#macchimc205

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Macchi C.205 of the Regia Aeronautica

The Macchi C.205 entered frontline service with the Regia Aeronautica in February 1943. It quickly proved to be one of Italy’s most capable fighters of the war, excelling in interception and air superiority roles.

Early operations included convoy escort and defensive missions over the Mediterranean, particularly during the fighting around Pantelleria and Tunisia. Following the Armistice, only six C.205Vs were left in the south to join the Co-Belligerent Air Force. All other C.205Vs were in the north and fought with the ANR.

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Macchi C.205 Captured by Australia

During the Allied invasion of Sicily in mid-1943, No. 3 Squadron Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) encountered abandoned Axis aircraft on captured airfields. Among these was a Macchi C.205 (MM9377), found on 24 August 1943 at Catania Main airfield and taken to Agnone in Sicily. RAAF ground crews restored it to flying condition and gave in the squadron code CV-V.

At least one Australian pilot, Flying Officer A. Dawkins, flew the aircraft in September 1943.

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Macchi C.205 in Egyptian Service

Post-war, the Macchi C.205 found a significant export customer in the Egyptian Air Force. Between 1948 and 1949, Egypt acquired approximately 62 refurbished aircraft, many converted from C.202 airframes.

These aircraft saw limited combat during the 1948 Arab–Israeli War.