Fiat G.55 Centauro Evaluated by Britain
The Fiat G.55 Centauro was one of the most capable Italian fighters of the Second World War, and its post-armistice evaluation by Britain confirmed that assessment. Designed by Giuseppe Gabrielli and produced by Fiat for the Regia Aeronautica, the G.55 formed part of Italy’s “Serie 5” generation. Like its counterparts, it used the Daimler-Benz DB 605A engine, built under licence in Italy. The same powerplant equipped the German Bf 109G, enabling meaningful comparison.
Following its capture Fiat G.55 MM.91150 was tested at the Central Fighter Establishment at Tangmere where it was given the RAF serial VF204. Unfortunately it was damaged in transit and never flew in the UK.
