War Thunder Wiki - User contributions [en]

P-51H-5-NA

2024-04-22T15:52:36Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = P-51 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=p-51h-5_na
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_p-51h-5_na.jpg
}}

== Description ==

The P-51H can rightly be considered the apex of the P-51 Mustang. The P-51H was an evolution from the lightweight Mustang experiments conducted in 1944. The biggest addition to the P-51H was the Packard Merlin V-1659-9. It featured an automatic boost control system and water injection. With water injection enabled, the V-1659 could produce a whopping 2,000+ hp although only for short bursts. The P-51H also featured extensive airframe modifications like a shorter carburetor air intake and longer fuselage. In preparation for the upcoming invasion of Japan, around 2,000 P-51Hs were ordered. However, the war was nearing its end and many orders were canceled. The P-51H would never see combat in either the Pacific or European theatres.

Introduced in [[Update 1.71 "New E.R.A."]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an extremely dangerous aircraft. The combination of the powerful Merlin engine and lightweight airframe makes the P-51H a capable dogfighter. It also excels in boom and zoom tactics against enemy planes thanks to the various airframe improvements. Much like the other Mustang variants, the P-51H comes equipped with six M2 Browning machine guns and various loadouts of bombs and rockets. Players will be greatly satisfied with the P-51H's capability against enemy aircraft and ability to attack ground targets.

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

The {{PAGENAME}} handles much better than its predecessors. It has a noticeably improved rate of climb that is one of the best in the game when it comes to propeller-driven aircraft. It is also an extremely fast aircraft and can outrun and outclimb almost all opponents in most situations. Its turn rate isn't as good as some other aircraft at its rank so don't get into long turning battles that take up large amounts of energy. However, it can turn well at higher speeds, but doing so is more risky considering that other aircraft can dogfight better by turning at lower speeds at a greater rate. The best way to use the advantages of the aircraft's speed and climb-rate is to use boom and zoom tactics. Handling and speed are diminished when bombs are loaded, which is the same for all aircraft. The key to winning in this aircraft is to stay fast, stay high, and pick your battles. It can be an extremely deadly aircraft if flown by an experienced pilot.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 7,000 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
| 736 || 717 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 19.6 || 20.8 || 12.1 || 12.1 || rowspan="2" | 396
|-
! Upgraded
| 828 || 776 || 18.7 || 19.0 || 27.0 || 18.2
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 651 || 520 || 265 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 480 || < 400 || < 420 || > 300
|-
|}

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


* 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot.
* 19.05 mm Steel plate in front of the engine.
* 6.35 mm Steel plate between the engine and pilot.
* 15.87 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

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

* 6 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (260 rpg outer + 260 rpg mid + 390 rpg inner = 1,820 total)

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

{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|Mk 78 incendiary}}
{{main|HVAR|M8}}

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

* Without load
* 6 x HVAR rockets
* 6 x M8 rockets
* 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
* 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (500 lb total)
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
* 6 x HVAR rockets + 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (500 lb total)
* 6 x HVAR rockets + 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
* 6 x HVAR rockets + 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 x Mk 78 incendiary bombs
* 2 x Mk 78 incendiary bombs + 6 x HVAR rockets

== Usage in battles ==

The P-51H-5-NA is a high altitude turn fighter. It has impressive performance against most props it may face and it can put a considerable fight against earlier jets. Compared to its German and British counterparts, it outperforms them by a fair amount in engine performance. The P-51H-5-NA can also be used as a strike fighter, as it can have great loadouts of combinations of bombs and rockets for this purpose.

Whilst having great engine performance, the P-51H-5-NA can turn impressively as well, out-manoeuvring most of its German counterparts. It has good ordnance, capable of shooting any aircraft down with relative ease, as well as being able to dodge incoming attacks by jets. It has a good climb rate which also gives it an option to put up a fight against jet encounters, being able to perform boom and zoom attacks as its energy retention is good. It has a tendency to break its wings while zoom climbing at speeds higher than 550km/h. It also uses high octane fuel, which means it has considerable susceptibility to fire.

At low altitude, fighting with a turn fighter mindset will mostly work. If jets are present, try not to drop your speeds too much, as you may need to dodge multiple shots. The P-51H-5-NA will not perform as good against jets, as it does not have comparable speeds. Boom and Zoom attacks are the most effective against jets, as this manoeuvre mostly removes the speed out of the equation.

Most enemies faced by the P-51H-5-NA will be easily taken down, but unfortunately it also faces jets from time to time. Me 262 and Ho 229 are the biggest predators of this plane. The Ho 229 will out-turn you while the Me 262 will outrun you.

Since the P-51H-5-NA has a good engine and fast climb rate, you should be higher than ALL the enemies since it's going to be hard for allied planes to turn fight with both German and Japanese planes. This is one of the main advantages of American planes: powerful engines, to out-climb and out-speed most of their German counters, because most of the time, even a 1v1 turn-fight with a Bf 109 and Fw 190 will result of you being defeated assuming the pilot knows how to fly, in order to avoid this, Boom and Zoom is the best way to get a kill with a P-51H-5-NA.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Not controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Auto control available || Combined || Not controllable 2 gears || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great top speed for a propeller-driven aircraft
* Great climb rate
* Good acceleration
* Good manoeuvrability
* M2 Browning machine guns are accurate and have lots of ammo
* Good payload options for ground attack
* Can reach over 700km at very low altitudes

'''Cons'''

* M2 Browning machine guns are a bit lacking in damage output
* Can be uptiered to fight against early jets
* Limited WEP, once it runs out the planes performance drops dramatically

== History ==


=== Development ===
The US Army approved a contract with North American Aviation to design and build a lightweight P-51 Mustang in July of 1943. The project was designated as the NA-105, and the contract specified five functioning prototypes for testing.

North American's chief of design, Edgar Schmued, visited the Supermarine and Rolls-Royce factories in England in February 1943. There, he sought to discover how the Supermarine Spitfire was so much lighter than the Mustang, and also to choose a version of the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine to be used in the lightweight Mustang. At the Supermarine factory, they did not have the data he was looking for so they simply weighed all the parts needed to build a Spitfire. It turned out that the British had lower design standards for the Landing gear, angle of attack and side engine design loads. At the Rolls-Royce factory, Schmued discovered the RM.14.SM - a new variant of the Merlin that improved the horsepower to 2,200. The RM.14.SM was not significantly heavier than the earlier engines, so Schmued chose it for the lightweight Mustang design.

Upon returning to the United States, Schmued initiated the design process for the lightweight Mustang. The engineers attempted to reduce the weight on every part they could, and the result was an aircraft 600 pounds lighter than the earlier Mustangs. There were several prototypes, designated as the XP-51F, XP-51G, and XP-51J, which were thoroughly tested. The production model (NA-126) was designated as the P-51H, and it most closely resembled the XP-51F. 1,000 P-51H Mustangs were ordered on 30 June 1944.

=== Design ===
Despite being originally based on the earlier P-51Ds, the P-51H shared little in common with the earlier models. In fact, almost no parts used on the P-51H were compatible with the P-51D. It differed visually in having smaller landing gear, there was no leading edge kink in the wing, the airframe was longer but thinner, and the belly air scoop was square like on the early Mustang variants. Additionally, the chin scoop for the engine was smaller than on previous versions.

The wheels had new disc brakes, the oil cooler was moved from the belly scoop to in front of the oil tank, and the oil used a heat exchanger for cooling. The production version of the P-51H did not end up using the RM.14.SM engine, but instead the Rolls-Royce Merlin V-1650-9 was used. The -9 gave less takeoff power than the V-1650-7, but with a water/alcohol mixture injection the wartime emergency power could be upped to 2,000 hp at 10,200 feet. The P-51H was the last major production variant of the P-51 Mustang, and it was also the fastest; it could go 487 mph at 25,000 feet.

The propeller used was the Aeroproducts 11' 1" 4-blade Unimatic, which was much lighter than the propeller used on the P-51D despite having wider blades. The fuel amount in the fuselage tank was increased to 55 gallons. The fuselage skin was made to be thinner than on the earlier Mustangs, but also was made from a lighter alloy. The cockpit was redesigned with simpler controls, the canopy was redesigned and moved forward, and the pilot sat higher up in order to better use the gunsight.

The armament of six .50 cal machine guns remained unchanged, but the ammunition stowage was modified. Removable ammunition boxes were added, and new ammo doors were included as well. This sped up the re-arming process and also helped to improve the laminar flow of the wing, which had been impeded by the earlier ammunition door design.

=== Testing and Production ===
The first P-51H flew on 3 February 1945, piloted by Bob Chilton. Only three days later, the P-51H-1-NA 44-64160 crashed after the propeller failed. P-51H-1-NA 44-64161, flown by Major J. D. Onerem, was used for extensive testing by the USAAF from the 4th of April to the 14th of April.

By VJ Day, 370 P-51H Mustangs had been delivered, and production ended in November 1945 with a total of 555 P-51Hs produced. Despite having ordered more P-51s, only the 555 were completed because of the end of World War 2; all P-51H Mustangs were built at the Inglewood plant in California.

==== Variants ====
The first P-51H variant, of which 20 were built, was known as the P-51H-1-NA, and it had the same tail as the P-51D. The second version was known as the P-51H-5-NA, featuring a new, taller tail than the earlier variants; 280 were produced. The final variant was the P-51H-10-NA, of which 255 were completed.

=== Service ===
Despite a large number of P-51H Mustangs being delivered before the end of the war, no P-51Hs saw combat in World War 2. During the Korean War, the P-51D was chosen for combat instead of the P-51H, despite having less performance. This was because there was a larger amount of P-51D Mustangs available. The P-51H was used heavily by the Air National Guard units after that period of time, and the last Mustang (a P-51D) was retired in 1957.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=p-51h-5_na Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|4v3fxupuZPA|'''Last piston fighters''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 0:42 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


;Other variants in-game

* [[P-51 (Family)]]

;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Hawker [[Tempest (Family)|Tempest]]
* Kawanishi [[N1K (Family)|N1K]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-100]]
* Messerschmitt [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]]
* Nakajima [[Ki-84 (Family)|Ki-84]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-9 (Family)|Yak-9]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/4964-development-p-51h-mustang-winged-perfection-en|[Devblog] P-51H Mustang: Winged Perfection]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/378371-p-51h5/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
* [[Wikipedia:North_American_P-51_Mustang_variants#P-51H|[Wikipedia<nowiki>]</nowiki> North American P-51 Mustang variants - P-51H]]

{{AirManufacturer NAA}}
{{USA fighters}}

P-51H-5-NA

2024-04-16T19:55:51Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = P-51 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=p-51h-5_na
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_p-51h-5_na.jpg
}}

== Description ==

The P-51H can rightly be considered the apex of the P-51 Mustang. The P-51H was an evolution from the lightweight Mustang experiments conducted in 1944. The biggest addition to the P-51H was the Packard Merlin V-1659-9. It featured an automatic boost control system and water injection. With water injection enabled, the V-1659 could produce a whopping 2,000+ hp although only for short bursts. The P-51H also featured extensive airframe modifications like a shorter carburetor air intake and longer fuselage. In preparation for the upcoming invasion of Japan, around 2,000 P-51Hs were ordered. However, the war was nearing its end and many orders were canceled. The P-51H would never see combat in either the Pacific or European theatres.

Introduced in [[Update 1.71 "New E.R.A."]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an extremely dangerous aircraft. The combination of the powerful Merlin engine and lightweight airframe makes the P-51H a capable dogfighter. It also excels in boom and zoom tactics against enemy planes thanks to the various airframe improvements. Much like the other Mustang variants, the P-51H comes equipped with six M2 Browning machine guns and various loadouts of bombs and rockets. Players will be greatly satisfied with the P-51H's capability against enemy aircraft and ability to attack ground targets.

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

The {{PAGENAME}} handles much better than its predecessors. It has a noticeably improved rate of climb that is one of the best in the game when it comes to propeller-driven aircraft. It is also an extremely fast aircraft and can outrun and outclimb almost all opponents in most situations. Its turn rate isn't as good as some other aircraft at its rank so don't get into long turning battles that take up large amounts of energy. However, it can turn well at higher speeds, but doing so is more risky considering that other aircraft can dogfight better by turning at lower speeds at a greater rate. The best way to use the advantages of the aircraft's speed and climb-rate is to use boom and zoom tactics. Handling and speed are diminished when bombs are loaded, which is the same for all aircraft. The key to winning in this aircraft is to stay fast, stay high, and pick your battles. It can be an extremely deadly aircraft if flown by an experienced pilot.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 7,000 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
| 736 || 717 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 19.6 || 20.8 || 12.1 || 12.1 || rowspan="2" | 396
|-
! Upgraded
| 828 || 776 || 18.7 || 19.0 || 27.0 || 18.2
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 651 || 520 || 265 || ~11 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 480 || < 400 || < 420 || > 300
|-
|}

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


* 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot.
* 19.05 mm Steel plate in front of the engine.
* 6.35 mm Steel plate between the engine and pilot.
* 15.87 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

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

* 6 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (260 rpg outer + 260 rpg mid + 390 rpg inner = 1,820 total)

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

{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|Mk 78 incendiary}}
{{main|HVAR|M8}}

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

* Without load
* 6 x HVAR rockets
* 6 x M8 rockets
* 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
* 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (500 lb total)
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
* 6 x HVAR rockets + 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (500 lb total)
* 6 x HVAR rockets + 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
* 6 x HVAR rockets + 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 x Mk 78 incendiary bombs
* 2 x Mk 78 incendiary bombs + 6 x HVAR rockets

== Usage in battles ==

The P-51H-5-NA is a high altitude turn fighter. It has impressive performance against most props it may face and it can put a considerable fight against earlier jets. Compared to its German and British counterparts, it outperforms them by a fair amount in engine performance. The P-51H-5-NA can also be used as a strike fighter, as it can have great loadouts of combinations of bombs and rockets for this purpose.

Whilst having great engine performance, the P-51H-5-NA can turn impressively as well, out-manoeuvring most of its German counterparts. It has good ordnance, capable of shooting any aircraft down with relative ease, as well as being able to dodge incoming attacks by jets. It has a good climb rate which also gives it an option to put up a fight against jet encounters, being able to perform boom and zoom attacks as its energy retention is good. It has a tendency to break its wings while zoom climbing at speeds higher than 550km/h. It also uses high octane fuel, which means it has considerable susceptibility to fire.

At low altitude, fighting with a turn fighter mindset will mostly work. If jets are present, try not to drop your speeds too much, as you may need to dodge multiple shots. The P-51H-5-NA will not perform as good against jets, as it does not have comparable speeds. Boom and Zoom attacks are the most effective against jets, as this manoeuvre mostly removes the speed out of the equation.

Most enemies faced by the P-51H-5-NA will be easily taken down, but unfortunately it also faces jets from time to time. Me 262 and Ho 229 are the biggest predators of this plane. The Ho 229 will out-turn you while the Me 262 will outrun you.

Since the P-51H-5-NA has a good engine and fast climb rate, you should be higher than ALL the enemies since it's going to be hard for allied planes to turn fight with both German and Japanese planes. This is one of the main advantages of American planes: powerful engines, to out-climb and out-speed most of their German counters, because most of the time, even a 1v1 turn-fight with a Bf 109 and Fw 190 will result of you being defeated assuming the pilot knows how to fly, in order to avoid this, Boom and Zoom is the best way to get a kill with a P-51H-5-NA.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Not controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Auto control available || Combined || Not controllable 2 gears || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* The fastest prop at any BR
* Great climb rate
* Good acceleration
* Good manoeuvrability
* M2 Browning machine guns are accurate and have lots of ammo
* Good payload options for ground attack

'''Cons'''

* Can be uptiered to fight against early jets
* Limited WEP, once it runs out the planes performance drops dramatically

== History ==


=== Development ===
The US Army approved a contract with North American Aviation to design and build a lightweight P-51 Mustang in July of 1943. The project was designated as the NA-105, and the contract specified five functioning prototypes for testing.

North American's chief of design, Edgar Schmued, visited the Supermarine and Rolls-Royce factories in England in February 1943. There, he sought to discover how the Supermarine Spitfire was so much lighter than the Mustang, and also to choose a version of the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine to be used in the lightweight Mustang. At the Supermarine factory, they did not have the data he was looking for so they simply weighed all the parts needed to build a Spitfire. It turned out that the British had lower design standards for the Landing gear, angle of attack and side engine design loads. At the Rolls-Royce factory, Schmued discovered the RM.14.SM - a new variant of the Merlin that improved the horsepower to 2,200. The RM.14.SM was not significantly heavier than the earlier engines, so Schmued chose it for the lightweight Mustang design.

Upon returning to the United States, Schmued initiated the design process for the lightweight Mustang. The engineers attempted to reduce the weight on every part they could, and the result was an aircraft 600 pounds lighter than the earlier Mustangs. There were several prototypes, designated as the XP-51F, XP-51G, and XP-51J, which were thoroughly tested. The production model (NA-126) was designated as the P-51H, and it most closely resembled the XP-51F. 1,000 P-51H Mustangs were ordered on 30 June 1944.

=== Design ===
Despite being originally based on the earlier P-51Ds, the P-51H shared little in common with the earlier models. In fact, almost no parts used on the P-51H were compatible with the P-51D. It differed visually in having smaller landing gear, there was no leading edge kink in the wing, the airframe was longer but thinner, and the belly air scoop was square like on the early Mustang variants. Additionally, the chin scoop for the engine was smaller than on previous versions.

The wheels had new disc brakes, the oil cooler was moved from the belly scoop to in front of the oil tank, and the oil used a heat exchanger for cooling. The production version of the P-51H did not end up using the RM.14.SM engine, but instead the Rolls-Royce Merlin V-1650-9 was used. The -9 gave less takeoff power than the V-1650-7, but with a water/alcohol mixture injection the wartime emergency power could be upped to 2,000 hp at 10,200 feet. The P-51H was the last major production variant of the P-51 Mustang, and it was also the fastest; it could go 487 mph at 25,000 feet.

The propeller used was the Aeroproducts 11' 1" 4-blade Unimatic, which was much lighter than the propeller used on the P-51D despite having wider blades. The fuel amount in the fuselage tank was increased to 55 gallons. The fuselage skin was made to be thinner than on the earlier Mustangs, but also was made from a lighter alloy. The cockpit was redesigned with simpler controls, the canopy was redesigned and moved forward, and the pilot sat higher up in order to better use the gunsight.

The armament of six .50 cal machine guns remained unchanged, but the ammunition stowage was modified. Removable ammunition boxes were added, and new ammo doors were included as well. This sped up the re-arming process and also helped to improve the laminar flow of the wing, which had been impeded by the earlier ammunition door design.

=== Testing and Production ===
The first P-51H flew on 3 February 1945, piloted by Bob Chilton. Only three days later, the P-51H-1-NA 44-64160 crashed after the propeller failed. P-51H-1-NA 44-64161, flown by Major J. D. Onerem, was used for extensive testing by the USAAF from the 4th of April to the 14th of April.

By VJ Day, 370 P-51H Mustangs had been delivered, and production ended in November 1945 with a total of 555 P-51Hs produced. Despite having ordered more P-51s, only the 555 were completed because of the end of World War 2; all P-51H Mustangs were built at the Inglewood plant in California.

==== Variants ====
The first P-51H variant, of which 20 were built, was known as the P-51H-1-NA, and it had the same tail as the P-51D. The second version was known as the P-51H-5-NA, featuring a new, taller tail than the earlier variants; 280 were produced. The final variant was the P-51H-10-NA, of which 255 were completed.

=== Service ===
Despite a large number of P-51H Mustangs being delivered before the end of the war, no P-51Hs saw combat in World War 2. During the Korean War, the P-51D was chosen for combat instead of the P-51H, despite having less performance. This was because there was a larger amount of P-51D Mustangs available. The P-51H was used heavily by the Air National Guard units after that period of time, and the last Mustang (a P-51D) was retired in 1957.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=p-51h-5_na Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|4v3fxupuZPA|'''Last piston fighters''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 0:42 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


;Other variants in-game

* [[P-51 (Family)]]

;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Hawker [[Tempest (Family)|Tempest]]
* Kawanishi [[N1K (Family)|N1K]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-100]]
* Messerschmitt [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]]
* Nakajima [[Ki-84 (Family)|Ki-84]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-9 (Family)|Yak-9]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/4964-development-p-51h-mustang-winged-perfection-en|[Devblog] P-51H Mustang: Winged Perfection]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/378371-p-51h5/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
* [[Wikipedia:North_American_P-51_Mustang_variants#P-51H|[Wikipedia<nowiki>]</nowiki> North American P-51 Mustang variants - P-51H]]

{{AirManufacturer NAA}}
{{USA fighters}}

B-57B

2024-04-16T19:50:57Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American jet bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Canberra (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b-57b
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==


The '''Martin B-57B Canberra''' was the second version of the license-built British [[Canberra (Family)|English Electric Canberra]] jet bomber/reconnaissance aircraft. Compared to the unarmed [[B-57A]] which was a complete copy of the original Canberra, the B-57B had several changes, most notably the inclusion of eight M3 Browning machine guns (and later four 20 mm M39 autocannons) as an offensive armament for strafing attack, an improved "fighter-style" cockpit that improved the pilot's visibility, a "rotary" bombing bay that improved the deployment time and accuracy of bombs, improved airbrakes, four additional hardpoints on the wings, and an addition of a radar warning receiver. These modifications proved to be a success, as it allowed the B-57B to be easily adapted into various roles, ranging from bombing to electronic warfare. In total, 202 B-57Bs were built, and served under the USAF in various roles through the Vietnam War before it was retired in 1983.

It was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]]. Compared to its predecessor the [[B-57A]], the B-57B focuses more on low level ground attack and can carry large amounts of offensive external weaponry. B-57A players will rejoice upon unlocking the B-57B, as it is an improvement in almost every way, with actual offensive armament, better turn time, better payloads (including rockets and napalms), and overall versatility. Compared to the very similar [[Canberra B (I) Mk 6]], the B-57B starts out with eight Browning machine guns mounted quite far on the wings, which results into a much worse anti-air capability, though this can be upgraded with four 20 mm M39 autocannons with an incredible rate of fire, giving it a much harder-hitting punch than its British counterpart.

Whilst a lone B-57B out in the open is an easy target for intercepting aircraft and is no match for the likes of the [[MiG-15 (Family)|MiG-15]] or [[F-86 (Family)|Sabre]] in combat (especially with payloads), communication and coordination with teammates will allow pilots of this aircraft to effectively strike targets of strategic importance with precision and to devastating effect. Alternatively, a daring B-57B pilot may try their luck and use it as a makeshift "interceptor", not dissimilar to the French [[Vautour (Family)|Vautour]], and shred any plane below or in front of them with four blistering autocannons.

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


Like the [[B-57A]], the B-57B has an overall smooth flight performance. The plane is generally responsive at all but higher speeds (above 900 km/h) and handles quite well. The plane has a decent turn rate (especially at around 600 - 700 km/h), though doing so will cost a lot of energy. Due to the weight, the B-57B has generally poor roll rate, especially in positive G rolls that would be almost guaranteed to stall a plane if performed at medium speeds.

Since the B-57B has a bomber airspawn, a crafty B-57B pilot may chose to forgo their bombing duties and play the B-57B as an "air defence fighter" instead. By not equipping any payload, the B-57B can climb significantly higher and turns quicker than before. This allows it to win a dogfight even against dedicated fighters should the player maintain their energy and altitude advantage.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 762 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
| 918 || 892 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 56.2 || 57.4 || 22.7 || 21.2 || rowspan="2" | 1,050
|-
! Upgraded
| 996 || 963 || 53.9 || 55.0 || 32.8 || 28.5
|-
|}

==== 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 990  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 498 || 469 || 320 || ~7 || ~3
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 561 || < 523 || < 510 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="6" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Wright J65-W-5 || 2
| colspan="3" | 13,350 kg || colspan="3" | 226 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 15m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 50m fuel
|-
| 1,260 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
| 15,402 kg || 16,066 kg || 17,394 kg || 19,386 kg || 20,050 kg || 25,854 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="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 15m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 50m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 3,265 kgf || N/A
| 0.42 || 0.41 || 0.38 || 0.34 || 0.33 || 0.25
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 3,265 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.42 || 0.41 || 0.38 || 0.34 || 0.33 || 0.25
|-
|}

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


* No armour plating
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Armoured glass windscreen
* Critical components located in front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls)
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (3 in central fuselage, 1 in each wing)

Survivability of the B-57B is rather poor, with its large wings in particular being an obvious weakspots, as destroying the outer leading edges of the wings will sent the plane into an uncontrollable spin and inevitably crash the plane.

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

There are two research routes a B-57B pilot can take; either researching the payload modification to deal higher damage against bases and ground vehicles, or research the "M39 cannon" to improve the plane's offensive capabilities. If one is to use the B-57B as a fighter, the "New 20 mm cannons are ''not'' recommended, as the improved trajectory will actually result in the 20 mm autocannons being harder to actually hit the targets due to awkward convergence. The other modifications then can be chosen at your liking.

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M3 Browning (12.7 mm)|M39 (20 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 8 x 12.7 mm M3 Browning machine guns (300 rpg = 2,400 total)
** 4 x 20 mm M39 cannons (290 rpg = 1,160 total)

When stock, the B-57B is armed with eight .50 cal Browning machine guns mounted in the outer wings, resulting in awkward convergence angles. The guns has a very good rate of fire and ammo count, but they are generally mediocre against air targets due to the low damage output per rounds, thus requiring several hits to score critical damage, something that can be hard to achieve in fast-paced jet combat. Because of this, it is best reserved for strafing ground targets.

In case you wanted a better chance at downing enemy aircraft, the Canberra has an option to equip four 20 mm M39 autocannons. Compared to the Hispano Mk.V on its British cousin the [[Canberra B (I) Mk 6]], the M39 is mounted further apart on the wings rather than the centerline, resulting in poor convergence, but is more than made up with twice the rate of fire of 1,500 rpm, allowing it to easily cripple anything it hits.

Because of the gun's poor convergence, it is recommended ''not'' to install the "New 20 mm guns" modification, as this will cause the shell to spread and create a small cloud of lead that has a better chance of hitting any aircraft within its vicinity, especially in a head-ons or while chasing.

=== 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
| rowspan="7" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[AN-M57 (250 lb)|250 lb AN-M57]] bombs
| || || || || 21 || || || ||
|-
! [[AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|500 lb AN-M64A1]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 9 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 4 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[AN-M65A1 Fin M129 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb AN-M65A1 Fin M129]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 4 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[BLU-27/B incendiary]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[HVAR]] rockets
| 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| colspan="10" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 4,010 kg
|-
|}

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

* 21 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (5,250 lb total)
* 8 x HVAR rockets
* 16 x HVAR rockets
* 9 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 13 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (6,500 lb total)
* 8 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 Fin M129 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 8 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 Fin M129 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

Unlike the [[B-57A]] model before it, the B-57B included numerous improvements and modifications to the airframe and armament that allow it to play a much more aggressive and offensive role in the battle. Able to mount up to 16 x 127 mm [[HVAR]] rockets on its external pylons in conjunction with heavy bomb loads, the B-57B is best suited to taking out armoured targets or naval targets such as destroyers and cruisers.

As well as its ability to deliver massive offensive potential to targets at high speeds, it is also equipped with eight wing-mounted 12.7 mm [[Browning M3 (12.7 mm)|Browning M3]] machine guns that hold a healthy 2,800 rounds of ammunition, allowing it to attack light targets with ease, but also provides air-to-air combat potential for pilots. However, these HMGs are fitted far on the outside of each wing making gun convergence a big issue. This can be improved with a switch to four 20 mm M39 autocannons that can easily shreds any planes apart, especially in head-ons.

Another novel feature of the B model is its rotating bomb bay that can hold large stores of a variety of bombs to complement its wing-mounted payloads. With a maximum potential loadout of 8 x [[AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb bombs]] coupled with 8 x 127 mm HVAR rockets, the B-57B is one of the most versatile aircraft in-game at rank V.

