Airfix Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17F 'Fresco' (Shenyang J-5) 1:72 Plastic Kit

This detailed 1:72 scale model of the Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-17F 'Fresco' provides enthusiasts with the opportunity to recreate a pivotal fighter from the Cold War era. Comprising 87 parts, a wingspan of 134mm, and offering two distinct livery options, this skill level 2 kit embodies the agile Soviet interceptor that demonstrated its prowess during the Vietnam conflict. Suitable for modellers aged 8 and older, this plastic model lets you construct an aircraft that became the primary fighter for the Warsaw Pact during the 1950s and beyond.

Key Features

• Two genuine livery options for diverse display choices
• 134mm wingspan accurately reflects the compact nature of this nimble fighter
• 87 components provide a challenging build for skill level 2 modellers
• 1:72 scale depiction of the iconic MiG-17F 'Fresco'
• Includes sprues and decals for precise finishing touches
• Appropriate for ages 8 and up

History

At the conclusion of World War II, victorious Allied countries were eager to acquire insights into German jet advancements and high-speed research that could be applied to their own jet development. Leveraging this knowledge and engine technology sourced from Britain, the Soviet Union launched the compact Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-15 in 1949, a standout among early jet fighters. While this aircraft was proving its effectiveness in the Korean War, the Soviets were already developing its successor.

The larger and swifter MiG-17 Fresco might have resembled an enlarged version of its predecessor, but it was a completely new design, featuring numerous enhancements over the MiG-15 and marking a significant leap in Soviet jet capabilities. The MiG-17 was crafted to target bombers, not for dogfighting. Nevertheless, its remarkable agility enabled it to achieve combat successes against much heavier and more advanced American aircraft. The Vietnam War was a reality check for the US Air Force, as some of their cutting-edge aircraft fell to the MiG-17's guns. Lighter and more agile than US planes, the subsonic MiG-17 scored victories over aircraft like the F-105 Thunderchief and McDonnell Douglas Phantom, prompting the US to develop new nimble air superiority fighters.

With outstanding performance, cost-effectiveness, and ease of maintenance, the durable MiG-17 was mass-produced and became the standard fighter for the Warsaw Pact from the mid-1950s for the following decade, with production under licence in China and Poland. It became a favoured choice for many smaller air forces worldwide, with over thirty nations eventually operating the type. Ironically, for a nation the MiG-17 was designed to oppose, the United States became home to many of these aircraft, mostly acquired by private collectors, with a few used in trials against different aircraft types to refine combat tactics against smaller, more agile jets. Two meticulously restored examples have also been popular performers at US airshows over the years.