The Macchi MC-200 Saetta 'Lightning' interceptor was designed by Mario Castoldi for the Italian Regia Aeronautica, entering active service in 1939 just one year after it's maiden flight. The Saetta was to see active service throughout hostilities, finally being withdrawn by the Regia Aeronautica in 1947 by which time 1,153 aircraft had been built. Although a sound design in 1938, lack of power and insufficient armament was eventually to make this otherwise excellent design obsolete as later fighter designs advanced in performance almost monthly during WWII, the Saetta had very few and minor design alterations. Macchi MC-200 Saetta Specifications: Wingspan: 34 ft. 8 in. Length: 27 ft. 6 in. Height: 10 ft. Weight: 5,275 lbs. Engine: Single 870 hp Fiat A.74 R.C.38 double row 14-cylinder air cooled radial engine Maximum speed: 313 mph Maximum range: 355 miles Service Ceiling: 29,200 ft.
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