The MiG-17 entered service with the East German Air Force (Luftstreitkräfte der NVA) in the mid-1950s, forming the backbone of the GDR’s fighter force. It was used primarily as a day fighter and interceptor, defending East German airspace during the Cold War. The aircraft remained in frontline service until the early 1970s, after which it was gradually replaced by more modern MiG-21s, while some were retained for training and secondary roles.