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A Rare F-5FM Amazed São Paulo with Impressive Aerial Passes! After Years of Repairs at PAMA-SP, the “Bicudo” Returned to the Skies in Grand Style, Showcasing Its Restored Fuselage and Reminding Us of the Strength of Brazilian Military Aviation. Discover All the Details of the Renaissance of This Iconic Fighter and What It Represents for the Future of FAB!
On the morning of this Monday, something unusual caught the attention of Paulistanos, especially those living near Campo de Marte, in the city’s North Zone.
The characteristic sound of J85 engines echoed through the skies, drawing many curious onlookers to their windows. But, unlike usual, it was not a routine flight of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB). What exactly was happening?
According to reports from specialists, the aircraft spotted was a rare F-5FM, the two-seat model of the renowned F-5 fighter, which gained fame for its versatility and durability over the decades.
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A low pass by one of these specimens is, in itself, a rare spectacle in the skies of the São Paulo capital, especially on a Monday. The event sparked speculation and curiosity.
What We Know About the F-5FM 4808
According to the portal Air Power, known for its detailed coverage of the aviation sector, the F-5FM 4808 had been out of action for several years.
The aircraft underwent a series of structural repairs and deep maintenance at the São Paulo Aeronautical Material Park (PAMA-SP), located next to Campo de Marte.
PAMA-SP is one of the main FAB facilities for conducting major inspections and repairs (IRAN, in English) on military aircraft.
According to verified information, the 4808 underwent a meticulous revitalization process, which included complex structural repairs, such as the installation of a new longeron in the front fuselage.
This component is crucial to ensure the structural integrity of the fighter, especially during high-performance maneuvers.
The photos provided by Air Power show stages of this process, including work carried out in 2023 and final tests conducted in September 2024.
Why the Return of the 4808 is Significant?
The F-5FM, in its two-seat version, plays an important role in the advanced training of FAB pilots. Additionally, the model can be used in operational missions, providing flexibility to the air force.
The return of the 4808 represents not only the recovery of an important operational unit but also highlights PAMA-SP’s ability to perform high-level maintenance, extending the lifespan of these aircraft.
Historically, the F-5 is one of the longest-serving fighters in operation in Brazil. Introduced in the 1970s, it has undergone numerous upgrades over the years, receiving enhancements that include advanced navigation systems, multimode radar, and the ability to operate modern armaments.
The two-seat model, such as the 4808, is particularly rare and valuable, making the event on this Monday even more special.
How the Maintenance Process Was Conducted
FAB F-5 fighters usually arrive at PAMA-SP by ground transport from the São Paulo Air Base (BASP), located in Guarulhos.
Once at the park, the aircraft undergo a detailed analysis that identifies possible structural damage and systems needing repair or replacement. The case of the 4808 was particularly challenging due to the time it had been out of operation.
The released photos show the fighter being disassembled, highlighting work done on the hydraulic system and the fuselage.
In September 2024, once reassembled, the F-5FM underwent final tests, including the activation of the landing gear legs and doors. These tests are essential to ensure that the aircraft is in perfect condition to fly again.
A Show in the Paulist Skies
After completing the maintenance stage at PAMA-SP, the 4808 was transported back to BASP to conduct ground tests and its first flight after revitalization.
It is common practice for newly maintained aircraft to perform low passes as part of performance testing.
For the 4808, these passes coincided with a rare moment when FAB showcased one of its “Bicudos” to the Paulist public on a Monday.
The powerful sound of the J85 engines is unmistakable for those who follow military aviation. It carries the memory of decades of service of the F-5, which has become a symbol of defense aviation in Brazil.
The performance of the 4808 in the capital’s skies was a reminder that even after years of use, these aircraft still have a lot to offer.
The Future of the F-5 in FAB
Although the F-5 has served FAB with distinction, it is known that the fleet is approaching the end of its useful life.
With the introduction of the Gripen E/F, acquired through the FX-2 program, it is expected that the F-5 will be gradually replaced.
However, the return of the 4808 demonstrates that FAB continues to invest in the maintenance and modernization of these fighters, ensuring their operation until the new Gripens are fully integrated into the fleet.
Furthermore, the experience gained at PAMA-SP over the years will be crucial for supporting the Gripens, which will also require high-level maintenance to operate effectively.
A Historical Curiosity
The 4808 has already been featured in past editions of the Defense Forces magazine, depicted in a special report on the operational transition from the A-29 Super Tucano to the F-5M.
The article, published in 2012, showcased the jet in action at Santa Cruz Air Base in Rio de Janeiro. This story only reinforces the significant role of the 4808 in Brazilian military aviation.
The airshow starring the F-5FM 4808 on this Monday was more than just a simple test. It celebrated the technical expertise of PAMA-SP and reaffirmed FAB’s commitment to maintaining its fleet.
As the Paulist skies were cut by the thunderous sound of the J85 engines, a new page in the history of the 4808 was being written.
Have you ever had the opportunity to witness a low pass by a fighter? What do you think of the future of Brazilian military aviation with the arrival of the Gripen?
Um é pouco. Mas muito melhor que zero.
O Brasil tem tudo para fabricar seu caça, só falta investimento ao invés de pagar emenda parlamentar e verba eleitoral que só enche bolso de político s….. Investir em tecnologia eh o futuro deste país.
Engenharia reversa!! É chegado a hora da EMBRAER E CIA realizarem projeto nacional de um caça 100% made in Brasil. Pessoal competente nós já temos. Falta investimento e comprometimento de políticos sérios.