War Thunder Wiki - User contributions [en]

M1A1 AIM

2024-09-26T19:14:02Z

U100604366:

{{About
| about = American main battle tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = M1 Abrams (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m1a1_aim_abrams
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

As new threat profiles emerged from the Cold War, the Australians recognized that their existing fleet of [[Centurion_Mk.5/1|Centurions]] and Leopards for the Royal Australian Armoured Corp (RAAC) was becoming obsolete in being able to protect the crew against these threats. To provide the Australian Army with the best protection capabilities against these threats and continue fighting in a combined arms fashion, the Australian government sought to replace their existing tank fleet with 59 M1A1 AIM tanks from the United States. The M1A1 AIM ("Abrams Integrated Management") are refurbished Abrams tanks with additional sensors and communication platforms for better integration with the new information space on the battlefield. The M1A1 AIM were put into service by the Australian Army in 2007.

Introduced in [[Update "Danger Zone"]] as a squadron vehicle unlock, the M1A1 AIM presents most of the benefits of the [[M1A1 Abrams|M1A1]] tank. Players benefit from the tank's upgrade to the AIM variant, with better armour array and fire control system to allow better usage of the Abrams' great specifications. While the KE-W APFSDS round's penetration values may be lower than the M1A1's M829A1, it still packs enough power to be a threat against most targets the M1A1 AIM can be expected to face.

== General info ==
=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}

At first glance, the M1A1 AIM looks identical to post-M1A1 Abrams variants with its iconic 120 mm M256 cannon; but if there's anything that can make it different from the M1A1 and HC variant in US service, it is the AIM package. This gives better protection to the M1A1 AIM in terms of its turret and LFP where revised DU armour was installed to fit the 21st century battlefield. Thanks to its relatively large size overall, players might sometimes find that a penetrating shot does lesser damage as the shrapnel damage is mitigated by the large internal space, smaller calibre shells are the same case as well; but do not take this protection for granted since there is still the infamous "neck" by the turret where penetrating shots have possibility of taking out crew in the turret. Do also keep an eye on the LFP as well since the overall thickness is still insufficient to stop darts at its rank. Like other Abrams, it has a blowout panel at the rear of the turret for protecting the crew from an ammo detonation; make sure to clear the rear right side of the hull of ammunition as a detonation would mean an instant-kill for the crew.

'''Armour type:''' 


{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || ___ mm || ___ mm ''Top'' ___ mm ''Bottom'' || ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
|-
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
|-
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
|-
|}

'''Notes:''' 


=== Mobility ===
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2,058|rbMinHp=1,343}}

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
=== Main armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}

{{main|M256 (120 mm)}}

The M1A1 AIM is armed with the 120 mm M256 smoothbore gun, players of the M1A1 HC will soon find themselves at home as they share identical shells.

The stock round is M830 HEATFS, although it might not be effective in the late Cold War where tanks are usually equipped with ERA blocks or composite armour; be sure to take down the enemies from the sides or pick light targets as they will either be knocked out by the explosive contents or melted by the jet stream.

The researchable M830A1 MPAT shell, while having lesser explosive content and penetration, is equipped with a proximity fuze, making it effective against aforementioned targets as well as aircraft - a hit from it certainly critically damage any aircraft, if not taking them down outright.

Since there were limits from the Non-Proliferation Treaty of nuclear-related weapons, including DU rounds, RAAC received the tungsten alloy version of M829A1, the KE-W. Although it has lesser penetration compared to M829A1 at 583 mm, the "Silver Bullet" will still make short work of most armoured targets with one shot.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M256 (120 mm)|120 mm M256]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 40 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 6.50 || rowspan="2" | 5.75 || rowspan="2" | 5.30 || rowspan="2" | 5.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:M256 (120 mm)/Ammunition|M830, M830A1, KE-W}}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_M1A1.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the [[M1A1]] (identical)]]

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
!Full ammo
!1st rack empty
!2nd rack empty
!3rd rack empty
!Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''40''' || 35 ''(+5)'' || 18 ''(+22)'' || 1 ''(+39)'' || No
|-
|}

Identical to the M1A1 and A1 HC, be sure to clear out all ammunition in the hull (5 rounds); although the Abrams has a blowout panel to save the crew from turret side shots, a solid hit on those 5 unprotected shells will cause players to quickly meet a miserable end.

=== Machine guns ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|4}}

{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)|M240 (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle (Commander) || 1,000 (200) || 575 || -9°/+65° || -160°/+180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M240 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M240]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle (Loader) || 1,400 (200) || 941 || -9°/+65° || -77°/+135°
|-
| Coaxial || 10,000 (200) || 941 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The AIM plays just like its regular tech tree counterparts, meaning seasoned Abrams players will already be accustomed to its playstyle. The increased turret protection allows it to make use of hull down tactics just as effectively as the M1A1 HC and M1A2, with the 2nd generation thermal sights allowing for easier target identification and acquisition at range. It can also brawl relatively well because of its quick reactionary ability. The KE-W APFSDS round is perfectly capable of tackling its contemporaries.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Has access to 2nd generation thermal sights allowing for easier targeting especially at long range
* Good gun handling
* Excellent reload speed
* M830A1 is effective against helicopters
* Decent KE-W APFSDS

'''Cons:'''

* No stock APFSDS
* Traditional "NATO hump" impairs firing above the engine
* Poor armor and survivability, easily one shotted from every angle
* Engine is extremely loud and high-pitched, easily detectable
* Large profile and easy to find

== History ==

The Royal Australian Armoured Corps (RAAC) had been a long time user of European tanks including British Centurions and German Leopard AS1s. However, the Royal Australian Army opted to purchase M1A1s from from the United States as the replacement of Leopards in July 2007.<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20110605234111/http://www.anao.gov.au/Publications/Audit-Reports/2007-2008/Acquisition-of-the-ABRAMS-Main-Battle-Tank</ref> These 59 M1A1 AIM have their DU armour removed to comply with the Non-Proliferation Treaty and were deployed in the RAAC as their new generation MBT. These tanks were planned to be upgraded in the late 2010s, and later plans include building 75 M1A2 Sep v.3 domestically with a non-DU armour package specifically for Australia by 2024 to replace these 59 M1A1 AIMs.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m1a1_aim_abrams Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[M1 Abrams (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7717-development-squadron-vehicle-m1a1-aim-en|[Devblog] Squadron vehicle: M1A1 AIM]]

=== References ===
<references />

{{USA medium tanks}}
{{Squadron ground vehicles}}

T-72A

2024-07-09T19:01:21Z

U100604366: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = Soviet medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = T-72 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=ussr_t_72a
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|GarageImage_T-72A_(1983).jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''T-72A''' is the second variant of the [[T-72 (Family)|T-72 main battle tank family]]. It is a member of one of the most extensive and vast main battle families, with nearly 25,000 units of all variants built. The second variant, T-72A, has several improvements over the first variant, which is also known as "Ural." The TPD-2-49 coincidence optical rangefinder has been replaced with the TPD-K1 laser rangefinder, and a modern electronic fire control has been added. The turret front is heavily armoured with composite armour, and there are provisions for mounting explosive reactive armour (ERA) and smoke grenade launchers. In the 1980s, a large number of the first variants, the T-72 "Ural", were also modernized and upgraded to this standard.

Introduced in [[Update 1.85 "Supersonic"]], the T-72A is a manoeuvrable tank, but it has poor acceleration and handling. Its low reverse speed and hull traverse set it apart from its Western counterparts. It does, however, have a reasonably powerful engine that allows it to easily traverse rough terrain. During battles, the quartz core turret will help to resist many shots. This tank's armament includes a powerful and accurate gun. Overall, it is a formidable tank that served as the spearhead of the Soviet Army ground forces during the Cold War.

== General info ==
=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}

The T-72A's hull armour is practically the same as the T-64A's; textolite middle sandwiched between two RHA plates. The difference is that the T-72As upper glacis is angled at one degree further back than that of the T-64A and the use of Quartz core instead of High-Hardness Rolled Armour (HHRA) in the turret. Like the T-64 and T-80 line, the T-72A has a carousel-type autoloader centred under the turret. This means that a penetrating hit to the centre of the tank has a high chance of leading to an ammunition detonation and subsequent launch of the turret. This is however slightly less likely to happen with the T-72As type of autoloader, where the charges are stored horizontally (as "=") in comparison to the T-64/-80 type, where the charge sits vertically and is easier to hit.

Spare ammunition not inside the 22 round carousel is however spread more randomly around the fighting compartment. Therefore, bringing only 23 rounds (for 1 in the gun and 22 in the carousel) limits the chance of the spare ammo detonating in the case of a turret hit. There are two diesel tank ammo racks within the tank - one to the right of the driver and one between the engine and fighting compartment (with some loose ammo above it). It doesn't take much to realize that like most Soviet MBTs, the T-72A is rather explosive if extra ammo is taken, so great care is needed when showing the hull. The driver should also be aware of having only 3 crew members; if one is knocked out they should be sure to return to an objective point as soon as possible to get a new one.

'''Armour type:'''

* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret)
* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 60 mm (68°) 16 mm ''Add-on steel plate'' (68°) || 80 mm ''Top'' 20 mm ''Bottom'' || 40 mm || 30 mm ''Frontal roof'' 20 mm ''Engine deck roof''
|-
| Turret || 200-280 mm ''Turret front'' (variable angles) 150 - 400 mm ''Gun mantlet'' (variable angles) || 130-240 mm || 75 mm || 45 mm
|-
| Cupola || 100 mm (variable angles) || 100 mm (variable angles) || 100 mm (variable angles) || 45 mm
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Suspension wheels and torsion bars are 20 mm thick while tracks are 30 mm thick.

=== Mobility ===
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}


{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 1209|rbMinHp= 690|AoAweight= 0.8}}

The T-72A is a slow and sluggish tank which has poor acceleration and handling. It has really poor reverse speed as well as hull traverse. However, it has a powerful engine which makes it capable of pulling and pushing enemy tanks as well as move through rough terrain with ease. It does not have enough horsepower to climb over steep elevations. Speed-wise, it has a decent top speed (~60-70 km/h) which under specific situations it is able to be reached.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
=== Main armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}

{{main|2A46 (125 mm)}}

The T-72A has the powerful 2A46 125 mm smoothbore cannon. It has a powerful selection of rounds, each with different uses and similarities between same types.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[2A46 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Autoloader
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 44 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 19.0 || 26.4 || 32.0 || 35.4 || 37.6 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 11.9 || 14.0 || 17.0 || 18.8 || 20.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* 3BK12M: this is the stock ammunition which can be seen as poor when in frontal engagements against modern MBTs. However, the HEAT shaped charge as well as not losing penetration over distances makes it a decent round for sniping. However, the speed in said round is not fast and will be hard to aim at long distances.
* 3OF26: HE shell with a massive amount of explosive filler. This shell will destroy lightly armoured vehicles such as SPAA with overpressure.
* 3BM9: this is a tier I steel core APFSDS which has the highest muzzle velocity over all the APFSDS seen. However, the weight as well as penetration make it unreliable when facing top tier MBTs frontally.
* 3BM15: this is a tier 2 tungsten core APFSDS which has slightly less muzzle velocity compared to the 3BM9. However, this is the highest penetrating shot seen in the T-72A with increased weight over the 3BM9.
* 3BM22: this is a tier 4 APFSDS which has same ballistic performance as the 3BM15. However, penetration is reduced for a greater weight.

