Description

Lockheed Ventura was an American bomber, patrol aircraft, and night fighter during World War II. The aircraft featured a metal structure in a spine-wing configuration with retractable landing gear during flight. It was powered by two Pratt and Whitney R-1850 engines, each providing 2,000 horsepower. The prototype flight took place in 1940, and serial production continued from 1941 to 1944. The armament typically consisted of 8 Lewis machine guns with calibers of 7.62 mm, 7.7 mm, or 12.7 mm, and it could carry up to 1,134 kg of bombs.

The Lockheed Ventura was developed in response to the significant demand from the British Air Force for new combat aircraft, especially bombers, which arose at the beginning of World War II. In response to British requests for a new medium bomber and patrol plane, Lockheed proposed redesigning the Lockheed Lodestar passenger plane. The British side accepted this solution but emphasized the speed of deliveries and production. The first aircraft entered service with the RAF in early 1942 under the designation Ventura Mk. I. However, it had some drawbacks—most notably, underdeveloped defensive armament and low maneuverability—which reduced its combat effectiveness. Once these issues were addressed, the Lockheed Ventura proved to be a highly successful aircraft, featuring a solid structure, powerful onboard weapons, and good performance. It was also used by the USAAF, the U.S. Marine Corps (designated PV-1 and PV-2), and by air forces including those of Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.