This sytem was not only used by No.73 OTU but by a number of the Anti Aircraft Co-opertion Squadrons. It is perhaps easier to relay the technique as described by F/O Bill Flemming of No.286 AAC Sqn ‘B’ Flight operating out of RAF Exeter in 1944.
“The Hurricane being a single seat fighter did not have a winch. The cable and drogue were loosly coiled on the runway and attached to a spring loaded catch at the tail of the plane. The pilot took off using 15 degree flap to get airborne as quickly as possible and to climb away at a steep angle. A member of the ground crew held the drogue off the ground, making sure that the cable did not get snagged, and released the drogue as soon as the length of the cable had pulled off the runway. Upon conclusion of the tow, and returning to the aerodrome, sufficient height had to be maintained to prevent the drogue fouling any obstruction. It was usual to fly across the airfield at 1500 – 2000 feet and then release the drogue by a pulling lever within the cockpit which severed the cable. This operation usually being lined up along the runway.”
Trust this is of some interest.
Tim
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