Difference between revisions of "F-5A"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Direct Hit"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/7350-event-export-order-en|2021 Export Order]] event.
+
The F-5's roots begin way back in the mid-1950s. After a tour around Europe and Asia, Northrop's team saw the need for a supersonic fighter that was cheap and easy to maintain. In 1955, the N-156 was formally brought into fruition and work began. It ultimately evolved into the N-156F and although the Navy and Air Force weren't interested in it, Northrop pursued the idea. Several years later in 1962, the DoD formally announced that the N-156F would be its chosen aircraft for the Military Assistance Program (MAP). This led to the F-5A serving with U.S. forces as a cheap and easy-to-maintain fighter and ultimately being one of the best export-type fighters ever built.
 +
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update "Direct Hit"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/7350-event-export-order-en|2021 Export Order]] event, the '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a very strong fighter. It has favorable flight characteristics and excels in dogfighting thanks to its light and small airframe. The F-5A also has 60 countermeasures which are very important at its battle rating for survival. Although the F-5A can only carry two AIM-9Es, the guns are excellent and enemy planes can easily be taken down with a short burst. The F-5A also has an extensive list of bombs and rockets although players should stick to attacking enemy fighters where the F-5A excels at. Nonetheless, players will be satisfied with the F-5A's overall performance and capability.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
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''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
The F-5A has very good flight performance. It turns quite well at around 700 km/h (437.5 mph) and is overall a great dogfighter. Although the engines are weak compared to other fighters, the F-5A can still reach a respectable top speed of 1,443 km/h (~902 mph). However, it does take a while to reach that speed so the F-5A isn't very suited to running down enemy planes or outrunning them. At lower speeds, the F-5A is still quite good but it's ill-advised to be slow with enemy planes nearby. The F-5A's acceleration is also less than stellar which is another reason to stay relatively fast unless absolutely necessary.
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
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|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| ___ || ___ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 1,460 || 1,443 || 26.9 || 27.0 || 159.1 || 133.6
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
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The F-5A has neiter armour plates nor bulletproof glass and the fuel tanks are self-sealing.
+
The F-5A has neither armour plates nor bulletproof glass and the fuel tanks are self-sealing.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
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* A choice between two presets:
+
* 2 x 20 mm M39A2 cannons, nose-mounted (280 rpg = 560 total)
−
** 2 x 20 mm M39A2 cannons, nose-mounted (280 rpg = 560 total)
+
* 60 x countermeasures
−
** 2 x 20 mm M39A2 cannons (280 rpg = 560 total) + 60 x countermeasures
 
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
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{{main|LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)}}
 
−
{{main|AGM-12B Bullpup|AIM-9B Sidewinder|AIM-9E Sidewinder|FFAR Mighty Mouse|Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP}}
 
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
* Without load
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
−
* 2 x AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles
+
|-
 +
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
 +
| rowspan="13" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-5E_(China).png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
 +
| || || 6 || 6 || 6 || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
 +
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
 +
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
 +
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
 +
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
 +
| || || || 1 || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[BLU-1 incendiary]] bombs
 +
| || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
 +
| || 19 || 19 || || 19 || 19 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP]] rockets
 +
| || 4 || || || || 4 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AGM-12B Bullpup]] missiles
 +
| || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AIM-9E Sidewinder]] missiles
 +
| 1 || || || || || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! 150 gal drop tanks
 +
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
 
 +
* 3 x 150 gal drop tanks
 +
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
 
* 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
 
* 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
 
* 5 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,500 lb total)
 
* 5 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,500 lb total)
 +
* 5 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (2,500 lb total)
 
* 5 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (3,750 lb total)
 
* 5 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (3,750 lb total)
 
* 3 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (3,000 lb total)
 
* 3 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (3,000 lb total)
Line 148: Line 193:
 
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 4 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles
 
* 4 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
+
* 5 x BLU-1 incendiary bombs
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 5 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,500 lb total)
+
{{Navigation-End}}
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 5 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (3,750 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 3 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (3,000 lb total)
 
