According to my friend,an `old` F8 tug-pilot,the cable with drogue `spreader` bar/drogue/flag,was attached to the rear of the ventral by a hook; the cable was then laid-out down the runway in a particular pattern to minimise shock-loading,and away one went..On return the cable plus drogue/flag was dropped alongside the runway.Only one drogue/flag at a time..Same with the Hunter when used as a tug..