The Macchi C.205 The Veltro was Italy’s most advanced piston-engine fighter of World War II, developed by Aeronautica Macchi as a direct evolution of the C.202 Folgore.
Designed by Mario Castoldi, the Veltro retained the aerodynamic elegance of its predecessor but was powered by the more potent Daimler-Benz DB 605A engine, license-built in Italy as the Fiat RA.1050 RC.58 Tifone.
This upgrade gave the aircraft a top speed of approximately 642 km/h (399 mph), an improved climb rate, and enhanced firepower.
The C.205 entered combat in early 1943, serving with the Regia Aeronautica during the defence of Sicily and mainland Italy.
It proved highly competitive against Allied fighters such as the P-51 Mustang and Supermarine Spitfire Mk IX.
Italian pilots flying the Veltro achieved notable successes, including a celebrated engagement on 2 August 1943, when six C.205s downed six American fighters with only one loss.
Following Italy’s armistice in September 1943, the aircraft was split among three factions:
The Aeronautica Nazionale Repubblicana (ANR) continued operating the C.205 under German control in Northern Italy.
The Italian Co-Belligerent Air Force flew a limited number on the Allied side.
The Luftwaffe evaluated and used several aircraft in secondary roles.
Despite its excellent performance, only around 262–265 units were built due to industrial constraints and wartime disruption.
The Veltro remained in service postwar with Italy and Egypt into the late 1940s.