By comparison to its contemporary jet attack-bombers of other nations, the [[IL-28]], [[Ar 234 C-3|Arado 234 C-3]], [[Canberra B (I) Mk 6|Canberra B (I) Mk 6]] and [[R2Y2 Kai V1|R2Y2]] series, the B-57B can carry the largest payload thanks to its external stores, making this the ideal choice for players who prefer more aggressive and direct attack roles in the skies.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good low altitude performance
* Has a access to ballistic gun sights
* Great horizontal manoeuvrability, especially without payloads
* While not carry any payload, the plane has a decent climb rate and straight line energy retention
* High acceleration provides enough speed to outrun most pre-Korean War jets
* Can mount four 20 mm autocannons that can easily rip any enemy aircraft apart
* The 20mm have a very high rate of fire
* Impressive and versatile payload
* Great cockpit visibility in SB
* Very fast

'''Cons:'''

* Large target, its wings in particular are very vulnerable
* Slower than half enemy jets it faces
* Poor performance at high altitude
* Poor roll rate and energy retention; loses tons of speed in turns
* Has a lower rate of clime that the B-57A

== History ==

The Martin B-57B was a development of the licence-built version of the British [[Canberra B Mk 2|Canberra B Mk 2]], the [[B-57A]]. After its impressive performances at the Farnborough airshows in the early 1950s, the United States of America were keen to acquire the record setting jet bomber to fulfil the role of fast attacker similar to their current [[A-26C-45|A-26]] model. America had no suitable replacements for the Invader's position and experiences in Korea had proven the value of an Interdiction attacker.

As such, licence production of the Canberra was given by English Electric to Martin for the B-57A. Whilst the A model was essentially the same as the British variant, the B model had numerous improvements and changes over the A model that distinguishes it from the original Canberra design. Features such as a redesigned canopy that required 2 crew rather than 3, newer engines, improved wing strength coupled with pylons for large external stores, more effective airbrakes and the Martin's reduced drag rotary bomb bay from previous test aircraft were all included into the B model. As well as this, the B-57B also had offensive armament in the form of 8 Browning M3 machine guns with 4 in each wing, however, this was later updated to 4 x 20 mm M39 cannon.

All of this combined lead to the emergence of a highly effective interdiction aircraft that now differed greatly from its British counterpart to which it was based upon. Even with the rapid pace of jet aircraft development, the B-57B continued on in service thanks to its flexibility and versatility of combat roles. Numerous payloads options and configurations existed that allowed for a multitude of possible tasks including interdiction, reconnaissance or high altitude bombing. Whilst the primary models would retire in the late 1970s towards the early 1980s, highly modified variants still continue to serve in research and development roles for NASA even today.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b-57b 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/devblog/current/748/|[Devblog] B-57B-2 and T-28E]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/264952-martin-b-57b/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
* [[wt:en/news/3099/current/|[Vehicle Profile] B-57B Canberra [Decal Included]]]

{{AirManufacturer Martin}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

B-57B

2024-04-16T19:49:40Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American jet bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Canberra (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b-57b
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==


The '''Martin B-57B Canberra''' was the second version of the license-built British [[Canberra (Family)|English Electric Canberra]] jet bomber/reconnaissance aircraft. Compared to the unarmed [[B-57A]] which was a complete copy of the original Canberra, the B-57B had several changes, most notably the inclusion of eight M3 Browning machine guns (and later four 20 mm M39 autocannons) as an offensive armament for strafing attack, an improved "fighter-style" cockpit that improved the pilot's visibility, a "rotary" bombing bay that improved the deployment time and accuracy of bombs, improved airbrakes, four additional hardpoints on the wings, and an addition of a radar warning receiver. These modifications proved to be a success, as it allowed the B-57B to be easily adapted into various roles, ranging from bombing to electronic warfare. In total, 202 B-57Bs were built, and served under the USAF in various roles through the Vietnam War before it was retired in 1983.

It was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]]. Compared to its predecessor the [[B-57A]], the B-57B focuses more on low level ground attack and can carry large amounts of offensive external weaponry. B-57A players will rejoice upon unlocking the B-57B, as it is an improvement in almost every way, with actual offensive armament, better turn time, better payloads (including rockets and napalms), and overall versatility. Compared to the very similar [[Canberra B (I) Mk 6]], the B-57B starts out with eight Browning machine guns mounted quite far on the wings, which results into a much worse anti-air capability, though this can be upgraded with four 20 mm M39 autocannons with an incredible rate of fire, giving it a much harder-hitting punch than its British counterpart.

Whilst a lone B-57B out in the open is an easy target for intercepting aircraft and is no match for the likes of the [[MiG-15 (Family)|MiG-15]] or [[F-86 (Family)|Sabre]] in combat (especially with payloads), communication and coordination with teammates will allow pilots of this aircraft to effectively strike targets of strategic importance with precision and to devastating effect. Alternatively, a daring B-57B pilot may try their luck and use it as a makeshift "interceptor", not dissimilar to the French [[Vautour (Family)|Vautour]], and shred any plane below or in front of them with four blistering autocannons.

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


Like the [[B-57A]], the B-57B has an overall smooth flight performance. The plane is generally responsive at all but higher speeds (above 900 km/h) and handles quite well. The plane has a decent turn rate (especially at around 600 - 700 km/h), though doing so will cost a lot of energy. Due to the weight, the B-57B has generally poor roll rate, especially in positive G rolls that would be almost guaranteed to stall a plane if performed at medium speeds.

Since the B-57B has a bomber airspawn, a crafty B-57B pilot may chose to forgo their bombing duties and play the B-57B as an "air defence fighter" instead. By not equipping any payload, the B-57B can climb significantly higher and turns quicker than before. This allows it to win a dogfight even against dedicated fighters should the player maintain their energy and altitude advantage.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 762 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
| 918 || 892 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 56.2 || 57.4 || 22.7 || 21.2 || rowspan="2" | 1,050
|-
! Upgraded
| 996 || 963 || 53.9 || 55.0 || 32.8 || 28.5
|-
|}

==== 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 990  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 498 || 469 || 320 || ~7 || ~3
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 561 || < 523 || < 510 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="6" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Wright J65-W-5 || 2
| colspan="3" | 13,350 kg || colspan="3" | 226 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 15m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 50m fuel
|-
| 1,260 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
| 15,402 kg || 16,066 kg || 17,394 kg || 19,386 kg || 20,050 kg || 25,854 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="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 15m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 50m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 3,265 kgf || N/A
| 0.42 || 0.41 || 0.38 || 0.34 || 0.33 || 0.25
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 3,265 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.42 || 0.41 || 0.38 || 0.34 || 0.33 || 0.25
|-
|}

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


* No armour plating
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Armoured glass windscreen
* Critical components located in front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls)
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (3 in central fuselage, 1 in each wing)

Survivability of the B-57B is rather poor, with its large wings in particular being an obvious weakspots, as destroying the outer leading edges of the wings will sent the plane into an uncontrollable spin and inevitably crash the plane.

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

There are two research routes a B-57B pilot can take; either researching the payload modification to deal higher damage against bases and ground vehicles, or research the "M39 cannon" to improve the plane's offensive capabilities. If one is to use the B-57B as a fighter, the "New 20 mm cannons are ''not'' recommended, as the improved trajectory will actually result in the 20 mm autocannons being harder to actually hit the targets due to awkward convergence. The other modifications then can be chosen at your liking.

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M3 Browning (12.7 mm)|M39 (20 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 8 x 12.7 mm M3 Browning machine guns (300 rpg = 2,400 total)
** 4 x 20 mm M39 cannons (290 rpg = 1,160 total)

When stock, the B-57B is armed with eight .50 cal Browning machine guns mounted in the outer wings, resulting in awkward convergence angles. The guns has a very good rate of fire and ammo count, but they are generally mediocre against air targets due to the low damage output per rounds, thus requiring several hits to score critical damage, something that can be hard to achieve in fast-paced jet combat. Because of this, it is best reserved for strafing ground targets.

In case you wanted a better chance at downing enemy aircraft, the Canberra has an option to equip four 20 mm M39 autocannons. Compared to the Hispano Mk.V on its British cousin the [[Canberra B (I) Mk 6]], the M39 is mounted further apart on the wings rather than the centerline, resulting in poor convergence, but is more than made up with twice the rate of fire of 1,500 rpm, allowing it to easily cripple anything it hits.

Because of the gun's poor convergence, it is recommended ''not'' to install the "New 20 mm guns" modification, as this will cause the shell to spread and create a small cloud of lead that has a better chance of hitting any aircraft within its vicinity, especially in a head-ons or while chasing.

=== 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
| rowspan="7" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[AN-M57 (250 lb)|250 lb AN-M57]] bombs
| || || || || 21 || || || ||
|-
! [[AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|500 lb AN-M64A1]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 9 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 4 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[AN-M65A1 Fin M129 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb AN-M65A1 Fin M129]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 4 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[BLU-27/B incendiary]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[HVAR]] rockets
| 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| colspan="10" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 4,010 kg
|-
|}

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

* 21 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (5,250 lb total)
* 8 x HVAR rockets
* 16 x HVAR rockets
* 9 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 13 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (6,500 lb total)
* 8 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 Fin M129 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 8 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 Fin M129 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

Unlike the [[B-57A]] model before it, the B-57B included numerous improvements and modifications to the airframe and armament that allow it to play a much more aggressive and offensive role in the battle. Able to mount up to 16 x 127 mm [[HVAR]] rockets on its external pylons in conjunction with heavy bomb loads, the B-57B is best suited to taking out armoured targets or naval targets such as destroyers and cruisers.

As well as its ability to deliver massive offensive potential to targets at high speeds, it is also equipped with eight wing-mounted 12.7 mm [[Browning M3 (12.7 mm)|Browning M3]] machine guns that hold a healthy 2,800 rounds of ammunition, allowing it to attack light targets with ease, but also provides air-to-air combat potential for pilots. However, these HMGs are fitted far on the outside of each wing making gun convergence a big issue. This can be improved with a switch to four 20 mm M39 autocannons that can easily shreds any planes apart, especially in head-ons.

Another novel feature of the B model is its rotating bomb bay that can hold large stores of a variety of bombs to complement its wing-mounted payloads. With a maximum potential loadout of 8 x [[AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb bombs]] coupled with 8 x 127 mm HVAR rockets, the B-57B is one of the most versatile aircraft in-game at rank V.

By comparison to its contemporary jet attack-bombers of other nations, the [[IL-28]], [[Ar 234 C-3|Arado 234 C-3]], [[Canberra B (I) Mk 6|Canberra B (I) Mk 6]] and [[R2Y2 Kai V1|R2Y2]] series, the B-57B can carry the largest payload thanks to its external stores, making this the ideal choice for players who prefer more aggressive and direct attack roles in the skies.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good low altitude performance
* Great horizontal manoeuvrability, especially without payloads
* While not carry any payload, the plane has a decent climb rate and straight line energy retention
* High acceleration provides enough speed to outrun most pre-Korean War jets
* Can mount four 20 mm autocannons that can easily rip any enemy aircraft apart
* The 20mm have a very high rate of fire
* Impressive and versatile payload
* Great cockpit visibility in SB
* Very fast

'''Cons:'''

* Large target, its wings in particular are very vulnerable
* Slower than half enemy jets it faces
* Poor performance at high altitude
* Poor roll rate and energy retention; loses tons of speed in turns
* Has a lower rate of clime that the B-57A

== History ==

The Martin B-57B was a development of the licence-built version of the British [[Canberra B Mk 2|Canberra B Mk 2]], the [[B-57A]]. After its impressive performances at the Farnborough airshows in the early 1950s, the United States of America were keen to acquire the record setting jet bomber to fulfil the role of fast attacker similar to their current [[A-26C-45|A-26]] model. America had no suitable replacements for the Invader's position and experiences in Korea had proven the value of an Interdiction attacker.

As such, licence production of the Canberra was given by English Electric to Martin for the B-57A. Whilst the A model was essentially the same as the British variant, the B model had numerous improvements and changes over the A model that distinguishes it from the original Canberra design. Features such as a redesigned canopy that required 2 crew rather than 3, newer engines, improved wing strength coupled with pylons for large external stores, more effective airbrakes and the Martin's reduced drag rotary bomb bay from previous test aircraft were all included into the B model. As well as this, the B-57B also had offensive armament in the form of 8 Browning M3 machine guns with 4 in each wing, however, this was later updated to 4 x 20 mm M39 cannon.

All of this combined lead to the emergence of a highly effective interdiction aircraft that now differed greatly from its British counterpart to which it was based upon. Even with the rapid pace of jet aircraft development, the B-57B continued on in service thanks to its flexibility and versatility of combat roles. Numerous payloads options and configurations existed that allowed for a multitude of possible tasks including interdiction, reconnaissance or high altitude bombing. Whilst the primary models would retire in the late 1970s towards the early 1980s, highly modified variants still continue to serve in research and development roles for NASA even today.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b-57b 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/devblog/current/748/|[Devblog] B-57B-2 and T-28E]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/264952-martin-b-57b/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
* [[wt:en/news/3099/current/|[Vehicle Profile] B-57B Canberra [Decal Included]]]

{{AirManufacturer Martin}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

B-57A

2024-04-16T19:46:47Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
|about= American jet bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage= other versions
|link= Canberra (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b-57
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
|cockpit=cockpit_b-57.jpg
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American jet bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.43]].

The B-57A is an unarmed plane so survivability depends on the speed. Luckily the two Wright Aeronautical J65 turbojet engines provide enough thrust to out-speed many fighters. Maximum speed is 950 km/h for a fully upgraded variant and 902 km/h for a stock variant. As was mentioned manoeuvrability is the key, but be aware of pulling your nose down, because the airframe can survive only -6G. However, +12G is almost unreachable value for the vast majority of your opponents. These attributes allow doing very sharp and high-G turns. The payload is adequate. Of course, it's not a B-29, but 9 x 500 lb bombs or 6 x 1,000 lb bombs can do a really nice job.

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


Note: In regards to the B-57A's maximum speed in Indicated Air Speed (IAS), at lower temperatures (normally in high altitudes) the Maximum Mach Operating (MMO) is used and is 0.82, or around 1,012 km/h.

When landing, the B-57A can dramatically reduce speed: you can be less than 2 km away from the airfield, and slow down to landing speed in seconds. This also means you can quickly return to the airfield and rearm compared to other jets at this BR, like the [[Me 163 B|Me 163]].

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 0 m - sea level)
! 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
| 926 || 903 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 59.2 || 59.9 || 24.5 || 23.1 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 960 || 946 || 57.2 || 58.0 || 39.3 || 32.0
|-
|}

==== 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 990  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 498 || 469 || 320 || ~8 || ~3
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 561 || < 523 || < 510 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="6" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Wright J65-W-5 || 2
| colspan="3" | 11,200 kg || colspan="3" | 201 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 15m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 50m fuel
|-
| 1,260 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
| 13,245 kg || 13,905 kg || 15,230 kg || 17,214 kg || 17,876 kg || 24,947 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="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 15m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 50m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 3,265 kgf || N/A
| 0.49 || 0.47 || 0.43 || 0.38 || 0.37 || 0.26
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 3,265 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.49 || 0.47 || 0.43 || 0.38 || 0.37 || 0.26
|-
|}

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


* No armour protection
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (3 in central fuselage, 1 in each wing)

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

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

{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 Fin M129 (1,000 lb)}}

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

* 9 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 6 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 Fin M129 bombs (6,000 lb total)

== Usage in battles ==

As for the B-57A have 2 powerful jet engine and no guns. The tactic for this bomber is simple. Start your game at the air and dive.
You will gain speed while you are diving. Hold the speed until you destroyed your target. After that, pull your head up to 60 degrees. Climb to 10,000-16,000 ft.

The 1,000 lbs are effective base-destroyers, 3 x 1,000 lb bombs are enough for a single bombing-point in RB and SB. For AB you need more bombs, a whole bomb-load is usually enough to destroy a bombing-point. In AB, it is recommended flying high as it is possible, in danger you can always use your top-speed to run away. In realistic battles, mode is very important to communicate with a team. Don't be afraid of using the in-game chat, just write which one base you are heading. This can avoid a situation when multiple bombers are going to bomb the same target. If you are a lone bomber in your team, count that you are able to destroy 3 bases in 2 runs (with the 1,000 lb bombs, 3 bases in 3 runs with the stock payload).

The 500 lbs (stock bomb-load) is also a great possibility. Use these if you want to destroy some land-targets as are tanks, destroyers or pillboxes. For all tanks and pillboxes, you need only 1 x 500 lb bomb, a single bomb can be used also for destroyers. In AB I wouldn't use ground-target bombing, but if you want to, keep eye on your speed value. Be prepared for enemies with a tunnel-vision (a condition, when the player focuses only on a single goal - shut down). However, RB is awesome for ground-units score-farming. Try to be accurate. To do so, it's recommended to fly in the same line as is the targets move. Pre-aim slightly to track the future position of the ground unit.

Try to fly low to increase a hit-change (but not to low, bombs splash damage could blow you up - 400 m over the target is optimal). However be aware, the faster are you going the less accurate the aiming cross is. You need to compensate for this. Just practicing can show you how to do it. To maximize XP and SL income, attack big pillboxes (not moving target = easier to hit) or destroyers.

To combine tactical awareness and accurate bombing try the boom and zoom tactic. Copy the line of ships movement, drop to 400-500 m (enjoy your highest speed), bomb the target, pull into the almost vertical flight (70% angle), reach 2,500-3,000 m, turn back, and dive on the target again. Keep in mind, that B-57 is not a dive bomber, so level the plane quickly. Also, be aware of -6G limit, just don't push the nose down aggressively.

To survive on the battlefield trying to keep out of fighters radius. But if the enemy finds you and is prepared to shoot you down, try these tips:

# If an enemey Boom & Zooms on you - let him come, prepare for a sharp turn, using your +12G resistance. Turn, when the enemy is within a 1 km radius, almost no one can follow you in such an unexpected manoeuvre. It will buy you time, but try to disappear as soon as possible.
# Fighter on your 6 - only reaching the top-speed can save you. Only MiG-15s and Venoms (+ Sea Meteors in dive) can catch you. Find the clouds to shake them off. Don't try to climb if any bomb is left in the bomb bay.
# Going to land, X enemy fighter is over the AF (airfield) - You have no chance to land. You can use the in-game chat to call for help or grab things into your own hands. Be bait for your team; let the enemy fly on your 6 (of course with enough distance) and Boom & Zoom over the AF. AA may shoot down the enemy. Keep calm and watch your speed, don't let him catch you.
# The last plane in the team - if you left alone (out of bombs) and enemies are circling over the AF, go high as possible. But please, don't restrain, if you dont have ground-unit superiority.
# When the enemy plane/planes have landed - go and drop bombs on them.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Decent horizontal manoeuvrability
* Effective air brakes
* Climbs very well
* All bombs are held internally and therefore do not significantly impact performance
* Complete and detailed cockpit (useful in SB)
* Outruns all pre Korean war jets
* Very fast

'''Cons:'''

* Unarmed; no offensive/defensive weapons of any kind whatsoever
* Engines overheat at low altitudes
* Expensive to repair in comparison to the silver lions it can generate
* Bad energy retention; loses most of its speed in a single turn
* Poor roll rate

== History ==


In 1951 the US Air Force was looking for a reliable assault aircraft after the failure of the 1949 Martin XB-51 project. The English Electric Canberra was already known for its operational versatility, flexibility, ease of handling, range and payload capacity. Martin accordingly contracted for the Canberra under licence. The first Canberra B.2 left Aldergrove, Northern Ireland on February 21, 1951, and crossed the Atlantic non-stop and without refuelling, becoming the first jet to do so in 4 hours and 37 minutes.

The first eight B-57As were US conversions of this first prototype aircraft, with only some structural details adapted for US manufacturing. First flight was July 1953. The initial pre-production models were followed by 67 RB-57A reconnaissance versions, with first deliveries to the USAF commencing in April 1954.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b-57 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[Canberra (Family)]]
** [[B-57B]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/devblog/current/649|[Devblog] B-57A Canberra]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/265593-martin-b-57a/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Martin}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

P-400

2024-04-14T16:04:56Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = P-39 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=p-400
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_p-400.jpg
}}

== Description ==

The '''P-400''' was the American redesignation for the export model of the [[P-39 (Family)|P-39 Airacobra]], intended to be sent to Britain and other Allies. It was equipped with a 20 mm Hispano cannon in the nose, rather than the typical 37 mm of other models. Britain ordered 675 P-39s (redesignated as the "Airacobra Mk I") starting in September 1940; however, once they began to arrive in September 1941, it was quickly found that they had inadequate climb rate and high-altitude performance, and only 80 were operated. 200 were later sent from Britain to the Soviet Union. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, the US requisitioned another 200 of the units intended to be sent to Britain (redesignating them "P-400"), some of which were later sent on for use in the RAAF.

It was introduced in [[Update 1.37]]. The P-400 is the "little brother" of the [[P-39 (Family)|P-39]] and [[P-63 (Family)|P-63]]. Reaching maximum speed at an altitude of 2,400 m (7,900 ft) means you will have to look for enemies below you, or sacrifice speed to meet the opposition higher up. At medium and low altitudes it can be considered quite a fast plane for its BR range. It handles turning at higher speed rather well but can become unstable at lower speeds. Watch out when engaging in stall fighting (hammerheads & yo-yos). The P-400 can survive at high speeds while diving, but suffers from compression. The plane is suitable for high speeds attacks where you work more with horizontal rather than vertical movements. The P-400 has good weapons consisting of one 20 mm cannon with 60 rounds and two .50 cals and four .30 cals. If you have a good aim, you can destroy enemies in seconds, but if you don't the limited cannon ammo will run out in about 10-15 seconds. The .50 cals will still destroy foes reasonably quick, though the .30 cals require the right amount of accuracy, consistency and concentrated fire.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 2,400 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
| 553 || 536 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.2 || 24.1 || 6.9 || 6.9 || rowspan="2" | 320
|-
! Upgraded
| 603 || 576 || 21.2 || 22.0 || 13.3 || 9.7
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 886  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 400 || 374 || 233 || ~12 || ~9
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 360 || < 380 || < 450 || > 312
|-
|}

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

'''Armour plates:'''

* 15.87 mm Steel - Ring Behind propeller
* 15.87 mm Steel - 2 on the left and right sides of the nose
* 7 mm Steel - Fore-cockpit plate
* 7 mm Steel - Cockpit front
* 38 mm Bulletproof Glass - Cockpit front
* 64 mm Bulletproof Glass - Behind Pilot
* 7 mm steel - Cockpit Rear
* 6 mm steel - Behind cooling systems and engine
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 in each wing)

'''Critical components:'''

* Cooling and Engine are in the middle of the plane
* Propeller shaft spans nearly the entire length of the aircraft

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|Hispano 404 (20 mm)|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)|Browning (7.62 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 20 mm Hispano 404 cannon, nose-mounted (60 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (270 rpg = 540 total)
* 4 x 7.62 mm Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (1,000 rpg = 4,000 total)

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

{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)}}

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

* Without load
* 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb (500 lb total)

== Usage in battles ==

Use energy tactics at low altitude and Boom & Zoom to dispatch targets if you are at high altitude. In Domination matches, this plane comes into its environment with dogfight furballs occurring in which the P-400 can intervene. Use the excellent energy retention to your advantage and avoid any type of turn fighting, as even a [[F6F-5|F6F Hellcat]] would be able to out-turn your aircraft.

Never contest a bomber at altitude when the plane is fully stock - it lacks the engine power to compete above 4,000 m, and even as a spaded aircraft, it doesn't perform as well as the [[Spitfire Mk Ia|Spitfires]] and [[Bf 109 E-3|Bf 109s]] at similar battle ratings. If you're ever forced to dogfight, use the rudder and elevator to pull yourself into a sort of climbing spiral, which the P-400 is exceptionally good at thanks to its powerful engine.

The [[Hispano 404 (20 mm)|Hispano cannon]], once on target, will easily take out fighters and most bombers with a short burst, or at the very least, cripple it. However, if there is a good fighter pilot on the enemy team, they will climb to secure high altitude. When you see them in more agile aircraft, your only option is to dive away and begin to strafe the furball down low. Beware that many planes in this battle rating range, including the [[I-16 type 27|cannon-equipped Ishak]], outperform this plane in at least one, if not more categories, but this plane usually has more than one advantage over every plane it will face (i.e. it is faster than the [[Spitfire_Mk_Ia|Spitfire Mk 1a]] and out rolls it).

Use the advantages of this plane - its high speed, great rudder, powerful engine, superior armament, and terrific initial turn at high speeds. However, don't use it in a way that exposes its weaknesses - bad low-speed handling, weak turning, and poor climb rate - in combat, like when you are getting Rope-a-Doped, just flip over with an Immelmann and Turn & Burn.

;CAS

Thanks to the 20 mm canon combined with the 500 lb bomb, this plane can be great for CAS. While attacking ground targets, use "boom and zoom" tactics that allow high energy retention. While giving air support, fly low at high speed. Once you've found an opponent, get some shots on it and/or drop your ordnance. Once the engagement is over, maintain some speed while continuing with a slight climb to position for another attack run on an opponent.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Fast plane up to ~3,000 m (12,000 ft)
* .30 and .50 cal machine guns have separate trigger
* Good pool of machine gun ammunition
* Good stopping power with all weapons active
* Nose-mounted 20 mm cannon (centre line mounted weaponry equals good accuracy)
* Well armoured
* Cockpit has good visibility
* Carries a total of 7 guns with three slightly different trajectories, resulting in a high hit probability with at least one of them
* Hispano cannon is more accurate and reliable than the 37 mm cannon
* Excellent rudder control even at high speeds
* If played very aggressive, you are able to get a lot of kills
* Powerful engine

'''Cons:'''

* Low ammunition count for 20 mm cannon
* Ammo counter represents the total amount of machine gun ammo, not the particular caliber
* Gets pilot-sniped easily due to the bubble canopy design
* Suffers a lot from compression
* Becomes quite unstable at low speeds
* Fuel cells are stretched across the wings, resulting in fairly common fires
* The engine is centrally mounted, taking engine damage while being chased is common
* Terrible turning at high speeds
* Horrible responsiveness & roll rate

== History ==


{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}|expand=true}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}

A single-engine all-metal monoplane fighter with a closed cockpit and retractable tricycle landing gear with a nose leg. The aircraft had an unusual layout, with the engine placed behind the cockpit.

The aircraft was designed by the Bell Aircraft design office under the direction of R. Woods and H. Poyer. The experimental model XP-39 took its maiden flight on 6 April 1938.

The first overseas order came from France in October 1939. The French were in urgent need of rearming their fighter forces, and bought as many fighters as they could from overseas. However, the order was not fulfilled before France's capitulation in the summer of 1940. After the capitulation, all outstanding French orders for military vehicles were redirected to Britain.

The high flight characteristics of the experimental XP-39 also drew attention from the British buying committee in the USA. Seduced by its tricycle undercarriage, powerful armament, high climbing rate and promises of high speeds of up to 640 km/h, the British ordered 675 airplanes, including the 200 from the French order.

The fighters produced for Britain had the designation model 14A and were powered by the 12-cylinder air-cooled Allison V-1710-E4 engine with a maximum output of 1,150 hp.

The model 14A's armament consisted of a 20 mm British-Hispano M1 cannon with 60 shells, two large-calibre synchronized Colt Browning M2 .50 cal machine guns on the fuselage with 200 rounds each and four British 7.7 mm Colt-Browning Mk.II .303 machine guns on the wing surfaces with 350 rounds each.

In the RAF, the model 14A fighters received the designation Airacobra Mk.I. However, when the British received the first Airacobra Mk.Is in the summer of 1941, tests revealed that rather than the high-altitude interceptor they had expected, they had actually received an unexceptional medium-altitude fighter, albeit with a powerful engine. At the same time, the fighter's manoeuvrability and responsiveness received good ratings.

In December 1941, the British Air Ministry decided to remove the Airacobra Mk.I from service. By this time, 164 of the fighters had been sent to Britain.

After Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor, the US requisitioned the fighters which had not yet been shipped to the British or were still in various stages of assembly.

