7 Kokudan squadron flies 12 out of the original 14 RF-4E's that have the camera noses. They also are equipped with 17 RF-4EJ Kais that are upgraded F-4EJ Kai interceptors capable of carrying a variety of recce pods. All the F-4 aircraft are being replaced by the Mitsubishi F-2 with reconnaissance being provided by other aircraft.
Originally constructed as an F-4EJ C/N M097 with serial 77-8397 the aircraft was assigned to the 301st Hikotai 7th Air Wing at Hyakuri until the unit moved to the Nyutabaru 5th Air Wing. As an F-4EJ the third number in the serial indicates it is a Tactical Fighter. When the aircraft was upgraded to an RF-4EJ Kai its serial became 77-6397 with the third number becoming a 6 which designates the aircraft as Reconnaissance and assigned to the 501st Hikotai at Hyakuri AB that operates all the RF-4EJ Kai.