[Broker]

The F-14 aircombat records reveal few actual shoot-downs of enemy combatants. Specifically 4 Libyans and 1 Iraqi helo. All these were accomplished with the Sidewinder (heat-seeking) missles and not the much heralded Phoenix Missle. The Phoenix system was designed exclusively for the Tomcat as a tool to “Fire and forget” six hostile targets. We must guess the Iranians have no way to maintain Phoenix systems air to air capabilities and will hang Sidewinders or similar devices. Suspect F-14 platform will be for their cruise missles or a suicide aircraft to attach CAPITAL targets (CVs).

[Broker]

Yes, The F-14 itself is a guided missile. Aircraft Carriers in the Persian Gulf need to closely monitor their air radar, Squawk IDs and authentication procedures. Battle groups sea whiz and SA missile systems; up and ready????

[Fred Hayek]

The main intent of the long ranged AIM-54 Phoenix was to deal with incoming Bears, Badgers, later Backfires, and incoming Kingfish and Kitchens. Now the AIM-120D has a similar range, in a smaller, lighter package.