−
* 1 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bomb + 2 x AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles (2,000 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
−
* 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 2 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles
 
−
* 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
−
* 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 6 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 
−
* 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 3 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 
−
* 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 1 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bomb (1,000 lb total)
 
−
* 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 3 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (2,250 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 2 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 6 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 3 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 1 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bomb (1,000 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets + 3 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (2,250 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 2 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 6 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs + 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets (1,500 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 2 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles + 3 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 2 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles + 3 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (2,250 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 1 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bomb (1,000 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 1 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bomb (750 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 3 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (2,250 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 1 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bomb + 2 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles (750 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 2 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles + 1 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bomb (500 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles + 38 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets + 2 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles + 1 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bomb (1,000 lb total)
 
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
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''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
As the F-5A does not have any radar-guided missiles (AIM-7s or equivalent), and it's not particularly fast, it is recommended to stay low and try to avoid the first clash between teams by flying to the side. When flying into the aforementioned engagement zone, pick out single fights or distracted enemies. The AIM-9E is not a reliable weapon and is easy to dodge, so try not to take missile shots from the sides or at a heavily manoeuvring opponent. When the opportunity to dogfight arises, take it only when you're sure other enemies are either distanced or far enough away from your position to not interrupt your fight and pick you off. When in a dogfight, you are almost always superior in manoeuvrability when compared to your opponent. MiG-21s or the J35s will be better in the first turn, but they bleed a lot of speed due to their delta wing design. Avoid their guns in the first turn, and use yours to take them out. While you have only 2 guns, they have a high muzzle velocity, making them easy to aim. The only downside with the cannons is their damage potential: you need to put several rounds on a target to destroy it.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
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''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
 
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
*
+
* Excellent manoeuvrability
 +
* Great amount of countermeasures
 +
* Easy to aim cannons
 +
* Access to relatively powerful ground ordnance (enough to destroy a base in air battles)
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
*
+
* Relatively low top speed
 +
* No radar of any kind
 +
* Poor acceleration below Mach 1
 +
* Mediocre energy retention
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
−
The F-5A Freedom Fighter is a light fighter designed by Northrop in the 1950s. Designed as a private export venture, the aircraft was designed in both fighter and trainer variants (N-156F and N-156T). The F-5A entered service in the 1960s and was widely exported under the US’s Military Assistance Program to developing countries. The F-5A would later be developed into the more advanced F-5E, and later on, serve as the basis of the YF-17 / F/A-18.
+
The F-5A Freedom Fighter is a light fighter designed by Northrop in the 1950s. Designed as a private export venture, the aircraft was designed in both fighter and trainer variants (N-156F and N-156T). The F-5A entered service in the 1960s and was widely exported under the US's Military Assistance Program to developing countries. The F-5A would later be developed into the more advanced F-5E, and later on, serve as the basis of the YF-17 / F/A-18.
  
 
=== Design and development ===
 
=== Design and development ===
 
[[File:Northrop YF-5A.jpg|thumb|The first Northrop YF-5A prototype.]]
 
[[File:Northrop YF-5A.jpg|thumb|The first Northrop YF-5A prototype.]]
−
Design work for the F-5 began in the early 1950s under the leadership of Northrop’s VP of engineering Edgar Schmued, who was well-known for his work in designing the P-51 Mustang and F-86 Sabre with North American Aviation. By 1955, the design team had selected the General Electric J85 engine as the powerplant. That year, the US Navy issued a requirement for a light jet fighter to operate off its escort carriers, and Northrop quickly adapted its prototype design for naval service; however, the Navy requirement disappeared when the escort carriers were retired, and Northrop redesigned its aircraft once again. By this time, the prototypes were designated as the N-156T and N-156F, as trainer and fighter variants, respectively.
+
Design work for the F-5 began in the early 1950s under the leadership of Northrop's VP of engineering Edgar Schmued, who was well-known for his work in designing the P-51 Mustang and F-86 Sabre with North American Aviation. By 1955, the design team had selected the General Electric J85 engine as the powerplant. That year, the US Navy issued a requirement for a light jet fighter to operate off its escort carriers, and Northrop quickly adapted its prototype design for naval service; however, the Navy requirement disappeared when the escort carriers were retired, and Northrop redesigned its aircraft once again. By this time, the prototypes were designated as the N-156T and N-156F, as trainer and fighter variants, respectively.
  
