First published 1968 © 1988 Chris Dunning and Air Research Publications All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photo-copying or recording in any information or retrieval system without written permission from the publisher ISBN 1.871187 01 X ‘Typeset by Qualitext, Salisbury SP2 7BE and printed in England by Oxtord University Press, Walton Street, Oxford (OX2 6AB, for the publishers Air Research Publications. Produced by Kristall Productions Ltd, 71b Maple Road, Surbiton, Surrey KT 4AG. Contents Foreword. Acknowledgements . . Command Structure Aircrew Ranks Aircraft Types . Weapons . ‘Camouflage Markings 2 . Gruppi (Unit histories) Glossary, colours and sources... Sava yp eo Dedications 1. In honour of the Italian airmen of World War II, whom Allied propaganda has often treated in an unkind way Thope I have done them justice. as this — my Mum, ME 202 of 360,188 Gr, ready fr take-off a Harpooa’ convey. An'S79, possibly from 13 «colour scheme of chest patches on gree. Chinisia, om 14 June 1942. That morning they escorted Ju 87s of 102 Gi ‘Gruppoand.an MC 200 aren the backgrou ‘Note the black cat badge. The second fighter isin "everse’ To the person whom I most respect and love, who laid the foundation in my formative years that I may create such | | | 39 was hijacked in Might from Greece by its POW passengers, and is usualy showin its sub- ‘original Italian markings as own into Kalafrana, Malta, before being repainted two days later. Note the old ste Foreword The intention behind this book and its follow-on volume is to provide a ready reference source for historians, wargamers, and interested parties who may have been involved in the theatres shown. It will also provide the aviation enthusiast with comprehensive and extensive information not readily found in other publications. Its also the only detailed account of all the unit movements and equipment, to date Due to the extent of the information I have uncovered (some of which is published for the first time), Ihave had to expand this book into two volumes. The second currently in preparation, will cover the remaining Gruppi (up to 171 Gruppo). the independent Squadriglic (120 to 616 Sq Autonomo), Operational maps and unit insignia. Any reader requiring the second volume, please refer to page 48 of this volume, Why has the Regia Aeronautica been treated in the West as an ‘ineffective’ opponent or ally? I believe the main reasons (not necessarily in this order) were: 1. A lack of finance in Italy for limited industrial and material resources. In the early stages Britain, too, did not have the quality and quantity of resources needed to halt defeat 2. The basic Malian attitude to the war and a lack of the Killer” instinct. 3. The lethargic control and organisation of the supply system. 4. The obsolete equipment, despite some excellent engineering ideas. (Especially the under development of an efficient radio communications system) 5. Highly effective Allied propaganda 6. The misunderstandings of all the Services of each others needs. 7. The lack of appreciation between higher and lower ranks. 8. The reliance on ideas proven in Albania, Ethiopia and Spain, where opposition was limited 9. Too many different aircraft types from limited resources, rather than standardisation on a select few. 10. The lack of development in more powerful aircraft engines, which resulted in reduced performance in weapon and load carrying abilities, Despite allthis, the Italians were the first to experiment with radio-controlled aircraft, and they taught the Germans about torpedo-bombing. They practised air to air bombing Thomas). and were quick to learn the inadequacies of high level ‘bombing against shipping. With engines licence-built and bought from Germany, they produced fighters equal to their ‘opponents (but as in most wars — t00 little too late!) My personal impression is that the Italian frontline airmen and groundcrew of World War 2 were no different to the young men of other nations. They suffered from the same inadequacies (maybe more so) in the systems meant to support them, learned to ‘make do’ in most situations, but received the comradeship only those involved could understand. This is all the more sad, because the ignorance of this experience is what causes wars to repeat themselves in one form or another. One of mankind's deadliest falibilities and maybe the original °Catch 2: The period covered by these volumes does not extend to a full history of pre-war and post-war activities, due to space limitations. Thus, only the combat period 10 June 1940 to 8 September 1943 is noted Claims stated in the text are those in Italian records — not necessarily the real outcome of the combats. It must be remembered that all Air Forces. suffered. differences between those claimed and those actually shot down. One of the related problems was identification. Such was the reputation of the Spitfire, that Italian aircrew were claiming them all over the Mediterranean and Balkans months before they arrived! In the following pages I hope to show the extent of the Regia Acronautica’s commitment to the various theatres they were expected to cover. Chris Dunning Acknowledgements ‘Thank you to the following For their helpful advice and encouragement, Elizabeth Kirby, bookseller of Stratford on Avon; Ron Murray of ISO Publications, and Dave Hetherall of Beaumont Aviation Literature. Chris Eilis and Simon Parry for their guidance towards publication, My family and friends, especially my Koalas, for their warmth, enthusiasm, and support The AMP Society for allowing me the time off to complete this book. Most of all, to the Imperial War Museum staff for their patience, courtesy, and help. In particular, Phil Reed of the Department of Documents, ably assisted by his staff, and the Department of Books, with enthusiasts such as Mary and TerryAreas of Command 1941-43 1.SQA1 2.SQA2 3. SQA 3 4. SQA 4 5.SQA5 6. ASIC 7. ASAR 8. AO! 9. ALB (incl. Av. Sioda) 10. AEGE 11. CAL 12. AGRE 13. CSIR 14. ATUN. 15. APRO 1. Command Structure ‘The operational commands of the Regia Aeronautica were divided into areas known as either Zona Aerea Territoriale, Squadra, Comando of the named area, or the title of the Expeditionary Force if they entered non-ltalian zones of influence. The first of these was a pre-war allocation which was soon discarded. ‘These commands were the equivalent of the German Lufiflotte, British Group, or American Division, and could be of mixed aircraft types. The following gives an outline of their duties Squadra 1 (SQA1) - Milano HQ This command was responsible for the protection of northern Italy, where most of the home industries were located. It was also a training area for the other commands. In the carly weeks units participated in attacks on southern France and Corsica, thereafter patrolling the French coastline and escorting the navy until September 1943. They also provided units for occupied France. Squadra 2 (SQA2) - Palermo HQ Initially based in Sicily for operations against Tunisia, Algeria, and Malta, it also controlled the sea between France and French-West Africa, blocked the Sicilian Canal, and carried out anti-shipping operations in the central Mediterranean. On 23 December 1940 it moved to Italy (Padova HQ) and from 6 April joined operations against Yugoslavia, supporting Squadra 4 and Aeronautica deli’Albania with supplies, equipment and back-up ‘operations, until 17 April. Thereafter, it remained on home defence duties until 1943, when many of its units were disbanded. Squadra 3 (SQA3) - Roma HQ ‘SQA3 controlled the sea between Corsica and the French coast and conducted operations in the _ western Mediterranean. Attacks were made in June 1940 on France and Corsica. It turned to home defence duties ut November 1942, when several units were passed to ‘Acronautica della Sardegna and Aeronautica della Sicilia for anti-invasion operations. From July to August 1943, it helped defend Sicily, resuming home defence duties until September. Squadra 4 (SQA4) - Bari HQ This command covered the central and eastern Mediterranean, the Adriatic Sea, and watched the Balkan countries. From 28 October 1940023 April 1941, with HQ now at Brindisi, (replacing 4 ZAT on 30 December), they operated against Greece. The Yugoslavia campaign was entered from 6 to 17 April 1941. From 28 April to 1 May they covered the occupation of Corfu, Cefalonia and Zante Islands. HQ was moved to Bari on 10 May. They then supported Aeronautica dell’ Albania through to 1943. Some units were then passed to the defending commands of Sardinia and Sicily and the rest helped defend Sicily in July and August 1943, Home defence duties continued until the end. ‘Squadra 5 (SQAS5) ~ Tripoli HQ Originally Aeronautica della Libia until 15 July 1940, when this split into Settore Ovest (Tripoli) and Settore Est (Tobruk) to ease administration problems over such a vast area of North Africa. Operations were carried out on Egypt In November, 1940, Mountain troops (Alpini) have just disembarked from 5 of 3 sy 147 Gr, at Tirana, The aircraft has green mottle on dull tellow, or possibly fight green. Note the yellow cowling rings. and Tunisia, mainly border patrols at first, and attacks on shipping in the central and eastern Mediterranean. ‘On | September 1940, they supported the advance on Sidi Barrani, losing heavily during the subsequent retreat from 9 December to 6 February. A lack of proper ground attack aircraft meant committing even ordinary bombers to attacks at ground level where small arms fire was deadliest, With German assistance, they returned to the attack on 15 February 1941, only to retreat again in November. A counter-attack was launched in January 1942, ending in the conquest of Tobruk in June and the advance to Alamein by July. Because of the comparative lower ability of their aircraft to fight and re-equip, in 1941 and 1942 the Germans agreed that Italian airerew in Africa would deal with the protection of ports, supply lines and escort duties. The Germans would continue the front-line activities, calling on the large Italian numbers only when a major offensive was launched. This doctrine was modified when the MC202s arrived in numbers, allowing the MC200s, G50s and CR42s to switch to fighter-bomber roles. A Settore Centrale was added on 15 July 1942 to cover Cires A build-up of resources culminated in the Alamein battles which reached a pitch in October 1942, ending in a retreat from Egypt and Libya by January 1943. On 15 February the command took over the Tunisian area until withdrawn from Africa in May, when the Squadra ceased. Aeronautica della Sardegna (ASAR) - Cagliari HQ This command covered the central Mediterranean, Tunisia, Algeria and helped block the Sicilian Canal. Operations were made on French shipping between France and A‘ in June 1940. They were very active against the Malta- bound convoys and were thrown against the invasion forces, reinforced by Squadra 3 and 4, from November 1942 to May 1943. They then assisted’ in the defence of Sicily, relying on self-defence in the last weeks of the war. When Corsica was occupied in 1943, they commanded that area too. An Ro-4¥ of 18459, 83 Gr, used for training and liaison at Augusta in 1941 ae Aeronautica dell’Egeo (AEGE) - Rodi HQ This controlled the Aegean Islands and later Greece (Aeronautica della Grecia (AGRE) was not operational until 15 August 1941, HQ Athens). The main duties were escorting convoys from Greece to Libya, anti-shipping ‘operations in the eastern Mediterranean and armed recces of Egypt, Turkey, Palestine, Syria and Cyprus. They supported the campaigns against Greece, then Crete (20 to 31 May 1941). Aeronautica dell’Albania (AALB) — Tirana HQ This command controlled the Adriatic Sea, watched the Balkans and joined the Greek (28 October 1940 to 23 April 1941) and Yugoslav (6 to 17 April 1941) campaigns Following the Balkan surrender, the area was