Aeronautica Macchi is an Italian aerospace manufacturer founded in 1912, known for producing military aircraft. The company gained prominence during both World Wars, creating notable planes like the Macchi C.202 Folgore, a highly regarded fighter aircraft used by the Italian Air Force. After World War II, Aeronautica Macchi shifted focus to civil aviation and training aircraft. In 1997, it merged with Alenia Aeronautica, becoming part of the larger Leonardo S.p.A. group, which continues to develop advanced aerospace technologies and military aircraft today.