] I would assume because few operate F-4’s in a strike role. Let alone a Air Defense one.
AFAIK from my accidental research, the previous F-X, such as F-104 and F-4, trained in air-to-mud and CAS ops, such as up in Aomori Prefecture and Hokkaidou.
Sometimes (very rare), they strafed the wrong objects (civilian bulldozer, golf course, or rehab centre).
Don’t think I’ve read any such training with the current F-X = F-15 though, as the F-1 (retired), F-2, and F-4 drivers already get to haul around the air-to-mud and air-to-surface ordnance.
Thus, instead of F-22 replacing F-4, IMO the concept should be: F-22 (or whichever ATF that becomes the next F-X) phasing in, F-4 phasing out.
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