The aircraft was mainly used by the Regia Aeronautica (Royal [Italian] Air Force), but it also saw limited use with the German Luftwaffe, who used it against the French resistance.

The Re.2002 project began with the conversion of the Re.2000 to Regia Aeronautica specifications including a redesigned wing and conventional fuel tanks.

The Re.2002 was designed by Roberto Longhi and Antonio Alessio, who took a modified and strengthened Re.2000 fuselage, mated to Re.2001 wings and a more powerful radial engine, the Piaggio P.XIX R.C.45 Turbine (1,175 hp).

During the first four days, when the Italian Air Force tried to attack allied ships, 14 aircraft were destroyed by British Spitfire Mk Vs.

The Re.2002s damaged several allied ships, among them the British battleship HMS Nelson, that was forced to retreat to the port of Malta for repairs.

[5] Data from Caproni Reggiane Re 2001 Falco II, Re 2002 Ariete & Re 2005 Sagittario[6]General characteristics Performance Armament