The Fiat CR.42 was the final single-seat fighter biplane to get produced, and saw its combat debut when the Belgian air force sent its fleet into action during the German invasion of the Low Countries on May 10th, 1940.

Though it was gradually replaced by more modern fighters, the CR.42 was initially heavily involved in fighting in North Africa, and it continued as a point of defense and filled ground support roles until the end of the war.

This book examines the extensive employment of the Italian fighter plane during the course of World War II, drawing on research from a range of sources.