split into German and Italian occupation zones. On 7 May 1942 the ‘area was sub-divided into air commands for Albania and Slovenia-Dalmazia, for Anti-partisan operations until September 1943 Aeronautica della Sicilia (ASIC) — Palermo HQ From 23 December 1940 they took over from Squadra 2, ‘with operations against Malta, blocking the Sicilian Canal and anti-shipping sorties in the central Mediterranean. They were heavily involved in the campaign to reduce Malta and from November 1942, operated against the invasion forces in French West Africa and protected the sea and air convoys cen route to and from Tunisia. It was virtually wiped out in July and August, trying to defend itself and Pantelleria. Aeronautica della Tunisia (ATUN) — Tunis HQ ‘This command was formed in November 1942 for the control of supply routes between Sicily and Tunisia, and for the protection of the main ports in Tunisia. These were Tunis, Bizerte, Sousse and Sfax. Units from the Sicilian command were used until 15 February 1943, when the area ‘was absorbed by Squadra 5 and the command ceased. Aeronautica della Provence (APRO) — Salon HQ ‘The Italians moved into southern France on 9 November 1942, at the same time occupying Corsica and moving into Tunisia. The air command was set up on 15 April 1943, using mainly close support units. Later, it became a training ground for the remnants of the bomber force until ousted by the Germans in September 1943. Africa Orientale Italiana (AOI) - Addis Abeba HQ Limited in resources and reliant on supplies via Libya, this area, covering Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somaliland,’ was widely fought over from June 1940 to November 1941. The command was split into north, east, west and south areas. They patrolled the Sudanese, Kenyan, French and British Somaliland borders and watched for activities in the Red Sea, Indian Ocean and at Aden. Attacks were launched on British Somaliland and southern Sudan. Many battles were fought with antiquated and sparse numbers of aircraft on both sides. The area was unusual in that its bomber units, for the most part, had duplicate numbers with those in other command areas.‘Two ER 25 bis of 173 sq at Palermo, being prepared for convey escort vrork in 1942, Standard green motile on chestnut finish is applied. Note Serial om til in black. Corpo Aereo Italiano (CAI) - Brussels HQ Mussolini decided to join Hitler's subjugation of England and formed this expeditionary force on 10 September 1940. However, the units proved relatively ineffective in the aerial campaign due to outdated aircraft and tactics. They were ‘withdrawn by 15 April 1941, having made a few coastal raids and local fighter patrols. Corpo di Spedizione Italiano in Russia (CSIR) - Tudora HQ ‘The Comando Aviazione for this expeditionary force was formed on 25 July 1941. They were to support the Italian 8th Army in its advance to the River Don and operations in southern Russia, Where necessary, they also assisted the Germans, receiving commendations from General Messe and the local German commanders for covering the assault over the Don. After the retreat from Stalingrad began, the air contingent withdrew to Italy in January 1943. In 17 ‘months the two fighter gruppi had flown over 6000 sorties, claiming 88 for the loss of 19. Regia Marina (RM) to RAF Coastal Command and was equipped with land and ship-borne flying boats and sea planes, Individual area commands covered the Alto ‘Adriatico, Tonio e Basso Adriatico, Alto Tirreno, Basso Tirreno, Sardegna, Sicilia, and Isole dell’Egeo. They carried out anti-shipping, anti-submarine, convoy escort, air-sea-rescue, and maritime recce duties. The ZS06Bs were initially used to bomb land targets too. On 20 May 1943 eleven Sezioni Aerei di Soccorso replaced all ASR units, Servizi Aerei Speciali (SAS) This was the Transport Command, which was split in two sections. The SAS itself was equipped with military aircraft, based in various areas of Italy, according to the current support requirements. The second section was the Nuclei Communicazioni, which largely had commandeered civil aircraft, older types of transport and light communications types. Where possible and comparatively safe, they used the pre-war civil routes to keep in touch with the Italian Empire and its Allies. Both sections ferried supplies, men, and post to and from the war zones. The excellent S82 could carry a complete fighter and was important to continued operations in East Africa. Most aircraft ferrying was done by front-line Units at rest, or those due to use them. Heavy losses were suffered during the Tunisian campaign. Aviazione per il Regia Esercito (AVRE) ‘This was the Army Co-operation Command and the individual Gruppi and Squadriglie were attached directly to various Army Commands. By late 1942, these units were only operating in the Balkans where there was less threat of annihilation for their vulnerable aircraft. Although giving ‘zood support inthe early stages of the war, they were later a ¢great drain on the already limited resources of the air force, despite the excellent work by the crews. The emphasis was then on fighter defence and anti-shipping strikes. Tactical Units ‘The basic tactical unit was the Stormo. This consisted of two Gruppi and normally had one type of aircraft. Each Gruppo comprised two (bomber) or three (fighter) Squadriglie, which had from six to nine aircraft each, There was sometimes a Nucleo, which was effectively a Staff Section There were also many independent (Autonomo) Gruppi and Squadriglic which were directly responsible to their area command, These usually had slightly more aircraft and ‘crews on strength. Each unit was supplied with replacement aircraft and crews from its own Gruppo Complementare (Training Unit) which was based in Italy During my research, I came across several terms referring to the ceasing of active service. The most common were ‘scioglie’ (dissolved), and ‘quadro’ (suspended). 1 have translated all these terms, for simplicity, as “disbanded Th ew of the Cant Z $06 shown om page 3, pictured w {so types of tropical 2. Aircrew The Italian airman was generally well-trained in the early stages of the war, excelling in aerobatics and general handling of his aircraft. The fighter pilot tended to dogfight more than the German, where possible, in order to use his good manocuvrability. He flew in an attitude of high adventure. However, his. natural excitement tended to counter atrue aggression, although when flying a competent aircraft he was as good as any combatant. The ME 109, MC 202, and $ 79 pilots could be notably dangerous. Poor supply organisation and the resulting low serviceability of aircraft and ground systems, frustrated his efforts to join combat as much as was required. The situation became so bad, even by 1941, that, for example, it prompted several demands from the air force's commander in Sicily to his units to ensure that delays on take-off be reduced from over one hour to the permitted 20 minutes, and that unserviceable aircraft be worked on urgently instead of being left unattended! This situation caused severe lack of success in operations against the Malta convoys, even with good initial planning, Despite this situation, morale remained relatively high right through to the surrender. even in the periodic retreats ‘The German bomber crews were often pleased to see Italian fighter escorts, as they would usually defend the bombers st all odds if necessary. The co-operation at ground level. in the lower ranks, between the fighting airmen of both ‘countries was generally quite good. After all. they lived and died under the same conditions, such as in Russia, Africa and Sicily. However, the officers and NCOs were segregated in much the same way as the RAF, sometimes causing a lack of cohesion, and aloofness in crew procedures, ‘There was never a shortage of trainee aircrew, although 1c crew of the RAF Beaufort who captured them, on arrival at Kalafrana, 30 July 1942, Note form ~ shorts and shirt, and fll unc and trousers. See page 47 for fll story (G. Thoma). lack of fuel and first-line trainers meant a slow and diminishing flow of replacements. ‘There are many comments recorded on the keenness of these inadequately trained young men, and it was always a problem giving them a proper combat initiation with the limited number of aireraft available. For example, on 14 May 1943, 160 Gruppo had 39 pilots available, but only five operational Re200Is! Maritime and desert navigation was quite good, especially with experienced colonial crews. Lack of radio communications was a great handicap and the inefficient ground support systems made metropolitan travel a ‘cumbersome task. Initially, most aircraft had no radio and when they did start to receive them in late 1940 and early 1941, the slow-timing beacons and receiver/transmitt interference were never completely cured. This especially hit home when trying to intercept raids on the home territories, day or night, The lack of resources and finance ‘was the route cause of this, despite the innovative minds of Italian engineers, From mid 1942, with German assistance, the Italians became more aggressive, even in the retreat following the Alamein battles. Naturally, when the Allies were pressing in on their homelands, they responded with vigour within their limited means, especially with the new generation fighters. Despite heavy losses on the ground due to enemy superiority in numbers and poor ground warning systems, the occasional dent was made in the incoming tide. To other combatant countries the main hero of the air force was the fighter pilot. However, as famous, if not more so, the Italian heroes came from the torpedo-bomber units. These flew with skill and nerve, through ever-increasing defences. Among the most celebrated were Magg Carlo Buscaglia, Gen Guilio Graziani, and Col Giovanni Farina. Only three out of the 29 top medal winners survived the war Their achievements rank with the best of the equivalet combatant arms from any other nation in the war. In over two years (April 1941 to June 1943), they sank or badlydamaged at least 4 major merchant and warships, plus an ‘unknown quantity in co-operation with German aircraft and against coastal units Although officially all claims were allotted to the parent unit, individual pilots and crews would still keep their own records. Thus, you can occasionally find scores painted on aircraft in the fashion followed by other nations. The top scoring fighter pilots, as far as known, were: Serg Teresio Martinoli t Franco Lucehini 21* (+5 Spain) Sottoten Leonardo Ferrulli_ 21" (+1 Spain) Capt Franco Bordoni-Bisleri 19 Magg Adriano Visconti 19* — (+7ANR)t Serg Luigi Gorrini 15 (+4ANR)t Col Duilio Fanali 15 Capt Mario Visintini 15 *These men did not survive the war +The ANR is the Fascist Air Arm of the post-armistice Italian Forces, Right: Two crew members of a 7 1007 bis prepare fora sortie over the Mediterranean in 1942, Note the deflated lifeJackets, and distress flares attached to the legs. The helimet and zipped flying boots are in black leather, and the fying overalls area Hight Khaki. The lfejackets are chrome yellow in cologr. Below: A LeO 451 in full RA markings at Levaligl in 1943. Mos aircraft ofthis type, with 213 sg, S1 Gr, were lacking fll arma instr iments, The original French colours were retained, although the fuselage Seems to have een recoated, ready for allan insignia. 