This was originally the third SO.6020, intended as a photo reconnaissance aircraft, but it was completed as the experimental mixed-power SO.6025 with its Nene jet engine augmented by a SEPR 25 booster rocket in the rear of the underbelly fairing. It first flew on 28 December 1949 but the rocket motor, running on highly toxic fluorine and nitric acid, was not ignited in flight until June 1952. The SO.6025 became the first European aircraft to break the sound barrier in horizontal flight in December 1953, piloted by André Turcat. It was later dumped at the Suippes shooting range, but its remains are now on display at Ailes Anciennes Toulouse. Photo from: Sud-Ouest

This photo was added on 20 January 2024, and has since been viewed 261 times.