The Re.2001 was an Italian single-engine fighter aircraft developed by Reggiane engineers in 1940. It was designed as an improvement to the Re.2000, and one of the most important tasks for the designers was to solve the problems with the unreliable radial engine. Consequently, the decision was made to equip the aircraft with an Alfa Romeo RA1000 inline engine, a licensed version of the German DB-601. Additionally, the aircraft received reinforced armament in the form of two additional 7.7 mm Breda-SAFAT machine guns compared to its predecessor. The Re.2001 CN was designed specifically for night operations and received exhaust-flame dampers and special dark camouflage for this purpose. Additionally, a bomb rack was installed under the fuselage, and most aircraft were equipped with 20 mm MG 151 cannons instead of rifle-caliber wing machine guns. The Re.2001 CN was produced from 1942 to 1943, with a total of 94 units manufactured. After entering service with the Royal Italian Air Force, the aircraft saw combat during World War II.

The Re.2001 CN was introduced in Update 1.85 "Supersonic". With its 20 mm cannons replacing the 7.7 mm machine guns, the fighter can destroy any air target with ease, including single-engine fighters, heavy bombers, and well-protected attack aircraft. Additionally, its ability to carry a 250-kilogram bomb enables the aircraft to participate in mixed battles and destroy enemy tanks. Like other Re.2001s, the Re.2001 CN performs well in dogfights. However, it has drawbacks: the engine is prone to overheating, and the ammunition load for the 20 mm cannons is only 60 rounds per barrel, requiring the pilot to shoot accurately.