−
The final design of the N-156 would emerge in March of 1956, with a conventional wing design and its two J85 engines mounted in the rear fuselage. While the USAF had little interest in a light fighter such as the N-156F, it selected the N-156T as the replacement of the T-33 Shooting Star, which would go on to enter service as the T-38 Talon. The first YT-38 would fly in July of 1959 and serve as the USAF’s primary trainer, a role it continues to serve today. Meanwhile, the USAF also ordered three N-156F prototypes to fulfil its requirement for a low-cost fighter that could be exported to less developed countries under the Military Assistance Program (MAP). This role was confirmed by the Kennedy administration’s selection of the N-156F as the winner of the F-X competition, for a low-cost fighter to be exported under the MAP program. The N-156F was subsequently renamed the F-5 “Freedom Fighter”.
+
The final design of the N-156 would emerge in March of 1956, with a conventional wing design and its two J85 engines mounted in the rear fuselage. While the USAF had little interest in a light fighter such as the N-156F, it selected the N-156T as the replacement of the T-33 Shooting Star, which would go on to enter service as the T-38 Talon. The first YT-38 would fly in July of 1959 and serve as the USAF's primary trainer, a role it continues to serve today. Meanwhile, the USAF also ordered three N-156F prototypes to fulfil its requirement for a low-cost fighter that could be exported to less developed countries under the Military Assistance Program (MAP). This role was confirmed by the Kennedy administration's selection of the N-156F as the winner of the F-X competition, for a low-cost fighter to be exported under the MAP program. The N-156F was subsequently renamed the F-5 "Freedom Fighter".
  
−
The F-5A’s design centered on its two J85 engines, each producing up to 22 kn of thrust with afterburner. While initial N-156 prototypes had engines mounted mid-wing and ahead of the tail (similar to the F-4), the final design featured a pair of engines at the rear of the vehicle. The F-5 could attain a speed of Mach 1.4 at high altitude and could carry up to 6200 lbs of ordnance on five underwing hardpoints. Being optimized for ground attack, the F-5 lacked an air-to-air radar. However, it could carry two AIM-9 Sidewinders on wingtip pylons along with its nose-mounted 20 mm cannons.
+
The F-5A's design centered on its two J85 engines, each producing up to 22 kn of thrust with afterburner. While initial N-156 prototypes had engines mounted mid-wing and ahead of the tail (similar to the F-4), the final design featured a pair of engines at the rear of the vehicle. The F-5 could attain a speed of Mach 1.4 at high altitude and could carry up to 6200 lbs of ordnance on five underwing hardpoints. Being optimized for ground attack, the F-5 lacked an air-to-air radar. However, it could carry two AIM-9 Sidewinders on wingtip pylons along with its nose-mounted 20 mm cannons.
  
