Special Hobby 48140 IMAM (Romeo) Ro-44 "Italian Float Fighter"

The IMAM Ro.44 was an Italian mixed biplane fighter seaplane with a fixed float undercarriage. The drive in the basic version was provided by a single engine Piaggio P. XR 700 hp . The prototype flight took place in 1936. Serial production began in 1937, leading to the creation of 35 examples of this aircraft. It was armed with two 12.7 mm Breda-SAFAT machine guns.

IMAM Ro.44 was created as a development of the Ro.43 observation seaplane of the same aviation company. Compared to the prototype, it differed in the installed and reinforced rifle weapons, the lack of a rear observer's cabin and significant changes to the tail section. The fuselage was also strengthened and minor changes were made to the elements that fasten the upper wing. It was originally an on-board machine capable of launching from ship catapults, providing an "air umbrella" over Italian heavy ships. However, in practice it turned out that the Ro.44 was a failed aircraft, unable to fulfill its role due to very poor performance. The Ro.44 aircraft, in addition to serving on the Regia Marina heavy ships, also served in the Aegean Sea basin. However, as early as 1941, they were quickly withdrawn from the frontline and directed to aviation schools. Only 6 machines of this type survived until 1943.