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==Operational history== ===United States=== [[File:F-5B 602TFS BienHoa 1966.jpg|thumb|left|An F-5B of 602d TFS at Bien Hoa, 1966]] The F-5 entered service with the USAF's 4441st Combat Crew Training Squadron at [[Williams Air Force Base]], which had the role of training pilots and ground crew for customer nations, including Norway, on 30 April 1964. At that point, it was still not intended that the aircraft be used in significant numbers by the USAF itself.<ref name="WAPJ 25 p53">{{harvnb|Lake|Hewson|1996|p=53}}</ref> USAF doctrine with regard to the F-5 changed following operational testing and limited deployment in 1965. Preliminary combat evaluation of the F-5A began at the [[Air Proving Ground Center]], [[Eglin Air Force Base]], Florida, in mid-1965 under the code name Project ''Sparrow Hawk''. One airframe was lost in the course of the project, through pilot error, on 24 June.<ref>Plunkett, W. Howard. "When the Thunderbirds Flew the Thunderchief." ''Air Power History,'' Air Force Historical Foundation, Clinton, Maryland, Fall 2009, Volume 56, Number 3, pp. 24–25.</ref> In October 1965, the USAF began a five-month combat evaluation of the F-5A titled ''Skoshi Tiger''. A total of 12 aircraft were delivered for trials to the 4503rd Tactical Fighter Squadron, and after modification with probe and drogue [[aerial refueling]] equipment, armor and improved instruments, were redesignated ''F-5C''.<ref name="WoF 5 p4-6">{{harvnb|Thompson|1996|pp=4–6}}.</ref> Over the next six months, they flew in combat in the [[Vietnam War]], flying more than 2,600 sorties, both from the [[3rd Tactical Fighter Wing]] at [[Bien Hoa Air Base]] over South Vietnam and from [[Da Nang Air Base]], where operations were flown over [[Laos]]. Nine aircraft were lost in Vietnam, seven to enemy ground fire and two to operational causes.<ref>Hobson p. 43, 64, 70, 71, 73, 75, 83, 90, 268</ref><ref name="WoF 5 p12,14">{{harvnb|Thompson|1996|pp= 12, 14}}.</ref> Operations were declared a success, with the F-5 generally rated as being as capable a ground-attacker as the F-100, albeit having a shorter range.<ref name="WoF 5 p16">{{harvnb|Thompson|1996|p=16}}.</ref> However, the program was more a political gesture that was intended to aid the export of F-5s than a serious consideration of the type for US service.<ref name="WoF 5 p4-6"/>{{Disputed inline|Skoshi Tiger|date=March 2025}} (Following ''Skoshi Tiger'' the [[Philippine Air Force]] acquired 23 F-5A and B models in 1965. These aircraft, along with remanufactured [[Vought F-8 Crusader]]s, eventually replaced the Philippine Air Force's F-86 Sabres in the air defense and ground attack roles.){{cn|date=March 2025}} From April 1966, the USAF aircraft continued operations under the auspices of the [[10th Fighter Squadron, Commando]], with their number boosted to 17 aircraft.{{cn|date=March 2025}} [[File:Northrop F-5F (Tail No. 00889) 061006-F-1234S-083.jpg|thumb|USAF F-5F with [[AIM-9 Sidewinder|AIM-9J Sidewinder]], [[AGM-65 Maverick]] missiles and auxiliary fuel tanks over [[Edwards Air Force Base]], 1976.]] In June 1967, the surviving aircraft of the 10th Fighter Squadron, Commando, were transferred to the [[Republic of Vietnam Air Force]] (RVNAF). In view of the performance, agility and size of the F-5, it might have appeared to be a good match against the similar MiG-21 in air combat; however, US doctrine was to use heavy, faster and longer-range aircraft like the [[Republic F-105 Thunderchief]] and McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II over North Vietnam.{{cn|date=March 2025}} The F-5 was also adopted as an opposing forces (OPFOR) "aggressor" for dissimilar training role because of its small size and performance similarities to the Soviet MiG-21. In realistic trials at Nellis AFB in 1977, called [[ACEVAL/AIMVAL]], the F-14 reportedly scored slightly better than a 2:1 kill ratio against the simpler F-5, while the F-15 scored slightly less.<ref>{{harvnb|Gervasi|1981|p=123}}.</ref><ref>{{harvnb|Auten|2008|p=390}}</ref><ref>{{harvnb|Gilcrist|1994|p=95}}.</ref><ref>{{harvnb|Lake|1998|p=85}}.</ref> There is some contradiction of these reports, another source reports that "For the first three weeks of the test, the F-14s and F-15s were hopelessly outclassed and demoralized"; after adapting to qualities of the F-5 carrying the new all aspect AIM-9L missile and implementing rule changes to artificially favor long range radar-guided missiles, "the F-14s did slightly better than breaking even with the F-5s in non-1 v 1 engagements; the F-15s got almost 2:1".<ref>Sprey 1972, p. 140.</ref> A 2012 [[Discovery Channel]] documentary ''Great Planes'' reported that in USAF exercises, F-5 aggressor aircraft were competitive enough with more modern and expensive fighters to only be at small disadvantage in Within Visual Range (WVR) combat.<ref>[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMBXJFHUrPo "Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140304015646/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qMBXJFHUrPo |date=4 March 2014}} ''Great Planes episode, Discovery Channel'', May 2012.</ref> [[File:170125-M-PL134-005.jpg|thumb|USMC F-5N Tiger IIs from [[VMFT-401]] on standby at the [[Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort]]]] The F-5E served with the US Air Force from 1975 until 1990, in the [[64th Aggressor Squadron]] and [[65th Aggressor Squadron]] at [[Nellis Air Force Base]] in [[Nevada]], and with the 527th Aggressor Squadron at RAF Alconbury in the UK and the [[26th Space Aggressor Squadron|26th Aggressor Squadron]] at [[Clark Air Force Base]] in the Philippines. The US Marines purchased used F-5s from the Air Force in 1989 to replace their [[IAI Kfir|F-21s]], which served with [[VMFT-401]] at [[Marine Corps Air Station Yuma]]. The US Navy used the F-5E extensively at the [[Naval Fighter Weapons School]] (TOPGUN) when it was located at [[NAS Miramar]], California. When TOPGUN relocated to become part of the [[Naval Strike and Air Warfare Center]] at [[NAS Fallon]], Nevada, the command divested itself of the F-5, choosing to rely on VC-13 (redesignated [[VFC-13]] and which already used F-5s) to employ their F-5s as adversary aircraft. Former adversary squadrons such as [[VF-43]] at [[NAS Oceana]], [[VF-45 (1963-96)|VF-45]] at [[NAS Key West]], [[VF-126]] at NAS Miramar, and [[VFA-127]] at [[NAS Lemoore]] have also operated the F-5 along with other aircraft types in support of Dissimilar Air Combat Training (DACT).{{cn|date=March 2025}} The US Navy F-5 fleet continues to be modernized with 36 low-hour F-5E/Fs purchased from Switzerland in 2006. These were updated as F-5N/Fs with modernized avionics and other improved systems. Currently, the only US Navy and US Marine Corps units flying the F-5 are VFC-13 at NAS Fallon, Nevada, [[VFC-111]] at NAS Key West, Florida and VMFT-401 at MCAS Yuma, Arizona.<ref name="USN F-5N">[http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=1050&ct=1 "F-5N/F Adversary aircraft fact file."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080307205706/http://www.navy.mil/navydata/fact_display.asp?cid=1100&tid=1050&ct=1 |date=7 March 2008}} ''U.S. Navy''. Retrieved: 15 May 2010.</ref> Currently, VFC-111 operates 18 Northrop F-5N/F Tiger IIs. 17 of these are single-seater F-5Ns and the last is a twin-seater F-5F "FrankenTiger", the product of grafting the older front-half fuselage of an F-5F into the back-half fuselage of a newer low-hours F-5E acquired from the Swiss Air Force. A total of three "FrankenTigers" were made.<ref name="AFM283">Ted, Carlson. "One-Eleven Heaven" ''[[AirForces Monthly]]'' ([[Key Publishing]]), Issue 283, October 2011, p. 48. {{ISSN|0955-7091}}. Retrieved: 10 October 2011.</ref> According to the [[FAA]], there are 18 privately owned F-5s in the US, including Canadair CF-5Ds.<ref>[http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/AcftRef_Results.aspx?Mfrtxt=NORTHROP&Modeltxt=F-5&PageNo=1 "FAA Registry: Northrop F-5."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120818125228/http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/AcftRef_Results.aspx?Mfrtxt=NORTHROP&Modeltxt=F-5&PageNo=1 |date=18 August 2012}} ''FAA''. Retrieved: 17 May 2011.</ref><ref>[http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/AcftRef_Results.aspx?Mfrtxt=CANADAIR&Modeltxt=F-5&PageNo=1 "FAA Registry: Canadair F-5."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120818125247/http://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/AcftRef_Results.aspx?Mfrtxt=CANADAIR&Modeltxt=F-5&PageNo=1 |date=18 August 2012}} ''FAA''. Retrieved: 17 May 2011.</ref> ===Brazil=== [[File:Brazilian Air Force F-5M (cropped).jpg|thumb|A [[Brazilian Air Force]] F-5M]] [[File:Northrop F-5 (Forca Aerea Brasileira) Segurança Rio 2016 (3).jpg|thumb|Brazilian F-5 in 2016]] In October 1974, the [[Brazilian Air Force]] (''FAB'') ordered 36 F-5E and 6 F-5B aircraft from [[Northrop Corporation|Northrop]] for $72 million. The first three aircraft arrived on 12 March 1975.<ref>{{Citation |trans-title= The Brazilian air force's first F-5s |url= http://www.aereo.jor.br/2009/07/01/os-primeiros-f-5-da-fab/ |title= Os primeiros F-5 da FAB |language= pt |newspaper= Poder Aéreo |date= 1 July 2011 |access-date= 26 January 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20120726031256/http://www.aereo.jor.br/2009/07/01/os-primeiros-f-5-da-fab/ |archive-date= 26 July 2012 |url-status= dead}}.