Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series HA3318
Northrop/STAE RF-5E Tigergazer Diecast Model
ROCAF 8th TFG, #5501, Taoyuan AB, Taiwan, 2008 |
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Northrop/STAE RF-5E Tigergazer | | 7.75" | | 4.5" |
In August 1997 the ROCAF began to receive their single-seat RF-5E’s to replace the aging RF-104G. Seven low-hour F-5E’s were converted by Singapore Aerospace and given the name “Tigergazer”. To accomplish this, existing radar and one M39 cannon were removed and the nose extended 8 inches. Six openings were added for the new cameras and ballast added between the engine exhausts to balance the additional weight of the new nose. RF-5E 5501 serial 83-0085 and formerly F-5E 5315 was assigned to 401st TFW, 12th TRS “Tigergazer” at Hualien Airbase. On July 1, 1998 401st CW relocated to Hualien and Taoyuan Air Base Command was established at Taoyuan and took control of the 8th TFG. The 4th TRS was activated under the control of the 8th TFG and took over the RF-5Es at Taoyuan.
Designed partly to meet a US Navy requirement 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 Navy withdrew its 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 US. 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 training and "aggressor" aircraft, acting as the opposing force during military wargames. © Copyright 2003-2025 The Flying Mule, Inc.
Hobby Master's 1:72 scale F-5 Tiger II is a sleek and fast looking model that uses a clever mix of metal and plastic components with near-seamless construction. The solid metal wing has sharp-edged plastic leading edge root extensions appropriate to the variant being modeled. The removable canopy provides a clear view of the cockpit's interior features such as the pad-printed front and side mounted instrument panels. Landing gear and doors have been included as one piece sub-assemblies that allow for quick and easy configuration for ground display. The series covers both fighter variants with optional ordnance configurations (see photos) and the long nose reconnaissance variant.
© Copyright 2003-2016 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft.
Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" diecast airplanes feature:
- Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
- Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
- Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
- Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
- Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
© Copyright 2003-2025 The Flying Mule, Inc.
