To improve flight characteristics, the second prototype (MM.51) of the Caproni Ca.70 fighter was equipped with a Lorraine-Dietrich 12 Db twelve-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine. This engine delivered 400 hp, with its design allowing an increase to 500 hp.
Development and Engine Upgrade
Due to this modification, the aircraft’s designation was first changed to Ca.70L, and subsequently to Ca.71. The aircraft was completed in the autumn of 1925, marking a significant step in its development.
Testing and Military Rejection
During initial tests, some shortcomings were identified. Following a period of refinement and improvements, the Ca.71 was transferred to the Guidonia Test Center in early 1927.
The flight characteristics of the Ca.71 proved to be worse than those of the Ca.70. Consequently, the model was also rejected by the military, ending its operational prospects.
Technical Specifications
| Modification | Ca.70 |
| Wingspan, m | 15.00 |
| Length, m | 9.55 |
| Height, m | 3.78 |
| Wing area, m2 | 55.00 |
| Empty weight | 1310 |
| Normal takeoff weight | 1760 |
| Engine type | 1 Piston engine Lorraine-Dietrich 12 Db |
| Power, hp | 1 x 400 |
| Maximum speed, km/h | 200 |
| Cruising speed, km/h | 170 |
| Flight endurance, h | 2 |
| Crew, crew members | 2 |
| Armament | two forward 7.7-mm Vickers machine guns, one 7.7-mm Lewis machine gun mounted on a turret in the rear cockpit |
Image gallery of the Ca.71