 
=== Operational service ===
 
=== Operational service ===
−
Being designed for export, a total of 624 F-5As were produced by Northrop, including 3 YF-5A prototypes. Another 200 F-5B two-seater aircraft were produced, lacking internal cannons but otherwise combat-ready. Additionally, Canadair produced 140 aircraft under license for the Royal Canadian Air Force, while CASA in Spain produced 70 aircraft. The F-5A was widely exported under the MAP program to countries including Iran, South Korea, the Philippines, Turkey, Greece, and the Republic of China, while Norway, Spain and Canada purchased/produced the aircraft directly. With the success of the F-5A, the USAF acquired 12 airframes from the MAP program for combat trials in Vietnam, under the code name “Skoshi Tiger” (“Little Tiger”); this led to the F-5’s “Tiger” nickname. The Skoshi Tigers received modifications to instruments and the addition of a fueling probe, and were redesignated F-5C.
+
Being designed for export, a total of 624 F-5As were produced by Northrop, including 3 YF-5A prototypes. Another 200 F-5B two-seater aircraft were produced, lacking internal cannons but otherwise combat-ready. Additionally, Canadair produced 140 aircraft under license for the Royal Canadian Air Force, while CASA in Spain produced 70 aircraft. The F-5A was widely exported under the MAP program to countries including Iran, South Korea, the Philippines, Turkey, Greece, and the Republic of China, while Norway, Spain and Canada purchased/produced the aircraft directly. With the success of the F-5A, the USAF acquired 12 airframes from the MAP program for combat trials in Vietnam, under the code name "Skoshi Tiger" ("Little Tiger"); this led to the F-5's "Tiger" nickname. The Skoshi Tigers received modifications to instruments and the addition of a fueling probe, and were redesignated F-5C.
  
−
Later on, the F-5A would lead to more advanced variants. In 1970, Northrop won a competition for a new light export fighter, with a much larger focus on air-to-air combat to counter the threat from late-generation MiG-21s. This aircraft was the [[F-5E]]/F, advanced versions of the earlier F-5A/Bs now renamed “Tiger II”. The F-5E was similarly widely-exported and modified versions are still in service with export customers, and several aircraft served with NAS Miramar (the so-called TOPGUN) as adversary aircraft, mimicking the MiG-21. Finally, the F-5A’s airframe served as the basis of several design studies which culminated in the YF-17 “Cobra”, a light fighter that lost the USAF LightWeight Fighter (LWF) competition to the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The YF-17 would later be enlarged into the F/A-18 Hornet, which is operated by the US Navy as a multirole combat aircraft.
+
Later on, the F-5A would lead to more advanced variants. In 1970, Northrop won a competition for a new light export fighter, with a much larger focus on air-to-air combat to counter the threat from late-generation MiG-21s. This aircraft was the [[F-5E]]/F, advanced versions of the earlier F-5A/Bs now renamed "Tiger II". The F-5E was similarly widely-exported and modified versions are still in service with export customers, and several aircraft served with NAS Miramar (the so-called TOPGUN) as adversary aircraft, mimicking the MiG-21. Finally, the F-5A's airframe served as the basis of several design studies which culminated in the YF-17 "Cobra", a light fighter that lost the USAF LightWeight Fighter (LWF) competition to the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The YF-17 would later be enlarged into the F/A-18 Hornet, which is operated by the US Navy as a multirole combat aircraft.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
  
−
* [[wt:en/news/7346-development-export-order-f-5a-usa-en|[Devblog] “Export Order”: F-5A (USA)]]
+
* [[wt:en/news/7346-development-export-order-f-5a-usa-en|[Devblog] "Export Order": F-5A (USA)]]
  
 
=== References ===
 
=== References ===
  
−
* Sherman, R. (1999, December 27). 5 freedom fighter / tiger. F-5 Tiger - Military Aircraft. Retrieved December 22, 2021, from <nowiki>https://man.fas.org/dod-101/sys/ac/f-5.htm</nowiki> 
+
* Sherman, R. (1999, December 27). F-5 Freedom Fighter / Tiger. FAS Military Analysis Network. Retrieved December 22, 2021, from <nowiki>https://man.fas.org/dod-101/sys/ac/f-5.htm</nowiki>
−
* Yarrish, G. (2020, February 26). Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter. Flight Journal. Retrieved December 22, 2021, from <nowiki>https://www.flightjournal.com/northrop-f-5-freedom-fighter/</nowiki> 
+
* Yarrish, G. (2020, February 26). Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter. Flight Journal. Retrieved December 22, 2021, from <nowiki>https://www.flightjournal.com/northrop-f-5-freedom-fighter/</nowiki>
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{{AirManufacturer Northrop}}
 
