Hobby Master Archive

August 1997 the ROCAF began to receive their single-seat RF-5E’s to replace the aging RF-104G. Seven low-hour F-5E’s were converted by Singapore Aerospace and given the name “Tigergazer”. To accomplish this, existing radar and one M39 cannon were removed and the nose extended 8 inches. Six openings were added for the new cameras and ballast added between the engine exhausts to balance the additional weight of the new nose. RF-5E 5501 serial 83-0085 and formerly F-5E 5315 was assigned to 401st TFW, 12th TRS “Tigergazer” at Hualien Airbase.