The CR.42, or Fiat CR.42 Falco, was an Italian biplane fighter aircraft used during the late 1930s and World War II. Designed by Fiat, it featured a classic biplane configuration with a robust structure and excellent maneuverability. The aircraft was powered by a Bristol Mercury radial engine, allowing it to reach speeds of around 350 km/h (217 mph). Primarily used by the Regia Aeronautica, the CR.42 saw action in various theaters, including the Battle of Britain and North Africa. Despite its outdated design compared to monoplane fighters, it was appreciated for its agility and performance in dogfights, making it a notable aircraft of its time.