The Northrop F-20 Tigershark was a lightweight supersonic fighter developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s as a private venture by Northrop to modernize the successful F-5 family for export customers. First flown in 1982, the F-20 featured a single General Electric F404 engine, advanced avionics, beyond-visual-range missile capability, and exceptional reliability, allowing it to start, scramble, and reach combat readiness faster than most contemporary fighters. Despite strong performance, competitive cost, and interest from several U.S. allies, the aircraft ultimately failed to secure major orders due to shifting U.S. export policies and competition from aircraft like the F-16. Only three prototypes were built before the program was canceled in 1986, but the F-20 remains notable as one of the most capable fighters never to enter production.