Fiat BR.20 Cicogna

Common card · No. 377114

The Fiat BR.20 Cicogna ('stork') was a low-wing twin-engine medium bomber that was developed and manufactured by Italian aircraft company Fiat Aviazione. It holds the distinction of being the first all-metal Italian bomber to enter service; it was regarded as one of the most modern medium bombers in the world. The origins of the BR.20 were in a request issued by the Regia Aeronautica (Italian Royal Air Force) during 1934 for a new medium bomber capable of high speeds, long range, and satisfactory payload, reliability, and flight characteristics compared to contemporaries. Among the companies that chose to respond was Fiat, which completed its design for the competition during 1935. On 10 February 1936, the first prototype (serial number M.M.274) conducted its maiden flight. Flight testing proceeded at a rapid pace; during September 1936, initial deliveries of the type commenced to the Regia Aeronautica. During summer 1937, the BR.20 received its baptism of fire when a number were operated...

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