The prototype of the Italian fighter aircraft Reggiane Re 2001 Delta (serial number 9920) at a military airfield. Mediterranean theater of operations, World War II.
The first flight of the prototype Reggiane Re 2001 Delta (MM.9920) flew on 12 September 1942. During the tests (held at the Guidonia air base from November 2, 1942), the prototype reached a speed of 523 km/h at an altitude of 5600 m and climbed 3000 meters in 4 minutes 11 seconds, and 6000 m in 10 minutes 30 seconds. January 27, 1942, during tests for rate of climb, at an altitude of 7800 m, the engine overheated and stopped, and when trying to restart it exploded. Beretta pilot escaped by parachute, but the aircraft was completely destroyed. The restoration of the aircraft was delayed, and later, the Ministry of Aviation of Fascist Italy completely canceled the order for the Re.2001 “Delta”.
The Re.2001 “Delta” photo source: www.finn.it.