Macchi C.202, MM9476, 90-4
History
The C.202 Folgore was developed by Aeronautica Macchi as a successor to the earlier C.200 Saetta. It was powered by the German Daimler-Benz DB 601 engine, a liquid-cooled inline V-12 engine, which significantly improved its performance compared to previous Italian fighters. The C.202 was noted for its agility and effectiveness in combat, particularly in the North African theater, where it was employed by the Regia Aeronautica (Royal Italian Air Force) against Allied forces.
After the war, two C.202 aircraft were sent to the United States for evaluation. MM9476 was among these and was later transferred to the Smithsonian Institution in 1974. With assistance from the Italian Air Force and Aeronautica Macchi, the aircraft underwent restoration and was painted in the markings of the 90° Squadriglia, 10° Gruppo, 4° Stormo, circa 1942, reflecting its operational role in North Africa.
Since its restoration, MM9476 has been prominently displayed in the National Air and Space Museum's World War II Aviation gallery. It is positioned above the museum's diorama depicting World War II aviation, alongside other notable aircraft such as the North American P-51D Mustang and the Supermarine Spitfire Mk. VIIc