Bernard 74
Origins and Development
In 1930, engineers at Societe des Avions Bernard began developing the Bernard 70, a light fighter that was designed but never built. However, most of its structural solutions formed the basis for the Bernard 72 racing monoplane, built with a wooden load-bearing skin for the 1930 Michelin Cup competition. The Bernard 72 was withdrawn due to lubrication issues with its Gnome-Rhone Titan radial engine.
Later, a more powerful Titan-Major engine was installed, leading to the Bernard 73 modification. The basic design of the Bernard 70 family was retained for the single-seat light fighter, Bernard 74.
The Bernard 74 Prototypes
The first of two prototypes, Bernard 74.01, took to the air in February 1931, powered by a single Gnome-Rhone 7Kbs radial engine. The second prototype, Bernard 74.02, made its first flight in October of the same year, equipped with a 360 hp Gnome-Rhone 7Kd radial engine. This machine achieved a maximum speed of 350 km/h at an altitude of 4000 m and had a normal take-off weight of 1240 kg.
Later Developments and Fate
Had this fighter gone into series production, the Bernard 74.02 prototype would have been chosen as the production model; however, no orders were ever received. The Bernard 74.01 was re-equipped with a 500 hp Gnome-Rhone 9Kbrs Mistral radial engine, re-designated Bernard 75, and presented at the Paris Exhibition in 1932. It finished its career as an acrobatic training aircraft for a private company.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Bernard 74 |
| Wingspan, m | 9. 20 |
| Length, m | 6. 72 |
| Height, m | 2.50 |
| Wing area, m2 | 13. 45 |
| Empty weight | 825 |
| Normal takeoff weight | 1 106 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Gnome & Rhone 7Kbs |
| Power, hp | 1 x 280 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 310 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 280 |
| Service ceiling, m | 8000 |
| Crew | 1 |
| Armament | only planned |
Image and diagram gallery of the Bernard 74
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ArchivoAéreo Editorial Team
A group of aviation researchers and enthusiasts dedicated to documenting and preserving global aeronautical history. All articles are reviewed to ensure historical accuracy.
Sources & Accuracy
The information presented in this technical sheet has been compiled from declassified flight manuals, historical archives, and specialized literature. While we strive for maximum accuracy, some performance data may vary depending on the specific variant or operational conditions.