Italian Air Force in the Battle of Britain

[Guest]

I'm sure most people on the forum know this already, but I was intrigued to discover that Italy sent a small expeditionary air force to take part in the BoB.

Italy’s Participation in the Battle of Britain - Armchair General and HistoryNet >> The Best Forums in History

[Guest]

"The Chianti Raiders," by Peter Haining, tells the story very well, and is worth a read, ISBN 1-86105-829-2.

Edgar

[tr1ckey66]

I read a little about this. Some of the fighters were open cockpit and fairly outdated. A token force for axis solidarity?

Seems they were fairly easy-meat for RAF defenders.

Paul

[Guest]

"The Chianti Raiders," by Peter Haining, tells the story very well, and is worth a read, ISBN 1-86105-829-2.Edgar

Thanks for that Edgar. Not come across that one. Just off to the library top of the list although it may be that an on line 2nd hand is most probable.

Laurie

[stona]

I read a little about this. Some of the fighters were open cockpit and fairly outdated. A token force for axis solidarity?Seems they were fairly easy-meat for RAF defenders.

Paul

The CR.42 was used and was an open cockpit biplane. It was as good as a biplane got and performed fairly well in the early war period. It was tough and very manouevreable though I agree on the verge of being out dated.

From memory I think the Italians may also have used some G.50s over Britain. The G.50 was a more familiar monoplane,enclosed cockpit design with retractable undercarriage. It was under powered and under armed but they were bravely and determinedly flown by their Italian pilots with some success,particularly in North Africa.

I'll second Edgar's recommendation. I thought I had a copy but can't find the Bl**dy thing to check the above!

Cheers

Steve