Northrop F-5A Freedom Fighter 

HAF 343 Mira Asteri, no. 69138, Mikra AB, Greece, 1996

Hobby Master 1:72   HA33003

In the mid-1960s, the U.S. Air Force's 10th Fighter Commando Squadron (FCS) played a critical role in Project Skoshi Tiger, an experimental program to deploy the F-5 Freedom Fighter to Vietnam. The squadron tested the F-5's combat effectiveness in real-world conditions from Bien Hoa Air Base. These compact, agile aircraft performed close air support, interdiction, and ground attack missions, often in high-threat areas. The Skoshi Tiger was designed to assess the F-5's potential as an affordable, exportable fighter for allied nations. The 10th FCS demonstrated the F-5's capabilities, paving the way for its adoption by many U.S. allies around the world.

Northrop F-5C Skoshi Tiger

Designed in part to meet the US Navy's demand for a low-cost, low-maintenance fighter to operate from escort carriers, the F-5 first flew on July 30, 1959. Development of the F-5 continued even after the withdrawal of naval escort carriers, and the aircraft eventually evolved into the light supersonic “Freedom Fighter”, serving US allies during the Cold War and as a supersonic trainer in the USA. The second-generation F-5 (“Tiger II”) also served US allies, but because it was small and maneuverable like a MiG, it was also used by the US military as a trainer and “aggressor”, acting as the opposing force during military wargames.

Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature:

• Molded metal construction with plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Inscriptions and posters printed with a stamp that do not fade or fall off like decals.
• opening of awnings, revealing detailed within the cockpit.
• Extended / retracted interchangeable landing gear.
• Display stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Authentic detachable artillery cargoes complete with placards.