- Yes
- No
Hello everyone, and welcome to this new suggestion.
Today, I am presenting a new post-war French aircraft: the Morane-Saulnier MS.733 Alcyon.
In the aftermath of the Second World War, the French armed forces were undergoing a major reconstruction effort. One of their priorities was to rapidly rebuild their fleet of operational aircraft, preferably using designs developed and produced domestically. In 1948, the French military high command issued specifications for a new single-engine, multi-seat training aircraft intended to meet a joint requirement from both the French Air Force and Navy.
Morane-Saulnier, one of France’s historic aircraft manufacturers and a company already well known for its pre-war designs, responded to the requirement with an initial prototype in 1949. The aircraft featured a low-wing configuration and fixed landing gear.
However, this initial design did not fully meet the requirements established by the French government, leading Morane-Saulnier to make several modifications. The final version of the aircraft emerged in 1951 and was designated MS.733, receiving the nickname “Alcyon”.
The design was accepted by the French military, and nearly 200 aircraft were ordered. Deliveries began in 1952, with the Alcyon entering service as a training aircraft for future French military pilots.
Although the MS.733 was initially unarmed, the French Air Force soon became interested in giving the aircraft a secondary combat capability. This served two purposes: first, to provide trainee crews with the opportunity to practice using machine guns and rockets; and second, to allow the Alcyon to perform light ground-attack missions when required.
This capability proved particularly useful during the Algerian War. The Alcyons were deployed in a light attack and support role, carrying out missions in support of French ground forces while continuing to fulfill their training duties.
Following the end of the conflict, the surviving Alcyons were returned to mainland France. They continued to serve as training aircraft for several more years, preparing pilots for more advanced aircraft before eventually being replaced by the Fouga Magister in the 70s.
Characteristics
Length : 9.50 m
Width : 11.29 m
Height : 3.46 m
Mass :
- Empty : 1,260 kg
- Full : 1,670 kg
The aircraft is powered by a 240 hp Potez 6D-02A 6-cylinder engine, allowing it to reach a top speed of 260 km/h and a service ceiling of 4,800 m. Its range at a cruising speed of 230 km/h is 920 km. It is worth noting that the aircraft is underpowered, making it impossible to take off with a full load under certain conditions.
It is a three-seat aircraft, accommodating a pilot, a co-pilot, and an observer.
Weapons
Its armament is relatively basic, as the aircraft was not originally designed to carry weapons.
- 2 x 7.5mm MAC 34 machine guns (one mounted in each wing)
- 4 x T10 rockets (two under each wing)
- 2 x anti-personnel bombs
In-game, this aircraft would be an interesting addition to the French tree, providing a trainer capable of performing ground-attack missions at a low Battle Rating, given its armament and very limited flight performance.
