I built this for the Latin American Aircraft GB on here. It is Monogram’s mid 1980’s 1/48 kit of the F-20, the ultimate development of the F-5 series. I built the kit mostly OOB aside from weapons from my spares collection, scratch built antenna on the fuselage spine, and used Aztec Decals from their MAF F-5E/F sheet for my what if markings. It really is a beautiful kit of a beautiful aircraft. There are some fit issues around the intakes that are easily fixed. I am half tempted to see if I can find another to build, but with some many other kits in my stash, that is not too likely. There are lots of little flaws in my work, but overall I am happy with the finished build. Paint colors are Humbrol Enamels.
Comments and critiques welcome, thanks for looking…
Thank you JB & Fly. Tex, this is my first “what if?” build ever. Now I see the allure of them- truly build and paint any way you like. TJ, I agree about the “too bad” story of the Tigershark. The greatest fighter that never was. I did a bit if research during this build and am not too impressed by the Air Force politicking related to the F20 program. Thanks for the kind words again guys.
Finally made it over here, Stick. Great work on your ‘what if’ project! It came out beautifully. Thanks for sharing so many good pictures. Truly awesome work!
So, what did the Texican AF fly in this scenario? F-107’s?
I like what-ifs too. I’ve done a few; my rule-of-thumb is that they have to have several degrees of logic.Your posit that Mexico is a very satisfied customer of the F-5 is a good one to go from.
Maybe El Salvador bought F-7U Cutlasses because of their positive experience with the Corsair?
Argentina wanted to buy a Vulcan in 1981, and members of their Navy were at the launching of the Sheffield because they were in town for the laying of the keel of their own Type 42 destroyer. They also witnessed demonstrations of the Harrier.
I still am working on the scenario in my head. As you can see this is primarily a fast ground attack type for dealing with guys on the ground… Like those pesky insurgents down in Chiapas… Of course air to air against the Cartel smugglers aircraft is a secondary tasking with those AIM-9Ps
Stik, if this is an onerous high-jack, please just say so and I’ll remove it my friend. I just think “what ifs” are cool. I predict we’ll see more of your fine work on another one before too long. The F-1 and the F-20 would look good in formation together against those pesky cartels.
I don’t mind one bit at all about the discussion meandering a bit… This is all about fun… I had forgotten about your CSAF Mirage. No need to remove anything here my friend.
I miss the old bugger too… I just read thru that whole thread. That was potentially a LOT of fun for a future “what if?” GB forming there… And of course another idea formed in my head… Well at least if I have the urge, I have a kit or two that will do if need be…
