MORANE SAULNIER MS.406 FRANCE 1940

The Morane-Saulnier MS.406 is a French metal structure single-engine fighter in a low wing configuration with a classic tail. The flight of the prototype took place on July 8, 1935, and the entry into serial production took place in 1938. The combination of a good engine (Hispano Suiza 12Y31 with 860KM) and good aerodynamics resulted in a successful fighter capable of developing over 450 km / h. The serial version was called MS-406C1. The machine turned out to be a product sought after on international markets: interest in it was expressed, among others, by Poland, Lithuania, China, Turkey and Yugoslavia. After France's capitulation in June 1940, Germany sold the MS406 to Croatia (48 machines) and Finland (37 aircraft). The MS406 fought primarily in the French campaign, and later served in the Vichy air force and the Free French forces. Technical data: length: 8.17 m, wingspan: 10.62 m, height: 2.71 m, maximum speed: 486 km / h, speed of climb: 13 m / s, maximum range: 1000 km, armament: fixed - 2 machine guns MAC1934 cal .7.5mm and one 20mm Hispano-Suiza HS.404 cannon.