In December 1941, 179 of the aircraft went into service in the USAAF with the designation P-400. They kept their British camouflage and organizational numbering. The majority of these planes served within US territory as training vehicles, but a number of P-400s took part in combat operations in New Guinea and North Africa.
{{Navigation-End}}

=== Joke ===
A joke which may (or may not) have been used by the British in WW2:<ref group="note">Copied from [http://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/291882-schlechte-witze-mit-war-thunder-bezug/?p=5693741#entry5693741 War Thunder Forum "Schlechte Witze mit War Thunder Bezug" - 'Bad jokes with War Thunder related content'], no source was given by the forum user. Topic is named/about "Bad jokes".</ref> 

:''Why is the P-400 called the P-400?''
:''Because it's a P-40 with a Zero on its tail!''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=p-400 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|ux3UJ8qg8Go|'''The Shooting Range #268''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:30 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|Mz0EZAlPJus|'''Sub Request, {{PAGENAME}}. Where's my team?''' - ''Joseph 2000''|a4uM2z2hKRk|'''{{PAGENAME}}- All bite and no bark''' - ''Oxy''|JzG7qFayv-8|'''{{PAGENAME}} - US - 2.7 BR - Realistic Battle Review''' - ''Virus''}}

== 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 ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/86385-bell-p-400/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

=== References ===
<references group="note" />

{{AirManufacturer Bell}}
{{USA fighters}}

MiG-19S (Germany)

2024-04-13T22:58:33Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = German jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = MiG-19 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig-19s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The MiG-19S was a special variant of the [[MiG-19 (Family)|MiG-19]], incorporating an all-moving slab tail and the ''Svod'' long-range navigation receiver. It was armed with three 30 mm NR-30 cannons in comparison to the two found on most other models. The MiG-19S entered production in 1956, and was exported to multiple countries shortly after. One of the countries to receive and use the MiG-19S was Germany, which operated 12 MiG-19S alongside 12 other aircraft of the MiG-19PM variant. The German MiG-19s would serve until 1969, when they were replaced with mid-life models of the [[MiG-21 (Family)|MiG-21]], such as the [[MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany)|MiG-21SPS-K]] and [[MiG-21MF (Germany)|MiG-21MF]]

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (NATO designation: "Farmer-C") was introduced in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]] as the German equivalent to the [[MiG-19PT]] found in the Soviet tech tree. The MiG-19S may seem worse at first, but in the hands of an experienced pilot, it is merely a sidegrade, if not better than its Soviet tree counterpart. Unlike the PT in the Soviet tree, the German MiG-19S lacks any air-to-air missiles or dedicated search and track radar systems. However, due to the absence of such systems, the aircraft is noticeably lighter. The MiG-19S also receives an extra gun, giving it more firepower and ammo to use. All in all, the MiG-19S is a great introduction to supersonic jets, as it has great performance and flight characteristics, allowing players of the German tech tree to learn kinematic missile evasion techniques and higher tier dogfight doctrine, aspects that the [[F-104G (Germany)|F-104G]] on the other side of the tech tree lacks.

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

The MiG-19S 'Farmer' serves as a capable supersonic fighter boasting an incredible thrust-to-weight ratio, a highly competitive top speed, and lethal primary armaments. Thanks to the two afterburning turbojet engines, the MiG-19S is able to accelerate very well at all speeds and can use this thrust to achieve a considerable climb rate matched by nearly no other aircraft at its tier. In exchange for these great engines however, MiG-19S pilots will find their fighter's manoeuvrability moderately worse than their opponents, with the Farmer's rudder being especially poor compared to its contemporaries. Elevator authority is not terrible, but subsonic fighter jets will easily beat out a MiG-19S in a turning engagement.

Thanks to the plane's access to a drogue chute, as well as the relatively strong landing gear, the MiG-19S is capable of pulling of high-speed landings, with a touchdown at over 350 km/h being easily possible. The plane's high thrust-to-weight also allows it to take off quicker than most other jets it will find itself with and against.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 10,000 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
| 1,441 || 1,436 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.4 || 24.7 || 164.7 || 156.8 || rowspan="2" | 515
|-
! Upgraded
| 1,465 || 1,451 || 23.6 || 24.0 || 217.2 || 190.0
|-
|}

==== 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 500 || 450 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 540 || < 650 || < 350 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | 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="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Mikulin RD-9B || 2
| colspan="2" | 5,550 kg || colspan="2" | 292 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 7m fuel || 20m fuel || 25m fuel
|-
| 725 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 6,090 kg || 6,951 kg || 7,350 kg || 8,832 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="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 7m fuel || 20m fuel || 25m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 2,296 kgf || 3,218 kgf
| 1.06 || 0.93 || 0.88 || 0.73
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 2,320 kgf (1,000 km/h) || 3,284 kgf (1,000 km/h)
| 1.08 || 0.94 || 0.89 || 0.74
|-
|}

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


* 64 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot
* 10 mm Steel plate in front of the cockpit
* 16.5 mm Steel plate in the pilot's seat

As is typical of more modern aircraft, the MiG-19S does not take damage well. Though the pilot is well-protected against HE rounds from the front, almost the entirety of the plane's middle and rear fuselage is taken up by the MiG-19S's two engines which are thus incredibly easy to hit. Thanks to the plane's heavy reliance on the power of those engines, any damage to either or both of them causes massive problems to the Farmer. Loss of thrust harms the plane immensely, as the MiG-19's lack of manoeuvrability leaves it with little options against a persistent foe while it has damaged engines. The MiG-19 can also suffer from asymmetric thrust (when one engine is more damaged than another) causing the plane to struggle heavily at low speeds, due to the weak rudder potentially struggling to compensate.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|NR-30 (30 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons, chin-mounted (70 rpg)
* 2 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons, wing-mounted (70 rpg = 140 total)

The MiG-19S's 30 mm NR-30 cannons are highly devastating, rarely dealing anything less than a fatal blow thanks to their high calibre. They also boast a great muzzle velocity, most comparable to the British [[ADEN (30 mm)|30 mm ADEN cannon]], aiding the pilot against high speed targets such as other supersonic jets. Their positions, all close to the nose of the aircraft, further improve the performance of these cannons.

However, the MiG-19S carries a paltry 70 rounds per gun which combines with the high fire rate of 1,000 RPM to punish poor aim and careless trigger discipline heavily, as well as reducing the MiG-19S's ability to engage in prolonged battles, forming one of the MiG-19S's core weaknesses.

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


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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="11%" | 1 !! width="11%" | 2 !! width="11%" | 3 !! width="11%" | 4
| rowspan="4" width="20%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
| 1 || || || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-250sv (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250sv]] bombs
| 1 || || || 1
|-
! [[S-5K]] rockets
| 8 || 8 || 8 || 8
|-
|}

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

* Without load
* 2 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (200 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (500 kg total)
* 32 x S-5K rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

Farmer pilots will need to rely on the power of their engines above all else to come out victorious in battle. Little at top tier can match the raw power of the MiG-19S's dual afterburning engines, which allow the pilot the safety to deal with slower aircraft at his or her own pace, as the defender slowly loses their energy.

Though the MiG-19S's top speed is lower than some of its contemporaries, such as the [[F-4C Phantom II]] or [[J-7II]], the Farmer instead boasts an immense thrust-to-weight ratio when the afterburner is active, allowing pilots to engage in energy-burning manoeuvres with faster opponents, who will struggle to keep up with the acceleration of the MiG-19 when recovering speed afterwards. A smart Farmer pilot will abuse this to turn seemingly untouchable faster opponents into easy prey. A reliable tactic when an enemy is on your tail is entering an upward spiral. The MiG's monstrous Thrust-to-Weight Ratio and turn rate will leave most opponents in the dust, forcing the enemy to either disengage or bleed away energy in a futile attempt to keep up. Pilots must keep in mind that some opponents like the [[Mirage IIIC]], [[J35D]], and to a lesser extent [[MiG-21F-13|MiG-21]] can simply turn inside the MiG-19S and shoot you full of holes, so this strategy should be applied with discretion.

Due to the MiG-19S's very low ammunition count, it is important for pilots to consider their shots carefully. The MiG-19S has an amazing climb rate and energy retention, even with high fuel loads, so it may often be better to save ammo, hitting the afterburner to climb away and attempt another attack run later. The Farmer excels in the late game when enemies have run out of missile armament and energy, so players should be mindful to keep an ammo reserve to capitalize on this period.

Though the MiG-19S's selection of secondary armaments is limited, it can nonetheless use those armaments alongside the high top speed to perform hit and run attacks on valuable targets, such as Anti-Air in Combined Battles.

===Radars===

The MiG-19S is equipped with a SRD-1 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="4" | SRD-1 - Rangefinding radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Tracking Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum Tracking Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
|-
| 2,000 m || 150 m || ±9° || ±9°
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Three powerful, high velocity 30 mm cannons
* Unparalleled thrust-to-weight ratio, providing excellent acceleration and climb rate
* Amongst the fastest of all aircraft at its BR
* Notably short takeoff run for a high-tier jet
* Access to a drogue chute for high-speed landings (deploys automatically below 300 km/h)
* Can perform combat manoeuvres which even modern fly-by-wire aircraft struggle with
* Faster than it's Russian counterpart

'''Cons:'''

* No access to air-to-air missiles
* Poor ammunition count for primary armament
* No combat flaps setting, only takeoff and landing settings
* Compresses at high speed (1,000-1,200 km/h) without "New boosters" modification
* Incredibly underwhelming rudder performance at all speeds
* Highly susceptible to critical engine damage
* Unlike the PT variant, there is no radar available

== History ==

The MiG-19 'Farmer' was the Soviet Union's first supersonic fighter jet to enter production, a successor to the MiG-17 which was developed itself from the MiG-15. The first MiG-19 entered service with the VSS in the mid-'50s. The MiG-19S is a later production variant of the Farmer, a day fighter with two RD-9B afterburning turbojets, outputting a hair over 7100lbs of thrust each when wet.

Compared to earlier variants of the MiG-19, the 'S' variant was equipped with provisions for rocket packs as well as bombs, giving it limited multi-role capability, though it did not have the radar of the MiG-19P, nor access to air-to-air missiles as with the MiG-19PT. For flight characteristics, the MiG-19S came out around 170kg lighter than the earlier MiG-19 variants and had a slightly redesigned airframe for improved aerodynamics.

On 10 March 1964, a USAF photo-reconnaissance aircraft RB-66 Destroyer was on a mission to observe a military exercise at the Gardelegen training range when it crossed over East German airspace. A pair of Russian MiG-19S Farmer-C fighters from the 24th Air Army base in East Germany were scrambled to intercept the photo-reconnaissance aircraft. Attempts to redirect the RB-66 failed even with warning shots fired from the MiG-19S fighters. Finally, Captain Vitaliy Ivannikov was given the order to shoot down the American aircraft which he successfully did. The three American crew members were captured and held for interrogation for four weeks before they were released.<ref name="Key" />

The MiG-19 did not see much combat under the Soviet flag. However, the MiG-19S, or rather a Chinese license-built MiG-19S called the Shenyang J-6, saw combat over Vietnam during the Vietnam War, flying in 1969 with the North Vietnamese Vietnam People's Air Force against USAF F-4 Phantom IIs. The Farmer scored a total of 7 victories against Phantoms over Vietnam.<ref name="Toperczer" />

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig-19s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 001.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 002.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 003.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 004.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 005.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 006.jpg
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|t3xD7JpnHeI|'''Best aircraft for Boom & Zoom''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:51 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|GGDkBNydVs4|'''The BEST of the REST! MiG-19S''' - ''Jengar''|ElwYSvbrPvU|'''MiG-19S - The T2Killer''' - ''WhooptieDo''|iL4nYf3M_nc|'''Mig-19 - Nope, Nothing Wrong Here''' - ''WhooptieDo''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-19PT]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-17]]
* Shenyang [[J-6A|J6]]

;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Dassault [[Super Mystere B2|Super Mystère]]
* North American [[F-100D|F-100]] Super Sabre
* Mitsubishi [[Mitsubishi T-2|T-2]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6047-development-mig-19s-magnificent-performance-en|[Development] MiG-19S: Magnificent Performance]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/445743-mikoyan-gurevich-mig-19s/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

=== References ===
<references>
<ref name="Toperczer">Toperczer, I. (2001). ''MIG-17 and MIG-19 units of the Vietnam War'' (''Osprey Combat Aircraft #25''). Oxford: Osprey. ISBN 1841761621</ref>
<ref name="Key">Bridgewater, S., & Gibbs, R. (Eds.). (2019). ''MIG 29 - Red Star Fighters; MiG-1 to MiG-35 & Beyond''. Stamford, UK: KEY Publishing. ISBN 9781912205127</ref>
</references>

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}

P-39N-0

2024-04-13T19:33:40Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = P-39 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=p-39n
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_p-39n.jpg
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

The primary purpose of a P-39 is that of a low-level interceptor. It lacks the high-altitude performance required to engage strategic bombers or high-flying fighters, but is extremely competitive under 4,000 m and easily one of the best planes at its BR.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 3,048 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
| 613 || 593 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 18.9 || 19.9 || 10.5 || 10.5 || rowspan="2" | 280
|-
! Upgraded
| 680 || 641 || 17.8 || 18.0 || 21.2 || 14.9
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 886 || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 426 || 396 || 241 || ~13 || ~9
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 360 || < 380 || < 450 || > 312
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 2,800 m || 1,125 hp || 1,446 hp
|-
|}

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


* 15.87 mm Steel - Propeller hub
* 15.87 mm Steel - Plate in front of the cockpit
* 7 mm Steel - Plate over instrument cluster
* 6 mm Steel - Upper pilot's seat and headrest encasement
* 6 mm Steel - Rear tail
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Windscreen
* 64 mm Bulletproof glass - Headrest of pilot's seat

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M4 (37 mm)|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)|Browning (7.62 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 37 mm M4 cannon, nose-mounted (30 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
* 4 x 7.62 mm Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (300 rpg = 1,200 total)

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

{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|M8}}

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

* Without load
* 6 x M8 rockets
* 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb (500 lb total)

== Usage in battles ==

The P-39N-0 can best be described as a "Jack-of-all-Trades, Master-of-None" when it comes to flight performance. This is because the aircraft has middling performance depending on which aircraft you face at that battle rating or above, however, the P-39N-0 is a very potent aircraft in downtiers.

'''Stock Grind'''

The P-39 has a relatively easy stock grind as it's easy to fly and doesn't require "ace" skills to master it. You should prioritize performance modifications first, as you have enough firepower and ammo, so shooting down planes shouldn't be an issue. M8 rockets are useless; only equip them if you have no other CAS options. They can be effective at destroying bombers in a diving attack though, albeit the 37 mm should be enough.

'''Tactics: Air Realistic'''

For usage in Air Realistic Battles, the P-39 does its best as a multirole fighter in terms of how you engage. for instance, if you're fighting enemies such as Bf 109Es, Fw 109As, La-5s or the occasional Typhoon Mk.1, use your superior energy retention to trap them into an easy target. However, if it is a manoeuvrable enemy such as the Spitfire Mk.IIb or A6M2, it is best to extend out and make repeated Boom-and-Zoom passes on them. Also, ''do not'' take out the M8 rockets, they are terrible for taking out AI targets and needlessly weigh your plane down. Prioritize attacking the enemy with the .50 cal machine Guns over the 37 mm, as while the 37 mm carries insane destructive potential with each hit, it is artificially inaccurate.

'''Tactics: Ground Realistic'''

You are only able to carry a very limited amount of ordnance. You can attack a tank with the 500 lbs bomb or get rid of light armoured vehicles with the rockets and strafe targets so the friendlies can see them. After the ordnance is expended, your role should be air superiority. Deal with other fighters challenging your dominance and try to deal with bombers. Always try to keep the element of surprise on your side. However, overall, the A-36 is preferable over the P-39 in mixed battles for ground attack.

'''Enemies worth noting'''

* '''Germany''' - You will commonly see Bf 109 E and F models, as well as Fw 190 A models. While E models are not as serious of a threat, the Bf 109 F models are a real threat with their more powerful engines. Wait until they dive or you are at a higher energy state to engage them. As for Fw 190s, their engines are rather underwhelming so doing vertical turns will easily stall them out. In an uptier however, Bf 109 F-4s will be dangerous. However, a dive could allow you to temporarily put space between you and your foe, allowing you to counterattack.
* '''Japan''' - You will see A6M2s most often in the P-39. While they possess great manoeuvrability and firepower, they are very slow planes and the P-39 will easily outrun them as well as outclimb them. Other Japanese aircraft to take note of in the P-39N-0 fall into two categories: Fast energy fighters (Ki-61s and Ki-100s) and slow turn fighters (Ki-43 II/III, A6M3, and A6M3 mod. 22). The Ki-100s, while rarely played, are the most dangerous of these that the P-39N can potentially face, as they match the Airacobra in almost all performance metrics
* '''Great Britain''' - Spitfires are very hard to deal with if inexperienced. Your best option is to bait them into vertical turns, where they will easily stall out, making them easy prey. Make sure not to stall out in front of their guns, and plan your ascent with that in mind. Early Typhoons are not much of a threat and can be dealt with easily.
* '''Soviet Union''' - Your scariest opponents are the Lavochkin aircraft. They turn relatively well and have good energy retention. It is best to fight them only when you have a decisive energy advantage. You will fight early Yak-9s as well, but they have anaemic engine performance above 2 km and poor armament. A dive will always put you above them energy-wise, as Soviet planes generally can't exceed 650 km/h.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Heavy armament & lots of ammo for MGs
* Great dive speed and acceleration
* Accelerates very well
* Good roll rate
* Decent climb rate
* Multiple flap options which deploy/retract quickly
* Great energy retention
* Great stall control
* Very short takeoff run
* Separate weapon controls help save ammo

'''Cons:'''

* This plane is too broken to have a any Cons

== History ==


The P-39 Airacobra was a single-engine fighter used on the Pacific and Eastern fronts. The aircraft was produced from 1940 to May 1944 by Bell Aircraft, and its first flight was on 6 April 1938. This aircraft was great in low-altitude combat, making it useful in naval battles for escorting torpedo bombers. The original idea for the Airacobra was a defensive interceptor that would protect American shores from the Axis powers. Destroying low-flying torpedoes and normal bombers was not a challenge for this aircraft as it could easily rip the wings and tail. The plane was originally sent to Britain but with technological developments, aircraft became more powerful and engagements were happening higher and higher in the atmosphere, so it was later sent back to the United States. The US then gave the P-39 Airacobra to the Australians, where it was used to patrol the northern shores of Australia. The aircraft was later fitted with bombs and more cannons, forcing it into a ground attack role, meaning it could now penetrate some tanks of the 1939-1942 era. Today, the P-39 Airacobra can be found in the National Museum of the US Air Force and numerous other museums around the world.

{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
Bell's P-39 Airacobra was a WWII-era American fighter that was notable for its uncommon design: the engine was placed behind the cockpit, and the landing gear moved from the tail to the nose. The aircraft was adopted by five countries: USA, Britain, the Soviet Union, Portugal, and Australia.

The P-39N was the first variant to be mass produced, with the P-39N-0 getting a new V-1710-85(E19) engine and a 3-blade Aeroproducts propeller with a 3.15-meter diameter. Starting from aircraft #167, some fuel tanks were removed from the wings to reduce weight, and a connection for additional fuel tanks was installed under the hull. To further increase flight performance, Soviet engineers often removed the wing-mounted machine guns, leaving two nose machine guns and a cannon.

In this variant, Bell produced 2,095 aircraft. Most of these were sent to the Soviet Union on the US's Lend-Lease program. In November 1942, the USSR received the first Airacobras, and the fighters showed good results in battle manoeuvres at low and moderate altitudes. Many famous Soviet aces — such as Pokrishkin Alexander Ivanovich, Rechkalov Gregory Andreevich, Gulaev Dmitry Nikolaevich, and Kutakhov Pavel Stepanovich — piloted the Airacobras during WWII.
{{Navigation-End}}

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=p-39n Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


* [[P-63 (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/314746-bell-p-39n-0/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Bell}}
{{USA fighters}}

YP-38

2024-04-13T19:30:36Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American twin-engine fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = P-38 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=yp-38
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==


The YP-38 was developed after the loss of the only XP-38. It was intended to be a pre-production aircraft fitted with armament; two 7.62 mm machine guns, two 12.7 mm machine guns, and one 37 mm cannon. All were to be mounted in the nose however some YP-38s never received their weaponry. The YP-38 managed to shave off over 14,000 lbs (6,350 kg) from the original XP-38. In addition, the YP-38 also had its propellor direction reversed (outward rather than inwards) which greatly improved stability when firing the guns. In late 1940, the first YP-38s were completed and were later sent to the U.S. Army. Although it was redesigned and significantly lost weight, the YP-38 had major issues with high-speed dives. During a test flight, a YP-38 broke up during a high-speed dive and subsequently killed the pilot. It would take Lockheed two years to find out the true source of the issue during wind tunnel testing.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced in [[Update "Raining Fire"]] and replaced the [[XP-38G]]. The YP-38 was later removed from the store in the [[wt:en/news/8336-shop-summer-sale-in-the-gaijin-store-en|2023 Summer sale]]. Although with a troubled history, the YP-38 is a decent aircraft in-game. Firstly, all of the guns are mounted in the nose which greatly helps with accuracy. However, the guns are quite limited on ammo, so using them sparingly is important. The YP-38 can also climb well and is decently controllable at around 500 km/h (312 mph). Unfortunately, just like in real life, the YP-38 in-game suffers from high-speed manoeuvrability and can easily overspeed. The YP-38 is also limited in ground striking as it lacks any bombs/rockets and sufficient ammo for its guns.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 7,012 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
| 613 || 596 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.0 || 24.9 || 10.7 || 10.7 || rowspan="2" | 380
|-
! Upgraded
| 659 || 635 || 22.0 || 23.0 || 16.7 || 13.5
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 566 || 495 || 250 || ~10 || ~6
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 380 || < 460 || < 500 || > 420
|-
|}

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


The pilot has moderate armour protection, but other modules are vulnerable; the critical modules have no armour protection, as the armour is focused solely on the pilot. Because the two engines are on either side of the pilot they could absorb several bullets for the pilot if the enemy comes from the side.

* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Windshield
* 9.5 mm Steel - Behind pilot's head
* 6.5 mm Steel - Pilot's seat
* 6.5 mm Steel - In front of pilot
* Self-sealing fuel tanks

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M4 (37 mm)|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)|Browning (7.62 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 37 mm M4 cannon, nose-mounted (15 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
* 2 x 7.62 mm Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (500 rpg = 1,000 total)

== Usage in battles ==

The YP-38 climbs just as well as a [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]], and can make use of a 20 degree sustained climb. However, it cannot turn fight and has quite bad yaw (most likely due to it being twin-engine and having small rudders). Overall, it has bad manoeuvrability, but good acceleration due to having two engines. Make use of the flaps accordingly and you will get better or at least decent mobility in below 190 km/h speed. Due to your good climb rate and slow agility, your best tactic is to hunt bombers. Usually, at this BR, bombers do not climb high or try to speed bomb, bringing them to a low final altitude. You can use your .50 cals and 7.62 mm MGs to shoot out their engines, but it is better to take careful aim and use the 37 mm as its HE shell is quite potent. Depending on armour, it can take 1 to 2, even 3 hits to rip a wing or the fuselage using the HE only belt. These shells have quite slow muzzle velocity compared to MGs but it is worth the time in practising to aim them well as it takes out fighters and twin-engine interceptors like the [[Bf 110 (Family)|Bf 110s]] or [[Me 410 (Family)|Me 410s]] with a single shot. Against other fighters, it is recommended to fly a Boom and Zoom tactic to any engagement you see fit.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good climb rate
* Equipped with a 37 mm cannon
* low tier P-38
* The 37 mm HE shell can take out heavy targets with one shot

'''Cons:'''

* Not very maneuverable
* The 37 mm cannon has poor ballistics

== History ==

After the loss of the XP-38 in 1939, the program still showed great potential and, on April 27, 1939 a Limited Procurement Order was placed for thirteen test aircraft. Given serials 39-689-701, the aircraft were designated model 122-62-02 and had many similarities to the final P-38G. Redesigned with Allison V-1710-27/29 (F2R and F2L) boasting 1,150 HP and also equipped with B-2 Turbo-Superchargers they featured Spur Reduction Gearing as opposed to the former Epicylical Gearing found on the XP-38. This caused the engines thrust line to be raised upwards, as well the propellers were ,Outward-Rotating rather than Inward-Rotating. (The port propeller rotated Counter-Clockwise when seen from the rear, and the starboard Clockwise). This gave much stability when firing the guns and allowed the aircraft to be a much more effective combat aircraft.

The aircraft's chin-mounted intake under the propeller spinner was also replaced by a pair of cooling intakes, as well as enlarged radiators on both sides of the tail booms. The armament was also revised, substituting two 0.30 in. machine guns with two of the four 0.50in. machine guns, and the 37 mm Browning M9 was exchanged for a 20 mm cannon. With all of the guns mounted in the nose, with the 0.50in. guns mounted above the 0.30in., some YP-38s were observed to have permanent gun enclosure tubes protecting the two 0.50in guns, with flush plates to cover the remaining gun ports. In reality, most of the YP-38s flew unarmed, and due to the structural redesigning, the aircraft was lighter than the XP-38 at 14,348 lbs.

On September 16, 1940 the first YP-38 took off with Marshall Headle at the controls, and in March 1940 the Army received it's first YP-38 for trials. With production severely lagging behind, all YP-38 aircraft weren't completed until June of 1941. The aircraft had a maximum speed of 405 mph, at 10,000 ft, and an altitude of 20,000 ft could be achieved in just six minuted from takeoff. With this, the aircraft was exceptional, but had a flaw not seen until it was too late.

The aircraft encountered problems in which, during trials, tail buffet was severe in High Speed Dives. This all came to a head on November 4th, 1941, when Lockheed test pilot Ralph B. Virden took off with the intent to put aircraft 39-689 into High Speed Dive tests. During a dive, the aircraft lost it's tail booms and impacted into the kitchen of a house in Glendale, California, killing Ralph and destroying the aircraft. The accident was initially falsely diagnosed as Elevator Flutter but was soon later solved by the addition of large Wing-Root Fillets at the points where the wings joined the fuselage. The new repair had to be done very specific and precise, as failure of a tight fit would severely impact flight characteristics.

=== Ralph B. Virden ===
Born 11, June 1898 in Audobon Township, IL, he was the second child of Hiram R. Virden, a farmer, and Nancy Carrie Ivy Virden. He attended Bradley Polytechnic Institute in Peoria, IL and, on 15, October 1918 at the age of 17, enlisted in the US. Army. With the end of WWI less than a month later, he was quickly discharged, and in 1919 he married Florence L McCullers. Having two children, Kathryn and Ralph Jr., Kathryn unfortunately having passed at the age of 10 in 1930.

In the mid-1920s, Virden flew as a contract mail pilot, holding pilot No. 628, and was employed by Gilmore Aviation and Pacific Air Transport, and for 13 years flew also as a pilot for United Air Lines. In 1939, having racked up over 15,000 flight hours, he was employed by the Lockheed Corporation as a test pilot. Now living in North Hollywood with his son, Ralph Jr., who was also employed at Lockheed, he would unfortunately lose his life in an accident on 4, November 1939 when the tail booms of his Lockheed YP-38 test aircraft, 39-689, separated from the aircraft during a high speed dive test over Glendale, California. Ralph Jr, after the death of his father, would go on to join the United States Navy in WWII.

=== Crash of 39-689 ===
On November, 4 1941, during a flight over Glendale, California, Lockheed Test Pilot Ralph B. Virden pushed the nose of aircraft 39-689 down to conduct a High Speed Dive test. While in the dive, the aircraft approached what today is known as Critical Mach Number, resulting is air-flow over the wings to reach Transonic speeds and forming shockwaves that interrupted lift causing a portion of the wing to stall. During the dive, the speed reached too great and, in turn, caused the tail booms to separate. Thereafter, the aircraft impacted the house of Glendale resident Jack Jensen at 1147 Elm Street, killing Ralph and igniting a fire. The tail was eventually located several blocks away.

Following the accident, Lockheed, the U.S. Air Corps, and the National Advisory Committee on Aeronautics (NACA) undertook an extensive testing program for the P-38.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=yp-38 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|cCT7uPFabJ0|'''War Thunder - YP-38 "The 37mm Lighting!"''' - ''Bo Time Gaming''|w-wm2xukzOI|'''YP-38 Lightning Review''' - ''Jaguara333''}}

== 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 ==


* [https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/news/features/history/p-38.html [Lockheed Martin<nowiki>]</nowiki> The P-38: When Lightning Strikes] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20210420152142/https://www.lockheedmartin.com/en-us/news/features/history/p-38.html Web Archive])

=== References ===

* [https://www.456fis.org/P-38_HISTORY.htm A Brief History of the P-38 "Lightning"] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20210420152225/https://www.456fis.org/P-38_HISTORY.htm Web Archive])
* [https://www.thisdayinaviation.com/tag/lockheed-yp-38-lightning/ This Day in Aviation - Lockheed YP-38 Lightning Archives] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20210420152236/https://www.thisdayinaviation.com/tag/lockheed-yp-38-lightning/ Web Archive])
* [https://archive.org/details/PilotTrainingManualP38/page/n1/mode/2up/ AAF Manual 51-127-1 - Pilot Training Manual for the Lightning P-38]

{{AirManufacturer Lockheed}}
{{USA twin-engine fighters}}
{{USA premium aircraft}}

SB2U-3

2024-04-13T19:24:01Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
|about = American dive bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|other
|usage-1 = the other version
|link-1 = SB2U-2
|usage-2 = other uses
|link-2 = SB2 (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=sb2u-3
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_sb2u-3.jpg
}}

== Description ==
The SB2U was developed in the early 1930s and although considered obsolete at the outbreak of World War II, it still remained in service through the Battle of Midway, however in 1943 it was withdrawn into training units and replaced by more advanced aircraft. This aircraft featured a constant-speed propeller which was intended to be utilized as a dive brake while performing dive bombing attack manoeuvres. There were three hard points for bombs to be attached, one 250 lb bomb under each wing and a single 500 or 1,000 lb bomb mounted onto a pylon under the fuselage. The larger bomb was also attached to what was called a "trapeze", a device which would when the bomb was released, swing the bomb clear of the propeller arc.