</ref> In 1988, FAB acquired 22 F-5E and four F-5F second-hand USAF "aggressor" fighters. A total of 15 of these aircraft were part of the initial batch of 30 aircraft produced by Northrop.<ref>{{Citation |last= Poggio |first= Guilherme |trans-title= 39 years of the first F-5 flight… and it continues active! |url= http://www.aereo.jor.br/2011/08/11/39-anos-do-primeiro-voo-do-f-5e-e-ele-ainda-voa/ |title= 39 anos do voo do primeiro F-5E… e ele continua na ativa! |language= pt |newspaper= Poder Aéreo |date= 11 August 2011 |access-date= 28 December 2011 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20110912185904/http://www.aereo.jor.br/2011/08/11/39-anos-do-primeiro-voo-do-f-5e-e-ele-ainda-voa/ |archive-date= 12 September 2011 |url-status= dead}}.</ref> In 1990, FAB retired all remaining five F-5Bs; later, they were sent to Brazilian museums around the country.<ref>{{Citation |trans-title= PAMA-SP 2011: an F-5B dressed as a 'Mike' |url= http://www.aereo.jor.br/2011/11/07/pama-sp-2011-um-f-5b-com-roupa-de-mike/ |title= PAMA-SP 2011: um F-5B com roupa de 'Mike' |language= pt |newspaper= Poder Aéreo |date= 7 November 2011 |access-date= 27 December 2012 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20121104024925/http://www.aereo.jor.br/2011/11/07/pama-sp-2011-um-f-5b-com-roupa-de-mike/ |archive-date= 4 November 2012 |url-status= dead}}.</ref> In 2001, [[Elbit Systems]] and [[Embraer]] started work on a $230 million Brazilian F-5 modernization program, performed over an eight-year period, upgrading 46 F-5E/F aircraft, re-designated as F-5EM and F-5FM. The modernization centered on several areas: new electronic warfare systems, the Grifo F radar, an air-to-air refueling system, INS/GPS-based navigation, support for new weapons, targeting and self-defense systems, [[HOTAS]], LCD displays, [[helmet-mounted display]]s (HMDs), [[Radar Warning Receiver]], encrypted communications, cockpit compatibility for night vision goggles, On-Board Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS) and various new onboard computer upgrades. One important capability is the secure communication with [[Embraer R-99|R-99]] [[Airborne early warning and control|airborne early warning platforms]] and ground stations.<ref name="Deagel_F5">[http://www.deagel.com/Strike-and-Fighter-Aircraft/F-5A-Freedom-Fighter_a000718001.aspx "F-5A Freedom Fighter"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120209135913/http://www.deagel.com/Strike-and-Fighter-Aircraft/F-5A-Freedom-Fighter_a000718001.aspx |date=9 February 2012}}. ''Deagel''. Retrieved: 28 December 2011.</ref> Externally, the new aircraft features a larger nose cone that accommodates the larger radar equipment. The first F-5EM was handed over on 21 September 2005.<ref>[http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Elbit_Systems_(ESLT)/F-5_Brazil "F-5 Brazil."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140204020249/http://www.wikinvest.com/stock/Elbit_Systems_(ESLT)/F-5_Brazil |date=4 February 2014}} ''wikinvest'', 28 May 2008. Retrieved: 29 December 2011.</ref> On 7 July 2003, four Rafael [[Litening]] III targeting pods were ordered at a cost of US$13 million,<ref>[http://www.alide.com.br/noticias/fab03/index.htm "FAB compra Pod Litening III" (in Portuguese).] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120506012219/http://www.alide.com.br/noticias/fab03/index.htm |date=6 May 2012}} ''Alide''. Retrieved: 26 January 2012.</ref> to be used on F-5M together with three Rafael Sky Shield jamming pods ordered on 5 July 2006 at a cost of US$42 million.<ref>[http://pt.scribd.com/doc/19718232/douskyshield "Diario Oficial da União" (in Portuguese).] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130521140847/http://pt.scribd.com/doc/19718232/douskyshield |date=21 May 2013}} ''scribd.com''. Retrieved: 26 January 2012.</ref> In 2009, FAB bought eight single-seat and three twin-seat F-5F used aircraft from Jordan in a US$21 million deal. These aircraft were built between 1975 and 1980.<ref>[http://www.aereo.jor.br/2009/10/29/os-f-5-da-jordania-agora-na-fab/ "Os F-5 da Jordânia, agora na FAB" (in Portuguese).] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120523023746/http://www.aereo.jor.br/2009/10/29/os-f-5-da-jordania-agora-na-fab/ |date=23 May 2012}} ''Poder Aéreo'', 29 October 2009. Retrieved: 28 December 2011.</ref> On 14 April 2011, a contract of $153 million was signed with Embraer and Elbit to modernize the additional F-5s bought from Jordan, and to supply one more flight simulator as a continuation of the contract signed in 2000. These F-5s will receive the same configuration as those from the initial 46 F-5s currently completing the upgrade process. The first delivery of this second batch of upgraded jet fighters is scheduled for 2013 with expected use to 2030.<ref>[http://www.agenciat1.com.br/8648-aeronautica-reforma-11-cacas-por-r-276-mi/ "Aeronáutica reforma 11 caças por R$ 276 mi" (in Portuguese).] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111024102402/http://www.agenciat1.com.br/8648-aeronautica-reforma-11-cacas-por-r-276-mi/ |date=24 October 2011}} ''Agencia T1'', 18 April 2011. Retrieved: 29 December 2011.</ref><ref>[http://www.deagel.com/news/Brazilian-Air-Force-Orders-11-Modernized-F-5EF-Aircraft-from-Embraer_n000008654.aspx "Embraer Defense and Security to modernize 11 additional F-5 jet fighters for the Brazilian Air Force."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130405005525/http://www.deagel.com/news/Brazilian-Air-Force-Orders-11-Modernized-F-5EF-Aircraft-from-Embraer_n000008654.aspx |date=5 April 2013}} ''Deagel'', 14 April 2011. Retrieved: 29 December 2011.</ref> In 2020, the FAB started implementing the new proprietary Datalink System of the Brazilian Armed Forces on the F-5EM, for integrated communication and real-time sharing battlefield/warfare data with AEW&C R-99/E-99 FAB/Embraer aircraft, other aircraft, ships, helicopters, tanks and front/back-ends battlefield control centers, called Link-BR2.<ref>{{cite web|last=FAB|first=Força Aérea Brasileira|title=FAB inicia atividades preparatórias para Campanha de Ensaio em Voo do Projeto Link-BR2|url=https://www.fab.mil.br/noticias/mostra/36650/TECNOLOGIA%20-%20FAB%20inicia%20atividades%20preparatórias%20para%20Campanha%20de%20Ensaio%20em%20Voo%20do%20Projeto%20Link-BR2|access-date=8 December 2020|website=FAB Oficial}}</ref> ===Ethiopia=== [[Ethiopia]] received 10 F-5As and two F-5Bs from the US starting in 1966. In addition to these, Ethiopia had a training squadron equipped with at least eight Lockheed T-33 Shooting Stars. In 1970, Iran transferred at least three F-5As and Bs to Ethiopia. In 1975, another agreement was reached with the US to deliver a number of military aircraft, including 14 F-5Es and three F-5Fs; later in the same year eight F-5Es were transferred while the others were embargoed and delivered to a USAF aggressor Squadron due to the changed political situation. The US also withdrew its personnel and cut diplomatic relations. Ethiopian officers contracted a number of Israelis to maintain American equipment.<ref name="Cooper"/> The Ethiopian F-5 fighters saw combat action against Somali forces during the [[Ogaden War]] (1977–1978). The main Somali fighter aircraft was the MiG-21MF delivered in the 1970s, supported by [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17]]s delivered in the 1960s by the [[Soviet Union]]. Ethiopian F-5E aircraft were used to gain air superiority because they could use the [[AIM-9]]B air-to-air missile, while the F-5As were kept for [[air interdiction]] and [[airstrike]]. During this period Ethiopian F-5Es went on training against Ethiopian F-5As and F-86 Sabres (simulating Somali MiG-21s and MiG-17s).<ref name="Cooper"/> On 17 July 1977, two F-5s were on combat air patrol near Harer, when four Somali MiG-21MFs were detected nearby. In the engagement, two MiG-21s were shot down while the other two had a midair collision while avoiding an AIM-9B missile. The better-trained F-5 pilots swiftly gained air superiority over the [[Somali Air Force]], shooting down a number of aircraft, while other Somali aircraft were lost to air defense and to incidents. Records indicate that Ethiopian F-5s of the 9th Fighter Squadron "shot down 13 MiGs-17 and 12 MiGs-21 from 20th July until 1st September 1977. All aircraft were hit by Sidewinders (AIM-9)."<ref name="auto1">{{Cite web|url=http://aces.safarikovi.org/victories/ethiopia-1977-1978.html|title=Ogaden War (Ethiopian-Somalia Conflict) 1977-1978|website=aces.safarikovi.org}}</ref> However at least three F-5s were shot down by air defense forces during attacks against supply bases in western Somalia.<ref name="Cooper">Cooper, Tom. [http://www.acig.info/CMS/?option=com_content&task=view&id=137&Itemid=47 "Ethiopia and Eritrea, 1950–1991."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120311161204/http://www.acig.info/CMS/?option=com_content&task=view&id=137&Itemid=47 |date=11 March 2012}} ''acig.org, '' 10 February 2008. Retrieved: 1 July 2011.</ref> Ethiopian pilots who had flown both the F-5E and the MiG-21 considered the F-5E to be the superior fighter because of its manoeuvrability at low to medium speeds and the fact that it was far easier to fly, allowing the pilot to focus on combat rather than controlling his airplane.