The G.50 was the first Italian all metal monoplane fighter that had an enclosed cockpit and retractable undercarriage.

It first flew in February 1937 and was in service with the Regia Aeronautica by early 1938.

G.50s were also sent to Spain but did not participate in combat.

Early aircraft had problems with fumes accumulating in the cockpit and with poor quality plexiglass.

From the 2nd batch of aircraft, the enclosed cockpit was removed leaving only the windscreen.

At the commencement of the war, the G.50 was underarmed, underpowered and lacked armour for the pilot.

It was more maneuverable than many of its contemporaries and remained in front line service with Italian forces until 1943.

Airfix 1/72 kit completed by Steve Pulbrook in 2015.