What
Jagdgeschwader 71, the Luftwaffe's final fighter wing to operate the F-4 Phantom.

Where
Wittmund, Germany.

When
25 February 2008.

Objective
To create awareness of the massive amount of operations still being fulfilled by the venerable F-4 Phantom.


Photo opportunity
Full day of photography on the ground, including daylight and nighttime operations.


Gathering of information
Interview with the deputy commander of the fighter wing and informal talks with other pilots.


Article quote
"Despite the retirement of its Phantoms now well in sight, Jagdgeschwader 71 saw more flying activity than any other German wing in 2007 for the second consecutive year. With an upcoming deployment to Lithuania, involvement in several exercises in Europe and the United States, plus a 24/7 readiness to intercept unidentified aircraft over Germany, it looks as though the fighter wing will not relinquish that position for at least another year."

Response
"Thank you very much for the news that the article will be published in AirForces Monthly, which is a very interesting magazine."
     LtCol Gerhard Roubal, deputy commander JG71