MiG-17 “FRESCO”: Opposing Rolling Thunder 1965-68: 14 (Dogfight)

An illustrated account of the against-the-odds successes of the MiG-17 “Fresco” in action against US combat aircraft during Operation Rolling Thunder. Following their elite training in the USSR and China, the Vietnam People’s Air Force (VPAF) pilots chosen to fly the MiG-17 achieved some stunning triumphs against the best US fighters committed to action over North Vietnam.The low-speed/high-g maneuvering attacks employed by the communist pilots proved to be highly effective, with the MiG-17’s heavy-caliber cannon inflicting a rising toll on American aircraft including the F-8 Crusader, F-4 Phantom II, and F-105 Thunderchief. Drawing on archival photographs and first-hand accounts from the pilots involved, this engaging new study reveals how a handful of MiG-17 regiments achieved 40 aerial victories over considerably more advanced US combat aircraft types following the commencement of Operation Rolling Thunder in March 1965.Leading VPAF authority István Toperczer’s insightful research a