{{:2A46 (125 mm)/Ammunition|3BK12M, 3OF26, 3BM9, 3BM15, 3BM22}}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x450px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! Ammo part
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''44''' || ''Projectiles'' ''Propellants'' || 40 ''(+4)'' 40 ''(+4)'' || 29 ''(+15)'' 29 ''(+15)'' || 23 ''(+21)'' 23 ''(+21)'' || 1 ''(+43)'' 1 ''(+43)'' || No
|}
'''Notes''':

* The {{PAGENAME}} uses two-piece ammunition, composed of propellant bags (orange) and projectiles (yellow). Both have separate racks.
* Shells are modelled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
* A propellant charge remains in rack 2 after it is emptied and is later fired as part of rack 3. For the purpose of clarity, rack 2 is considered empty even if that charge is still present.
* Rack 4 (autoloader carrousel) is a first stage ammo rack containing 22 projectiles and 22 propellant charges.
** This rack gets filled first when loading up the tank and is also emptied first.
** As the {{PAGENAME}} is equipped with an autoloader, manual reloading of the gun is not possible.
** Once the autoloader magazine has been depleted, you can't shoot until the loader has restocked the autoloader with at least one shell. The restocking time is longer than the normal reload time of the gun. Take this into account when playing.
** Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from racks 1 to 3 into rack 4. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready rack.

=== Machine guns ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}

{{main|NSVT (12.7 mm)|PKT (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[NSVT (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm NSVT]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 300 (150) || 700 || -4°/+75° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[PKT (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm PKT]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 2,000 (250) || 700 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The T-72A playstyle is near identical to the [[T-64A (1971)|T-64A]] (and also subsequent Soviet MBTs). One of the key differences between the two vehicles is the T-72A's stronger armour. The quartz core composed turret will also bounce many shots and can even eat up some of the strongest ATGMs. In terms of armament, the T-72A boasts the very powerful and accurate 125 mm 2A46 that Soviet high-rank tankers will quickly become familiar and fall in love with. Make sure to research the 3BM15 sabot rounds as soon as you can (after Parts and FPE of course), as the stock round has mediocre penetration for a sabot.

'''Enemies worth noting:'''

* [[XM-1 (Chrysler)]]/[[XM-1 (GM)|(GM)]]: Avoid attempting combat with the 3BK18M HEATFS shells, despite them having thin composite armour
* [[AMX-30B2]]/[[AMX-30B2 BRENUS]]: DM23/33 have enough armour penetration to penetrate T-72 driver frontal plates, though all shells are effective against them in return.
* [[Leopard 2K]]: Turret mantlet is resistant to 3BK18M.
* [[AMX-40]]: Turret mantlet and lower frontal plate are highly resistant to 3BK18M.
* [[Strv 103 (Family)|Strv 103]]: Depending on the hull angling, HEATFS rounds such as the 3BK18M might ricochet. APFSDS is recommended to be used when facing it frontally.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Potent 125MM cannon with high accuracy and muzzle velocity
* Low profile, especially when compared to NATO counterparts
* Access to a laser rangefinder
* Has both smoke grenade launchers and ESS
* Great turret armor and decent enough hull protection
* Has access to the powerful 3BM22 round
* Autoloader means the gun will continue reloading despite any fires or crew casualties

'''Cons:'''

* Terrible survivability thanks to the large autoloader in the hull and limited crew
* Abysmal reverse speed at -4 Kph
* Gun depression of -6 degrees leaves some to be desired
* Large weak spots which include the driver's port and LFP
* Mediocre optics with only one 8x zoom level
* Glacis armor is not reliable until the add-on armor plate is unlocked (a tier IV modification)

== History ==


Development of the T-72 began shortly after the production of the T-64 highlighted several problems which negatively impacted production rates. Among these problems was an unreliable engine, which couldn't be produced at the high rates needed for a smooth production of the T-64 to take place.

In response, the Uralvagonzavod plant began working on a modified version of the T-64, which would use a more reliable and readily available engine, in order to provide the army with a tank fit for mass-production. Apart from this, changes were also made to the armour layout, in order to simplify production and decrease costs. This work resulted in the creation of the Object 172.

Development of the Object 172 continued, and after some trials, the vehicle entered service with the Soviet Army in August 1973, receiving its official designation T-72. Shortly afterwards, the vehicle was permitted for mass production, following the issuing of an official decree in 1974.

The T-72 was also heavily exported to and produced by nations of the Warsaw Pact as well as other countries worldwide, although these vehicles received certain downgrades compared to native Soviet models. Despite this, the T-72 quickly became one of the most widely used tanks in the world, participating in more conflicts than a single devblog could ever cover.

Since production began in 1974, over 20,000 T-72 tanks were built across several modifications in the Soviet Union/Russia alone, with production of more modern variants still ongoing today, even in other countries as well.

''- From [[wt:en/news/5945-development-t-72a-the-globetrotter-en|Devblog]]''

The T-72 series tank was developed as a direct prototype of the T-64 mechanical issues correction. In 1962, while working on the corrections of production problems, specially engine and firepower, a new prototype was developed with the 125 mm 2A46M smoothbore gun and the V-45K diesel engine. This prototype was renamed to Object 172. While being in an unclear political process, decree number 326-113 was issued, freeing Uralvagonzavod from the production of the T-64A. The first batch was produced and set under the name of "Object 172M". It was tested again in 1972 and accepted to service under the name of T-72. License production was sold to multiple countries as well as unit batches to Warsaw pact nations and exported to other countries such as India, Syria, Finland, Iraq and Yugoslavia. After the collapse of the USSR in 1991, some of the independent countries kept the tanks such as Ukraine.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ussr_t_72a Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" heights="150">
File:T-72A WTWallpaper 01.jpg|
File:T-72A WTWallpaper 02.jpg|
File:T-72A WTWallpaper 03.jpg|
File:T-72A WTWallpaper 04.jpg|
File:T-72A WTWallpaper 05.jpg|
File:T-72A WTWallpaper 06.jpg|
File:T-72A WTWallpaper 07.jpg|
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|Q6sYNcaVVO0|'''The Shooting Range #88''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 05:01 discusses the T-72.|pW4fRtXKUgs|'''The Shooting Range #132''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:35 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|CJ9sCL1BGy4|'''M1 Abrams vs {{PAGENAME}} vs T-80B''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|_xCgMBOiA8U|'''High-explosive power''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:50 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|UMmdozyPgpU|'''Tanks Chats #110 - T-72''' - ''The Tank Museum''}}

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[T-64 (Family)]]
* [[T-80 (Family)]]
* [[ZTZ96]]{{-}}[[ZTZ96A]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/5945-development-t-72a-the-globetrotter-en|[Devblog] T-72A: The Globetrotter]]
* [[wikipedia:T-72|[Wikipedia] T-72]]
* [https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/coldwar/USSR/soviet_T-72.php <nowiki>[Tanks Encyclopedia]</nowiki> T-72]
{{TankManufacturer Uralvagonzavod}}
{{USSR medium tanks}}

F-15A

2024-06-03T17:23:20Z

U100604366: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = F-15 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f_15a
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

Towards the end of the Vietnam War, the United States saw their major shortcoming in dogfighting performance, as the heavy [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom]] operated by most branches at the time was garnering an unsatisfactory kill-death ratio. Meanwhile, the far more manoeuvrable "gunfighter" [[F-8E|F-8 Crusader II]] was achieving a far better track record. As a result, not long after the end of the conflict, two new development projects were started by the USAF, one of which was the F-X program to develop a "next generation" fighter that favoured manoeuvrability over top speed. However, the F-X program would take a sharp turn not long after, as multiple radar reports from Turkey and Israel observed an unknown Soviet aircraft flying overhead at speeds above Mach 3. Quick investigation through spy satellites and high altitude reconnaissance aircraft brought the discovery of the Soviet's latest MiG-25 aircraft, which at the time was assumed by the West as a high tech, next generation fighter made of the latest composite materials. What scared the United States the most, was that the design of this MiG-25 was dangerously similar to the initial prototypes of the F-X program, which had not even flown yet. Eventually, development of the F-X program was accelerated into its latter phases, resulting in the venerable F-15 Eagle, an absolute best of all worlds, no compromises held, air superiority fighter to combat this new Soviet threat. However, the defection of Viktor Belenko to Japan with his MiG-25 shortly after showed the world that the MiG-25 was overestimated, being in reality constructed out of heavy metals and armed with weaker avionics suited for long range combat, making the MiG-25 merely a heavy interceptor, and not the "next generation super-fighter" that was feared before. The same cannot be said about the indomitable Eagle however, as the F-15 and its later variants would go on to establish the most widely regarded air-to-air combat kill-death ratio of any modern jet fighter: '''at least 103 aircraft kills without a single confirmed loss.'''

