FSX French Navy SNB-5 Esc. 55S Repaint

Explore a special French Navy SNB-5 Escadrille 55S repaint designed for the freeware Beechcraft D18S model by Milton Shupe and Scott Thomas, subsequently adapted for Microsoft Flight Simulator X by David Carroll (B18DC05.ZIP). Created by Michel Gerard, this livery brings to life the unmistakable look of a French Navy multi-engine trainer stationed in Agadir, Morocco during the early 1950s. It pays homage to the era when the French Navy put several SNB-5 variants into service for pilot instruction, reflecting historically accurate markings and overall metallic tones.

Historical and Technical Background

The Beechcraft D18S (sometimes referred to as the “Twin Beech”) is a robust twin-engined aircraft known for its stability and versatility. In the decades following its introduction, multiple operators—including the French Navy—employed it under varied designations such as JRB-4 and SNB-5. Escadrille 55S specialized in multi-engine pilot training, whereas sister units like Escadrille 56S handled other roles (e.g., navigator or radio operator training).

During the mid-20th century, the French armed forces received numerous Beechcraft airframes. While the Air Force primarily used UC-45Bs and Expeditor variants, the Navy concentrated on JRB-4s and SNB-5s. Many of these underwent transitions into different duties, with some remaining in service until the early 1970s. Notably, the French Navy’s SNB-5 fleet was usually finished in a subdued silver coating, distinct from the more polished finishes commonly seen elsewhere.

Notable Livery Characteristics

• Authentic Markings: This repaint depicts the period markings used by Escadrille 55S, complete with silver-hued fuselage and finely detailed French Navy roundels.
• Multiple Variants: Different operators had unique antenna setups, various DF loop shapes, and other minor differences. This repaint replicates the specific antenna configuration of the early 55S SNB-5.
• Visual Accuracy: Propeller spinners are included, closely matching photographic references. Additionally, the tailwheel is shown locked in the down position, as often observed in French service.

Installation Procedure

Before applying this repaint, be sure to download and install the freeware base Beechcraft D18S created by Milton Shupe and Scott Thomas, as modified for Microsoft Flight Simulator X by David Carroll (file name: B18DC05.ZIP). That package should be available in the Fly Away Simulation file library.

Once the base model is installed, follow these steps:

1. Extract the “Texture.France_55S15” folder from this archive into your FSX\SimObjects\Airplanes\D18SX_DC directory. Make sure to enable “Use folder names” while unzipping.
2. Open the aircraft.cfg file in the same D18SX_DC folder and append the following entry, substituting [fltsim.XX] with the next sequential number for your installation:

[fltsim.XX]
title=Beech SNB-5 French Navy 134701
sim=D18S
model=xdc
panel=xblk
sound=
texture=France_55S15
kb_checklists=Beech18_check
kb_reference=Beech18_ref
atc_id=NAVY 701
ui_manufacturer="Beechcraft"
ui_type="SNB-5"
ui_variation="French Navy 55S.15"
ui_typerole="Twin Engine Prop"
ui_createdby="Shupe-Carroll"
description="SNB-5 French Navy Escadrille 55S early fifties. D18 VC model by Milton Shupe modified with permission."

After these steps, look for “Beechcraft SNB-5 French Navy 55S.15” in the aircraft selection menu within Microsoft Flight Simulator X. The repaint should display correctly, reflecting the realistic silver finish of French Navy trainers from the early 1950s.

Operational Notes and Points of Interest

• Diverse Service History: In the French Air Force, parallel versions (such as UC-45B) were integrated into transport groups and used extensively. Many underwent modifications or were drawn from foreign sources like the Royal Canadian Air Force, adding to their eclectic lineage.
• Paint Finishes: The French Navy typically maintained an all-silver livery, rarely altering the top fuselage. In contrast, some Air Force airframes eventually had white tops, highlighting the variety that existed among these Beech Twins.
• Retirements: Although the Navy phased out its SNB-5s by the early 1970s, the aircraft had remained a staple of multi-engine training for nearly two decades prior to retirement.

Please note that if any unforeseen issues arise—such as hardware malfunctions, erratic behavior in your simulator, or other unpredictable events—no responsibility can be accepted by the developer or repaint creator. Your feedback on this repaint is always welcome, and if you have specific livery requests, feel free to share them with the community. This repaint is offered as freeware by Michel Gerard, with the underlying model by Milton Shupe and Scott Thomas, adapted by David Carroll.