Morane-Saulnier M.S.138

The Morane-Saulnier M.S.138 was a two-seat parasol primary trainer, used by the French Air Force in the first half of the 1930s. The M.S.138 was descended from a long line of Morane-Saulnier parasol wing trainers, starting with the M.S.35, first developed in 1915. This aircraft had straight wings and diagonal wing tips. It was followed by the M.S.50, which had an improved wing profile with rounded tips, and then by the M.S.53, which had swept back wings.

The M.S.138 made its maiden flight in 1927. It had a swept back parasol wing, a new tail and a rounded fuselage profile. The wing was wire braced, a rather old fashioned feature for 1927. It was powered by an 80hp Rhône 9C engine.

A total of 178 were built. Most were used by the Aeronautique Militaire, and then inherited by the Armée de l'Air, where they were used until 1935. The M.S.138 was also used by the Aéronavale, some were sold to Greece and others to civil air clubs.

Three variants were produced. The M.S.137 and M.S.139 had different engines, while the M.S.191 had a reduced wing span.

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How to cite this article: Rickard, J (15 February 2012), Morane-Saulnier M.S.138 , http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/weapons_morane_saulnier_MS138.html

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