The Étendard was a naval light attack fighter, which in service was often recognized for its popularity with its pilots due to its maneouverability.  It had a highly swept foldable wing, which featured double-slotted flaps and spoilers, as well as powered ailerons and leading edge droop flaps.  It was powered by the SNECMA Atar engine, which had also powered the French Air Force's Dassault Mirage III. The configuration was broadly similar with the exception of the removed afterburner. The Étendard was capable of transonic speeds, being only able to exceed the speed of sound when in a dive.

The Étendard could be furnished with various equipment to carry out its mission roles, which included attack, photo-reconnaissance, and aerial refueling tanking. In addition to the commonly fitted 30mm DEFA cannon, various armaments and munitions could be carried on the four wing hardpoints, such as Nord 5103 air-to-air missiles, rocket pods, bombs, and drop tanks. A retractable nose-mounted refueling probe was also fitted. Other optional equipment included a Tacan receiver and a braking parachute for land operations. A compact Dassault Aida radar was installed in the nose, along with a small infrared sensor for guiding munitions.

Étendard IV - The prototype powered by a 34.34 kN (7,720 lbf) SNECMA ATAR 101E3, first flown on 24 July 1956

 Étendard IVB - One prototype fitted with a 49.82 kN (11,200 lbf) thrust Rolls-Royce Avon engine and blown flaps.

 Étendard IVM - Single-seat Maritime strike fighter aircraft for the French Navy.

 Étendard IVP - Single-seat Photo reconnaissance aircraft for the French Navy.