The Nieuport 17 was a nimble fighter, first released in March 1916. Its excellent maneuverability made a big impact. It soon equipped all of the French fighter squadrons, served as a top British fighter for a year, and was even copied by the Germans! The “sesquiplane” design (a “half” lower wing) gave excellent climb and visibility, but was a weakness in stressful maneuvers. A favorite of aces, the Nieuport 17 was produced in France, Italy, and Russia and used by all Allied armies until late 1917.

Nieuport 17 (Thaw/Lufbery)
American volunteers and French officers fought side–by–side in the “Escadrille Lafayette.” Cards for two of them, Raoul Lufbery and Bill Thaw, are featured in this model.