It was a real delight to get this latest book from the growing Mushroom Models Publications library. This one is in their orange series and is on the Italian Macchi C.200 Saeta. The Saeta was one of the R.A.s first monoplane, retractable landing gear fighters. It was chosen in a competition with the Ro.51 and the Fiat G.50. Though superior to the G.50 in most aspects, the G.50 was also chosen for production while the Ro.51 was hopelessly outclassed.

Though originally built with a fully enclosed canopy, there were issues in getting it open at speed, which would make it difficult for a pilot to bail out if there were issues. As a result, like the G.50, a more open cockpit was developed for the aircraft and though it changed in design during production, was a staple of the aircraft throughout its production life.

Armed with twin 12.5mm machine guns, these were fairly capable guns and in combat with most aircraft during the war, were sufficient. Italian production rates being what they were, there were never really enough aircraft to meet all the needs. The airframe, however, was a good one and was the basis for the more capable C.202 and C.205 aircraft. Several C.200 aircraft survived after the Italian capitulation in September 1943 and served on both sides, though normally as trainers.

As with all books in this series, in addition to a strong history section, there are sections that show the inside story of the aircraft. Thankfully, there are two fully restored airframes; one in the US at the USAF museum and the other in Italy at the Italian AF museum. This means a raft of well taken color images of various parts of the aircraft.

One major bonus to this book is a lot of period color images. Apparently the Italians took advantage of the then-new color film and we are able to see these planes as they really were. In addition to all the technical information, you will find the usual bevy of color profiles, appropriately sprinkled through the book in the appropriate areas. A full series of plans in both 1/72 and 1/48 scale round out another superb package.

Like other MMP books, this one is all any modeler or aircraft enthusiast needs on the type. Another outstanding edition and one I give my highest recommendation.

August 2012

Review book courtesy of MMP Books, where you can order your copy of this and many other superb aviation and modeling books. The book is also available through Casemate Publishing in the US, Orca in Europe, and Platypus Publications in Australia.

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