Editing Macchi C.200 Saetta

{{Short description|1930s Italian fighter aircraft}}
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{{EngvarB|date=March 2023}}
{{Infobox aircraft
|name=C.200 ''Saetta''
|image=Macchi MC-200 920901-F-1234P-073.jpg
|image_caption=The [[National Museum of the United States Air Force]]'s preserved C.200 in the markings of 372<sup>o</sup> ''Squadriglia'', ''Regia Aeronautica''.
|aircraft_type=Fighter
|manufacturer=[[Aermacchi|Aeronautica Macchi]]
|designer=[[Mario Castoldi]]
|first_flight=24 December 1937
|introduction=1939
|retired=1947
|status=
|primary_user=''[[Regia Aeronautica]]''
|more_users=
|produced=
|number_built=1,151 + 2 Prototypes<ref name="aluomini">{{cite web |title=Aer. Macchi C.200 Saetta, Aerei militari, Schede tecniche aerei militari italiani e storia degli aviatori |url=http://www.alieuomini.it/catalogo/dettaglio_catalogo/aer_macchi_c_saetta,5.html |language=it |website=www.alieuomini.it |access-date=3 May 2019}}</ref><ref name = "catt 9 10">Cattaneo 1966, pp. 9–10.</ref>
|unit cost=
|developed_into=[[Macchi C.202]]
|variants=
}}

The '''Macchi C.200 Saetta''' (Italian: "Lightning"), or MC.200, is a [[fighter aircraft]] developed and manufactured by [[Aeronautica Macchi]] in [[Italy]]. Various versions were flown by the ''[[Regia Aeronautica]]'' (Italian Air Force) who used the type throughout the [[World War II|Second World War]].

The C.200 was designed by [[Mario Castoldi]], Macchi's lead designer, to serve as a modern [[monoplane]] fighter aircraft, furnished with retractable [[landing gear]] and powered by a [[radial engine]]. The C.200 possessed excellent maneuverability, and its general flying characteristics left little to be desired.<ref name="Munson 1960, p. 34">Munson 1960, p. 34.</ref> Its stability in a high-speed dive was exceptional,<ref name= "Spick p. 116.">Spick 1997, p. 116.</ref> but it was underpowered and underarmed in comparison to its contemporaries.<ref name="Ethell p. 68">Ethell 1995, p. 68.</ref> Early on, there were a number of crashes caused by stability problems, nearly resulting in the grounding of the type; these problems were ultimately addressed via aerodynamic modifications to the wing.

From the time Italy entered the Second World War on 10 June 1940, until the signing of the [[Armistice between Italy and Allied armed forces|armistice of 8 September 1943]], the C. 200 flew more operational sorties than any other Italian aircraft. The ''Saetta'' saw operational service in [[Greece]], [[North Africa]], [[Yugoslavia]], across the [[Mediterranean]], and in the [[Soviet Union]] (where it obtained an excellent kill to loss ratio of 88 to 15).<ref name="de Marchi p.10">De Marchi and Tonizzo 1994, p. 10.</ref><ref name="Ethell p. 70">Ethell 1995, p. 70.</ref> The plane's very strong all-metal construction and air-cooled engine made the aircraft ideal for conducting ground attack missions; several units flew it as a fighter-bomber. Over 1,000 aircraft had been constructed by the end of the war.<ref name="Ethell p. 69">Ethell 1995, p. 69.</ref>

==Development==

===Origins===
In early 1935 [[Mario Castoldi]], lead designer of Italian aircraft company Macchi, commenced work on a series of design studies for a modern [[monoplane]] fighter aircraft, which was to be furnished with retractable [[landing gear]].<ref name = "catt 3">Cattaneo 1966, p. 3.</ref> Castoldi had previously designed several racing aircraft that had competed for the [[Schneider Trophy]], including the [[Macchi M.39]], which won the competition in 1926. He had also designed the [[Macchi M.C.72|M.C. 72]]. From an early stage, the concept aircraft that emerged from these studies became known as the ''C.200''.<ref name = "catt 3"/>

In 1936, in the aftermath of [[Italian East Africa|Italy's campaigns in East Africa]], an official program was initiated with the aim of completely re-equipping the ''Regia Aeronautica'' with a new [[interceptor aircraft]] of modern design. The 10 February 1936 specifications,<ref>Sgarlato 2008, p. 4.</ref> formulated and published by the ''Ministero dell'Aeronatica'', called for an aircraft powered by a single [[radial engine]], which was to be capable of a top speed of {{cvt|500|km/h}} and a climb rate of 6,000 meters in 5 minutes.<ref>Sgarlato 2008, p. 5.</ref> Additional requirements were soon specified: the aircraft was to be capable of being used as an interceptor with a flight endurance time of two hours and armed with a single (later increased to two) {{cvt|12.7|mm|2}} [[machine gun]].<ref name = "catt 3"/>

===Prototypes===
In response to the prescribed demand for a modern fighter aircraft, Castoldi submitted a proposal for an aircraft based upon his 1935 design studies.<ref name = "catt 3"/> On 24 December 1937, the first [[prototype]] (MM.336) C.200 conducted its [[maiden flight]] at [[Lonate Pozzolo]], [[Varese]], with Macchi chief test pilot [[Giuseppe Burei]] at the controls. Officials within the ministry and Macchi's design team fought over the retention of the characteristic hump used to enhance cockpit visibility; after a protracted argument, the feature was ultimately retained.<ref name = "catt 3"/>

The first prototype was followed by the second prototype early the following year. During testing, the aircraft reportedly attained {{cvt|805|km/h}} in a dive free of negative tendencies such as [[Aeroelasticity#Flutter|flutter]] and other [[aeroelasticity|aeroelastic]] issues; although it could achieve only {{cvt|500|km/h}} in level flight due to a lack of engine power.<ref name = "catt 3"/> Nevertheless, this capability was superior than the performance of the competing [[Fiat G.50 Freccia]], [[Reggiane Re.2000]], [[Aeronautica Umbra Trojani AUT.18|A.U.T. 18]], [[IMAM Ro.51]], and [[Caproni-Vizzola F.5]]; of these, the Re.2000 was seen as the most capable of the C.200's rivals, being more maneuverable and capable of greater performance at low altitude but lacking in structural strength.<ref name = "catt 3"/>

