The Fiat CR.42 Falco (“Falcon”), a single-seat biplane fighter, was the main fighter of the Regia Aeronautica (Italian Air Force) in the initial period of World War II. The CR.42 was an evolutionary design of Fiat’s earlier CR.32 fighter, featuring a more powerful supercharged Fiat A.74R1C.38 air-cooled radial engine and aerodynamic improvements to its relatively clean exterior surfaces. The aircraft proved to be relatively agile in flight, a factor that had been attributed to its very low wing loading and a sometimes decisive tactical advantage.
RAF Intelligence praised its exceptional manoeuvrability, further noting that “the plane was immensely strong”, though it was technically outclassed by faster, more heavily armed monoplanes. While primarily used as a fighter, various other roles were adopted for some variants of the type, such as the CR.42CN dedicated night fighter model, the CR.42AS ground attack aircraft, and the CR.42B Biposto twin-seat trainer aircraft.
The C4.42AS was a close air-support version. The two standard 12.7 mm machine guns could be supplemented with two more. There were underwing racks for two 220 lb (100 kg) bombs. AS stands for ‘Africa Settentrionale.’ There was an additional engine filter to prevent damage from sand which caused a loss in power, a common occurrence in North Africa, since filter-less engines could be damaged after only a few hours use.
Model Features
- Accurate copy of the prototype
- Highly detailed engine and cockpit interior
- Three version decal sheet is included
Markings Available
- Fiat CR 42AS Falco 20. Squadriglia, 46. Gruppo, 15. Stormo Assalto in El Adem (Libya, North Africa) 1942
- Fiat CR 42AS Falco 20. Squadriglia, 46. Gruppo, 15. Stormo Assalto in El Adem (Libya, North Africa) 1942
- Fiat CR 42AS Falco 45, Gruppo Complementare, Scuola Caccia Assalto, Ravenna (Italy) 1942
Model Information
- Scale: 1:32
- Number of Parts: 183 pieces
- Length: 258 mm
- Width: 303 mm
- Includes detailed assembly instructions
- Highly detailed sprues with high accuracy made from quality plastic
- Box size: 410 x 260 x 55 mm
