The jet engine in the Mig-17 is a Klimov VK-1, and it was also used in the Mig-15. The VK-1 is a “centrifugal compressor” engine, which increases the pressure of the air by spinning it outward. This is different from modern “axial compressor” engines that increase the pressure in stages along the axis of the engine. The VK-1 was based on the Rolls Royce Nene engine, which the British had sold to the Russians before the Cold War began in earnest. The centrifugal compressor feeds air in to the nine combustion chambers, generating about 6,000 pounds of thrust.
The process of removing the tail is much more involved than I would have thought, and I really feel for the maintainers that had to do this outdoors in less than favorable weather conditions.
Thanks to @rv4incma and @rv3.flyr for their help. And thanks to @a_afsha for the cool picture of the Mig-17 at night with the engine all lit up!
