Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series HA33003
Northrop F-5C Skoshi Tiger Diecast Model
USAF 3rd TFW, 10th FCS, #64-13332, Bien Hoa AFB, Vietnam, 1965

Limited Edition
Hot Seller

1:72 Scale   Length   Width
Northrop F-5C Skoshi Tiger   7.75"   4.5"


PLEASE NOTE: This item is not currently in stock and is on back-order.
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In the mid-1960s, the U.S. Air Force's 10th Fighter Commando Squadron (FCS) played a critical role in Project "Skoshi Tiger," an experimental program deploying the F-5 Freedom Fighter to Vietnam. The squadron tested the F-5's combat effectiveness under real-world conditions, operating from Bien Hoa Air Base. These compact, agile jets conducted close air support, interdiction, and ground-attack missions, often in high-risk areas. Skoshi Tiger was designed to assess the F-5's potential as an affordable, exportable fighter for allied nations. The 10th FCS demonstrated the F-5's capability, paving the way for its adoption by numerous U.S. allies worldwide.


Northrop F-5C Skoshi Tiger

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 2003-2026 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 2003-2026 The Flying Mule, Inc.


Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series

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 2003-2026 The Flying Mule, Inc.