Manufacturer
Fiat Aviazione

Year
1952

Previous versions
- Fiat CR.77 Fuciliere A
- Fiat CR.78 Fuciliere I

Introduction
The Fiat CR.79 Fuciliere II emerged at the beginning of the Cold War, during a technological and doctrinal transition period for the world’s air forces. It was intended to fill the gap between Italy’s last postwar propeller-driven fighters and the new generation of jet aircraft such as the North American F-86 Sabre and the upcoming Fiat G.91. Conceived between 1952–1953, this aircraft aimed to provide Italy with a versatile, affordable, and adaptable fighter without relying entirely on the still-developing jet technology.

History
The CR.79’s design was directly based on the experience gained with the CR.78, but it featured a stronger and more refined airframe, with larger wings and improved aerodynamics to make full use of its new turboprop engine. With a power-to-weight ratio of 1.074 and a low wing loading of 26.1 lbs/ft², it could rival several subsonic jet fighters of its era in terms of maneuverability, making it appealing as a transitional aircraft.

During testing, the Aeronautica Militare considered it a light interceptor and close air support aircraft for Italy’s territorial defense. Its main advantage was its lower cost, simple maintenance, and ability to operate from short runways, unlike the early jets that required well-prepared airfields. However, despite positive evaluations of its maneuverability and excellent performance in close-quarters dogfights, the global shift toward pure jet-powered aircraft limited its production run.

The CR.79 was fielded in small numbers within secondary air defense squadrons around the Mediterranean and also served as an advanced trainer for pilots who would eventually transition to the F-86 and later the G.91. Even so, it left a mark as one of the last European attempts to perfect the concept of advanced propeller/turboprop fighters in the face of aviation’s rapid jet transition.

In hindsight, the CR.79 is remembered as the last of its lineage: an aircraft born on the threshold of two eras, showcasing Italian ingenuity in extending the philosophy of light, highly maneuverable fighters, while at the same time pointing toward the modernity that would arrive with the G.91.

Options
AG1 - Open the airplane cabin
AG2 - Airbrakes
AG7 - Ejection seat

Weapons
- 1 × DEFA cannon
- 2 x Browning M2
- 4 × AIM-9B Sidewinder