The Fouga CM-170 Magister is a versitile French-built military trainer and light attack aircraft which has continued in service with many nations' Air Forces from the 1950s through the beginning of the 21st century. The aircraft's excellent handling qualities, world-wide usage by many smaller countries and exotic looks make the Fouga an ideal candidate for production work. Please note: This aircraft has been de-militarized, and all weapons systems have been removed or deactivated.

The Fouga Photo Gallery

Fouga CM-170 Background Information

The CM-170 was developed by designers R. Costello and P. Maubassin (thus the "CM" designation) of the Etablissments Fouga et Cie, or simply "Fouga" in response to a French Air Force specification, and holds the distinction of being the first primary jet trainer to enter production. The first prototype flew in July, 1952, and the first production aircraft took wing in February, 1956. Later, Fouga was bought out by Potez and then by Aerospatiale. The aircraft could also be used as a light ground-attack aircraft, typically armed with two 7.5mm or 7.62mm machine guns in the nose, under-wing rocket pods and bombs, and even Nord air-to-surface missles. The aircraft was built in France as well as in Germany, Finland and Israel under license. A total of 916 Magisters were built.

Besides France, the aircraft has served the countries of Algeria, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Brazil, Cameroon,  Cambodia, Congo, Finland, Germany, Guatemala, Ireland, Israel, Lebanon, Ireland, Rwanda, Salvador and Senegal. In one of the aircraft's most noted combat experiences, 60 of Israel's 88 aircraft were converted from trainers to ground-attack roles and were utilized quite successfully in the 1967 Six Day War. The Magister has also served with the national aerobatic teams of Belgium (the Red Devils), France (Patrouille de France), Germany and Ireland. While most nations have now replaced the Magister with more modern trainers, a small number continue to operate in Belgium.