From Borel to SGCIM: The Genesis of CAn2
After the end of the First World War, Gabriel Borel’s company, Établissements Borel, was transformed into the Société Générale des Constructions Industrielles et Mécaniques (SGCIM or SCIM). In 1923, this new company began developing a fighter classified as CAn2 (two-seat night fighter), utilizing Borel’s earlier work. Although some sources attribute the aircraft to Borel, he was not directly involved in its development.
Design and First Flight
The CAn2 made its inaugural flight only in 1925. It was a two-seat sesquiplane of mixed construction, equipped with a 300 hp Hispano-Suiza engine.
Armament and Military Disinterest
While armament was not installed on the prototype, planned weaponry included one forward 7.7mm Vickers machine gun and two 7.7mm Lewis machine guns on a turret in the rear cockpit. However, the fighter did not interest the military, and the company redirected its focus to other manufacturing endeavors.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | CAn2 |
| Wingspan (upper wing), m | 13.70 |
| Wingspan (lower wing), m | 8.60 |
| Wing area, m2 | 34.00 |
| Empty weight, kg | 900 |
| Normal takeoff weight, kg | 1550 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Hispano-Suiza |
| Power, hp | 1 x 300 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 225 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 195 |
| Service ceiling, m | 7700 |
| Crew, crew members | 2 |
| Armament | (planned) one forward 7.7-mm Vickers machine gun, two 7.7-mm Lewis machine guns on a turret |
Image gallery of the CAn2 (Two-seat Night Fighter)
