World War II: Bombers

Despite a rich cultural (Douhet) and experiential background, gained from the Libyan war (1911) onwards, the Italian Royal Air Force does not comprehend the importance of ‘strategic bombing’ and, consequently, fails to insist on the development of a heavy bomber (four engines) capable of carrying large quantities of bombs over long distances. The typical Italian bomber is of medium size, such as the SIAI S.79, the Cant Z.1007bis (three-engined) or the Fiat BR.20 (two-engined), the latter with scarce results. Piaggio only designs the P.108B (four-engined) that, produced in just a few specimens, has no effect on the conflict. The Italian Royal Air Force also lacks ‘tactical’ support of ground troops (fighter bombers) and is forced to use the German Stukas (Junkers Ju.87) that the pilots nickname ‘Picchiatello’ (“crazy nosediver”).