The C.200 benefitted greatly from preparations that were being made for major expansion of the Italian Air Force, known as Programme R.<ref name = "catt 3"/> In 1938, the C.200 was selected as the winner of the tender "Caccia I" (Fighter 1) of the ''Regia Aeronautica''. This choice came in spite of mixed results during flight testing at [[Guidonia Air Base|Guidonia airport]]; on 11 June 1938, Major [[Ugo Borgogno]] warned that when tight turns at beyond 90° were attempted, the aircraft became extremely difficult to control, including a tendency to turn upside down, mostly to the right and entering into a violent [[Flat spin (aviation)|flat spin]].<ref name="de Marchi 1994">de Marchi 1994, {{page needed|date=June 2017}}</ref>

===Production===
Shortly following the completion of the second prototype, an initial order for 99 production aircraft was placed with Macchi.<ref name = "catt 3"/> The G.50, which during the same flight tests held at Guidonia airport had out-turned the Macchi,<ref name="de Marchi 1994"/> was also placed in limited production, because it had been determined that the former could be brought into service earlier. The decision, or indecision, involved in producing multiple overlapping types led to greater inefficiencies in both production and in operation.<ref name = "catt 3 4">Cattaneo 1966, pp. 3–4.</ref> In June 1939, production of the C.200 formally commenced.

The most serious handicap was the low production rate of the type. According to some reports, in excess of 22,000 hours in production time was attributed to the use of antiquated construction technology.<ref>Marcon May 2000, pp. 28–38.</ref> A lack of urgency shown by the authorities regarding standardisation was also viewed as having negatively affected mass production efforts, particularly in light of the lack of availability of key resources in Italy at the time.<ref name = "catt 3"/> In order to improve the rate of output, the C.200 remained almost unchanged throughout its production life, save for adjustments to the cockpit in response to pilot feedback.<ref name = "catt 5"/>

In addition to Macchi (who completed 397 airframes), the C.200 was also constructed by Italian aircraft companies [[Società Italiana Ernesto Breda (556)]] and [[SAI Ambrosini (200)]] under a [[subcontractor|subcontracting]] arrangement intended to produce 1,200 aircraft between 1939 and 1943.<ref name = "catt 5">Cattaneo 1966, p. 5.</ref> However, during 1940, the termination of all production of the type was considered in response to aerodynamic performance problems that had caused the loss of multiple aircraft; the type was retained after changes were made to the wing to rectify a tendency to go into an uncontrollable spin that could occur during turns.<ref name = "catt 6"/>

In an attempt to improve performance, a C.201 prototype was created with a {{cvt|750|kW}} [[List of aircraft engines#F to K|Fiat A.76]] engine;<ref name = "catt 9"/> work on this prototype was later abandoned in favour of the [[Daimler-Benz DB 601]]-powered [[Macchi C.202|C.202]]. At one point, it was intended that the ''Saetta'' was to have been replaced outright by the C.202 after only a single year in production. However, the C.200's service life was extended because [[Alfa Romeo]] proved to be incapable of producing enough of the RA.1000 (license-built DB 601) engines needed by the newer aircraft. This contributed to the decision to construct further C.200s that used C.202 components as an interim measure while waiting for the production rate of the latter's engine to be increased.

At the beginning of 1940, Denmark was set to place an order for 12 C.200s to replace its aging [[Hawker Nimrod]] fighters, but the deal fell through when [[Operation Weserübung|Germany invaded Denmark]].<ref name = "catt 6"/><ref name="Balsved">{{cite web |last1=Balsved |first1=Johnny E. |translator-last1=Arvedsen |translator-first1=L.-H. Kongsbak |title=History of Danish naval aviation |url=http://www.navalhistory.dk/English/NavAir/NavalAviation.htm |date=27 January 2006 |website=navalhistory.dk |location=Copenhagen |language=en, da |access-date=3 May 2019}}</ref> A total of 1,153 ''Saettas'' were eventually produced, but only 33 remained operational by the time [[Armistice with Italy|armistice between Italy and Allied armed forces]] in September 1943.<ref name = "catt 9"/>

==Design==
The Macchi C.200 was a modern all-metal [[Cantilever#Aircraft|cantilever]] low-wing [[monoplane]], which was equipped with retractable [[landing gear]] and an enclosed [[cockpit]]. The fuselage was of semi-[[Monocoque#Aircraft|monocoque]] construction, with [[self-sealing fuel tank]]s under the pilot's seat, and in the centre section of the wing.<ref name = "catt 4"/> The distinctive "hump" elevated the partially open cockpit to provide the pilot with an unusually wide field of view over the engine.<ref name = "catt 3"/><ref name = "catt 3 4"/> The wing had an advanced system whereby the [[hydraulics|hydraulic]]ally actuated [[Flap (aircraft)|flap]]s were interconnected with the [[aileron]]s, so that when the flaps were lowered the ailerons drooped as well.<ref name = "catt 4 5">Cattaneo 1966, pp. 4–5.</ref> As a result of its ultimate load factor of 15.1, it could reach speeds as fast as {{cvt|800|km/h}} [[true airspeed]] during dives.<ref name="Palermo p. 236.">Palermo 2014, p. 236.</ref>

Power was provided by a {{cvt|650|kW}} [[Fiat A.74]] [[radial engine]], although Castoldi preferred [[Inline engine (aviation)|inline engines]], and had used them to power all of his previous designs. Under a ''direttiva'' (air ministry specification) of 1932, Italian industrial leaders had been instructed to concentrate solely on radial engines for fighters, due to their superior reliability.<ref>Brindley 1973, p. 234.</ref> The A.74 was a re-design of the American [[Pratt & Whitney R-1830|Pratt & Whitney R-1830 SC-4 Twin Wasp]] by engineers [[Tranquillo Zerbi]] and {{ill|Antonio Fessia|it}}, and was the only Italian-built engine that could provide a level of reliability comparable to Allied designs.<ref name = "catt 4">Cattaneo 1966, p. 4.</ref><ref>Sgarlato 2008, p. 14.</ref> The licence-built A.74 engine could be problematic. In late spring 1941, 4<sup>o</sup> Stormo's Macchi C.200s, then based in [[Sicily]], had all the A.74s produced by the [[Reggiane]] factory replaced because they were defective. The elite unit had to abort many missions against [[Malta]] due to engine problems.<ref name= "Duma pp. 200-201.">Duma 2007, pp. 200–201.</ref> While some considered the Macchi C.200 to have been underpowered, the air-cooled radial engine provided some pilot protection during [[strafing]] missions. Consequently, the C.200 was often used as a ''cacciabombardiere'' ([[fighter-bomber]]).<ref>Ethell 1996, pp. 68–69.</ref>

