Macchi C202
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The Macchi C202, nicknamed the Folgore, is generally considered to be the best mass produced fighter aircraft flown by Italy during World War II. It became the most numerous fighter aircraft used by the Regia Aeronautica during the War.
The new aircraft relied heavily upon the airframe of its predecessor being adapted to accept an in-line, rather than a radial engine. The streamlining of the Macchi C202, which was enabled by the slimmer engine, plus an additional 300 h.p., resulted in an aircraft that was about 60 mph faster than its predecessor.
Pilots appreciated the higher level flight speed of the new aircraft, plus that it could now dive with the most modern Allied fighter aircraft. It did this while retained the excellent maneuverability of its predecessor.
The Macchi C202 first saw action over Libya in November of 1941. It's greatest success was realized over the Soviet Union where Regia Aeronautica pilots claimed nearly a six to one victory record.
After the surrender of Italy, a few remaining Macchi C202 aircraft were used as trainers by the Allies. The Egyptians used the fighter through 1951.
A total of about 1,200 Macchi C202 aircraft of all types were produced.
The photograph right above is of the Macchi C202 slope soarer scratch built by Ray H of RC Groups. It has a wing span of 62". Controls are ailerons, elevator, and rudder.
Peck Polymers has free flight, rubber powered model kit with an 18" wingspan. It may be possible to convert it to a scale model Macchi C202 rc airplane.
The first photograph below is of the Macchi C202 scratch built by Diommil of RC Groups. The all foam rc has a wingspan of 29". Propelling it is a CD ROM motor turning a 4.75 x 4.75 propeller.
The second photograph below is of Tom Van Haaren holding his Macchi C202. Tom's design is in a kit for sale by Manzano Laser Works. Wingspan is 46" and the fuselage is 39" long. It is powered by a Hextronics motor spinning a 8.5 x 5 prop. Ready to fly weight is about 3 1/4 lbs.
The next photograph is of control line model built from Flying Models Magazine plans that can be converted into a Macchi C202. Specifications are 58" wingspan, 48" length, and power by .40 to .51 two cycle engines. Most control line models can fairly easily be converted to radio control model airplanes.
The bottom photograph is of the rc Macchi C202 scratch built by W@CCO of RC Groups. It is of balsawood and plywood construction with a 46" wingspan and 39" length. Power comes from a Axi 2914/12 motor.
We received the following email: “I have 3 Macchi C202 AMA 704 Event (1/12th Scale Combat from Northwest Tool Supply ) I'd like to find a larger aircraft that can stand up to some very tough flying and even tougher landings.
- Lindsey Angell(lindsey_angell@yahoo.com)”
If anyone can help Lindsey find the ideal Macchi C202, please respond to the email directly.
We invite you to email us if you know of a Macchi C202 that you would like to recommend for this page.
Macchi C 202
Macchi C202 by Diommil of RC Groups.
