While other countries shifted their production to monoplanes, Fiat continued by designing an improved version of the CR-32 biplane fighter. The landing gear was faired for better aerodynamics and a less vulnerable air cooled engine was chosen. Hungary purchased between 50-60 units, first deployed in Yugoslavia and later in the USSR during 1941.

Fiat CR-42 Fighter in Hungarian Air Force

Introduced in 1938, the Hungarian Weiss Manfred WM-21 or Solyom (Falcon) was a more powerful and faster version of the Fokker C.V biplane. With a total of 128 units built, it was used for reconnaissance and light bomber duties until 1942, when it was reduced to a trainer and liaison-plane status. 

WM-21 Sólyom (Falcon), Hungary

Lined up here in Hollywood style, the CR-32 was a well-known Italian biplane during the 1930's, liked by its crews for being maneuverable and well-built. The Royal Hungarian Air Force acquired a total of 76 CR.32's in 1935 and 1936. On 29 June, 1941,  the first aerial combat over Hungarian territory took place, when seven Tupolev S2 bombers attacked the railway station of Csap and were intercepted by Fiat CR.32's from 2/3 Fighter squadron, shooting down three of the raiders, at no loss to themselves.