Barnstormer, my point is that most of their equipment is old, and wouldn't stand a chance against new kit. One of their top Naval officers reportedly said that they have been conducting exercises to sink US Navy ships - that surely constitutes a threat?
An Air Force buying and operating Phantoms these days like Iran and Japan is a bit like buying an old VW Beetle
Super Hornet, I think you need to study a bit about the history of Iran and the F-4. Iran is not "buying" Phantoms, and has not done so for about 35 years. The last Phantom was delivered new from the factory in 1979. A few Phantoms still serve, a few countries like Germany recently retired them, and most had significant upgrades over the years. The Phantom has had a very good, long, service, and still remains a capable platform.
In case you are not aware in the 1970's the Shah of Iran turned to western equipment and training to make a modern military. Orders from the USA included F-4, F-5, P-3, various helos, 747, C-130, F-14 etc, and others from other sources including France. With the removal of the Shah and the revolution in Iran in 1979 support from the USA and most western countries was lost. Iran has managed to keep these aircraft still in limited service for decades through black market spares purchces, re-engineering and other means.
Iran turned to Russian and Chinese support and has partial success operating some of this equipment, and obtained a few squadrons of Iraqi aircraft including Mirages, transports, MiGs and SU's, fleeing Iraq in the first gulf war.
So cut off from western support due to sanctions, an off and on relationship with Russia/China, and an internal industry that has really only had success in unlicensed repordiction what do you see as the alternatives for Iran? Sure they would like to have modern equipment- who wants to let them have it? No one. Irans nuclear ambitions make most uneasy. Sanctions have been in place.
Yes they are still using aircraft delievered in the 1970's BECAUSE THAT IS WHAT THEY HAVE. Even "old" equipment can still serve, and remains a threat. Is it on par with the latest gear? No.