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Derived from the Fiat G.55 fighter of World War 11,
the G.59 prototype (converted from a G.55) first flew in 1948. The type
entered service with the Italian Air Force in 1950 and was built in
several versions including the G.59-1A single seater and G.59-1B two
seater. The G.59-2A (30 built) single seater had four 20mm cannon and
wing racks for bombs. The G.59-2B(19 built) was a two seater. The
G.59-4A(30 built) first flown in 1951 had a single seat, bubble canopy
and cut-down rear fuselage. The two seat version was the G.59-4B(85
built). As well as Italy the type saw service with the air arms of
Argentina where one was used for evaluation, and Syria who used 26
G.59-2A’s in the light attack role. Two G.59’s remain airworthy
including the aircraft illustrated.
VH-LIX
c/n 179
Italy
2 seat military trainer first flown in 1951
Engine: 1490hp(1111kW) Rolls-Royce Merlin 500
Length: 31’1"(9.47m)
Height: 12’4"(3.76m)Wingspan: 38’10.5"(11.85m)
No.built: 10 Range: 880miles(1416km)
Cruising speed: 275mph(442kmh) Empty weight: 6041lb(2740kg)
Maximum take-off weight: 7496lb(3400kg)
This aircraft was subsequently
modified in 1994 as a single seater and is shown below in this
configuration.
VH-LIX
c/n 179 |
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