The prototype Romano R-80.01 was a private venture design by Chantiers aéronavals Étienne Romano for a two-seat aerobatic biplane to use as a demonstrator. Tested in 1935 with a 179 kW (240 hp) Lorraine 7Me radial engine, it was later fitted with a 209 kW (280 hp) Salmson 9Aba radial and re-designated as the R-80.2. The R.80.2 was a biplane with a fixed tailwheel landing gear and with the change of scope to a tandem two-seat dual-control aerobatic trainer, it was re-designated the R.82.01. Two more prototypes were built, which were sold to private owners. Romano became part of the nationalised SNCASE in 1937 and the French Air Force ordered the R-82 into production, with 147 aircraft being delivered. The French Navy also ordered 30 R-82s, and all Air Force and Navy aircraft had been delivered by May 1940.
In 1938 two aircraft were ferried to Spain and used by the Spanish Republican government in the fight against the Nationalist faction.[1]
Ricco, Philippe (May–June 2016). "Romano 82: Le voltigeur de l'Armée de l'Air: Première partie". Avions (in French). No. 211. pp. 66–86.
Ricco, Philippe (July–August 2016). "Romano 82: Un voltigeur dans la guerre d'Espagne". Avions (in French). No. 212. pp. 86–97.
Ricco, Philippe (September–October 2016). "Romano 82: Un voltigeur dans la Marine: Troisième partie". Avions (in French). No. 213. pp. 80–98.
Ricco, Philippe (November–December 2016). "Romano 82: Le voltigeur de l'Armée de l'Air: Quatrième partie". Avions (in French). No. 214. pp. 80–94.
Ricco, Philippe (January–February 2017). "Romano 82: Le voltigeur de l'Armée de l'Air: Cinqième et dernière partie". Avions (in French). No. 215. pp. 86–95.
Taylor, Michael J. H. (1989). Jane's Encyclopedia of Aviation. London: Studio Editions.
The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Aircraft (Part Work 1982-1985). Orbis Publishing.