3. Ranks ‘The rank structure was generally similar to the RAF, with most aircrew made up of Officers and NCOs. Pilots could be of any rank, based on their experience and qualifications. The other crew-members were known as specialists. Prom- otion was slow, even in depleted units The table below gives a comparable chart of the airerew ranks of the major competing air forces in the Mediter SH) comm Primo Avie (cloth) Sergent Maggoire Sergent (raid) (brain) REGIA ARERONAUTICR RAF Colomelo Group Capt Oberst. Tenente Col Wing Car Oberstt Maggore Squadron Lr Major ‘Captano —FightLt Hauptmann Captaro 1Teren te Fying OH Obert Tenente Sototen ete Plot Off Leutnant ‘Autante Bat Marescalo Warrant ot ago Marescio Stabstwbl Capo Marestiao 08 Sergent Overt ‘Maggie Fight Sot Felewebel Sergent Sergeant Untertwbt Prime Aviere Lag Aman Unteroft Havptget (berget Geter vere LUFTWAFFE USAAF SAAF ARMEE sevain Colonel Colonel Colonel Lt Colonel Lt Coane Lt Colonel Naor Magc Commandant aptan Captain Capitaine tstlt —_Lewt—Leutenant 2nd ana Sous Lt ‘aja. che niet wo Warrant of Maser Sot 1s Sat Tech Sot Air Sot Sut Sat 4. Aircraft Types have listed below brief details on all the types used by the Regia Aeronautica. Full specifications can be found in other publications. Generally, most aircraft suffered from underpowering and poor armament. However, they were often not the worst in their classes by any means The first column gives the company name and model number, followed by the month and year the prototype first flew. Then the number built and crew required, guns, (M machine gun, C = cannon) and bombload (Ib), speed (mph) and engine horsepower. rat ie le Flew Crew etfs tc eeee | tH as 2 feat ree tft opopvees atid ee teat erie Sa Caproni ca309 ‘Aug 1936 243 eae cones se ; Ove of the SA 1207 8431). This isa pre-r Bequipped 83, 18Gr, inthe lat weeks of war Finished in dark olive green, was picture Guns Bombs nil =u. 220 OM. 396 3M. 1100 nil nil 2M nil nil aM 2750 aM. 1100 5M. 2640 1M ou. 2200 5M. 2200 2M. 2200 aM 880 aM. 1100 2M nil 2M 16 2800 2M. 440 aM 880 aM. 4a10 M. 1550 nil nil nil 2M 700 om 440 aMetc nil 2M 100 St Engine 180 200"1 27 600"1 205 700"1 im 900"1 130 190°2 202 300"1 205 700°3 267 1000°3 205 7004 186 700"1 166. 480°3 214 900°3 an 205" 227 7503 267 900°1 267 10002 155 200°2 304 000-2 189 700" 285 920°2 293 40" 28 470"2 280 1000°3 286 40"2 229 750°3 276 750°3 314 37071 267 4071 326 93071 228 500°2 Notes ‘Transport Hack’ sireraft in ‘combat unt Fighter biplane. Close support and rightighter unt! 1941 Recoe biplane. Army cooperation Balkans only ater late 1942, FRecos fying boat. Good range, but slow Transport biplane, similar to De Havilland Dragon, Fighter:trainer b-piane. Only in reserve, inferor to CR 32. Civil transport. Commandoered for the Libyan tront Bomber, orpedo-bomber. Good design. Eaay to ly and maintain ‘Transport. Commandoored trom Ala Litera, Recoefloaiplane. Coastal duties. Standard catapultplane embarked Bomber-transport. Main Bomber in East Atica Bomber.transpor. Miltary version of S73. Liaison. Ant-partisan duties ‘rom late 1982, Fecoe, Bomber fying boat. Good in ASR and recce roles, Ground attack. Also two-seat version. Hard tof and slow. Bomber. Relegated tonight role by mig-1941 Light bomber, Colonial duties Efficient, but vulnerable Assault plane, Difficult 10 Floatpiane fighter. Single-soat version ot RO43. Bomber. Worn out examples from Vichy France. Fighter. Low pertormance. From 1041, used as fighter bomber. ght bomber. Uprated version of Ca 308. Main bomber from 1941. Popular with crows, Escort fighter. Easy to maintain Mainly convoy escort rol. Transpor. Slow. Later versions had a dorsal turret Transpor. Civil version of S79. Fighter. Slow, but ood dive and manoeuvrabiity, Fighter-bomber role 1942. Fighter b-plane. Sturdy. Ground attack, nightightor roles 1942. Fighter. Ex-Viehy French. Usetul Dive-bomber. Unsuccesstul and Quickly withdrawn,Mouenchmin 11106 ‘0 er) Hpetgnr. Wore exancon : Me le eee a capeniva FS Feo 1800 a MO Recta eos i : s 68. capes caster 00 Pa Oe Light bomber. Roplced Re Sepune--- se iene a _ eS Pepe egresy Ss, The Tian 7.7 mam and 12:7 mm machine-guns were ‘aia May at wo a oR fe ec Gamage Feta fe gel Bacar ern ctderat Poon ‘020 a tm Sit? arbors Sowa rene stating fms 66 Gide SOU Wiki Soma Jae umes Wu0re 1990 "0 ‘mS Set enan roo good as the US.S inch. Some of the fighters also had oe xo 2 ae) oe you paged felunce on Garman ingore (onl tirencclewt MOTISI) 111 atacaeeiatauseuennnae nearer cos ; fee nanan an srs Hc Fococd cammosrarsies iuees, Opceationsl an Siriaas oereceny mpuimoroee oetaen inet SavoiaM $82 ct 1998 71 4M 200, Bomber-transport. Larger version ‘were also carried out with air-to-air bombing over Sicily 4 sem 80' F576 role iondranae Tei Gm GaN ace were momen cay & cm zt tt 7 um Serer pedomance'o snilttude of smaller bombs (13,20, 36 40,30, 100 or 160 4 So ono GS EE pew Ig). The idea was that the more bom, the more likely you Pago F108 Nov099 2% Sie Onan sna, wero to hie target Laer, aux of light to 100 kg) and B manoene nesmenee, Foes talteaee. edium (250 or ‘g) bombs was usec leavier bombs, toch 808 Jun 100 on a St Sime ete cen eat ‘medium (250 or 500 kg) bombs was used. Heavier bombs. 2 gat, Bamber pede ech me 200 ke. con ony beso on shorn mieioan eee een gametes. eidorat R068 Jun 180 ‘ 10 Lame eter For aniaubmnarine work they used 160 kg deph-bombs, $ a 2, Sere ee epee : ; ce 7h hg sepiecberes. ‘Tho moat pole senbipptay vonkers Ju eo 2 at, B,—_—Bamba Wor out examples tom capi ‘was ds S00 be oc 290 MA Urpodo, ome Wy fuagare Reto OAD 28 ae re Gare ean ground atk Wittchead or Fhime. This could be launched a 300 kmh, a Taal Gal tes eseaRaaleeseenveat ; fey Seat ner 30 to 40 acres height, of range of 160 mre, Sel erat are ante ine Macchi C MC 202 ‘Aug 1940 1s. os Aa Fighter, (ah but ouscienent In 1942, a new weapon was introduced as a diversion ‘run, (See 22 Gruppo for further details). 175-4 1040. Very suconastl casio. during torpedo attacks. This was the motorised bomb ‘FF. Ambrosini Salz07 190 18 asze amen hgh, Goad wick mn docoped by pause io to Wor, a rat aw 1840 ‘ot E > See ae eee Soocdialiy boas cating 9 txts Of sont 12 br ‘ a ae eta They had ite wees fagoane —Re2002 Ont 10 at a Tosa peared 1883 : Sees eee ae meek i ees wn # fa’ Ubon Some comes 3 Tio are ate re “ome axe alto | Be’ Sauer Denti : ee ate Monet 811006 ‘0 ieee ada aaa : a ae Stu Carmen inge Dorie Oo2t74 108 ewe; onan ee aay capenivaF6M sop 161 : a Se Ramen te ea SS eos ieee ee ea ace Macchi MCAOSV ree owe ‘ae RS ree tpl ru oss ye 1902 wo’ Ree nd aang peters eee anden pealtuome es tek pare ante ; a ee Satna Tori Reggiane Re 2005 May 1942 38 2M+3¢ 390 Fighter. Excellent, highly rated 1 1380 1a7s"1 toGernane: Femrburt Right: An $81 of 202 sq, 40 Gr, over Albania I mottled in dark yellow ‘or light green on a dark green base Junkers wua703 1942 a au 248 Dive-bomber. German impor, eae 2 5205 134071 ‘Overwhelmed by the odds, Belom: AZ. 1007 bio 172sq at Chievres in October 1940. The five arerat Macchi M205 Nov 1942 2 as 3c 390 rContended with G 88 and ofthis unit made feint attacks on the English coast during the Battle of 4 il 14651 Re 2006, Briain, . Left: An Ro 37 of 121 sq, 1 Gr OA, possibly at ‘Alrasca in 1940. The wavy banded’ camouflage ‘asin maroon, green and yellow i The unit iv stated and shown as 294, 44 ‘only 6 and 7 sq of this Gruppo are shown in tiicial references. Note the black cross on the ‘white hand, peculiar tothe East African from Yea is 1940Jone, 192 jes out of Sciacca to joi the atack on a Mata-bound convoy. It aircraft at this time. Note the aircraft number (2) repeated in wi ortrays the classic mottled camouflage Finish ten the wing leading edge. Below: An S 79 of 44 bis Gruppo abandoned at Dire Dawa. The aieraft had patches of dark and. Tight green over 6. Camouflage There were many variations to colour tone and scheme, From June 1942, the last three 1942 entries shown above according tothe supplies and age ofthe pain available. The were reversed for desert use. For example, fighters could Paint was applied by arora factories, depots or individual have a chestnut base with sparse dark olive green mottle Units. Most alan paints had a low durability, so aircraft Also from that year, Macchi fighters were given wavy soon showed the undercoatsor bare aluminium after a short irregular rings in dark olive green over the chestnut base while “The majority of undersurfaces were light blue grey Onders were issued periodically for new official schemes. although in the early months of war bare aluminium was The economy of using existing stocks of pre-war paints often seen (until atleast 1941) and the hectic periods of action, meant long delays in applying these schemes. Newly delivered A Ca 309 of 104 sq, 1 Gr, APC, in Libya in June 1940 atthe start ofthe aireraft, with the latest colours, often fought sie by side in 3", The lakh em te ih ren ote on dark ello. Tht cr the same unit as aircraft with previous schemes. This could __' Plain overall dark yellow (ie sand) colour, lead to some very colourful units! Tn March 1939 orders were laid down for official wartime colour schemes, followed by revisions in July 1941, June 1942 and June 1983, Because of the many variations, listed below are the main ‘guidelines only Period Upper Surface Aircraft 1940 Bands, wide greenithin yellowiwice maroon $7946 Stormo) MC 200s of 155 sq, 3 Gr, in Sky fn 1943. Note the unusual marking of 1940 Dark bue-grey Seaplanes both squad om the fuselage band, and he typical 1980 Yellow and green mote Sombors, fighters ‘variation in motte application om the two areraft visible 1941 Dark ove gre Seaplanes 1981 Dark blue-grey Night aicratt 1941 White with Red Cross ina red ring Ambulance 1982 Light ue-grey Torpedo-bombers, Do 217s 1942 Dark olive groon Bombers 1942 Dark ove green and dense chestnut motile Bombers 1942 Dark olive groen and sparse chestnut motile Fighters 1942 Darke green and large chestnut motte, Assauit planes 1903 Dark alive green, trom ane Fignters Am ex-Vichy Dewoitine D $20 about tobe trans- ferred from Istres to Villanova dAlbenga in 1SG3, 1 esti in original French colours, with white identification stripes added Below: ACR 42 CN Serie XU exhaust flame dampers under the fuselage. It is Sssumed the white eros and band would by fess conspicuous for night fighting! The unit sm Known, TH —_ Most foreign aircraft kept their original delivery colours, with Italian insignia added. The German aircraft all had RLM 74/75/76 finish, but some Dorniers were recoated with light blue-grey, as noted above. The Dewoitine 520 kept its French brown/grey/green banded scheme, although some received a dark olive green upper and light blue-grey under coating. The original scheme soon reappeared making an interesting display Bt Above: A Ca 311 Mof 116s, 71 Gr, at the Russian camp of Kantemirovka {in 1942, Groen motte on chestnut base is the colour scheme, with the ‘motte applied very finely Above: A rare photo of a Breda 64 of 102 sq. 19 Gr, at Lonate Pozzlo in Sommer 1940, It was possibly used for training purposes. Right: In April, 1941, groundcrew remove the engine ofa 7.501 of 142sq Menelao. The overall camouflage was ight blue grey Pre-war overall iver colour scheme is well shown on this Fat B.R. 20 shown herein service in 1939, The standard roundels are caried onthe wing (one ‘just visible below the wingtip) andthe fins carry the fll red/white green national colour stripes.Colour scheme is olive green over sand with light blue-grey lower surfaces. Note that all mottle schemes differed slightly in application from aircratt to aircraft. Dark Olive: Green Light Grey Positioning of wing emblems on W.W. I! Italian aircraft, lower emblem in same position. Gael Voll sand Yellow 1O3rd Squadrighia. While the colours used are the same, the different ssle of mottling, Fine and coarse, results (courtesy Exact-a-Scal) be processed. The airraft i in the olive green mottled, heavily inthis case, 14 of 131 5g, 66 Gr, prepares to take off ives this aircraft an almost ‘overall dark 19 Ro 37 bis (MIMIO7 ype AGR6I camera is ben cember, 1942, an S 84 of 258, 109 ‘shipping operations off the Tus lan coast. Colour scheme appears to be dark srcon on light blue-grey overall finish (C. Rie). Left: An Re 2000 Seri 1 (MMS072) of 77, in 1941, being maintained at Palermo. Camouflage finish & sand yellow patches over alive