Loading of a torpedo Whitehead Motofides 450 mm beneath the fuselage of a SM.79 torpedo bomber of Regia Aeronautica. The first customer of this torpedo in version for the launch from an aircraft, initially developed for the Italian Navy, was the Luftwaffe for its Heinkel He.111 in configuration torpedo bomber with an order for 300 models. The first torpedos for Italian Air Force were taked, afterwards the entry of Italy in war, Juin 1940, from the German orders for just established, at Gorizia's Airport (North East of Italy) with five SM.79 and five crew, the Reparto Sperimentale Siluranti (Experimental Unit Torpedo Bomber). The first important order by Regia Aeronautica to Whitehead, 50 torpedos, was signed at August 1940. Victor Sierra

Torpedo

From an US  Intelligence report on the Italian Savoia-Marchetti SM-79 torpedo bomber and its tactics, (Intelligence Bulletin, January 1943 ):  "Torpedo squadrons are believed to have the highest morale of all units of the Italian Air Force. Their efficiency is such that Germany has sent squadrons to Italy for instructions in torpedo tactics. Italian aircraft torpedoes are believed to be superior to those of German design and are probably used by the German Air Force". In the picture: a S.79 dropping his torpedo against a British battleship of Mediterranean Fleet while, on the left, another S.79 disengaging after the attack. Victor Sierra.

Attack against the Mediterranean Fleet

Last controls before take-off for the mission at a SM.79 torpedo bomber of Regia Aeronautica, Gadurrà (Code Regia Aeronautica Airport 806 ), Rhodes Island, Aegean Front, perhaps autumn 1940. Note the torpedo Whitehead under the fuselage. 