- The MiG-17 (NATO codename "Fresco") was designed as the succesor to the MiG-15 by a team of constructors under the leadership of Artem Ivanonich Mikoyan. The first production batch rolled off the assembly lines in August 1951. Early in 1952, Mig-17s fitted with VK-1A turbojet engines (as used in the MiG-15 bis) began to reach frontline units. The improved MiG-17F, witch entered operational service in 1953, was equipped with the VK-1F engine (with afterburner) - "F" standing for forsirovannyj, meaning "afterburner- boosted". It was the most commonly used subvariant. The new engine provide and afterburning thrust of 3,312 kN, which gave the aricraft a notably better climb rate and top ceiling. The new variant also featured reshaped air brakes and upgraded avionics. Later production batches introduced the SRD-1M radar gunsight and a new stabilized ejection seat.