Dangerous 1/32 RF-5E Tigereye Conversion First Look

By Michael Benolkin

First Look

Dangerous is an aftermarket detail company based in Taiwan that produces an interesting range of conversions tailored at adapting existing kits to accurately represent the aircraft as operated by the Republic of China Air Force (ROCAF). This set converts the Hasegawa 1/32 F-5E Tiger II into the RF-5E Tigereye, with a few extra details unique to the Republic of China Air Force (RoCAF).

This 18 piece conversion starts with a completely new nose section. The new nose attaches at a panel line that you will use to remove the kit nose. The nose is nicely cast solid resin, so if there is even the slightest chance the basic kit needs ballast in the nose, this new nose will do perfectly. Onto the nose you'll add antennas that are fitted to the RoCAF examples along with the camera windows cast in clear resin.

Working aft, the kit provides a new scope for the cockpit (since the Tigereye doesn't have radar), new nosegear door, ventral flare launcher, new centerline pylon with anti-sway braces cast in place, and a ventral shield under the tail section.

In addition to the nicely cast nose, this set also has a well done centerline fuel tank that hangs from the new centerline pylon. Separately cast fins are also provided for the tank. Nice touch!

This is a simple, yet distinctive conversion for your Hasegawa kit as this is the only such conversion I'm aware of to render the Tigereye in 1/32 scale. If you want something a little different for your Hasegawa kit, give this conversion a try. You'll be impressed with the quality of their castings!

My sincere thanks to Dangerous for this review sample.