F-5C Skoshi Tiger 64-13332 10th Fighter Commando Sqn. USAF Bien Hoa AFB 1965 in 1:72 scale
This is the F-5C Skoshi Tiger 64-13332 10th Fighter Commando Sqn. USAF Bien Hoa AFB 1965 in 1:72 scale by Hobby Master.
The F‑5C “Skoshi Tiger” 64‑13332, flown by the 10th Fighter Commando Squadron from Bien Hoa AFB in 1965, was the centerpiece of the USAF’s experimental Project Skoshi Tiger combat evaluation. Unlike typical heavier jets of the era, it was a lightweight, agile fighter modified with in‑flight refueling probe, bolstered armor, and jettisonable pylons—all to test the viability of a “small but capable” fighter-bomber in real combat over Vietnam. Its exceptional reliability and ease of maintenance made it less vulnerable on low-level strike runs and ideal for high-sortie operations—logging 3,500 combat sorties with only two losses. The success of 64‑13332 and its squadron not only influenced F‑5 sales to allied nations but also showcased how lean design and operational economy could outperform many larger, costlier aircraft in asymmetric warfare conditions.
Hobby Master has earned a reputation as one of the top-tier brands for die-cast aircraft due to its meticulous attention to detail, durable metal build, and rich historical accuracy. Collectors often praise their models for realistic panel lines, pad‑printed placards, functional features like removable canopies and landing gear, and authentic detachable ordnance—all hallmarks of their popular Air Power Series. Hobbyists consider Hobby Master “top‑notch,” ideal for collectors seeking museum‑grade realism and durable craftsmanship
The F‑5C “Skoshi Tiger” 64‑13332, flown by the 10th Fighter Commando Squadron from Bien Hoa AFB in 1965, was the centerpiece of the USAF’s experimental Project Skoshi Tiger combat evaluation. Unlike typical heavier jets of the era, it was a lightweight, agile fighter modified with in‑flight refueling probe, bolstered armor, and jettisonable pylons—all to test the viability of a “small but capable” fighter-bomber in real combat over Vietnam. Its exceptional reliability and ease of maintenance made it less vulnerable on low-level strike runs and ideal for high-sortie operations—logging 3,500 combat sorties with only two losses. The success of 64‑13332 and its squadron not only influenced F‑5 sales to allied nations but also showcased how lean design and operational economy could outperform many larger, costlier aircraft in asymmetric warfare conditions.
Hobby Master has earned a reputation as one of the top-tier brands for die-cast aircraft due to its meticulous attention to detail, durable metal build, and rich historical accuracy. Collectors often praise their models for realistic panel lines, pad‑printed placards, functional features like removable canopies and landing gear, and authentic detachable ordnance—all hallmarks of their popular Air Power Series. Hobbyists consider Hobby Master “top‑notch,” ideal for collectors seeking museum‑grade realism and durable craftsmanship
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