{{USA jet aircraft}}
 
{{USA jet aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 19:49, 19 June 2024

This page is about the American jet fighter F-5A. For other versions, see F-5 (Family).
F-5A
f-5a.png
GarageImage F-5A.jpg
ArtImage F-5A.png
F-5A
USA flag.png USA
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
10.3 10.7 10.7
Class:
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
MARKET

Description

The F-5's roots begin way back in the mid-1950s. After a tour around Europe and Asia, Northrop's team saw the need for a supersonic fighter that was cheap and easy to maintain. In 1955, the N-156 was formally brought into fruition and work began. It ultimately evolved into the N-156F and although the Navy and Air Force weren't interested in it, Northrop pursued the idea. Several years later in 1962, the DoD formally announced that the N-156F would be its chosen aircraft for the Military Assistance Program (MAP). This led to the F-5A serving with U.S. forces as a cheap and easy-to-maintain fighter and ultimately being one of the best export-type fighters ever built.

Introduced in Update "Direct Hit" as a reward for the 2021 Export Order event, the F-5A Freedom Fighter is a very strong fighter. It has favorable flight characteristics and excels in dogfighting thanks to its light and small airframe. The F-5A also has 60 countermeasures which are very important at its battle rating for survival. Although the F-5A can only carry two AIM-9Es, the guns are excellent and enemy planes can easily be taken down with a short burst. The F-5A also has an extensive list of bombs and rockets although players should stick to attacking enemy fighters where the F-5A excels at. Nonetheless, players will be satisfied with the F-5A's overall performance and capability.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Drogue parachute
Reduces braking distance when landing on any runway
Max speed
at 10 668 m1 444 km/h
Turn time27 s
Max altitude15 240 m
Engine2 х General Electric J85-GE-13
TypeJet
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight24 t

The F-5A has very good flight performance. It turns quite well at around 700 km/h (437.5 mph) and is overall a great dogfighter. Although the engines are weak compared to other fighters, the F-5A can still reach a respectable top speed of 1,443 km/h (~902 mph). However, it does take a while to reach that speed so the F-5A isn't very suited to running down enemy planes or outrunning them. At lower speeds, the F-5A is still quite good but it's ill-advised to be slow with enemy planes nearby. The F-5A's acceleration is also less than stellar which is another reason to stay relatively fast unless absolutely necessary.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 10,668 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 1,429 1,421 15240 27.1 28.2 112.4 99.2 850
Upgraded 1,460 1,443 26.9 27.0 159.1 133.6

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1458 444 926 560 555 ~11 ~5
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 680 < 750 < 700 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
General Electric J85-GE-13 2 4,051 kg 365 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 11m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 37m fuel
271 kg Afterburning axial-flow turbojet 4,580 kg 4,992 kg 5,462 kg 5,814 kg 9,000 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
Condition 100% WEP 11m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 37m fuel MTOW
Stationary 960 kgf 1,426 kgf 0.62 0.57 0.52 0.49 0.32
Optimal 1,200 kgf
(1,400 km/h) 		2,459 kgf
(1,400 km/h) 		1.07 0.99 0.90 0.85 0.55

Survivability and armour

Flares/Chaff
Aircraft countermeasures to distract IR and radar-guided missiles and also AA radar
Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural1 458 km/h
Gear444 km/h

The F-5A has neither armour plates nor bulletproof glass and the fuel tanks are self-sealing.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 169 → 4 281 Sl icon.png
RB10 039 → 13 562 Sl icon.png
SB9 243 → 12 487 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications226 500 Rp icon.png
353 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 800 Ge icon.png
Crew training200 000 Sl icon.png
Experts710 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 800 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 080 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
130 / 340 / 600 % Sl icon.png
232 / 232 / 232 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
16 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
530 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
530 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
16 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk82
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods napalm fire bomb.png
BLU-1
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
t_160_belt_pack
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
16 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
M117
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
16 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
LAU-3/A
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
16 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk83
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
530 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket large.png
LAU-10/A
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
530 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
t_160_new_gun
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk84
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png
Mods agm missile.png
AGM-12B Bullpup
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
560 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: M39A2 (20 mm)