<ref name="Wings">Cooper, Tom., "Wings over Ogaden, 2015, ch. 3</ref> This effect was enhanced by the poor quality of pilot training provided by the Soviets, which provided limited flight time and focused exclusively on taking off and landing, with no practical training in air combat.<ref name="Wings"/><ref name="EEW">Cooper, Tom & Fontanellaz, Adrian, "Ethiopian-Eritrean Wars Volume 1, 2018, ch. 4</ref> Ethiopia's ace pilot and national hero was [[Legesse Tefera]] who is credited with shooting down 6 (or 7) Somali MiGs, thus making him the most successful F-5 pilot.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://medium.com/war-is-boring/which-is-better-the-f-5e-tiger-ii-or-the-mig-21-e92e5c5a1ef3 |title= Which is Better, the F-5E Tiger II or the MiG-21? by Tom Cooper |date= 8 August 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://borkena.com/2016/10/05/ethiopia-hero-air-force-general-passes-away/ |title= Ethiopia : Hero Air Force General Passes Away |date= 5 October 2016}}</ref><ref name="auto1"/> ===Greece=== [[File:NF-5A 3061 at Kariotisa (near Edessa) commemorates an F-4 pilot from the village who was killed in a flying accident..jpg|thumb|Retired Greek NF-5A on display near Edessa, Greece]] The Hellenic Air Force was the first European air force to receive the Freedom Fighter. The first F-5As were delivered in 1965, and over the next 8 years a total of about 70 F-5A/Bs were operational. The Hellenic Air Force bought an additional 10 F-5A/Bs from Iran in 1975, and around the same period another batch of 10 F-5A/Bs were acquired from Jordan. Another 10 were acquired from Norway in 1986, and a final 10 NF-5As were purchased from the Netherlands in 1991. The total number of F-5s in operation (including the ex-Iranian machines, 34 RF-5As, and 20 F-5Bs) in the Hellenic Air Force was about 120 aircraft, from 1965 to 2002, when the last F-5 was decommissioned and the type went out of operation in the Hellenic Air Force.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.haf.gr/el/mission/weapons/historic/1951_1973/f-5.asp |title=Northrop F-5A/B και NF-5A/Β Freedom Fighter |publisher=[[Greek Air Force|Πολεμική Αεροπορία]] |language=Greek |access-date=12 October 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131015053658/http://www.haf.gr/el/mission/weapons/historic/1951_1973/f-5.asp |archive-date=15 October 2013 |url-status=dead}}</ref> Units that used the F-5 in Greek service:{{citation needed|date=October 2023}} * [[337th Day Interceptor Squadron]] (1967–1978) * [[341st Day Interceptor Squadron]] (1965–1993) * [[343rd Day Interceptor Squadron]] (1966–2001) * [[349th Day Interceptor Squadron]] (1970–1997) ===Iran=== [[File:IIAF F-5A 3-417.jpg|thumb|F-5A Freedom Fighters of the Imperial Iranian Air Force]] [[File:IRIAF Northrop F-5E Tiger II Talebzadeh.jpg|thumb|An F-5E of the [[Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force]]]] The [[History of the Iranian Air Force|Imperial Iranian Air Force]] (IIAF) received extensive US equipment in the 1960s and 1970s. Iran received its first 11 F-5As and two F-5Bs in February 1965 which were then declared operational in June 1965. Ultimately, Iran received 104 F-5As and 23 F-5Bs by 1972. From January 1974 with the first squadron of 28 F-5Fs, Iran received a total of 166 F-5E/Fs and 15 additional RF-5As with deliveries ending in 1976. While receiving the F-5E and F, Iran began to sell its F-5A and B inventory to other countries, including Ethiopia, Turkey, Greece and South Vietnam; by 1976, many had been sold, except for several F-5Bs retained for training purposes.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Isayev, Jafarov|first1=S., T.|title=Iran now capable of overhauling and modifying F-5 Freedom fighter jet|url=http://en.trend.az/iran/1995755.html|publisher=Trend News Agency|date=23 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160204135613/http://en.trend.az/iran/1995755.html|archive-date=4 February 2016|url-status=dead|access-date=29 January 2016}}</ref> F-5s were also used by the IIAF's aerobatic display team, the [[Golden Crown]]. After the Iranian revolution in 1979, the new [[Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force]] (IRIAF) was partially successful at keeping Western fighters in service during the [[Iran–Iraq War]] in the 1980s and the simple F-5 had a good service readiness until late in the war. Initially, Iran took spare parts from foreign sources; later it was able to have its new aircraft industry keep the aircraft flying.<ref>[http://www.iiaf.net/aircraft/jetfighters/F5/f5.html "The first air force to receive F-5E was the Imperial Iranian Air Force."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924033341/http://www.iiaf.net/aircraft/jetfighters/F5/f5.html |date=24 September 2015}} iiaf.net. Retrieved: 6 June 2010.</ref> IRIAF F-5s were heavily involved, flying air-to-air and air-to-ground sorties. Iranian F-5s took part in air combat with Iraqi MiG-21s, [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23|MiG-23s]], [[Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-25|MiG-25s]], [[Sukhoi Su-17|Su-20/22s]], [[Mirage F1]]s and [[Super Etendard]]s. The exact combat record is not known with many differing claims from Iraqi, Iranian, Western, and Russian sources.{{citation needed|date=May 2018}} There are reports that an IRIAF F-5E, piloted by Major [[Yadollah Javadpour]], shot down a MiG-25 on 6 August 1983.<ref>[http://www.iiaf.net/iiafmisc/announcements/announcements.html IRIAF] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090201002512/http://iiaf.net/iiafmisc/announcements/announcements.html |date=1 February 2009}}. ''iiaf.net''. Retrieved: 6 June 2010.</ref><ref>{{usurped|1=[https://web.archive.org/web/20100323174626/http://www.acig.org/artman/publish/article_211.shtml "Arabian Peninsula & Persian Gulf Database: Iranian Air-to-Air Victories, 1982."]}} acig.org, 16 September 2003. Retrieved: 15 May 2010.</ref> Russian sources state that the first confirmed kill of a MiG-25 occurred in 1985.<ref>Jakubovich, Nickolai (2012). "Neizvestnii MiG. Gordost sovetskogo aviaproma"/Razvedchiki/bombardirovshiki. Eksmo. (Russian:"Неизвестный «МиГ». Гордость советского авиапрома"/Разведчии/бомбардировщики, Николай Якубович, 2012)</ref> During their first years of service, Iranian F-5s had the advantage in missile technology, using advanced versions of the [[infrared homing]] [[AIM-9 Sidewinder]], later lost with deliveries of new missiles and fighters to Iraq.<ref>{{Cite journal |last1=Cordesman |first1=Anthony H. |last2=Wagner |first2=Anthony H. Cordesman and Abraham |date=1990-05-01 |title=The Lessons of Modern War - Volume II - The Iran-Iraq War – Chapter 2: The Conditions That Shaped The Iran - Iraq War |url=https://www.csis.org/analysis/lessons-modern-war-volume-ii-iran-iraq-war-chapter-2-conditions-shaped-iran-iraq-war |language=en}}</ref> [[Iran Aircraft Manufacturing Industrial Company]] currently produces three aircraft, the [[HESA Azarakhsh|Azarakhsh]], [[Saeqeh]], and [[HESA Kowsar|Kowsar]], derived from the F-5.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/why-irans-fighter-jet-ripoff-just-fake-news-19487 |title=Why Iran's Fighter-Jet Ripoff Is Just Fake News |date=18 February 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180522113434/http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/why-irans-fighter-jet-ripoff-just-fake-news-19487 |archive-date=22 May 2018 |url-status=live}}</ref> ===Kenya=== [[File:F-5 Tiger Kenya.jpg|thumb|[[Kenya Air Force]] F-5E Tiger II and a USAF [[C-5 Galaxy]] in the background]] In June 1976, Kenya ordered 10 new F-5E and two F-5F aircraft from the U.S. for $70 million.<ref>Weinraub, Bernard. [https://www.nytimes.com/1976/06/17/archives/us-to-sell-kenya-12-f5s-in-70-million-arms-deal.html "U.S. to Sell Kenya 12 F‐5's In $70 Million Arms Deal."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231027002949/https://www.nytimes.com/1976/06/17/archives/us-to-sell-kenya-12-f5s-in-70-million-arms-deal.html |date=17 June 1976}} ''nytimes.com,'' 17 June 1976. Retrieved: 26 October 2023.</ref> Starting on 16 October 2011 during [[Operation Linda Nchi]], [[Kenyan Air Force]] F-5s supported the Kenyan forces fighting in Somalia against Al Shabab Islamists bombing targets inside Somalia and spearheading the ground forces.<ref>Axe, David. [http://www.offiziere.ch/?p=6767 "Kenyan Jets Spearhead Somalia Operation."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120104143336/http://www.offiziere.ch/?p=6767 |date=4 January 2012}} ''offiziere.ch,'' 1 November 2011. Retrieved: 24 April 2012.</ref> ===Malaysia=== [[File:Malaysia Northrop F5 Tiger II 2322530.jpg|thumb|left|F-5 Tiger II of the Royal Malaysian Air Force]] In 1975, the [[Royal Malaysian Air Force]] received 14 F-5Es and two F-5Bs. In 1982, four F-5Fs were received and the two F-5Bs already in Malaysian service were transferred to the Royal Thai Air Force. In 1983, RMAF received two RF-5E Tigereye. Subsequently, two F-5Es (M29-21 & M29-22) and a F-5F (M29-23) which came with the new "shark nose" and with leading edge root extensions (LERX) version were ordered as attrition replacement. The F-5E was the first supersonic fighter in Royal Malaysian Air Force service and it replaced the former [[RAAF]] [[CAC Sabre]] as the Royal Malaysian Air Force's primary air defense fighter throughout the 1980s and early '90s. It also served in secondary ground attack role alongside the Douglas A-4 Skyhawk. Five F-5Es and one F-5F were lost in the accident with three fatalities (2 pilots in E (1983 & 1995) and 1 in F (1986), all crashed into the sea). In 2000, all the RMAF F-5s were deactivated, but they were reactivated in 2003 as the Tactical Air Reconnaissance Squadron and Reserve. Several upgrade packages were proposed to extend the service life of the aircraft, but none were taken. In 2015, the F-5s were pulled out of service, but some were kept in storage.