TJF-5 Albatross

The TJF-5 Albatross, like its namesake, appears as an ill omened bird with long wings. Designed to support the Mongoose with ground attack and heavy air to air support followup capabilities with per unit construction cost only several times that of the cheap TJF-3 Mongoose, the Albatross is, admittedly, neither the fleetest nor the nimblest fighter in the feet.

With dimensions only slightly smaller than the TJF-4 Javelin, the TJF-5 Albatross has a maximum load weight slightly less than the Javelin's unloaded weight and has a top speed of less than half that of that interceptor. However, the TJF-5 mounts a greater volume of immediately usable firepower, and costs substantially less; specially designed be able to paradrop an UBU, the TJF-5 is a potent and reliable ground attack fighter; in spite of the low price tag, TJAF engineers have managed to mount an ECM pod just aft of the bomb bay. Although nowhere near as sophisticated as the systems mounted on the TJB-3 Cyclops, wingmates in Mongooses will be glad for the EW support their own craft cannot provide.

Specifications in brief

Length

54'6"

Wingspan

31'1"

Height

14'6"

Combat Ceiling

50,000'

Maximum speed

880mph.

Armament(standard)

2 20mm cannon, 2 AA missiles, 2 rocket pods (7x66mm unguided rockets), 2 ASM/1,000 lb bombs, ECM pod, up to 2,000 lbs internal payload (may carry bombs and/or UBU, or additional fuel extending range by ~400 miles).

Range

700 miles fully loaded, 1100 with fuel tank placed in payload bay, 1600 miles w/external tanks, 2000 miles with external tanks and internal payload bay replaced by added internal fuel tank.

Empty weight

13,500 lbs.

Normal takeoff weight

21,000 lbs.

Maximum takeoff weight

26,500 lbs.