This is one of those books that we rarely get to see. Why? Well, unless you know what to look for -meaning, you are aware that Caproni had an airplane factory in Peru?- you would possibly never know that there is a book covering this rare, but nonetheless interesting subject.
The book is 100 pages long, of which 98 pages contain printed information. Most of the pages are illustrated with one, two or even three black and white photos, with captions in Spanish and English.
There is information on the first contract between Perú and the Societá Aeroplani Caproni, S.A., and the second contract between the same parties, that marked the birth of the Fábrica Nacional de Aviones Caproni Peruana -FNA- (Caproni’s Peruvian National Airplane Factory.)
There are chapters covering the Italian Military Technical Mission to Perú and FNA’s operations from 1937 to 1941. Some of the airplanes covered are:
- Caproni Ca.100
- Caproni Peruana Ca.100PR
- Caproni Ca.111
- Caproni Ca.113
- Caproni Ca.114
- Caproni Bergamaschi Ca.135
- Caproni Bergamaschi Ca.310
All of these, framed on the Peruvian territorial and military conflicts with Colombia and Ecuador.
The book also covers the consequences of World War II for the Peruvian aviation industry and as well as the operations of the Peruvian Air Corps against Ecuador in 1941. Another chapter covers the nationalization of the FNA.
The text in general is clear and concise; there is ample information on events and operational details, given that the establishment of the factory was dictated by the Peruvians’ material disadvantage in aerial equipment, when compared with Colombia. These airplanes were not purchased just to show the flag, they were employed operationally.
If you are interested in acquiring a copy of this excellent book, send an email to Antarki Models or contact the author directly: Amaru Tincopa. Its cost is US$25.00 plus shipping (US$20.00 air mail worldwide.)
Book Details
Title: Fábrica Nacional de Aviones Caproni Peruana
Author: Amaru Tincopa Gallegos
Date of Publication: November 19, 2010
Printed By: EDISA – Estudio de Impresiones, S.A.
Dimensions: 8 1/4″ x 11 3/4
ISBN: 978-612-00-0408-1
