1:32 Fighter F-5E ”Tiger II” 1:32

1:32 Fighter F-5E ”Tiger II”

The F-5E Tiger II is a single-seat lightweight fighter developed by Northrop along with its two-seat counterpart, the F-5F. This design was a follow-on of the companys earlier F-5A/B Freedom Fighter developed in the late 1950s for export to allied nations. The F-5E/F featured an enlarged fuselage for more fuel capacity, up-rated J85 afterburning engines, a radar, and the ability to accommodate a variety of avionics and weapons options to suit specific customers.

While the basic F-5E/F could carry unguided bombs and AIM-9 Sidewinders, the more elaborate versions were equipped with radar homing and warning (RHAW), electronic countermeasures, chaff/flare dispensers, and additional communications systems. One of the more elaborate versions was delivered to the Royal Saudi Air Force and included AGM-65 Maverick capabilities along with the above options. Over time, the F-5E/F airframes were updated with newer radar sets, glass cockpits, and additional weapons capabilities.

While the F-5E/F never served in front-line service with the US military, the F-5Es performance was so close to the MiG-21 that it was a natural choice to serve with the USAF aggressors and USN adversary squadrons.