The C.200 was typically armed with a pair of {{cvt|12.7|mm|2}} [[Breda-SAFAT machine gun]]s;<ref name = "catt 4"/> while these were often considered to be insufficient, the ''Saetta'' was able to compete with contemporary Allied fighters. According to aviation author Gianni Cattaneo, perhaps the greatest weakness of the C.200 was its light machine gun armament.<ref name= "Cattaneo">Cattaneo 1968, {{page needed|date=June 2017}}</ref> Moreover, a radio was not fitted as standard.

Like other early Italian monoplanes, the C.200 suffered from a dangerous tendency to go into a spin.<ref>Sgarlato 2008, p. 6.</ref> Early production C.200 aircraft showed [[Autorotation (fixed-wing aircraft)|autorotation]] problems similar to those found in the [[Fiat G.50 Freccia]], [[IMAM Ro.51]], and the [[Aeronautica Umbra Trojani AUT.18]]. At the beginning of 1940, a pair of deadly accidents occurred due to autorotation. Aircraft production and deliveries were halted while the ''Regia Aeronautica'' evaluated the potential for abandoning use of the type, as the skill involved in flying the C.200 was considered to be beyond that of the average pilot.<ref>de Marchi 1994. Quote: "Sopraggiungono due incidenti mortali per autorotazione che fanno sospendere voli e consegne, si pensa di abbandonare la macchina classificata non pilotabile dalla media dei piloti" (Two fatal accidents occurred due to autorotation that caused suspension of flights and deliveries, prompting consideration of abandoning the use of the aircraft, as it was considered "unflyable" by the average pilot.)</ref> The problem was a product of the profile of the wing. Castoldi soon tested a new profile, but a solution to the autorotation problem was found by [[Sergio Stefanutti]], chief designer of [[Ambrosini (aircraft manufacturer)|SAI Ambrosini]] in [[Passignano sul Trasimeno]], based on studies conducted by German aircraft engineer [[Willy Messerschmitt]] and the American [[National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics]] (NACA). He redesigned the wing section with a variable, instead of constant, profile,<ref>Sgarlato 2008, pp. 7–8.</ref> which was achieved by covering parts of the wings with plywood.<ref name="de Marchi 1994"/>

The new wing entered production in 1939–1940 at SAI Ambrosini and became standard on the aircraft manufactured by Aermacchi and Breda, a licensed manufacturer.<ref>Sgarlato 2008, p. 8.</ref> After the modified wing of the ''Saetta'' was introduced, the C.200 proved to be, for a time, the foremost Italian fighter. The first production C.200 series, did not have armour fitted to protect the pilots, as a weight-saving measure. Armour plating was incorporated when frontline units were going to replace the ''Saettas'' with the new [[Macchi C.202]] ''Folgore'' (Thunderbolt) but in only a limited number of aircraft. After the armour was fitted, the aircraft could become difficult to fly. During aerobatic maneuvers, one could enter an extremely difficult-to-control [[Spin (aerodynamics)#Unrecoverable spins|flat spin]], which would force the pilot to bail out. On 22 July 1941, [[Leonardo Ferrulli]], one of the top-scoring ''Regia Aeronautica'' pilots, encountered the problem and was forced to bail out over Sicily.<ref name= "Duma p. 201.">Duma 2007, p. 201.</ref>

==Operational history==

===Introduction===
[[File:Macchi C.200 on ground.jpg|thumb|A Macchi C.200 on the ground]]

In August 1939, about 30 C.200 Saettas were delivered to the 10th ''Gruppo'' of the 4th ''Stormo'', stationed in North Africa.<ref name = "catt 5"/> However, pilots of this elite unit of the [[Regia Aeronautica]] opposed the adoption of the C.200, preferring the more manouvrable [[Fiat CR.42]] instead. Accordingly, the Macchis were then transferred to the 6th ''Gruppo'' of the 1st ''Stormo'' in Sicily, who were enthusiastic supporters of the new fighter, and to the 152nd ''Gruppo'' of the 54th ''Stormo'' in [[Vergiate]].<ref name = "catt 5"/> Further units received the type during peacetime, including the 153rd ''Gruppo'' and the 369th ''Squadriglia''.<ref name = "catt 5 6">Cattaneo 1966, pp. 5–6.</ref>

When Italy entered the war on 10 June 1940, 144 C.200s were operational, only half of which were serviceable.<ref name = "catt 3"/><ref name="de Marchi 1994"/> The re-equipment programme, under which the type would have been widely adopted, took longer than expected; and several squadrons were still in the process of being reequipped with the C.200 at the outbreak of war.<ref name = "catt 6">Cattaneo 1966, p. 6.</ref> Although the first 240 aircraft had been fitted with fully enclosed cockpits, the subsequent variants were provided with open cockpits at the request of the Italian pilots, who were familiar with the open cockpits that were commonplace amongst the old [[biplane]]s.<ref name = "catt 4"/>

