The Fiat CR.42 is one of
the latest biplane fighter. Designed by Celestino Rosatelli, it
represented the culmination of this type of aircraft and succeeded
the excellent Fiat CR32 that distinguished itself during the Spanish
Civil War. The first flight of the Fiat CR42 took place on May 23,
1938. Its structure is entirely metallic, and has an open cabin.
The handling qualities of the Fiat CR42 Falco were recognized immediately
by the technical services. While the Fiat G.50 and Macchi M.C.200,
using the same engine started to be assembled, the mass production
of the fiat CR42 was decided.
At the beginning of the Second
World War, the Fiat CR42 accounted for almost half of the Italian
fighters. During the attack on Malta, he faced a similar biplane
of similar design: the Gladiator Gladiator with which he made equal
play. Thanks to its maneuverability, the Fiat CR42 could also stand
up for the first Hawker Hurricane. Exceeded, the Fiat CR42 will
finally be removed from the front lines and will be used in non-strategic
missions.
Equipped with anti-sand filters,
the Falco CR42-AS version will be used in North Africa North, for
radio transmissions. A Night Hunter version will also be derived:
CR.42 CN. It has escapement covers and is equipped with night fighting
equipment. In order to improve its autonomy, the Falco in its version
CR.42 Egeo is equipped with 1 100 liters of auxiliary tanks, which
allows it to double its autonomy.
The Falco, proposed for export,
interessa several countries and enjoyed a great commercial success.
Belgium equipped its Fighter squadrons that will face the Luftwaffe
in 1940. Sweden and Hungary also bought Fiat CR42. In addition,
we find Fiat CR.42 Egeo under the Iraqi colors in the Middle East.
