It first flew in 1935, and after satisfactory flight trials, it began equipping French ships a year later.

The Spanish Navy also expressed interest, which resulted in Spain acquiring a manufacturing license.

[citation needed] The Potez 452 was active as a reconnaissance aircraft during the early months of World War II.

During that time there was no significant naval action in the Mediterranean where most of the French Navy was operating.

After the French capitulation to Germany in June 1940, these aircraft continued to serve with their ships and as part of Vichy France's military, briefly engaged their former ally Great Britain.