Suggestion: F-4N Phantom as the next Navy variant (covers F-4B + F-4N)

[Jazz0611]

Hello Heatblur team,
First, thank you for the outstanding F-4E module, the quality sets a new benchmark in DCS.

I would like to propose the F-4N Phantom as the next Navy variant in the Phantom family.

The F-4N provides several major advantages:

1. Dual-era coverage

   • Because the F-4N is an upgraded F-4B, a single module can cover both:

     • Vietnam-era F-4B (1965–1972)

     • Post-Vietnam fleet defense F-4N (1973–1980)

2. Lower development overhead

   • Same basic airframe as F-4B

   • Minimal structural changes

   • Avionics upgrades easier to model compared to the F-4J or F-4S

   • Reuses more of the F-4E code and cockpit framework

3. High gameplay value

   • Supports Vietnam carriers, early AAW doctrines, MiG engagements

   • Enables Cold War Mediterranean and Atlantic intercept scenarios

   • Bridges the historical gap between F-4B and F-4S

4. Perfect pairing with Heatblur’s design philosophy

   • Historical authenticity

   • High-fidelity ECM/RWR modeling

   • Navy carrier operations

The F-4N is a uniquely efficient and valuable choice: one module, two eras, strong community appeal, and development practicality.

Thank you for considering this suggestion.
Many of us would be extremely excited to see a Navy Phantom, and the F-4N seems to be the ideal candidate.

[Jazz0611]

[Silver_Dragon]

Heatblur, has planned on a F-4 Naval version.

Q: Will there be a Navy F-4?
A: Yes! Our Phantom journey only begins with the -E. However, owing to the complexity of the work and investment of time and effort, it will not be included in the DCS: F-4E product. We’re instead choosing to focus on providing the most content rich F-4E we possibly can, and then set our sights on further telling the legendary story of the F-4.

Last Heatblur Interview:

 

Edited 17 hours ago by Silver_Dragon

[Jazz0611]

5 minutes ago, Silver_Dragon said:

Heatblur, has planned on a F-4 Naval version.

Q: Will there be a Navy F-4?
A: Yes! Our Phantom journey only begins with the -E. However, owing to the complexity of the work and investment of time and effort, it will not be included in the DCS: F-4E product. We’re instead choosing to focus on providing the most content rich F-4E we possibly can, and then set our sights on further telling the legendary story of the F-4.

That is why I would like to suggest the version of the naval Phantom...

[Silver_Dragon]

6 minutes ago, Jazz0611 said:

That is why I would like to suggest the version of the naval Phantom...

Heatblur has confirmed a B/N, but has a future project.

[Biggus]

I'd far prefer a J or an S over a B or an N.  The pulse doppler radar, the longer service life and the greater commonality with the RAF Phantoms all sway me in that direction.  But different things will appeal to different people.