The C1 (monoplace de chasse) requirement first issued by the Service Technique Aeronautique in 1930 – when it was finally conceded that the Jockey programme had failed – and upgraded on 26 January 1931, resulted in no fewer than 10 designs being awarded prototype contracts. These included two Morane-Saulnier proposals.
The first, the M.S.275, retained the classic parasol monoplane configuration of preceding Morane-Saulnier fighters and was flown in 1934. A version of the MS.225 with a modified aerofoil and empennage, powered by a Gnome-Rhone 9Krse nine-cylinder radial rated at 600hp at 4000m and armed with two synchronised 7.7mm guns, the M.S.275 proved exceptionally manoeuvrable and offered a very respectable performance. It found little favour, however, owing to its dated concept, development being discontinued, together with that of the more innovative M.S.325, in favour of the more promising M.S.405 then in preliminary design.
Max take-off weight: 1724 kg / 3801 lb
Empty weight: 1361 kg / 3001 lb
Wingspan: 10.56 m / 34 ft 8 in
Length: 7.24 m / 23 ft 9 in
Height: 3.29 m / 10 ft 10 in
Wing area: 17.20 sq.m / 185.14 sq ft
Max. speed: 363 km/h / 226 mph
Ceiling: 10700 m / 35100 ft
Range: 1150 km / 715 miles
All Aero 