The Macchi MC.202 Folgore (Thunderbolt) was an evolution of the MC.200 Saeta. Powered by a license-built Daimler-Benz DB 601 engine, it also featured several aerodynamic improvements. Introduced in July 1941, it proved to be a good dogfighter, capable of engaging Allied fighters of the time.

A MC.202 Folgore of the 74a Squadriglia, 23° Gruppo de Caccia based at Cerveteri near Rome during the summer of 1943.