides a vital if overlooked capability.

In the days of UAV’s and satellites, it seems manned recce assets are dwindling……yet many nations still have manned dedicated recced aircraft as well as multi-role fighters with recce pods…..

As such I’m wondering what all you guys think could be done to make the RF-4 better than it is right now…….anyone have any idea who has the most well-equipped RF-4’s of the nations I listed?

I was thinking perhaps at least using the wrap-around canopy that the USAF tested on a F-4E’s and RF-4C’s…..perhaps giving the aircraft a glass cockpit (has that been done?), and most importantly maybe some new engines that are more powerful and fuel efficient. Can anyone suggest a suitable replacement for the RF-4’s J-79 engines? Something that gives more thrust and is more fuel efficient……….what about the F414 maybe?

Since many RF-4’s carry air-to-air IR missiles for self defense, perhaps integration of the latest generation of IR AAM’s and their helmet sights?

Maybe Turkey and Greece could buy the IRIS-T and its helmet sight. Japan could put the AAM-3 on their birds. South Korea could use the AIM-9X that they will get with the F-15K (although I think perhaps the RF-4C fleet might not have much time left….).

Equipment-wise you could integrate the latest in cameras, IR equipment, ELINT equipment, and perhaps a satellite datalink similar to what is found on the U-2S if possible.

What do you guys think?

What are the possibilities?