The MiG-17 Fresco was a rarity-an "interim" aircraft that nonetheless went on to have a long and distinguished career in its own right. This Soviet fighter, a bridge between the MiG-15 and MiG-19, was slower than the US fighters that it faced in Vietnam. Still, it proved to be a formidable foe when used within a comprehensive air defense scheme. It was a general-purpose day fighter, but it also saw much action in the role of fighter-bomber.rnThe MiG-17's wings were thinner and longer than those of the MiG-15. They featured a sharper compound sweep of 45 degrees at center and 42 degrees outboard. A larger empennage enabled the MiG-17 to maneuver better at higher altitudes. It was also the first Soviet fighter to use an afterburner.
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