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CF-5 Fighter Jet

CF-5 Fighter Jet

Manufacturer: Canadair
Category: Fighter Jets
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Discontinued

Generation 2nd
Maximum Speed Mach 1.6
No. of Engines 2
Radar Range Limited (~30–50 km)

Full Specifications

General Information

Name	CF-5 Freedom Fighter
Manufacturer	Canadair
Country of Origin	Canada
Type / Role	Light Fighter / Trainer
Generation	2nd Generation
Status	Retired (Canada), limited use
First Flight	1968
Introduction / In Service Since	1968
Number Built	~240
Operators	Canada, Netherlands (NF-5), others

Dimensions & Structure

Length	14.7 m
Wingspan	8.1 m
Height	4.1 m
Wing Area	17.3 m²
Empty Weight	~4,350 kg
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	~11,200 kg
Internal Weapons Bay	None
External Hardpoints	7

Performance

Maximum Speed	Mach 1.6
Range	~1,400 km
Combat Radius	~550 km
Service Ceiling	51,800 ft
Rate of Climb	~34,500 ft/min
Thrust-to-Weight Ratio	~0.86
G Limits	+7.5

Powerplant

Engine Type	Turbojet
No. of Engines	2
Thrust (each)	~3,500 lbf
Thrust Vectoring	No
Fuel Capacity	~2,000 kg

Armament

Gun	2 × 20mm cannons
Missiles (Air-to-Air)	AIM-9 Sidewinder
Missiles (Air-to-Ground)	Limited
Bombs	Conventional bombs
Hardpoints	7
Payload Capacity	~3,200 kg

Avionics & Systems

Radar	Basic fire-control radar
Radar Range	~30–50 km
Electronic Warfare (EW) System	Limited
Targeting System	Basic
Helmet Display	No
Navigation	INS
Autopilot / AI Assistance	Basic autopilot
Communication	Standard military comms

Stealth & Technology

Radar Cross Section (RCS)	High
Stealth Features	None
Infrared Signature Reduction	Minimal
Sensor Fusion	No
Networking Capabilities	Limited

Variants

Special Export Versions

Limited exports

Operational History

Major Conflicts / Deployments	Cold War era deployments
Notable Operators	Canada
Combat Proven?	Limited
Mission Types	Training, patrol, light strike

Cost & Program

Unit Cost	~$2–3 million (historical)
Development Cost	Derived from F-5 program
Program Name	CF-5 Program
Funding Countries	Canada

Additional Information

Upgrades Planned	None
Future Replacement	CF-18 Hornet
Export Restrictions	Moderate
Notable Achievements	Cost-effective NATO light fighter
Competitors	MiG-21, A-4 Skyhawk

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

7.6

Technology 6 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Firepower 8 / 10
Range & Endurance 8 / 10
Reliability & Maintenance 8 / 10

PROS

Low acquisition and operating cost
High maneuverability and agility
Simple maintenance and logistics
Versatile for training and combat roles
Proven reliability in multiple environments

CONS

Limited payload capacity
Shorter range compared to modern fighters
Outdated avionics by current standards
Lacks advanced radar systems
No stealth capabilities

CF-5 Freedom Fighter Lightweight Jet

The CF-5 Freedom Fighter is a lightweight, supersonic combat aircraft developed for versatility, affordability, and ease of maintenance. Derived from the F-5 platform, the CF-5 was tailored for air defense, ground attack, and training missions. Its compact design, high maneuverability, and low operating costs made it a practical solution for air forces seeking reliable performance without the expense of larger fighters. The aircraft served primarily with Canada and select export operators, proving effective in both combat support and pilot training roles.

Manufacturer

The CF-5 was produced by Canadair under license from Northrop Corporation. Canadair modified the base F-5 design to meet specific operational needs, including improved navigation systems and compatibility with harsh weather conditions. The program reflects strong U.S.-Canada defense cooperation during the Cold War era.

Speed and Range

The CF-5 delivers a maximum speed of approximately Mach 1.6, powered by twin turbojet engines. It offers a range of around 1,400 km, extendable with external fuel tanks. Its combat radius supports short to medium-range missions, making it well suited for tactical strike and air patrol duties. The aircraft’s agility and rapid climb rate enhance survivability in contested environments.

Cost/Price

At the time of production, the CF-5 was considered a cost-effective fighter, with an estimated unit price significantly lower than heavier contemporaries. Its low lifecycle and maintenance costs remain a key advantage, especially for nations with limited defense budgets.

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