FSX French Navy SNB-5 Esc. 55S

This repaint showcases the French Navy SNB-5 aircraft operated by Escadrille 55S in the late 1960s. It is designed for the freeware Beechcraft D18S by Milton Shupe and Scott Thomas, adapted for Microsoft Flight Simulator X by David Caroll (file name: B18DC05.ZIP). Michel Gerard created this custom paint scheme to depict an SNB-5 that originally joined the French Navy inventory on 18 June 1953, reflecting the bold national markings and unit serial numbers of that era. The unit in question was stationed at Aspretto Air Base in Corsica, emphasizing multi-engine proficiency training for naval pilots using Beech SNB-5 variants. This add-on depends on the standalone base model available here in the Fly Away Simulation library.

Origins and Developer Credits

Original Model and Adaptation: The base Beechcraft D18S was expertly built by Milton Shupe and Scott Thomas. Later, David Caroll tailored the package for modern simulators, providing a faithful representation of the aircraft’s cockpit layout and flight dynamics.

Repaint Authors: This particular French Navy scheme is by Michel Gerard, who drew upon archival references to accurately render details such as the fuselage numbering, the enlarged upper wing roundels, and other historical insignia.

Historical Background

During the post-war period, the French Navy acquired numerous Beechcraft models, including the SNB-5 variant, primarily sourced from ex-US Navy inventory. Within the naval framework, these aircraft were used for training multi-engine pilots under Escadrille 55S. Meanwhile, the sister squadron (Escadrille 56S) employed JRB-4 derivatives for other specialized training roles such as navigation and communications. By the early 1970s, these Beech SNB-5s were gradually phased out, yet they remain significant in French naval aviation history.

The French Air Force also integrated a substantial fleet of Beech twins, beginning with the UC-45B under the Free French Air Force in September 1944. Over time, more aircraft arrived under the Mutual Defense Assistance Program (MDAP), including ex-RCAF Expeditors. They were seen in service until around 1972, often retaining a polished metal or silver finish, sometimes with a white top on the fuselage in later years. In contrast, French Navy aircraft frequently sported overall silver with little gloss.

Distinctive Visual Elements

This livery depicts a significant era in naval markings, characterized by large roundels on the wing surfaces and prominent tail markings. Some SNB-5s wore a red border around the emergency exit on the starboard side; Michel Gerard has included an alternative texture set for those who wish to replicate that detail. Organizing your folders properly will ensure you can switch between the standard or alternate fuselage textures seamlessly.

Installation Steps

1. Extract all files with the “Texture.France_55S15” folder hierarchy intact into your “FSX\SimObjects\Airplanes\D18SX_DC” directory. Ensure you select the option to maintain folder structure, so each texture file is placed correctly.
2. If you wish to activate the red surround on the emergency exit window, rename the fusemain_x_t_ALT.dds and fusemain_x_t_spec_ALT.dds to fusemain_x_t.dds and fusemain_x_t_spec.dds (after making backups, of course).
3. Next, open your aircraft.cfg file in the same folder, and paste the following block. Adjust “[fltsim.XX]” to the next available sequence number:

[fltsim.XX]
title=Beech SNB-5 French Navy 134709
sim=D18S
model=xdc
panel=xblk
sound=
texture=France_709
kb_checklists=Beech18_check
kb_reference=Beech18_ref
atc_id=NAVY 709
ui_manufacturer="Beechcraft"
ui_type="SNB-5"
ui_variation="French Navy 709"
ui_typerole="Twin Engine Prop"
ui_createdby="Shupe-Carroll"
description="SNB-5 French Navy Escadrille 55S late sixties. D18 VC model by Milton Shupe modified with permission."

This will list the aircraft entry as “Beechcraft SNB-5 French Navy 709” in your simulator’s aircraft selection menu.

Technical Design Notes

The SNB-5 was a navy-adapted variant of the Beechcraft ‘Twin Beech’ family. The primary modifications for maritime use included reliable radio navigation systems, multi-engine pilot trainer configurations, and a fixed tailwheel to suit naval operations. Propeller spinners were typical on most French Navy models, and antenna setups varied substantially from one aircraft to another, often influenced by mission-specific electronic requirements.

Most naval airframes received silver finishes devoid of the high-gloss polish found on many French Air Force machines. Though photographic evidence indicates minimal color variation, future research may reveal instances of different paint features or supplemental markings, such as partial white sections on the upper fuselage.

Disclaimer and Acknowledgements

Michel Gerard bears no responsibility for hardware issues, system conflicts, or unfortunate pet-related mishaps arising from installation or use of these textures. User feedback is encouraged, yet practical experience indicates fewer simmers reach out unless they seek a particular livery. Nevertheless, any constructive commentary or suggestions remain welcome.

Flight simulation enthusiasts can explore this era with confidence using these revised textures, honoring the French Navy’s heritage. This livery shines a light on a lesser-known corner of historical naval aviation, all thanks to the dedicated efforts of Milton Shupe, Scott Thomas, David Caroll, and Michel Gerard.