The SPAD XIII C.1 was an improved development of the earlier and successful SPAD VII. The SPAD XIII first flew in April 1917. However the bulk of the deliveries did not occur until 1918.

The SPD XIII was a very strong aircraft with an excellent gun platform. Although fast, the SPAD XIII was tricky to handle at low speeds. It was equipped with an supercharged Hispano-Suiza 8 engine. Over 8,472 SPAD XIIIs were produced during WWI by several companies in France and equipped over eighty escadrilles. Nearly every French ace flew the SPAD XIII with great success.

The Scale-Master decals included in this kit give a choice of several French aces and Italy's leading ace, Cpt. Baracca. Easily recognized are France's Guyenemer, Nungessor, and Fonck. Amongst thte lesser known aces are Turenne, Coiffard, and Erlich. Coiffard was France's leading balloon buster with a total of 28 balloons and six airplanes.