{{citation needed|date=October 2016}} ===Mexico=== [[File:F5 FAM popocatepetl.jpg|thumb|Mexican Air Force F-5 Tiger flying near the [[Popocatepetl]] volcano]] In 1982, the [[Mexican Air Force]] received 10 F-5Es and two F-5Fs after the purchase of 24 IAI Kfir C.1 was blocked by the US, because the Kfir used the American-produced J79 engine. These fighters complemented the Lockheed T-33 and [[de Havilland Vampire]] Mk. I (received much earlier), two of the first combat jet aircraft in Mexico. The F-5 gave Mexico its first supersonic warplane, and it saw the formation of Air Squadron 401. On 16 September 1995, after more than 30 military parade flights without incidents, an F-5E collided in midair with three Lockheed T-33s during the military parade for the Independence of Mexico resulting in 10 deaths.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Darling |first=Juanita |date=1995-09-17 |title=4 Planes Crash in Mexico Festivities; 6 Killed |url=https://www.latimes.com/archives/la-xpm-1995-09-17-mn-46900-story.html |access-date=2023-03-08 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US}}</ref> As of 2021, the Mexican Air Force has five Northrop F-5E and two F-5F fighters combat ready and for training purposes.<ref>{{cite web |title=México reactiva sus aviones F-5E/F Tigre II HD 2021 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lhcn-l2VYCs&ab_channel=MexicoaeroespacialyDefensa |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211030/lhcn-l2VYCs |archive-date=2021-10-30|website=YouTube | date=11 February 2021 |publisher=Mexicoaeroespacial y Defensa |access-date=12 August 2021}}{{cbignore}}</ref> ===Morocco=== [[File:Moroccan F-5 jet.jpg|thumb|[[Royal Moroccan Air Force]] F-5E Tiger II during an aerial refueling mission in exercise African Lion 2009]] The [[Royal Moroccan Air Force]] received 22 F-5As, two F-5Bs and two RF-5As from the United States between 1966 and 1974. These entered service with the 1st Fighter Squadron.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|2018|pages=40–41}}</ref> Two additional F-5As were donated by Iran in 1974, and six F-5As were acquired from Jordan in 1976.<ref name="SIWS 2 p18">{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|page=18}}</ref> Three F-5As were involved in the failed [[1972 Moroccan coup attempt]], attacking King [[Hassan II of Morocco]]'s [[Boeing 727]] in mid-air, before strafing and bombing a military airfield and the royal palace.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Cooper|first1=Tom|title=Morocco, Mauritania & West Sahara since 1972|url=http://www.acig.info/CMS/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=228&Itemid=1|website=ACIG.org|access-date=1 January 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304090030/http://www.acig.info/CMS/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=228&Itemid=1|archive-date=4 March 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> After the failure of the attempted coup, nearly all F-5 pilots were arrested, and most of them disappeared.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|2018|page=43}}</ref> Another consequence of the failed coup was that the designation system of Moroccan air force units changed from numerical designations to names. From then on, the F-5A squadron was known as the Borak squadron.<ref name="SIWS 2 p18"/> Morocco used its F-5s in the [[Western Sahara War]] in reconnaissance and bombing missions.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|pages=26,32}}</ref> Several aircraft were shot down by [[9K32 Strela-2]] [[MANPADS]], machine-gun fire, and [[9K31 Strela-1]] (SA-9) and [[2K12 Kub]] (SA-6) self-propelled anti-aircraft systems.<ref name="moroccan losses">{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|pages=74–75}}</ref> To counter the SA-6 threat, AN/ALR-66 [[radar warning receiver]]s were installed on the RF-5As and F-5Bs around 1981. These aircraft were grouped into a newly established dedicated reconnaissance unit, the Erige squadron; one of its main tasks was to track the [[Polisario Front]]'s surface-to-air missile systems.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|pages=60–61, 68}}</ref> In the same period, Morocco started receiving 16 F-5Es and four F-5Fs, that had been ordered in 1979 thanks to Saudi financing. Deliveries lasted from 1981 to 1983.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|page=44}}</ref> Shortly after their arrival, the F-5Es were fitted with the same radar warning receivers as the RF-5As and F-5Bs;<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|page=45}}</ref> they also received in-flight refuelling probes.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|page=61}}</ref> Lastly, Moroccan F-5Es could be equipped with electronic and infrared countermeasures pods, that enhanced their survivability against Polisario surface-to-air missiles.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|page=VII}}</ref> F-5E/Fs were operated by the Borak and Erige squadrons, where they served together with older F-5 versions, as well as the Chahine squadron.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|page=62}}</ref> During the war in Western Sahara, Moroccan F-5s deployed general-purpose and cluster bombs, unguided rockets, and more rarely [[AGM-65 Maverick]] missiles.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|Grandolini|Fontanellaz|2019|pages=55,VII}}</ref> In total, 15 F-5s are confirmed to have been lost in the course of the Western Sahara War.<ref name="moroccan losses"/> Starting in 1990, Morocco received 12 more F-5Es from the United States, a total of 24 F-5Es having been upgraded to the F-5TIII standard.{{citation needed|date=June 2022}} ===Netherlands=== [[File:De met grijs-grijze camouflagepatronen beschilderde NF-5B Trainer met registratienummer K-4014 van 313 Squadron (2157 015703).jpg|thumb|left|RNLAF NF-5B twin-seater]] In the mid-1960s, the [[Royal Netherlands Air Force]] (RNLAF) recognized that its fleet of [[Republic F-84F Thunderstreak|F-84F]] fighter-bombers and [[Lockheed T-33|T-33]] trainers was in need of replacement.<ref name="75jaar">{{Cite book |last=de Jong |first=A.P. |title=Vlucht door de tijd - 75 jaar Nederlandse Luchtmacht |publisher=Unieboek b.v. |edition=3rd |publication-date=June 1988 |pages=229, 230, 238 |language=Dutch |trans-title=Flight through time - 75 years Netherlands Air Force}}</ref> A deal was made with [[Canadair]] to produce modified versions of their license-built [[Canadair CF-5|CF-5A]] single-seater and CF-5D twin-seater, which were given the designation NF-5A and NF-5B respectively. The NF-5 differed from the CF-5 mainly in having [[Flap (aeronautics)#Maneuvering flaps|maneuvering flaps]], a radar altimeter and a [[Moving map display|roller map display]]. Later modifications included the addition of chaff/flare dispensers and a radar warning system.<ref name="75jaar" /> The first NF-5A was handed over in October 1969 at [[Enschede Airport Twente|Twente Air Base]] for 313 Squadron acting as Operational Conversion Unit. The last aircraft was handed over in March 1972. The NF-5As flew under the Dutch registrations K-3001 / K-3075 and the NF-5Bs under K-4002 / K-4030. They were operational at Twenthe AB (OCU, 313 and 315 Squadrons), [[Eindhoven Airport|Eindhoven AB]] (314 Squadron) and [[Gilze-Rijen Air Base|Gilze-Rijen AB]] (316 Squadron). In total, the RNLAF would receive 75 NF-5As and 30 NF-5Bs.<ref name="75jaar" /> During the RNLAF transition to the F-16, the NF-5s and Bs were stored at Gilze-Rijen and [[Woensdrecht Air Base|Woensdrecht]] air bases. 60 aircraft were sold to [[Turkey]], 11 to [[Greece]] and 7 to [[Venezuela]]. Some aircraft have been written off during their operational life due to crashes and some remaining aircraft are displayed in museums or used in technical schools. The NF-5As and Bs were operational from 1971 to 1991.{{Citation needed|date=June 2019}} ===Norway=== [[File:F-5A Norway (19345654110).jpg|thumb|Norwegian Air Force F-5A]] The Royal Norwegian Air Force received 108 Freedom Fighters: 16 RF-5A, 78 F-5A and 14 F-5B. The first 64 were received as military aid. They were used by six squadrons,<ref name="the-northrop-f-5-enthusiast-page.info">{{Cite web |url=http://www.the-northrop-f-5-enthusiast-page.info/AirForces/NorwayAF.html |title= Luftvorsvaret - Air Force |website=The Northrop F-5 Enthusiast Page |access-date=11 October 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181011214907/http://www.the-northrop-f-5-enthusiast-page.info/AirForces/NorwayAF.html |archive-date=11 October 2018 |url-status=dead}}</ref> the first and last being 336 Squadron receiving the first aircraft in February 1966 (formal handing-over ceremony a month later), and deactivating in August 2000. Three aircraft were kept flying until 2007, serving with [[Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace]] for tests in the "Eye of the Tiger" program, supporting development of the Norwegian [[Penguin (missile)|Penguin]] anti-ship missile.