Caproni Ca.4 • wp.archivoaereo.com

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Evolution of a Giant Bomber

The Caproni Ca.4 triplane giant marked the apotheosis of Caproni’s twin-boom bombers, with work commencing in 1916. Caproni proportionally increased the main dimensions of the Ca.33 aircraft and added a third wing, compensating with its lift for the increased takeoff weight. The more streamlined gondola, along with the tail booms, was secured beneath the middle wing.

Innovative Design and Power

The most powerful engines available to the company were chosen for the aircraft: American “Liberty” engines, each delivering 400 hp. Small gunner cabins, designed to protect the rear hemisphere, appeared on the tail booms immediately behind the engines. The landing gear was attached to the lower wing and featured two bogies with eight wheels each. In the rear sections of the tail booms, high steel crutches were installed, on which the aircraft rested when parked, adopting an almost horizontal position.

Bombs were suspended in vertical tubes within a streamlined container, secured centrally to the lower wing, similar to the French Breguet-Michelin BM.5 bomber. The triplane’s construction was mixed and covered with fabric.

Production and Service History

Only two Ca.4 prototypes were built in total. However, two of its modifications were mass-produced: the Ca.41 and Ca.42, with the latter proving more successful and numerous (41 aircraft). Six Ca.42s served with the British Air Force until 1918. Specifically for the Italian Navy, the Caproni company built two twin-engine Ca.43 aircraft, also equipped with “Liberty” engines.

Technical Specifications

Modification	Са.42
Wingspan, m	29.90
Length, m	13.10
Height, m	6.30
Empty weight	3256
Normal takeoff weight	6710
Engine type	3 Piston engine Isotta-Fraschini V-6
Power, hp	3 x 270
Maximum speed, km/h	126
Cruising speed, km/h	108
Flight endurance, h	7.0
Maximum rate of climb, m/min	84
Service ceiling, m	3000
Crew, crew members	4
Armament	four-eight 6.5-mm Fiat Revelli machine guns; bomb load – up to 1450 kg