HSG51319 Morane Saulnier MS.406

Morane Saulnier MS.406

The Morane Saulnier M.S.406C-1 was the first modern fighter produced in France. In 1934, the French Military requested a modern aircraft to replace the outmoded fighters being used with WWI characteristics. Morane-Saulnier produced the M.S.406, with a welded steel fuselage, covered with light metal at the front, and fabric at the rear. It was a low-wing monoplane, with inward retracting landing gear and enclosed cockpit. The wings were duralumin and plywood, with fabric covered control surfaces.

Modified and improved with a Hispano-Suiza 860 hp engine and 7.7 mm machine-guns, the M.S.406C-1 flew in 1938 and was produced during the same time frame as the German Messerschmitt Bf-109. It was obvious that the Bf-109 outclassed the M.S.406C-1 in performance. However, the French had numerous expert pilots who were successful in downing the German aircraft at the outbreak of the war. The M.S.406 was also exported to Finland and Switzerland, remaining in service until the 1950’s.

drie uitvoeringen mogelijk:

1. French Air Force GCII/3, 3/4 Escadrille. met code L5-79 onder de vleugels.
2. French Air Force GCIII/7, 6 Escadrille met code N5-93 onder de vleugels.
3. Vichy Air Force, 2nd Escadrille,Wit nummer 2, code L7-51 onder de vleugels.