Reggiane: from Falco to Sagittario

From the skies over Malta to the dramas of the summer of ’43: masterpieces of Italian engineering born in Reggio Emilia, capable of going head-to-head with the most fearsome Allied and German fighters, recounted here through technical details, behind-the-scenes stories, and tragic battles. Born of the genius of engineers Roberto Longhi and Antonio Alessio, the aircraft of the “Re.” series represent the pinnacle of Italian aeronautical evolution during World War II. This book explores the epic story of the Caproni-Reggiane fighters, considered true thoroughbreds of the skies. Through historical documents, a rich photographic archive, and over 20 previously unpublished profiles, this volume traces the history of four extraordinary aircraft: Re.2000 “Falco”: agile and innovative, it began the legend. Re.2001 “Ariete”: its great potential was put to use in the Mediterranean and the skies over Malta. Re. 2002 “Ariete I”: a formidable fighter-bomber also used by the Luftwaffe. Re. 2005 “Sagittario”: the pinnacle of technology, one of the most beautiful and lethal fighters ever built by the Axis.