It was introduced in [[Update 1.75 "La Résistance"]]. The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is the predecessor of the [[SB2U-2]], but it sits at a higher BR thanks to the armament. It is slightly slower, because of the engine, it uses the Pratt & Whitney R-1535-2, that has less HP than the SB2U-2, but the difference very little. It has access to the same payload, which means that it is excellent at dealing with heavily armoured naval targets and ground targets. The offensive armament is much better, with 4 x 12.7mm browning HMGs, while the SB2U-2 has access to only 2 x 7.7mm MGs. This means, that while the flight performance is mediocre, it can be used to some extent in air battles, since biplanes and early monoplanes are very vulnerable to this kind of machineguns, specially if incendiary bullets are used.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 4,084 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
| 338 || 329 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.6 || 24.5 || 3.7 || 4.5 || rowspan="2" | 300
|-
! Upgraded
| 383 || 360 || 20.4 || 22.0 || 9.7 || 6.2
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || 700 || ~14 || ~8
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 300 || < 350 || < 320 || > 299
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 2,895 m || 750 hp || 825 hp
|-
|}

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


* 3 mm Steel boxes behind the gunner
* No armour glazing
* Critical components located at front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls)
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 behind pilot)

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

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

* 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (400 rpg = 1,600 total)

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

{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)}}
{{main|Type A Mark I mine}}

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

* 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb + 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (700 lb total)
* 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb + 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb (1,000 lb total)
* 1 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bomb (1,600 lb total)
* 1 x Type A Mark I mine

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, dorsal turret (315 rpg)

== Usage in battles ==

The SB2U-3 is a carrier based dive bomber. This aircraft is a fairly slow aircraft, but sturdy. Built as a dive-bomber, it excels at diving down above a target to release its bombs. The SB2U is one of the only early aircraft in War Thunder which features dive flaps (h) to aid in retarding the build up of speed during a dive, helping prevent ripping off of wings in RB and SB. Wing mounted machine guns allow for this aircraft to strafe softer ground or water targets while waiting for bombs to reload (AB). Rear facing dorsal gunner helps to ward off enemy attackers, however it is not a game changer for this aircraft.

The SB2U is a slow aircraft which leads it to having two options, first is to hug the terrain. While flying to your target of choice (AAA sites, AA Vehicles or bases), fly along the terrain, utilize what hills and valleys there are to fly through. Time on target may be limited before the enemy gets there so line up your bombing run and drop bombs. This aircraft can manoeuvre fairly well, utilizing elevator and rudder controls, you can quickly flip this aircraft around and return to ground attacking targets you just flew over.

The second option will be to gain altitude. Going too high will render your bombs ineffective. The idea here is to gain several thousand feet, fly towards your target of choice and then dive on it. During your dive, your aircraft will build up speed, to prevent too much speed build up and control stiffening, reduce your throttle and engage landing flaps ("F" by default) as the SB2U does not have airbrakes. This will allow you a controlled descent and the ability to line up your target easier, the unfortunate down side is that now you are slowly moving in a straight line, easy target for enemy fighters. Once you swoop on your target and release your bombs, engage full throttle and retract dive brakes.

While this aircraft is slow, it can be utilized to attack fighters if in a pinch. The manoeuvrability of this aircraft along with its slow speed can aid in forcing an attacking enemy to overshoot or underestimate the capabilities of this aircraft.

The rear-facing dorsal gunner does not deter much, don't rely on him to clear your tail of trailing aircraft. Enemy fighters will assume this aircraft to be an easy target due to its size and slow speed.

The SB2U is a slow aircraft, however it is manoeuvrable. Due to the large surface area of the wings and rudder, it can make quick reversals through wing-overs causing faster fighters to overshoot. The rear-gunner does not pack much of a punch, however coming at this aircraft from the underside will avoid any offensive/defensive weapons allowing for time to line up a shot. Aim for critical areas of the aircraft (engine, pilot, fuel…) as the body of the aircraft can soak up a good amount of damage.

An interesting fighting technique against enemy bombers, if altitude, airspeed and lack of nearby enemy fighters permits, is to engage in a "Turret fighting" mode. Start with a 700m+ altitude advantage and 300km/h and look for isolated medium/heavy bombers. (If the bomber in question has significant forward firepower, such as the British DB-3(Quad 7.7mm MG) or the BV 138 B-1(20mm MG151), this technique is best avoided as these will make short work of your vulnerable tail. Do your homework and find which bombers are vulnerable in the nose) Dive on the bomber at a shallow angle (about 20 degrees will do) and fire with your forward MGs if you can. Bank under the target bomber and match his airspeed and climb angle and switch to gunner view. If you successfully followed the instructions your gunner should have an easy view of the front of the enemy bomber, and with sufficient aim and trigger discipline, you should be able to put enough gunfire into his engines or even pilot snipe him to take him down.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Manoeuvrable
* Dual role dive bomber/attacker
* Good diver
* Armament of four .50 cal machine guns give it good frontal firepower
* If put is a down tier with a experience Pilot is able to rack up a lot of kills

'''Cons:'''

* Large target
* Slow speed
* Weak defensive weapons
* Small payload

== History ==


The mid-1930s was an exciting time of military aircraft development. As is with technological changes, designers, developers and engineers look for ways to eke out as much power, speed or even damage infliction as possible. Aircraft which imbue the best of these qualities are typically the ones which get contracts with the military.

The United States Navy was continuously looking to upgrade its fleet of aircraft and in 1934 sought to receive proposals for a new scout bomber designed for carrier usage. This scout bomber requirement was unique for the time as the request came in two parts, the aircraft manufactures had the choice to submit either a monoplane or biplane option. Six manufactures competed in the proposal, and Vought was the only manufacturer which submitted a prospective aircraft in each category. At the time, monoplanes were still relatively new while biplanes had a known track record. Vought favoured the monoplane design, however, concluded that providing a submission in each category allowed them to be competitive no matter the category the Navy selected. Of the six companies submissions, four of them won contracts with the U.S. Navy and Vought's monoplane XSB2U-1 was one of them.

The SB2U-1 was a conventional low-wing monoplane of the mid-1930s. The fuselage construction consisted of steel tubes which had aluminium panels covering the aircraft from the engine cowling to the rear cockpit where the tail gunner sat. A majority of the rear portion of the fuselage utilised fabric covering. The wings were all metal and could fold up for storage on the aircraft carriers when not in use, accommodating more aircraft. This aircraft was a two-crew aircraft needing only a pilot and tail-gunner who could also operate as a spotter. The aircraft sported a Pratt & Whitney R-1535-2 Twin-Wasp Junior radial engine which worked in conjunction with a two-bladed constant-speed propeller. The intent was to have the propeller work as a dive brake during diving attack runs. However, this proved to be less effective, and pilots tended to lower the landing gear, which provided more drag which they needed. The aircraft utilised a swinging trapeze under the fuselage of the aircraft to sling a bomb during a diving attack to ensure it would clear the propeller arc. Pilots found that the best practice for dropping the 1,000 lb bombs was to dive at a shallower angle to ensure proper speed and clearance when dropping the large bomb. Smaller bombs could be mounted under the wings to allow for an additional 500 lbs.

In 1938, the U.S. Navy submitted an order to add to their growing collection of SB2Us and requested 58 SB2U-2 scout bombers which were a slightly modified version of the SB2U-1. There were no physical differences; however, there were minor changes in the equipment installed on the aircraft.

Later in 1939, the United States Marine Corps placed an order for SB2U-3 aircraft. Their needs were a little different than the Navy's needs, so their aircraft required upgrades. Intended to be a long-range scout bomber, this version of the aircraft was outfitted with integral wing fuel tanks to allow for farther range and had the aircraft's tail increased in size to increase aircraft manoeuvrability when using the rudder. A total of 57 SB2U-3 Vindicators were built, and many saw combat in the Battle of Midway.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=sb2u-3 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|Ze0dEvB77fE|'''Best Combo #3''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 0:38 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== 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 ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/392578-sb2u-v-156/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
{{USA bombers}}

SB2U-2

2024-04-13T19:22:19Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
|about = American dive bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|other
|usage-1 = the other version
|link-1 = SB2U-3
|usage-2 = other uses
|link-2 = SB2 (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=sb2u-2
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_sb2u-2.jpg
}}

== Description ==
The SB2U was developed in the early 1930s and although considered obsolete at the outbreak of World War II, it still remained in service through the Battle of Midway. However, in 1943, it was withdrawn into training units and replaced by more advanced aircraft. This aircraft featured a constant-speed propeller which was intended to be utilized as a dive brake while performing dive-bombing attack manoeuvres. There are three hard points for bombs to be attached, one 250 lb bomb under each wing and a single 500 or 1,000 lb bomb mounted onto a pylon under the fuselage. The larger bomb was also attached to what was called a "trapeze", a device which would when the bomb was released, swing the bomb clear of the propeller arc.

It was introduced in [[Update 1.75 "La Résistance"]]. The SB2U-2 is a carrier-based dive bomber. This aircraft is a fairly slow aircraft, but sturdy. Built as a dive-bomber, it excels at diving down above a target to release its bombs. Unlike many dive bombers in War Thunder, the SB2U does not feature dive brakes, instead, its landing flaps can aid in retarding the build-up of speed during a dive, helping prevent ripping off of wings in RB and SB. Wing mounted machine guns allow for this aircraft to strafe softer ground or water targets while waiting for bombs to reload (AB). Rear-facing dorsal gunner helps to ward off enemy attackers, but it isn't a game-changer for this aircraft. However, thanks to its rather low BR, it will face biplanes frequently which can be dealt with using the the rear 7.7 mm machine gun.

== General info ==
The {{PAGENAME}} is typically an easy target for fighter and attacker aircraft. Due to its mission of bombing ground targets, the flight path is relatively predictable and the defensive turret can only do so much to rid a rear-attacking aircraft. The manoeuvrability and turning radius will make it difficult to get out of sticky situations, however, if you are unchallenged, then this aircraft excels at low-level bombing and dive-bombing attacks and is quite accurate. Most of the critical components are clustered in the front of the aircraft and are extremely vulnerable during head-on attacks.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 4,084 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
| 343 || 327 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.2 || 24.5 || 4.5 || 4.5 || rowspan="2" | 300
|-
! Upgraded
| 383 || 360 || 20.4 || 22.0 || 9.7 || 6.2
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 740  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || - || - || 700 || ~14 || ~8
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 300 || < 350 || < 320 || > 299
|-
|}

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


* 3 mm Steel boxes between the pilot and gunner
* No armour glazing
* Critical components located at front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls)
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 behind pilot)

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|Browning (7.7 mm)}}

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

* 2 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

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

{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)}}
{{main|Type A Mark I mine}}

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

* 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb + 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (700 lb total)
* 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb + 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb (1,000 lb total)
* 1 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bomb (1,600 lb total)
* 1 x Type A Mark I mine

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

{{main|Browning (7.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 1 x 7.7 mm Browning machine gun, dorsal turret (600 rpg)

== Usage in battles ==

The SB2U-2 is a slow aircraft which leads it to have two options. The first that a pilot may choose is to hug the terrain. While flying to your target of choice (AAA sites, AA Vehicles or bases), fly along the terrain, utilizing the hills and valleys there are to fly through. Time on target may be limited before the enemy gets to your location, so drop your bombs and return to friendly cover as soon as possible. This aircraft can manoeuvre fairly well. Utilizing elevator and rudder controls, you can quickly flip this aircraft around and return to ground attacking targets you just flew over.

The second option will be to gain altitude. Going too high will render your bombs ineffective. The idea here is to gain several thousand feet, fly towards your target of choice and then dive on it. During your dive, your aircraft will build up speed, to prevent too much speed build-up and control stiffening, reduce your throttle and engage landing flaps ("F" by default) as the SB2U does not have airbrakes. This will allow you a controlled descent and the ability to line up your target easier, the unfortunate downside is that now you are slowly moving in a straight line, an easy target for enemy fighters. Once you swoop on your target and release your bombs, engage full throttle and retract dive brakes.

While this aircraft is slow, it can be utilized to attack fighters if in a pinch. The manoeuvrability of this aircraft along with its slow speed can aid in forcing an attacking enemy to overshoot or underestimate the capabilities of this aircraft.

The rear-facing dorsal gunner does not deter much, don't rely on him to clear your tail of trailing aircraft. Enemy fighters will assume this aircraft to be an easy target due to its size and slow speed.

The SB2U-2 is a slow aircraft, however, it is manoeuvrable. Due to the large surface area of the wings and rudder, it can make quick reversals through wing-overs, causing faster fighters to overshoot. The rear-gunner does not pack much of a punch, however coming at this aircraft from the underside will avoid any offensive/defensive weapons allowing for time to line up a shot. Aim for critical areas of the aircraft (engine, pilot, fuel…) as the body of the aircraft can soak up a good amount of damage.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Maneuverable
* Dual role dive bomber/attacker
* Good diver
* Decent bomb load options

'''Cons:'''

* Large target
* Slow speed
* Weak defensive armament
* Difficult to dogfight with
* Rather long take off run
* No air breaks s

== History ==


The mid-1930s was an exciting time of military aircraft development. As is with technological changes, designers, developers and engineers looked for ways to eke out as much power, speed or even damage infliction as possible. Aircraft which imbue the best of these qualities are typically the ones which get contracts with the military.

The United States Navy was continuously looking to upgrade its fleet of aircraft and in 1934 sought to receive proposals for a new scout bomber designed for carrier usage. This scout bomber requirement was unique for the time as the request came in two parts, the aircraft manufactures had the choice to submit either a monoplane or biplane option. Six manufactures competed in the proposal, and Vought was the only manufacturer which submitted a prospective aircraft in each category. At the time, monoplanes were still relatively new while biplanes had a known track record. Vought favoured the monoplane design, however, concluded that providing a submission in each category allowed them to be competitive no matter the category the Navy selected. Of the six companies submissions, four of them won contracts with the U.S. Navy and Vought's monoplane XSB2U-1 was one of them.

The SB2U-1 was a conventional low-wing monoplane of the mid-1930s. The fuselage construction consisted of steel tubes which had aluminium panels covering the aircraft from the engine cowling to the rear cockpit where the tail gunner sat. A majority of the rear portion of the fuselage utilised fabric covering. The wings were all metal and could fold up for storage on the aircraft carriers when not in use, accommodating more aircraft. This aircraft was a two-crew aircraft needing only a pilot and tail-gunner who could also operate as a spotter. The aircraft sported a Pratt & Whitney R-1535-2 Twin-Wasp Junior radial engine which worked in conjunction with a two-bladed constant-speed propeller. The intent was to have the propeller work as a dive brake during diving attack runs. However, this proved to be less effective, and pilots tended to lower the landing gear, which provided more drag which they needed. The aircraft utilised a swinging trapeze under the fuselage of the aircraft to sling a bomb during a diving attack to ensure it would clear the propeller arc. Pilots found that the best practice for dropping the 1,000 lb bombs was to dive at a shallower angle to ensure proper speed and clearance when dropping the large bomb. Smaller bombs could be mounted under the wings to allow for an additional 500 lbs.

In 1938, the U.S. Navy submitted an order to add to their growing collection of SB2Us and requested 58 SB2U-2 scout bombers which were a slightly modified version of the SB2U-1. There were no physical differences; however, there were minor changes in the equipment installed on the aircraft.

Shortly after the SB2U-2s began rolling off the assembly line floor they went to work with aircraft groups aboard aircraft carriers which included the Lexington, Ranger and Wasp replacing the ageing Curtiss BFC-2 biplanes. Though quickly themselves becoming outdated, the SB2Us served in the Pacific through the Battle of Midway, however, it was not long before they were pulled from the action and relegated to training units.

The sole surviving SB2U-2 was recovered from the bottom of Lake Michigan in 1990. In June 1943 during a training exercise with the training aircraft carrier Wolverine (IX-64), a pilot attempted a landing even after being waived off. After hitting the deck at a bad angle and after breaking off the tailhook, the scout bomber slid off the deck and sunk to the bottom of the lake; luckily the pilot was rescued. The aircraft has been restored and is now on display at the U.S. National Museum of Naval Aviation at Pensacola, Florida.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=sb2u-2 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 ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/392578-sb2u-v-156/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
{{USA bombers}}

AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)

2024-04-12T01:07:40Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

== Description ==

[[File:AN-Mk 1 1600lb.png|left|thumb|420x420px]]
{{break}}
The '''1,600 lb AN-Mk 1''' is an American armour-piercing bomb.

=== Vehicles equipped with this weapon ===


* {{Specs-Link|f4u-6_au-1}}
* {{Specs-Link|avenger_mk1}}
* {{Specs-Link|btd-1}}
* {{Specs-Link|f6f-3}}
* {{Specs-Link|f6f-5_france}}
* {{Specs-Link|f6f-5n_france}}
* {{Specs-Link|hellcat_fmk1}}
* {{Specs-Link|sb2c_4}}
* {{Specs-Link|tbf-1c}}

== General info ==


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="2" | Bomb characteristics
|-
| '''Mass''' || 721.2 kg (1,590 lbs)
|-
| '''Explosive mass''' || 97.5 kg
|-
| '''Explosive type''' || Explosive D
|-
| '''TNT equivalent''' || 95.55 kg
|-
| '''HE max penetration''' || 78 mm
|-
| '''Armour destruction radius''' || 6 m
|-
| '''Fragment dispersion radius''' || 100 m
|-
|}

=== Effective damage ===
''Describe the type of damage produced by this type of bomb (high explosive, splash damage, etc)''

=== Comparison with analogues ===
''Give a comparative description of bombs that have firepower equal to this weapon.''

== Usage in battles ==
''Describe situations when you would utilise this bomb in-game (vehicle, pillbox, base, etc)''

=== Pros and cons ===
''Summarise and briefly evaluate the weaponry in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark pros and cons as a list.''

'''Pros:'''

Better for killing tanks

Small size for harder detection

*

'''Cons:'''

*

== History ==

The '''AN-Mk 1''' bomb was in United States service during World War II, seeing use sometime prior to 1944. Used between the United States Army and Navy (hence the '''AN''' designation), its purpose is to penetrate the horizontal armour of enemy naval ships and detonate below deck. To permit the bomb to penetrate, the bomb wall is comparatively thick to general-purpose bomb, and results in a smaller explosive cavity.<ref name="WarDptTM91904">War Department 1944, 614-619</ref>
[[File:AN-MK1_Exploded_Diagram.png|x350px|right|thumb|none|A cutaway view diagram of the AN-Mk 1 bomb.]]

The bomb's design is cylindrical with a pointed nose, the tail is tapered and a box-type fin assembly is utilized. The bomb diameter is 14 inches (~35.6 cm) and the length 83.5 inches (~212 cm). The total weight of the bomb is 1,590 lbs, with an internal explosive capacity of 209 lbs of explosive D.<ref name="Gervasi">Gervasi 1984, 246</ref> The bomb used the following components: Mk 1 (or AN-M6A2) arming-wire assembly, Mk 1 arming bracket, Mk 1 Mod 0 auxiliary booster, and the AN-Mk 228 tail fuse with a 0.08 second delay. The bomb comes painted in olive drab, with identifying nomenclature and other data painted on the bomb body <ref name="ChiefOP2216">Chief 1960, 4-6 - 4-9</ref><ref name="USNBD">US Navy 1945, 73</ref>

Three modifications of the AN-Mk 1 regarding the method of attachment of suspension accessories are noted under the following designations:<ref name="WarDptTM91904" />

* ''Mark I'': Has two suspension bands and one hoisting band, with a locating stud on the inside of each band to engage a recess in the bomb body.
* ''Mark I'' (or early lot ''AN-Mk 1''): Has same number of bands, but are connected by shallow grooves machined in the bomb body, with the grooves spaced out for 14-inch racks and 30-inch racks.
* ''AN-Mk 1'': Changed design with bands changed into lugs and bolts intended to attach to blind holes built into the bomb body.

Although different Mod numbers are identified for the AN-Mk 1 (Mod 1, 2, 3), there are no physical or component differences in the bomb design as the Mods only identify the manufacturers.<ref name="ChiefOP2216" />

The bomb was made obsolete sometime prior to 1960.<ref name="ChiefOP2216" />

== Media ==
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''

== 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 article about the variant of the weapon;''
* ''references to approximate analogues by other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==


* [https://bulletpicker.com/bomb_-1600-lb-ap_-an-mk-1.html [Bulletpicke<nowiki>r]</nowiki> US Bomb, 1600 lb AP, AN-Mk 1 Mod 1, 2, 3] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20211126012126/https://bulletpicker.com/bomb_-1600-lb-ap_-an-mk-1.html Archive])

===References===

;Citations:
<references />

;Bibliography:

* Chief of the Bureau of Naval Weapons. 1960. ''NAVWEPS OP 2216 (Volume 1): Aircraft Bombs, Fuzes and Associated Components''. Washington DC: U.S. Government Publishing Office.
* Gervasi, Tom. 1984. ''America's War Machine: The Pursuit of Global Dominance: Arsenal of Democracy III''. New York: Grove Press, Inc.
* US Navy Bomb Disposal. 1945 ''United States Bombs and Fuzes Pyrotechnics''. Washington DC: U.S. Government Publishing Office.
* War Department. 1944. ''TM 9-1904: Ammunition Inspection Guide''. New Jersey: Raritan Arsenal.

{{Bombs}}

[[Category:Suspended armaments]]

He 111 H-3

2024-04-09T17:39:41Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = German bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = He 111 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=he-111h-2
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

The He 111 H-3 will often find itself in light vehicle battles due to its battle rating. The sole purpose of the He 111 H-3 is to destroy as many ground targets as it possibly can to aid in winning the match.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 6,000 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
| 416 || 402 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 34.0 || 34.7 || 3.7 || 3.7 || rowspan="2" | 510
|-
! Upgraded
| 463 || 435 || 32.1 || 33.0 || 9.9 || 6.3
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 480  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 402 || 379 || 260 || ~4 || ~3
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 310 || < 300 || < 270 || > 332
|-
|}

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


* 10 mm Steel plate in the pilot's seat
* 5 mm Steel plate under nose gunner
* 6 mm Steel plate under ventral gunner
* 8 mm Steel plate in front of the dorsal gunner
* 8 mm Steel plates in the fuselage
* 8.5 mm Steel plate angled in the fuselage

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

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

{{main|SC50JA (50 kg)|SC250JA (250 kg)|Flam C 250 incendiary}}

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

* 32 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (1,600 kg total)
* 8 x 250 kg SC250JA bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 8 x Flam C 250 incendiary bombs

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

{{main|MG 15 (7.92 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 1 x 7.92 mm MG 15 machine gun, 2 x nose turret (375 rpg)
* 1 x 7.92 mm MG 15 machine gun, dorsal turret (750 rpg)
* 1 x 7.92 mm MG 15 machine gun, 2 x beam turret (375 rpg)
* 1 x 7.92 mm MG 15 machine gun, 2 x ventral turret (375 rpg front-facing + 750 rpg rear-facing)

== Usage in battles ==

Upon spawning, you should put the plane into a slight climb, so it gains speed and altitude. Head immediately to nearest key ground targets. Ask your teammates to provide escort, the He 111 H-3 is quite durable and can absorb a lot of damage from a pursuing fighter but not several. Next, drop your payload into the targets. Here, it is better to use the 8 x Flam C 250 incendiary bombs, as they can easily take out multiple bases in a single run at this BR.

In battles without bases, it would be wise to immediately head toward and carpet bomb targets after spawning, either until you are dead or have destroyed all key targets in an area. Most of your adversaries won't be equipped with cannons, so if enemy fighters decide to attack you, you can act as a distraction while your teammates eliminate key targets.

In ground strike maps with tanks, equip the 8 x 250 kg bombs and either do high altitude base bombing or go for their tanks, ships or pillboxes. A bombing run with the 8 x 250 kg will be enough to destroy a bombing point, and a single direct hit from a 250 kg bomb will surely destroy any ground targets like pillboxes and heavy tanks. Lead the targets before dropping your bombs; it's not easy but becomes easier with practice. If you're not used to bombing moving targets, hit static ones like pillboxes.

You can do the same thing as stated for Arcade mode, which also works well in Realistic/Simulator Battles, or just go for bases with the 8 x 250 kg loadout. 2,000 kg will be enough to destroy a bombing point. Just ensure that you stay alive during your trip back to the base.

In Ground RB, carry the bomb load of 32 x 50 kg load out, as at your BR most enemies will be lightly armoured and only 2 or 3 bombs will be required to take them out. A good strategy when using this plane is to fly over enemy and allied capture points, as this is where most of your targets will be. Use your bombsight to pinpoint targets on the ground, then bombs away! Remember not to spend all your bombs on one target which is what most beginner pilots will do in this plane. Instead, drop around 5 bombs in a straight line near the target(s). Do this until your bomb load is exhausted.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Not controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Auto control available || Controllable Auto control available || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Resilient against small arms fire, which is common at the rank
* Amazing stock bomb load of 32 x 50 kg bombs
* Good roll and turn rate for a bomber
* Decent speed
* Can carry an efficient maximum 2,000 kg of payload
* Defensive armament is decent against biplanes
* All payload options are internal
* Basically a smaller B-17 in armament
* Provides a very good learning curve to the next H-6 and H-16 models

'''Cons:'''

* Defensive armament is inadequate against planes when up-tiered
* Like all He 111 models, it suffers from poor gunner placements
* Cannot dive bomb like the [[Ju 88 A-4]]
* Has a cockpit made almost entirely of glass, which provides almost no protection for the pilot
* Tail controls can be easily damaged
* Cannons with high explosive filler are a threat

== History ==

First appearing in November 1939, the He 111 H3 was intended for level bombing as well as anti-shipping work. The type was supplied to Romania and also license-built in that country. The subsequent H-4 and 5 variants were powered by improved engines and featured increased bomb loads.<ref>Green, William. Warplanes of the Third Reich. New York: Galahad Books, 1990</ref>

{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}|expand=true}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
The Heinkel He 111 was a German monoplane medium bomber (also torpedo bomber and attack bomber). The He 111 H-3 entered production in November 1939 and could also be used in a naval bomber role. However, its defensive armament was not particularly effective, with limited defensive arcs and a very low rate of fire of only 540 rounds per minute.

The He 111 H-3 had a crew of five, but when used in a maritime role, this would usually be increased to six. The bomber was powered by Jumo 211 D-1 engines with a takeoff power of 1,200 HP. Up to 2,000 kg of bombs could be housed in the bomb bay; the left section of the bay could also house extra fuel tanks.
{{Navigation-End}}

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=he-111h-2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Tupolev [[SB 2M (Family)|SB 2M]]
* [[Martin 167-A3]] Maryland
* Mitsubishi [[Ki-21 (Family)|Ki-21]]
* Martin [[B-10B]]
* [[Martin 139WC]]
* Fiat [[BR.20 DR]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/504143-heinkel-he-111h-3/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

=== References ===
<references />

{{AirManufacturer Heinkel}}
{{Germany bombers}}

Ho 229 V3

2024-04-07T18:42:42Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{Specs-Card
|code=go229_v3
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''Horten Ho 229''', also known by its production designation as the '''Gothaer Go 229''', is a jet-powered flying wing aircraft designed by the Horten brothers in Germany during the later stages of World War II. It was originally designed in 1943 in response to the RLM's requirements for a "3×1000" fast bomber; an aircraft capable of carrying up to 1,000 kg of bombs, with a range of 1,000 km, and a speed up to 1,000 km/h. Development of the Ho 229 was later reassigned to the Emergency Fighter Program in 1944, which aimed to produce cheap and simple fighters that could defend the Reich from Allied bombers. To reduce costs, Gothaer simplified the design, most notably redesigning the wings to be made of a mixture of plywood panels glued with charcoal and sawdust mixture and attached it to a steel "fuselage" mid-section. The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was the third prototype of the Ho 229, and was intended to be the testbed for the first production model, capable of carrying two 30 mm cannons and, later on, possibly a 1,000 kg bomb load. The {{Specs|name}} was never completed, as it was captured by US forces in April 1945 at the Gothaer Waggonfabrik factory. The {{Specs|name}} was the only surviving example of the Ho 229, and it is currently on display at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, D.C.