===Service history===
The C.200 played no role in Italy's brief action during the [[Battle of France]].<ref name = "catt 6"/> The first C.200s to make their combat debut were those of the 6th ''Gruppo Autonomo'' C.T. (''caccia terrestre'', or land-attack fighter) led by ''Tenente Colonnello'' (Wing Commander) Armando Francois. This squadron was based at the Sicilian airport of [[Catania Fontanarossa]]. A ''Saetta'' from this unit was the first C.200 to be lost in combat when, on 23 June 1940, 14 C.200s (eight from 88<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'', five from 79<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'' and one from 81<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'') that were escorting 10 [[Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 Sparviero|Savoia-Marchetti SM.79s]] from the 11th ''Stormo'' were intercepted by two [[Gloster Gladiator]]s. Gladiator No.5519, piloted by Flight Lieutenant George Burges, jumped the bombers but was in turn attacked by a C.200 flown by ''Sergente Maggiore'' Lamberto Molinelli of 71<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'' over the sea off [[Sliema]]. The Macchi overshot four or five times the more agile Gladiator which eventually shot down the ''Saetta''.<ref name="Gladiators over Malta">Cull and Galea 2008, pp. 46–47.</ref>

[[File:Macchi C.200.jpg|thumb|C.200 in flight]]

In September 1940, the C.200s of the 6th Gruppo conducted their first offensive operations in support of wider [[Axis powers|Axis]] efforts against the [[Mediterranean]] island of [[Malta]], escorting [[Junkers Ju 87]] dive-bombers.<ref name = "catt 6"/> On 1 November 1940 the C.200s were credited with their first kill, a British [[Short Sunderland|Sunderland]], on a reconnaissance mission, that was sighted and attacked just outside [[Augusta, Sicily|Augusta]] by a flight of ''Saettas'' on patrol.<ref name="Caruana">Caruana 1996, p. 166.</ref> With the arrival towards the end of December 1940 of X ''Fliegerkorps'' in Sicily, the C.200s were assigned escort duty for I/StG.1 and II/StG.2 Ju 87 bombers attacking Malta, as the ''Stukas'' did not have adequate fighter cover until the arrival of 7./JG26's Bf 109s.<ref>Caruana 1999, p. 169.</ref>

Soon after, British air power in the theatre was enhanced, especially by the arrival of the [[Hawker Hurricane]] fighter, which forced a redeployment of Italian forces in response.<ref name = "catt 6"/> Although considered to be inferior to the Hurricane in terms of speed, the C.200 had the advantage in terms of manoeuvrability, turn radius, and climb rate.<ref name = "catt 6"/> According to aviation author Bill Gunston, the C.200 proved effective against the Hurricane, delivering outstanding dogfight performance without any vices.<ref name="Gunston  1988, p. 255">Gunston 1988, p. 255.</ref>

While the Hurricane was faster at [[sea level]] ({{cvt|450|km/h}} vs the C.200's {{cvt|430|km/h}}, the ''Saetta'' could reach more than {{cvt|500|km/h}} at {{cvt|4500|m}}, although its speed dropped off at altitude: {{cvt|490|km/h}} at {{cvt|6000|m}} and {{cvt|350|km/h}} at {{cvt|7000|m}} with a maximum ceiling of {{cvt|8800|m}}. Comparative speeds of the Hurricane Mk I were {{cvt|505|km/h}} at {{cvt|5000|m}} and {{cvt|528|km/h}} at {{cvt|6000|m}}.<ref>Lembo 2000, p. 26.</ref> Over {{cvt|5000|m}} and at very low levels, only the huge Vokes (anti-sand) air filter fitted to the "tropical" variants slowed the Hurricane Mk II to Macchi levels. Although the Macchi C.200 was more agile than the Hurricane, it carried a lighter armament than its British adversary.

On 6 February 1941, the 4th ''Stormo'' received C.200s from the 54th ''Stormo''. Once the autorotation problems had been resolved, the Macchis were regarded as "very good machines, fast, manoeuvrable and strong" by Italian pilots.<ref name= "Duma p. 188.">Duma 2007, p. 188.</ref>  After intense training, on 1 April 1941, the 10th ''Gruppo'' (4th ''Stormo'') moved to [[Ronchi dei Legionari]] airport and started active service.<ref name= "Duma p. 190.">Duma 2007, p. 190.</ref> The C.200 subsequently saw action over [[Greece]], [[Yugoslavia]] and the Balkans, frequently engaging in dogfights with British Gladiators and Hurricanes over the Balkans.<ref name="de Marchi 1994"/>

===Yugoslavia===
[[File:Aerei in atterraggio.jpg|thumb|A Macchi C.200 Saetta during [[World War II]]. (From the private archive of the Riggio family)]]

C.200s from the 4th ''Stormo'' took part in operations against Yugoslavia right from the start of hostilities.<ref name = "catt 6 7">Cattaneo 1966, pp. 6–7.</ref> At dawn on 6 April 1941, four C.200s from 73<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'' flew over [[Pula|Pola]] harbour and attacked an oil tanker, setting it on fire. Due to limited air resistance being encountered, sorties flown by the type in this theatre were usually limited to escorting and strafing.<ref name = "catt 7">Cattaneo 1966, p. 7.</ref>

The 4th ''Stormo'' flew its last mission against Yugoslavia on 14 April 1941: on that day, 20 C.200s from the 10th ''Gruppo'' flew up to {{cvt|100|km}} south of  [[Karlovac]] without meeting any enemy aircraft. Operations ended on 17 April. During those 11 days, the 4th ''Stormo'' did not lose a single C.200. Its pilots destroyed a total of 20 seaplanes and flying boats, while damaging a further 10. Additionally, they set on fire an oil tanker, a fuel truck, several other vehicles, and destroyed port installations.<ref name= "Duma pp. 190-192-193.">Duma 2007, pp. 190–193.</ref>

===North Africa===
Fitted with dust filters and designated ''C.200AS'', the ''Saetta'' saw extensive use in [[North Africa]], greater than any other theatre of war.<ref name = "catt 7"/> The Macchi's introduction was not initially well received by pilots; in 1940, the first C.200 unit, the 4th ''Stormo'', replaced the type with the C.R.42. The first combat missions were flown as escorts for [[Savoia-Marchetti SM.79]] bombers attacking [[Malta]] in June 1940, where one C.200 was claimed by a Gladiator. On 11 June 1940, second day of war for Italy, the C.200s of 79<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'' encountered one of the Sea Gladiators that had been scrambled from [[Hal Far]], Malta. Flying Officer W. J. Wood claimed ''Tenente'' Giuseppe Pesola had been shot down, but the Italian pilot came back unscathed to his base.<ref name= "Malizia  pag. 28.">Malizia 2006, p. 28.</ref>

[[File:A formation of Macchi C.200s escorting bombers.jpg|thumb|left|A formation of Macchi C.200s escorting bombers, probably on a mission to [[Malta]] and [[Tobruk]].]]

