In our fifth and final photo report from AFW 2023, we cover the Phabulous McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantoms of 338 Squadron (338 Mira "ARES"). The squadron is named after Ares, the Greek god of war.

Homebased at Andravida Air Base, 338 Squadron is the last squadron in the Hellenic Air Force to operate the venerable Phantom. These Phantoms underwent an Avionics Upgrade Program (Peace Icarus 2000), upgrading everything from the radar to the navigation systems, added a MIL standard 1553 databus and colour displays. The squadron operates in the fighter-bomber role, flying everything from interception to long range strike missions.

We had two photo missions with four different Phantoms over the sea near Andravida, and while the aircraft were mostly unarmed, except for a singe AGM-65 Maverick training missile on two of the aircraft, all four of the Phantoms carried LITENING targeting pods.

After the second photo mission we landed at Andravida where we were the guests of 338 Squadron, we were offered cold drinks (which were most welcome.) and coffee, but most importantly of all, we had the opportunity to buy patches and other 338 Mira Phantom goodies.

Once we had filled our boots with swag, we were treated to another surprise... this time we were taken to a Hardened Aircraft Shelter (HAS) where we were allowed to photograph another Phantom. After that we got back into the Skyvan and returned to Tanagra.

A Big Thank You Goes To....

Eric Coeckelberghs and the Aviation PhotoCrew, as well as the Hellenic Air Force, 338 Mira and Athens Flying Week for the opportunity to photograph the Phabulous Phantoms air-to-air.