Morane-Saulnier Type N, from Special Hobby, in 1:32th scale

The Morane-Saulnier Type N, was a pioneering aircraft in aviation history. Designed and produced during World War I, it served as a stepping stone in the development of fighter aircraft. While the Type N’s operational tenure was brief, its innovative design and unique features made it stand out during its era, particularly when it was adapted for service with the Royal Flying Corps (RFC).

One of the most striking features of the Type N was its lack of ailerons, a standard control surface in most aircraft. Instead, the Type N employed wing-warping for roll control—a design choice that was becoming obsolete even during its time. Another unique characteristic was its deflector plates mounted on the propeller blades. These metal deflectors allowed the pilot to fire through the propeller arc without damaging the blades, a temporary solution until synchronization gears became widely available. These features, along with its sleek, monoplane design, contributed to its reputation as a challenging but rewarding aircraft to fly and model.

My recent hobby project, a 1:32 scale model of the Morane-Saulnier Type N in RFC service, was both an intricate and enjoyable endeavor. The kit, produced by Special Hobby, provided an excellent foundation for replicating this historic aircraft. One standout aspect of the kit is its inclusion of photo-etched (PE) parts, particularly the Metal Turnbuckles Type C, which greatly enhanced the rigging process. Rigging a monoplane like the Type N is no small feat, and these PE additions proved invaluable for accuracy and detail.

The kit also includes several resin components, offering a higher level of detail in specific areas. Notable resin parts include the engine, which, while detailed, has visible mold seam lines that detract slightly from its realism. This is mitigated by the fact that the engine is largely obscured by the structure covering the propeller, designed to reduce drag. Other resin components, such as pulleys, the propeller, and the deflector plates, contribute to the model’s overall authenticity and enhance its visual appeal.

The construction process took approximately two months to complete. I relied heavily on reference materials, including Harry Woodman’s article, “The Mother of Invention – The Morane-Saulnier ‘Bullets’ and Their Armament,” and various dedicated aviation history websites. These sources were instrumental in capturing the authentic details of the Type N.

Despite the overall quality of the kit, there were a few challenges during assembly. The alignment of the wings required careful attention, as any slight misstep could compromise the accuracy of the finished model. Additionally, the PE camshaft axis for the engine presented a fit issue—its diameter was slightly larger than the engine itself, necessitating some adjustments. Beyond these hurdles, the kit met my expectations, delivering a rewarding modeling experience.

This project not only deepened my appreciation for the Morane-Saulnier Type N but also highlighted the evolution of aviation technology during a pivotal era in history. The completed model now holds a special place in my collection, serving as a tribute to both the ingenuity of early aircraft designers and the dedication of hobbyists who strive to bring their stories to life in miniature form.

This was the last project that I build in 2024. Enjoy the pictures of the full build, bellow: