German transport aircraft Gotha Go 244B-2 ICM-48224

Description

The complications experienced in the use of cargo gliders and the shortage of aircraft to tow them resulted in the creation of a motorized version of the Go 242, known as the Go 244 transport aircraft. These medium-sized transport aircraft were conversions of Gotha Go 242 structures of various modifications. The aircraft engines were installed in front of the tail beams, the fuel tanks were placed inside the aircraft and the cockpit was equipped with the instruments and equipment necessary for flight. The aircraft engines, for the most part, were powered by French Gnome-Rhone 14M engines obtained as trophies. The defensive armament included MG 15 or MG 81Z 7.9 mm machine guns.

The Go 244B-2 version was derived from the Go 242B-2 airframe and, like the Go 242B-2, featured an original landing gear with oil dampers. The Go 244 served in several Luftwaffe transport squadrons based in Greece and other countries. Subsequently, these aircraft were used in flight schools and training centers.