green. Wing markings are black outline only and are therefore no highly visible.An Re 2001 of 358 sq, 22 Gr, in Sicily in 1942. The Gruppo badge ia black bird, with white belly and yellow legs, holding a tommy The dark olive green is heavily applied giving virtually ‘dst trailing behind Note the crudely h ba od painted code 7. Markings Officially, individual markings and victory tallies were frowned upon. That is why tailplanes or fusclages daubed in the way the Germans or Allies celebrated their ‘kills’ were rarely seen, Honours were given to the unit, rather than the pilot or crew. It is difficult, even now, to ascertain individual claims, unless the crews kept their own unofficial records. Research in the official communiques rarely reveals nominated airmen, unless the unit commander was involved In the interest of quick identification, a fairly uniform approach was adopted. The national insignia consisted of three black fasces on a white circle, bordered in black, cesco Barac ‘appears of 1943. The badge reads white as isthe senile |. Ca 1388 ambulance plane Below: An MC 202 of 91 sq, 10 Gr, with typical chestnut motte on green. The 4 Stormo badge is fof a prancing horse, personal symbol of Fran (the World War One with wo puffs of dark yellow i just vinble a places applied to the upperwings (originated sityJ835)— 4 white on black background was sometimes applied underwing. By 1942, the background colour was deleted to allow the camouflage to show through. A single grey-brown fascio in a light blue circle, with black bordering, was applied on both sides of the forward fuselage or engine cowling (from 1926). The fascio blade always faced vertically forwards or horizontally outwards, From June 1940, the rudder was covered with a white cross on both sides, sometimes with one horizontal arm extending across the fin. The badge of the House of Savoia {introduced in 1930) was placed in or above the centre of the cross. For the first few weeks of combat, some units still retained the pre-war tricolour rudder markings of red/white/green (eg Z 506 Bs of 35 Stormo). ‘A broad white band was applied around the mid-fuselage from the autumn of 1940, although not widely used until (M1M91050) of 353 sq, 20 Gr, at Ciampino, Note ti lack of wing markings and ol stains onthe fuse carly 1941. Aircraft operating over Belgium and Russia received a yellow band (in line with nan Practice). In ta ~ cdition, they, and Balkan theatre aircraft, received yellow 3 engine cowlings. Yellow wingtips were added to Russian XN a 2a aircraft in 1942, Aircraft in East Africa wore a black 4 X° over the white band. For night missions. the fucelaze ‘ bands and fin crosses were usually blacked out The squadriglia number was normally shown on both ‘Side3"of the mid-fusclage, followed by a hyphen and the aircraft number (rarely higher than 15). Occasionally the squadriglia number would appear on the fin, such as on the Re 2002s of 101 Gruppo. The colour was nearly always black, with the aircraft number in red. The hyphen was black! For dark backgrounds, the numbers were outlined in white or yellow. Some aircraft numbers were also applied in black, white or yellow. These numbers were occasionally repeated on undercarriage legs (fighters and assault planes) or the cockpit area (bombers). There was no set size for the numbers. Unit commanders sometimes used personal aircraft with the Gruppo or Stormo number applied in Roman numerals (eg CL 111 on a MC 202 of 153 Gruppo). The commanders pennant was also applied under the cockpit or on the rear fuselage. The colours of these varied, but were usually seen, asa red horizontal stripe on a light blue standard, or black ‘on white. See below ee Squadriglia Commandante Di Gruppo Stormo the summer of 1942, a mechanic works on an MC200 of 356 4,21 Gry at Stalino, Russia, The Gruppo badge has white centaur with "21 Gruppo Caccia” written underneath It. Left: Commandante pennant ‘markings. Usually these had red band on light blue ora black band on whit. Above: ABR 20 Mof$q,43Gr, ofthe CAL at ‘Melsbrocch in 1941. The white national markings have been varnished black for night raids over England during the Rattle of Br Left: A Fiat CR 42 0f 9659, 9 Gr, forcedanded on 4 Libyan base, possibly-at Benghasi. The unit badge on the fin is knight's armoured leg. The ‘above is the shadow of the rudder. ‘stains on the forward top ing, {rom the propeller wash. The wing markings have fa white background and the wing tips are alo white.8. Gruppi Key to Units Headings The status and squadriglie shown we when the unit formed. Subsequent chi known, in the text Arrival ~ Earliest known day or month the unit used the base Base — The most used at that time, although the aircraft may have been scattered to subsiduary bases too. those on 10 June 1940, or ges are detailed, where A good view of SM 79s of 193 sa, 87 Gr, ying along the Yugoslav cous. ‘The ‘electric men’ used various camouflage patterns! The wording below the symbol reads *Ardisco, Colpisco, Meninfischio'. Note variation ia Zone — Command area or Expeditionary Force. - My own the, symbol reads “Ardisca, Colpisca, Meninfischio’. Note vari sblrevations See Gknsary for fl ties: motto appt to ach aera and on pote ALIB — Libya AALB ~ Balkans ASAR ~ Sardinia, Corsica AOI ~ East Africa AEGE ~ Aegean Islands ASIC. ~ Sicily, Pantelleria CAL ~ Belgium AGRE ~ Greece ATUN ~ Tunisia CSIR — Russia APRO — Southern France Sga Squadra (Replaced ZAT) ZAT — Areaof Command Duties ~ The most common during the time at that base AE ~ Aerial escort AS — Anti-Submarine DF ~ Day Fighting NF ~ Night Fighting AG — Anti Guerilla ASR — Air Sea Rescue GA ~ Ground Attack TB ~ Torpedo Bombing AN — Anti Naval CE — Convoy Escon IT — In Transit TG ~ Trainin AR ~ Armed re DB — Day Bombing NB — Night Bombing TR — Transport A pilot of 83 sq, 18 Gr, at Maldegem, Belgium, prepares toboard his CR 42 for an escort mission to England in 1940. The squadriglia and aircraft In October, 1940, BR 20 Ms of 4 sq, 11 Gr, are fying over Belgium. The ‘colours were chestnut brown and dark green over light green. Note Pluto Agedabia on 9 November, then to Sirte on 20th, joining 103 sq at fon each fuselage. Each squadrigha of 13 Stormo had numbers were unustaly three white arrows fl “The Gruppo badge was er a black fasci wit In Mareh, 1941, 160 7.1007 bis of 23054, ‘The spinach pattern of green on yellow effectively hides the ower aircraft. Note the 1 Gruppo APC Squadriglie 12, 89, 104 ARRIVAL BASE ‘COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE OUTIES 10Jun 1940 TrioliMelana —Trpoitan Ca309—ALIBAR Ca 164 Frise Jan 1943 Zuara Tripotan C2309 SqaS IT 20Jan 1843 CapuaGraranise tay C2313 «Syad TO cana The Aviazione Presidio Coloniale was formed to patrol the vast desert areas of Libya, surve} garrison forts, ‘mapping and keeping an eye on natives and bordering countries. Despite limited maintenance and fuel facilities, which were even ‘more pronounced when war began, the APC units continued these uties with much success. They also carried out many desert rescues which the Ca 309 coped with well, Although fragile, as var standards go, it proved capable of withstanding the desert conditions, This unit began its war by patrolling the Tunisian border as well as the oases and western desert area of Libya. They had I2aircraft available; aS 75 arrived in August, followed by a Fi 156C in September. On 22 November a Z'S09 (MM 351) joined the Gruppo and was used to escort § 75s around Libya. Two Ca 164s were received for local liaison duties from January 1941 Sometime after, 89 sq left the unit 103 sq was one of the Squadriglic Aviazione Sahariana which carried out similar duties to the APC, but on a more local basis They were at Hon in December 1941, with § 81s, and joined 1 Gruppo in June 1942. Their aircraft were passed tothe Battaglione Sahariana On 8 January 1942, a Ca 133 $ arrived at Sirte, followed by ‘another on 16 February, for ambulance duties in Libya. On 23 May 12 sq moved to Agedabia, maintaining sections at Mellaha, Derna and Gialo. In July 103 sq was detached to Misurata. 104 sq Stayed at Mellaha. On 15 August 12 sq, with five Ca 309s, went 0 Siwa, from where they helped to halt an enemy atiack on Gialo ‘oasis between 16 and 22 September 1942. 12 sq then returned to Misurata on the same day. Sections were still kept at Marsa Matruh, Derna and Gialo. 12 sq disbanded on 10 December, ppassings its aircraft and crews 10 103 sq. 104 sq was still at Mellaha, 103 sq, meanwhile was acting with 102 sq Aviazione Sahariana, to protect against further attacks on Gialo in December. This latter ‘unit was equipped with 11 ex-torpedo-bomber § 79s of 133 Gruppo and_was formed on | December, for the aforesaid purpose, at Castelbenito. It left for Italy by 20 January with five remaining S 79s. {As the Allies advanced across Libya, the Gruppo, together with 102 sq, retired to Mellaha, then withdrew to Italy in January 1943 with 13 Ca 309s. On | March, 1 Gruppo APC became 1 Gruppo OA with 103 and 104 sq and joined 20 Stormo. 103 sq left that day for 69 Gruppo and 36 sq took its place. 102 sq disbanded on 15 March, By 28 July the unit had 30 aireraft at Grazzanise. 1 Gruppo OA Squadriglie 27, 121 Stormo 20 ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE —_OUTIES 10Jun 1940 Arex aly Po? St un 1940 Lucca aly foo? = Sd aR i3un 1940 Arasca aly Roa? Sut AR This unit began the war under the command of Alto Comando Regio Esercito with 10 aircraft. Operations against France started ‘on II June, with 27 sq detached to Casabianca, Two days later the unit transferred to the control of IV Corpo d°Armata 27 sq disbanded on 25 February 1942, followed by the Gruppo oon | April, 121 sq had become autonomo on 20 March and was now under the control of 2 Armata See | Gruppo APC for further history2 Gruppo APC Squadriglie 16, 23 ARRIVAL —«BASE-—«COUNTRY AIRCRAFT. ZONE OUTIES 1OJun 1980 ElAdem © Genaca C309 LIB. AR, ‘un 1940 —Benghasi Grenaica «C2309 LIB. AR, S818 This unit began its war by patrolling the Egyptian border as wel as the oases and eastern desert area of Libya, They had seven aircraft available. InJune they received five S 81s, modified as ambulance aircraft and used by 16 sq. However, due to the shortage of transport aircraft these eventually left for units such as 145 Gruppo in early 1941. Five Ca 309s of 23 sq joined in the advance on Sidi Barrani ‘fier the British counter-offensive swept through their territory this unit remained based in the Benghasi arca until it was disbanded in August 1942. Desert missions were carried out to the south and south-east, but the unit was constantly under strength ‘and limited in its use 2 Gruppo CT Squadriglie 150, 151, 152 Stormo 6 ARRIVAL — BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES 1 Jun 1940 Grotagle tay CR32_«AZAT_ OF. TG. AE 650 21 Dec 1940 Castebenito Tipoltan G50 qa OF ‘Jan 1341 Marque” Grenaca G50. Sta OF, GA, AE 1 Feb 1981 Castebento Tipoltan G50AS SaaS. TG Mar 1941 Elfen Grenaca G50AS SaaS AE Bi 1041 Trwso? — ay «GED Saaz TC Mar 1882 Giarpino tay Re 2001 Saa3 16 44May 1912 Catagrone Scly Re2001 ASIC. F. AE, AN, AR 14Jun 1842 Casievetano Scly Re 2001 ASIC. AE 15.Jun 1942 Pantera Pantera Re 2001 ASIC AR, AE, AN Sui 1942 Castewevano Sly Re 2001 ASIC. EAN. AR 130g 182 Ghia Scly «Re 2001 ASIC. AE AN. CE Jan 1943 Trewso ay’, Re 2001 Sqa2 DF. NF 15iay 1883 Sarena tay 2001 Saat DEN 23May 1943 Genova italy, Re2001 Sat OF. NF cnaecn 0520 From June to November 1940, the unit patrolled the lower Ionian and Italian coastline. This did not bring much excitement, but ‘enabled the pilots to gain valuable flying experience as the CR 32s gradually exchanged for the more modern G 50s. On 20 ner the Gruppo became Autonomo, The first ation came battle of Punta Stilo. Orders arrived in December for a move to africa, Being the first monoplane fighter unit to serve there, they were reinforced on 16 December by 358 sq with 9 GS0s and a Ca 133, From21 to23 December 18 G 50s arrived at Castelbenito, Like ‘most Italian units, they began suffering from sand in the engines Even so, they defended Tripoli port and. its wea during December. to Maraua, they began more offensive duties such g. escorting such units as $0 Stormo Assalto, as as ground strafi well as intercepts. February 1941 found them equipping their G ‘50s with sand filters, which only partly cured the wear and tear problems. 