F5E Tiger II Specs

Introduction to the F-5E Tiger II

The F-5E Tiger II is a single-seat, twin-engine supersonic fighter aircraft that was designed and built by Northrop Grumman (formerly Northrop Corporation). The aircraft is part of the F-5 series, which has been widely used by various countries around the world due to its versatility, reliability, and affordability. In this article, we will delve into the specs and capabilities of the F-5E Tiger II, exploring its design, performance, and operational history.

Design and Development

The F-5E Tiger II was developed as an improved version of the earlier F-5A and F-5B Freedom Fighter models. The new design incorporated more powerful engines, improved avionics, and enhanced maneuverability. The aircraft features a sleek and aerodynamic design, with a length of 47 feet 4 inches (14.4 meters) and a wingspan of 26 feet 8 inches (8.1 meters). The F-5E has a maximum takeoff weight of 24,722 pounds (11,214 kilograms) and is powered by two General Electric J85-GE-21 turbojet engines, each producing 5,000 pounds of thrust.

Performance and Capabilities

The F-5E Tiger II is a highly agile and maneuverable aircraft, with a maximum speed of over Mach 1.6 (around 1,000 mph or 1,609 km/h) and a service ceiling of 51,800 feet (15,800 meters). The aircraft is equipped with a range of advanced avionics systems, including a radar, navigation, and communication systems. The F-5E is also armed with two 20mm M39A2 cannons and can carry a variety of air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles, as well as bombs and rockets.

Operational History

The F-5E Tiger II has been operated by numerous countries around the world, including the United States, Switzerland, Brazil, and South Korea. The aircraft has seen combat in several conflicts, including the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. The F-5E has also been used for training and reconnaissance missions, and has been popular among aerobatic teams due to its high level of agility and maneuverability.

Specifications

Here are some key specifications of the F-5E Tiger II:

Characteristic	Specification
Length	47 feet 4 inches (14.4 meters)
Wingspan	26 feet 8 inches (8.1 meters)
Height	13 feet 2 inches (4 meters)
Maximum Takeoff Weight	24,722 pounds (11,214 kilograms)
Engines	2 x General Electric J85-GE-21 turbojet engines
Thrust	5,000 pounds per engine
Maximum Speed	Mach 1.6 (around 1,000 mph or 1,609 km/h)
Service Ceiling	51,800 feet (15,800 meters)

🚀 Note: The specifications listed above are for the standard F-5E Tiger II model and may vary depending on the specific configuration and country of operation.

Upgrade and Modernization Programs

Over the years, the F-5E Tiger II has undergone several upgrade and modernization programs to enhance its performance and capabilities. These programs have included avionics upgrades, engine improvements, and the addition of new radar and missile systems. The F-5E has also been used as a testbed for new technologies and systems, including advanced materials and propulsion systems.

Current Status and Future Plans

Although the F-5E Tiger II is no longer in production, many countries continue to operate the aircraft due to its reliability, versatility, and affordability. The F-5E is expected to remain in service for many years to come, with ongoing modernization and upgrade programs aimed at enhancing its performance and capabilities. The aircraft’s legacy as a highly effective and popular fighter aircraft is likely to endure, with the F-5E Tiger II remaining an important part of military aviation history.

In summary, the F-5E Tiger II is a highly capable and versatile fighter aircraft that has been widely used by countries around the world. Its advanced design, powerful engines, and enhanced maneuverability make it an effective and reliable aircraft for a variety of missions, from air-to-air combat to reconnaissance and training. As the F-5E continues to evolve and improve through ongoing modernization programs, its legacy as a highly effective and popular fighter aircraft is likely to endure.