[Zhangliqun]

But can the Hornet handle the Phoenix missile system which can simultaneously track and shoot down 6 targets at ranges "in excess" of 54 miles? I think not. No other fighter in the world has that kind of stand-off capability.

I think giving up the F-14 is a bad idea...

[Young Werther]

Don't need the Phoenix System anymore. Handling six targets simultaneously was a an answer to a Soviet threat. In fact, replace the F-14 with unmanned fighters and you can accomplish the same mission with less angst for the pilot since there is none. An aircraft carrier equipped in this manner could sortie with a hundred unmanned fighters which would protect the fleet and sweep the skies.

It's the 21st Century. Let's equip for 21st Century threats.

[demlosers]

The Navy should be wise to do this phase out over many number of years until they finally get a new hot shot 'Air superiority' fighter that can take over.

[ken5050]

That's exacly why..the radar was obsolete the day the plane went into service..because in order to track all the missiles, the plane had to radiate..making it a nice big target..

[ArmyBratproud]

Like the F-16...I don't think the 14 will go away so quickly.

I'm sure some will be held for reserve.

Those birds have served their country well.

Some of them could be used for recruiting. You let some young man or woman sit in that cockpit...and they may be even more inclined to go after the goal of flying.
They may even study harder in school. Even if they decide later to do something else when they get out of school, at least they had a push.

[dagar]

But they're not doing that now. They're used as attack aircraft. Agree with you but they're past that ... no Soviet Backfires coming over the Kola anymore.... CHICOMS are a different matter but their subs are too.

[Oztrich Boy]

But can the Hornet handle the Phoenix missile system which can simultaneously track and shoot down 6 targets at ranges "in excess" of 54 miles? I think not. No other fighter in the world has that kind of stand-off capability

There's always the Vympel R-77M, or the Matra/BAe Meteor. Someone will always have that capabilty