JU-52 being towed

[Brian Abraham]

Just saw a clip of WWII film on telly in which a Ju-52 is taking off and being towed by three other aircraft, hard to tell, but looked as though they may have been Ju-88s. The three towing bridles terminated at where the 52s centre prop hub would be. The 52s wing engines were in use and it appeared the centre engine cowling was in place, if not the engine. A google has failed to unearth info and likewise my library. Presumably trials I'm guessing, rather than something used operationally. Any clues out there among the cognoscenti?

[aviate1138]

Don't you mean a Me 321/323 being towed by 3 Me 110's?

Like this?

YouTube - Messerschmitt Me 321/323 Gigant (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1OvyOeXnW0k)

Tricky stuff!

Start at around 1:00 in if in a hurry.

[sablatnic]

They did tow the Ju as a test before they attempted towing the 321. Thought they used Me110's, but anything is possible. It was somewhat desperate times then.
A link to a bit more information.
https://www.fiddlersgreen.net/models/aircraft/Messerschmitt-Me321.html
The Ju is mentioned about 1/4 down the page, under BIG towing problems. Photos of the He 111 Zwilling in action too.

[aviate1138]

sablatnic

Fascinating read! Thanks. :)

[Brian Abraham]

Many thanks sablatnic. The tow aircraft were not 110s in the film clip, as they were single fin. Only saw them in rear on and distant view, hence the inability to positively identify, but definitely not 110s. Thanks once again.

Edited to add the film clip is here, 21 minute mark SBS Video Player (http://player.sbs.com.au/programs#/programs_08/fullepisodes/fullep_documentary/playlist/Nazi-Number-One:-Ep-2-The-Deputy)
The tow aircraft don't show up well, but to these tired old eyes on the wide screen telly I was sure they were single fin. Stand to be corrected.

[gileraguy]

yeah, I saw it to, on the doco about Goering. I think it was something to do with the siege at Stalingrad.