Introduced in [[Update "Air Superiority"]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' succeeds the equally famous [[F-4E Phantom II]] in the tech tree. The F-15A is represented as a mid-life variant, being outfitted with 240 countermeasures, but lacking its upgraded radar or AIM-120 missiles. Even without such upgrades, the Eagle is still a very fearsome monster in top tier jet battles, utilizing its great avionics and incredible missile selection, including the lethal [[AIM-9M Sidewinder|AIM-9M]] with IRCCM flare-rejection, to prey on enemy aircraft at a safe distance. More importantly, unlike the earlier Phantoms, when push comes to shove, the Eagle can reliably dogfight most enemies it may face thanks to its stable airframe design and absurd engine power giving it incredible acceleration and TWR. One must still be wary however that the Eagle is not completely undefeatable, and proper usage of this aircraft requires training and discipline just like its real life counterpart. Some enemies to be aware of are the [[Mirage 4000]] and early [[F-16A]]s for their ability to win an extended dogfight over the Eagle, but moreso cautious when engaging players flying the [[JAS39A|JAS 39]], [[J-11]], and [[Su-27]], as these aircraft not only possess an unstable airframe allowing them to perform impressive manoeuvres (and defeat the Eagle) at low speeds, but they also carry lethal close range missiles with IRCCM, which when coupled with their helmet-mounted targeting systems, can prove to be very dangerous for any enemy, Eagle or not, which gets close and slow in a dogfight.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

The Eagle on full fuel can be a very sluggish fighter, and this is especially noticeable with a full weapons load. On low fuel however, the F-15A is no slouch and can easily contend with anything in its BR range. The high speed pull is quite good for a jet of its size, and it can sustain up to 20 degrees per second at lower speeds (450 km/h). At speeds above Mach 1, the jet can sustain up to 13G, and won't experience wing overload until 15-16G. The Eagle is best described as rocket-like, as its high thrust-to-weight ratio give it an excellent climb rate, and allows it to stay in prolonged dogfights. In terms of speed, the aircraft reaches its top speed fairly quickly, but is slower than contemporaries like the F-16C or Mirage 2000 at lower altitudes.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 10,668 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,563 || 2,531 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 20.9 || 20.9 || 288.1 || 273.6 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,657 || 2,592 || 19.9 || 20.5 || 383.4 || 330.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,629  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || - || 548 || 481 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 680 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-100 || 2
| colspan="2" | 12,500 kg || colspan="3" | 314 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 34m fuel
|-
| 1,470 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 14,065 kg || 15,528 kg || 17,042 kg || 17,715 kg || 27,571 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 34m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 6,140 kgf || 8,510 kgf
| 1.21 || 1.10 || 1.00 || 0.96 || 0.62
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 7,061 kgf (1,629 km/h) || 13,939 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.98 || 1.80 || 1.64 || 1.57 || 1.01
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

Even though the aircraft possesses no armour, the Eagle is very durable, even tanking missiles at times, and can continue to fly in a severely crippled state. Minor structural damage is in some cases negligible to stability or performance. This doesn't mean you should brush off damage however, and like several other jets in this BR range, the F-15A can easily destabilize if missing even a wing tip. If badly hurt, you should almost never stay aggressive and attempt to repair at your nearby airfield.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, wing root-mounted (940 rpg)
* 240 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="11" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 ||
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 ||
|-
! [[GBU-8 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb GBU-8]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[BLU-27/B incendiary]] bombs
| || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 ||
|-
! [[AIM-7M Sparrow]] missiles
| || || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || ||
|-
! [[AIM-9L Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9M Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! 610 gal drop tanks
| || 1* || || || || 1 || || || || 1* ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 5,448 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,000 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Wing-mounted drop tanks must be equipped together
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 3 x 610 gal drop tanks
* 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-7M Sparrow missiles
* 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 3 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 3 x 2,000 lb GBU-8 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 9 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

'''Air Realistic Battles'''

The F-15A is very capable as a frontline fighter, and has a large number of countermeasures at its disposal in case of any threats. The AIM-9M is likely going to be your primary armament, as the AIM-7M is limited in use. The combination of a very capable platform and IRCCM make the Eagle a deadly fighter. However, you should avoid engaging a group of enemies, as this is where the jet struggles. Even though it retains speed very well, it can easily slow down when backed into a corner. As always, stay with your team and don't head into furballs blindly. Avoid drawn-out dogfights as this can easily lead to a third-party situation, and the off-boresight capability of enemies like the Su-27, JAS-39, J-11, and later MiG-29 variants can best the Eagle even if in the disadvantageous position. The F-14 Tomcat can also be a formidable opponent in BVR combat due to its long-range Phoenix air-to-air missiles that utilizes active-radar homing. The F-15A is no slouch, however, as it can hold its own in a BVR fight. Be sure to pay attention to your RWR and defend accordingly.

'''Air Simulator Battles'''

In simulator battles, the F-15 is very formidable due to its smokeless AIM-9M air-to-air missiles, but is limited by the seeker range and speed of the AIM-7M. The cockpit allows for excellent visibility and provides great situational awareness to the pilot, but the jet does lack HMD, so you must point your nose at targets. The biggest advantage the F-15A has in a simulator battle is its high speed manoeuvrability and smokeless missiles, allowing for stealthy kills.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Quite manoeuvrable at all speeds
* Incredible engine output at all altitudes
* High TWR and amazing acceleration
* Lethal AIM-9M missiles with IRCCM capabilities

'''Cons:'''

* Large and easy-to-hit target
* Prone to wing overload until "Airframe" modification
* No TWS mode hinders BVR capabilities
* Sparrows are inconsistent and unreliable

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f_15a Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-15 (Family)]]

== External links ==

''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''

* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

F-15A

2024-06-03T17:22:52Z

U100604366: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = F-15 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f_15a
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

Towards the end of the Vietnam War, the United States saw their major shortcoming in dogfighting performance, as the heavy [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom]] operated by most branches at the time was garnering an unsatisfactory kill-death ratio. Meanwhile, the far more manoeuvrable "gunfighter" [[F-8E|F-8 Crusader II]] was achieving a far better track record. As a result, not long after the end of the conflict, two new development projects were started by the USAF, one of which was the F-X program to develop a "next generation" fighter that favoured manoeuvrability over top speed. However, the F-X program would take a sharp turn not long after, as multiple radar reports from Turkey and Israel observed an unknown Soviet aircraft flying overhead at speeds above Mach 3. Quick investigation through spy satellites and high altitude reconnaissance aircraft brought the discovery of the Soviet's latest MiG-25 aircraft, which at the time was assumed by the West as a high tech, next generation fighter made of the latest composite materials. What scared the United States the most, was that the design of this MiG-25 was dangerously similar to the initial prototypes of the F-X program, which had not even flown yet. Eventually, development of the F-X program was accelerated into its latter phases, resulting in the venerable F-15 Eagle, an absolute best of all worlds, no compromises held, air superiority fighter to combat this new Soviet threat. However, the defection of Viktor Belenko to Japan with his MiG-25 shortly after showed the world that the MiG-25 was overestimated, being in reality constructed out of heavy metals and armed with weaker avionics suited for long range combat, making the MiG-25 merely a heavy interceptor, and not the "next generation super-fighter" that was feared before. The same cannot be said about the indomitable Eagle however, as the F-15 and its later variants would go on to establish the most widely regarded air-to-air combat kill-death ratio of any modern jet fighter: '''at least 103 aircraft kills without a single confirmed loss.'''

Introduced in [[Update "Air Superiority"]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' succeeds the equally famous [[F-4E Phantom II]] in the tech tree. The F-15A is represented as a mid-life variant, being outfitted with 240 countermeasures, but lacking its upgraded radar or AIM-120 missiles. Even without such upgrades, the Eagle is still a very fearsome monster in top tier jet battles, utilizing its great avionics and incredible missile selection, including the lethal [[AIM-9M Sidewinder|AIM-9M]] with IRCCM flare-rejection, to prey on enemy aircraft at a safe distance. More importantly, unlike the earlier Phantoms, when push comes to shove, the Eagle can reliably dogfight most enemies it may face thanks to its stable airframe design and absurd engine power giving it incredible acceleration and TWR. One must still be wary however that the Eagle is not completely undefeatable, and proper usage of this aircraft requires training and discipline just like its real life counterpart. Some enemies to be aware of are the [[Mirage 4000]] and early [[F-16A]]s for their ability to win an extended dogfight over the Eagle, but moreso cautious when engaging players flying the [[JAS39A|JAS 39]], [[J-11]], and [[Su-27]], as these aircraft not only possess an unstable airframe allowing them to perform impressive manoeuvres (and defeat the Eagle) at low speeds, but they also carry lethal close range missiles with IRCCM, which when coupled with their helmet-mounted targeting systems, can prove to be very dangerous for any enemy, Eagle or not, which gets close and slow in a dogfight.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

The Eagle on full fuel can be a very sluggish fighter, and this is especially noticeable with a full weapons load. On low fuel however, the F-15A is no slouch and can easily contend with anything in its BR range. The high speed pull is quite good for a jet of its size, and it can sustain up to 20 degrees per second at lower speeds (450 km/h). At speeds above Mach 1, the jet can sustain up to 13G, and won't experience wing overload until 15-16G. The Eagle is best described as rocket-like, as its high thrust-to-weight ratio give it an excellent climb rate, and allows it to stay in prolonged dogfights. In terms of speed, the aircraft reaches its top speed fairly quickly, but is slower than contemporaries like the F-16C or Mirage 2000 at lower altitudes.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 10,668 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,563 || 2,531 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 20.9 || 20.9 || 288.1 || 273.6 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,657 || 2,592 || 19.9 || 20.5 || 383.4 || 330.0
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,629  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || - || 548 || 481 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 680 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-100 || 2
| colspan="2" | 12,500 kg || colspan="3" | 314 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 34m fuel
|-
| 1,470 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 14,065 kg || 15,528 kg || 17,042 kg || 17,715 kg || 27,571 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 34m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 6,140 kgf || 8,510 kgf
| 1.21 || 1.10 || 1.00 || 0.96 || 0.62
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 7,061 kgf (1,629 km/h) || 13,939 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.98 || 1.80 || 1.64 || 1.57 || 1.01
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

Even though the aircraft possesses no armour, the Eagle is very durable, even tanking missiles at times, and can continue to fly in a severely crippled state. Minor structural damage is in some cases negligible to stability or performance. This doesn't mean you should brush off damage however, and like several other jets in this BR range, the F-15A can easily destabilize if missing even a wing tip. If badly hurt, you should almost never stay aggressive and attempt to repair at your nearby airfield.

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, wing root-mounted (940 rpg)
* 240 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11
| rowspan="11" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 ||
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 || || || || 1, 6 ||
|-
! [[GBU-8 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb GBU-8]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || 1 || || || || 1 || || || || 1 ||
|-
! [[BLU-27/B incendiary]] bombs
| || 3 || || || || 3 || || || || 3 ||
|-
! [[AIM-7M Sparrow]] missiles
| || || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || || ||
|-
! [[AIM-9L Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9M Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || || 1 || || || || || || 1 || || 1
|-
! 610 gal drop tanks
| || 1* || || || || 1 || || || || 1* ||
|-
| colspan="12" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 5,448 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,000 kg
|-
| colspan="13" | * Wing-mounted drop tanks must be equipped together
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 3 x 610 gal drop tanks
* 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles
* 4 x AIM-7M Sparrow missiles
* 18 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 18 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (9,000 lb total)
* 3 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 3 x 2,000 lb GBU-8 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 9 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

'''Air Realistic Battles'''

The F-15A is very capable as a frontline fighter, and has a large number of countermeasures at its disposal in case of any threats. The AIM-9M is likely going to be your primary armament, as the AIM-7M is limited in use. The combination of a very capable platform and IRCCM make the Eagle a deadly fighter. However, you should avoid engaging a group of enemies, as this is where the jet struggles. Even though it retains speed very well, it can easily slow down when backed into a corner. As always, stay with your team and don't head into furballs blindly. Avoid drawn-out dogfights as this can easily lead to a third-party situation, and the off-boresight capability of enemies like the Su-27, JAS-39, J-11, and later MiG-29 variants can best the Eagle even if in the disadvantageous position. The F-14 Tomcat can also be a formidable opponent in BVR combat due to its long-range Phoenix air-to-air missiles that utilizes active-radar homing. The F-15A is no slouch, however, as it can hold its own in a BVR fight. Be sure to pay attention to your RWR and defend accordingly.

'''Air Simulator Battles'''

In simulator battles, the F-15 is very formidable due to its smokeless AIM-9M air-to-air missiles, but is limited by the seeker range and speed of the AIM-7M. The cockpit allows for excellent visibility and provides great situational awareness to the pilot, but the jet does lack HMD, so you must point your nose at targets. The biggest advantage the F-15A has in a simulator battle is its high speed manoeuvrability and smokeless missiles, allowing for stealthy kills.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Quite manoeuvrable at all speeds
* Incredible engine output at all altitudes
* High TWR and amazing acceleration
* Lethal AIM-9M missiles with IRCCM capabilities

'''Cons:'''

* Large and easy-to-hit target
* Prone to wing overload until "Airframe" modification
* No TWS mode hinders BVR capabilities

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f_15a Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-15 (Family)]]

== External links ==

''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''

* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''

{{AirManufacturer McDonnell}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

Merkava Mk.3B

2024-02-02T20:47:54Z

U100604366: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = Israeli medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Merkava (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=il_merkava_mk_3b
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''Merkava Mk.3B''' is the first subvariant of the Merkava Mk.3, which is the third variant of the [[Merkava (Family)|Merkava main battle tank family]]. The Merkava Mk.3 variant debuted in December 1989 and remained in production until 2003. The Merkava 3 variant is by far the most numerous tank in frontline Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) duty as of 2016. It has improvements to the drivetrain, powerplant, weaponry, and electronic systems over the Merkava Mk.2 variant. The inclusion of the domestically designed 120 mm IMI L/44 tank gun (no relation to the 120 mm Rheinmetall L/44 tank gun) was the most noticeable upgrade. This gun is capable of firing all standard NATO 120 mm ammunition. Historically, it can fire gun-launched LAHAT anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) like regular rounds directly from the 120mm cannon. The vehicle has 50 rounds for the main tank gun and ammunition is kept in its own fireproof canisters. The tank gun and a more powerful 1,200-horsepower Continental AVDS-1790-9AR diesel engine increased the tank's total weight to 65 tonnes; however, the larger engine also increased the maximum cruising speed to 60 kilometres/hour. The turret was also redesigned to move independently of the tank chassis, allowing it to track a target regardless of how the tank moved. The Merkava Mk.3B subvariant received an upgrade that included the installation of modular composite armour across the turret roof to provide protection against anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) fired from elevated positions. It was implemented in 1994 and was kept in all further upgrades.

Introduced in [[Update "Danger Zone"]], the Merkava Mk.3B has significantly more firepower than prior variants. The Merkava Mk.3B is the first Merkava main battle tank to be equipped with the potent 120 mm IMI L/44 tank gun which has an excellent AFPSDS round. The far more powerful 1,200-horsepower Continental AVDS-1790-9AR diesel engine improves mobility significantly. This enables players to reach crucial positions considerably faster than before, allowing players to get into position first and giving them a significant advantage in the fast-paced battles of modern warfare.

The Merkava 3B is directly succeeded by the similar but uparmored [[Merkava Mk.3C]] and then the vastly improved [[Merkava Mk.4B]] after the Mk.3C.

== General info ==
=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}

Despite the hull armour being rather weak, the large engine, transmission and fuel tank along with the plethora of additional internal armour will reduce spall from enemy APFSDS rounds and decrease the damage of chemical rounds significantly. The turret also features armour that can easily bounce enemy darts and protect your vehicle from fragmentation shells due to the extreme angle of the armour as well as the 50mm composite armor all over the front part of the roof.

The rear of the vehicle is also rather strong, featuring two 30 mm plates with an external fuel tank between them that can sometimes minimize the spalling of incoming rounds or stop low calibre APDS shells (e.g. autocannons), giving players a short amount of time to react and address the threat.

The turret also features a layout that even when penetrated can save the gunner or loader from getting hit by spall because of how low they are placed. The commander will usually be the first crew member to be knocked out, being the most exposed crew member of your tank. The turret ring is a very large weakspot with a well-placed shot under the gun having the potential of knocking out the crew.

'''Armour type:'''

* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Hull front, Gun mantlet)
* Rolled homogeneous armour (Hull sides and rear)
* Composite screens (Turret front and sides, Hull front and sides)
* External composite armour with NERA elements (Hull front)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 60 mm (66-84°) ''Front glacis'' 50-90 mm (36-60°) ''Lower glacis'' || 50 (12°) + 10 mm ''Top'' 50 mm (12°) ''Bottom'' || 30 mm (0-39°) || 20 - 60 mm
|-
| Turret || 150 - 300 mm ''Turret front'' ~150 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 50-60 mm || 40-45 mm || 20-40 mm
|-
| Cupola || 30 mm || 30 mm || 30 mm || 30 mm
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Tracks and roadwheels consist of 20 mm of structual steel of chassis.
* Front of the turret composite screen armour features 40 mm of NERA elements.
* Side of the turret composite screen armour features 250 mm of NERA elements.
* 50 mm Additional composite screens at the top of the turret.
* 10 mm of internal armour are located in front and behind the engine and transmission.
* ~60 mm Composite screens covering the top of the tracks and suspension.
* Two 30 mm plates spaced 900 m from each other at the rear of the hull.
* First stage ammunition storage is inside a 10 mm thick fireproof container.
* Ammo is stored in 10 mm canisters.

A plus of having the ammunition stored the fireproof canisters is that the ammunition will not "cook-off" and explode when the tank is on fire. However, do not forget the importance of extinguishing a fire, or else the vehicle will burn out after a surprisingly short amount of time.

The composite screens on the sides of the tank can be useful for absorbing autocannon fire, albeit for a very short amount of time.

=== Mobility ===
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}


Despite the rather large size of the vehicle, it is quite mobile. It features a 1200 horsepower engine featuring an 18.5 horsepower/ton ratio that allows it to accelerate to its top speed of 60 km/h on a paved road within 20 seconds. The vehicle also features two reverse gears with a top reverse speed of 26 km/h, which is useful for getting out of a sticky situation quickly. The vehicle features neutral steering ~15 seconds for a full 360 degree turn on the spot.

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,860|rbMinHp=1,061}}

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}Prioritize the researching of the "Parts" modification first, LWR/LR, FPE, M322 (APFSDS), NVD, and then the remainder of the gun/performance upgrades.

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
=== Main armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}

{{main|IMI MG251 (120 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[IMI MG251 (120 mm)|120 mm IMI MG251]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 46 || rowspan="2" | -7°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 32.4 || 44.8 || 54.4 || 60.2 || 64.0 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 6.70
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 20.2 || 23.8 || 28.9 || 32.0 || 34.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:IMI MG251 (120 mm)/Ammunition|M325, M339, M322}}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''46''' || 45 ''(+1)'' || 43 ''(+3)'' || 42 ''(+4)'' || 24 ''(+22)'' || 6 ''(+40)'' || 1 ''(+45)'' || No
|}
The ammunition should be relatively safe from enemy tanks as the majority of the rounds are stored at the very back of the tank in two large ammo racks. Carrying 20 APFSDS for tanks and 4 HE-VT rounds for helicopters should be good enough for the average battle. Carry more APFSDS if fighting on an open, long-range map that requires more sniping (Maginot Line, 2nd Battle of El Alamein, etc.)

=== Machine guns ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|4}}

{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)|FN MAG 60-40 (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 1,000 (200) || 577 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}
The 12.7mm machine gun is mounted directly above the 120mm cannon. It is useful for lightly armored vehicles, taking out low-flying planes and helicopters, and disabling the tracks on enemy tanks. Note that the commander does not have to be alive to control the 12.7mm (not commander-mounted) so you can fire even with a crew of 2-3 members.
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[FN MAG 60-40 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm FN MAG 60-40]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 6,000 (200) || 600 || N/A || N/A
|-
| Pintle (loader) || 1,800 (200) || 600 || -10°/+50° || -120°/+90°
|-
| Pintle (commander) || 1,800 (200) || 600 || -10°/+50° || ±120°
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

'''Ground Realistic Battles'''

In RB, this vehicle can be used effectively to snipe (ideally in a hull-down position) using its amazing penetration at all ranges, laser rangefinder, generation 1 thermal optics and amazing zoom (gunner and commander), while exposing your turret and hiding your rather weak hull increases your survivability significantly.

The vehicle's good gun handling and mobility also allow for close quarters fights but your turret being placed so far back can lead to you being trapped having your front exposed to an enemy unable to shoot back and also your gun reload (6.7 seconds max crew) being slower than others of its type (6 seconds max crew) can lead to situations where you might not be able to shoot back fast enough if the first shot was not enough.

Do not be afraid to use the 12 smoke grenades you have available in 6 salvos of two in two launchers located at the front of the turret which are airburst-capable and 30 smoke grenades in a single smoke grenade launcher located over your loader. The Merkava also has an ESS which can provide a large smoke screen, but keep in mind that thermals will be able to "see" through ESS, leaving the tank vulnerable.

The good crew placement of the Merkava allows for a little wiggle room when being shot, chances are if the enemy tank shoots "centre of mass" or at the driver/engine the tank will still have 2-3 crew left to fight back. Cooperate with teammates so they can help you repair if needed.

Do not forget that your vehicle also features a total of four machineguns, one of them being a .50 calibre M2 Browning mounted over your main gun with a generous supply of ammunition that are more than capable of sending enemy helicopters and low flying aircraft to the hangar while also being able to inflict damage to tracks of other vehicles and being able to knock out light vehicles from the side or rear. The other 3 machine guns are only 7.62mm in calibre and most of the time only useful for clearing obstructions or marking enemies.