<ref name="the-northrop-f-5-enthusiast-page.info"/> The aircraft received under military aid were handed off to Greece and Turkey. Of the aircraft bought by the Norwegian government, nine were used in exchange with US authorities for submarines of the {{sclass|Kobben|submarine|4}}.<ref>Hafsten, Bjørn. "Northrop F-5 i norsk tjeneste" (Northrop F-5 in Norwegian Service) (In Norwegian). ''Warbirds of Norway Newsletter'', 2009.</ref> In October 2011 five F-5A single seaters were given to [[Aircraft maintenance technician|aircraft maintenance schools]] around the country; including the Skedsmo, Sola, Bodø, and Bardufoss high schools, and the Royal Norwegian Air Force's training center at [[Kristiansand Airport, Kjevik]]. The aircraft were disassembled at [[Moss Airport, Rygge]], before delivery to the schools. Of the ten remaining Norwegian F-5s, eight F-5B two-seaters were still for sale as of 2011, six of which were stored in Norway and two in the United States. The two aircraft in the United States had been approved for sale to the American businessman [[Ross Perot Jr.]], in 2008, but the deal was blocked by the US government initially.<ref>{{cite news |last=Dalløkken |first=Per Erlien |date=25 October 2011 |title=F-5 blir gitt bort |url=https://www.tu.no/artikler/f-5-blir-gitt-bort/238219 |work=[[Teknisk Ukeblad]] |access-date=2 May 2017 |language=no}}</ref> However, in 2015, Perot Jr. got permission and subsequently bought the aircraft for significantly below market price, which caused controversy and public criticism of the government of Norway.<ref>{{Cite web|last=Egeberg|first=Tore Bergsaker, Kristoffer|date=2017-05-02|title=Slakter salg av jagerfly til Texas-milliardær|url=https://www.dagbladet.no/nyheter/slakter-salg-av-jagerfly-til-texas-milliardaer/67534111|access-date=2020-12-09|website=dagbladet.no|language=no}}</ref> Three survivors are exhibited at the [[Norwegian Armed Forces Aircraft Collection]], two at [[Bodø Airport#Norsk Luftfartsmuseum – Norwegian Aviation Museum|Norsk Luftfartsmuseum]] in [[Bodø]] and one at [[Flyhistorisk Museum, Sola]], near [[Stavanger]]. ===Philippines=== [[File:F-5E Philippine AF at Clark AB 1982.JPEG|thumb|Philippine Air Force F-5A at [[Clark Air Base]], c. 1982]] The Philippine Air Force acquired 37 F-5A and F-5B from 1965 to 1998.<ref>"PAF to retire F-5 fleet". ''Philippine Star'', 29 September 2005. Retrieved: 8 April 2009.</ref> The F-5A/Bs were used by the 6th Tactical Fighter Squadron (Cobras) of the 5th Fighter Wing and the [[Blue Diamonds (aerobatic team)|Blue Diamonds aerobatic team]], replacing the F-86F Sabre previously used by 1965 and 1968 respectively. The F-5s also underwent an upgrade which equipped it with surplus AN/APQ-153 radars with significant overhaul at the end of the 1970s to stretch their service lives another 15 years. In 2005, the Philippines decommissioned its remaining F-5A/B fleet, including those received from Taiwan and South Korea.<ref name="PAF_to_buy_6">Evangelista, Kate. [http://globalnation.inquirer.net/5162/philippine-air-force-to-buy-6-fighter-jets "Philippine Air Force to buy 6 fighter jets."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110902054815/http://globalnation.inquirer.net/5162/philippine-air-force-to-buy-6-fighter-jets |date=2 September 2011}} ''Globalnation'' via ''inquirer.net,'' 1 July 2011. Retrieved: 11 October 2011.</ref> ===Singapore=== [[File:RSAF F-5S Cope Tiger.jpg|thumb|A Republic of Singapore Air Force F-5S Tiger II taking off from [[Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base|Korat Air Base]]]] Singapore is an important operator of the F-5E/F variant, first ordering the aircraft in 1976 during a massive expansion of the city-state's armed forces; delivery of this first batch of 18 F-5Es and three F-5Fs was completed by late February 1979, equipping the newly formed-up [[144 Squadron, Republic of Singapore Air Force|No. 144 ''Black Kite'' Squadron]] at [[Tengah Air Base]]. At the end of 1979, an order was placed for six more F-5Es, which were delivered by 1981. In 1982, an order for three more F-5Fs was placed, these were forward delivered in September 1983 to [[RAF Leuchars]] in Scotland where they were taken over by pilots of the [[Republic of Singapore Air Force]] (RSAF).<ref name="AFM275"/> In 1983, the type took over the duties of [[Interceptor aircraft|airborne interception]] from the [[Royal Australian Air Force]]'s [[Dassault Mirage III|Mirage IIIO]]s detachment (rotated between [[No. 3 Squadron RAAF|No. 3]] & [[No. 75 Squadron RAAF]]) stationed at ''Tengah''.<ref>Wilson 2002, p. 180.</ref> Another order for six more F-5Es was placed in 1985, these were delivered the same year and would go on to equip the newly formed-up [[149 Squadron, Republic of Singapore Air Force|No. 149 ''Shikra'' Squadron]] at ''Tengah''. The following year, the RSAF placed an order for its final batch of three F-5Fs and five F-5Es, these were delivered in December 1987 and July 1989, respectively. In a bid to modernize its air force, the Royal Jordanian Air Force put up seven F-5Es for sale in 1994, these were later acquired by Singapore.<ref name="AFM275"/> From 1990 to 1991, using jigs and toolings purchased from Northrop, Singapore Aircraft Industries (SAI, now [[ST Aerospace]]) converted eight existing F-5Es into RF-5E Tigereye variant. Subsequently, these were used to reequip [[141 Squadron, Republic of Singapore Air Force|No. 141 ''Merlin'' Squadron]], which had traded in their older [[Hawker Hunter]] FR.74S for the newer Tigereyes in 1992 and was by then based at [[Paya Lebar Air Base]], after the 144 Squadron had relocated there in 1986. By June 1993, all three squadrons had been relocated to the base, thus consolidating Singapore's F-5E/F operations at ''Paya Lebar''.<ref name="AFM275"/> In 1991, SAI was awarded a contract as the prime contractor to modernize all RSAF F-5E/Fs (including the 7 ex-Jordanian F-5Es); Elbit Systems was the sub-contractor responsible for systems integration. Upgrades include a new [[X band]] multi-mode radar (the Italian ''FIAR Grifo-F'',<ref name="FSRSAF"/><ref name="FGBRF5"/> with [[Beyond-visual-range missile]] and [[Look-down/shoot-down]] capabilities), a revamped cockpit with new MIL-STD-1553R databuses, [[General Electric Company|GEC]]/[[Ferranti]] 4510 [[Head-up display]]/weapons delivery system, two [[BAE Systems]] MED-2067 [[Multi-function display]]s, [[Litton Industries|Litton]] LN-93 INS (similar to the [[ST Aerospace A-4SU Super Skyhawk]]) and Hands On Throttle-And-Stick controls (HOTAS) to reduce pilot workload. Reportedly, the Elisra SPS2000 radar warning receiver and countermeasure system was also installed.<ref>[http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/1996/03/13/17672/singapore-f-5-upgrade-to-go-ahead.html "Singapore F-5 upgrade to go ahead."] ''FlightGlobal.com,'' 13 March 1996. Retrieved: 28 June 2011.</ref> In addition, the starboard M39 20 mm cannon mounted in the nose was removed to make way for additional avionics (the sole cannon on the two-seaters was removed because of this), and to improve maneuverability, upgraded aircraft received larger [[Leading edge extension#Leading edge root extensions|leading edge root extensions]] (LERX). The process began in March 1996 and was completed by 2001, receiving the new designation of ''F-5S/T''. In 1998, the eight RF-5Es also received the upgrades (except for the radar) and were redesignated as ''RF-5S''.<ref name="AFM275"/> Each F-5S/T upgraded reportedly cost [[Singapore dollar|SGD$6 million]].<ref>Boey, David. "Meet Bitching Betty – She sits in a plane, one of 40 F-5S aircraft which have been upgraded at about $6 million a plane."''[[The Straits Times]]'' ([[Singapore Press Holdings]]), 4 April 1999, p. 23. Retrieved: 22 March 2012.</ref> By end of 2009, the type had accumulated more than 170,000 hours of flight time in Singapore service with only two F-5Es being lost in separate accidents (in 1984 and 1991, respectively).<ref name="AFM275"/> 144 Squadron, the last squadron operating F-5Es, disbanded in September 2015 after the F-5S was retired.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Northrop F-5T Tiger II 853 1:72 Scale|url=https://www.headway-aviation.shop/product-page/northrop-f-5t-tiger-ii-853-1-72-scale|access-date=2021-08-22|website=Headway Aviation|language=en|archive-date=22 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210822003235/https://www.headway-aviation.shop/product-page/northrop-f-5t-tiger-ii-853-1-72-scale|url-status=dead}}</ref> === South Korea === The [[Republic of Korea Air Force]] (ROKAF) purchased F-5A/Bs in 1965, and it purchased F-5Es in August 1974. KF-5 variants were built by Korean Air under license between 1982 and 1986.{{citation needed|date=July 2022}} The F-5E/Fs and KF-5E/Fs were to be replaced by [[KAI T-50 Golden Eagle|FA-50]]s{{citation needed|date=July 2022}} and after 2001, by the plans to eventually field the Korean [[F-X fighter program#F-X Phase 3|F-X Phase 3]].