Flying Machines 1/48 Reggiane Re.2005 Sagittario (Archer) by Jean Barby

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The culmination of a design formula initiated with the Re.2000, the Reggiane Re.2005 combined great speed, maneuverability and heavy armament that could well have tilted the balance of air power in the Mediterranean. However like so many good Italian war progammes of the time, the industrial output of these powerful machines never reached any significant numbers to have influenced the final outcome of the war. Following the Italian Armistice, surviving aircraft were incorporated in the Luftwaffe and ANR, some purportedly having been used in the defense of Romanian oil fields while others were reported to have been in use in the defense of Berlin during the final phases of WWII.

Construction The Saggitario has always been my favourite machine. The flying Machine is also a great kit and requires a minimum of work to get a perfect rendition of this beauty. The only improvement I did was scratchbuild the flaps with the correct shape so typical of the Reggiane family. Using photos and plans, good old plasiticard and liquid cement and that's it. The camo scheme was completed in Verde Oliva Scuro, typical of the period and Grigio Azzuro Chiaro, decals are from Sky Models. A truly enjoyable model. Recommended.

Technical Data Aircraft: Caproni-Reggaine Re.2005 Manufacturer: Officine Meccaniche 'Reggaine' S.p.A. (Caproni) Type: Fighter Year: 1943 Engine: Damiler Benz DB 605A, 12-cyclinder V, liquid-cooled, 1,475hp Wingspan: 36 ft 1 in (11.0 m) Length: 28 ft 8 in (8.73 m) Height: 10 ft 4 in (3.15 m) Weight: 7,970 lb (3,610 kg) (Loaded) Maximum Speed: 421 mph (678 km/h) at 22,800 ft (6,949 m) Ceiling: 39,400 ft (12,000 m) Range: 780 miles (1,250 km) Armament: 2 x 12.7mm (0.5in) SAFAT machine guns; 3 x 20mm cannons Crew: 1 Additional Images:

June, 2006 STORMO! © 2006