The {{Specs|name}} was introduced in [[Update 1.43]]. It is the first jet in the "Zerstörer" tech tree of the Luftwaffe and currently comes before the [[G.91 R/3]]. Ironically, it goes against much of the doctrine set by the previous planes, favouring speed and manoeuvrability over armament and durability. Something that will immediately stand out with the {{Specs|name}} is how incredibly manoeuvrable it is compared to most other jet fighters. The {{Specs|name}} can almost quite literally turn on a dime and can even in some circumstances out-turn late super props such as the [[P-51H-5-NA|P-51H]] if manoeuvred correctly. However, if its manoeuvrability is used to its full extent, it also causes the plane to bleed speed at a crippling rate, making a sustained turn fight impossible to win. As such, it is advised to use the {{Specs|name}} as a Boom & Zoom fighter in order to maintain airspeed and altitude. Remember that jet engines' efficiency is directly proportional to the IAS, due to the increased air intake, meaning the {{Specs|name}} will be accelerating very slowly between 0-500 km/h, but beyond will be able to outrun any propeller-driven aircraft.

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


The {{PAGENAME}} is a very unique aircraft in many senses. It was designed as a "pure" flying wing design with a notable absence of the tail section and a "fuselage" merged into the wing in one piece, aiming to reduce the drag as much as possible while maximizing the lifting and aerodynamic capability. This results in the Horten having very low wing loading, generating more than enough lift to keep the plane in the air, and having very low stall speed (especially for a jet aircraft) at 165 km/h, giving the Horten the ability to execute the unconventional "cobra" manoeuvres by baiting the opponent into chasing it vertically until they ran out of air speed and stall, then you can swiftly roll down from the ascent to finish them off.

The lack of drag allows the Horten to have very tight turn radius, especially at medium speeds (around 400-600 km), though this is often offset by the excessive lift that hampers the pitch and roll rate at times. The flying wing design also means that the plane can retains the energy very well while flying straight, but bleeds the energy very quickly in an aggressive turn or prolonged horizontal manoeuvres.

While the {{PAGENAME}} shares the common deficiency of early jets of slow initial acceleration, the Horten can gain energy relatively quickly by taking a shallow dive. While the initial gain is relatively slow, the plane will eventually accelerate enough to gain momentum for climbing. The plane's excellent lift will allow it to climb much more efficiently than other early jets with noticeably less energy loss. Though, be sure to avoid prolonged dogfights as the plane still requires a significant amount of time to regain its energy.

A caveat worth noting about the Horten is its tendency to bounce while landing, especially at a speed above 200 km/h, which often results in the plane overshooting the runway. As such, be sure to use the plane's airbrake to bleed the energy when beginning an approach, then keep the throttle on to maintain the airspeed between 160 - 200 km/h and reduce the chance of abrupt stall as you proceed to land on the runway, then apply the brakes when all wheels have touched the ground.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 8,000 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
| 871 || 847 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.8 || 25.4 || 17.0 || 16.1 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 950 || 910 || 23.4 || 24.0 || 25.5 || 21.0
|-
|}

==== 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 980  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 558 || 529 || 380 || ~10 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 570 || < 600 || < 420 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="6" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Junkers Jumo 004D || 2
| colspan="3" | 4,800 kg || colspan="3" | 188 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 17m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 57m fuel
|-
| 750 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
| 5,541 kg || 5,667 kg || 6,088 kg || 6,720 kg || 7,255 kg || 7,500 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="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 17m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 57m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 1,050 kgf || N/A
| 0.38 || 0.37 || 0.34 || 0.31 || 0.29 || 0.28
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 1,050 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.38 || 0.37 || 0.34 || 0.31 || 0.29 || 0.28
|-
|}

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


An obvious flaw of the Ho 229 is the large surface area created by the flying wing design. This means that is it easier for enemies to land a shot on the plane. It can be countered by turning the side of your plane towards the enemy, henceforth decreasing the surface area that can be shot.

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

Given the Horten's weight, the acceleration is an issue on the stock plane. Go for ammunition, engine and compressor upgrades first.

After that, any upgrade is equally good. Weapon upgrades can wait, as the Mk 103 is the best gun in-game, with high accuracy and long bursts stock. The belts also shouldn't be a priority unless using the Ho 229 as an attacker. In that case, the "Armoured targets" belt is very useful against tanks & light pillboxes.

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|MK 103 (30 mm)}}

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

* 2 x 30 mm MK 103 cannons, wing-mounted (170 rpg = 340 total)

====Ammunition====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|IT|Incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}; okay against planes.
* '''Armoured targets:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|IT|Incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}; the armoured target belt is different for the Ho 229 V3, compared to all other Mk 103 armed aircraft, and is only a 1/2 as effective, due to the belt being filled with incendiary shells.
* '''Air targets:''' {{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|IT|Incendiary tracer}}; each Minengeschoß (mine-shell) has the same HE power as a 37 mm round, wonderful against anything that flies and light ground targets.
* '''Stealth:''' {{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}; difficult to use; cannot destroy most tanks nor pillboxes, lacks the destructive force of HE shells against planes.

== Usage in battles ==

[[File:FighterImage_Ho-229Vunknown.jpg|thumbnail|Horten 229 Version 3 with its wings attached by the USAF in 1950.]]
The Horten 229 flying wing is a dogfighter, heavy-fighter, or even an attacker.

Its single wing design allows for amazing manoeuvrability despite its weight of up to 8 tonnes, when equipped with full fuel load. This is, however, the Horten's literal downfall; the weight. Its acceleration is awful, even for jets. But the energy retention is great and climb acceptable. With that in mind rule number one of jet battle comes into play: do not turnfight! The 229 will tempt anyone though. The low wing loading for a jet and even some piston planes allows for tight turning circles. Being heavy also allows to keep that velocity well in the initial turns, but with the inability to regain that speed afterwards... leads to a flaming wreck thanks to an opportunistic enemy. The classic dogfight is thus only for emergency situations!

As a fighter, stick with Boom & Zoom, in which the Ho 229's heavy weight is of assistance in zoom climbs. However, it will also dampen the Horten's starting acceleration in a dive, making out diving an enemy difficult. The bad roll rate makes it hard to get some shots on target, But watch out! Don't pull too hard on the elevator to get that shot, or the Horten will lose much speed (which cannot be regained quickly) or rarely, lose a wing.

The heavy fighter role equals the fighter one in every aspect, just that the targets are usually bombers. Stay fast, and try to get shots off in head-ons, or in slight diving turns from the bomber's six (tail), to make it difficult for the defensive gunners to hit the Ho 229.

The attacker role is a dangerous one. The Ho 229 will have to fly slow, in order to have time to properly aim, hit & evade trees. While all of these aren't difficult in the Horten 229 V3, it leaves the plane in a dangerous spot: low and without speed. Both are vital though for the sluggish plane. In this role, be sure to have good escort fighters, as enemies can come at any time in jet combat.

Once the Horten is fully upgraded, or at least the performance parts are, one detail to notice is that the wings won't rip so easily like before, but the Ho 229 still has to turn cautiously, because it is still a wooden plane after all.

Perhaps the most dangerous enemy of the Horten 229 is the F-84 Thunderjet. Since the Thunderjet gets an air spawn it already has all the energy it needs to get around the map quickly. There are occasions when players spawn in late, only to be strafed by an F-84 Thunderjet on the runway. The Ho 229 is decent at accelerating once up to about 550 km/h, past that point, the Ho 229 becomes a V2 rocket in terms of acceleration until about ~750-800 km/h, then there will be a hard time accelerating again.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Very fast for it's BR
* Excellent 30 mm autocannon with access to a 3/4 minengeschoß tracer belt and good ammo count
* Low wing loading, incredibly good at turning when flown at medium speeds (400-600 km/h)
* Good energy retention if not manoeuvred too harshly
* Outruns piston-engine aircraft and all Allied jets, except when up-tiered
* Very low stall speed of 165 km/h, capable of baiting opponents into stalling and strike back
* Fast when diving if flown at medium to high speeds before committing to a dive
* The air brake can bleed airspeed efficiently
* Excellent cockpit visibility in SB

'''Cons:'''

* Slow rate of fire results in occasional misses when sweeping quickly behind enemies if aiming at wings, which have a thin profile
* Only half of its armoured target belt is comprised of HVAP-T shells, unlike other MK 103 equipped aircraft, which have only HVAP-T shells
* Acceleration is slow, even its initial acceleration in a dive
* Is easy to hit when turning, above, or below because of the size
* Wings can be easily overloaded while turning at high speed
* Flying wing design results into poor roll rate and yaw speed, and causing the plane to loses speed quickly in elevator turns
* Difficult to land due to its tendency to bounce on contact with the runway
* Gets matched against enemy jets that have superior performance

== History ==

In the 1930s, the Horten Brothers were really interested by the concept of "flying wing" for the potential of drag reduction.

In 1943, Marshal Hermann Göring requested a plane that could carry a 1,000 kg bomb load to a range of 1,000 km at a speed of 1,000 km/h. Because jet engines of the time had poor efficiency, the Horten Brothers thought putting them in a flying wing, which had reduced drag, was the solution.

The Horten Brothers proposed their project for a bomber, Ho IX, but the Reichsluftfahrtministerium (RLM) thought the plane would be better as a jet fighter than a long range bomber and requested that two MK 103 cannons were mounted. The result was the prototype Ho 229.

The Ho 229 was the culmination of over 14 years of research and experiment by the Horten brothers for a flying wing design, which aims to maximize the aerodynamic efficiency of an aircraft by reducing as much drag as possible, resulting into an aircraft that has its airframe consist only of a wing without the tail or distinct fuselage. As the brothers lacked their own facility to produce their design, production of the Ho 229 was outsourced to the Gothaer Waggonfabrik company, to which the brothers later alleged that Gothaer underprioritised their project in favour of the company's own design.

The Ho 229 had three prototypes before the facility was overrun.
[[File:FighterImage_Draeger suit from the side.jpeg|thumb|right|Pilot with Draeger suit in Ho 229]]

# '''V1''' was a glider to test the design.
# '''V2''' was a down-scaled prototype fitted with the Jumo 004B.
# '''V3''' was a testbed for serial production, it was however not completely finished when the US Army arrived.

Only one example of a Ho 229 V3 was in final phase of assembly at the end of the war, and sent on to the United States by the Allies.

Originally the V3 was intended to have the Jumo 004C jet engines, these weren't ready though and the Me 262 A's 004B was installed. 
The final production version would have had the ability to load bombs, switch the main armament to four [[MK 108 (30 mm)|MK 108]] and the pilots were to be equipped with the Draeger pressure suit ([[G-Suit]]).

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=go229_v3 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|INb9VjLxKf0|'''Most unusual aircraft''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:54 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|hNfRQMZUMQg|'''The Shooting Range #195''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 04:05 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|80rCNzTtk9w|'''{{PAGENAME}} Gameplay''' - ''PhlyDaily''|1iGO6MPhC_A|'''{{PAGENAME}} - Gameplay and Tips''' - ''WhooptieDo''}}

== 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 ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/189462-horten-ho-229-v3/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Gothaer}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}

F-86K (Germany)

2024-04-07T18:41:13Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
|about = German jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = F-86 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-86k_late_german
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==


The F-86K Sabre (also known as "Sabre Dog" or "Dog Sabre") is a first-generation American interceptor fighter developed by North American in 1953. The first prototype, YF-86K, took to the skies on July 15, 1954. It was produced in the United States and Italy (at the Fiat factories), with 120 and 221 aircraft manufactured, respectively. Widely exported to NATO member countries as an interceptor, the aircraft was originally intended to be designated as the F-95A. However, the conclusion of the Korean War forced the designers to use the already well-established F-86 designation to secure funding from Congress. Nevertheless, only about 25% of the original F-86 components and assemblies remained in the F-86K. The aircraft underwent significant improvements in terms of armament and electronics, and it received a new engine equipped with an afterburner, which greatly enhanced its flight performance. The West German Luftwaffe would acquire 86 F-86K from the Fiat factories.

Introduced in [[Update "Starfighters"]], the aircraft closely resembles the familiar F-86 Sabre, but the strengths of the original Sabre were further enhanced in the F-86K. The aircraft boasts better speed and altitude capabilities with its afterburning engine, powerful forward armament, high roll rate, and good horizontal maneuverability. However, like its predecessors, the "Sabre Dog" has a mediocre vertical maneuverability and wings that are somewhat susceptible to overloads. With only AIM-9B missiles available, the F-86K"s capability of reaching out towards the enemy is rather limited, but can help out in a pinch than just reliant on the aircraft's guns.

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


The F-86K is a decent aircraft at its BR. Unfortunately it rarely fights at its BR. When uptiered, which is most of the time, it is abysmal, being both slower and less manoeuvrable then the opposition. The F-86K has good low-end acceleration due to its afterburner, however, this aircraft is still only a subsonic fighter. Like every other jet, it's bad at manoeuvring at low speeds and its control surfaces compress at high speeds. However, the F-86K can handle top speed relatively well compared to other aircraft of its rank. If the F-86K can do one thing very well, it excels when going into vertical flight, which is only a factor when playing at its BR or lower, which is extremely rare.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 0 m - sea level)
! 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
| 1,103 || 1,097 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 27.4 || 28.3 || 42.7 || 37.1 || rowspan="2" | 1,000
|-
! Upgraded
| 1,121 || 1,111 || 26.6 || 27.0 || 73.1 || 56.0
|-
|}

==== 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 || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 1,187  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 593 || 556 || 370 || ~8 || ~4
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 850 || < 600 || < 660 || N/A
|-
|}

==== 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 J47-GE-17B || 1
| colspan="2" | 6,532 kg || colspan="3" | 286 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 13m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 46m fuel
|-
| 1,150 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 7,034 kg || 7,313 kg || 7,703 kg || 8,338 kg || 9,530 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 || 46m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 2,294 kgf || 3,158 kgf
| 0.45 || 0.43 || 0.41 || 0.38 || 0.33
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 2,294 kgf (0 km/h) || 3,861 kgf (1,200 km/h)
| 0.55 || 0.53 || 0.50 || 0.46 || 0.41
|-
|}

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

The plane is equipped at the front with a 6.35 mm steel plate protecting the pilot's wrist and up. The cockpit's frontal glass is made of 38 mm of bulletproof glass that helps against incoming small calibre rounds. All the while the pilot's seat is made of 12.7 mm of steel which protects his back of any incoming small calibre rounds and shrapnel.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M24A1 (20 mm)}}

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

* 4 x 20 mm M24A1 cannons, nose-mounted (132 rpg = 528 total)

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

{{main|AIM-9B Sidewinder}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles

== Usage in battles ==


The F-86K should only be used as a support fighter, due to its sub-par manoeuvrability and relatively low top speed compared to other aircraft at its BR such as the MiG-17 at low speeds and the fact that it is most often up-tiered, in which case it is greatly outclassed. These flight performance issues mean the F-86K will not do well in 1 vs. 1 dogfight scenarios, except perhaps in downtiers when fighting against planes like the [[MiG-15bis]] and [[F-86A-5]] that the F-86K will be able to out-climb or out-run. However, more often than not the F-86K will be flying against F-105s, AV-8s, F-4s, and the like, to which the F-86K is highly vulnerable to and pose nearly no threat as they can either outrun or out-turn the F-86K, or both. As such it is recommended to work with teammates to help divert the enemy attention while dodging any incoming enemy attacks. With the help of allies, try and get the enemies into a vulnerable state that the F-86K can destroy when the opportunity presents itself.

When it comes to bomber hunting, this aircraft has four M24A1s, one of the few things that makes this aircraft somewhat playable. With this armament, head-on attacks are a viable option. However, do not commit to head-ons, instead fire a burst from maybe .8 km out then pull out. This is to decrease the chances of both planes crashing and increasing the F-86K's chance of surviving. Be advised that early radar-guided missiles can be present and will negate the plane's head-on capability.

=== Radars ===
{{main|AN/APS-21}}
The F-86K is equipped with an [[AN/APS-21]] search radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="4" | [[AN/APS-21]] - Target Detection Radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Detection Range|The maximum possible range at which a target can be detected}}
! {{Annotation|Guaranteed Detection Range|The range, below which, detection of a target is practically guaranteed}}
! {{Annotation|Max Azimuth Scan Angle|How far to each side the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
! {{Annotation|Max Elevation Scan Angle|How far up and down the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
|-
| 45,000 m || 28,000 m || ±85° || ±16°
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good top speed
* Good roll rate at low/medium speed (<800 km/h)
* Good acceleration with afterburner
* Has a search radar (can only spot bombers or large attackers)
* High velocity 20 mm cannons, highly effective in head-ons and deflection shots
* Possesses payload of two air-to-air missiles AIM-9B Sidewinders
* Brake chute

'''Cons:'''

* Subsonic
* Heavy compared to regular Sabres so less nimble, even with leading slats
* Hard compression at high speed (>900 km/h), especially in the roll axis
* Can easily rip wings with strong input
* Afterburner guzzles a lot of fuel
* Missile lock can be broken with a high-G manoeuvre
* Missiles can be unreliable if the enemy knows how to counter them
* No bombs or rockets

== History ==

In March 1949, the North American company launched the development of a new jet interceptor, based on the existing F-86 Sabre, as part of a private venture. The new design was the first interceptor developed to be operated by a single crew member and utilized unguided rockets in combination with a complex fire control system, rather than conventional guns, in order to destroy its target. Already by April, the project had received official endorsement from high-ranking military officials and development of a production version began in parallel.

While a production contract was signed in October, the first prototype, designated YF-95, conducted its maiden flight in December 1949. In the early '50s, Soviet nuclear testing and the subsequent start of the Korean conflict led to an accelerated development of the YF-95. Despite this, problems during development caused production to be delayed, resulting in the aircraft reaching its first units only in March 1951. During the delay however, the designation of the aircraft changed to F-86D and it received its unofficial nickname "Sabre Dog".

In January 1953, North American was approached by an offer from the Italian military to develop a twin-seater version of the F-86D armed with cannons. As the cost and necessary redesign work turned out to be too great, an agreement was made to produce the aircraft in its original design, but with cannon armament and a simplified fire control system instead. This new export version of the Sabre Dog received the new designation of F-86K.

Initially, the F-86K was produced exclusively in the U.S., but would later also be manufactured under licence by the Italian Fiat company. The F-86 entered service in 1955 and apart from the West German's Air Force, the F-86K also served with many other operators worldwide including France, Italy, the Netherlands, Norway, Honduras, Venezuela. Around 340 F-86Ks were produced out of over 2,800 Sabre Dogs built in total. Most of the F-86Ks would be decommissioned by the late '60s, while some even went on to serve into the '70s.

''- From [[wt:en/news/6176-development-f-86k-sabre-dog-the-grand-tourist-en|Devblog]]''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-86k_late_german Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|NuacwZrhw3M|'''The Shooting Range #159''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:35 discusses the F-86K (France).}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* Canadair [[F-86 (Family)|Sabre]] (Sabres manufactured with the designator "CL")
* North American [[F-86 (Family)|F-86A/F]]
* North American [[F-100D|F-100]] Super Sabre
* North American [[FJ-4B|FJ-4]] Fury

;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Grumman [[F9F-8|F9F]] Cougar
* Lavochkin [[La-15]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-15]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-17]]
* Hawker [[Hunter F.1|Hunter]]
* Dassault [[Super Mystere B2|Super Mystère]]
* Saab [[J29D|J29]] Tunnan

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6176-development-f-86k-sabre-dog-the-grand-tourist-en|[Devblog] F-86K Sabre Dog: The Grand Tourist]]
* [http://www.joebaugher.com/usaf_fighters/p86_17.html [joebaugher<nowiki>.com]</nowiki> North American F-86K Sabre]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/453521-f-86k/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer NAA}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}

MiG-19S (Germany)

2024-04-07T18:38:10Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = German jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = MiG-19 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig-19s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The MiG-19S was a special variant of the [[MiG-19 (Family)|MiG-19]], incorporating an all-moving slab tail and the ''Svod'' long-range navigation receiver. It was armed with three 30 mm NR-30 cannons in comparison to the two found on most other models. The MiG-19S entered production in 1956, and was exported to multiple countries shortly after. One of the countries to receive and use the MiG-19S was Germany, which operated 12 MiG-19S alongside 12 other aircraft of the MiG-19PM variant. The German MiG-19s would serve until 1969, when they were replaced with mid-life models of the [[MiG-21 (Family)|MiG-21]], such as the [[MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany)|MiG-21SPS-K]] and [[MiG-21MF (Germany)|MiG-21MF]]

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (NATO designation: "Farmer-C") was introduced in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]] as the German equivalent to the [[MiG-19PT]] found in the Soviet tech tree. The MiG-19S may seem worse at first, but in the hands of an experienced pilot, it is merely a sidegrade, if not better than its Soviet tree counterpart. Unlike the PT in the Soviet tree, the German MiG-19S lacks any air-to-air missiles or dedicated search and track radar systems. However, due to the absence of such systems, the aircraft is noticeably lighter. The MiG-19S also receives an extra gun, giving it more firepower and ammo to use. All in all, the MiG-19S is a great introduction to supersonic jets, as it has great performance and flight characteristics, allowing players of the German tech tree to learn kinematic missile evasion techniques and higher tier dogfight doctrine, aspects that the [[F-104G (Germany)|F-104G]] on the other side of the tech tree lacks.

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

The MiG-19S 'Farmer' serves as a capable supersonic fighter boasting an incredible thrust-to-weight ratio, a highly competitive top speed, and lethal primary armaments. Thanks to the two afterburning turbojet engines, the MiG-19S is able to accelerate very well at all speeds and can use this thrust to achieve a considerable climb rate matched by nearly no other aircraft at its tier. In exchange for these great engines however, MiG-19S pilots will find their fighter's manoeuvrability moderately worse than their opponents, with the Farmer's rudder being especially poor compared to its contemporaries. Elevator authority is not terrible, but subsonic fighter jets will easily beat out a MiG-19S in a turning engagement.

Thanks to the plane's access to a drogue chute, as well as the relatively strong landing gear, the MiG-19S is capable of pulling of high-speed landings, with a touchdown at over 350 km/h being easily possible. The plane's high thrust-to-weight also allows it to take off quicker than most other jets it will find itself with and against.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 10,000 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
| 1,441 || 1,436 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.4 || 24.7 || 164.7 || 156.8 || rowspan="2" | 515
|-
! Upgraded
| 1,465 || 1,451 || 23.6 || 24.0 || 217.2 || 190.0
|-
|}

==== 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 500 || 450 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 540 || < 650 || < 350 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | 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="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Mikulin RD-9B || 2
| colspan="2" | 5,550 kg || colspan="2" | 292 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 7m fuel || 20m fuel || 25m fuel
|-
| 725 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 6,090 kg || 6,951 kg || 7,350 kg || 8,832 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="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 7m fuel || 20m fuel || 25m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 2,296 kgf || 3,218 kgf
| 1.06 || 0.93 || 0.88 || 0.73
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 2,320 kgf (1,000 km/h) || 3,284 kgf (1,000 km/h)
| 1.08 || 0.94 || 0.89 || 0.74
|-
|}

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


* 64 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot
* 10 mm Steel plate in front of the cockpit
* 16.5 mm Steel plate in the pilot's seat

As is typical of more modern aircraft, the MiG-19S does not take damage well. Though the pilot is well-protected against HE rounds from the front, almost the entirety of the plane's middle and rear fuselage is taken up by the MiG-19S's two engines which are thus incredibly easy to hit. Thanks to the plane's heavy reliance on the power of those engines, any damage to either or both of them causes massive problems to the Farmer. Loss of thrust harms the plane immensely, as the MiG-19's lack of manoeuvrability leaves it with little options against a persistent foe while it has damaged engines. The MiG-19 can also suffer from asymmetric thrust (when one engine is more damaged than another) causing the plane to struggle heavily at low speeds, due to the weak rudder potentially struggling to compensate.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|NR-30 (30 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons, chin-mounted (70 rpg)
* 2 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons, wing-mounted (70 rpg = 140 total)

The MiG-19S's 30 mm NR-30 cannons are highly devastating, rarely dealing anything less than a fatal blow thanks to their high calibre. They also boast a great muzzle velocity, most comparable to the British [[ADEN (30 mm)|30 mm ADEN cannon]], aiding the pilot against high speed targets such as other supersonic jets. Their positions, all close to the nose of the aircraft, further improve the performance of these cannons.

However, the MiG-19S carries a paltry 70 rounds per gun which combines with the high fire rate of 1,000 RPM to punish poor aim and careless trigger discipline heavily, as well as reducing the MiG-19S's ability to engage in prolonged battles, forming one of the MiG-19S's core weaknesses.

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


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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="11%" | 1 !! width="11%" | 2 !! width="11%" | 3 !! width="11%" | 4
| rowspan="4" width="20%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
| 1 || || || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-250sv (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250sv]] bombs
| 1 || || || 1
|-
! [[S-5K]] rockets
| 8 || 8 || 8 || 8
|-
|}

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

* Without load
* 2 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (200 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (500 kg total)
* 32 x S-5K rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

Farmer pilots will need to rely on the power of their engines above all else to come out victorious in battle. Little at top tier can match the raw power of the MiG-19S's dual afterburning engines, which allow the pilot the safety to deal with slower aircraft at his or her own pace, as the defender slowly loses their energy.

Though the MiG-19S's top speed is lower than some of its contemporaries, such as the [[F-4C Phantom II]] or [[J-7II]], the Farmer instead boasts an immense thrust-to-weight ratio when the afterburner is active, allowing pilots to engage in energy-burning manoeuvres with faster opponents, who will struggle to keep up with the acceleration of the MiG-19 when recovering speed afterwards. A smart Farmer pilot will abuse this to turn seemingly untouchable faster opponents into easy prey. A reliable tactic when an enemy is on your tail is entering an upward spiral. The MiG's monstrous Thrust-to-Weight Ratio and turn rate will leave most opponents in the dust, forcing the enemy to either disengage or bleed away energy in a futile attempt to keep up. Pilots must keep in mind that some opponents like the [[Mirage IIIC]], [[J35D]], and to a lesser extent [[MiG-21F-13|MiG-21]] can simply turn inside the MiG-19S and shoot you full of holes, so this strategy should be applied with discretion.

Due to the MiG-19S's very low ammunition count, it is important for pilots to consider their shots carefully. The MiG-19S has an amazing climb rate and energy retention, even with high fuel loads, so it may often be better to save ammo, hitting the afterburner to climb away and attempt another attack run later. The Farmer excels in the late game when enemies have run out of missile armament and energy, so players should be mindful to keep an ammo reserve to capitalize on this period.

Though the MiG-19S's selection of secondary armaments is limited, it can nonetheless use those armaments alongside the high top speed to perform hit and run attacks on valuable targets, such as Anti-Air in Combined Battles.

===Radars===

The MiG-19S is equipped with a SRD-1 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="4" | SRD-1 - Rangefinding radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Tracking Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum Tracking Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
|-
| 2,000 m || 150 m || ±9° || ±9°
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Three powerful, high velocity 30 mm cannons
* Unparalleled thrust-to-weight ratio, providing excellent acceleration and climb rate
* Amongst the fastest of all aircraft at its BR
* Notably short takeoff run for a high-tier jet
* Access to a drogue chute for high-speed landings (deploys automatically below 300 km/h)
* One of the fastest jets at it's BR
* If down tiered, you will shred though all airplanes with your speed and guns in RB
* Can perform combat manoeuvres which even modern fly-by-wire aircraft struggle with

'''Cons:'''

* No access to air-to-air missiles
* Poor ammunition count for primary armament
* No combat flaps setting, only takeoff and landing settings
* Compresses at high speed (1,000-1,200 km/h) without "New boosters" modification
* Incredibly underwhelming rudder performance at all speeds
* Highly susceptible to critical engine damage
* Unlike the PT variant, there is no radar available

== History ==

The MiG-19 'Farmer' was the Soviet Union's first supersonic fighter jet to enter production, a successor to the MiG-17 which was developed itself from the MiG-15. The first MiG-19 entered service with the VSS in the mid-'50s. The MiG-19S is a later production variant of the Farmer, a day fighter with two RD-9B afterburning turbojets, outputting a hair over 7100lbs of thrust each when wet.

