The first Super Frelon, built at La Courneuve but first flown on 7 December 1962 from Marignane and I think the photo was taken there. In July 1963 this prototype set three speed records for helicopters, fitted with a large aerodynamic fairing under the tailboom. In 1974 it was retired to the Musée de l'Air at Le Bourget.

This three-engined heavy transport helicopter held the distinction of being the most powerful helicopter to be built in Europe as well as being the world's fastest. The Super Frelon (Super Hornet) was a more powerful development of the original SE.3200 Frelon, which had failed to enter production. In December 1962, this Super Frelon prototype made the type's maiden flight and around 110 of both civilian and military versions were produced. The type was in service in France with the Aéronavale until April 2010.