F-5 Freedom Fighter "Tiger"

By Northrop Grumman



In April of 1962, the DOD announced it had chosen the aircraft for its Military Assistance Program. This was a program put in place to assist America's NATO and SEATO allies. With the advent of the F-5, these allies would now have the opportunity to acquire a supersonic warplane of world-class quality at reasonable cost. When the aircraft was sent to Vietnam with the 4503 Tactical Fighter wing for operational service trials, the program's code name was "Skoshi Tiger ("little Tiger"). It was during this tour of duty the F-5A picked up its "Tiger" nickname.

The F-5 was utilized for training at the US Navy Fighter Weapons School) the so-called "Top Gun" school at NAS Miramar near San Diego, CA. The Northrop entry was declared the winner of the IFA (International Fighter Aircraft) competition on November 20, 1970. The F-5 was a factor in an air-superiority roll against the late-generation MiG-21s.

The F-5 family has served long and well and recent estimates show that the F-5 can be operated at one third of what it costs to operate an F/A-18. Kit Pack is proud to have supported this aircraft over the years by providing parts such as this Relay Box:

Outside view: Relay Box 8752657-30
	Inside view

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