Finn.it

Italian Air Force Photos and History.

One hundred years ago this year, in 1911, the Italian Air Force pioneered the use of aerial bombing during the Italian -Turkish War (1911-1912). The Italian pilots also developed the first effective use of planes for military reconnaissance and the use of aerial photography for target identification.

The main battle ground for this campaign was the North African region that is now called Libya. Today, Italian planes are again flying on military missions over the same ground. Ironic, eh?

The 3 small four pound bombs dropped over the edge of the cockpit in 1911 were the precursor of a century of destructive power being launched from aircraft. While airpower has helped win wars, it has also caused immense devastation and loss to civilian communities. The anniversary is worthy of note, but not of celebration?

The website has interesting photos and facts – written up rather densely in Italian and English. Fans of military history should click on the campaign they are interested in following.

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