Based on the operational experience of the SIPA S.10 and SIPA S.11 (and S.111) all-wooden aircraft, SIPA made the decision to transition back to constructing all-metal aircraft.
The newly developed SIPA S.12, an enhanced and refined version of the previous S.11, was introduced as the result of this shift.
Due to the increased weight of the metallic fuselage, a more powerful engine, the single SNECMA 12S-02 engine capable of delivering up to 600 hp, was installed.
The armed variant of the S.12, known as the S.12A, retained the same armament as the S.11A, which included two MAC 34/39 machine guns in the nose and underwing pylons capable of carrying up to 100 kg (220 lb) of bombs or various MATRA T10 unguided rockets.
Production of the S.12 began in 1951, with a total of 52 aircraft produced, including both the S.12 and S.12A variants.
In 1954, a lighter version called the S.121 was introduced, featuring a lighter design and armament.
A total of 58 S.121 aircraft were built, bringing the overall production of SIPA S.12 variants to 110.
During the Algerian War, the Armée de l’Air (French Air Force) utilised some SIPA S.12, S.12A, and S.121 aircraft in various roles such as reconnaissance, fire spotting, and close air support.
These aircraft also served as armed trainers in the flying schools of the Armée de l’Air until the early 1960s, when they were replaced in the trainer role by the jet-powered Fouga Magister.
However, as of 1968, the Centré d’Essais en Vol (Flight Test Centre, – French Air Force’s experimental unit) still had an active S.121 aircraft, which was utilised as a trainer or fast liaison aircraft.
SIPA S.10
French production version of Arado Ar 396, 28 produced.
SIPA S.11
Modified version of S.10, powered by Renault 12S (French built Argus As 411), 50 built for the French Air Force.
SIPA S.12
All-metal version of S.11, 52 built for the French Air Force.
SIPA S.121
Modified version of S.12, 58 built for the French Air Force.