During April 1941, the C.200s of the 374th ''Squadriglia'' became the first unit to be stationed on the North African mainland.<ref name = "catt 7"/> Further units, including the 153rd ''Gruppo'' and the 157th ''Gruppo'', were stationed on the mainland as Allied air power in the region increased in capability and numbers, including aircraft such as the Hurricane and the [[Curtiss P-40 Warhawk|P-40 Warhawk]]. According to Cattaneo, the C.200 performed well under the conditions of the desert climate, particularly due to its high structural strength and short takeoff run.<ref name = "catt 7"/>

On 8 December 1941, Macchi C.200s of the 153rd ''Gruppo'' engaged Hurricanes from [[No. 94 Squadron RAF|94 Squadron]]. A dogfight developed, with the commanding officer, Squadron Leader Linnard, attempting to intercept a Macchi attacking a Hurricane. Both aircraft were making steep turns and losing height. But Linnard was too late, and the Macchi, turning inside the Hurricane, had already hit the Hurricane's cockpit area. The stricken aircraft turned over at a low level and dived into the ground, bursting into flames. Its pilot, the New Zealand-born RAF "ace" (six enemy aircraft destroyed and many more probably destroyed) Flight Lieutenant [[Owen Tracey]] was killed.<ref name="de Marchi 1994"/>

North African and Italian-based units were routinely rotated to relieve war-weary crews, aiding the resumption of an Axis offensive in the region during early 1942.<ref name = "catt 7"/> During this offensive, which led to Italian and German forces reaching the outskirts of [[Alexandria]], [[Egypt]], the C.200s were heavily engaged in bomber escort and low-altitude attack operations, while the newer C.202s performed high-altitude air cover duties.<ref name = "catt 7"/>

[[File:Saetta200.png|thumb|The [[National Museum of the United States Air Force]]′s ''Saetta'' carries the markings of the ''[[Regia Aeronautica]]''′s 372<sup>a</sup> Squadriglia, 153rd Gruppo.]]

In addition to interceptor duties, C.200s frequently operated as fighter-bombers against both land and naval objectives. The North African theatre was the first in which the type had been intentionally deployed as a fighter-bomber.<ref name = "catt 7 8">Cattaneo 1966, pp. 7–8.</ref> During September 1942, the type was responsible for sinking the British destroyer {{HMS|Sikh|F82|2}}, as well as several smaller motor vessels, near [[Tobruk]], during [[Operation Agreement]], an attempted amphibious assault by Allied forces.<ref name = "catt 8">Cattaneo 1966, p. 8.</ref>

Following the decisive victory by [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] forces at [[El Alamein]], the C.200 provided cover for the retreating Axis forces, strafing advancing Allied columns and light vehicles.<ref name = "catt 8"/> However, operations by the type in the theatre were curtailed around this time by increasing shortages of spares, fuel, and components; losses in the face of numerically superior Allied air power also played a role in the rapid decline of deployable C.200s. During January 1943, many Italian aerial units were withdrawn from North Africa, leaving only a single unit operating the type.<ref name = "catt 8"/> Bomb-carrying C.200s were amongst those aircraft used during Axis attempts to resist the Allied occupation of the island of [[Pantelleria]]. However, early 1943 marked the end of the C.200's viability as an effective front-line fighter.<ref name = "catt 8"/>

===Eastern Front===
{{Main|Italian Expeditionary Corps in Russia|Italian Army in the Soviet Union}}

In August 1941, the Italian air force command dispatched a single air corps, formed from the ''22º Gruppo Autonomo Caccia Terrestre'' with four squadrons and 51 C.200s to the [[Eastern Front (World War II)|Eastern Front]] with the [[Italian Expeditionary Corps in Russia]]; it was the first contribution of the Regia Aeronautica to the campaign.<ref name= "Neulen p. 60.">Neulen 2000, p. 60.</ref> By 12 August 1941, all 51 C.200s had arrived at [[Tudora, Ștefan Vodă]], near [[Odessa]].<ref name = "catt 8"/> On 13 August 1941, commanded by ''Maggiore'' Giovanni Borzoni and deployed in 359<sup>a</sup>, 362<sup>a</sup>, 369<sup>a</sup>, and 371<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'' ([[Flight (military unit)|Flights]]). On 27 August 1941, C.200s carried out their first operations from [[Kryvyi Rih|Krivoi Rog]], achieving eight aerial victories over Soviet bombers and fighters.<ref name= "Neulen pp. 60-62.">Neulen 2000, pp. 60–62.</ref>
For a short time, the 22nd ''Gruppo'' was subordinated to Luftwaffe V. Fliegerkorps.<ref name= "Neulen p. 62.">Neulen 2000, p. 62.</ref>
Subsequently, they took part in the September offensive on the [[Dnieper]]; and as the offensive continued they operated sporadically from airstrips in [[Zaporizhia|Zaporozhye]], [[Stalino]], [[Borvenkovo]], [[Voroshilovgrad]], [[Makiivka]], [[Oblivskaja]], [[Millerovo]], and their easternmost location, [[Administrative divisions of Voronezh Oblast|Kantemirovka]], moving to [[Zaporozhye]] late in October 1941.<ref name = "catt 8 9">Cattaneo 1966, pp. 8–9.</ref>

