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DOG 14 MiG-17 “FRESCO”: Opposing Rolling Thunder 1965–68
By István Toperczer
Illustrated by Gareth Hector, Jim Laurier and Tim Brown
18/03/2027

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 aerial victories 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 very 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 and tactical analysis sheds fresh light on the important role played by the “Fresco” in the defense of North Vietnam. The book’s engaging text is complemented by action-packed ribbon diagrams, battlescene artwork and a detailed cutaway armament view.