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.