The Caudron C.710 series, culminating in the C.714 Cyclone, was a French lightweight fighter aircraft developed in the late 1930s as a low-cost, rapid-production solution to bolster France’s air defences.
Constructed primarily of wood, the C.714 entered limited production in 1939–1940, but was quickly outclassed by more modern designs and hampered by an underpowered engine.
Approximately 90 units of the C.714 were produced.
The type saw its most notable combat use during the Battle of France, where it was flown by Polish pilots of Groupe de Chasse I/145.
Despite their determination, the C.714’s poor climb rate, limited fire-power, and fragile airframe resulted in significant losses.
Consequently, the aircraft was withdrawn from frontline duties shortly after its combat debut.
A small number of C.714s were delivered to Finland, though they saw minimal action before being withdrawn from service in 1941.
Though a bold initiative to produce a domestic fighter under wartime pressure, the C.710 series ultimately proved inadequate for sustained combat operations.
Its brief service life reflects the challenges of balancing urgency with capability in aircraft development.