Maintaining operations became increasingly difficult as winter took hold, the unit having not been furnished with the necessary equipment for conducting low-temperature operations; accordingly, flying was often impossible throughout November and December.<ref name = "catt 9">Cattaneo 1966, p. 9.</ref> In December 1941, 371<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'' was transferred to Stalino, but were replaced two days later by 359<sup>a</sup> with 11 C.200s. On 25 December, the C.200s flew low-level attacks against Soviet troops that had encircled the [[Blackshirts|Black Shirt Legion]] ''Tagliamento'', at Novo Orlowka; and 359<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'' intercepted Soviet fighters over Bulawa, shooting down five without loss to themselves. On 28 December, pilots of 359<sup>a</sup> claimed nine Soviet aircraft, including six [[Polikarpov I-16]] fighters, in the Timofeyevka and Polskaya area, without loss.<ref name= "Neulen p. 62.">Neulen 2000, p. 62.</ref> According to Cattaneo, during the course of the three-day long 'Christmas battle', a total of 12 Soviet fighters were downed by C.200s with only a single friendly aircraft lost.<ref name = "catt 9"/>

During February 1942, weather conditions had improved enough to allow for the resumption of full operations.<ref name = "catt 9"/> From February onwards, the C.200 was employed in repeated attacks upon Soviet airfields at [[Krasny Liman|Liman]], Luskotova, and Leninski Bomdardir. On 4 May 1942, the 22º ''Gruppo Autonomo Caccia Terrestre'' was withdrawn from active operation. The unit had flown 68 missions, taking part in 19 air combats and 11 ground attack missions. The 22º ''Gruppo'' was credited with 66 enemy destroyed, 16 probables, and 45 damaged and was awarded a ''Medaglia d'argento al valor militare'' (Silver Medal for military valor). The group was replaced by the newly formed 21º ''Gruppo Autonomo Caccia Terrestre'', composed of 356<sup>a</sup>, 361<sup>a</sup>, 382<sup>a</sup>, and 386<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia''. This unit, commanded by ''Maggiore'' Ettore Foschini, brought new C.202s and 18 new C.200 fighters. During the [[Second Battle of Kharkov]] (12–30 May) the Italians flew escort for the German bombers and reconnaissance aircraft.<ref name="Neulen p. 63">Neulen 2000, p. 63.</ref>

In May, the aircraft's pilots received praise from the commander of the [[17th Army (Wehrmacht)|German 17th Army]], mostly for their daring and effective attacks in the [[Sloviansk|Slavyansk]] area.<ref name="Neulen pp. 63-64">Neulen 2000, pp. 63–64.</ref> During the German advance in summer 1942, the 21st ''Gruppo Autonomo C.T.'' transferred to [[Makiivka]] airfield, and then to [[Voroshilovgrad]] and Oblivskaya.

As time went on, the type was increasingly tasked to escort German aircraft. On 24 July 1942, the unit was shifted to [[Tatsinskaya Airfield]], with 24 ''Saettas''. Its main task was to provide escort for [[Junkers Ju 87|Stukas]] in the [[Don River (Russia)|Don Bend]] area, where there were few German fighters available. ''Hauptmann'' Friedrich Lang, ''Staffelkäpitan'' of [[Sturzkampfgeschwader 2|1./''StG'' 2]] reported the Italian escort as "most disappointing". The Saettas proved unable to protect the Stukas from Soviet fighters.<ref name= "Bergström-Dikov-Antipov p. 57.">Bergström-Dikov-Antipov- 2006, p. 57.</ref> On 25 and 26 July 1942, five C.200s were lost in aerial combat.<ref name= "Neulen p. 64.">Neulen 2000, p. 64.</ref> After only three days of action from Tatsinskaya, one-third of the Italian fighters had been shot down.<ref name="Bergström-Dikov-Antipov p. 57."/>

The following winter, the Soviet counter-offensive resulted in the mass retreat of Axis forces. By early-December 1942, only 32 ''Saettas'' were still operating, along with 11 C.202s. However, during the first 18 months of its use on the Eastern front, together with C.202s, the C.200 had claimed an 88 to 15 victory/loss ratio, during which it had performed 1,983 escort missions, 2,557 offensive sweeps, 511 ground support sorties, and 1,310 strafing sorties.<ref name = "catt 9"/>

Losses grew in the face of a more aggressive enemy flying newer aircraft. The last major action was on 17 January 1943: 25 C.200s strafed enemy troops in the [[Millerovo]] area. The aviation of the [[Italian Army in the Soviet Union|ARMIR]] was withdrawn on 18 January, bringing 30 C.200 and nine C.202 fighters back to Italy and leaving 15 unserviceable aircraft behind. A total of 66 Italian aircraft had been lost on the Eastern Front – against, according to official figures, 88 victories claimed during 17 months of action in that theatre.<ref name= "Bergström p. 122.">Bergström 2007, p. 122.</ref>

A summary of the Italian expeditionary force operations included 2,557 offensive flights (of which 511 with bombs drops), 1,310 strafing attacks, and 1,938 escort missions, with the loss of 15 C.200s overall. The top-scoring unit was 362<sup>a</sup> ''Squadriglia'', commanded by [[Captain (land)|''Capitano'']]  Germano La Ferla, which claimed 30 Soviet aircraft shot down and 13 destroyed on the ground.<ref name= "de Marchi p. 8.">de Marchi 1994, p. 8.</ref>

===After the armistice===
Following the signing of the armistice, which resulted in Italy's withdrawal from the Axis, only 33 C.200s remained serviceable.<ref name = "catt 9"/> Shortly thereafter, 23 ''Saettas'' were transferred to Allied airfields in southern Italy, and flown for a short time by pilots of the [[Italian Co-Belligerent Air Force]]. In mid-1944, the C.200s of Southern Italy were transferred to the Leverano Fighter School. A lack of spare parts had made maintenance increasingly difficult, but the type continued to be used for advanced training until 1947.<ref name = "catt 9"/> A small number of C.200s were also flown by the pro-[[Nazi Germany|German]] [[Aeronautica Nazionale Repubblicana|National Republican Air Force]], based in northern Italy. The latter was only recorded as using the type for a training aircraft but using them for combat operations.<ref name = "catt 9"/>

