SPAD began development of a single-seat tractor biplane in early 1915, known as the S.V. It was powered by the newly developed 8Aa 8-cylinder Vee engine from Hispano-Suiza which supplied 150 hp (112 kW) and enabled the aircraft to reach 119 mph (192 km/h). The French air force were sufficiently impressed with the performance of the prototype when it first flew in April 1916 that they placed an order for 268 aircraft. The production model was designated the S.VII. Later aircraft were fitted with the 180 hp (134 kW) 8Ac engine. The engines' only flaws were that they were prone to overheating.