Compared to earlier variants of the MiG-19, the 'S' variant was equipped with provisions for rocket packs as well as bombs, giving it limited multi-role capability, though it did not have the radar of the MiG-19P, nor access to air-to-air missiles as with the MiG-19PT. For flight characteristics, the MiG-19S came out around 170kg lighter than the earlier MiG-19 variants and had a slightly redesigned airframe for improved aerodynamics.

On 10 March 1964, a USAF photo-reconnaissance aircraft RB-66 Destroyer was on a mission to observe a military exercise at the Gardelegen training range when it crossed over East German airspace. A pair of Russian MiG-19S Farmer-C fighters from the 24th Air Army base in East Germany were scrambled to intercept the photo-reconnaissance aircraft. Attempts to redirect the RB-66 failed even with warning shots fired from the MiG-19S fighters. Finally, Captain Vitaliy Ivannikov was given the order to shoot down the American aircraft which he successfully did. The three American crew members were captured and held for interrogation for four weeks before they were released.<ref name="Key" />

The MiG-19 did not see much combat under the Soviet flag. However, the MiG-19S, or rather a Chinese license-built MiG-19S called the Shenyang J-6, saw combat over Vietnam during the Vietnam War, flying in 1969 with the North Vietnamese Vietnam People's Air Force against USAF F-4 Phantom IIs. The Farmer scored a total of 7 victories against Phantoms over Vietnam.<ref name="Toperczer" />

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig-19s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 001.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 002.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 003.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 004.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 005.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 006.jpg
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|t3xD7JpnHeI|'''Best aircraft for Boom & Zoom''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:51 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|GGDkBNydVs4|'''The BEST of the REST! MiG-19S''' - ''Jengar''|ElwYSvbrPvU|'''MiG-19S - The T2Killer''' - ''WhooptieDo''|iL4nYf3M_nc|'''Mig-19 - Nope, Nothing Wrong Here''' - ''WhooptieDo''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-19PT]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-17]]
* Shenyang [[J-6A|J6]]

;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Dassault [[Super Mystere B2|Super Mystère]]
* North American [[F-100D|F-100]] Super Sabre
* Mitsubishi [[Mitsubishi T-2|T-2]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6047-development-mig-19s-magnificent-performance-en|[Development] MiG-19S: Magnificent Performance]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/445743-mikoyan-gurevich-mig-19s/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

=== References ===
<references>
<ref name="Toperczer">Toperczer, I. (2001). ''MIG-17 and MIG-19 units of the Vietnam War'' (''Osprey Combat Aircraft #25''). Oxford: Osprey. ISBN 1841761621</ref>
<ref name="Key">Bridgewater, S., & Gibbs, R. (Eds.). (2019). ''MIG 29 - Red Star Fighters; MiG-1 to MiG-35 & Beyond''. Stamford, UK: KEY Publishing. ISBN 9781912205127</ref>
</references>

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}

MiG-19S (Germany)

2024-04-07T18:36:36Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = German jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = MiG-19 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig-19s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The MiG-19S was a special variant of the [[MiG-19 (Family)|MiG-19]], incorporating an all-moving slab tail and the ''Svod'' long-range navigation receiver. It was armed with three 30 mm NR-30 cannons in comparison to the two found on most other models. The MiG-19S entered production in 1956, and was exported to multiple countries shortly after. One of the countries to receive and use the MiG-19S was Germany, which operated 12 MiG-19S alongside 12 other aircraft of the MiG-19PM variant. The German MiG-19s would serve until 1969, when they were replaced with mid-life models of the [[MiG-21 (Family)|MiG-21]], such as the [[MiG-21 SPS-K (Germany)|MiG-21SPS-K]] and [[MiG-21MF (Germany)|MiG-21MF]]

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (NATO designation: "Farmer-C") was introduced in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]] as the German equivalent to the [[MiG-19PT]] found in the Soviet tech tree. The MiG-19S may seem worse at first, but in the hands of an experienced pilot, it is merely a sidegrade, if not better than its Soviet tree counterpart. Unlike the PT in the Soviet tree, the German MiG-19S lacks any air-to-air missiles or dedicated search and track radar systems. However, due to the absence of such systems, the aircraft is noticeably lighter. The MiG-19S also receives an extra gun, giving it more firepower and ammo to use. All in all, the MiG-19S is a great introduction to supersonic jets, as it has great performance and flight characteristics, allowing players of the German tech tree to learn kinematic missile evasion techniques and higher tier dogfight doctrine, aspects that the [[F-104G (Germany)|F-104G]] on the other side of the tech tree lacks.

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

The MiG-19S 'Farmer' serves as a capable supersonic fighter boasting an incredible thrust-to-weight ratio, a highly competitive top speed, and lethal primary armaments. Thanks to the two afterburning turbojet engines, the MiG-19S is able to accelerate very well at all speeds and can use this thrust to achieve a considerable climb rate matched by nearly no other aircraft at its tier. In exchange for these great engines however, MiG-19S pilots will find their fighter's manoeuvrability moderately worse than their opponents, with the Farmer's rudder being especially poor compared to its contemporaries. Elevator authority is not terrible, but subsonic fighter jets will easily beat out a MiG-19S in a turning engagement.

Thanks to the plane's access to a drogue chute, as well as the relatively strong landing gear, the MiG-19S is capable of pulling of high-speed landings, with a touchdown at over 350 km/h being easily possible. The plane's high thrust-to-weight also allows it to take off quicker than most other jets it will find itself with and against.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 10,000 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
| 1,441 || 1,436 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.4 || 24.7 || 164.7 || 156.8 || rowspan="2" | 515
|-
! Upgraded
| 1,465 || 1,451 || 23.6 || 24.0 || 217.2 || 190.0
|-
|}

==== 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 500 || 450 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 540 || < 650 || < 350 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | 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="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Mikulin RD-9B || 2
| colspan="2" | 5,550 kg || colspan="2" | 292 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 7m fuel || 20m fuel || 25m fuel
|-
| 725 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 6,090 kg || 6,951 kg || 7,350 kg || 8,832 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="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 7m fuel || 20m fuel || 25m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 2,296 kgf || 3,218 kgf
| 1.06 || 0.93 || 0.88 || 0.73
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 2,320 kgf (1,000 km/h) || 3,284 kgf (1,000 km/h)
| 1.08 || 0.94 || 0.89 || 0.74
|-
|}

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


* 64 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot
* 10 mm Steel plate in front of the cockpit
* 16.5 mm Steel plate in the pilot's seat

As is typical of more modern aircraft, the MiG-19S does not take damage well. Though the pilot is well-protected against HE rounds from the front, almost the entirety of the plane's middle and rear fuselage is taken up by the MiG-19S's two engines which are thus incredibly easy to hit. Thanks to the plane's heavy reliance on the power of those engines, any damage to either or both of them causes massive problems to the Farmer. Loss of thrust harms the plane immensely, as the MiG-19's lack of manoeuvrability leaves it with little options against a persistent foe while it has damaged engines. The MiG-19 can also suffer from asymmetric thrust (when one engine is more damaged than another) causing the plane to struggle heavily at low speeds, due to the weak rudder potentially struggling to compensate.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|NR-30 (30 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons, chin-mounted (70 rpg)
* 2 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons, wing-mounted (70 rpg = 140 total)

The MiG-19S's 30 mm NR-30 cannons are highly devastating, rarely dealing anything less than a fatal blow thanks to their high calibre. They also boast a great muzzle velocity, most comparable to the British [[ADEN (30 mm)|30 mm ADEN cannon]], aiding the pilot against high speed targets such as other supersonic jets. Their positions, all close to the nose of the aircraft, further improve the performance of these cannons.

However, the MiG-19S carries a paltry 70 rounds per gun which combines with the high fire rate of 1,000 RPM to punish poor aim and careless trigger discipline heavily, as well as reducing the MiG-19S's ability to engage in prolonged battles, forming one of the MiG-19S's core weaknesses.

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


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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="11%" | 1 !! width="11%" | 2 !! width="11%" | 3 !! width="11%" | 4
| rowspan="4" width="20%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
| 1 || || || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-250sv (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250sv]] bombs
| 1 || || || 1
|-
! [[S-5K]] rockets
| 8 || 8 || 8 || 8
|-
|}

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

* Without load
* 2 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (200 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (500 kg total)
* 32 x S-5K rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

Farmer pilots will need to rely on the power of their engines above all else to come out victorious in battle. Little at top tier can match the raw power of the MiG-19S's dual afterburning engines, which allow the pilot the safety to deal with slower aircraft at his or her own pace, as the defender slowly loses their energy.

Though the MiG-19S's top speed is lower than some of its contemporaries, such as the [[F-4C Phantom II]] or [[J-7II]], the Farmer instead boasts an immense thrust-to-weight ratio when the afterburner is active, allowing pilots to engage in energy-burning manoeuvres with faster opponents, who will struggle to keep up with the acceleration of the MiG-19 when recovering speed afterwards. A smart Farmer pilot will abuse this to turn seemingly untouchable faster opponents into easy prey. A reliable tactic when an enemy is on your tail is entering an upward spiral. The MiG's monstrous Thrust-to-Weight Ratio and turn rate will leave most opponents in the dust, forcing the enemy to either disengage or bleed away energy in a futile attempt to keep up. Pilots must keep in mind that some opponents like the [[Mirage IIIC]], [[J35D]], and to a lesser extent [[MiG-21F-13|MiG-21]] can simply turn inside the MiG-19S and shoot you full of holes, so this strategy should be applied with discretion.

Due to the MiG-19S's very low ammunition count, it is important for pilots to consider their shots carefully. The MiG-19S has an amazing climb rate and energy retention, even with high fuel loads, so it may often be better to save ammo, hitting the afterburner to climb away and attempt another attack run later. The Farmer excels in the late game when enemies have run out of missile armament and energy, so players should be mindful to keep an ammo reserve to capitalize on this period.

Though the MiG-19S's selection of secondary armaments is limited, it can nonetheless use those armaments alongside the high top speed to perform hit and run attacks on valuable targets, such as Anti-Air in Combined Battles.

===Radars===

The MiG-19S is equipped with a SRD-1 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="4" | SRD-1 - Rangefinding radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Tracking Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum Tracking Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
|-
| 2,000 m || 150 m || ±9° || ±9°
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Three powerful, high velocity 30 mm cannons
* Unparalleled thrust-to-weight ratio, providing excellent acceleration and climb rate
* Amongst the fastest of all aircraft at its BR
* Notably short takeoff run for a high-tier jet
* Access to a drogue chute for high-speed landings (deploys automatically below 300 km/h)
* One of the fastest jets at it's BR
* If down tiered, you will shred though all airplanes with your speed and guns
* Can perform combat manoeuvres which even modern fly-by-wire aircraft struggle with

'''Cons:'''

* No access to air-to-air missiles
* Poor ammunition count for primary armament
* No combat flaps setting, only takeoff and landing settings
* Compresses at high speed (1,000-1,200 km/h) without "New boosters" modification
* Incredibly underwhelming rudder performance at all speeds
* Highly susceptible to critical engine damage
* Unlike the PT variant, there is no radar available

== History ==

The MiG-19 'Farmer' was the Soviet Union's first supersonic fighter jet to enter production, a successor to the MiG-17 which was developed itself from the MiG-15. The first MiG-19 entered service with the VSS in the mid-'50s. The MiG-19S is a later production variant of the Farmer, a day fighter with two RD-9B afterburning turbojets, outputting a hair over 7100lbs of thrust each when wet.

Compared to earlier variants of the MiG-19, the 'S' variant was equipped with provisions for rocket packs as well as bombs, giving it limited multi-role capability, though it did not have the radar of the MiG-19P, nor access to air-to-air missiles as with the MiG-19PT. For flight characteristics, the MiG-19S came out around 170kg lighter than the earlier MiG-19 variants and had a slightly redesigned airframe for improved aerodynamics.

On 10 March 1964, a USAF photo-reconnaissance aircraft RB-66 Destroyer was on a mission to observe a military exercise at the Gardelegen training range when it crossed over East German airspace. A pair of Russian MiG-19S Farmer-C fighters from the 24th Air Army base in East Germany were scrambled to intercept the photo-reconnaissance aircraft. Attempts to redirect the RB-66 failed even with warning shots fired from the MiG-19S fighters. Finally, Captain Vitaliy Ivannikov was given the order to shoot down the American aircraft which he successfully did. The three American crew members were captured and held for interrogation for four weeks before they were released.<ref name="Key" />

The MiG-19 did not see much combat under the Soviet flag. However, the MiG-19S, or rather a Chinese license-built MiG-19S called the Shenyang J-6, saw combat over Vietnam during the Vietnam War, flying in 1969 with the North Vietnamese Vietnam People's Air Force against USAF F-4 Phantom IIs. The Farmer scored a total of 7 victories against Phantoms over Vietnam.<ref name="Toperczer" />

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig-19s Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 001.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 002.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 003.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 004.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 005.jpg
File:MiG-19S WTWallpaper 006.jpg
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|t3xD7JpnHeI|'''Best aircraft for Boom & Zoom''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:51 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|GGDkBNydVs4|'''The BEST of the REST! MiG-19S''' - ''Jengar''|ElwYSvbrPvU|'''MiG-19S - The T2Killer''' - ''WhooptieDo''|iL4nYf3M_nc|'''Mig-19 - Nope, Nothing Wrong Here''' - ''WhooptieDo''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-19PT]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-17]]
* Shenyang [[J-6A|J6]]

;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Dassault [[Super Mystere B2|Super Mystère]]
* North American [[F-100D|F-100]] Super Sabre
* Mitsubishi [[Mitsubishi T-2|T-2]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6047-development-mig-19s-magnificent-performance-en|[Development] MiG-19S: Magnificent Performance]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/445743-mikoyan-gurevich-mig-19s/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

=== References ===
<references>
<ref name="Toperczer">Toperczer, I. (2001). ''MIG-17 and MIG-19 units of the Vietnam War'' (''Osprey Combat Aircraft #25''). Oxford: Osprey. ISBN 1841761621</ref>
<ref name="Key">Bridgewater, S., & Gibbs, R. (Eds.). (2019). ''MIG 29 - Red Star Fighters; MiG-1 to MiG-35 & Beyond''. Stamford, UK: KEY Publishing. ISBN 9781912205127</ref>
</references>

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}

Me 262 A-1a/U1

2024-04-07T16:12:56Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = squadron German strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Me 262 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=me-262a1_u1
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_Me_262_A1a-U1.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a squadron rank {{Specs|rank}} German strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update 1.91 "Night Vision"]]. It can be unlocked with squadron activity points or purchased with Golden Eagles.

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

The Me 262 A-1a/U1 severely lacks engine power compared to its contemporaries and is heavy, resulting in a lacklustre acceleration and a poor climb rate. Control surfaces compress above 650 km/h and G-LOC becomes prominent when slightly manoeuvring above 700 km/h. It also performs poorly in a stall, as the control surfaces become ineffective below 350 km/h, making recoveries difficult.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 6,000 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
| 823 || 797 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 29.3 || 30.1 || 15.7 || 14.7 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 908 || 865 || 27.4 || 28.0 || 23.7 || 19.5
|-
|}

==== 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 || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 558 || 529 || 380 || ~10 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 500 || < 600 || < 680 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="6" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Junkers Jumo 004B-1 || 2
| colspan="3" | 4,550 kg || colspan="3" | 310 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 16m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 53m fuel
|-
| 720 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
| 5,164 kg || 5,311 kg || 5,679 kg || 6,231 kg || 6,525 kg || 6,520 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="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 16m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 53m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 910 kgf || N/A
| 0.35 || 0.34 || 0.32 || 0.29 || 0.28 || 0.28
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 910 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.35 || 0.34 || 0.32 || 0.29 || 0.28 || 0.28
|-
|}

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


* 15 mm Steel - Behind the pilot
* 15 mm Steel - Pilot's headrest
* 15 mm Steel - Between cockpit and fore fuel tank
* 15 mm Steel - Instrument panel plate
* 16 mm Steel x 2 - Ammunition protection plates
* 90 mm Bulletproof glass

The engines are very fragile. Any hit at this BR often results in critical damage

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|MK 103 (30 mm)|MK 108 (30 mm)|MG 151 (20 mm)}}

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

* 2 x 30 mm MK 103 cannons, nose-mounted (72 rpg = 144 total)
* 2 x 30 mm MK 108 cannons, nose-mounted (66 rpg = 132 total)
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, nose-mounted (146 rpg = 292 total)

== Usage in battles ==


As a modified [[Me 262 A-1a]], its role in the battle has not changed that much. The added cannons (namely, the MK 103) make the plane more capable at its battle rating. The MK 103s can carry an ammo belt that has the capability of penetrating the roofs of some tanks when playing in Ground Realistic battles. It is advisable to fire each pair of cannons separately, because all of its autocannons have a different muzzle velocity (about 200 m/s) and different amounts of ammunition. MK 108s will run dry first, followed by the MK 103s, and lastly the MG 151s.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Decent offensive armament of 6 autocannons
* MK 103 cannons can fire HVAP rounds that penetrate 77 mm of armour
* MK 103s have a relatively high muzzle velocity
* Stealth belts will shred jet and prop

'''Cons:'''

* Lacklustre acceleration and poor climb rate
* Control surfaces compress above 650 km/h
* Poor stall performance, control surfaces are ineffective below 350 km/h
* G-LOC quickly becomes prominent when slightly manoeuvring above 700 km/h
* Inaccurate and slow guns, difficult to use

== History ==


The Me 262A-1a/U1 is a modification of the world's first mass produced jet fighter, the German [[Me 262 A-1a|Me 262]] 'Schwalbe'. The armament of the A-1 sub-serie, being four 30 mm MK 108 auto cannons, had a number of drawbacks, such as cycle failures and complex heavy shell ballistics. For these reasons, engineers experimented with different variations as to the weaponry, including a reinforced cannon battery. As such, the Me.262A-1a/U1 modification was created as part of this program. German engineers managed to fit 6 autocannons in the nose: 2 x 20 mm MG.151/20, 2 x 30 mm stock version MK 108, and 2 x 30 mm MK 103 guns. For the latter, they developed shells with a higher initial speed, and the guns themselves had a longer barrel length than the MK 108, as well as an effective muzzle brake - all to improve the ballistics of the heavy shells. They built a prototype (according to other sources, there were three units), but the project was not entered into mass production. However, one example was flown by one of the most effective jet aces of World War II, Heinz Bär, who flew it at the end of April 1945, and with it, even shot down several Thunderbolts in the skies over Germany.

''- From [[wt:en/news/6386-development-squadron-vehicles-me-262a-1a-u1-en|Devblog]]''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=me-262a1_u1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Me 262 A-1a/U1 Devblog Images" heights="200">
File:Me 262A-1a U1 WTWallpaper 001.jpg|
File:Me 262A-1a U1 WTWallpaper 002.jpg|
File:Me 262A-1a U1 WTWallpaper 003.jpg|
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|V77eUJjifzM|'''The Me-262 family''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 3:17 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|d5k2T9FP0bQ|'''Avoid them in frontal attack!''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 2:33 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|bxalaBFUfb8|'''The Shooting Range #174''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 04:45 discusses the Me 262 "Schwalbe".|V7WNaq8wiqQ|'''Me 262 A-1a/U1 - Squadron Vehicle Overview''' - ''Bacongaming''|n7R9ix6KSfY|''' The Germans were NUTS - Me 262 A-1a/U1''' - ''PhlyDaily''|qzjY5kxmkkI|'''The Joke Of The German Tech Tree - Me 262 A-1a/U1 Squadron Vehicle''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


* '''Related development'''
** [[Me 262 (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6386-development-squadron-vehicles-me-262a-1a-u1-en|[Development<nowiki>]</nowiki> Squadron vehicles: Me 262A-1a/U1]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/320881-messerschmitt-me-262-a-1a-a-1au4/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}
{{Squadron aircraft}}

B-24D-25-CO

2024-03-28T22:45:46Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{Specs-Card
|code=b_24d
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

The Consolidated B-24D Liberator was built to be a long-range four-engine heavy bomber. It is most efficiently used for bombing stationary targets like bases, airfields, and pillboxes from high altitude.

The Liberator can cruise somewhat faster than the Boeing B-17E Flying Fortress and can also carry a heavier payload. Unfortunately, its manoeuvrability and handling are significantly worse thanks to the Davis wing design, which is optimized for efficient level flight only. Evasive manoeuvres are not easy to pull off and typically result in loss of altitude or going into a spin.

In line with the USAAF's philosophy during World War II, the Liberator is equipped with a relatively heavy defensive armament of eleven .50 cal AN/M2 heavy machine guns staffed by gunners. The theory behind this was intended that an American bomber would be able to defend itself from enemy fighters in daylight missions. These guns have excellent coverage and there is no angle from which attackers may come from on which no guns can be brought to bear.

Compared to the B-17E, the Liberator can carry an additional 2 x 1,000 lb (454 kg) bombs. However, this maximum payload of 8,000 lb (3,632 kg) compares very unfavourably against other heavy bombers like the [[Yer-2_ACh-30B/L|Yermolayev Yer-2 with ACh-30B engines]] (5,000 kg), [[Do 217 M-1|Dornier Do 217]] series (4,000 kg), and [[Lancaster B Mk I|Lancaster]] series (14,000 lb or 6,363 kg), all of which have much lower battle ratings. On the flip side, while its payload may not have been as great as other nation's bombers, over 18,500 B-24 bombers were built over the duration of the war (the most produced bomber) and were deployed in sheer numbers unmatched by any other bomber.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 7,620 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
| 477 || 465 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 39.1 || 40.2 || 3.0 || 2.9 || rowspan="2" | 820
|-
! Upgraded
| 511 || 494 || 36.9 || 38.0 || 6.6 || 4.6
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 600  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 357 || 263 || ~4 || ~2
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 200 || < 180 || < 180 || > 300
|-
|}

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


* 9.5 mm Steel - Armour plates behind the pilots
* 9.5 mm Steel - Armour plates in front of the dorsal gunner
* 9.5 mm Steel - Armour plate in front of the ventral gunner
* 9.5 mm Steel - Armour plate behind beam gunners
* 9.5 mm Steel - Armour plates around the tail gunner
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Tail gunner's rear facing window

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

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

{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)}}

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

* 8 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 20 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
* 12 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 8 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (6,400 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (8,000 lb total)

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 3 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, nose turret (300 rpg = 900 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, dorsal turret (400 rpg = 800 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, ventral turret (508 rpg = 1,016 total)
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (250 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, tail turret (400 rpg = 800 total)

== Usage in battles ==

The Liberator will face many high-altitude dedicated bomber interceptors with 20–30 mm cannons, making for an extremely dangerous environment. The defensive guns should be treated as a last resort; combat with fighters should be avoided at all costs by the use of careful route planning and cloud cover, if available.

If pursued, attempt to manoeuvre the Liberator so that the enemy is forced into a tail-chase, where the Liberator's defensive guns are most effective.

Low-level bombing is not recommended due to the limited manoeuvrability of the aircraft, the Liberator simply doesn't have the performance to get away with it and you will be an easy target for enemy fighters.

====Counter-tactics====

When going up against the B-24D, it is very important that the attacker must never underestimate the sheer defensive power this bomber holds. If not careful, your plane will either become critically damaged or a ball of fire from only a few hits from the 12.7 mm M2 Browning MGs.

The number one rule when fighting a bomber is to never engage it in front or the back; this applies heavily when engaging the B-24D since you will have 6 machine guns facing you. The best way to attack this bomber is from above or the sides. Attacking from below is highly discouraged since you will be forced to pull up in order to engage and end up above the bomber where 4 machine guns will be facing you automatically. Boom & Zoom tactics are highly recommended since it allows you to evade machine gun fire and be on the constant move at high speeds making it difficult for the gunners to get a bead on you.

When engaging the B-24D, you must always keep your momentum and never stall or bleed your speed. Losing speed means you are an easier target to hit, which means you are an easier target to shoot down. Aiming at the engines will also stress your opponent as it will cause the bomber to lose speed rapidly or even better, catch fire. If you wish for an easy kill without wasting precious time, it is recommended to aim for the bomber's wings. Damaging the wings of the plane will cause it to tilt to one side or snap.

The last thing a player should take note is the plane they plane they are flying. As bad as it sounds, a Japanese plane is more likely to be brought down than a German plane due to the difference in armour, it is better to bring an aircraft with some form of protection rather than a plane with no protection, this will determine your chances of survival by a great amount.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable 1 gear || Auto controlled
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Heavy defensive armament, protected from every angle (deadly from frontal and rear attacks)
* Heavier payload than the [[B-17E/L]], however comparable to [[B-17G-60-VE|B-17G]]
* Overall better flight performance than the B-17E/L in level flight
* Great defensive armament with almost full coverage from the turrets
* Impressive rear, sideways, and top turret coverage makes it a very tough target in simulator
* Has two pilots who are protected by multiple layers of armour behind, meaning it is hard to pilot snipe it from behind
* Tricycle landing gear allows continuous breaking until full stop, without having to worry about flipping over
* Critical parts such as gunners/cooling systems are quite spread out, which helps to soak up damage

'''Cons:'''

* Poor handling, built for top speed and level flight, not manoeuvring
* Significantly lower payload compared to heavy bombers of other nations
* Twin tail configuration reduces manoeuvrability, rectified in [[PB4Y-2|PB4Y-2 ''Privateer'']] with a single tail
* Your a bomber, so you will get shot down if you don't have aim bot aim.

== History ==

The B-24 was produced in several variants to fulfil operational and training needs. More Liberators were eventually built than any other US Warplane during World War II. The first B-24 prototype flew in December of 1939 named "XB-24". The aircraft was designed around the "Davis" wing, a long, thin, large area structure mounted high on the fuselage. The long wingspan gave the B-24 excellent high altitude performance and allowed it to extend its range. The twin bomb-bays were called "roller shutter" doors. The doors rolled up into the aircraft. The purpose of this design was to reduce the drag while the bomb bay doors are open. The bomb-load was stored vertically with a catwalk down the middle, this gave crews easy access to the rear of the fuselage. The Liberator was powered by four 1,200 HP Pratt & Whitney R-1830 engines. The aircraft also included a twin tail design and tricycle landing gear.

The B-24 made its operational debut in June of 1942. It was tasked with long-range raids on Germany's Romanian oilfields. The B-24 is commonly remembered for its service with the Eighth Air Force but it filled a desperate roll for the navy as a long-range patrol aircraft. After huge losses of allied shipping, the Navy was granted access to Liberators. These aircraft were operated under the designation PB4Y. They were equipped with air to surface radar and depth charges. The B-24 also quickly replaced the B-17 in the Pacific theatre due to its long-range capabilities. The B-24 was used to bring havoc to Japanese land installations and naval vessels. Liberators stayed in service until 1951, they were replaced by the Privateer.

The B-24 is often unfairly compared to the B-17. The B-24 was newer, more efficient, and much more versatile then Boeing's design. The B-24 saw action on all fronts, its most valuable work may have been against U-boats. The aircraft also saw work as a cargo plane, tanker, patrol, and reconnaissance. Even some were armed with additional guns as escorts. The B-24 was not as popular with its crews as the B-17. The B-24 was known to catch fire in battle easier and at times was known to suffer from hydraulic problems.

{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
The Consolidated B-24D "Liberator" heavy bomber was created as a part of "Project A" a program launched to enhance the USA's industrial capacity to meet the needs of the Air Force. The contract for the aircraft, which was to be an improved B-17, was received by Consolidated in March of 1939, with a prototype required by the end of the year. The prototype was finished and made its first flight just two days before the deadline on December 29.

The new aircraft, although more difficult to control, was superior to the B-17 in range, operational ceiling, and maximum speed. In addition, it could carry a significantly larger bomb load (up to 3629 kg), which largely determined its application: the first models delivered to England were mainly used for coastal protection from German submarines.

The first successful modification of the aircraft was the B-24D, which was mass-produced from 1940 to 1942. This model had four 1,200 hp engines, and its armament was modified over time, based on pilot feedback. Eventually, it was equipped with eleven 12.7 mm machine guns (three in the nose, two remote-controlled guns in the dorsal turret, two in the ventral ball turret, one machine gun in each side window, and two machine guns in the tail turret).

