The USAF’s 82nd Aerial Target Squadron has decided to switch to the F-4 Phantom from the Lear jet for their banner tow missions.
Lt. Col. Ryan Luchsinger, the 82nd ATRS commander, said: “Due to costs, the Navy contract for use of the Lear jets was being cut, and we had no other way to accomplish this training. The F-4 was the perfect platform to tow the banner and ensure we kept their aerial gunnery proficiency.”