'''Ground Arcade Battles'''

The Merkava has a higher top speed and quicker reaction time in Arcade battles where mobility stats and gun traverse/elevation speeds are increased, while repair speeds are decreased. The penetration indicator will assist you showing where you need to shoot and there is an aiming indicator compensating for distance. However, you will be shown on the minimap and enemies will be able to spot the tank faster as players are marked with their username above the tank. Shoot first, and don't miss. The crew placement will also allow you to survive some shots as inexperienced enemies will see that the entire front of the hull is "penetrable" and shoot there, not knowing that the main gun/gunner will not be damaged.

Most of the strategies used in Realistic battles will also apply to Arcade battles.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* 120mm IMI L/44 cannon is a significant upgrade from previous 105mm armed tanks.
* APFSDS easily penetrates enemies (589mm max) and produces more spall compared to the 105mm armed Merkavas.
* Good optics, helpful when sniping from long ranges.
* Crew placement increases survivability, decreasing the chance of a full knockout from one shot.
* M2 Browning does not require the commander to be alive to fire.
* Lot of smoke grenades to provide quick and effective cover from enemies.

'''Cons:'''

* Weak armor throughout, excellent survivability comes with the cost of armor protection
* Frontal engine placement, inconvenient to repair and will usually be one of the first things to be damaged when shot.
* Turret ring is a huge weak spot and any round that penetrates here will usually knockout the tank.
* Rear turret placement; being shot sometimes leaves the front of the tank exposed but the turret blocked behind an obstacle (peeking around a corner).
* No thermals for the commander sight.

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=il_merkava_mk_3b Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


* [[Merkava (Family)|Merkava family of tanks]]
* [[:Category:Israel ground vehicles|Israeli ground forces tech tree]]

== External links ==


* [[wikipedia:Merkava|Merkava family on Wikipedia]]
* [[wikipedia:IMI_120_mm_gun|120mm IMI L/44 cannon on Wikipedia]]
* [[wikipedia:LAHAT|LAHAT ATGM on Wikipedia]]

{{TankManufacturer Israeli Ordnance Corps}}
{{Israel medium tanks}}

Merkava Mk.3B

2024-02-02T20:46:56Z

U100604366: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = Israeli medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Merkava (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=il_merkava_mk_3b
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''Merkava Mk.3B''' is the first subvariant of the Merkava Mk.3, which is the third variant of the [[Merkava (Family)|Merkava main battle tank family]]. The Merkava Mk.3 variant debuted in December 1989 and remained in production until 2003. The Merkava 3 variant is by far the most numerous tank in frontline Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) duty as of 2016. It has improvements to the drivetrain, powerplant, weaponry, and electronic systems over the Merkava Mk.2 variant. The inclusion of the domestically designed 120 mm IMI L/44 tank gun (no relation to the 120 mm Rheinmetall L/44 tank gun) was the most noticeable upgrade. This gun is capable of firing all standard NATO 120 mm ammunition. Historically, it can fire gun-launched LAHAT anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) like regular rounds directly from the 120mm cannon. The vehicle has 50 rounds for the main tank gun and ammunition is kept in its own fireproof canisters. The tank gun and a more powerful 1,200-horsepower Continental AVDS-1790-9AR diesel engine increased the tank's total weight to 65 tonnes; however, the larger engine also increased the maximum cruising speed to 60 kilometres/hour. The turret was also redesigned to move independently of the tank chassis, allowing it to track a target regardless of how the tank moved. The Merkava Mk.3B subvariant received an upgrade that included the installation of modular composite armour across the turret roof to provide protection against anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) fired from elevated positions. It was implemented in 1994 and was kept in all further upgrades.

Introduced in [[Update "Danger Zone"]], the Merkava Mk.3B has significantly more firepower than prior variants. The Merkava Mk.3B is the first Merkava main battle tank to be equipped with the potent 120 mm IMI L/44 tank gun which has an excellent AFPSDS round. The far more powerful 1,200-horsepower Continental AVDS-1790-9AR diesel engine improves mobility significantly. This enables players to reach crucial positions considerably faster than before, allowing players to get into position first and giving them a significant advantage in the fast-paced battles of modern warfare.

The Merkava 3B is directly succeeded by the similar but uparmored [[Merkava Mk.3C]] and then the vastly improved [[Merkava Mk.4B]] after the Mk.3C.

== General info ==
=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}

Despite the hull armour being rather weak, the large engine, transmission and fuel tank along with the plethora of additional internal armour will reduce spall from enemy APFSDS rounds and decrease the damage of chemical rounds significantly. The turret also features armour that can easily bounce enemy darts and protect your vehicle from fragmentation shells due to the extreme angle of the armour as well as the 50mm composite armor all over the front part of the roof.

The rear of the vehicle is also rather strong, featuring two 30 mm plates with an external fuel tank between them that can sometimes minimize the spalling of incoming rounds or stop low calibre APDS shells (e.g. autocannons), giving players a short amount of time to react and address the threat.

The turret also features a layout that even when penetrated can save the gunner or loader from getting hit by spall because of how low they are placed. The commander will usually be the first crew member to be knocked out, being the most exposed crew member of your tank. The turret ring is a very large weakspot with a well-placed shot under the gun having the potential of knocking out the crew.

'''Armour type:'''

* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Hull front, Gun mantlet)
* Rolled homogeneous armour (Hull sides and rear)
* Composite screens (Turret front and sides, Hull front and sides)
* External composite armour with NERA elements (Hull front)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 60 mm (66-84°) ''Front glacis'' 50-90 mm (36-60°) ''Lower glacis'' || 50 (12°) + 10 mm ''Top'' 50 mm (12°) ''Bottom'' || 30 mm (0-39°) || 20 - 60 mm
|-
| Turret || 150 - 300 mm ''Turret front'' ~150 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 50-60 mm || 40-45 mm || 20-40 mm
|-
| Cupola || 30 mm || 30 mm || 30 mm || 30 mm
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Tracks and roadwheels consist of 20 mm of structual steel of chassis.
* Front of the turret composite screen armour features 40 mm of NERA elements.
* Side of the turret composite screen armour features 250 mm of NERA elements.
* 50 mm Additional composite screens at the top of the turret.
* 10 mm of internal armour are located in front and behind the engine and transmission.
* ~60 mm Composite screens covering the top of the tracks and suspension.
* Two 30 mm plates spaced 900 m from each other at the rear of the hull.
* First stage ammunition storage is inside a 10 mm thick fireproof container.
* Ammo is stored in 10 mm canisters.

A plus of having the ammunition stored the fireproof canisters is that the ammunition will not "cook-off" and explode when the tank is on fire. However, do not forget the importance of extinguishing a fire, or else the vehicle will burn out after a surprisingly short amount of time.

The composite screens on the sides of the tank can be useful for absorbing autocannon fire, albeit for a very short amount of time.

=== Mobility ===
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}


Despite the rather large size of the vehicle, it is quite mobile. It features a 1200 horsepower engine featuring an 18.5 horsepower/ton ratio that allows it to accelerate to its top speed of 60 km/h on a paved road within 20 seconds. The vehicle also features two reverse gears with a top reverse speed of 26 km/h, which is useful for getting out of a sticky situation quickly. The vehicle features neutral steering ~15 seconds for a full 360 degree turn on the spot.

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,860|rbMinHp=1,061}}

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}Prioritize the researching of the "Parts" modification first, LWR/LR, FPE, M322 (APFSDS), NVD, and then the remainder of the gun/performance upgrades.

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
=== Main armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}

{{main|IMI MG251 (120 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[IMI MG251 (120 mm)|120 mm IMI MG251]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 46 || rowspan="2" | -7°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 32.4 || 44.8 || 54.4 || 60.2 || 64.0 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 6.70
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 20.2 || 23.8 || 28.9 || 32.0 || 34.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:IMI MG251 (120 mm)/Ammunition|M325, M339, M322}}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''46''' || 45 ''(+1)'' || 43 ''(+3)'' || 42 ''(+4)'' || 24 ''(+22)'' || 6 ''(+40)'' || 1 ''(+45)'' || No
|}
The ammunition should be relatively safe from enemy tanks as the majority of the rounds are stored at the very back of the tank in two large ammo racks. Carrying 20 APFSDS for tanks and 4 HE-VT rounds for helicopters should be good enough for the average battle. Carry more APFSDS if fighting on an open, long-range map that requires more sniping (Maginot Line, 2nd Battle of El Alamein, etc.)

=== Machine guns ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|4}}

{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)|FN MAG 60-40 (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 1,000 (200) || 577 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}
The 12.7mm machine gun is mounted directly above the 120mm cannon. It is useful for lightly armored vehicles, taking out low-flying planes and helicopters, and disabling the tracks on enemy tanks. Note that the commander does not have to be alive to control the 12.7mm (not commander-mounted) so you can fire even with a crew of 2-3 members.
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[FN MAG 60-40 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm FN MAG 60-40]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 6,000 (200) || 600 || N/A || N/A
|-
| Pintle (loader) || 1,800 (200) || 600 || -10°/+50° || -120°/+90°
|-
| Pintle (commander) || 1,800 (200) || 600 || -10°/+50° || ±120°
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

'''Ground Realistic Battles'''

In RB, this vehicle can be used effectively to snipe (ideally in a hull-down position) using its amazing penetration at all ranges, laser rangefinder, generation 1 thermal optics and amazing zoom (gunner and commander), while exposing your turret and hiding your rather weak hull increases your survivability significantly.

The vehicle's good gun handling and mobility also allow for close quarters fights but your turret being placed so far back can lead to you being trapped having your front exposed to an enemy unable to shoot back and also your gun reload (6.7 seconds max crew) being slower than others of its type (6 seconds max crew) can lead to situations where you might not be able to shoot back fast enough if the first shot was not enough.

Do not be afraid to use the 12 smoke grenades you have available in 6 salvos of two in two launchers located at the front of the turret which are airburst-capable and 30 smoke grenades in a single smoke grenade launcher located over your loader. The Merkava also has an ESS which can provide a large smoke screen, but keep in mind that thermals will be able to "see" through ESS, leaving the tank vulnerable.

The good crew placement of the Merkava allows for a little wiggle room when being shot, chances are if the enemy tank shoots "centre of mass" or at the driver/engine the tank will still have 2-3 crew left to fight back. Cooperate with teammates so they can help you repair if needed.

Do not forget that your vehicle also features a total of four machineguns, one of them being a .50 calibre M2 Browning mounted over your main gun with a generous supply of ammunition that are more than capable of sending enemy helicopters and low flying aircraft to the hangar while also being able to inflict damage to tracks of other vehicles and being able to knock out light vehicles from the side or rear. The other 3 machine guns are only 7.62mm in calibre and most of the time only useful for clearing obstructions or marking enemies.

