Still carrying the FE-498 "Foreign Evaluation" markings applied at Freeman Field in 1946.

One of two C.202 survivors, on display at the National Air and Space Museum. The Folgore was a successor to the C.200 Saeta. Using a German Daimler-Benz DB 601 in-line engine, the Folgore was superior to the P-40 and Hurricane in North Africa. When supplies dried up, a license-built copy of the DB 601 called the Alfa-Romeo R.A.1000 R.C.41-I Monsone (Monsoon) powered the Folgore. This Folgore is painted in the markings of 90° Squadriglia, 10° Gruppo, 4° Stormo from North Africa.

Aeronautica Macchi MM7762 seen here in factory colours at Varese in 1941. Scanned from an original photograph from my collection, photographer unknown.

The Folgone was not only sleek and elegant but also an extremely able WWII Italian fighter. This replica is on display at this super museum.

Preserved wearing the markings of 90 Squadriglia, 10 Gruppo, 4 Stormo, circa 1942.

Captured at Chinisia, Sicily in June 1943 and named Whacky Macchi, this Folgore was repainted in spurious Italian markings in the USA. The photo was probably taken at Wright Field, Ohio. The aircraft now belongs to the Smithsonian collection. Photo from: San Diego Air & Space Museum

War prize FE-300 shipped to the USA in 1943 for testing. Actual history is murky and the cn is unknown, but it was marked for preservation in 1946.

One of two MC.202s still in existence, displayed in an operational setting. Despite some shortcomings it was a feared opponent, especially in dogfights. In full markings of the 4°Stormo, which adopted both the name and stallion emblem of WW1 ace Francesco Baracca. Serial not seen on the outside.

Painted as MM7844, but is actually MM9667. 'Baracca' is a unit designation.

Described as the best Italian WWII fighter to serve in large numbers, the Folgore was a development of the MC.200 with a Daimler-Benz DB 601 engine. It was armed with only two heavy machine guns though. This is a Serie VII aircraft with a wing suitable for two more light machine guns, but these were rarely fitted. Photo from: San Diego Air & Space Museum