The Morane Saulnier 406 was selected to become France’s front line fighter in 1935 but, by the time it entered service in 1939, it was completely outclassed by its German opponents.
Design of this aeroplane began in 1934 to meet the requirement for a new French fighter.

The design was selected and the first aeroplane flew in August 1935.

Development continued slowly until March 1938 when 1000 MS.406s were ordered.

The first production aircraft flew on 29 January 1939 but only 572 had been delivered by the outbreak of war.

During the German invasion the French quickly learned that the MS.406 was completely outclassed by Germany’s Bf109E fighter and, by the time France surrendered in June 1940, 1081 MS.406s had been delivered but more than 400 had been shot down and claimed only 175 victories.

This model represents MS.406 production number 101 during the Battle of France..

Smer 1/72 kit completed by Leigh Edmonds in June 1999.