The Loire 46 fighter was developed in the early 1930s and demonstrated good characteristics for that period. Only a small number were produced and they had been relegated to training work by the beginning of World War Two.

This fighter evolved from two earlier Loire designs that had been entered in the French fighter competition of the early 1930s.

Although neither won the competition the design was developed into the Loire 46 and sixty were ordered as a backup to the winner.

The first Loire 46 flew on 1 September 1934 and they entered service with the French Air Force in 1936.

In December 1938 they were replaced in front line service and relegated to gunnery training.

A handful had also been sold to Spain where they flew for a few months at the beginning of the Civil War.

This model represents Number 19 flying at the Cazaux Gunnery School in 1939.

Azur 1/72 kit. Completed in November 2003.