20 March through to June saw bomber escort duties to 98 Gruppo's BR 20s and Ju 875 of Italian and German units. These missions flew over the Tobruk, Sollum and Sidi Barrani areas. The last was an escort 10 Tobruk and back on 16 July. On the 22nd, they returned to Italy After several months in limbo, 152 sq was sent to Gorizia to trainon the Re 2001 in January 1942. They rejoined the Gruppo in April, where it had reformed in March at Ciampino. 151 sq did not reform. The pilots of 152 sq introduced 150 and 358 sq to their new aircraft Alter numerous delays the unit finally moved to Sicily with 18 Re 2001s. It was the first unit to use these aircraft in combat, making its debut over Malta, A busy time was had with bomber ‘escorts, intercepts and fighter sweeps over and around Malta. For ‘example, on 14 June 17 Re 2001s escorting $ 79s against the Harpoon convoy, bound for Malta, claimed seven intercepting Hurricanes! Using bases in Sardinia, Pantelleria, and Sicily, by 13 August they still had 19 Re 2001 which returned to Chinisia on that date. ‘On 14 August, a mission gave credability o the fact that German bomber crews often liked to have Italian fighter escorts, Eighteen Re 2001s of this Gruppo, from Pantelleria, with four German Me 109s, escorted three He I torpedo-bombers against the Pedestal convoy. When attacked by Spitfires, three Re 2001s defended the ‘bombers and were all downed. The bombers escaped unharmed, 150 sq was detached to Monserrato in July and on return to Chinisia in August, was disbanded the next month. By 1 November, only 21 out of 31 aircraft were serviceable. 358 sq was detached from July to November to Panteleria, then was temporarily disbanded on 11 November, along with the rest of the Gruppo. In the spring of 1943, the Gruppo reassembled with HQ at Genova, becoming 2 Gruppo Intercettori, with about 15 Re 2001s and CR'42s. On 9 May 156 sq Intercettori was formed, and on 1 July replaced the now disbanded 358 sq at Albenga. It was now renumbered as 358 sq! The crews of the old 358 sq were spread through the other Squadra | Intercettori units and the aireraft went to 160 Gruppo. During May, the Gruppo collaborated with 8 Gruppo in aerial bombing trials. On 26 May, 152 sq was detached to Sarzana, and 358 sq to Albenga, to defend la Spezia and Genova areas. They’ replaced the Sezioni Intercettori which were disbanded at those bases on 23 May. Between 21 June and II July, 338 sq was at Sarzana. 152 sq received four cannon-armed Re 2001s in June. By July. the unit also used Venegono and had received a few D 5206 to help in day and night defence. By I September there were only six Re 2001s and 11 CR42s on strength, 3 Gruppo CT Squadriglie 153, 154, 155 Stormo 6 ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE OUTIES ‘dun 1940 Monserato Soria CR32—ASAR_ OF, TG, AE, CE cae 24.ui 1941 Sorman ——‘Tepoitan GRAZ Sga5_ GE, OF. NF. GA Dec 1041 Arar ‘Tpoltan CR2—-Sye5_ OF, GA an 1912 ElMerduma Trpoitan CR42_—Sqa5_ OF. GA Zan 1942 SdiOma Egypt GRA_—«Sua5_ OF. GA Fed 1942 Sengas K2 Grenaca OR42 Sua. CE, NF OF, GA May 1942 BenghasiK3 Crenaca CR42 Sua OF 25 May 1942 Mauda Grenalea CRA Sqa5_ GR, OF ‘4dun 1942 Camping tay M200 Sua3_ TG Sop 1942. Levee tay NC 200 Sad CE 11ov 1982 Chins Sey MC 200 ASIC._CE, AE, OF May 1983, Sey Me 1096 ASIC TE 12dun 1943 Siciy Me 1096 ASIC. T6, OF 16.ul 1943 Palermo Sieily Me 1096 ASC iT 16.ui 1943 Litora’ tay, e086 Sqa3_ TS Zhi 1843 Torto-Casele aly Me 1096 Sqa_OF From | June 1940, 155 sq was detached to Alghero under training and also to defend Cagliari port and escort 19 Gruppo on se ssces, The first operation was on 16 June, escorting Breda 88st Corsica. At this time 3 Gruppo had 28 CR'32s and three Ca 133s. On 9 August, two pilots of 153 sq downed a French LeoHl 470 fyingboat. In November the Gruppo joined in the battle of Capo ‘eulada, escorting bombers and ships, and making day intercepts, Ir was also involved in training with the Regia Marina units. From Januaty 1941, the CR 32 was gradually replaced by the (CR 42. The older aircraft ceased operations around April. A G 50 B two-seater trainer arrived that month, with the intention of ‘converting the pilots o the G SO bis. Lack of available numbers of the latter type meant the unit remained on CR 42s. ‘On 25 May 135 sq left Alghero for Roma-Lecce-Rodi-Aleppo- Moss to help the Iraqi revolt, On 6 June it returned to Rodi and was renumbered as 164 sq, ‘With a new 155 sq formed on 14 July, the Gruppo moved 10 days later to the Libyan front, having left its aircraft to 24 Gruppo in Sardinia, On arrival they received 12 CR 42s from 150 Gruppo who were returning to Italy. There followed a period of ground Strafing, night fighting, convoy escorts and defence of Tripoli port. On 28 December Ara Fileni and Bir el Mediuna were used to help protect German forces from approaching Allied units. 154 sq moved to Martuba in March, followed in May by the rest of the Gruppo. In June 1942, the unit returned to Taly to rest and re-equip with MC 200s and replacement pilots after 11 months of operations. In September 153 sq was detached to Reggio Calabria. The whole unit now began escorting convoys. ‘The unit reunited in November at Chinisia, to escort ships and aerial transports reinforcing Tunisia. Bases in Pantelleria and ‘Tunisia were used in a shuttle effect. In January, 154 sq went to Reggio Calabria for convoy escort duties off Calabria, ‘After the Axis withdrawal from Africa, the unit received Me 109Gs in June, having lost many aircraft to Allied bombing in May. With more losses, in the air and on the ground, the unit retired to Raly to re-equip with new Me 109s, On7 September they still awaited full equipment. Ex-Vuposlaw Fizr pressed into service with 39.9, § Gr, at Seutari during the summer of 1942, The wnit’s Ro 375 make up the rest ofthe line-up. 4 Gruppo BT Squadriglie 14, 15 Stormo 7 ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES 10 Jun 1940 Lonate Pozzo tay «BRIO. Sqat OB. Jw 1941 Camen hay = SBA Saat TG BO pr $942 Scicca Sely $84 ASIC 08, AN ‘og 1942 Castehetrano Sicly «$84 ASIC— NB’ DB, AN (Oct 1942 LonatePozzolo tay) = $84 Sqat TS: This unit received the BR 20 in 1936. After a tour in Africa, they returned home before the war started. BR 20 Ms arrived in the Spring of 1940. On 12 June they began attacks on southern France. The next day they were intercepted by the D 520s of GC 111/6 over Toulon. The CR 42 escort defended them well By 29 July 1941, they were re-equipping at Cameri with S84s. These new aircraft were difficult o train on. However, the unit was declared operational in April 1942 and moved to Sicily. Operations began against Malta and its shipping routes, On 7 May the unit became part ofthe Aerosilurante, but did not use the Savioas as torpedo-bombers. They reverted to the Bombarda- ‘mento Terreste title on I October. From July to August they made high level escorted raids over Malta, as well as operations against shipping supplying Malta Returning to Italy the unit remained in training until disbanded con 15 June 1943, 4 bis Gruppo BT ‘Squadriglie 14, 15 Stormo Auto ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES 10.Jun 1940 Scende K91 Ethiia S81 20! 0B Jul 1940 Ghinle—Etiopa «S81 201 0B ug 1940 OreDaa —Eniopia «S81 AO; 8, NB 87 Mar 1941 Adds Abeba Eiopin $79, sO 08 ‘The war started on 13 June with four out of 12 § 81 raiding Aden. One was shot down by four Gladiators of 94 sq, one by AA. and ‘one crashed from technical trouble. Not a good start! On 20 July the remaining nine aircraft were at Ghiniele, for operations against British Somaliland. A month later they were switched from Dire aua to Sciasciamanna. ‘On 18 November, 15 sq was detached to Giggiga for night bombing sorties over Aden. Four days later, 14 sq converted to S 79s, passing its surviving S 81s to 15 sq. On 3 December, two § 79s moved to Gura for operations in the north. By 30th March 1941, the situation had so worsened thatthe unit disbanded and its remaining aircraft went to 44 Gruppo, 5 Gruppo OA Squadriglie 31, 39, 40 Stormo 19 ARRWAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES 10Jun 1940 Venaria Reale aly fos7 = SqatTG.AR et 1940 BarPaese aly fos? = AT. TG 18am 1941 Devo Abana 037 AALB AR or 1941 Bert Abia R037 ALB AR 21 May 1941 Sut Abana R037 AALB AG shi 1982 Zara Yoposiaia R037 MLB AG Fi cain 1 Sep 1912 Lucca aly Cast Saad TG Cais Sep 192 Mostar Yuoosavia Ca3tt ALB AG casi Gattis a6 ——————— The squdriglicbeganthe war under the command of 6 Armata 31 ). 1 CorpodArmata 39 sq) and TV Corpo J Armata 40 sq) The eat day 51 and 40 sq joined 39 5 under 1 Corp for operons han France On 4 Je 3 wa empray asin 7 Gruppo mith the Corpo d’Armata Alpine ST ana 39 sq moved to Bar fraction over the Greck font. 405q remained at Venaria Reale, becoming Autonom snd transferingto Sicily. Moving forward to Devoli with 18 Ro 37s, the unit began ‘operations on 20 January 1941. Their reece missions were often escorted by the G 50s of 154 Gruppo. In April they moved base again, to cover the ground forces advancing into Yugoslavia, From July, still with 17 Ro 37s, they carried out ami-partisan duties in the Montenegro area. During the Summer of 1942 they added some ex-Yugoslavian Rogozarski Fizir biplanes to their operational strength. 31 sq was replaced by 36:5q, but the latter left to join 20 Stormo on 26 August. A Ca I was aitached in July '39'sq passed to 70 Gruppo on I September and the Gruppo was, repatriated to Italy, retraining on the Ca 311 and Ca 314. Some of | these types may have been used from July. On 2 September the unit came under 21 Stormo and received 120 and 121 sq. Each squadriglia had a Ca 164 and a Ca 111 bis for liaison duties, 128 sq Joined in March, at Zara, followed by 33 sq at Mostar in early June. 120 sq was at Mostar until early July, then moved to Ronchi, with a section at Ghedi. They then went to Lavariano by 23 July and disbanded on 16 August. 121 and 128 sq were at Zara. The former left for 68 Gruppo in late August. By 7 September the Gruppo had three Ca 311s and 12 Ca 314s operational. 6 Gruppo CT Squadriglie 79, 81, 88 Stormo Auto ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES 3Jun 1940 Fontaarossa Sicly MC 200 $a TG, OF. AE 21 Jun 1941 Campoformido tay’ MC 202 -Sqa2 TS 25Nov 1941 Manuba— Crenaca C202 SeaS OF 120ec 1981 Dema Chenaica MC-200 SaS OF 180Dec 1941 Sidi Magnum — Cirenaica MC 202 Sea OF 20 Der 1941 EMerduma —Tripoitan MC 202 SaaS OF 22 Dec 1941 Tamet Trpoltan NC 202 Sea OF dan 1942 ra fieni ——Trgoitan MC 202 qa OF, AR 29 Jan 1042 Agodadia —Crenaica “C202 SaaS OF Feb 1942 Benghasik3 Grenaica MC202 qa. TG, OF Mar 1942 Martuba ”Grenaica MC 202 Sqa5. AE. OF, AR dun 1942 Campotormico? tay MC202Saa2- TC Dec 1912 MarganaPantolera C202 ASIC. OF. AE, CE, GA, ani san 1943. Sciacca Sicily e202 ASIC OF Mc 205 v 24 Jan 1943 Stax Tusa C202 ATUN DF, AE 5 Mar 1943 Gabes Tunsa C202 Sqa5 DF. AE Mar 1943 Lonate Pozolo aly MC205V. Sqat TG Aor 1913 Pantera Parla MC205V ASIC. OF, CE, AE May 1943 Catania Sicly MC205V ASIC OF 25 Jun 1943 Tovino-Casele aly, §—MC205V Sqat OF 2. 