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Macchi C.202 Folgore

Macchi C.202 Serie

fighterAeronautica Macchi · 1941–1948

OVERVIEW

Italian fighter that significantly improved Regia Aeronautica performance in Mediterranean combat.

HISTORIAN'S COMMENTARY

Before the Storm

Introduced between 1941 and 1948, Macchi C.202 Folgore reflected Italy priorities in air war and was produced by Aeronautica Macchi.

In the Field

At roughly 600 km/h with a range near 765 km and a ceiling around 11,500 meters, its combat envelope was shaped by engine performance, weather, and pilot stamina. Wartime industry turned out around 1,150 airframes.

Historian's Note

In combat it lived and died by pilot skill, climb timing, and who saw whom first. Its reputation rests on speed and initiative, but sortie generation and maintenance discipline determined real strategic effect.

SPECIFICATIONS

Crew1
Wingspan10.58 m
Max Speed600 km/h
Range765 km
Service Ceiling11,500 m
Armament2x 12.7mm Breda-SAFAT machine guns, 2x 7.7mm machine guns (many variants)
EngineAlfa Romeo RA.1000 RC.41 (DB 601A license-built)
Production1,150 built

DEVELOPMENT

This system was developed and fielded during World War II to meet branch-level operational requirements. Macchi C.202 Folgore entered service from 1941 to 1948 and was produced by Aeronautica Macchi. Doctrine prioritized air superiority, interception, and rapid tactical response.

COMBAT HISTORY

It saw wartime operational use, with employment varying by theater, doctrine, and logistics. Combat profile: top speed around 600 km/h, combat range near 765 km, service ceiling of 11,500 m, and total production of about 1,150.

NOTABLE USES

  • [01]Mediterranean air war - Macchi C.202 Folgore performance in this setting depended on pilot quality, sortie tempo, and maintenance turnaround.
  • [02]Defense of Italian mainland and Sicily - Air combat here highlighted the gap between published performance and mission reality under weather and fuel constraints.

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