REGGIANE Re-2003 1st prototype -1943

Description

In the early stages of WW2, the Regia Aeronautica‘s reconnaissance capabilities depended mainly on the Breda Ba.37 type. These machines, being of a biplane configuration, were not able to stand successfully against the enemy‘s fighter planes. Thus, the Regia sought a more up-to -date replacement machine and the Reggiane company was asked to develop a significantly faster reconnaissance aircraft. As a basis for this new design, a Reggiane Re.2000 fighter plane which possessed quite reasonable performance was used. The first prototype of the new version was developed directly from its fighter predecessor. The new plane´s performance seemed to be acceptable, however, yet another reconnaissance type was subsequently developed using more powerful Re.2002 fighter type and a production was also ordered. It never realised, though, as Italy capitulated on Sept 8, 1943. (Scale : 1/72e)