Chilean Air Force evaluates F-35 to replace aging F-5 fleet

The Chilean Air Force (FACh) recently held a ceremony at El Bosque Air Base to commemorate 50 years of operations for the Northrop F-5E/F Tiger III. During the event, institutional representatives noted that the aircraft have been modernized with Israeli technology and are armed with missiles described as fifth-generation, though official inventories typically list the fourth-generation Python IV.

As the F-5 fleet reaches its technical limits, the FACh is evaluating options for a progressive replacement plan. Potential candidates include the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II or increasing the current fleet of F-16 fighters. Brigadier General Milton Zablah stated that the retirement of the F-5 will be a gradual process, as the institution must consider financial sustainability, maintenance, and infrastructure integration.

The history of the F-5 in Chile also includes past controversies from the 1980s involving FAMAE and international arms sales involving Iran, highlighting the long and complex operational history of this airframe in the country.