Mosquito T III
The Mosquito T.III was a significant trainer variant of the de Havilland Mosquito, designed to ease the transition for pilots to this versatile aircraft. Unlike many other military aircraft of World War II, the T.III included dual controls, allowing an instructor to fly alongside the trainee, providing invaluable guidance and safety.
Design and Specifications
- Engines and Armament:
- The Mosquito T.III was powered by Merlin 21, 23, or 25 engines and was not equipped with armament. This made it suitable for training purposes without the complexities of operational weaponry.
- First Flight and Prototype:
- The prototype, designated W4053, made its first flight on January 30, 1942, piloted by Geoffrey de Havilland. The aircraft was capable of carrying a pair of 100-gallon drop tanks and had a fully loaded weight of 20,319 lb.
Operational History
Introduction and Early Use:
- The first unit to receive the T.III was the MCU (Mosquito Conversion Unit), which was later renamed 1655 MTU (Mosquito Training Unit). This unit was established at Horsham St Faith in August 1942 and moved to Marham by the end of September 1942.
Role in Training:
- The T.III played a crucial role in converting crews, particularly from Beaufighter squadrons, to the Mosquito. This allowed operational squadrons to retain their personnel while transitioning to the new aircraft.
- Operational Training Units (OTUs) such as 60 OTU at High Ercall, along with 8, 13, 16, 51, and 54 OTU, also received the T.III for training purposes.
Post-War Service:
- After World War II, the Mosquito T.III continued to serve in Flying Training Command. It became the backbone of 204 AFS (Advanced Flying School), established at Cottesmore on March 15, 1947. The unit was later relocated to Bassingbourn, becoming ‘D’ Flight of 231 OCU (Operational Conversion Unit) in February 1952.
Production and Retirement
- Manufacturing:
- A total of 362 Mosquito T.IIIs were built, with most constructed at Leavesden, and the remainder at Hatfield.
- Service End:
- The T.III continued to serve in various training and operational support roles until it was retired in 1953.