Northrop's F-5 Tiger II

摘要

Conceived as a modest fighter for export almost 50 years ago, Northrop's F-5 family has spread itself across the world. With more than 900 out of 2,617 F-5s built still in service in 26 countries, one can easily justify applying the sobriquet 'ubiquitous' to the aircraft. With the F-5 continuing to serve as a front-line fighter, many operators have had their aircraft upgraded. Other users have modified the type to become lead-in fighter trainers (LIFT) for the new generation of 'glass-cockpit' fighters.