The 763 and 765 transport aircraft were the production developments of the 761, the design of which began in 1944. The prototype 761 powered by four 1,192kW SNECMA 14R engines flew for the first time on 15 February 1949. A pre-series of three aircraft, designated 761S, was then produced, powered by 1,490kW Pratt & Whitney R-2800 B31 engines.

The 763 was the first production version of the Deux Ponts. Twelve were ordered by Air France in 1951, powered by four 1,788kW R-2800 CA18 engines. The fuselage was generally similar to that of the 761, but the wing span was increased and the wings were reinforced. It was a convertible passenger/cargo airliner with standard accommodation for 59 tourist-class passengers on the upper deck and 48 second-class passengers on the lower. As used by Air France, the 763 was known as the Provence and first entered service in March 1953. All were operated between France and Algiers.

The 765 Sahara was the military transport version with accommodation for 146 fully equipped troops, 85 stretchers and medical attendants or freight (including military vehicles loaded through the large rear-opening ramp). Fifteen were ordered for the French Air Force in 1956 powered by Pratt & Whitney R-2800 GB-16 or CB-17 engines. The first flew on 6 September 1958.