INTERMEDIATE BUILD
Building the newly tooled 1/32 Fiat CR.42 Falco from ICM is a delight for Peter Fearon.
Designed by Celestino Rosatelli as a development of his successful CR.32 fighter, which had performed well during the Spanish Civil War, the Fiat CR.42 Falco (falcon) first flew in May 1938 and entered service just a year later.
Quite why the Italian engineer persisted with the sesquiplane concept (one-and-a-half wing, ie with a much shorter lower wing) when all other major powers had successfully developed monoplanes, which were clearly superior, is the subject of many theories – though these are not appropriate to explore here.
Safe to say, the CR.42 was the apotheosis of the sesquiplane fighter design, was strong and manoeuvrable and remained in production and frontline service until 1944. It was operated in all climates by a range of nations and was universally liked by its pilots. While its limitations as a fighter during the 1940s were soon exposed in combat, the type proved more successful as a ground-attack platform and this factor contributed to its relative longevity.
Above: A range of Eduard aftermarket products is available. The seat belt is an essential as none is provided in the kit. Cockpit detailing is a…