'''Ground Arcade Battles'''

The Merkava has a higher top speed and quicker reaction time in Arcade battles where mobility stats and gun traverse/elevation speeds are increased, while repair speeds are decreased. The penetration indicator will assist you showing where you need to shoot and there is an aiming indicator compensating for distance. However, you will be shown on the minimap and enemies will be able to spot the tank faster as players are marked with their username above the tank. Shoot first, and don't miss. The crew placement will also allow you to survive some shots as inexperienced enemies will see that the entire front of the hull is "penetrable" and shoot there, not knowing that the main gun/gunner will not be damaged.

Most of the strategies used in Realistic battles will also apply to Arcade battles.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* 120mm IMI L/44 cannon is a significant upgrade from previous 105mm armed tanks.
* APFSDS easily penetrates enemies (589mm max) and produces more spall compared to the 105mm armed Merkavas.
* Good optics, helpful when sniping from long ranges.
* Crew placement increases survivability, decreasing the chance of a full knockout from one shot.
* M2 Browning does not require the commander to be alive to fire.
* Lot of smoke grenades to provide quick and effective cover from enemies.

'''Cons:'''

* Weak armor throughout, excellent survivability comes with the cost of armor protection
* Frontal engine placement, inconvenient to repair and will usually be one of the first things to be damaged when shot.
* Turret ring is a huge weak spot and any round that penetrates here will usually knockout the tank.
* Rear turret placement; being shot sometimes leaves the front of the tank exposed but the turret blocked behind an obstacle (peeking around a corner).
* Like other MBTs, weak sides that are vulnerable to high-penetration autocannons (BMP-2 or the Gepard).
* No thermals for the commander sight.

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=il_merkava_mk_3b Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


* [[Merkava (Family)|Merkava family of tanks]]
* [[:Category:Israel ground vehicles|Israeli ground forces tech tree]]

== External links ==


* [[wikipedia:Merkava|Merkava family on Wikipedia]]
* [[wikipedia:IMI_120_mm_gun|120mm IMI L/44 cannon on Wikipedia]]
* [[wikipedia:LAHAT|LAHAT ATGM on Wikipedia]]

{{TankManufacturer Israeli Ordnance Corps}}
{{Israel medium tanks}}

Su-27

2024-01-05T22:32:58Z

U100604366: /* Pros and cons */

{{Specs-Card
|code=su_27
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

Shortly after the Vietnam War, both the United States and the Soviet Union got to work on a new generation of fighter aircraft that favoured manoeuvrability and dogfight performance over top speed, after seeing how badly "missile truck" designs like the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantom II]] performed against more nimble aircraft that were as much as 20 years older. In 1969, the Soviet Union received details through spies on the USAF's F-X program and the aircraft it was leading to, the [[F-15A|F-15 Eagle]]. As a result, the Soviets also decided to adopt a "Heavy support" doctrine with their new generation of fighters, with a smaller amount of a larger, more powerful aircraft supporting a larger amount of smaller, cheaper "frontline" aircraft just as the US was going to do with the F-15 and [[F-16 (Family)|F-16]] respectively. The design of the heavy fighter was handed to OKB Sukhoi, which quickly produced the T-10 prototype. The T-10 had many shortcomings, and after a lot of work with {{Annotation|TsAGI|Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute of Moscow}} to iron out the issues, the Su-27 would take to the skies for the first time in 1977. Development would continue further, and the first true "production models" would only enter service in 1985, beginning a fruitful life in Soviet service, and later in Chinese, Ethiopian, Vietnamese, Eritrean, Indonesian, Ukrainian, Kazakh, Uzbek, and Russian service with many aircraft of the type still seeing combat today.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (NATO reporting name: ''Flanker'') was introduced in [[Update "Air Superiority"]] as the top-end heavy fighter for the USSR tree, capping off the Sukhoi line and beginning its transition from high speed fighter-bombers to the venerable Flanker family. The Su-27 is a jack of all trades yet a master of almost none, and that playstyle is its strongest suite. The Flanker carries a very generous amount of air to air missiles (ten), including up to six heat-seeking missiles with HMD targeting, and four of the infamous R-27ER coupled with the strong N001 Mech radar. The Flanker's lethal missile selection allows it to dispatch distracted many enemies at safe distances, and when push comes to shove, the Flanker's inherently unstable airframe and fly-by-wire control systems allows it to perform high angle-of-attack manoeuvres and partial post-stall manoeuvres at lower speeds, including the famed Cobra manoeuvres. All in all, the Su-27 should be played as a jack of all trades, and fits best into a very aggressive playable due to its lethal missiles, great avionics and sensors, and nimble flight performance. One must, however, be aware of various enemies you can encounter in the Flanker, such as all the aircraft that carry IRCCM missiles due to the Flanker's large heat signature as a result of the two massive AL-31 engines, but also be careful of dogfighting aircraft from the F-15 Eagle family, as the Eagle's superior TWR and high-speed handling as a result of the stable airframe will give F-15 players an advantage in some scenarios.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at _,___ m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| ___ || ___ || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | ___
|-
! Upgraded
| ___ || ___ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,540  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || - || 652 || 600 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 680 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Saturn AL-31F || 2
| colspan="2" | 16,420 kg || colspan="3" | 417 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 13m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 44m fuel
|-
| 1,520 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 19,240 kg || 20,614 kg || 22,711 kg || 25,820 kg || 33,798 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 13m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 44m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,219 kgf || 11,656 kgf
| 1.21 || 1.13 || 1.03 || 0.90 || 0.69
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 7,219 kgf (0 km/h) || 15,640 kgf (1,540 km/h)
| 1.63 || 1.52 || 1.38 || 1.21 || 0.92
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|GSh-30-1 (30 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 30 mm GSh-30-1 cannon, wing root-mounted (150 rpg)
* 96 x large calibre countermeasures

The Su-27 uses the same 30 mm autocannon as the MiG-29 with the same limited ammunition count of 150 rounds. Although it is not as forgiving as the American M61 Vulcan and demands precision, it has no spool up time and will deal heavy damage to any aircraft it hits. Something to note is that the Su-27's cannon is mounted on the right side of the fuselage, whereas the MiG-29's mount is on the left.

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="5%" | 1 !! width="5%" | 2 !! width="5%" | 3 !! width="5%" | 4 !! width="5%" | 5 !! width="5%" | 6 !! width="5%" | 7 !! width="5%" | 8 !! width="5%" | 9 !! width="5%" | 10
| rowspan="19" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
| || 1 || 6 || 6 || 6 || 6 || 6 || 6 || 1 ||
|-
! [[FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|250 kg FAB-250M-62]] bombs
| || || 1, 2 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1, 2 || ||
|-
! [[OFAB-250-270 (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250-270]] bombs
| || 1 || 1, 2, 6 || 1, 5 || 1, 4 || 1, 2 || 1, 5 || 1, 2, 6 || 1 ||
|-
! [[OFAB-250Sh (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250Sh]] bombs
| || || 1, 2 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1, 2 || ||
|-
! [[FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500M-62]] bombs
| || || 1, 2 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1, 2 || ||
|-
! [[FAB-500Sh (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500Sh]] bombs
| || || 1, 2 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1, 2 || ||
|-
! [[ZB-500 incendiary]] bombs
| || || 1, 2 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1, 2 || ||
|-
! [[S-8KO]] rockets
| || || 20, 40 || || || || || 20, 40 || ||
|-
! [[S-13OF]] rockets
| || || 5, 10 || || || || || 5, 10 || ||
|-
! [[S-25O]] rockets
| || || 1, 2 || || || || || 1, 2 || ||
|-
! [[S-25OF]] rockets
| || || 1, 2 || || || || || 1, 2 || ||
|-
! [[S-25OFM]] rockets
| || || 1, 2 || || || || || 1, 2 || ||
|-
! [[R-27ER]] missiles
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[R-27ET]] missiles
| || || 1 || || || || || 1 || ||
|-
! [[R-27R]] missiles
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[R-27T]] missiles
| || || 1 || || || || || 1 || ||
|-
! [[R-73]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
| colspan="11" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 8,040 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,500 kg
|-
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* Without load
* 2 x R-73 missiles
* 6 x R-73 missiles
* 2 x R-27T missiles
* 6 x R-27R missiles
* 2 x R-27ET missiles
* 6 x R-27ER missiles
* 80 x S-8KO rockets
* 20 x S-13OF rockets
* 4 x S-25O rockets
* 38 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (3,800 kg total)
* 8 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 30 x 250 kg OFAB-250-270 bombs (7,500 kg total)
* 8 x 250 kg OFAB-250Sh bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 8 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (4,000 kg total)
* 8 x 500 kg FAB-500Sh bombs (4,000 kg total)
* 8 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

The Su-27 has a fairly wide arsenal. The air-to-air armaments are generally similar to the [[MiG-29SMT]], with highly agile R-73 IR missiles for short-range combat and various marks of R-27 missiles for medium to long range engagements. However it has a large advantage in capacity over the MiG-29; a full air superiority loadout consists of four R-73s and up to six R-27s, which makes it an excellent missile truck for BVR jousting.

The extended-range R-27ER and R-27ET are the most capable members of the R-27 family and should be used once unlocked. The R-27ET (and its less advanced R-27T) can only be mounted on the inboard wing pylons for a maximum capacity of two, but this is sufficient for a couple of long-range sneak attacks to round out the Su-27's engagement capabilities. The inboard pylons can also mount R-73s instead for pilots who want to bring as many dogfight missiles as possible.

The Su-27 is limited to only unguided bombs and rockets for ground attack, so unlike the MiG-29SMT it cannot use TV-guided missile or bombs for standoff engagements. One notable feature is that it can carry up to four S-25O heavy bunker-buster rockets made famous by the [[Su-25]], which can be a fun surprise for combined battles when enemy SAMs are suppressed or confused. All rockets are mounted in double racks on the inboard pylons, leaving the other pylons available for R-73s, R-27s, or bombs in a multirole loadout.

== Usage in battles ==


The Su-27 is a fairly all-rounded aircraft, capable of of performing both air superiority and close air support duties, with the aircraft excelling at the former due to its ability to carry a massive arsenal of close to medium range air-to-air missiles like the potent and reliable R-73 and the manoeuvrable and high speed R-27ER, whilst for more personal and intimate encounters the Su-27 sports a potent wing root 30 mm GSh-30-1 with EEGS integrated. The aircraft also has HMD (Helmet Mounted Display) integrated, allowing the pilot to designate radar lock-on selected target within the HMD's cubical arc which possesses a massive gimbal room. One thing to note is that IR Missile lock is integrated into the HMD, allowing the HMD to lock your R-73 SRAAMs onto your enemies without the need to point your nose to lock, this gave the Su-27 a massive advantage in dogfights especially against opponents that lacked the same technology.

