MiG-17 Fresco – PDF

The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17 “Fresco” was developed during the early 1950s as an improved successor to the MiG-15. Although outwardly similar to its predecessor, the MiG-17 incorporated a redesigned swept wing, improved aerodynamics, and other refinements intended to provide better handling and stability at high speeds. Later versions added an afterburning engine and radar, expanding the aircraft’s capabilities as both a day fighter and interceptor.

Entering Soviet service in the early 1950s, the MiG-17 became an important fighter for the Soviet Air Forces and was supplied extensively to Warsaw Pact and Soviet-aligned nations. It was also produced under license outside the Soviet Union, most notably as the Polish Lim series and the Chinese Shenyang J-5. Its relatively simple construction, heavy cannon armament, and good maneuverability helped keep the aircraft useful even as considerably faster supersonic fighters entered service.

The MiG-17 achieved particular prominence during the Vietnam War. North Vietnamese MiG-17s engaged technologically more advanced American fighters such as the F-4 Phantom II and F-8 Crusader. Although slower and lacking the sophisticated missile and radar systems of newer American aircraft, the MiG-17’s maneuverability and cannon armament made it dangerous in close-range air combat. Its wartime service demonstrated that speed and advanced technology alone did not eliminate the importance of traditional fighter maneuverability.

The MiG-17 also saw combat in the Middle East and Africa and served with numerous air forces throughout the Cold War. Eventually replaced in front-line Soviet service by aircraft such as the MiG-19 and MiG-21, the NATO-designated “Fresco” nevertheless remained operational elsewhere for decades. Its widespread use and extensive combat record made it one of the most recognizable Soviet fighters of the early Cold War.

Service Branch: Soviet Air Forces; numerous Soviet-allied air forces
Soviet Service: 1952–1960s
Number Built: 10,000+ (including licensed production)

What’s Included:

• 12 1.5” square counter images
• 24 1” square counter images
• 35 .75” square counter images
• 40 .625” square counter images
• Numbered Images to assist with game organization and tracking
• Printable PDF format for personal gaming use

Each image size is contained on a ½ sheet.

• Enables users to save paper and print 2 types of aircraft on the same page.
• Print one set of aircraft images then reverse the page in the printer and print a second type of your choice on the same page.