A touch of history:
Originally designed as a civil aircraft by SIAI-Marchetti in the 1930s, the S.M.79 Sparviero set important speed records during this period. With its classic low-wing, three-engine configuration, its structure combined wood, canvas and metal. Later converted into military variants, it was used extensively by the Italian Regia Aeronautica during the Second World War, first as a bomber in the Mediterranean theatre and then as a torpedo bomber.
Distinguishable by its "hump" behind the cockpit and powered by three 750-horsepower Alfa Romeo 126 RC34 star engines, the Sparviero could reach a top speed of 430 km/h. Although other more modern aircraft later replaced its bomber role, the Sparviero proved extremely effective, particularly in maritime torpedo operations, thanks to experienced crews, throughout the duration of the conflict.