The F-5A is armed with:

  • 2 x 20 mm M39A2 cannons, nose-mounted (280 rpg = 560 total)
  • 60 x countermeasures

Suspended armament

The F-5A can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Hardpoints F-5E (China).png
250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs 6 6 6
500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs 1 1 1 1 1
500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs 1 1 1 1 1
750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs 1 1 1 1 1
1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs 1 1 1
2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs 1
BLU-1 incendiary bombs 1 1 1 1 1
FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets 19 19 19 19
Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets 4 4
AGM-12B Bullpup missiles 1 1 1 1
AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles 1 1
150 gal drop tanks 1 1 1
Default weapon presets
  • 3 x 150 gal drop tanks
  • 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
  • 18 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (4,500 lb total)
  • 5 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,500 lb total)
  • 5 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (2,500 lb total)
  • 5 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (3,750 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (3,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bomb (2,000 lb total)
  • 8 x Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP rockets
  • 76 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 4 x AGM-12B Bullpup missiles
  • 5 x BLU-1 incendiary bombs

Usage in battles

As the F-5A does not have any radar-guided missiles (AIM-7s or equivalent), and it's not particularly fast, it is recommended to stay low and try to avoid the first clash between teams by flying to the side. When flying into the aforementioned engagement zone, pick out single fights or distracted enemies. The AIM-9E is not a reliable weapon and is easy to dodge, so try not to take missile shots from the sides or at a heavily manoeuvring opponent. When the opportunity to dogfight arises, take it only when you're sure other enemies are either distanced or far enough away from your position to not interrupt your fight and pick you off. When in a dogfight, you are almost always superior in manoeuvrability when compared to your opponent. MiG-21s or the J35s will be better in the first turn, but they bleed a lot of speed due to their delta wing design. Avoid their guns in the first turn, and use yours to take them out. While you have only 2 guns, they have a high muzzle velocity, making them easy to aim. The only downside with the cannons is their damage potential: you need to put several rounds on a target to destroy it.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent manoeuvrability
  • Great amount of countermeasures
  • Easy to aim cannons
  • Access to relatively powerful ground ordnance (enough to destroy a base in air battles)

Cons:

  • Relatively low top speed
  • No radar of any kind
  • Poor acceleration below Mach 1
  • Mediocre energy retention

History

The F-5A Freedom Fighter is a light fighter designed by Northrop in the 1950s. Designed as a private export venture, the aircraft was designed in both fighter and trainer variants (N-156F and N-156T). The F-5A entered service in the 1960s and was widely exported under the US's Military Assistance Program to developing countries. The F-5A would later be developed into the more advanced F-5E, and later on, serve as the basis of the YF-17 / F/A-18.

Design and development

The first Northrop YF-5A prototype.

Design work for the F-5 began in the early 1950s under the leadership of Northrop's VP of engineering Edgar Schmued, who was well-known for his work in designing the P-51 Mustang and F-86 Sabre with North American Aviation. By 1955, the design team had selected the General Electric J85 engine as the powerplant. That year, the US Navy issued a requirement for a light jet fighter to operate off its escort carriers, and Northrop quickly adapted its prototype design for naval service; however, the Navy requirement disappeared when the escort carriers were retired, and Northrop redesigned its aircraft once again. By this time, the prototypes were designated as the N-156T and N-156F, as trainer and fighter variants, respectively.