==Variants==
The ''Saetta'' underwent very few modifications during its service life. Aside from the switch to an open canopy, later aircraft were fitted with an upgraded radio and an armoured seat. Some late-production ''Saettas'' were built with the MC.202 ''Serie'' VII wing, thus adding two {{cvt|7.7|mm|3}} [[Breda-SAFAT machine gun]]s to the armament. The four (including two proposed) C.200 derivatives were:
;M.C. 200 (prototypes)
:Two prototypes fitted with the {{cvt|623|kW}} [[Fiat A.74]] R.C.38 radial piston engine.
;M.C. 200
:Single-seat interceptor fighter, fighter-bomber aircraft. Production version.
;M.C.200bis
:Breda-proposed modification with a [[Piaggio P.XIX]] R.C.45 engine producing {{cvt|880|kW}} at {{cvt|4500|m}}. Converted from an early production C.200. First flight 11 April 1942 from [[Milano-Bresso]], flown by Luigi Acerbi. The aircraft was then fitted with a larger propeller and a revised engine cowling. Top speed in trials was {{cvt|535|km/h}}. It did not enter production, as the C.200 had been replaced by more advanced designs.
;M.C.200AS
:Version adapted to North African Campaign by the fitting of dust filters. Hard points were introduced in the wing as a field modification which permitted two bombs of up to 352lb (160kg) to be caried. AS stood for Africa Settentrionale (‘North Africa’).
;M.C.200CB
:Fighter-bomber (cacciabombardiere) version with {{cvt|320|kg}} of bombs or two external [[fuel tank]]s (as fighter escort).
;M.C.201
:As an answer to a 5 January 1938 request by the Regia Aeronautica for a C.200 replacement, Aermacchi proposed the C.201, which had a revised fuselage, a fully enclosed pressurized cabin, and an [[Isotta Fraschini]] Astro A.140RC.40 engine (licensed variant of the French [[Gnome-Rhone Mistral Major]] GR.14Krs) generating 870 cv (''cheval vapeur'', or metric [[horsepower]]). But later the choice was for the Fiat A.76 R.C.40 engine with {{cvt|750|kW}}. Two prototypes were ordered. The first flew on 10 August 1940, with the less powerful A.74 engine.<ref>Sgarlato 2008, p. 19.</ref> Although Macchi estimated a top speed of {{cvt|550|km/h}} only 312mph was attained on test, work on the two prototypes was cancelled after Fiat abandoned the troublesome A.76 engine.

==Operators==
;{{flagcountry|Nazi Germany}}
* ''[[Luftwaffe]]'' operated some captured aircraft.
;{{flag|Kingdom of Italy}}
* ''[[Regia Aeronautica]]''
* [[Italian Co-Belligerent Air Force]]
;{{ITA}}
* [[Italian Air Force]]  operated some aircraft as trainers until 1947

==Specifications (Macchi C.200 early series)==
[[File:Macchi MC 200 Saetta.svg|thumb|Macchi C.200 Saetta drawing]]
{{Aircraft specs
|ref=''The Macchi MC.200,<ref name = "catt 12">Cattaneo 1966, p. 12.</ref> The Complete Book of Fighters,<ref name="Green">{{cite book |last1=Green |first1=William |title=The Complete Book of Fighters |year=1994 |publisher=Salamander |location=London |isbn=1-85833-777-1 |last2=Swanborough |first2=Gordon |pages=358–360}}</ref> Aer. Macchi C.200 Saetta, Aerei militari, Schede tecniche aerei militari italiani e storia degli aviatori<ref name="aluomini"/>''
|prime units?=met
<!--
        General characteristics
-->
|crew=1
|length m=8.25
|span m=10.58
|height m=3.05
|wing area sqm=16.82
|aspect ratio=<!-- sailplanes -->
|airfoil='''root:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA 23018 (modified)]]; '''tip:''' [[NACA airfoil|NACA 23009 (modified)]]<ref name="Selig">{{cite web |last1=Lednicer |first1=David |title=The Incomplete Guide to Airfoil Usage |url=https://m-selig.ae.illinois.edu/ads/aircraft.html |website=m-selig.ae.illinois.edu |access-date=16 April 2019}}</ref>
|empty weight kg=1964
|gross weight kg=2200
|max takeoff weight kg=2395
|fuel capacity=
|more general=
<!--
        Powerplant
-->
|eng1 number=1
|eng1 name=[[Fiat A.74 R.C.38]]
|eng1 type=14-cylinder air-cooled [[radial engine]]
|eng1 hp=870
|eng1 note=at 2,520 rpm for takeoff

|prop blade number=3
|prop name=variable-pitch propeller
|prop dia m=<!-- propeller aircraft -->
|prop dia ft=<!-- propeller aircraft -->
|prop dia in=<!-- propeller aircraft -->
|prop dia note=
<!--
        Performance
-->
|max speed kmh=504
|max speed note= at {{cvt|4500|m}}
|cruise speed kmh=
|stall speed kmh=128
|never exceed speed kmh=
|minimum control speed kmh=
|range km=570
|combat range km=
|ferry range km=
|endurance=<!-- if range unknown -->
|ceiling m=8900
|g limits=<!-- aerobatic -->
|roll rate=<!-- aerobatic -->
|climb rate ms=15.3
|time to altitude={{cvt|5000|m}} in 5 minutes 52 seconds
|wing loading kg/m2=131.7
|fuel consumption kg/km=
|power/mass={{cvt|0.286|kW/kg}}
|more performance=
* '''Take-off run:''' {{cvt|260|m}}
* '''Landing run:''' {{cvt|300|m}}
<!--
        Armament
-->
|armament=
* 2 × {{cvt|12.7|mm|3}} [[Breda-SAFAT]] machine guns, 370 rpg
* Some aircraft were field-modified to carry up to 8 × {{cvt|15|kg}}, 2 × {{cvt|50|kg}}, 2 × {{cvt|100|kg}} or 2 × {{cvt|150|kg}} bombs under the wings
}}

==See also==
{{aircontent
|related=
* [[Macchi C.202]]
* [[Macchi C.205]]
|similar aircraft=
* [[Curtiss P-36 Hawk]]
* [[Fiat G.50 Freccia]]
* [[Grumman F4F Wildcat]]
* [[IAR 80]]
* [[Mitsubishi A6M Zero]]
* [[Nakajima Ki-43]]
* [[Reggiane Re.2000]]
* [[Seversky P-35]]
* [[Weiss Manfréd WM-23 Ezüst Nyíl]]
|see also=
|lists=
* [[List of aircraft of World War II]]
* [[List of Regia Aeronautica aircraft used in World War II]]
}}

