Caproni Ca.3 At War Volume 2
By Chris Banyai-Riepl
Author: Gregory Alegi
Publisher: Albatros Publications
ISBN: 978-1-906798-13-0
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 32
The newest Datafile picks up where the last one left off, with the second part of the story on the Caproni Ca.3. This book covers the operational history of the type, starting with the initial deliverys in late 1915 and early 1916. As one of the first strategic bombers, tactics had to be learned, such as mutual support via tight formations. Operations against the Austrians highlighted these issues, and the Italians quickly learned to fly in close formation, as well as add a rear gunner position above the center engine. The stability of the Caproni saw it deployed to Albania and Libya, while additional operations pitted the plane against naval targets. Post-war, the aircraft continued to operate in Africa, taking part in missions in both Libya and Eritrea. The Ca.3 remained with training units throughout the 1920s, with the last one possibly flying on into 1933-34.
The interesting text covers these operations in detail, and really highlights the diverse operations of the Caproni Ca.3. Of course, this being a Datafile, there is much more than just the text here. First up are the period photos, of which there are many. Quite a few of these are printed large, allowing for a great amount of detail to be seen. Further accentuating the detail aspect is a handful of photos of a flying replica currently under construction. These photos show internal structures and such, but more interestingly is the fact that this will be a flying replica. Seeing a Ca.3 take to the skies again will be quite impressive, and worth a trip once it is finished. Of course the book is completed with the usual high quality scale drawings by Martin Digmayer and color profile illustrations by Ronny Bar.
While the German Gotha bombers tend to get the most coverage when the subject of WWI strategic bombers comes up, the Caproni Ca.3 was a very capable and durable aircraft that deserves more attention. This two volume set by Albatros Publications, therefore, is very welcome, and hopefully will increase focus on this important and historical aircraft. My thanks to Albatros Publications for the review copy.