For ground support duties, the aircraft offers a decently diverse payload options, ranging from conventional and retarded bombs to unguided missiles which featured CCIP support. One glaring issue however is the lack of computer guided munition due to the aircraft inherent nature of being an air-superiority fighter.

In Air Realistic Battles, the Su-27 is a smooth operator, with excellent roll rate and turn speed. At the start of the battle, it's recommended for the player to load the aircraft with 4 x R-73 SRAAMs and 6 x R-27ER MRAAMs. After taking off, push for afterburner until you reached ~1,200 km/h IAS and maintain it until contact is made. It's highly advise to stay on deck and follow the terrain to induce radar cluttering whilst en route to the combat zone, this will come in extremely handy when the opposition is field F-14A/Bs which could pop off AIM-54A/Cs Active Radar Homing (ARH) Missiles which could independently track target without the need for the Tomcat's radar constantly feeding information back.

After making visual contact with the enemy at any altitude beyond the range of 5 km+, you could attempt to acquire lock using your Radar or HMD mode and pop off a few of your R-27ER to shed some weight, note that the R-27ERs possessed IOG and DL features, the former allowed the missile to continue tracking with the last given parameters whilst the latter enables the missile to reacquire its target after lock is regained, this allowed for some tricky plays like popping off the missile at the enemy, this will encourage them to deploy Countermeasures (CMs) expecting lock to be lost or disrupted, however with the addition of DL, lock could be reacquired and the missile will resume its tracking unlike its contemporary like the the AIM-7M. This potentially allow the player to catch the prey off guard thinking that they've already gotten off the R-27ER's hook. At near tree top level, it's highly advise that the player use R-73s instead despite the Su-27's ability to reliably lock targets even at low altitude, it is in no way reliable enough to guide the R-27ERs lest you're flying at an even lower altitude than your enemy. If the fight devolves into an dogfights, the Su-27 are have some tricks up its sleeves, that being the Su-27's extremely manoeuvrable airframe at speeds below the thresholds between ~500-700 km/h IAS (another thing to note is that at speeds above 1,200 km/h IAS, the vertical control surfaces will stiffen up). However if you find yourself at speeds higher than 700 km/h IAS, then the Su-27 has yet another toy that is yet to be unveiled, which is the addition of a massive airbrake, specifically designed to enable the aircraft to perform a tight turn even at high speed, regardless the use of this airbrake should be done in moderation as it bleeds the aircraft speed at an astronomical rate which could be a double-edged sword or a lifesaver depending on the scenario it's used in, this enables the Su-27 to outmanoeuvre even the most manoeuvrable jets with a few exceptions like the JAS-39A/C Gripen and Mirage 4000. This allows the Su-27 to turn the table of the fight ever so slightly in its favour, allowing the aircraft to enter its manoeuvrable speed threshold which could help you get your HMD acquisition of the R-73 SRAAM on the assailant or just pepper them with your potent 30 mm with the help of EEGS (Note: R-73s IRCCM uses Gatewidth Tracking which is extremely flare resistant the closer the missile gets to it's target due to the IR tracking scope narrowing post-launch, this means it's highly recommended for the pilot to launch the missile preferably from or below 1 km for best effect).

'''Notable Opponents:'''

* [[F-16 (Family)|F-16A/Cs]] - F-16s carry a small advantage over the Flanker in maneuverability, with greater energy retention and rate fighting abilities. What makes the Viper dangerous, however, is the AIM-9M. The 9M carries an IRCCM system, which stands for Infrared Counter-Countermeasure. The seeker head on the Sidewinder will shut off when it detects flares, follow the aircrafts expected trajectory, and then reacquire lock once flares are passed. The only way to defeat these potent missiles is to constantly flare, cut throttle, and change direction. When the aircraft is not where the missile expects it to be after the pilot moves out of the expected path, the 9M will lock onto the recently deployed flares. Spamming large groups of flares sporadically does not work, as the missile will simply reacquire lock once flaring ceases. The best defense against powerful IRCCM missiles is to avoid them in the first place. By catching enemies off guard from their flanks and behinds, any pilot will find success, no matter the plane.
* [[F-14 (Family)|F-14A/Bs]] - F-14s are capable of launching AIM-54A/Cs as aforementioned, which could be extremely infuriating to deal with. The only real counter to this is by flying flat on deck, however even the slightest mistake could resulted in you getting locked on by the AIM-54s if you don't fly close enough to the ground, however the Tomcat's combat prowess starts to diminish at closer ranges.
* [[F-15 (Family)|F-15A/Js]] - F-15s are perhaps one of the Su-27s greatest adversary. Equal in manoeuvrability, the F-15s could pull off many tight turn just like the the Su-27 combined with its use of AIM-9Ms, the Eagle could easy pick off the Flanker in close range engagements so caution is advise when engaging.
* [[JAS-39A]]/[[JAS39C|Cs]] - Engagement against the Gripen is quite tricky for the Flanker, the aircraft possess possibly superior manoeuvrability than the Flanker and Eagle in some cases, combined the the Gripen's used of licensed built AIM-9Ms under the Swedish designation of RB-74(M)s, direct close in confrontation is ill-advised as most fight wouldn't end well for the Flanker.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Excellent acceleration and engine power
* Great airframe allowing for very tight turns at speeds between ~500-700 km/h IAS
* Massive assortment of air-to-air weaponry, capable of carrying a maximum of 10 missiles, including six potent R-27ER/ET missiles (SARH & IR, respectively)
* GSh-30-1 is hard-hitting and capable of incapacitating most foes with a single well landed burst
* HMD is integrated with IR tracking support allowing R-73s to be launch from unprecedented angles

'''Cons:'''

* Massive airframe compared to most contemporaries which makes for an easy target
* Control surfaces stiffens at speeds higher than 1,200 km/h
* Flares are deployed singularly one by one
* Has a tendency to snap its wing at high speed whilst rolling excessively

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/all/?q=%23su27 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==

''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8652-development-su-27-feisty-flanker-en|[Development] Su-27: Feisty Flanker!]]

{{AirManufacturer Sukhoi}}
{{USSR jet aircraft}}

F-16C

2023-11-01T15:36:14Z

U100604366: /* Pros and cons */

{{Specs-Card
|code=f_16c_block_50
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was a major improvement over the previous variants of the F-16. The previous Block 42 aircraft weighed 3,000+ lbs (1,360 kgs) over the early F-16s. To offset the increased weight, General Electric developed the F110-GE-129 which greatly increased thrust at both low and high altitudes. The Block 50 also received the Westinghouse APG-68 radar which was much faster and generally more reliable. One of the biggest additions to the Block 50 was the ability to fire AIM-120 AMRAAMs and new ground attack munitions. It could also utilize the AGM-88 HARM which was a dedicated SEAD weapon. The USAF received the first F-16 Block 50 in late 1991 and many more were sent to foreign countries as well.

Introduced in [[Update "Sons of Attila"]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an excellent top-tier aircraft. The improved General Electric F110 greatly increases the performance of the Block 50 against enemy aircraft. It excels in dogfighting thanks to its relatively light airframe and better engine. The Fighting Falcon has access to AIM-9M Sidewinders which have a smokeless motor as well as improved IRCCM which makes them an incredibly dangerous missile, especially from rear aspect. Players should be more than satisfied with the F-16C Block 50 against both aircraft and ground targets.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 10,973 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,108 || 2,073 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 20.1 || 20.5 || 259.5 || 248.3 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
|2,235||2,170||18.9||19.5||344.1||300
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,555  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || - || 470 || 463 || ~12 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 680 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric F110-GE-129 || 1
| colspan="2" | 9,070 kg || colspan="3" | 441 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 12m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 42m fuel
|-
| 1,805 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 10,044 kg || 10,606 kg || 11,374 kg || 12,317 kg || 17,874 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 12m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 42m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 6,960 kgf || 11,484 kgf
| 1.14 || 1.08 || 1.01 || 0.93 || 0.64
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 7,241 kgf (1,200 - 1,400 km/h) || 16,488 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.64 || 1.55 || 1.45 || 1.34 || 0.92
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, wing root-mounted (512 rpg)
* 120 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10
| rowspan="17" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || || 3 || 3 || || || 3 || 3 || ||
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| || || 3 || 3, 6 || || || 3, 6 || 3 || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || || || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 Air (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || || || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[GBU-12 Paveway II (277 kg)|277 kg GBU-12 Paveway II]] bombs
| || || 2* || || || || || 2* || ||
|-
! [[GBU-24 Paveway III (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb GBU-24 Paveway III]] bombs
| || || 1* || 1* || || || 1* || 1* || ||
|-
! [[BLU-27/B incendiary]] bombs
| || || 2 || 2 || || || 2 || 2 || ||
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| || || 57 || || || || || 57 || ||
|-
! [[Hydra-70 M247]] rockets
| || || 19 || || || || || 19 || ||
|-
! [[AGM-65D]] missiles
| || || 1, 3 || || || || || 1, 3 || ||
|-
! [[AIM-7M Sparrow]] missiles
| || || 1 || || || || || 1 || ||
|-
! [[AIM-9L Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9M Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! LITENING II targeting pod
| || || || || 1* || || || || ||
|-
! 300 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || ||
|-
| colspan="11" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 2,000 kg
|-
| colspan="12" | * The LITENING II pod must be equipped when carrying guided bombs
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 300 gal drop tank
* 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles
* 2 x AIM-7M Sparrow missiles
* 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 38 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
* 2 x AGM-65D missiles
* 6 x AGM-65D missiles
* 12 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 12 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x 277 kg GBU-12 Paveway II bombs (1,108 kg total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-24 Paveway III bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 8 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==
'''F-16C Playstyle'''

The F-16C is a purebred squad fighter, performing most efficiently with allied help. A group of 3-4 F-16s is a deadly force to be reckoned with, no matter the enemy. To get the most out of the Block-50, focus on assisting allies and cleaning up baited targets. The F-16 can be a menace by dipping in and out of fights, utilizing its effective HMD to sling AIM-9Ms at slow and distracted opponents. However, due to poor high speed maneuverability, the F-16 should never be found alone, by multiple enemies, especially. Poor high-speed agility can reduce responsiveness times for pilots, giving pursuing enemies crucial space for positioning. The F-16 can be easily overwhelmed when outnumbered, so the best way to combat the weakness is to avoid it altogether. By using careful target prioritization, a Block-50 can kill enemies and free up allies for assistance at the same time. Through practice, you will learn your plane by heart, finally unleashing the full potential of this vicious aircraft.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Access to potent AIM-9M missiles with the option of a smokeless motor
* Access to a LITENING II TGP in contrast to other F-16 variants
* Large variety of guided ground ordnance
* Better radar than previous F-16s
* Has TWS (Track While Scan)
* Upgraded F110-GE-129 engine with significantly more thrust
* Advanced AN/ALR-56M RWR that can detect a variety of threats
* Access to a voice warning system (Betty)
* Access to a helmet-mounted display (JHMCS)

'''Cons:'''

* Bad top speed manoeuvrability
* High fuel consumption
* Internal M61 cannon still has a limited ammo supply
* Worse flight performance than previous F-16s

== History ==

The Block 42 F-16 was very overweight at an astounding 3,000 lb increase over the F-16A/Bs. This was also compounded by the fact that the Block 42 was intended to carry more ordnance and didn't have any significant thrust increase. As a result, the USAF launched the Increased Performance Engine (IPE) program to increase the thrust of the F-16. The Pratt & Whitney F100 and General Electric F110 engines were both redesigned and were much more powerful compared to their predecessors. The F110, found in the Block 50, featured a thirty-percent increase in thrust at low altitudes and a ten-percent increase at higher altitudes. The Block 50 also received the Westinghouse APG-68 radar which had increased reliability and was much faster. The displays in the cockpit were also replaced and an FOV HUD was added. The Block 50 also has access to a multitude of ordnance, and thanks to the improved engine, it can also carry much more. The Block 50 can use the AGM-88 HARM, AIM-120 AMRAAM, new surface target weaponry, SAPHEI rounds (PGU-28), and bombs.
[[File:F-16c thunderbirds 2022.JPG|thumb|F-16Cs of the USAF Thunderbirds performing a Diamond Formation, October 2022.]]
The USAF began receiving the Block 50s in the early 90s and continued receiving them until 2005. After that, F-16 deliveries were exclusively for foreign customers where the F-16 also shined. Further upgrades were done on the Block 50 such as the Block 50 Plus which included more advanced electronics: the radar was improved, a better IFF system was installed, and it could be modified to have conformal fuel tanks (CFT).

In 2001, F-16C and F-16D Block 40/42 and Block 50/52 underwent an upgrade program called CCIP or Common Configuration Implementation Program. Block 50 F-16Cs modernized under this program were identified by the "bird slicer" antennas on the AN/APX-113 IFF interrogators. The CCIP program integrated newer targeting pods such as the Lockheed Martin Sniper XR targeting pod (Phase IB) and the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (Phase II).

== Media ==


;Images
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="200">
F-16 Viper Demo Team skin.png|F-16C Viper Demo Team skin
</gallery>

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-16 (Family)]]

== External links ==

''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''

* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''

{{AirManufacturer General Dynamics}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

F-16C

2023-11-01T15:34:38Z

U100604366: /* Usage in battles */

{{Specs-Card
|code=f_16c_block_50
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was a major improvement over the previous variants of the F-16. The previous Block 42 aircraft weighed 3,000+ lbs (1,360 kgs) over the early F-16s. To offset the increased weight, General Electric developed the F110-GE-129 which greatly increased thrust at both low and high altitudes. The Block 50 also received the Westinghouse APG-68 radar which was much faster and generally more reliable. One of the biggest additions to the Block 50 was the ability to fire AIM-120 AMRAAMs and new ground attack munitions. It could also utilize the AGM-88 HARM which was a dedicated SEAD weapon. The USAF received the first F-16 Block 50 in late 1991 and many more were sent to foreign countries as well.

Introduced in [[Update "Sons of Attila"]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an excellent top-tier aircraft. The improved General Electric F110 greatly increases the performance of the Block 50 against enemy aircraft. It excels in dogfighting thanks to its relatively light airframe and better engine. The Fighting Falcon has access to AIM-9M Sidewinders which have a smokeless motor as well as improved IRCCM which makes them an incredibly dangerous missile, especially from rear aspect. Players should be more than satisfied with the F-16C Block 50 against both aircraft and ground targets.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}

''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 10,973 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,108 || 2,073 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 20.1 || 20.5 || 259.5 || 248.3 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
|2,235||2,170||18.9||19.5||344.1||300
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="6" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X 
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,555  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || - || 470 || 463 || ~12 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 680 || < 750 || < 700 || -
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | General Electric F110-GE-129 || 1
| colspan="2" | 9,070 kg || colspan="3" | 441 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Max Gross Weight|Mass of the fully equipped aircraft with heaviest weapons load}}
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 12m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 42m fuel
|-
| 1,805 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning low-bypass turbofan
| 10,044 kg || 10,606 kg || 11,374 kg || 12,317 kg || 17,874 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 12m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 42m fuel || MGW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 6,960 kgf || 11,484 kgf
| 1.14 || 1.08 || 1.01 || 0.93 || 0.64
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 7,241 kgf (1,200 - 1,400 km/h) || 16,488 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 1.64 || 1.55 || 1.45 || 1.34 || 0.92
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}

''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''

=== Modifications and economy ===
{{Specs-Economy}}

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M61A1 (20 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:

* 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, wing root-mounted (512 rpg)
* 120 x countermeasures

=== Suspended armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}


The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10
| rowspan="17" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || || 3 || 3 || || || 3 || 3 || ||
|-
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
| || || 3 || 3, 6 || || || 3, 6 || 3 || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || || || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 Air (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || || || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[GBU-12 Paveway II (277 kg)|277 kg GBU-12 Paveway II]] bombs
| || || 2* || || || || || 2* || ||
|-
! [[GBU-24 Paveway III (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb GBU-24 Paveway III]] bombs
| || || 1* || 1* || || || 1* || 1* || ||
|-
! [[BLU-27/B incendiary]] bombs
| || || 2 || 2 || || || 2 || 2 || ||
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| || || 57 || || || || || 57 || ||
|-
! [[Hydra-70 M247]] rockets
| || || 19 || || || || || 19 || ||
|-
! [[AGM-65D]] missiles
| || || 1, 3 || || || || || 1, 3 || ||
|-
! [[AIM-7M Sparrow]] missiles
| || || 1 || || || || || 1 || ||
|-
! [[AIM-9L Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[AIM-9M Sidewinder]] missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! LITENING II targeting pod
| || || || || 1* || || || || ||
|-
! 300 gal drop tanks
| || || || || || 1 || || || ||
|-
| colspan="11" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 2,000 kg
|-
| colspan="12" | * The LITENING II pod must be equipped when carrying guided bombs
|}

{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

* 1 x 300 gal drop tank
* 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
* 6 x AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles
* 2 x AIM-7M Sparrow missiles
* 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 38 x Hydra-70 M247 rockets
* 2 x AGM-65D missiles
* 6 x AGM-65D missiles
* 12 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 12 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x 277 kg GBU-12 Paveway II bombs (1,108 kg total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-24 Paveway III bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 8 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==
'''F-16C Playstyle'''

The F-16C is a purebred squad fighter, performing most efficiently with allied help. A group of 3-4 F-16s is a deadly force to be reckoned with, no matter the enemy. To get the most out of the Block-50, focus on assisting allies and cleaning up baited targets. The F-16 can be a menace by dipping in and out of fights, utilizing its effective HMD to sling AIM-9Ms at slow and distracted opponents. However, due to poor high speed maneuverability, the F-16 should never be found alone, by multiple enemies, especially. Poor high-speed agility can reduce responsiveness times for pilots, giving pursuing enemies crucial space for positioning. The F-16 can be easily overwhelmed when outnumbered, so the best way to combat the weakness is to avoid it altogether. By using careful target prioritization, a Block-50 can kill enemies and free up allies for assistance at the same time. Through practice, you will learn your plane by heart, finally unleashing the full potential of this vicious aircraft.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Access to AIM-9M missiles
* Access to a LITENING II TGP in contrast to other F-16 variants
* Large variety of guided ground ordnance
* Better radar than previous F-16s
* Has TWS (Track While Scan)
* Upgraded F110-GE-129 engine with significantly more thrust
* Advanced AN/ALR-56M RWR that can detect a variety of threats
* Access to a voice warning system (Betty)
* Access to a helmet-mounted display (JHMCS)

'''Cons:'''

* Bad top speed manoeuvrability
* High fuel consumption
* Internal M61 cannon still has a limited ammo supply
* Worse flight performance than previous F-16s

== History ==

The Block 42 F-16 was very overweight at an astounding 3,000 lb increase over the F-16A/Bs. This was also compounded by the fact that the Block 42 was intended to carry more ordnance and didn't have any significant thrust increase. As a result, the USAF launched the Increased Performance Engine (IPE) program to increase the thrust of the F-16. The Pratt & Whitney F100 and General Electric F110 engines were both redesigned and were much more powerful compared to their predecessors. The F110, found in the Block 50, featured a thirty-percent increase in thrust at low altitudes and a ten-percent increase at higher altitudes. The Block 50 also received the Westinghouse APG-68 radar which had increased reliability and was much faster. The displays in the cockpit were also replaced and an FOV HUD was added. The Block 50 also has access to a multitude of ordnance, and thanks to the improved engine, it can also carry much more. The Block 50 can use the AGM-88 HARM, AIM-120 AMRAAM, new surface target weaponry, SAPHEI rounds (PGU-28), and bombs.
[[File:F-16c thunderbirds 2022.JPG|thumb|F-16Cs of the USAF Thunderbirds performing a Diamond Formation, October 2022.]]
The USAF began receiving the Block 50s in the early 90s and continued receiving them until 2005. After that, F-16 deliveries were exclusively for foreign customers where the F-16 also shined. Further upgrades were done on the Block 50 such as the Block 50 Plus which included more advanced electronics: the radar was improved, a better IFF system was installed, and it could be modified to have conformal fuel tanks (CFT).

In 2001, F-16C and F-16D Block 40/42 and Block 50/52 underwent an upgrade program called CCIP or Common Configuration Implementation Program. Block 50 F-16Cs modernized under this program were identified by the "bird slicer" antennas on the AN/APX-113 IFF interrogators. The CCIP program integrated newer targeting pods such as the Lockheed Martin Sniper XR targeting pod (Phase IB) and the Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System (Phase II).

== Media ==


;Images
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="200">
F-16 Viper Demo Team skin.png|F-16C Viper Demo Team skin
</gallery>

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[F-16 (Family)]]

== External links ==

''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''

* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''

{{AirManufacturer General Dynamics}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}