[DISCLAIMER: The following text is taken from the wartime U.S. War Department publication.
As with all wartime intelligence information, data may be incomplete or inaccurate. No
attempt has been made to update or correct the text. Any views or opinions
expressed do not necessarily represent those of the website.]
In the Libyan maneuvers of May 1938, the Italians transported two mixed brigades by
air, probably in Ca-133 and S-81 aircraft. During the Albanian campaign
of April 1939, Italy relied on converted civil air liners and heavy bombers
for the 50 aircraft that were used in carrying 1,100 men 90 miles into the
Albanian interior in 4 or 5 hours. Unlike her main Axis partner, Italy did
not, so far as known, begin hostilities in World War II with a fleet of
aircraft designed specifically for transporting troops.