The final design of the N-156 would emerge in March of 1956, with a conventional wing design and its two J85 engines mounted in the rear fuselage. While the USAF had little interest in a light fighter such as the N-156F, it selected the N-156T as the replacement of the T-33 Shooting Star, which would go on to enter service as the T-38 Talon. The first YT-38 would fly in July of 1959 and serve as the USAF's primary trainer, a role it continues to serve today. Meanwhile, the USAF also ordered three N-156F prototypes to fulfil its requirement for a low-cost fighter that could be exported to less developed countries under the Military Assistance Program (MAP). This role was confirmed by the Kennedy administration's selection of the N-156F as the winner of the F-X competition, for a low-cost fighter to be exported under the MAP program. The N-156F was subsequently renamed the F-5 "Freedom Fighter".

The F-5A's design centered on its two J85 engines, each producing up to 22 kn of thrust with afterburner. While initial N-156 prototypes had engines mounted mid-wing and ahead of the tail (similar to the F-4), the final design featured a pair of engines at the rear of the vehicle. The F-5 could attain a speed of Mach 1.4 at high altitude and could carry up to 6200 lbs of ordnance on five underwing hardpoints. Being optimized for ground attack, the F-5 lacked an air-to-air radar. However, it could carry two AIM-9 Sidewinders on wingtip pylons along with its nose-mounted 20 mm cannons.

Operational service

Being designed for export, a total of 624 F-5As were produced by Northrop, including 3 YF-5A prototypes. Another 200 F-5B two-seater aircraft were produced, lacking internal cannons but otherwise combat-ready. Additionally, Canadair produced 140 aircraft under license for the Royal Canadian Air Force, while CASA in Spain produced 70 aircraft. The F-5A was widely exported under the MAP program to countries including Iran, South Korea, the Philippines, Turkey, Greece, and the Republic of China, while Norway, Spain and Canada purchased/produced the aircraft directly. With the success of the F-5A, the USAF acquired 12 airframes from the MAP program for combat trials in Vietnam, under the code name "Skoshi Tiger" ("Little Tiger"); this led to the F-5's "Tiger" nickname. The Skoshi Tigers received modifications to instruments and the addition of a fueling probe, and were redesignated F-5C.

Later on, the F-5A would lead to more advanced variants. In 1970, Northrop won a competition for a new light export fighter, with a much larger focus on air-to-air combat to counter the threat from late-generation MiG-21s. This aircraft was the F-5E/F, advanced versions of the earlier F-5A/Bs now renamed "Tiger II". The F-5E was similarly widely-exported and modified versions are still in service with export customers, and several aircraft served with NAS Miramar (the so-called TOPGUN) as adversary aircraft, mimicking the MiG-21. Finally, the F-5A's airframe served as the basis of several design studies which culminated in the YF-17 "Cobra", a light fighter that lost the USAF LightWeight Fighter (LWF) competition to the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The YF-17 would later be enlarged into the F/A-18 Hornet, which is operated by the US Navy as a multirole combat aircraft.

Media

Skins

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links

References

  • Sherman, R. (1999, December 27). F-5 Freedom Fighter / Tiger. FAS Military Analysis Network. Retrieved December 22, 2021, from https://man.fas.org/dod-101/sys/ac/f-5.htm
  • Yarrish, G. (2020, February 26). Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter. Flight Journal. Retrieved December 22, 2021, from https://www.flightjournal.com/northrop-f-5-freedom-fighter/


Northrop Corporation
Fighters  P-61A-11 · P-61C-1
Jet fighters  F-89B · F-89D
  F-5A · F-5C · F-5E
  F-20A
Export  ␗F-5A · ▄F-5E FCU

USA jet aircraft
  Fighters
F9F  F9F-2 · F9F-5 · F9F-8
F-80  F-80A-5 · F-80C-10
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F-86  F-86A-5 · F-86F-25 · F-86F-2 · F-86F-35
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F-4  F-4C Phantom II · F-4E Phantom II · F-4J Phantom II · F-4S Phantom II
F-5  F-5A · F-5C · F-5E · F-20A
F-8  F8U-2 · F-8E
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Other  P-59A · F2H-2 · F3D-1 · F3H-2 · F4D-1 · F11F-1
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A-10  A-10A · A-10A Late · A-10C
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