Regia Aeronautica

Fiat G.55 Centauro


Model: Fiat G.55 "Centauro"
Power Plant: 1-1475 hp DB 605 A
Dimensions: Wing Span 31.8'; Length 27.1'
Maximum Speed: 620 km/h at 7400 m
Armament: 2x12.7mm, 3x20 mm
Payload:
Total Production: 180 all models
First flown: April, 20th, 1942
In Service: RA (1942-194)

The G.55 Centauro was an extensively redesigned development of the G.50 Freccia with the new DB 605A-1 engine, license-built in Italy by Fiat. It had good general performances and was an hard match for allied fighters in 1943-44. Deliveries of the first dozens of Centauros began in june 1943 to 51° and 53° stormo but they had practically no service before Italy's surrender. After September, 8th, 1943, around 150 served with A.N.R. in Northern Italy, fighting side by side with the Luftwaffe.

Author: Alessandro Casadio (alcasadi@tin.it)

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