1943 Osapo0 tty ——MC205V. Sqa2 OF 30 Jul 1943. Ronchi Ntly ——MC205V. Sqa2 OF This was the Fist unit o receive the MC 200 Saeta, taking 29 on chatge by" November 1939." Aer two fatal crashes. and humerous technical problems with the Series. they were all sounded for inspection. Thus the unit did not begin operations tnt September 1940. At the endo July, they joined I Stormo und arried out thei first operation on 15 September with later Series reraft escorting 1u 87+ of 96 Gruppo over Malta. On 1 November {wo Macchs downed a Sunderland fyingboat off Augusta, Inthe Winer asecton was detached to Reggio Calabria for armed recces ‘ver the Mesaina Strait. In early 1541 the unt was involved in ‘ediam and high level sweeps over Malta ‘They tied outa last One Re 2000 in March at Catania. The comparative comments With the MC 200 were not offically recorded Returning to aly to re-equp with MC 202s, six being received on 15 October, they prepared forte Libyan font Tropica iter sera the newfie “After aceimatising, the nit began fighter sweeps in Januar 192 with Series area, Withdrawing inthe Spring to Benghas fora rest and local defence duties, they soon launched back into the fight by March. Escorts, sweeps and intercepts were made over the Gambut, Tobruk, and Bir Hacheim areas until they were recalled to Maly in June. With the campaign for Tunisia under way, the unit was sent t0 Pantelleria, with two squadriglie detached to Sfax in northern Tunisia. Operations were carried out, strafing the invasion fleets off the Tunisian coast, and escorting the sea and air traffic between Sicily and Tunisia. By 21 February 1943 the unit was split between Sfax (79 sq), Achichina (81 sq) and Gammart (88 sq). The latter Squadriglia flew in to that base on 3 February with nine fighter, The first MC20S V Veltros were received in Italy during this period, when 79 sq arrived at Sciacca, At the end of March the Gruppo returned to Italy to fully equip with the new fighter. They rejoined 1 Stormo, ‘On rejoining the fray over Pantelleria, they were the main defence unit, maintaining air superiority through April and May. On 20 April 32 MC 205 Vs of 1 Stormo claimed 18 out of 80 Spitfires and P 386 for the loss of one! By June they were back in the homeland, defending northern Italy with their few remaining airworthy fighters. On 7 September they had no serviceable aircraft left, 7 Gruppo Comb ‘Squadriglie 76, 86, 98 Stormo 5 ARRIVAL BASE ‘COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES 10Jun 1940 Campigia Naritima tay Breda 88 Sad IT 19Jun 1940 LonatePozzolo tly «Breda 8B Sqa 1 GA hug 1940 Castano Scly Breda BE Squ2 IT Aug 1940 Castetbento —Tnpoltan Breda BB Sqa5. GA Sep 1840 Dera Grenaica Breda 88 SaaS GA ‘Sep 1940 Benina Cronica Breda 88 Sqa5 OF 16Nov 1940 Trewso Nay MC200 $9216, DF, AE 25 May 1941. Comso Scly 200 ASIC OF sun 1941 Catania Scly C200 ASIC OF, AE ‘un 1941 Pantera Pantoleia C200 ASIC. AE, CE, AN ‘un 1942 Reggio Calabria tay” MC-200 ASIC AE Ce’ ul 1942 Pantelera”— Panteleia MG200 ASIC. CE Sul 1942 Araxos Greece C200 AGRE CE, DF, AE, NF (OR @2 cH Sep 1942 Crone tly MC202Sqa TS. OF 25Mar 1949 Elvamma Tunisia MG202SqaS_ OF, AE, GA ‘Apr 1943 LaFauconnerie Tunisia C202 Squ5 OF. AE WOApr 1943 Enitavile Tunisia «M202 SaaS AE ‘SMay 1949 Soliman Tunisia» MC 202 SquS AE AOMay 1943 Castevetrano Sicly M0202 ASIC. OF On 6 May 1939 5 Stormo received the Breda 88 at Lonate Pozzolo, n.11 June 1940, this Gruppo became Autonomo. The unit moved to Squadra 1 control, for operations over the French Alps. They rejoined 5 Stormo on 13 July, after ying inthe final phase of the French campaign, ‘On 9 August they left the Stormo again and moved to Libya to support the advance on Sidi Barrani. The sand filters added to the 432 Bredas slowed them down and caused engine overheating, thus, handicapping further an already underpowered aircraft, The unit did operate over the Sidi Barrani area, but with limited results, ‘They were soon seconded 1 local defence duties by mid- September. 76 sq was at NI.86 sq at Benina, and 98 sq at T2. When the Gruppo returned totaly the Bredas were lft behind as lecoys on various bases. In March 1941 the unit joined $4 Stormo, re-equipping with the MC 200 fighter. They then became involved in operations against ‘Yugoslavia, Two months later they were in Sicily, protecting shipping, escorting bombers over Malta and on local defence duties In early 1942 a detachment was sent to Palermo. In June, the Gruppo was escorting bombers over Malta again, followed by convoy escorts in July. 76 sq stayed in Pantelleia until early gust on escort ties ‘ioving to Greece, and adding CR 42 CNs for night fighting. ney resumed escorting ships and bombers and local defence fuisols 76sq as sil in Pantlleria and acquired some MC 2035, find CR 42s by August e-equipping with MC 202s in ttaly, the Gruppo was thrown info action in Tunisia from March 1943, Detachments were sent to K'sb and K-41 Landing Grounds. They were the lax Taian uni to Ihave the African continent, By 18 Nay they had no airraft or ‘Sos left and were disbanded onthe 27th 8 Gruppo CT Squadriglie 92, 93, 94 Stormo 2 ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE OUTIES 3.dun 1940 TobrukT2 Cienaica OR32 LIB. OF, CE, AE cre 22. 1940 Beta Chenaca CRA Sea TG 20 Aug 1940 Dera Crenaca OR42 SaaS OF 5 Sep 1940 Ganbut Crenaca R42 Sqa5_DF.AR 125% 1940 Bladen Cremaca CRA Sqa5_ OF 49Sap 1940 adie Menastr Cremaca CR42 —Sqa5_ OF. AE 150e 1940. Berka Grenaca CR42 SaaS IT 20Dee 1940 Mirafon ——ftdy——« GRAZ Saat TG. 20.Jan 1941 TotnoCasele tay GRAZ Sqat TG. OF. NF uc 200 ‘Apr 1941 ria Manduria tay GRAZ Sad OF, NF wc 200 May 1941 Tonno-Casele tay NMC 200 Sat” F, NF, CE cna Nc 202 25Nov 1961 BenghasiK3 —Crenaica NC 200 SqaS_ DF, AR 20000 1941 Agadabia —-Crenaica NC 200 SqaS_ DF 250ec 1981 EnNofia —-—‘Trgoltan MC-200 qa DF, AR shan 1942 Agha Crenaica C200 Sq OF Feb 1942 Benghasik3 Crenaca MC200 Sq25 DF. CE 11 May 1942 MartubaS——Crenaica MC 200 Sa AE, AR, GA, DF 24 Jun 1942 AinelGuzala Granaica MC200 qa 1G, CE. AE ‘Sul 1942 AbuHaggag — Egypt MC 200 Sqa5_AE_CE_DF,GA 1S0c 1942 BuAMU —Crevaca MC 200 Saa5_CE_DF Nov 1942 BenghasiK3 Grenaca MC-200 qa CE, DF 15Nov 1942 EnNotla Tipotan C200 Sqa5_CE DF, GA 17Now 1942 Gtindel Tipotan C200 S925. GA 7 Dec 1942 Tavorga -«‘Tpolian C200 SaaS IT 7°0ec 1942 Murata ‘Trpoltan MC200 qa IT 100ee 1942 Campotormido tay MC 200 Sqa2 OF 25 May 1943 Sarana ay C200 -$qa3_DF. CE 5 Aug 1943 Capua Nay = C200. Saad. OF 7 Aug 1943 Sarzana tay C200 $4a3_DF, CE Sep 1943 Litaria tay C200 Sqa3 DF. CE ‘The first operation occurred on 11 June 1940, when three CR 32s ‘Scrambled over base 10 4000 metres. Poor maintenance and supply ‘meant limited use could be made of Tobruk T 2. However, it was useful for protecting the port and T 3 base. Two Blenhecims were claimed over T 3 on the 11th. The Gruppo made 96 sorties that sy. On 14 June six CR 32s escorted § 81 bombers over the front and claimed three Gladiators for the loss of one CR 32. During this Period, the unit was active over Sidi Barrani, Mersa Bagush and ‘coastal areas. A Sunderland was downed on 21 June. The next day the first nine CR 42s arrived from Tripoli and Joined 94 sq. By late June sand was causing many engine and ‘weapon problems. On 2 July the CR 32s ceased operations and more CR 42s arrived. The later claimed another Sunderland on 3 July near Bardia. Escorts to Ro 37s began over the Sollurm area, Four CR 42s were lost in a dogfight over Menastir with six Gladiators on 4 July. By 7 July, all aircraft were non-operational for maintenance work, resuming action two days later. On 22 July, eight aircraft were passed to 13 Gruppo and the remaining 11 moved to Berka for re-equipment, Sand filters were applied in ate August. ‘A section was detached to Derna and Tobruk T 4 for local defence. During the advance on Sidi Barrani, the unit patrolled ‘over the Axis troops. Three fighters were detached to Tmimi on 18 September, claiming five out of nine Blenheims in one raid. Two days later the Gruppo claimed a Sunderland and a Blenheim. as well as successfully escorting $ 79s over Marsa Matruh. October saw intercepts and bomber escorts in the Sollum area. A Lysander and a Wellington were claimed during the month. November found the unit protecting the supply routes and frontline troops in the Sidi Barrani area. On 7 December they strafed Bir Quatrani during a sandstorm, Operations were reduced while the storm blew itself out after two days. The first Hurricanes were met on 11 December ~ one CR 42 lost. By the 14th, only one fighter was still $0 it was passed to 13 Gruppo and the unit returned to Picking up replacement crews at Mirafiori; on 25 January 1941 they received CR 42s from 157 Gruppo for the day and night defence of Milano, Torino and Genova. The first MC 300s arrived ‘on 23 February and sections were detached to Albenga, Piacenza and Novi Ligure. During April the unit carried out defensive patrols in support of the Yugoslav campaign. The following month sections were sent to Novi Ligure, for naval escort and local defence. On 21 August pilots went to Venegono to train on the MC 202. The first was received on 7 October. However, it was passed to I Stormo on 1S ‘October and the unit became fully equipped with MC 200s. Resuming operations on 18 December, they protected the retiring troops, and defended Benghasi port and its shipping. In May 1942, they began supporting the new offensive with armed recces, ground strafing, bomber escorts and local defence. Apart from 6 and 7 June, when sandstorms curtailed operations, life was hectic. On 24 June the unit moved to Gazala for a rest and refit, detaching sections to Derna, Benghasi and El Ftehja for bomber ‘and convoy escorts, On 29 June the Cape Governor was escorted during his tour. In late July individual squadriglie, operating from Sidi Barrani, protected convoys travelling between there and ‘Marsa Matruh, In August the aircraft received bombracks. There were several fights with Beaufighters atiacking ships in the Tobruk area at this time. On 4 September the fighter-bombers were first used. in a ‘night action against 10 Indian Div and NZ Div west of El Mreit, By 1 October there were 16 out of 21 MC 200s serviceable. Clashes with Beaufighters, Marylands, Bostons and Halifaxes, ‘occurred in the sea area off Tobruk. (On 4 November the unit passed its aircraft to 13 Gruppo and collected more from 150 Gruppo at Benghasi. 94 sq was detached to Sidi Barrani between 1 and 6 November. The Gruppo protected Benghasi port against heavy bomber raids, then carried out fighter-bomber sorties in the Agedabia and El Akmar areas. By 3 December only three aircraft were serviceable out of 26. Four days later they were passed to 13 Gruppo and the erews flew to Italy in a $ 82. "New MC 200s arrived in January 1943 for the defence of the Valle Padana area, 92 and 94 sq moved to Caselle and 93 sq to Albenga. 92 sq joined 93 sq on 15 February. During January and February the pilots ferried D 520s from France to Italy. In March they experimented with air to air bombing. By May it was fully realised that the MC 200 was proving inadequate for bringing down four-engined bombers, due to poor armament, low speed ‘advantage and low numbers intercepting ‘On 26 May the Gruppo reunited at Sarzana and protected La Spezia naval base and its shipping. Some Re 2001s may have been used at this time, Battles were fought with B 24s, B 17s, Balti- mores and Beaufighters. A B 17 was claimed west of Capo Corso fon 5 June, and a Beaufighter near Gorgona on the 28th. The Re 2001sand D 520s were notaseffective as hoped, due to poor radio ‘communications and training. In July 94 sq was detached to ‘Meiato, with 12 MC 200s, for the defence of Livorno, followed by naval escort duties. 