Introduction
The Savoy-Marchetti SM.79 Sparrowhawk was the most significant Italian bomber during the Second World War; however, it achieved its greatest successes as a torpedo bomber in the Mediterranean.
Despite its lightweight construction, it could endure considerable damage and operate with only two of its three engines. Pilots appreciated its maneuverability and speed, while its offensive armament proved to be effective. The aircraft recorded its initial achievements in bombing missions during the Spanish Civil War and conducted numerous torpedo attacks in the Mediterranean, including several against British battleships and aircraft carriers. As a result, it is often regarded as the best land-based torpedo bomber of the conflict.
Design
Its maiden flight occurred on October 8, 1934. Entering service in 1935 with the Regia Aeronautica Italiana, the SM.79 was developed from the transport aircraft SM.73, which dated back to 1934 and retained the three-engine configuration of its predecessor, a monoplane with low wings and a fixed undercarriage. It had a wooden structure and used both metal and wood, with a canvas covering, and was powered by engines ranging from 700 to 1000 horsepower, depending on the adopted variants.
Variants
- SM.79P: Prototype equipped with a 610 hp Piaggio Stella engine.
- SM.79-I: Bomber fitted with Alfa Romeo 125 RC 35 or 126 RC 34 780Â hp engines, capable of carrying more bombs than torpedoes.
- SM.79-II: Specialized torpedo version powered by Piaggio P.IX RC 40 engines 1Â 000Â hp or Fiat A.80 RC 41 engines 1Â 030Â hp, capable of carrying two 450 mm torpedoes.
- SM.79-III: Similar to the SM.79-II but without the ventral gondola and equipped with more extensive defensive armament.
- SM.79C: VIP transport version powered by Piaggio P.XI RC 40 engines and unarmed.
- SM.79B: Twin-engine transport aircraft for export.
- SM.79JR: Version intended for Romania equipped with Junkers Jumo 211Da engines.
- SM.79K: Version for Yugoslavia.
- SM.79T: Long-range VIP transport version.
Engagements
- Spanish Civil War
- Second World War
Operators
Savoy-Marchetti SM.79: The Iconic Italian Bomber of WWII
Introduction
The Savoy-Marchetti SM.79 Sparrowhawk was the most important Italian bomber of the Second World War, although it achieved its most significant successes as aplane torpedo boat in the Mediterranean. Its surprising resilience and versatility as an attacker made it a favorite among the crew.
Despite its lightweight structure, the SM.79 could withstand considerable damage and operate on just two out of its three engines. Pilots appreciated the aircraft for its excellent handling and impressive speed. Its offensive capabilities were remarkable, with the aircraft achieving significant bombing successes during the Spanish Civil War and executing numerous torpedo attacks in the Mediterranean, famously targeting British battleships and aircraft carriers. This combination of attributes ensures its reputation as one of the best land-based torpedo bombers of the war.
Conception
The SM.79’s first flight took place on October 8, 1934, and it entered service in 1935 with the Regia Aeronautica Italiana. The aircraft was derived from the transport plane SM.73, featuring a similar three-engine design common to its predecessor. This monoplan aircraft had low wings and a fixed landing gear, constructed with a combination of wood and metal and covered with wood and canvas.
The range of engines fitted to the SM.79 varied from 700 to 1000 horsepower, depending on the version. This versatility allowed for adaptations in performance, especially concerning speed and load capacity.
Versions of the SM.79
Over its operational lifespan, the SM.79 saw several versions catered to various military roles:
- SM.79P: Prototype model equipped with a 610 hp Piaggio Stella engine.
- SM.79-I: Standard bomber model equipped with Alfa Romeo 125 RC 35 or 126 RC 34 engines (780 hp), capable of carrying bombs and torpedoes.
- SM.79-II: Specialized torpedo bomber equipped with Piaggio P.IX RC 40 engines (1,000 hp) or Fiat A.80 RC 41 engines (1,030 hp), carrying up to two 450 mm torpedoes.
- SM.79-III: Similar to the SM.79-II but without the ventral gondola, featuring enhanced defensive armament.
- SM.79C: VIP transport variant devoid of armament, powered by Piaggio P.XI RC 40 engines.
- SM.79B: Twin-engine transport aircraft offered for export.
- SM.79JR: Variant intended for Romania featuring Junkers Jumo 211Da engines.
- SM.79K: Modified version designed for Yugoslavia.
- SM.79T: A long-range VIP transport version.
Key Engagements
The SM.79 played a vital role in various military campaigns, primarily:
- Spanish Civil War: Leveraged for bombing runs and strategic attacks.
- Second World War: Engaged in multiple theaters across the Mediterranean, showcasing its versatility.
Operators
Throughout its operational history, the SM.79 was utilized by several military operators, notably:
- Regia Aeronautica: The main operator within the Italian Air Force.
- Foreign Forces: Versions were also sold or lent to various countries, including Romania and Yugoslavia, which modified them for their needs.
Performance and Features
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Length | 23.95 m |
| Wingspan | 26.73 m |
| Max Speed | 440 km/h |
| Service Ceiling | 8,500 m |
| Crew | 4-6 personnel |
| Payload Capacity | Up to 1,200 kg of bombs or torpedoes |
Legacy and Influence
The legacy of the SM.79 extends beyond its immediate operational success during World War II. Its design influenced subsequent generations of bombers and reconnaissance aircraft. Pilot accounts praised its effectiveness, durability, and adaptability in various combat scenarios.
Practical Tips for Aviation Enthusiasts
- Research: Investigate the technical specifications and roles of various SM.79 models.
- Visiting Museums: Many aviation museums showcase World War II aircraft, including replicas of the SM.79.
- Documentaries and Literature: Watch documentaries and read books on the SM.79 for a more immersive understanding of its impact.
Conclusion
The Savoy-Marchetti SM.79 remains an iconic representation of Italian engineering during a tumultuous period in history. Its robust design, versatility in operations, and significant impact throughout World War II solidify its status among the most noteworthy bombers of its time.