==Notes==
{{Commons category|Macchi C.200 Saetta}}

===Citations===
{{Reflist}}

===Bibliography===
* Bergström, Christer. ''Stalingrad – The Air Battle: 1942 through January 1943''. Hinckley UK: Midland, 2007. {{ISBN|978-1-85780-276-4}}.
* Bergström, Christer – Andrey Dikov – Vlad Antipov ''Black Cross Red Star – Air War over the Eastern Front Volume 3 – Everything for Stalingrad''. Hamilton MA, Eagle Editions, 2006. {{ISBN|0-9761034-4-3}}.
* Bignozzi, Giorgio. ''Aerei d'Italia {{in lang|it}}''. Milan: Milano Edizioni E.C.A., 2000.
* Brindley, John F. "Caproni Reggiane Re 2001 Falco II, Re 2002 Ariete & Re 2005 Sagittario." ''Aircraft in Profile Vol. 13''. Berkshire, UK: Profile Publications, 1973. {{ISBN|0-85383-022-3}}.
* Caruana, Richard J. ''Victory in the Air''. Malta: Modelaid International Publications, 1999. {{ISBN|1-871767-12-1}}.
* Cattaneo, Gianni. ''Aer. Macchi C.200 (Ali d'Italia no. 8)'' (in Italian/English). Torino, Italy: La Bancarella Aeronautica, 1997 (reprinted 2000).
* Cattaneo, Gianni. ''The Macchi MC.200 (Aircraft in Profile number 64)''. London: Profile Publications, 1966. No ISBN.
* Cull, Brian and Frederick Galea. ''Gladiators over Malta: The Story of Faith, Hope and Charity''. Malta: Wise Owl Publication, 2008. {{ISBN|978-99932-92-78-4}}.
* De Marchi, Italo and Pietro Tonizzo. ''Macchi MC. 200 / FIAT CR. 32'' {{in lang|it}}. Modena, Italy: Edizioni Stem Mucchi, 1994.
* Di Terlizzi, Maurizio. ''Macchi MC 200 Saetta, pt. 1 (Aviolibri Special 5)'' (in Italian/English). Rome: IBN Editore, 2001.
* Di Terlizzi, Maurizio. ''Macchi MC 200 Saetta, pt. 2 (Aviolibri Special 9)'' (in Italian/English). Rome: IBN Editore, 2004.
* Duma, Antonio. ''Quelli del Cavallino Rampante – Storia del 4<sup>o</sup> Stormo Caccia Francesco Baracca''  {{in lang|it}}. Roma: Aeronautica Militare – Ufficio Storico, 2007. NO ISBN.
* Ethell, Jeffrey L. ''Aerei della II Guerra Mondiale''{{in lang|it}}. Milan: A. Vallardi/Collins Jane's, 1996. {{ISBN|88-11-94026-5}}.
* Ethell, Jeffrey L. ''Aircraft of World War II''. Glasgow: HarperCollins/Jane's, 1995. {{ISBN|0-00-470849-0}}.
* {{cite journal |last1=Fernandez|first1=José|title=Le Macchi MC.200 (2ème partie) |journal=Avions: Toute l'aéronautique et son histoire |date=June 1993 |issue=4|pages=2–4 |trans-title=|language=French |issn=1243-8650}}
* Green, William. "The Macchi-Castoldi Series". ''Famous Fighters of the Second World War-2''. London, Macdonald, 1957 (reprinted 1962, 1975). {{ISBN|0-356-08334-9}}.
* Green, William and Gordon Swanborough. ''The Great Book of Fighters''. St. Paul, Minnesota: MBI Publishing, 2001. {{ISBN|0-7603-1194-3}}.
* Gunston, Bill. ''The Illustrated Directory of Fighting Aircraft of World War II''. London: Salamander Books Limited, 1988. {{ISBN|1-84065-092-3}}.
* {{cite book |last = Lawrence |first = Joseph |title = The Observer's Book Of Airplanes |location = London and New York |publisher = Frederick Warne & Co |year = 1945}}
* Lembo, Daniele. "I brutti Anatroccoli della Regia" {{in lang|it}}. ''Aerei Nella Storia n.26'', December 2000.
* Malizia, Nicola. ''Aermacchi, Bagliori di guerra (Macchi MC.200 – MC.202 – MC.205/V)'' {{in lang|it}}. Rome, Italy: IBN Editore, 2006.
* Marcon, Tullio. "Hurricane in Mediterraneo" {{in lang|it}}. ''Storia Militare n. 80'', May 2000.
* Mondey, David. ''The Hamlyn Concise Guide to Axis Aircraft of World War II''. London: Bounty Books, 2006. {{ISBN|0-7537-1460-4}}.
* Munson, Kenneth. ''Fighters and Bombers of World War II''. London: Blandford Press, 1969, first edition 1960. {{ISBN|0-907408-37-0}}.
* Neulen, Hans Werner. ''In the Skies of Europe.'' Ramsbury, Marlborough, UK: The Crowood Press, 2000. {{ISBN|1-86126-799-1}}.
* {{cite book |last=Palermo |first=Michele |year=2014 |title=Eagles over Gazala: Air Battles in North Africa, May–June 1942 |publisher=IBN Editore |location=Roma |isbn=978-88-7565-168-8}}
* Sgarlato, Nico. ''Aermacchi C.202 Folgore'' {{in lang|it}}. Parma, Italy: Delta Editrice, 2008.
* Spick, Mike. ''Allied Fighter Aces of World War II''. London: Greenhill Books, 1997. {{ISBN|1-85367-282-3}}.

{{Macchi aircraft}}
{{Authority control}}

[[Category:Macchi aircraft|C.200]]
[[Category:1930s Italian fighter aircraft]]
[[Category:Aircraft first flown in 1937]]
[[Category:Low-wing aircraft]]
[[Category:Aircraft with retractable conventional landing gear]]
[[Category:Single-engined tractor aircraft]]
[[Category:Single-engined piston aircraft]]