Dassault Aviation, a renowned French manufacturer of military aircraft and business jets, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1929 by Marcel Bloch as Societe des Avions Marcel Bloch. The company underwent several name changes, becoming Avions Marcel Dassault on January 20, 1947. While widely recognized for producing significant French fighter jets like the Dassault Rafale, the company also boasts a robust private jet manufacturing division rooted in its legacy of civilian aircraft production.
In 1971, Dassault acquired Breguet Aviation, forming Avions Marcel Dassault- Breguet Aviation. It was renamed Dassault Aviation in 1990 and became a subsidiary of the Dassault Group. Under the leadership of Eric Trappier since January 9, 2013, the company has overseen multiple private jet development programs.
The growth trajectory of Dassault Aviation began with pioneering different aircraft designs during the early days of aviation. Marcel Bloch played a pivotal role in this development with his innovative designs. By 1935, Bloch had partnered with Henry Potez to acquire Societe Aerienne Bordelaise (SAB), strengthening their position within the planemaking market. However, nationalization by the French government in 1936 and subsequent disruptions caused by Nazi occupation affected operations significantly.