<ref name="nars2015">{{cite web |date=2015-09-10 |title=한국형 전투기 개발 계획： KF-X 사업(보라매사업)-pdf |trans-title=Korean fighter development plan:KF-X project (Boramae project) |url=http://www.nars.go.kr/fileDownload2.do?doc_id=1K_SBBWWOAq&fileName=(%ED%98%84%EC%95%88%EB%B3%B4%EA%B3%A0%EC%84%9C%20263%ED%98%B8-20150910)%ED%95%9C%EA%B5%AD%ED%98%95%20%EC%A0%84%ED%88%AC%EA%B8%B0%20%EA%B0%9C%EB%B0%9C%20%EA%B3%84%ED%9A%8D%EF%BC%9A%20KF-X%20%EC%82%AC%EC%97%85(%EB%B3%B4%EB%9D%BC%EB%A7%A4%EC%82%AC%EC%97%85).pdf |access-date=2017-12-21 |publisher=국회입법조사처 |language=ko}}</ref>{{rp|18}} === Spain === [[File:AE.9-005 23-25 F-5M Freedom Fighter Ala 23 Spanish Air Force Dijon AB 2008.jpg|thumb|Spanish Air Force F-5M Freedom Fighters, 2008]] Spain has operated F-5 many decades, and upgrades in the early 21st century there is still in service in the 2020s although they are reaching the end of their career. On 11 January 1965 Spain announced the choice of the F-5 to replace their T-33 and F-86. During the evaluation phase, an F-5B crashed near [[Torrejón Air Base]], killing both occupants, a Northrop pilot and a pilot from the [[Spanish Air and Space Force|Ejército del Aire]]. The contract included 70 units, 8 of them being manufactured by Northrop, 2 disassembled and assembled in Spain, and the remaining 6 in the form of components and structures ready construction. The remaining 62 would be built under license by [[CASA (aircraft manufacturer)|CASA]] in the factory at [[Getafe]]. The first of this Spanish built batch would take off on 22 May 1968 from the [[Getafe Air Base]] flown by a Northrop test pilot. The first delivery to the Ejército del Aire would be on 19 June 1969, being 2 F-5B for the [[202 Escuadrón]], based at [[Morón de la Frontera]]. The first delivery consisted on all F-5B, being the single-seater F-5A and RF-5A delivered later. The last of the 70 airframes was received by the Ejército del Aire on 11 April 1972. The F-5B was ascribed to the [[Ala 73]] at [[Badajoz Airport|Talavera la Real Air Base]], dedicated to training. Additionally to the aforementioned Escuadrón 202, the [[Escuadrón 204]] received RF-5A. This unit would later become the [[Ala 21]] in 1971. With the increasing tension with Morocco during the later phase of the [[Francoist Spain|Francoist government]], the Spanish CASA/Northrop F-5A saw action during the [[Spanish Sahara|conflict in the Spanish Sahara]], being deployed at the [[Gando Air Base]] with more than 500 real combat missions. This deployment became permanent from 1974 on, being formalized in 1976. Two F-5B and all F-5A with even registration were ascribed to [[Ala 46]] in the [[Escuadrón 464]] at the Gando Air Base, until their replacement in 1982 by the newly acquired [[Dassault Mirage F1|Dassault-Breguet F1EE]], being the F-5 sent back to Morón de la Frontera. In 1989 a mid-air accident is suffered by an F-5B due to a structural failure of a wing. All F-5 fleet is grounded in search for signs of material fatigue, and as a result of it, many of them are retired. The remaining single-seaters (F-5A and RF-5A) are transferred in 1995 to the [[Ala 23]] in Talavera la Real, together with some of the retired airframes, used for spare parts. That would be the final destination of the Spanish single-seaters where they would be retired over the late 1990s. On the other hand, as a result of the 1990 accident, all twin-seaters are sent to the CASA Getafe Factory to be maintained and renovated. A new modernisation program in 2008 intended to extend their operational life until 2025, receiving glass cockpits and [[Ejection seat|zero-zero ejection seats]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Calvo |first=Luis |date=2018-06-06 |title=CASA Northrop F-5B |url=https://fly-news.es/especial-75o-aniversario-aga/casa-northrop-f-5b/ |access-date=2024-03-10 |website=Fly News |language=es}}</ref> As of the early 2020s, Spain has a fleet of about 20 F-5s that it is planning to operate until at least 2028, as no replacement has yet been found. The aircraft have been in service for about 50 years and, with continued maintenance, have several years of service.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-03-02 |title=Spain will operate the Northrop F5 light fighters until 2028 |url=https://bulgarianmilitary.com/2023/03/02/spain-will-operate-the-northrop-f-5-light-fighters-until-2028/ |access-date=2024-04-06 |language=en-US}}</ref> ===Switzerland=== [[File:F-5F mit Ericson Vista5.JPG|thumb|Swiss F-5F with Ericson Vista 5 radar jammer]] The [[Swiss Air Force]] flies a total of 22 F-5E and 4 F-5F aircraft, down from a peak of 98 and 12 in 1981.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.lw.admin.ch/internet/luftwaffe/en/home/dokumentation/assets/aircraft/tig5e.html |title=Northrop F-5E Tiger II |publisher=Swiss Air Force |date=April 2015 |access-date=9 June 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160728194823/http://www.lw.admin.ch/internet/luftwaffe/en/home/dokumentation/assets/aircraft/tig5e.html |archive-date=28 July 2016 |df=dmy-all}}</ref> They were chosen chiefly because of their excellent performance, suitability for the unique Swiss Air Force mission, and their relatively low maintenance cost per flight hour. It had been expected these aircraft would be replaced by the [[Saab JAS 39 Gripen]], but in May 2014, a referendum by the Swiss people decided against the purchase of the Gripens.<ref>de Larrinaga, Nicholas. [http://www.janes.com/article/38038/swiss-voters-reject-gripen-purchase "Swiss voters reject Gripen purchase."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140727140106/http://www.janes.com/article/38038/swiss-voters-reject-gripen-purchase |date=27 July 2014}} ''IHS Jane's Defence Weekly'', 18 May 2014. Retrieved: 22 July 2014.</ref> For the foreseeable future, the Swiss Air Force will continue to fly its present F-5s. There are still plans by the Swiss Air Force and in the Swiss parliament to fly 18 F-5E and four F-5F models. This would also include the continued operation of the [[Patrouille Suisse]], in F-5Es until 2018.<ref>[http://www.parlament.ch/d/suche/seiten/resultate.aspx?collection=all&query=F-5E "Northrop F-5E."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141128033513/http://www.parlament.ch/d/suche/seiten/resultate.aspx?collection=all&query=F-5E |date=28 November 2014}} ''Swiss Government''. Retrieved: 23 December 2014.</ref> In September 2020 the Swiss people voted yes in a referendum to get a replacement. With 50.1% to 49.9% and only 8670 votes between.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.srf.ch/news/abstimmung-27-september-2020/kampfjetbeschaffung/kampfjetbeschaffung-stimmvolk-sagt-hauchduenn-ja-zu-neuen-kampfjets |title=Stimmvolk sagt hauchdünn Ja zu neuen Kampfjets |publisher=SRF |date=September 2020 |access-date=3 March 2022}}</ref> The Swiss Air Force has decided to replace the aircraft with 36 [[F-35A]]s.<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://www.news.admin.ch/de/nsb?id=84275 |title=Air2030: Bundesrat beschliesst Beschaffung von 36 Kampfflugzeugen des Typs F-35A |publisher=Swiss Air Force |date=June 2021 |access-date=3 March 2022}}</ref> In March 2024, The [[Armasuisse|Swiss Federal Office for Armaments]] started delivery of 22 decommissioned F-5E/F Tiger II fighter jets to the United States. The first aircraft was picked up by the [[United States Marine Corps]] on 18 March from [[Emmen Air Base|Emmen Air Force Station]] aboard a [[Lockheed Martin KC-130|Lockheed KC-130J]] transport aircraft. The sale, finalized in 2020, encompasses 16 single-seat F-5E and 6 twin-seat F-5F variants, along with associated ground equipment, spare parts, and logistical support for in-country storage and preparation for transport to the U.S. The total value of the sale is estimated at $32.4 million.<ref>[https://www.ar.admin.ch/de/nsb?id=100444 Erster ausser Dienst gestellter F-5 Tiger den amerikanischen Streitkräften übergeben]</ref> ===Taiwan=== [[File:ROCAF F-5E 5272 Display at Chih Hang Air Force Base Apron 20130601a.jpg|thumb|The 46th Tactical Fighter Squadron (Aggressor squadron) F-5E 5272 of [[Republic of China Air Force]] exhibited on the apron of Zhi-Hang Air Base]] The [[Republic of China Air Force]] (ROCAF, Taiwan's air force) received its first batch of seven F-5As and two F-5Bs under the US Military Assistance Program in 1965. By 1971, the ROCAF was operating 72 F-5As and 11 F-5Bs.<ref>[http://taiwanairpower.org/blog/?p=290 "ROCAF F-5A/B Program in CINCPAC History Series (Part 1)."] {{Webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111008221815/http://taiwanairpower.org/blog/?p=290 |date=8 October 2011}} ''taiwanairpower.org'', 21 February 2009. Retrieved: 14 September 2009.</ref> During 1972, the US borrowed 48 ROCAF F-5As to lend to the Republic of Vietnam Air Force before the withdrawal of US forces from Vietnam. By 1973, most of those loaned F-5As were not in flying condition, thus the US opted to return 20 F-5As to Taiwan by drawing nine F-5As from US reserves while repairing 11 from South Vietnam. An additional 28 new F-5Es were issued to Taiwan by May 1975.<ref>[http://taiwanairpower.org/blog/?p=74 "F-5A/B Freedom Fighter (Part 1)."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728082253/http://taiwanairpower.org/blog/?p=74 |date=28 July 2011}} ''taiwanairpower.org'', 16 July 2006. Retrieved: 14 September 2009.</ref> By 1973, Taiwan's AIDC started local production of a first batch of 100 F-5Es, the first of six Peace Tiger production batches. By end of 1986 when the production line closed after completing Peace Tiger 6, the AIDC had produced 242 F-5Es and 66 F-5Fs. Taiwan was the largest operator of the type at one time, having 336 F-5E/Fs in inventory.<ref>[http://www.taiwanairpower.org/af/f5.html "Northrop F-5E/F Tiger II."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091121120004/http://www.taiwanairpower.org/af/f5.html |date=21 November 2009}} ''taiwanairpower.org'', 13 April 2008. Retrieved: 14 September 2009.