Hobby Master Archive

The Shenyang J-5 (NATO - Fresco) was a licensed version of the Soviet MiG-17. In the 1950s the PLAAF received several MiG-17As and designated them J-4 but in order for the PLAAF to use the latest production methods they needed newer aircraft so they obtained plans, kits and parts for the MiG-17F that would eventually become the J-5. The first built J-5 was serial 0101 and performed its maiden flight on July 19, 1956. This aircraft is on display at the China Aviation Museum located 40 km (25 mi) north of Beijing.