The B-24 was the most mass-produced Allied bomber in World War II - all in all, 18,482 B-24s were produced, 2,696 of which were B-24Ds. These bombers were made in several factories. The factory which produced the most was the Henry Ford plant in Willow Run, which in 1944 released a B-24 every hour, 650 planes per month.

The B-24 was actively used in the Pacific and European theaters of war.
{{Navigation-End}}

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b_24d Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|qR4zPyav9hk|'''The Shooting Range #320''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 04:15 discusses an air battle between a Liberator and Condors.|FHjd7MDjrMg|'''Spade Review. B-24 Liberator. Fly it like a PB4Y!''' - ''Joseph 2000''|-u9qHJjOEV0|'''B-24 EXPERIENCE in War Thunder''' - ''Munitions''}}

== See also ==


* [[B-24/PB4Y (Family)]]

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

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

{{AirManufacturer Consolidated}}
{{USA bombers}}

B-26B

2024-03-28T22:39:33Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the French version
| link = B-26C
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b_26b_c
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Wind of Change"]].

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 3,962 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
| 403 || 387 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.3 || 36.6 || 2.4 || 2.4 || rowspan="2" | 950
|-
! Upgraded
| 525 || 491 || 32.8 || 34.0 || 10.3 || 5.6
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 568  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 382 || 320 || 297 || ~8 || ~3
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 270 || < 320 || < 370 || > ___
|-
|}

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


* 12.7 mm steel - floor and port side of nose gunner/bombardier's position
* 8 mm steel - slightly curved armor plates behind flight deck seats (pilot, co-pilot, plus one unoccupied position that is presumably the navigator/radio operator's position)
* 9 mm steel - under main oil coolers in each engine nacelle
* 12.7 mm steel - under beam gunner
* 12.7 mm steel - two curved plates aft of dorsal turret
* 12.7 mm steel - aft of tail gunner
* 8 mm bulletproof glass - small window for tail gunner

There is basically no protection from the front for the flight crew, so while your offensive battery of five forward-firing M2 Brownings might make head-on attacks tempting, your pilots are shockingly vulnerable from that angle.

The four large self-sealing fuel tanks in the wings are relatively easy targets for enemy fighters, and your engines are also an easy target. To make matters worse, the B-26 had a reputation for being very challenging to keep in the air with only one engine. While the Marauder is often able to absorb a considerable amount of punishment, it is unlikely you'll make it alive back to base. Use your speed to keep pursuing fighters on your tail, where your relatively well protected defensive gunners can discourage pursuit.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, nose-mounted (200 rpg)
* 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, cheek-mounted (250 rpg upper + 200 rpg lower = 900 total)

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

{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)|H.E. M31 (300 lb)|H.E. M32 (600 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)}}
{{main|AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)|Mk.13-6 (2,216 lb)}}

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

* 30 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
* 14 x 300 lb H.E. M31 bombs (4,200 lb total)
* 8 x 600 lb H.E. M32 bombs (4,800 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 2 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (3,200 lb total)
* 1 x 2,216 lb Mk.13-6 torpedo

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, nose turret (270 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, dorsal turret (400 rpg = 800 total)
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (240 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, tail turret (800 rpg = 1,600 total)

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Auto control available || Separate || Controllable 2 gears || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===

''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''

'''Pros:'''

* Fighter planes will have trouble once you hit your max speed at your correct altitude
* Anti-tank bombs (AKA armor-piercing bombs) are good for CAS uses
* The 30x payload is good for strips of AAA and armoured cars.
* Offensive Armament is good for taking out enemy bombers
* Guns can fire the whole ammo pool without jamming when upgraded
* In AB, once at max speed the enemy will have trouble catching you

*

'''Cons:'''

* The nose gunner isn't really reliable
* One bomb load can really take care of one base
* The front guns need to be angled up to be used

*

== History ==

The Martin B-26 medium bomber was submitted by the Glenn L. Martin company in 1939 to the same USAAC specification (Circular Proposal 39-640) as the North American B-25 Mitchell, and both were accepted off the drawing board. Unsurprisingly, the two airplanes share much in common: twin-engined medium bombers, similar in size, with similar offensive and defensive armament. Both saw service in all major theaters of the war, with both U.S. and allied forces.

What sets the B-26 Marauder apart is that it was designed for speed; designed around two massively powerful Pratt & Whitney R-2800 radial engines, its maximum speed is a full 10% faster than its slightly smaller and lighter B-25 counterpart. However, this speed came at a cost. With high wing loading and demanding flight characteristics, the B-26 was noticeably harder to fly than the Mitchell. This pilot skill differential, combined with the pressures of wartime training, led to a track record of deadly crashes early in the plane's history, gaining a reputation as a "widow maker".

Despite this unpromising start to its career, the B-26 Marauder racked up a solid combat record. Mostly deployed at medium altitude missions, it became known for accurate bombing, and by the end of the war, the U.S. 9th Air Force reported that the so-called "widow maker" recorded the lowest combat loss rate of any aircraft type.<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_B-26_Marauder</ref> One B-26, named "Flak Bait", survived over 200 missions and is on display at the Smithsonian Institution's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center.<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flak-Bait</ref>

Although most of its combat flying was done in the European Theater of Operations, a notable early engagement in the Pacific was the sortie of four torpedo-equipped Marauders against the Japanese fleet during the Battle of Midway. None of the torpedoes hit, two of the planes were lost, and the other two returned so badly shot-up that they were written off. Over the fleet and pursued by Japanese A6M Zeroes, a B-26 named "Susie Q" actually overflew the length of the Akagi's flight deck at very low level, strafing the deck crew with its machine guns. Susie Q landed, just barely, back at Midway with over 500 bullet holes.<ref>https://www.pacificwar.org.au/Midway/USArmy_at_Midway.html</ref>

The in-game version represents the B-26B model after some modifications had been made, including lengthening the wings to improve (but not eliminate) the tricky handling characteristics. Most B-26 were built at the Glenn L. Martin plant in Baltimore, Maryland, but the essentially identical B-26C (found in the French tech tree) was built in Omaha, Nebraska. A total of 5,288 aircraft of all models were built between 1941 and 1945.<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_B-26_Marauder</ref>

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b_26b_c Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|K09goo8T4jM|'''The Shooting Range #345''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:46 discusses the B-26.}}

== 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/7577-development-b-26-marauder-into-the-fray-en|[Devblog] B-26 Marauder: Into the Fray]]

{{AirManufacturer Martin}}
{{USA bombers}}
<references />

AM-1

2024-03-28T20:22:56Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{Specs-Card
|code=am_1_mauler
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
|cockpit=cockpit_am_1_mauler.jpg
}}

== Description ==

The '''Martin AM Mauler''' is a single-engine carrier-based attack aircraft built for the United States Navy. First ordered during World War II in 1944, it was designed to carry as much payload as possible while being capable of operating on an aircraft carriers. After delays due to the engine cooling and stability problem, the Mauler has entered service in 1948 on board carrier air groups.

Because of its impressive payload of up to 4.5 tons, the Mauler was initially nicknamed "Able Mable", however this was superseded by the more derogatory "Awful Monster" by its crews and those who were operated with it. This is because the Mauler suffered from problems stemmed from excessive torque that resulted into the plane being very sluggish to handle, very hard to land on an carrier (at one point even broke its tail during landing due to it being unable to handle its weight) and its hydraulic fluid that would leak very often, thus making it a maintenance nightmare. In the end, the Mauler was the plane that were built to what the USN wanted, but not what they were needed, and it would be retired just 5 years later, being superseded by the more capable and reliable [[AD Skyraider (Family)|AD Skyraider]].

Introduced in [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"]]. The {{PAGENAME}} is a classic American attack aircraft. As typical, it is heavy and cumbersome yet hard-hitting and versatile due to the weapons it can carry. Don't expect to effectively dogfight in the Mauler as the main purpose of this aircraft is to strike and eliminate the enemy's ground units. The {{PAGENAME}} has the option to outfit HVARS and Tiny Tims rockets and bombs of all sizes depending on the targets to be hit. Enemy fighters should be avoided as they will typically be faster, more manoeuvrable and better equipped for air-to-air combat at which the Mauler is at a significant disadvantage, however, when pressed into air combat some Mauler pilots may end up working miracles and survive the encounter should they timed their turn to face the enemy well enough.

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

The {{PAGENAME}} is a rather cumbersome and heavy aircraft. For pilots new to the aircraft, they will notice even without a payload, the aircraft feels sluggish and can be even more frustrating early on while the aircraft is still in its stock phase. With powerful Pratt & Whitney R-4360 "Twin Cyclone" engine, the Mauler can accelerate fairly quickly, especially in a dive with payloads. As such, it comes with an airbrakes to help slow down the plane and prevent it from being lawndarted into the ground.

At low speeds, this aircraft is an easy target to prey on, especially with heavy payload. Despite the circumstances, it is decently manoeuvrable for a single-seated attack aircraft, especially at high speed, allowing for the targeting of ground targets or even catch the enemy fighter off-guard, however, care must be taken when it is necessary to manoeuvre as this aircraft bleeds energy very quickly.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 3,500 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
| 566 || 547 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.0 || 23.8 || 10.9 || 10.9 || rowspan="2" | 170
|-
! Upgraded
|617|| 589 ||21.1|| 22.0 ||18.4|| 14.2
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 420 || 350 || 300 || ~12 || ~6
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 450 || < 220 || < 500 || > 440
|-
|}

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


The pilot is protected in the front by 40 mm of bulletproof glass and in the back by 9.5 mm of steel. There are also two 9.5 mm steel plates under the engine and cooling system.

The aircraft has three self-sealing fuel tanks: one behind the pilot, and one in either wing root. Since the fuel tanks are not particularly large, and since they're all located in one location, fuel fires are unlikely in this vehicle. However, if a fire does occur, the centralized location of the tanks near all of the vehicle's critical components means that the fire is not likely to put itself out.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|T31 (20 mm)}}

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

* 4 x 20 mm T31 cannons, wing-mounted (200 rpg = 800 total)

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


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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="3%" | 1 !! width="3%" | 2 !! width="3%" | 3 !! width="3%" | 4 !! width="3%" | 5 !! width="3%" | 6 !! width="3%" | 7 !! width="3%" | 8 !! width="3%" | 9 !! width="3%" | 10 !! width="3%" | 11 !! width="3%" | 12 !! width="3%" | 13 !! width="3%" | 14 !! width="3%" | 15
| rowspan="11" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
|-
! [[AN-M57 (250 lb)|250 lb AN-M57]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|500 lb AN-M64A1]] bombs
| || || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || ||
|-
! [[AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb AN-M65A1]] bombs
| || || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || ||
|-
! [[AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)|1,600 lb AN-Mk 1]] bombs
| || || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || ||
|-
! [[AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb AN-M66A2]] bombs
| || || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || ||
|-
! [[HVAR]] rockets
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[Tiny Tim]] rockets
| || || || || || || 1 || || 1 || || || || || ||
|-
! [[Mk.13-6 Case (2,216 lb)|2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case]] torpedoes
| || || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || ||
|-
! [[Type A Mark I mine|Type A Mark I]] mines
| || || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || ||
|-
| colspan="16" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,200 kg
|-
|}

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

* Without load
* 12 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (3,000 lb total)
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)
* 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
* 3 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (4,800 lb total)
* 3 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 3 x 2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case torpedoes
* 3 x Type A Mark I mines
* 12 x HVAR rockets
* 2 x Tiny Tim rockets
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==


The AM-1 is a classic attacker, and it will come as no surprise that its manoeuvrability is lacking. It's fine at high speeds, but at low speeds, the aircraft quickly becomes sluggish, even when no payload is equipped. The plane also has poor acceleration and poor manoeuvring energy retention, all of which means that this plane struggles in a dogfight. If the pilot does find themselves in an engagement against a dedicated fighter aircraft, the best thing to do would be to fly towards a teammate who can help.

Where this plane shines is in a ground-attack role. The cannons, when using ground target belts, can take out lightly armoured targets quite effectively, and the high ammo count is certainly a nice bonus. Additionally, this plane receives an incredible number of ordnance options, from [[HVAR]] and [[Tiny Tim]] rockets to up to 5,000 lbs of bombs. In Air Realistic battles these can destroy the most heavily armoured ground targets, and in Ground Realistic these allow the pilot to achieve 7 kills against enemy ground units without landing to reload.

This plane also receives three torpedoes for use in naval battles.

All in all, the AM-1 is a below-average fighter with incredible anti-ground capabilities. Although sluggish, it more than makes up for it in pure firepower.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Not controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Auto control available || Separate || Not controllable 1 gear || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Large and versatile payload, with custom loadout options
* Decent 20 mm cannons for head-ons or ground attack purposes
* Reasonably manoeuvrable at medium-to-high speeds
* Airbrakes and arresting hook
* 3 torpedoes in ship battles can cause serious damage to several large ships

'''Cons:'''

* No defensive armament
* Sluggish at low speeds, especially with heavy payload
* Poor acceleration
* Bleeds energy quickly if manoeuvring
* Engine overheats fairly quickly

== History ==


'''Development'''

In the 1930s and 1940s the Navy had two designations for carrier-based bombers: dive bombers and torpedo bombers, which each had a crew of 2-3 men. It was found during the war that more than 1 crewman was unnecessary, even in combat situations. In addition, if the two classes of naval bombers were combined into one aircraft, it would allow for a carrier's air group to have more flexibility and to increase the amount of fighters on the carrier. The Navy asked for design proposals for a multi-purpose bomber in 1943, and chose 4 designs to continue. These were the Curtiss XBTC, Douglas XBT2D Skyraider, Kaiser-Fleetwings XBTK, and the Martin XBTM. The Navy asked Martin to create a design using the Pratt and Whitney R-4360 Wasp Major engine as a backup to the Curtiss design, which the Navy feared was overly complex.

'''Design'''

The XBTM-1 was a low-wing monoplane with folding wings for carrier storage, and conventional landing gear. It featured a single-seat cockpit with a teardrop shaped canopy right behind the engine. There was a 150 gallon fuel tank behind the cockpit. There was a dive break that ran the length of the trailing edge of the wing. The wing design was ideal for dive bombing, because of the large surface area, but the ailerons were much less efficient, as they were not wide. The pilot and oil cooler were protected by heavy armour. The primary armament consisted of four 20 mm T-31 cannons in the wings with 200 rounds per gun. Additional armament was suspended on one centreline hardpoint, and two outer hardpoints. These hardpoints could carry bombs, drop tanks, or torpedoes up to 2,300 pounds. The outer hardpoints could also take an AN/APS-4 search radar pod. 6 hardpoints could be added to the outer wings to carry 500 pound bombs or 5 inch rockets. After testing of the first two prototypes, slight modifications were made to the engine cowling, propeller, rudder, and vertical stabilizer. The BTM-1 was redesignated as the AM-1 in 1946.

'''Production and Service'''

The Navy ordered 750 BTM-1s in January of 1945, but changed the order to only 99 after the Japanese surrender in August. After the modifications to the design, and the re-designation to AM-1, deliveries began in March of 1947. A number of issues were found, including a badly laid out cockpit, tailhook issues, elevator control, and structural weakness of the fuselage. These issues were solved and mitigated. The Navy ordered 50 more AM-1s, known as the AM-1 Mauler. An electronic countermeasure version was created, known as the AM-1Q. The AM-1Q added an electronics operator in the fuselage, where the fuel tank used to be. The Mauler was found to be a hard to handle aircraft. It did not do well in carrier landings, and was hard to fly in a formation, plus it had maintenance issues. Despite this, it could carry more ordnance than the AD Skyraider, and was more stable when dive bombing.

The AM-1 was given to squadrons in the Atlantic Fleet. It served for a relatively short amount of time, as although the Skyraider could carry less secondary armament, it flew better, landed better, and was more reliable. In 1950, all Maulers were moved to shore-based squadrons, but they were abandoned in the same year to Naval Reserve squadrons. They were retired from service with the Naval Reserve squadrons in 1953.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=am_1_mauler Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|8JcG-_L0oLo|'''The Shooting Range #313''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:20 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|Ze0dEvB77fE|'''Best Combo #3''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 3:18 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Blackburn [[Firebrand TF Mk IV|Firebrand]]
* Blackburn [[Firecrest]]
* Douglas [[AD-2|A-1]] Skyraider
* Westland [[Wyvern S4|Wyvern]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/453522-am-1/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Martin}}
{{USA strike aircraft}}

F-84F (Germany)

2024-03-28T20:19:20Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
|about=German strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage=other versions
|link=F-84 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-84f_germany
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

After an 11-year hiatus, the West German Air Force was revived after Germany was brought into NATO to counter the Soviet threat. As part of the initiative to further arm countries in NATO, multiple countries like West Germany and Italy received hundreds of F-84F Thunderstreaks. The Luftwaffe received over 400 F-84Fs in the late 1950s and early 1960s. JagdBomberGeschwader 31 (JBG31) would be the first air wing with the F-84Fs. As more air wings received the Thunderstreaks, the accident rate went up as well. Germany had a 25+% loss rate with the new Thunderstreaks and the public complained about it. This trend would continue with the F-104, the next plane the Luftwaffe ordered to replace the F-84F in 1966.

Introduced in [[Update "Hot Tracks"]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a decent strike aircraft that can carry 250 lb bombs up to 2,000 lb bombs along with rockets. The six centre-mounted M3 Browning machine guns are incredibly effective in taking out light pillboxes and other soft ground targets like anti-air or howitzers. However, the F-84F struggles with fighting other aircraft. The speed of the earlier F-84Gs is largely insignificant when it comes to the F-84F as many other planes in its BR bracket are much better in terms of performance. Ultimately, it's a good strike aircraft that suffers when it comes to defending itself or attacking other enemy players.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 0 m - sea level)
! 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
| 1,090 || 1,067 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 29.7 || 30.9 || 30.7 || 28.8 || rowspan="2" | 2,000
|-
! Upgraded
| 1,111 || 1,102 || 26.5 || 28.0 || 45.9 || 38.0
|-
|}

==== 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 || ✓ 
|-
|}

{| 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 533 || 515 || 417 || ~11 || ~3
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 630 || < 600 || < 650 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | 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="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Wright J65-W-7 || 1
| colspan="2" | 6,667 kg || colspan="2" | 279 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 29m fuel
|-
| 1,260 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
| 7,177 kg || 7,838 kg || 8,368 kg || 8,935 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="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 29m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 3,470 kgf || N/A
| 0.48 || 0.44 || 0.41 || 0.39
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 3,470 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.48 || 0.44 || 0.41 || 0.39
|-
|}

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

The F-84F has three armoured pieces protecting the pilot. There is a 38 mm pane of bulletproof glass angled at 61° directly in front of the pilot. An 8 mm steel plate angled at 15° sits directly behind the pilot's seat and almost entirely covers the pilot directly from the rear. Lastly, there is a 12.7 mm steel plate angled at 56° right above and behind the pilot's head. The F-84F has six self-sealing fuel tanks. Two of the tanks sit near the wingtips, and another two are placed at the wing roots. Lastly, one fuel tank sits directly beneath the pilot and the final tank is behind the pilot. Although the F-84F does have armour and self-sealing fuel tanks, it's ultimately futile when many of its opponents have high-powered cannons like DEFAs or NR-23s.

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

For modifications, as with almost all jets in the German tree, performance and survivability mods should be priority, except for the booster which really is not all that necessary and lends itself to more wing rips. G-Suit is a must. The six .50 calibre guns are accurate enough baselines as is the ammo, so go for the bombs and/or rockets next.

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
|-
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
|-
| {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M3 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

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

* 4 x 12.7 mm M3 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (300 rpg = 1,200 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M3 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (300 rpg = 600 total)

=== 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
| rowspan="9" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F-84F.png]]</div>
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[BLU-1 incendiary]] bombs
| || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || ||
|-
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
| 7 || 7 || 7 || || || 7 || 7 || 7
|-
! [[HVAR]] rockets
| 2 || 2 || 2 || 6 || 6 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| colspan="9" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 2,700 kg Maximum permissible wing load: 1,350 kg Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 700 kg
|-
|}

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

* Without load
* 24 x HVAR rockets
* 42 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
* 4 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 4 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (2,000 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 2 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 4 x BLU-1 incendiary bombs
{{Navigation-End}}

== Usage in battles ==

The F-84F gets a bad rap, but it is a surprisingly fun aircraft to fly, more so once spaded. The air spawn is a big help in grinding up the aircraft modifications. Until the bombs are unlocked, use the advantage of the air spawn to climb and look for bombers. If no bombers are present, look for fighters engaging friendlies.

Keep the F-84F's speed around 700 km/h when climbing. The aircraft has relatively good dive acceleration and top end for its BR. This makes it a natural for Boom and Run tactics. Make sure the plane is set up so the run is either toward the airfield or friendlies so that any chasers will be picked off by allies and or the airfield's anti-air defenses. Try to engage at as close to 1,000 km/h as possible and do not try to turn if the target goes evasive. This aircraft has terrible acceleration, so it is important to keep the F-84F's speed up. Quite often the F-84F will get chasers with AIM-9Bs. Keep a look out for them and use occasional hard manoeuvres to break lock. Fortunately, it does not take much to break lock of the AIM-9Bs.

For the payload usage, the rockets, though inaccurate, are still fun to use en masse against targets, especially the Mighty Mouse rockets with a total of 42 rockets. However, the drag from the Mighty Mouse launchers is a problem. For bombs, the F-84F can effectively base bomb at the BR with the four 1,000 lb Mk 83s and be able to engage unsuspecting targets during the return to the airfield. Just remember, no turn fighting. When attempting to dive-bomb targets, use the air brakes to be able to adjust the planes better during its descent onto the target. When all bombs are expended and the F-84F begins their landing approach, use the air brake to help decelerate the plane to a manageable landing speed for the gears and flaps, then rely on the drogue chute to stop the plane on the airfield.

=== Radars ===

The F-84F is equipped with an AN/APG-30 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="4" | AN/APG-30 - Rangefinding radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Tracking Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum Tracking Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
|-
| 2,750 m || 300 m || ±9° || ±9°
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* 4 nose-mounted .50 cals plus 2 near the side of the airframe making accurate shots possible
* A lot of variety of choices for ground ordnance
* Good acceleration in a steep dive

'''Cons:'''

* Turning is below average so don't expect to last long in a dogfight with any aircraft
* While turning, speed is bled a lot so maintain your speed
* Will commonly face air-to-air missiles, there AIM-9B's so just turn sharp to evade them
* Most jets will catch up to you due to the poor acceleration
* The FFAR rockets are placed at the wing tips, this will result in poor accuracy

== 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).''

=== [[wt:en/news/6990-development-f-84f-thunderstreak-en|Devblog]] ===
In the late 1940's, the manufacturer 'Republic' sought to improve the performance of the F-84 in order to bring it closer in line with the F-86 Sabre. As a result, it developed a new variant of the Thunderjet, designated F-84F. The new aircraft featured, among other changes, a new swept wing and a more powerful engine than its predecessor. Although Republic initially intended the new aircraft to be an extensive modernization of the base F-84, possessing a high degree of part compatibility with preceding variants, in the end, only less than 20% of the parts were interchangeable, resulting in the F-84F Thunderstreak becoming its own independent design.

Following its maiden flight in the early 1950's, the F-84F was ordered into production. However, the USAF focus on strategic bombers at the time resulted in some critical component manufacturing processes being prioritized for bomber production, ultimately leading to a staggered production start of the new F-84F.

The Thunderstreak officially entered service with the USAF in 1954, but was quickly phased out of active service due to engine issues before being reactivated in the early 1960's as tensions between the two superpowers began to rise again. Ultimately, the F-84F kept flying under American colors well into the early 1970's before finally being retired as newer aircraft replaced the Thunderstreak in active service.

The F-84F was also widely exported to NATO members. Chiefly among them were Germany, France, Italy, Belgium, Greece, China, the Netherlands as well as others. In total, well over 2,100 F-84F Thunderstreaks were built, with the Greek Air Force being the last to retire their F-84Fs in 1991.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-84f_germany Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" caption="F-84F (Germany) Devblog Images" heights="200">
File:F-84F (Germany) WTWallpaper 001.jpg|
File:F-84F (Germany) WTWallpaper 002.jpg|
</gallery>

== 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/6990-development-f-84f-thunderstreak-en|[Devblog] F-84F Thunderstreak]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/510660-f-84f-thunderstreak/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Republic}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}

Me 262 A-1a/U1

2024-03-20T21:09:57Z

U140753025: pros and cons

{{About
| about = squadron German strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Me 262 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=me-262a1_u1
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_Me_262_A1a-U1.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a squadron rank {{Specs|rank}} German strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update 1.91 "Night Vision"]]. It can be unlocked with squadron activity points or purchased with Golden Eagles.

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

The Me 262 A-1a/U1 severely lacks engine power compared to its contemporaries and is heavy, resulting in a lacklustre acceleration and a poor climb rate. Control surfaces compress above 650 km/h and G-LOC becomes prominent when slightly manoeuvring above 700 km/h. It also performs poorly in a stall, as the control surfaces become ineffective below 350 km/h, making recoveries difficult.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 6,000 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
| 823 || 797 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 29.3 || 30.1 || 15.7 || 14.7 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 908 || 865 || 27.4 || 28.0 || 23.7 || 19.5
|-
|}

==== 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 || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 558 || 529 || 380 || ~10 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 500 || < 600 || < 680 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="6" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="3" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Junkers Jumo 004B-1 || 2
| colspan="3" | 4,550 kg || colspan="3" | 310 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="5" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 16m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 53m fuel
|-
| 720 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
| 5,164 kg || 5,311 kg || 5,679 kg || 6,231 kg || 6,525 kg || 6,520 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="6" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 16m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 45m fuel || 53m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 910 kgf || N/A
| 0.35 || 0.34 || 0.32 || 0.29 || 0.28 || 0.28
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 910 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.35 || 0.34 || 0.32 || 0.29 || 0.28 || 0.28
|-
|}

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


* 15 mm Steel - Behind the pilot
* 15 mm Steel - Pilot's headrest
* 15 mm Steel - Between cockpit and fore fuel tank
* 15 mm Steel - Instrument panel plate
* 16 mm Steel x 2 - Ammunition protection plates
* 90 mm Bulletproof glass

The engines are very fragile. Any hit at this BR often results in critical damage

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|MK 103 (30 mm)|MK 108 (30 mm)|MG 151 (20 mm)}}

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

* 2 x 30 mm MK 103 cannons, nose-mounted (72 rpg = 144 total)
* 2 x 30 mm MK 108 cannons, nose-mounted (66 rpg = 132 total)
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, nose-mounted (146 rpg = 292 total)

== Usage in battles ==


As a modified [[Me 262 A-1a]], its role in the battle has not changed that much. The added cannons (namely, the MK 103) make the plane more capable at its battle rating. The MK 103s can carry an ammo belt that has the capability of penetrating the roofs of some tanks when playing in Ground Realistic battles. It is advisable to fire each pair of cannons separately, because all of its autocannons have a different muzzle velocity (about 200 m/s) and different amounts of ammunition. MK 108s will run dry first, followed by the MK 103s, and lastly the MG 151s.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Decent offensive armament of 6 autocannons
* MK 103 cannons can fire HVAP rounds that penetrate 77 mm of armour
* MK 103s have a relatively high muzzle velocity

'''Cons:'''

* Lacklustre acceleration and poor climb rate
* Control surfaces compress above 650 km/h
* Poor stall performance, control surfaces are ineffective below 350 km/h
* G-LOC quickly becomes prominent when slightly manoeuvring above 700 km/h
* Poor survivability. Getting hit by anything often results in critical damage, especially the engines
* Inaccurate and slow guns, difficult to use
* Lack of suspended armaments
* One shot of .50 cal instantly breaks wings

== History ==


The Me 262A-1a/U1 is a modification of the world's first mass produced jet fighter, the German [[Me 262 A-1a|Me 262]] 'Schwalbe'. The armament of the A-1 sub-serie, being four 30 mm MK 108 auto cannons, had a number of drawbacks, such as cycle failures and complex heavy shell ballistics. For these reasons, engineers experimented with different variations as to the weaponry, including a reinforced cannon battery. As such, the Me.262A-1a/U1 modification was created as part of this program. German engineers managed to fit 6 autocannons in the nose: 2 x 20 mm MG.151/20, 2 x 30 mm stock version MK 108, and 2 x 30 mm MK 103 guns. For the latter, they developed shells with a higher initial speed, and the guns themselves had a longer barrel length than the MK 108, as well as an effective muzzle brake - all to improve the ballistics of the heavy shells. They built a prototype (according to other sources, there were three units), but the project was not entered into mass production. However, one example was flown by one of the most effective jet aces of World War II, Heinz Bär, who flew it at the end of April 1945, and with it, even shot down several Thunderbolts in the skies over Germany.