</ref> The last batch of AIDC F-5E/Fs featured the F-20's shark nose.<ref name=Johnsen_p35>{{harvnb|Johnsen|2006|p=35}}</ref> With the introduction of 150 F-16s, 60 Mirage 2000-5s and 130 F-CK-1s in the mid-to-late-1990s, the F-5E/F series became second line fighters in ROCAF service and mostly are now withdrawn from service as squadrons converted to new fighters entering ROCAF service. Seven low airframe hours F-5Es were sent to ST Aerospace to convert them to RF-5E standard to fulfill a reconnaissance role previously undertaken by the retiring [[Lockheed F-104 Starfighter|Lockheed RF-104G]] in ROCAF service.<ref>[http://www.taiwanairpower.org/af/rf5e.html "RF-5E Tigergazer."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927084257/http://www.taiwanairpower.org/af/rf5e.html |date=27 September 2011}} ''taiwanairpower'', 12 June 2004. Retrieved: 14 September 2009.</ref> As of 2009, only about 40 ROCAF F-5E/Fs still remain in service in training roles with about 90–100 F-5E/Fs held in reserve. The other retired F-5E/F are either scrapped, or used as decoys painted in colors representing the main front line F-16, Mirage 2000-5 or F-CK-1 fighters, and deployed around major air bases.<ref>[http://taiwanairpower.org/blog/?p=78 " F-5E – a la Mirage."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110728081313/http://taiwanairpower.org/blog/?p=78 |date=28 July 2011}} ''taiwanairpower.org'', 8 August 2006. Retrieved: 14 September 2009.</ref> Taiwan also tried to upgrade the F-5E/F fleet with AIDC's Tiger 2000/2001 program. The first flight took place on 24 July 2002. The program would replace the F-5E/F's radar with F-CK-1's GD-53 radar and allow the fighter to carry a single TC-2 BVRAAM on the centerline. But lack of interest from the ROCAF eventually killed the program. The only prototype is on display in AIDC in Central Taiwan.<ref>Hsu, Brian. [http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2002/07/30/158279 "Unwanted fighter jet takes to the air in first test flight."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080829182831/http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2002/07/30/158279 |date=29 August 2008}} ''taipeitimes.com'' The Taipei Times, 30 July 2002. Retrieved: 14 September 2009.</ref><ref>Jeziorski, Andrzej. [http://www.flightglobal.com/articles/1999/12/08/59451/aidc-pins-hopes-on-f-5-upgrade.html "AIDC pins hopes on F-5 upgrade."] ''flightglobal.com'', 12 August 1999. Retrieved: 14 September 2009.</ref> On 22 March 2021, two Taiwanese pilots flying F-5E's crashed into each other during a training mission resulting in the third crash within six months. Two pilots died after the crash.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Taiwan loses two fighter jets in apparent collision|url=https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2021/3/22/taiwan-loses-two-fighter-jets-in-apparent-collision|access-date=2021-03-22|website=www.aljazeera.com|language=en}}</ref> ===Turkey=== [[File:Turkish Air Force Northrop F5.jpg|thumb|A F-5/2000]] The Northrop F-5 Freedom Fighter has held an important place in the [[Turkish Air Force]] (Türk Hava Kuvvetleri - THK) since its introduction in the mid-1960s. Initially delivered through the United States' Military Assistance Program (MAP), the F-5A/B models served as light fighter-bombers and advanced jet trainers. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Turkey expanded its F-5 fleet with the acquisition of NF-5A/B aircraft from the Royal Netherlands Air Force. These variants featured upgraded avionics and structural improvements compared to the original F-5 models. Many of these NF-5s became iconic through their use by [[Türk Yıldızları]] (Turkish Stars), the Air Force's elite aerobatic team.<ref>https://strasam.org/savunma/havacilik-ve-uzay-sanayii/turk-yildizlarinin-ucagi-f-5-yuksek-satis-basarisini-yakalamisken-yerine-gelistirilen-f-20-tigersharklar-neden-hic-satis-yapamadi-2539</ref> To maintain the F-5's operational relevance and extend the aircraft's service life, Turkey launched the F-5/2000 modernization program in the late 1990s by [[Israeli Military Industries]]. This program aimed to upgrade 48 aircraft, primarily for use as lead-in fighter trainers to support the Turkish Air Force’s F-16 fleet. The modernization involved extensive airframe life extension, improved cockpit ergonomics, and significant avionics upgrades. These included the integration of a modern head-up display (HUD), multifunction displays, a digital mission computer, and an embedded GPS/INS navigation system. Additionally, the aircraft received a new stores management system, enabling compatibility with modern training ordnance and systems. The result was a more capable and reliable platform for pilot training and support roles, bridging the technological gap between older jet trainers and fourth-generation fighters.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.savunmasanayist.com/turkiyenin-f-5a-b-freedom-fighter-seruveni/ | title=Türkiye'nin F-5A/B Freedom Fighter Serüveni | SavunmaSanayiST | date=13 August 2020 }}</ref> ===South Vietnam / Vietnam=== [[File:F-5C VNAF 23TW 522FS BienHoa 1971.jpg|thumb|right|[[Republic of Vietnam Air Force|RVNAF]] F-5C [[Bien Hoa Air Base]], 1971]] [[File:Vietnamese Air Force Northrop F-5A after landing at U-Tapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield, Thailand, 29 April 1975.jpg|thumb|right|RNVAF F-5A after landing at [[U-Tapao Royal Thai Navy Airfield]], 29 April 1975]] In June 1967, the US donated the surviving aircraft of 10th FCS USAF to South Vietnam. The president of South Vietnam had asked the US for F-4 Phantoms, but these were in high demand, while the [[Republic of Vietnam Air Force]] (RVNAF) was flying only ground support missions, operating only [[Douglas A-1 Skyraider]] attackers at that point. In addition, the [[North Vietnam]]ese [[Vietnam People's Air Force]] (VPAF) was not sending aircraft over South Vietnam. Hence the RVNAF did not require an aircraft with advanced air to air capabilities (like the F-4). A dedicated RVNAF unit was formed – the 522nd Fighter Squadron. 248 RVNAF aircraft were flown out of South Vietnam to Thailand during the [[Fall of Saigon]] in 1975. At least 25 F-5Es were reclaimed by the US, while one F-5B was transferred to Thailand.<ref name=CINCPAC75>{{cite web|url=https://nautilus.org/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/c_seventyfive.pdf|title=CINCPAC Command History 1975|publisher=Commander in Chief Pacific|date=7 October 1976|access-date=19 January 2024|pages=467–70}}{{PD-notice}}</ref> North Vietnam captured approximately 877 aircraft, of which 87 were reported as F-5As and 27 were F-5Es.<ref name="auto">{{cite web|url=http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/vietnam-really-planning-bringing-back-50-year-old-american-20764|title=Is Vietnam Really Planning on Bringing Back 50-Year-Old American Fighter Planes?|first=Michael|last=Peck|website=The National Interest|date=21 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170625190303/http://nationalinterest.org/blog/the-buzz/vietnam-really-planning-bringing-back-50-year-old-american-20764|archive-date=25 June 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> In November 1975, the Vietnamese government gave the Soviet military an opportunity to select captured US equipment for research and intelligence purposes. A complete F-5, along with two complete spare engines, spare parts, and ground support equipment, were loaded onto a Soviet cargo ship.<ref>Toperczer (29) pp. 80, 81.</ref> Several other F-5s were later transferred by Vietnam to the USSR, Poland and Czechoslovakia.<ref name="joebaugher.com"/><ref>[http://www.muzeumlotnictwa.pl/zbiory_sz.php?ido=50&w=a Photo of a Northrop F-5E Tiger II] in [[Kraków]], Poland a gift of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.{{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130329132708/http://muzeumlotnictwa.pl/zbiory_sz.php?ido=50&w=a |date=29 March 2013}} ''muzeumlotnictwa.pl''. Retrieved: 15 May 2010.</ref> The VPAF reportedly used 41 F-5s operationally. Others were decommissioned and put on display at museums in Vietnam. The 935th Fighter Regiment of the VPAF 372nd Air Division became the only unit in the world to simultaneously fly both the MiG-21 and F-5.{{citation needed|date=September 2022}} The type was used for combat by the VPAF, in ground–attack sorties against the [[Khmer Rouge]]. Gradually, a lack of critical spare parts in Vietnam caused initially by a US embargo and later by termination of manufacturing and dwindling stocks – grounded the remaining F-5s. However, in May 2017 it was reported that the VPAF was considering upgrading particular systems in some retired aircraft, in order to put them back into service.