Morene Saulnier MS 406 1:72 SMER 0849

Plastic model airplane to assemble: Morane Saulnier MS 406 1:72 Smer 0849

The Morane-Saulnier M.S.406 plastic model kit in 1:72 scale from Smer is an excellent choice for aviation and modeling enthusiasts. This set allows you to build a miniature of one of the most important French fighters from World War II. 

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:72
• Number of parts: 43
• Model length: 11 cm
• Wingspan: 14.7 cm
• Markings: 2

Morane-Saulnier M.S.406 – historical background:

The Morane-Saulnier M.S.406 was a French fighter that played a key role in the early stages of World War II. Developed and produced by Morane-Saulnier since 1938, it became the most widely produced fighter in France during this period. It was one of two French aircraft that exceeded the production of 1000 units, alongside the Potez 630.

This aircraft was created in response to the requirements of the French air forces from 1934, which were looking for a modern fighter. The prototype designated MS.405 was the first low-wing aircraft from Morane-Saulnier, equipped with a closed cockpit and retractable landing gear. The introduction of the M.S.406 into service in 1939 marked the acceptance of the first modern fighter by the French air forces.

Despite its solid construction and high maneuverability, the M.S.406 was considered under-armed and underpowered compared to its contemporary counterparts, such as the German Messerschmitt Bf 109E. During the Battle of France, the M.S.406 could not match the performance of German fighters, resulting in significant losses.

During the so-called "Phoney War" from September 1939 to May 1940, the M.S.406 managed to prove itself in combat. During the invasion of France in May 1940, about 400 Morane aircraft were lost. Of this number, around 150 were shot down by enemy fighters and ground fire, and another 100 were destroyed on the ground during air raids. The rest were deliberately destroyed by French armed forces to prevent capture by the Germans. French squadrons of the M.S.406 achieved 191 confirmed victories and 83 probable ones.

After the capitulation of France, the production of the M.S.406 continued under German supervision. This aircraft was also exported to various countries, including Poland, although none of the ordered 160 units reached Polish territory before the outbreak of the war. Notably, it served in the Finnish and Swiss air forces, which developed their own versions of this fighter, such as the Finnish Mörkö-Morane.

By the end of the war, most M.S.406 and its derivatives were retired from service as they became obsolete in the face of rapid advancements in aviation technology. Ultimately, the last units were used as advanced training aircraft in Finland before being scrapped in 1952.

Assembly and painting kit. Does not include paints or glue. To assemble, separately sold modeling tools are needed (including cutters, files, tweezers), paints, brushes, and plastic model glue (e.g., Tamiya Extra Thin Cement). The photo shows a professionally assembled and painted model.