In the rich tapestry of aviation history, certain narratives distinguish themselves, not merely for their technological feats but for the fervent individuals who infuse them with vitality.
The 11 November 1941 at 1930hrs two small cargo vessels with provisions bound for Tripoli sailed from Trapani escorted by a torpedo boat. Late that same evening, seven 830 Squadron Swordfish took off to attack the convoy.
Malta’s Hurricane Chronicles: From Arrival to Reinforcements, the Vital Role of Hawker Hurricanes in Defending the Mediterranean Island during World War II.
Italian Stukas dive-bombers, commonly known as “Picchiatello”, played a significant role in the Mediterranean theatre, notably in attacks on Malta.
Luqa, Hal Far, Ta’Qali- these names have become synonymous with the story of Maltese aviation, indeed with the histories of the Royal Air Force and Royal Navy in the Mediterranean, not least because of their connection with the Second World War. However, it is very rarely realised that the first stretch of land in Malta to serve for the normal landing and take off of aircraft was in fact the Marsa Sports Ground, a relatively large, flat, and grassy land situated at the southwestern end of the Grand Harbour and which everybody referred to as “The Marsa.”
In the summer of 1941, a new silhouette graced the skies over Malta—the Reggiane Re 2000. But its story was destined to be overshadowed by a more formidable successor, the Re 2001.