It was to have three Lorraine 9N Algol engines and an all-metal structure, capable of reconnaissance, observation, policing and bombing as well as medical evacuations or general transport.
High aspect ratio ailerons occupied the whole outer panel trailing edge and camber changing flaps filled those of the centre section.
[2] The R.16 was powered by three 220 kW (300 hp) Lorraine 9N Algol nine cylinder radial engines enclosed by long chord NACA-type cowlings.
The pilots' enclosed cabin was below and just ahead of the wing leading edge, fitted with side-by-side seating and dual controls.
The tail surfaces were steel tube structures with fabric covering[2] The colonial aircraft were expected to have to use basic or unprepared strips, so needed a robust undercarriage.
Each wheel was on a cranked steel half axle from the lower fuselage with a trailing recoil strut and a vertical oleo leg to the engine mounting.