<ref name="auto"/> ===Venezuela=== {{more citations needed section|date=March 2017}} [[File:Venezuelan Air Force Northrop (Canadair) VF-5A (CL-226) Schleiffert-1.jpg|thumb|Venezuela Air Force Northrop (Canadair) VF-5A (CL-226)]] After a reorganization of the [[Venezuelan Air Force]] in the late 1960s, the government realized that it was time to replace its obsolete de Havilland Vampires and [[de Havilland Venom|Venoms]] active at that time, as well as the last surviving F-86 Sabres in active duty. In 1971, 54 Canadian-built CF-5As were put in storage, after the RCAF could not take them due to budget cuts. From this batch, Venezuela acquired 16 CF-5As and two CF-5Ds. In 1972, after all the aircraft were delivered, the F-86s, Venoms, and Vampires were finally scrapped. The F-5 became the first military plane in Venezuela capable of flying at supersonic speeds. After a legal dispute between Canadair and Northrop, two more CF-5Ds were built and delivered to Venezuela in 1974. Their first base of operations was the General Rafael Urdaneta Air Base in [[Maracaibo]]. After 1974, the fleet was relocated to Teniente Vicente Landaeta Gil Air Base in [[Barquisimeto]]. In 1979, after several upgrades to the fleet's communication, navigation and approximation equipment, the aircraft were renamed VF-5s, designating the CF-5As as VF-5As and the CF-5Ds as VF-5Ds. Venezuelan F-5s could also carry weaponry such as the AIM-9 Sidewinder missile, Mk.82 and M117 bombs, and 70mm rocket launchers. In 1991, after tensions between Colombia and Venezuela almost led to a conflict, the air force started yet another modernization program for the F-5s, called "Proyecto Grifo" (Project Gryphon). Some aircraft (VF-5D number 5681 and VF-5A number 9124) were sent to Singapore for testing, then brought back for upgrade of the remaining airframes. That same year, a small fleet of four NF-5Bs and a single NF-5A, was acquired from the Netherlands to replace aircraft lost in previous years. In 1992, [[1992 Venezuelan coup d'état attempts|during the coup d'état attempt against president Carlos Andres Perez]], 3 F-5s were lost to a rebel-operated [[OV-10 Bronco]] bombing Barquisimeto Air Base. The failed coup delayed the modernization program for a year, finally coming together in 1993. The fleet was equipped with inertial laser navigation systems (similar to those in Venezuelan F-16s), IFFs, HUDs, refueling probes and modernized engines with an estimated lifespan of 22 years. In 2002, small upgrades were made to the remaining F-5s. The fleet was kept operational until 2010, when a batch of [[Hongdu JL-8]]s was delivered as their replacement. By late 2010, it was known that at least one VF-5D was in flight-worthy condition; it is unknown if more aircraft are in operational condition. Between 1972 and 2002, a total of 9 Venezuelan F-5s were lost.<ref name="fav-club.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.fav-club.com/2015/12/19/el-caza-bombardero-ligero-vf-5-en-la-fuerza-aerea-venezolana/|title=El caza bombardero ligero VF-5 en la Fuerza Aérea Venezolana – FAV-Club|date=19 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170517101512/http://www.fav-club.com/2015/12/19/el-caza-bombardero-ligero-vf-5-en-la-fuerza-aerea-venezolana/|archive-date=17 May 2017|url-status=usurped|access-date=25 March 2017}}</ref>{{unreliable source?|date=December 2022}} ===Yemen=== In March 1979, following [[Yemen Arab Republic|North Yemen]]'s defeat in the [[Yemenite War of 1979]], the [[United States]] gave [[Saudi Arabia]] the permission to transfer four Northrop F-5B trainers to North Yemen. Additionally, Saudi Arabia financed the procurement of twelve F-5E fighters.<ref name="HSOY 1 p40" /> By the end of the year, all 16 aircraft had arrived. This did not leave enough time to properly train local pilots and ground crews to operate them. Hence, the Saudis agreed with Taiwan to deploy a group of 80 Republic of China Air Force pilots and ground personnel to [[Sana'a]]. They formed the 112th Squadron of the [[Yemeni Air Force|Yemen Arab Republic Air Force]] (YARAF), which was also known as the Desert Squadron. Most of the Squadron's members were Taiwanese until 1985, by when enough Yemenis were trained on the F-5 to take over their duties. However, some Taiwanese personnel remained in the country: in 1990, no less than 700 Taiwanese served in Yemen. They were finally withdrawn in 1991, after the [[Yemeni unification]].<ref name="HSOY 1 p41">{{harvnb|Cooper|2017|p=41}}</ref> North Yemeni F-5Es have seen combat during the [[Yemeni Civil War (1994)|1994 civil war]]. On 6 May, two [[South Yemen]]i [[MiG-21]]s were claimed shot down by Major Nabi Ali Ahmad, using AIM-9 missiles. According to South Yemeni sources, only one MiG-21bis was shot down in an air combat, and its pilot killed. Reportedly, the North Yemenis subsequently deployed their Tiger IIs for air-to-air combat only.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|2017|page=47}}</ref> On 15 May, two helicopters (probably [[Mil Mi-8]]s) were shot down, one of them supposedly by Major Nabi Ali Ahmad.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|2017|page=48}}</ref> On 28 May, an F-5E was shot down by [[Anti-aircraft warfare|anti-aircraft fire]].<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|2017|page=49}}</ref> On 20 June, a South Yemeni MiG-21 was shot down over [[Al Anad Air Base]] in an air combat with two F-5Es, and its pilot was killed.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|2017|page=51}}</ref> Lastly, on 29 June, an encounter between two YARAF F-5Es and a single South Yemeni [[MiG-29]] was reported. However, neither side opened fire.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|2017|pages=52–53}}</ref> Following the North's victory in the civil war, the F-5 fleet was integrated into the unified Yemeni Air Force. However, the number of F-5s in service declined over the years. In 2003, there were negotiations with Singapore for the overhaul and upgrade of the remaining aircraft. However, nothing came out of it.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|2018|page=14}}</ref> Around 2010, only six aircraft were operational, partly thanks to US aid packages.<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|2018|pages=14,29}}</ref> In the night of 29–30 March 2015, at least one F-5B and one F-5E were destroyed on the ground at [[Sanaa International Airport]] by [[Royal Saudi Air Force]] bombardments, in the first days of the [[Saudi Arabian–led intervention in Yemen|Saudi-led intervention]].<ref>{{harvnb|Cooper|2018|page=43}}</ref> ===Others=== [[File:Saudi Tiger.JPEG|thumb|Royal Saudi Air Force F-5F taking off during the Gulf War.]] Saudi Arabia deployed F-5Es during the [[Gulf War]], flying close air support and aerial interdiction missions against Iraqi units in [[Kuwait]]. One Royal Saudi Air Force F-5E was lost to ground fire on 13 February 1991, resulting in the death of the pilot.<ref>[http://www.rjlee.org/air/ds-aaloss/ "Coalition Fixed-Wing Combat Aircraft Attrition in Desert Storm."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120312002904/http://www.rjlee.org/air/ds-aaloss/ |date=12 March 2012}} ''rjlee.org.'' Retrieved: 24 April 2012.</ref> [[AeroGroup]], a private commercial company in the US, operates the CF-5B as a fighter lead-in aircraft for training and for other support services. There were 17 aircraft originally purchased from the Canadian Government with [[US State Department]] approval and then imported into the US in 2006.<ref>[http://a4skyhawk.org/9e/aerogrp/aerogrp.htm "TADS (Tactical Air Defense Services, Inc."] {{webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140223084408/http://a4skyhawk.org/9e/aerogrp/aerogrp.htm |date=23 February 2014}} ''A-4 Skyhawk Association''. Retrieved: 23 December 2014.</ref><ref>Luark, C. [http://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article2908.html "AeroGroup trains Belgium F-16 Pilots at KB."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140221173826/http://www.f-16.net/f-16-news-article2908.html |date=21 February 2014}} ''f-16.net'', 2 June 2008. Retrieved: 23 December 2014.</ref><ref>[http://www.aerogroupinc.com/ "Train Like You Fight...Fight Like You Train."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140225063447/http://www.aerogroupinc.com/ |date=25 February 2014}} ''aerogroupinc.com'', 2014. Retrieved: 23 December 2014.</ref> Since 2013, Tunisian F-5s have been used in strike missions in support of major [[Chaambi Operations|military offensives in the border region of Mount Chaambi]] against [[Ansar al-Sharia (Tunisia)|Ansar al-Sharia]] and [[Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb|al-Qaeda]]-linked militants.<ref>Chennoufi, A. [http://www.tunivisions.net/45214/235/149/tunisie-regions-bombardements-aerien-et-terrestre-des-refuges-de-53-terroristes-a-jebal-chaambi-a-l-aide-d-avions-f-5.html "Tunisia Regions: air and land bombardments shelters 53 terrorists Jebal Châambi using F-5."]{{dead link|date=March 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes}} ''tunivisions.net'', 2 August 2013. Retrieved: 23 December 2014.</ref><ref>Abdelmoumen, Khalil. [http://www.webdo.tn/2014/04/24/chaambi-pilonnage-intensif-laide-f5/ "Jebel Chaâmbi: Intensive shelling using F5."] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141224071530/http://www.webdo.tn/2014/04/24/chaambi-pilonnage-intensif-laide-f5/ |date=24 December 2014}} ''webdo'', 24 April 2014. Retrieved: 23 December 2014.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.webdo.tn/2013/08/12/les-chasseurs-f-5-entrent-en-action-a-jebel-samama/|title=Les chasseurs F-5 entrent en action à Jebel Samama|date=12 August 2013|access-date=5 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130816094903/http://www.webdo.tn/2013/08/12/les-chasseurs-f-5-entrent-en-action-a-jebel-samama/|archive-date=16 August 2013|url-status=dead}}</ref> F-5s were used by the Libyan Air Force at [[Wheelus Air Base]] in [[Tripoli, Libya]] from 1968 to 1969.{{citation needed|date=April 2022}}
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