Savoia-Marchetti SM.85

The Savoia‑Marchetti SM.85 was an Italian twin‑engine light transport and liaison aircraft developed in the late 1930s by SIAI‑Marchetti. Conceived as a low‑cost replacement for older biplanes, the SM.85 first flew on 22 May 1938 and entered limited service with the Regia Aeronautica in 1939. Its wooden‑covered, low‑wing monoplane design incorporated a fixed landing gear, a crew of two, and a modest cabin that could accommodate up to four passengers or a light cargo load. Powered by two 210 hp Alfa Romeo 115 radial engines, the aircraft achieved a maximum speed of about 300 km/h, a range of 1 000 km, and a service ceiling near 6 000 m. Although its performance was respectable for its class, the SM.85 suffered from stability problems and a cramped cockpit, which led to its rapid replacement by the more refined SM.86 and later the SM.95. Only 44 units were produced before the programme was terminated, and the type saw most of its flying time in training squadrons and short‑range liaison duties across the Italian mainland. Nevertheless, the SM.85 marked SIAI‑Marchetti’s first foray into modern twin‑engine monoplanes, providing valuable experience that influenced post‑war civil transport designs and contributed to Italy’s transition from wood‑based construction to all‑metal aircraft.

SIAI-Marchetti

Savoia-Marchetti SM.85

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification