The Lockheed Ventura was designed as a long-range patrol and anti-submarine aircraft to replace the same company's ageing Hudson. The first Ventura Mk.ls went to the RAF and were operated as day bombers. It soon became clear, however, that the aircraft simply couldn't survive the hostile environment over Western Europe and the type fell from favour as a straight bomber, when the more developed version, the Mk.ll (PV-1 in US Navy parlance) became available, this type being utilised as a maritime patrol aircraft. The type served with distinction in the Pacific with the US Navy, Australian and NZ Air Forces, many more served with the RAF, RCAF and SAAF, the latter going on to serve well into the postwar period in a variety of colour schemes and markings.
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