J-20/Héja I 'Re 2000 Export Birds'

Description

The first flight of the prototype took place on 24 May 1939 at Reggio Emilia, reaching a maximum speed of 515 km/h at 5,000 m. Only five series were used in the Regia Aeronautica, including the prototype. These aircraft were assigned to the Sezione Sperimentale Reggiane of the 74a Squadriglia, based in Sicily and which was later renamed 377a Squadriglia Autonoma Caccia Terrestre, before receiving nine other Re 2000s Serie III. This squadron fought in North Africa, Malta and Pantelleria, mainly in the role of attack. The last Re 2000 came out of the factory in September 1942. The Re 2000 was used in Italy only in a squadron operating in Sicily between 1941 and 1942 and as an embarked aircraft. Hungary bought 70 copies and built 192 under licence, while Sweden bought 60 aircraft, which remained in line until 1946. After careful testing of the aircraft, the British ordered 300 copies in January 1940, which was obviously cancelled with the entry into the war of Italy. The tanks of the Re 2000 were located in the wings, which led the Italian officials to refuse it considering that it made him too vulnerable for a hunter. First flight: May 24, 1939 In service: 1941 Cruising speed: 440 km/h Maximum speed: 530 km/h