Developed from the Macchi C.202, the first C.205 flew in April 1942. Faster and better armed than its predecessor, thanks to the increased power of the DB.605 engine and the installation – for the first time on an Italian fighter – of two 20 mm Mauser cannons in the wings, the C.205 proved to be on a par with (and in some aspects superior to) enemy and Allied aircraft; however, this improvement in performance came at the expense of the smooth handling and immediate responsiveness that characterised the C.202.

Compared to other fighters of the “Series 5” (as aircraft fitted with the DB.605, such as the Fiat G.55 and Reggiane Re.2005, were called), the “Veltro” had a smaller wing surface and for this reason its use was planned for medium-altitude combat. In 1943, it was issued to the 4th Wing and some Squadrons of the 51st and 3rd Wings; a special version equipped the 310th.^ª Aero-photographic Squadron of Guidonia (Rome).

Numerous examples of the Macchi C.205 also became part of the Fighter Squadrons of the Air Force of the Italian Social Republic. After the conflict ended, and following a brief period with the 5th Wing, the C.205 was assigned to the Schools.