The Macchi C.202 Folgore (Thunderbolt), a highly maneuverable Italian fighter known for its Daimler-Benz engine, allowing it to challenge Allied aircraft. The Folgore has been considered to be one of the best wartime fighters to serve in large numbers with the Regia Aeronautica and was deployed on all fronts in which Italy was involved. It engaged in offensive operations over Malta and in North Africa, where Italian and German forces were fighting against British and later American forces. It as flown by almost all of the most successful Italian aces and in North Africa, the Folgore achieved a ratio kill/loss better than that of the Messerschmitt Bf 109.