299 Sqn - Lockheed Ventura Glider Tugs?

[Larry]

On this site for 38 Group RAF, it says for 299 Sqn that it formed with Ventura Glider tugs?

But did any Venturas actually get used to tow gliders? I guess they were capable but I have never seen any other reference to the types use for this role

https://www.raf38group.org/299squadron.htm

[MW Giles]

The ORB says that the Venturas were in the state they came when discarded by 2 Group and were unmodified for towing or dropping paras.

299 Sqn formed in November 1943 and began converting to Stirlings in December, therefore it is very unlikely that the Venturas were converted for towing.

This is confirmed by a note at the end of December 1943 for the month that says that all flying was on Venturas as the first consignment of Stirlings had not arrived. There were no operations or towing/para exercises as the aircraft were not converted for the task.

There is at least one crash, therefore flying took place on the Venturas, but no detail what it was

Martin

[Larry]

Great thanks