Follow along with the video below to see how to install our site as a web app on your home screen.
Note: This feature may not be available in some browsers.
Given the differences in tail fins (note the little flat surface at the top), I wonder if that is indeed a T-38 . . .
What's the deal with the "BUNO" on the one F-5 there? It almost looks like an AF number, but even that isn't right. Or did the Navy buy 600,000 more aircraft and no one said anything?
From a walk-about on Fallon Flightline last Thursday
![]()
Given the differences in tail fins (note the little flat surface at the top), I wonder if that is indeed a T-38 . . .
It is.
![]()
^^^I worked on that A/C back in the 90's at Randolph AFB. God I hate that airframe! I worked on 90% of the Air Forces T38's.It is.
![]()
Since the T-38 and F-5 were both Northrop products developed from same common fuselage, wings, engines, etc. but F-5E and F model as well as short-lived G have distinctively different noses with radar and gun(s).
What's the deal with the "BUNO" on the one F-5 there? It almost looks like an AF number, but even that isn't right. Or did the Navy buy 600,000 more aircraft and no one said anything?
Aircraft bought on Air Force contracts often retain their Air Force serial numbers that begin with the Fiscal Year they were bought. Most of these are ex-Swiss aircraft.
![]()
Here's another one for you then. I'll upload some more just for you when I get a chance.
Judging by the tail, that is an NSAWC jet. Many joint Navy/USMC commands will have either some of their aircraft marked "NAVY" and some "MARINES," or have one on one side of the fuselage and the other on the opposite side.I wasn't aware that Marines fly F-16s in the Adversary Squadrons. "Bogeys and Bandits" mentioned that they typically only fly F-5s (then again the book was written over 10 years ago). Cool.
I'm surprised the Air Force hasn't adopted this paint scheme.