Caproni pinned great hopes on the Ca. 310's effectiveness as a combat aircraft, only to be dashed when its performance fell short of expectations. This lack of performance resulted in both
Norway and
Hungary being disappointed with the export models they received in 1938. The Ca.310 had been evaluated by the
Regia Aeronautica (Italian Air Force) which ordered a small batch. A unit of 16 aircraft was sent to Spain in July 1938 for operational trials as a reconnaissance/bomber by the Italian expeditionary force operating alongside the Nationalist insurgents in the Spanish Civil War. The Norwegian aircraft were acquired as part of a
dried and salted cod (
Klippfisk) barter deal between Norway and Italy. The original order, including options, was for 24 aircraft, but after seeing that the aircraft did not perform well, the Norwegian authorities refused to accept any further Ca.310s. Instead, a delivery of 12
Caproni Ca.312s with upgraded engines and improved performance was substituted, but not delivered before the
German invasion of Norway on 9 April 1940. A similar scenario occurred with other export contracts, especially with a hoped-for
Royal Air Force order for bomber
trainers being curtailed during negotiations with Caproni when Italy entered the war as an Axis power.
Peruvian Aeronautical Corps Ca.310s took part in the July 1941
Ecuadorian–Peruvian War. Together with
North American NA.50s, the Peruvian Ca.310s flew bombing missions against Ecuadorian cities and supported
Army of Peru ground forces. ==Variants==