2 Stormo disbanded on 10 August, and the Gruppo became Autonomo, On the 21st a section of four MC 200s went to Grottaglie, to defend Taranto. The Gruppo’s last operation was on 3 September, when a B 17 was claimed over Pisa,9 Gruppo CT ‘Squadriglie 73, 96, 97 Stormo 4 ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES 10.un 1940 Goria tay RA Sat 16 un 1940 Torno-Miaion May CRA Sqa} AE, AR 1 ul 1940 Comiso Sialy — GRA2_Sqa2 AE AR 11 dul 1940 Berka Crenaica OR LIB. TG ‘hug 1940 Bonghasi Gremica R42 SqaS OF Sep 1940 ElAdem —Cenaica CRA2_ —Sqa5. DF, AE 25 Dec 1840 Gore tay MC200 Saaz. Te Mar 1941 Brings tay M200 Sad. AR, AE Apr 1941 Gora ay C200 Sqa2 AR, AE Aor 1941. Bar ay C200. Sqad IT Jul 1941. Goria ay = MC 202 -Sqa2Te ‘Sep 1941 Ciampino aly MC202 Saad OF 29 Sep 1841 Comso Siely MC202_ ASIC. AR, AE, GA 25 Nov 1941 Martuba ——Grenaea MG 202 SnaS OF 120ec 1941 Bare Gemsica C202 SaaS OF 20°Dec 1841 ElMerdume —Tipotan MG202 Sea. OF 22 dec 1841. Tamet Trpoltan MC202 SaaS OF Dec 1941 Gunza? tay M202 Sa? TG 18.Ape 1942 Castewetrano Sly M202 ASIC. AR, AE ‘Apr 1942 Campotormido tly MC202 Sqa2_ TG 24 May 1942 Martuta4” Grenaica MC 202 SqaS OF, AR 24 Jun 1942 SidiBarani — Egyet = MC 202 SS AR 30 Wun 1942 Fula Sud Egypt = ME202«SqaS. ‘OF, AR, GA, AE 30 Oct 1942 AbuSmet Egypt C202 Sqa5_ IT ‘Nov 1842 Maruba 4 Grenaica MC202 Sqa5_ TG, OF 3Nov 1942 BenghasiK3 Girenaica M202 Sqa5 OF 5 Nov 1942 Avalon) Tripltan C202 Sqa5_ AE, AR, OF 6 Dec 1942 Msuaia —Trpoltan M202 Sma IT Der 1942 Casteento Tigoltan MC 202 Sqa5_ DF, AE, CE 16 lan 1943 Miano‘Bresso Maly MC202Sqat TG. CE May 1943 Ciampino Sud tay = MC202_Sqa3_ OF Mc205 v Jun 1949 Furbara tay M0202 Saa3 OF 9.4m 1943 Ciampino Sud ay MC 202 qa OF “dan 1983 Gerba Sely MC 202 ASICTG, OF Me 109 6 21 Jun 1943. Catania Sely C202" ASC OF Oui 1943 Palermo = Sey = MC202 ASIC IT 14.ul 1989 Crowne fay) MG202_ Sad DF 1Gdul 1943 Castovilai aly MG205V. Sya4_ TG, OF 27 hug 1948 Gioia delCote Italy = MC205V Sqad OF es Although the first unit to receive the new MC 200 in 1940, the pilots preferred their CR 42 biplanes. So, they made a swap with Stormo, who were delighted to accept the latest aircraft. The Gruppo moved 10 Mirafiori shortly before war broke out and ‘began operations against France by patrolling the Alpine border. ‘After the French surrender, they flew escort 0 bombers over Malta, then moved on to the Libyan front. During the British counter-offensive in late 1940, this unit suffered heavy losses to action and environment. By the end of the year, they were re- ‘equipping in Italy, with the once-rejected MC 200. In March, 73 sq moved to Brindisi, to support the Greek campaign. The next month all three squadriglie joined operations against Yugoslavia, ‘One squadriglia was detached to Alture di Pola By July they were re-equipping again, this time with the excellent MC 202. In late September the unit was testing their new aircraft inthe skies over Malta. On 25 November 96 and 97 sq transferred to Libya to check-out their non-tropical fighters in. desert conditions. 73 sq remained in Sicily and began a career of photo- reconaissance. Its MC 202s were given cameras, but kept their ‘weaponry, and were known to dogfight as much as their fellow squadrighie. The other two squadriglie returned to Sicily, having passed their aircraft to 1 Stormo. Then the whole Gruppo retired to Italy to receive new MC 202s with sand filters, ‘On 26 May 1942 the freshly equipped unit let for a second tour of the desert. With air superiority their main role, they effectively supported the advance to El Alamein. In the period leading to the Allied onslaught, the unit suffered losses to ground-strafing Fighters and the bombing of their bases. In late October they passed their 10 surviving Macchis to 3 Stormo at Abu Smeit. Picking up 28 brand new MC 202s at Martuba, they returned to the front once more. However, by December they were hack at Castelbenito, defending Tripoli port Bad weather and lack of fuel reduced the number of sorties. The ‘next month they once again handed their aircraft to 3 Stormo, and Teft for Tay. With no new fighters immediately available, the pilots were used to ferry aircrat to operational units. Consideration was given to re-equipping with the D 520! During May 1943, some MC 205 Vs joined the trickle of MC 202s arriving at the unit. They defended Rome for the next two months, having 21 MC 202s on strength by 9 June. The replacements arrived from Furbara and Cerveteri By late June they were training in Sicily, with 18 Me 109 Gs, as well as conducting operations in the surrounding waters, Finocchiara and San Salvadore were used as forward strips during this time. 73 sq was detached to Reggio Calabria with six MC 202s and two borrowed MC 205 Vs, moving on to Sigonella in July. After trying to stem the Allied advance on Sicily. the unit returned to lialy where they received the latest MC 203 Vs. A section was detached to Pescara in mid-August. By 7 September the unit had only nine fighters left on operations 10 Gruppo CT Squadriglie 84, 90, 91 Stormo 4 ARRIVAL BASE ‘COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES WOJun 1940 TobukT2 —Crenaea R42 ALI OF ‘dun 1840 Berina Grenaca CR? ALB OF sion 1940 Berea Greraca CR42 ALB OF ‘Aug 1940 BirelGooi —Genaca CR42_—“Sqa5 DF Sep 1940 1 Adem Greraca CR42 qa OF, AE Sep 1840 Bera Grenaca CR42 SaaS OF AE 6 Jan 1941 Gora fay MC200 Sqaz TC pr 1941, oren tay MC 200 Sqa2 AE, AR 16.un 1981 Trapani Sely C200 ASIC IT Sop 1941 Comisa Scly MC200 ASIC AE, GA, AR Nov 1941 Chia Sely M0200 ASIC. OF Dec 1941 Gorza tay’ MC 202 Sqa2 TE SApr 1912 Sciacca Scly C202 ASIC AE, AR ‘Apr 1942 Campoformido aly, MC 202 Sqa2 TG, OF 24 May 1942 Maruba 4" Girenaca NC 202 Sqa5 DF. AR 26 Jun 1942 SiiBarani Egypt MC202 aa AR, DF 30 Jun 1942 Fura Nocd Egypt NC 202 Sua OF. AR, GA. AE 3.Ju 1942 Mumin Busok Egypt C202 Sea OF 18. 1942 Fula Sud” Egypt = MC202 Sea OF 90 Oct 1942 AbuSmet Egypt MC 202 Sca5 IT ‘Nov 1942 Maruba4 Crenaiea MC202 Sea. TG, OF 13 Nov 1842 Benghasik3 —Crenaca MC202 Sea OF S5Nov 1942 AraFieni ——Tigoltan C202 Sea AE, AR, OF 1ODec 1942 Ciampino aly M202 Sea AE, OF May 1083 Furbaa Maly M200 Sea TG. OF NC 205 v 4 Jun 1943 Cenete tly MC-202 Sa OF No 205 v 8.Jun 1943 Ciampino ——tly-—MC202 Sea OF MG 205 v Me 108 6 21 Jun 1943 Catania Sigonela Sicly M202 ASIC OF Mc205 v 9.4! 1983 Palermo Sely M202 ASIC IT MG205 v 14.ul 1983 Crotone Italy MC 205.V- Sead OF 24.Jul 1943 Ciampino aly MC 205 Saa3 TG, OF ‘Aug 1943 Castovllai aly MC 205V Sqa4 OF Although the first of the Stormi to receive the new MC 200 in 1940, the pilots preferred their biplane fighters. So they made a swap with I Stormo, who were delighted to accept the latest aircraft. The CR 42 had first been received in September 1939. ‘The unit maintained patrols on the Egyptian border, and then moved to support the advance on Sidi Barrani in September During the British counter-offensive in late 1940, they suffered heavy losses to action andthe environment. By early January they Note re equipping in Ktaly with the once rejected MC 200, perations were carried out against Yugoslavia in April, with 23arerfton strength. Two months later the uit was in Sicily. Sperating over Malta andthe Sicilian Canal. 91 sq was intially Buached to Palermo. By the end of 1941, they had reequipped ‘Sth MC 202s and retumed to Skil in April for two weeks Having tested thelr new aircraft in action, they returned to Italy to'reveive the same type, but with sand fiers. On 26 May 1942 they let fora second tour ofthe desert, With air superiority thee tnain toe, they effectively supported the advance to El Alamein Inthe period before the Allied onslaught, the unit suffered losses {0 grovnd siraing fighters. Damage to their bases also reduced their esponse to enemy attacks, Nevertheless, thei fighter sweeps {sed the Allies some problems, In ate October they passed thei SGreiving MC 202s to 8 Slormo at Abu Smit. Picking up brand how Macchis at Martuba, they returned to the front in time t© over the retreat. In December they handed their airraft to 9 Gruppo and returned to aly ‘While waiting for replacement aircraft, the pilots were used to fen other aireraft to operational unit, By April 1943 some MC 205 Vs were added to the MC 202s, followed by a few Me 109 Gs inJune. 90 sq defended Naples fom Capua in April and May. 91 {was detached to Furbara, with eight MC 2026 uni the end of Sine, when it moved to Sigonela. The other squadsiglie had 12 MC 202s and two Me 109 Ge operational st Ciampino, On the Bord. 10 MC 202s were detached to Reggio Calabria. By late June the whole unit moved to Sicily to carry out defensive operations over the iland. 84 sq was at Catania by the 35th. After suffering losses during the Allied invasion, they returned to the mainland. A section was detached to Pescara in {gust By 7 September they had only eight MC 205 Vs left on ‘operations, 11 Gruppo BT Squadriglie 1, 4 Stormo 13 ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE OUTIES On 1940 Placenza tay BRZD_— Sq t_08, TS. 1340 Melsroecn Begum = BR2D_— ANB 1941 Pacewa tay «RZD Saat TG 1941 Gioia del Cole ay = BRD qa 8, AR faut Paces may BAZD.— Saat TG 1341 Derma Grenaca R20 «SaaS OB, AN i941 ace Grenaca 8R20 SaaS OB 191i Misuraa—‘TrpeanBR2D-— SaaS OB 1912 BrDutan Troon BR2D_— SaaS OB 192 Piacenza? tay a3 Seat 1G 4012 Reggotmila tay Ca314 Saaz TG ca3i3 sun 1942 Manduia May R31 Sgn Jon 1943 Treviso Nay «RAEN Sqa2_ TE ‘The BR 20 was received in December 1936 and when the BR 20M arrived, training began with the crews from 7 Stormo at Cameri in 1940, This base and San Damiano were used for training. Afier operating over southern France, they became part of the expedition to Belgium, for operations over England. The first mission was on 24 October, against Harwich. Sixteen BR 20 Ms from both 13 and 4 Stormo participated, losing two aircraft in the bad weather over Belgium. Night raids were carried out by this unit on Harwich and Ipswich when weather permitted. In January they returned to Italy, via Monaco and Bolzano. One squadriglia flew direct to Piacenza. They then joined in the end of the Greek campaign and the Yugoslav offensive. After more training and a rest, they moved to Libya for operations over Tobruk. A low serviceability resulted from the sand affecting engine, weapon, and hydraulic parts. On 8 April the unit returned 10 Italy for retraining in the maritime escort role. Moving to Manduria, they patrolled the see lanes between Italy and Greece. The unit changed roles from ‘Combattimento to Intereettori when 13 Stormo disbanded on 10 January 1943, The Gruppo disbanded on 28 August. Five Breda 655 of 159 sq, 12 Gr, and a Ca 310, left at Berka during the British advance in 1940, Note the neat rows of bullet hoes in the nearest aircraft to render it useless. 12 Gruppo Assalto Squadriglie 159, 160 Stormo 50 AnpiviL “BASE «COUNTRY. AIRCRAFT. ZONE OUTIES "Ou 1940 SrmanTpoltan C2310 ALBA oman hae Brees oun 198 EAdem —Orenaca ORB. ALB GA Breda 6s Sep 1840 Tabu T2 creme GRE SOLS GA Bred 65 att ec 180 ELAden Geena GRD SqaS GA Ses Jon 1841 BengasiCheaica GRABS 7 Bree 65 te 1041 ty G50 Sm TS Dee ISH Casteenio frgotun G50 SqaS.GA.DF.CE Mey 1843. Seoeee Sty 200 ASC) OF Ce AR aiMlay 183 Goseetano Seiy MCAD. ASC—OF- EAR weane trae ——————— Starting with 24 ex-Hungarian order Ca 310s, the unit realised these were inadequate forthe approaching offensive. So, they re- quipped from 21 June, with Breda 65 A 80s (159 sq) and CR 32s, {eS The former were not much better. but were all the Industy could immediately offer as am assault plane. The fighters tere fied ith bomb racks to increase their effectiveness. ‘On 11 June 159 sq was detached to Tobruk T 2 with seven Cca'310s for ground stating and recce duties. They strafed enemy troops and armoured vehicles over the next few days, but the aircraft sulfered heavily from the return Tre the sand and the Weather” By October the whole unit was. at Tobruk, having Covered the advance to Sidi Barra. Four Ro Sls were used By 159 sq for focal day and ight defence in August. The unit had feted to Benghast by February, having been decimated in the retet Converting to the ground attack version of the G 50, they operated over Libya fora second tour By 28 December 1941 they store the only such typeof unt et in Libya. They then switched to Toca defence and convoy scons, In August 1932, with 159.160 and_ 163 sq as & Gruppo Autonome. they had 18 G 50s at Ce, pattie By May 1943 they were operating around Sicily. sometimes withthe MC 202s of 53 Stormo. The unit disbanded on 26 June 2513 Gruppo CT Squadriglie 77, 78, 82 Stormo 2 ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE oUTIES On 1980 castebento —Tgeltan CRA ALB TG ae 19Jun 1940 TobukT2 —GrenacaCRA2——ALIB__ DF. AE, GA Aug 1940 Beka Grenaca CR® Sans. OF {Sep 1940 Gambut ——Grenaca GRAD San OF,AE,GA 188 1910 Trim Greraca OR@ © Squ5 OF AE, GA Fe 1911 Jew Wy CR SOF sun 1941 Genova? y= OR Sant ANA Oct 1941 TotnoCasete tay C200 Sart TG dan 1912 Campo Sud tay G20 Squ3.F Feb 1942 Casobento —Tapoitan C200 Saas DF Mar 1942 Miswata” —Tepetan C200 SqaS_ CE Apr 1942 BenghasiK3 Grevaea “C200 Stu5) OF Tay 1942 Marubas —Grevaea MC200 —Squ5. OF, AE 2i.un 1912 Amel Gunla —Crovaica MC200 —Squ5 OF 1S.ul 1942 BuAmuG —Grenaca C200 Sq08 OF, CE Mc 202 cree Jul 1982 AowHagoig —Eaypt_—«MEZO0™— Saas GA Sep 1942 Suan Gremaca C200 SaiS DF Nor 1912 BenghasK3 —Grenica ME200 —SanS_DF,GA 13Nov 182 EnNoiia—Tipoltan MC200 qa OF, GA {7 Nov 1912 Ghnge——Tpottan«MC200— a8 OF, GA SONov 1942 Tavoga —‘Tmpoltan MC200— «SaaS GA C202 W7Jan 1943 Soman —‘TgotanMC200-—Sge5 OF, GA zien 193 GitesEst Turse” ME200— TUN GA. OF cane 31 Jan 1943 Ternoasote? tay E200 Sa TC 21eb 1943 Elnenma Turisa —-MC20— Squ5 GA Z5Feb 1943 Palma? Sely” = MO200 «AS GA Nay 1963 Temnodasele tay = E202 Saat OF Osan Jun 1969 Camino tay E202 Sma3_ TG edu 1949 Fun” tay M0202 Sued TG. OF Ju 1963 LoniePoao tay = MG202 Seat TG Osa 31a 1963 Mela tay M202 Saad. TG oat On the eve of war this unit had 1 unserviceable CR 32sand 28 CR 442s. Fully converted to the later, the older types were passed to 50 ‘Stormo in June, For the rest of the year the unit supported operations against Egyptian targets, being especially active over Tobruk. 78 sq remained in defence of Benghast in June. The new year found the unit split into local defence sections ‘around the industrial cities of the north. From June 1941 they tackled units of the Royal Navy operating in the Ligurian Sea, Re-equipping in October. they returned to the African front the following February. They assisted the Axis offensives with ground attacks, intercepts, bombing and troop protection. From Bu Amud they protected Tobruk, using a day section of MC 2 and a night section of CR 42s, as well as their usual MC 200s. On 1 September aircraft from this unit sank the destroyer Zulu and set fire to four MTBs off Tobruk. 82 sq was detached in November {0 Castelbenito for local defence duties Leaving Libya in January 1943, they fought on in southern ‘Tunisia mainly with ground attacks on pursuing Allied troops. 77 land 78 sq used MC 202s, and 82 sq used MC 200s. After heavy losses they passed their surviving aircraft to 3 Stormo and returned to Italy With the situation getting more desperate, they were sent back 10 Tunisia in February for more ground attack sorties. By the 26th only the Nucleo was operational, the main unit having retired with no aircraft lef. During March the pilots ferried aircraft from the factories to ‘operational units. This held up training and prevented a much needed rest. Eventually re-equipping with MC +y joined the interceptor defences of Italy. 358 sq used D 520s on local defence until 20 July, when they passed them to 13 Gruppo. ‘Atthe end of July, 78 and 82 sq moved to Metato with 12 D520 and some MC 202s. On 10 August the unit became Autonome when 2 Stormo disbanded. By 7 September 82 sq was detached to ‘Venatiorta with six out of 10 MC 202s serviceable, while the rest Of the Gruppo was still at Metato. By then there were no D 520s lef. 15 Gruppo OA Squadriglie 32, 125 Stormo 22 ARRIVAL ——BASE—-COUNTAY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES 104un 190 Udine tay cast Smt aR 17Jun 1940 Miao aly cast Sita ‘This unit began the war under 2 Armata control, with 12 aircraft Seven days later they transferred to 4 Armata, for operations against France. 114 sq was at Mirafiori and was temporarily attached to the Gruppo for action before the French armistice The Gruppo and its two squadriglie were disbanded on 25 February 1942, A Ca 311 of 125 sq, 15 Gr, in northern Italy, 1940, The rudder is offset, ec 1941 Ciampino? tay MOO SaaS: TS May 1942 China. = Sely = MG202. ASIC. ALAR 30 Jun 1942 Gela Sely C202. ASIC ALAR Hiov 1942 Castevevann Sely C202» ASIF. DF Mar 1943 Giampino tay «M202 Sa TG oss. May 1943 Chinsia = Siely E202 ASIC OF 655 16 May 1943 Capotera Sardinia MG 202 ASAR_ OF oss. sill 1943 Casa Zeppera Sardinia MC 202 ASAR_ OF 655 31 Ju 1949 Foligno tay, = M202 SF G55 23 Aug 1943s Sarda MG 202, ASA OF 27 Aug 1948 Fog = tay MO 202 Sas OF 655 C205 v [As part of the Rome defences, this unit had four CR 32s a interim nighifighters, plus 25 G 50s for day sorties. On 13 June 1940, the CR 32s were detached to Guidonia, From September the unit joined 56 Stormo, and took 45 G 50s and six Ca 133s to Belgium. Low range capability kept them from being more active in this theatre and several pilots suffered from severe frostbite due to lack of cockpit heating. However, escorts and sweeps were carried out over Ramsgate and Harwich, but without much opposition. The main sweeps were made over Margate and Folkestone by the CR 42s of 18 Gruppo, especially ‘on 23 November. The Germans referred to the unit as 201G 56, After the main CAI units had left for Italy, 352 and 353 sq remained for patrols along the Dutch, Belgian and French coasts as far as Calais, until April With the lalian forces under pressure in Libya, the unit was rushed straight to the front there. It was about this time 351 sq went {fo 155 Gruppo and was replaced by 151 sq. During the Spring of [O41 they protected the troops and supply columns, and made Jocal intercepts. Like most units they suffered from the sand, until filters could be fitted. In July they escorted 209 sq in attacks on Tobruk. For the rest of 1941 they made many armed recces and escorted the dive-bombers, sometimes jointly with the Germans. On 19 November a commando raid on Sidi Rezegh cost them 18 G 50s, and five more on 22 December at Agedabia. With virtually no siroraft left they returned to Italy in the new year “They now rejoined 51 Stormo, which had been disbanded from September 1940 to I January 1942. Receiving the MC 202 in March, the unit was then ordered to Sicily for operations around Malta, starting in June. ‘On 21 March 1943 they were at Ciampino, receiving the third prototype G 55 for operational trials. The unit moved to Sardinia In May, where the G 55 successfully fought in several dogfights. During March the crews complained that the new Macchis needed ‘much modification to make them combat ready. Poor petrol quality and excessive oil loss caused problems. Hydraulic, pneumatic and electrical systems often caught fire. And the aireraft lacked radios! ‘Meanwhile, nine pre-production G S$s were taken on at Ciampino Sud. In June, 11 G $5/ls arrived and, together with the G.5510s, were used by 353 sq for the defence of Rome from Ciampino Sud. The main unit was now at Foligno, On 5 August several aircraft and pilots were passed to 155 Gruppo. (On 23 August 151 and 352 sq went to Milis for interceptor duties, Scoring well against USAAF P-40s. They were soon back at Foligno, where the unit also received a few MC 205 Vs. They wwere hoping to fully equip with G 55s, but no more arrived before the armistice. 353 sq was stil detached at Ciampino, with 12.G 55s oon 7 September. 21 Gruppo CT Squadriglie 354, 355 Stormo 51 ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE UTIES: ‘OJun 1940 Gampino Sud tay = CRI Sqa_ NF, DE ‘4hug 1940 Capedenno aly = «CR3Z_—=Sqa 3 OF 650 Mc 200 12.Ape 1941 Bar aly Mc 200 Saas OF 4 May 1942 Otopen? Romania C200 SIRI 4 May 1922 Staiao Rusia MG200«CSIR_ AR, AE, DF 4d” 1982 Vorostilovgrad Russia —-MC200««CSIR—AR, DF GA Sul 1982 Maiev Russa C200 CSIR AR. OF 24s TOR2 Voroseiovgrac Fussia = MC200 CSIR AE, DF. GA oan 22Jan 1943 Stalino Fussa — MC200-«CSIR_OF, GA mc 202 Jan 1943 Saporstie —Pussla M0200 CSIR OF Mo202 Feo 1948 Odessa Fussia = MC200 «SIRT ‘wo202 May 1943 Zagabria Yugoslavia M200 «CSIR ‘wc202 18 May 1943 Frenze tay M202 Sq TG dun 1943 Capua tay M202 Sqe3 OF 23.4un 1943 Cnisia Sly M202. ASC F Su 1983 Palermo Soy = M202 AST Yiu 1943 Madura fay wc20 Saas OF 24 Jul 1948 Pescara tay Mo202 Sq? OF Aug 1943 Gioadel Cole aly = MC 202 Saad OF 356 sq became Autonomo.on 3 June 1940, but rejoined the Gruppo fon4 August, On 13 June the CR 32s were detached to Guidonia as 4 nighifighter section. The Gruppo transferred from 51 10 52 Stormo on 11 September. 3$4 and 355 sq became Autonome and moved to the Greek-Albanian front on 28 October. Three CR 32 ‘gr nightfighters were assigned to 356 sq on 7 November, to add 19 their G 50s. However, by december the unit was training on 17 MC 200s, as well as a few G 50s. In April they moved to Bari with nine Macchis for operations the Yugoslav campaign. Subsequently. they prepared for anti- partisan duties when orders came for the Russian front. 382 and 386 sq now joined 356 sq. The unit may have been on convoy ‘escort duties between Tunisia and Sardinia in August. Between March and July 1942 the unit personnel moved 10 Stalino, replacing 22 Gruppo. They received that unit's surviving aircraft in addition to the 10 new MC 200s they had brought with them. In early June 361 sq arrived from the Aegean. (On 27 June two squadriglie were detached to Borvenkovo t0 cover the crossing of the River Don at Izyum, carrying out fighter ‘Sweeps and ground strafing. Using Voroscilovgrad as their main base, squaariglie were detached where needed most. Two went to “Tazinskaja as escorts to Ju 87 Ds from 24 July, and two then went to Oblivskaja four days later. In August two were on intercept duties at Millerovo and one was at Kantermirovka until 18 December when it moved to Starobelsk. Reunited back at Voroscilovgrad by the end of December, the last operation was carried out on 17 January 1943 over the Millerovo area. Five days later they retired to Stalino, ready for the return journey home. Fifteen unserviceable aircraft were left behind During September they had received 12 MC 202s, and later two photo-recce versions had arrived. Bad weather hindered is and the MC 202s only managed 17 sorties with no losses of claims. The MC 200s claimed 88 Russian aircraft forthe loss of 1S.A creditable performance for an open-cockpit fighter in the Russian Autumn and Winter! In February, at Odessa, the unit had 24 MC 200s and nine MC 202s left. Fully equipping with the MC 202 Series VIII they were sent 10 Sicily two months later. 382 sq left the Gruppo about this time. By ‘August the Gruppo was back in Italy with only a few serviceable aircraft. 22 Gruppo CT ‘Squadriglie 357, 358, 359 Stormo 52 ARRIVAL BASE COUNTRY AIRCRAFT ZONE DUTIES 10.Jun 1940 Pontedera aly G50 SaaS AE 21 Jun 1940 Liguria Hay G50 0 Sut AE Jun 1940 Piemonte tay G50 Sqal AE ‘Jun 1840 Ciampino ay G50 Sua3__T6,0F. AE wc 200 6 Mar 1941 Tiana baa C200 ALB. OF, AG 12 Aug 1941 Beneasa = Romana NC200.«« SIRT Y2Aup 1941 Tudoa Russia» C200. CSIR OF 25 Aug 1941 KrvoiRog Russia «C200.» OSIR_— DF, AE 20 Oct 194% Ssporoshe Russia © NMC 00.» CSIR_— DF, AE, GA May 1942 Otopen?” Romania. «none 7 May 1942 Ciampino ay Fez001 S23 TG Jul 1982 Elmas Sarria e201 SAR AN Sep 1942 Gela Sicily” Re2001 ASIC GA, AR, AE TNov 1942 Monserato Sarria Re 2001 SAR. AN, GA, AR Feb 1943 Capodicino ay Re2001 S23 TG,DF 520 e 2005, Foz0bs 104Jul 1943 Pantera Pantolleia Re2001 ASIC AN, OF, CE ‘kl 1943 capeaenino kay e201 Saa3_OF e 2005, ‘mo 202 "The war began for this unit during a transfer to bases closer to the front, due to the poor range of their 28 G 50s. The first operation ‘was on 15 June 1940, escorting S 79s of 9.41 and 46 Stormi to Calvi port, in Corsica. For operations against the French mainland they moved to Liguria and Piemonte, with 357 and 358 sq ‘detached to Torino-Caselle. 358 sq left for Libya on 23 December, the first G 50 unit to arrive in that theatre. It joined 2 Gruppo that ‘month,