When i was younger, i assisted with a company who was restoring a MiG-17 and a MiG-21.

After many years since i did this work, it is interesting to still see both these types of warbirds not flying. Very few of the frontline Russian jets do fly. mainly trainers that do.

I have wondered over the years, all the money spent on these 2 planes by the owners has it gone to waste perhaps?, as both now still sit very quietly in museums i recall.

So all up importing, restoration, limited flying and then static.
Was it worth it and was there enjoyment from it?
Only the owners can know that i guess.

I can only speak about the MiG-17. If it was restored to airworthy condition, and the engine is well preserved it is not a very big deal to make it fly again…
As we operate a MiG-15 here in Poland I can help you if you are interested… 🙂