F-5C Skoshi Tiger Bien Hoa AFB Die-Cast Model

Serving in the Skoshi Tiger Project, 64-13332 was stationed at Bien Hoa Air Base.

Tested operationally during four months of the Vietnam conflict, Northrop’s F-5C “Skoshi Tiger” was assigned to the 4503rd Tactical Fighter Wing during 1965. Identified as 64-13332, this aircraft was one of 12 that contributed to the more than 3,500 sorties in their unit. Operating from Bien Hoa Air Base, the program was reported as a success, continuing their duties as the 10th Fighter Commando Squadron with an additional 5 aircraft. As one of the surviving aircraft, 13332 was turned over to South Vietnam in 1967 to be part of the VNAF 522nd Squadron. Providing ground support against North Vietnamese forces, it would replace the A-37 Dragonfly and A-1 Skyraider as primary strike aircraft.

Features:

• Authentic paint scheme, engraved panel lines, printed decals, antennas, and surface details
• Deployed or retracted landing gear
• Open or closed canopy with pilot figurine
• Display stand included
• Measures 7.75”l with a 4.25” wingspan at 1:72 scale
• Officially licensed

History and Specifications:
Targeting low cost of operation and high performance, Northrop’s team was to design the F-5A around its pair of General Electric J85 engines. Though first prototypes had the engines placed under the wings, engineer Welko Gasich insisted that the turbojets were placed close inside the fuselage. Beginning to form the recognizable Freedom Fighter shape, F-5A and B models were sleek with thin wings and large tail surfaces. Fitted with several underwing pylons for ground attack and wingtip rails for air-to-air missiles, the early F-5s were well suited to mixed combat duties. Exported to several allied nations, the aircraft led to the development of the subsequent F-5E Tiger II design, which soon equipped nations such as Taiwan, Norway, Vietnam, Iran, and the Netherlands. At the end of 1972, 624 F-5A and 200 F-5B aircraft were produced by Northrop.