| SO.8000 Narval | |
|---|---|
| |
| The second prototype of the SO.8000 Narval, early 1949 | |
| Role | Carrier-based strike fighter |
| National origin | France |
| Manufacturer | SNCASO |
| First flight | 1 April 1949 |
| Status | Cancelled |
| Number built | 2 prototypes |
The SNCASO SO.8000 Narval (English: Narwhal) was a French carrier-based strike fighter designed by Sud-Ouest in the late 1940s. The French Navy (Marine nationale) ordered two prototypes in 1946 and they made their maiden flights three years later. They were plagued by aerodynamic problems and unreliability issues with their piston engines. The aircraft proved to be slow, lacking in lateral and longitudinal stability and unsuitable for carrier operations; it did not enter production.