The McDonnell Douglas F-4C Phantom II was a long-range supersonic jet interceptor aircraft and fighter-bomber that entered service in 1964. It had a top speed of over mach 2.2 and carried over 18,000 pounds of weapons. It served as the principal superior air fighter and had the distinction of being the last U.S. fighter to attain ace status in the 20th century. It remained in use by the U.S. in reconnaissance and Wild Weasel roles until 1996.