Italian Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 Sparviero in flight

The Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 “Sparviero” (Sparrowhawk) was an Italian medium-bomber with three engines, developed in 1934 and employed in service of the Regia Aeronautica during the entire duration of World War II.

The “Sparviero” had various uses, being employed as a transport aircraft, a medium bomber and a torpedo bomber. There was also a drone version developed, but it never became operational.

The “Sparviero” was arguably the most prolific and most well known Italian bomber during World War Two, despite the fact that by 1940 it was already starting to become outdated. Approximately 1300 aircrafts were built, the most out of any Italian bomber, and it was deployed successfully in every theater of war in which Italy fought. It remained in service until 1952.

Currently there are two intact Savoia-Marchetti SM.79 “Sparviero” remaining, donated by Lebanon to the Italian Air Force and showcased in the Trento and Bracciano museums.

Book suggestions ⤵️

📖 Courage Alone: The Italian Air Force 1940-1943 (Chris Dunning, 1999)

📖 Savoia-Marchetti S.79 Sparviero Torpedo-Bomber Units (Marco Mattioli, 2014)