Airfix 1/72 Mikoyan MiG-17F 'Fresco' (Shenyang J-5) Fresco # 03091A

Mikoyan MiG-17F 'Fresco'
The Mikoyan MiG-17F, NATO reporting name "Fresco", is a Soviet jet fighter that became operational in 1952.

An improved version of the MiG-15, the MiG-17F featured an afterburner for enhanced performance, increased wingspan, and swept wings with a more advanced aerodynamic design.

It was renowned for its agility and high-speed performance, which made it effective in both air-to-air combat and ground-attack roles.

The MiG-17F was widely used during the Cold War and saw combat in various conflicts, including the Vietnam War, where it proved formidable against more modern aircraft due to its maneuverability.

Shenyang J-5
The Shenyang J-5 is a Chinese-built version of the MiG-17F, produced under license. Developed by the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation, the J-5 began production in 1956 and served as China's primary jet fighter for several decades.

It retained the MiG-17F's design and capabilities but was modified to meet Chinese production standards and operational requirements.

The J-5 played a significant role in the modernization of the People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) and was exported to several countries, contributing to China's influence in the aviation sector during the Cold War era.

Key Specifications:

Role: Fighter Aircraft
Manufacturer: Mikoyan-Gurevich (MiG-17F); Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (J-5)
First Flight: January 14, 1950 (MiG-17)
Crew: 1
Length: 11.26 meters (36 ft 11 in)
Wingspan: 9.63 meters (31 ft 7 in)
Max Speed: 1,145 km/h (711 mph)
Range: 1,080 km (671 miles)
Armament:1 × 37 mm Nudelman N-37 cannon
2 × 23 mm NR-23 cannons
Rockets and bombs

The MiG-17F and its Chinese counterpart, the J-5, stand as notable examples of early jet fighter design, influencing military aviation for decades.