                  The Fiat G.50bis "Freccia"

The Fiat G.50 "Freccia" (Arrow) was first delivered to the
Regia Aeronautica in 1938.  Physically, it resembled the
FW190 to a degree; however, its performance did not.  It was
totally outclassed by most of the fighters it encountered.
Fiat-CMASA built 245 of the original G.50 before they started
on the improved G.50bis, which had a cleaner fuselage,
modified canopy, more armor plating, and increased range.  It
was powered by a 870 hp Fiat A74 RC 38 radial engine (14
cylinder).  The prototype of the G.50bis flew on 9 September
1940, and over 400 were built.  It served as an interceptor,
ground attack, and as a bomber escort and shipping escort.
The G.50 was armed with two 12.7mm Breda-SAFAT machineguns in
the upper cowling, and could be armed with 660 pounds of
bombs (300 kg).
SPECS:  Top speed 302 mph at 19,685 feet, ceiling 35,270
feet, range 294 miles.



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