Yemen Air Force shows restored F‑5F fighters in strike on Sana’a airport runway

Yemeni Air Force publicly displayed F‑5F Tiger II jets, the first appearance in years, confirming that it has restored part of its operational capability after heavy losses since 2015.

The aircraft were employed in a recent operation that struck the runway of Sana’a International Airport. The Ministry of Defense said the mission was intended to prevent an Iranian aircraft from landing, and deputy commander Lt. Gen. Abdulaziz al‑Muhaya affirmed the use of the re‑conditioned fighters.

The two‑seat F‑5F, introduced to Yemen in 1979 through a Saudi‑funded purchase, can carry air‑to‑air and air‑to‑ground weapons. Officials did not disclose how many jets have been returned to service or the exact munitions used in the strike.