''- From [[wt:en/news/6386-development-squadron-vehicles-me-262a-1a-u1-en|Devblog]]''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=me-262a1_u1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" caption="Me 262 A-1a/U1 Devblog Images" heights="200">
File:Me 262A-1a U1 WTWallpaper 001.jpg|
File:Me 262A-1a U1 WTWallpaper 002.jpg|
File:Me 262A-1a U1 WTWallpaper 003.jpg|
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|V77eUJjifzM|'''The Me-262 family''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 3:17 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|d5k2T9FP0bQ|'''Avoid them in frontal attack!''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 2:33 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|bxalaBFUfb8|'''The Shooting Range #174''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 04:45 discusses the Me 262 "Schwalbe".|V7WNaq8wiqQ|'''Me 262 A-1a/U1 - Squadron Vehicle Overview''' - ''Bacongaming''|n7R9ix6KSfY|''' The Germans were NUTS - Me 262 A-1a/U1''' - ''PhlyDaily''|qzjY5kxmkkI|'''The Joke Of The German Tech Tree - Me 262 A-1a/U1 Squadron Vehicle''' - ''DEFYN''}}

== See also ==


* '''Related development'''
** [[Me 262 (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6386-development-squadron-vehicles-me-262a-1a-u1-en|[Development<nowiki>]</nowiki> Squadron vehicles: Me 262A-1a/U1]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/320881-messerschmitt-me-262-a-1a-a-1au4/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}
{{Squadron aircraft}}

B-29A-BN

2024-03-18T22:23:23Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American heavy bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = B-29/Tu-4 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b-29
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

In the few years leading up to World War II, the United States Army Air Corps (USAAC) realized that its current primary heavy bomber, the [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]] would not have the range nor the payload to efficiently transit what would end up becoming the Pacific Theater. To compensate for this, Boeing began to develop a prototype which would incorporate a pressurized cabin to allow for higher altitude flying, which would help to protect the bomber from Japanese fighters which struggled to get to the higher altitudes.
[[File:B-29 kawashima momo 001.png|350px|thumb|left|A view of the B-29's cockpit.]]
The resulting XB-29 prototype and the later production series B-29 bomber had everything the USAAC was looking for: high-pressured cockpit, a maximum altitude of almost 9,750 m (32,000 ft), true airspeed around 600 km/h (372 mph), and the ability to carry a massive payload of bombs upwards of 9,000 kg (20,000 lbs) in total. Defensive positions on the B-29 were well-placed to ensure maximum coverage surrounding the bomber. This bomber was one of the first aircraft to be fitted with the General Electric Central Fire Control system which could be used to remotely control four of the remotely controlled turrets (two dorsal and two ventral), though in their early stages, this aircraft's turrets each also had a General Electric analogue computer linked to it allowing the weapons to be more accurate by automatically factoring in airspeed, gravity, temperature, and lead time for the inbound aircraft. With this setup, these turrets could be controlled from the nose, tail or any of the three mid-fuselage positions and a single gunner could actually control more than one turret at a time increasing the effectiveness and lethality of the bomber's defences. Bristling with 12 x M2 Browning machine guns, the B-29A-BN was extremely difficult to approach, let alone make a successful pass and leave untouched.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]]. Unlike other bombers which can take on a secondary role as a pseudo-attacker, the B-29A-BN is a bomber, period. The sole purpose of the B-29 is to beat ground targets into submission either with upwards of 40 x 500 lb bombs, 18 x 1,000 lb bombs, 8 x 2,000 lb bombs or 4 x 4,000 lb bombs. The larger 1,000, 2,000 and 4000 lb bombs are perfect for base bombing while the relatively smaller 500 lb bombs make the perfect tool for carpet bombing where vehicles, pillboxes or anti-aircraft artillery may be clustered together. The B-29A-BN is an aerial beast which can drop a beastly amount of explosive ordnance, rivalled by few, but is not immune to enemy fighters. Altitude is this bomber's friend and when achieved can be a safer haven from which to rain down explosives on enemy bases or vehicles. Any opponents that persist in attempting to intercept the B-29 can be easily taken care of by the large complement of defensive .50 cal machine guns, with excellent rate of fire, ammunition capacity, and coverage.

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

[[File:B-29 jonigustavo 001.png|300px|thumb|right]]

The B-29A-BN, much like its contemporaries the Messerschmitt [[Me 264]], Blohm & Voss [[BV 238]] and Tupolev [[Tu-4]] was built for the sole purpose of flying high and dropping large amounts of bombs. To account for these characteristics, others such as manoeuvrability, climb rate and acceleration were compromised. The B-29 is a heavy aircraft which when adding 10,000 – 20,000 lbs of ordnance will only make the plane that much more difficult to get to altitude, but once there this aircraft does have a decent cruising speed. To help speed up gameplay for this aircraft, it is given an air-start at the beginning of matches and also after landing to reload and repair due to its sheer size and difficulty climbing to its bombing altitude.

The typical method of utilising this bomber is to fly the aircraft to a higher altitude. Depending on the enemy fighters, attackers and interceptors which appear in the match, you may be able to stay lower around 6,000 m (20,000 ft) or you may need to increase closer to 9,150 m (30,000 ft) to make it extremely difficult for the fighters to follow you up and many if they do get that high, their engines are struggling to keep the plane above stall speed which provides you with the opportunity to leave them behind or to easily pick them off with your gunners.

One downside to flying at the higher altitudes in arcade battles is that if you bomb a base but don't completely destroy it, it is difficult to circle back around and bomb again when the bombs have reloaded. A wide circle is necessary to accomplish this and it may be better and more efficient instead to fly towards another base, bomb it and turn around and finish off the first base. Another option too is to leave the partially bombed bases for the smaller and slower bombers on your team to finish off or just catch the partially bombed bases on a return pass.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 9,100 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
| 615 || 603 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 33.2 || 34.4 || 4.1 || 4.1 || rowspan="2" | 1,500
|-
! Upgraded
| 669 || 641 || 30.7 || 32.0 || 11.7 || 6.5
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 609  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 332 || 322 || 270 || ~4 || ~2
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 340 || < 350 || < 290 || > 400
|-
|}

====Engine performance====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine Name
! colspan="3" | Number present
|-
| colspan="3" | Wright R-3350-57 18-cylinder || 4
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine characteristics
|-
! colspan="2" | Weight (each)
! colspan="1" | Type
! colspan="1" | Cooling
|-
| colspan="2" | 1,251 kg || Radial || Air
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine power (Stock)
|-
! colspan="2" | Max
! colspan="2" | Take-off
|-
| colspan="2" | 1,975 hp || colspan="2" | 2,276 hp
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine power (Upgraded)
|-
! colspan="2" | Max
! colspan="2" | Take-off
|-
| colspan="2" | 2,200 hp || colspan="2" | 2,502 hp
|-
|}

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


* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilots.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates in front of the pilots.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates behind the pilots.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates in front of tail control tractions.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates boxing around rear dorsal gunner and beam gunners.
* 6.5 mm Steel plate behind the rear ventral gunner.
* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front of tail gunner.
* 6.5 mm Steel plate in front of tail gunner.

The B-29A-BN had to be judicious when it came to providing protecting armour for the aircrew at the sacrifice of additional fuel or ordnance. In fact, later models removed many of their defensive turrets in order to allow for more fuel and ordnance to be loaded. It is obvious that an aircraft this size will be a huge target for enemy fighters to attack with the nose section (cockpit) and the tail turret being the two most likely targets (head-on attack and tail approach attack) and thus both areas were outfitted with 60 mm bulletproof glass which helps against lower calibre weapons, however 20 mm and above make short work of the bulletproof glass. 6.5 mm steel plates are scattered around the aircraft to provide protection for both the crew members and some of the control surface linkages. Though not a stop-all invincible shield for the crew, it many instances it provided enough protection to allow crew members to survive and fight another day.

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

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

[[File:B-29 meanswing 001.png|450px|thumb|right]]
{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)|AN-M56 (4,000 lb)}}

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

* 20 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (10,000 lb total)
* 18 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (18,000 lb total)
* 40 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (20,000 lb total)
* 8 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (16,000 lb total)
* 4 x 4,000 lb AN-M56 bombs (16,000 lb total)

<nowiki>*</nowiki> Note: A nuclear payload becomes available for the B-29 in Ground Arcade battles of BR 6.0 and higher. It consists of 1 nuclear bomb and is attainable after reaching 15 kills in the match.

One might say the B-29A-BN is effectively a dump truck which can dump a ton of explosives, no make that upwards of 10 tons of explosives upon enemy targets. Utilising speed at higher altitudes, it is the purpose of the Superfortress to race to an enemy base or ground targets and just rain down TNT. With three choices of bomb weights to choose from and four different configurations, there is no shortage of ways to destroy ground targets. The 1,000 lb and 2,000 lb bombs come in most handy for base bombing as they do the most amount of damage for the least amount of effort in a concentrated area. Area of denial is the speciality of the 500 lb bombs when used in carpet bombing operations. Carpet bombing is effectively laying down many of the 500 lb bombs at one time over an area where vehicles such as trucks, tanks and anti-aircraft vehicles or hardened structures such as pillboxes or anti-aircraft artillery may be located at. Since vehicles are on the move, dropping multiple bombs at a time making it more difficult for them to move out of the way and avoid the inbound ordnance.

With the B-29A-BN, there is no real overkill with the bombs, which can make the Superfortress a prime target to be eliminated early as with upwards of 20,000 lbs in bombs, the B-29A-BN can make short work of enemy bases and end the match earlier than most will expect.

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

[[File:B-29 your jacket 001.jpg|350px|thumb|right|A Bf 109 attempts to take on a B-29A-BN.]]
{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, front dorsal turret (1,000 rpg = 4,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, front ventral turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, rear dorsal turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, rear ventral turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, tail turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

The B-29A-BN is defended by an impressive 12 x .50 calibre Browning machine guns rivalled only by the Blohm & Voss [[BV 238]], Tupolev [[Tu-4]], Consolidated [[PB4Y-2]] and [[B-24D-25-CO|B-24]] and the Boeing [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]]. Typically when bombers add more guns, they had to add more crew to operate them which increased the overall weight of the aircraft, though ensuring more protection, it also reduced the amount of fuel or bombs which could be carried.

As a historical note, the advent of early analogue computers which were outfitted on the B-29A-BN and the state-of-the-art General Electric Central Fire Control System allowed for remote operation of both dorsal and both ventral turrets along with the tail gun if needed. The turrets could be linked through the fire control system and allow one gunner to operate multiple guns at one time. Simplifying this process and allowing gunners from just about anywhere on the aircraft to control the turrets reduced the number of crew members needed to operate the aircraft. Though four times the size of a B-25, the B-29A-BN operated efficiently on the same amount of crew members, seven.

The computer-aided turrets allowed for more accuracy when firing and can train the guns in just about any direction needed to combat incoming fighters. The tail gunner position is especially deadly as a fighter perched on the tail will be flying into the oncoming bullets from the tail gun position, thereby taking more damage when hit and more likely to take on a critical hit or disabling blow. Though not totally invulnerable to the crafty fighter pilot, the B-29 in its own right is a porcupine with sharp quills pointing in all directions which will make it as difficult as possible for anyone to get past the defences.

== Usage in battles ==


The ultimate strategic bomber for the [[:Category:USA_aircraft|USAF]]. Loaded up with eight metric tonnes of bombs and twelve good ol' Browning heavy machine guns, this is the Superfortress. A wonderful advertising name, but don't be fooled, it is bigger than a barn and thus impossible to miss. Keep a safe distance from any hot combat zones. Your defensive turrets will not keep you safe, they will shred any foe getting close, but the B-29's enemies do not need to. So concentrate on what this plane is good at; delivering payload, and lots of it.

Once your bombing run is complete, start descending towards your airfield; enemy fighters might be trying to find you so you should be even more alert now than before. The B-29 has one of the most powerful defensive systems installed on any bomber, so you should be able to defend yourself reasonably well unless it is a head-on attack where you will have very limited protection. You must also combine it with a defensive style of flying to utilise it to its full potential; the B-29 offers great handling for its size. Despite this, be very careful when you enter a dive. It is just as prone as any other aircraft to suffering structural damage if its limitations are exceeded.

Great defensive armament will destroy most enemies that do get close. Being able to point at least four fifty-calibre in every direction and about six to the rear position will deal with any fighter quickly. But do not forget the size of the Fortress. Most of the enemies shells will hit some mark.

Of course, bomb load is very good with the B-29, with its historic performance as one of the best American bomber in service. Up to 8 x 2,000 lb could be carried in the bomb bay

;<nowiki>"Hit-and-Run" tactic:</nowiki>

Another way the B-29 can be played is in a "hit and run" tactic. At its BR, the B-29A-BN will face mostly jets, so climbing to a very high altitude sometime wouldn't work because the jets will be able to catch up quickly. The "hit and run" tactic is very risky, but it can be very enjoyable, and if it works then you can end the game in 15 minutes. Since the match will start with the B-29 spawning in at about 4,500 m (15,000 ft), go into a shallow dive and maintain speed about 450 km/h (270 mph). Dive towards an altitude of around 3,000 m (9,800 ft) so that enemy anti-aircraft positions do not fire at the B-29, which may expose it to other enemy fighters. Do not head directly to an enemy base, instead go around 10-20 degrees off course towards the base direction so that the enemy can't easily find the B-29 from tracing a line between the friendly spawn point to their base. If present, use clouds to obscure the B-29's profile in the skies.

From here, the enemy jets' behavior will decide if this tactic will work or not. Typically, the enemy would be divided between the planes attacking ground targets at low altitude, far from a bomber's path to a base, or planes climbing to high altitudes for energy fighting and searching for high-altitude bombers. The intent of the dive to ~2,000 m and the 450 km/h speed is to squeeze in between the ground attackers and interceptors and pass by undetected. If everything goes right, the B-29 should be able to reach its first base unimpeded without any fighters in pursuit, which can allow a B-29 the opportunity to knock out three or four bases before enemy fighters become alerted toward the B-29 precise location. From that point, the B-29 can either attempt to use the rest of its payload against the enemy airfield (unadvised as the low-altitude run exposes the B-29 to the anti-aircraft guns at the airfield) or return back to base triumphantly awaiting a bomb reload.

Due to this tactic hinging only on the success of slipping through the enemies undetected, this tactic should not be relied if there are no clouds for concealment, the match is an uptier against more advanced jets, or if the player is not able to sustain the repair costs of a damaged B-29.

;<nowiki>Close Air Support:</nowiki>

The B-29 can be situationally good as a close air support bomber. It should not be spawned when there are more than one or two enemy planes up, and also when uptiered as radar-guided SPAA will often destroy you before reaching the battlefield. It is best either early in the match, where lots of players are close together and enemy planes have not spawned yet, or later in the match if your team has air superiority. To get the most enemies at once, load the 4,000 lb bombs instead of the smaller bombs as they have a very large blast radius (larger than the FAB-3000). Spawn in and immediatly cut throttle and point the nose down to lose altitude. Bombing from high altitude can work sometimes but won't net enemy targets reliably. Keep diving until at an altitude of 900-1,200 meters, and look for markers from teammates or cap points changing hands to drop a bomb on. If no markers are avalible, fly around the battlefield until one appears or try to spot targets yourself. To make small adjustments, use your yaw keys instead of turning. After doing a bombing run, keep flying for some time to give yourself plenty of room to turn. The B-29 in a CAS role is high risk, high reward, and there are times where the plane will get shot down before getting bombs off, but also times where the B-29 pilot can score multiple targets in one go.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable 1 gear || Auto controlled
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===

[[File:B-29 kohler 001.png|350px|thumb|right|B-29A-BN's cockpit crew during a turn]]

'''Pros:'''

* Very heavy payload
* Stock bomb load is able to destroy bases with one payload in arcade and up to two bases in realistic/simulator battles
* Can be difficult for fighters to reach same cruising altitude, even for jets
* Effective defensive turrets which virtually have no blind spots
* Fast for its size
* Virtually immune to small arms machine gunfire
* Receives air start after repairing/rearming in an airfield
* All payload options are internal and have next to no effect on flight performance
* Gunners are located separately from the gun turret (remote-controlled turrets) with the exception of the tail turret
* Can easily win a match if allowed to reach optimal bombing altitude

'''Cons:'''

* Easily susceptible to damage from autocannons larger than 20 mm especially the [[MK 108 (30 mm)|30 mm MK 108]]
* Unable to reliably defend itself from multiple opponents attacking at once from multiple directions
* Big size, can easily be spotted from long distances, especially with skilled crews
* Has a low dive top-speed
* As with all heavy bombers, it lacks the ability to maneuver well
* Takes a while to reach an optimal altitude
* Landing gear takes a long time to deploy and retract
* Wings are considered weak spots
* Will face jets most of the time
* Low flap deployment max speed
* Does not have the realistic bombing radar

== History ==


The B-29 was one of the largest aircraft used during World War II. It was exclusively used in the Pacific Theatre during the war and participated in bombing raids on multiple islands in the Pacific war. The B-29 became the world's first and only nuclear-capable bomber to deliver weapons during wartime when on August 6th, 1945 the B-29 Enola Gay dropped the atomic bomb known as "Little Boy" on Hiroshima, Japan. Three days later, the B-29 Bockscar dropped the second atomic bomb "Fat Man" on Nagasaki, Japan.

During the Second World War, its only area of operations was the Pacific Theater specifically targeting the Japanese mainland. It also saw combat service in the Korean War a small group of loaned aircraft were evaluated by the R.A.F during the early 1950's as well. In British service, they were known as the "Washington B Mk. 1".

During World War 2, the B-29 completed over 20,000 sorties with an estimated 180,000 tons of bombs dropped, as well as two atomic bombs. A total number of 3,970 were built and delivered to the USAAF. Perhaps the most famous "copy" of the war was the Tu-4. Although outwardly looking identical, this Soviet "B-29" was converted to metric making it unique. Other aircraft derived from the B-29 include the B-50, C-97, KC-97, 377 Stratocruiser, and NASA's own Guppy cargo carriers.<ref name="Vehicle Profile WT forum">Excerpts from [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/292156-profile-b-29-superfortress/ Profile B-29 Superfortress], no Author mentioned.</ref>

The B-29 post-war also helped in the scientific, research, and development fields. They would play a key role in hurricane hunting and storm chasing which allowed it to collect key information about storm patterns, and helped to improve and to develop new radar systems such as the "sun tracker". It was also the aircraft that carried the supersonic test aircraft Bell X-1 into the air. The last American B-29 squadron was retired in the 1960s. Today one called "Fifi" still flies at air show circuits. It was joined by another named "Doc" in 2016.<ref name="Vehicle Profile WT forum" />

{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
An all-metal monoplane with a retractable landing gear system including a nosewheel. The crew consisted of 14 persons. Distinctive features of the Superfortress included a pressurized cockpit for the crew and a Central Fire Control system for the defensive armament.

The B-29 (Model 345) was developed by the Boeing Aircraft design department in early 1940. The XB-29 prototype model performed its maiden flight on September 21, 1942. Full-scale production of the aircraft was started in June 1943.

B-29s had Wright R-3350-23 eighteen-cylinder, radial air-cooled engines producing a maximum power of 2,200 hp, with four-bladed automatic propellers.

The defensive armament of the Superfortress included four remotely controlled turrets: two below the fuselage and two above. Each turret housed two 12.7 mm Colt-Browning M2.5 machine guns with 500-1,000 rounds each. Some aircraft had an upper front turret equipped with four machine guns. All weapons were aimed at the target from three sighting stations located in blisters and from the bombardier's station.

Three armament options were available for the rear mount, controlled by an independent air gunner: a 20 mm Hispano-Bendix AN-M2 cannon and two 12.7 mm Colt-Browning M2.5 machine guns, three 12.7 mm machine guns, or two 12.7 mm machine guns.

A bomb load of up to 9,000 kg was housed in two bomb bays, where cluster racks were mounted.

The B-29 was equipped with a large amount of radio equipment for various purposes. Its large bomb capacity, powerful and effective defensive armament, and state-of-the-art equipment would have turned the Superfortress into the best heavy bomber of World War II if not for engine breakdowns that continually plagued the aircraft. For one whole year, up to the middle of 1944, the bomber's performance was hampered by a high accident rate. It was only by the end of the summer of 1944 that efforts to improve the fire-prone engines were relatively successful, but the problem was never entirely eradicated.

B-29s were used exclusively in the Pacific theater of the war. Superfortresses were used in combat for the first time on June 5, 1944 during the raid on Bangkok. On June 14, 1944, American bombers attacked the territory of Japan for the first time. Military and industrial facilities in Sasebo, Nagasaki, Omura and Yawata were regularly attacked. In August 1944, B-29s began to bomb oil refineries on the island of Sumatra.

The B-29s were flown out of China until December 1944, when they were relocated to India. Their targets were docks in Singapore, ports in Indochina, and rail junctions in Burma. B-29s also mined rivers in China and the coastal waters of Vietnam and Malaya from the air.

In October 1944, B-29s began carrying out massive attacks on Japan from the Mariana Islands. During the war, these aircraft dropped 54,917 tons of high-explosive bombs and 109,068 tons of incendiary bombs on Japan and delivered 12,000 naval mines. The B-29 became the world's first nuclear weapon carrier when it dropped nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

From 1950-53, B-29 bombers took part in the Korean War. From 1950-55, the aircraft was operated by the RAF Bomber Command under the designation "Washington B.1".

A total of 3,947 B-29s were manufactured, including all variants. The plane was withdrawn from service as a bomber with the USA in late 1954.
{{Navigation-End}}
[[File:B-29 tay777 001.png|600px|thumb|center|]]

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b-29 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="150">
File:B-29 kawashima momo 002.png
File:B-29 th fegel team 001.png
File:B-29 kawashima momo 003.png
File:B-29A-BN releasing Mark 6 nuclear bomb.png
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|8Yewf7LXfUU|'''WT - B-29 - Punished for not Scumbagging''' - ''NapalmRatte''|gxIVvUZGptw|'''The Shooting Range #51''' - ''Special'' section at 00:29 discusses the B-29 & Tu-4.|3Ut75XHCWgk|'''Realistic: B-29A-BN Superfortress [Grace]''' - ''Jengar''}}

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Heinkel [[He 177 A-5]]
* Tupolev [[Tu-4]]
* Nakajima [[G8N1]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/3507--en|[Profile] B-29 Superfortress]]
* [[Wikipedia:Boeing_B-29_Superfortress|[Wikipedia] B-29 Superfortress]]
* [https://www.boeing.com/history/products/b-29-superfortress.page <nowiki>[Boeing.com]</nowiki> B-29 Superfortress History Page]
* [https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=82 <nowiki>[Militaryfactory.com]</nowiki> Boeing B-29 Superfortress - Strategic High-Altitude Long-Range Heavy Bomber Aircraft]

=== References ===
<references />

{{AirManufacturer Boeing}}
{{USA bombers}}

B-29A-BN

2024-03-18T22:22:51Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American heavy bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = B-29/Tu-4 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b-29
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

In the few years leading up to World War II, the United States Army Air Corps (USAAC) realized that its current primary heavy bomber, the [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]] would not have the range nor the payload to efficiently transit what would end up becoming the Pacific Theater. To compensate for this, Boeing began to develop a prototype which would incorporate a pressurized cabin to allow for higher altitude flying, which would help to protect the bomber from Japanese fighters which struggled to get to the higher altitudes.
[[File:B-29 kawashima momo 001.png|350px|thumb|left|A view of the B-29's cockpit.]]
The resulting XB-29 prototype and the later production series B-29 bomber had everything the USAAC was looking for: high-pressured cockpit, a maximum altitude of almost 9,750 m (32,000 ft), true airspeed around 600 km/h (372 mph), and the ability to carry a massive payload of bombs upwards of 9,000 kg (20,000 lbs) in total. Defensive positions on the B-29 were well-placed to ensure maximum coverage surrounding the bomber. This bomber was one of the first aircraft to be fitted with the General Electric Central Fire Control system which could be used to remotely control four of the remotely controlled turrets (two dorsal and two ventral), though in their early stages, this aircraft's turrets each also had a General Electric analogue computer linked to it allowing the weapons to be more accurate by automatically factoring in airspeed, gravity, temperature, and lead time for the inbound aircraft. With this setup, these turrets could be controlled from the nose, tail or any of the three mid-fuselage positions and a single gunner could actually control more than one turret at a time increasing the effectiveness and lethality of the bomber's defences. Bristling with 12 x M2 Browning machine guns, the B-29A-BN was extremely difficult to approach, let alone make a successful pass and leave untouched.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]]. Unlike other bombers which can take on a secondary role as a pseudo-attacker, the B-29A-BN is a bomber, period. The sole purpose of the B-29 is to beat ground targets into submission either with upwards of 40 x 500 lb bombs, 18 x 1,000 lb bombs, 8 x 2,000 lb bombs or 4 x 4,000 lb bombs. The larger 1,000, 2,000 and 4000 lb bombs are perfect for base bombing while the relatively smaller 500 lb bombs make the perfect tool for carpet bombing where vehicles, pillboxes or anti-aircraft artillery may be clustered together. The B-29A-BN is an aerial beast which can drop a beastly amount of explosive ordnance, rivalled by few, but is not immune to enemy fighters. Altitude is this bomber's friend and when achieved can be a safer haven from which to rain down explosives on enemy bases or vehicles. Any opponents that persist in attempting to intercept the B-29 can be easily taken care of by the large complement of defensive .50 cal machine guns, with excellent rate of fire, ammunition capacity, and coverage.

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

[[File:B-29 jonigustavo 001.png|300px|thumb|right]]

The B-29A-BN, much like its contemporaries the Messerschmitt [[Me 264]], Blohm & Voss [[BV 238]] and Tupolev [[Tu-4]] was built for the sole purpose of flying high and dropping large amounts of bombs. To account for these characteristics, others such as manoeuvrability, climb rate and acceleration were compromised. The B-29 is a heavy aircraft which when adding 10,000 – 20,000 lbs of ordnance will only make the plane that much more difficult to get to altitude, but once there this aircraft does have a decent cruising speed. To help speed up gameplay for this aircraft, it is given an air-start at the beginning of matches and also after landing to reload and repair due to its sheer size and difficulty climbing to its bombing altitude.

The typical method of utilising this bomber is to fly the aircraft to a higher altitude. Depending on the enemy fighters, attackers and interceptors which appear in the match, you may be able to stay lower around 6,000 m (20,000 ft) or you may need to increase closer to 9,150 m (30,000 ft) to make it extremely difficult for the fighters to follow you up and many if they do get that high, their engines are struggling to keep the plane above stall speed which provides you with the opportunity to leave them behind or to easily pick them off with your gunners.

One downside to flying at the higher altitudes in arcade battles is that if you bomb a base but don't completely destroy it, it is difficult to circle back around and bomb again when the bombs have reloaded. A wide circle is necessary to accomplish this and it may be better and more efficient instead to fly towards another base, bomb it and turn around and finish off the first base. Another option too is to leave the partially bombed bases for the smaller and slower bombers on your team to finish off or just catch the partially bombed bases on a return pass.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 9,100 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
| 615 || 603 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 33.2 || 34.4 || 4.1 || 4.1 || rowspan="2" | 1,500
|-
! Upgraded
| 669 || 641 || 30.7 || 32.0 || 11.7 || 6.5
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 609  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 332 || 322 || 270 || ~4 || ~2
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 340 || < 350 || < 290 || > 400
|-
|}

====Engine performance====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine Name
! colspan="3" | Number present
|-
| colspan="3" | Wright R-3350-57 18-cylinder || 4
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine characteristics
|-
! colspan="2" | Weight (each)
! colspan="1" | Type
! colspan="1" | Cooling
|-
| colspan="2" | 1,251 kg || Radial || Air
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine power (Stock)
|-
! colspan="2" | Max
! colspan="2" | Take-off
|-
| colspan="2" | 1,975 hp || colspan="2" | 2,276 hp
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine power (Upgraded)
|-
! colspan="2" | Max
! colspan="2" | Take-off
|-
| colspan="2" | 2,200 hp || colspan="2" | 2,502 hp
|-
|}

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


* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilots.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates in front of the pilots.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates behind the pilots.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates in front of tail control tractions.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates boxing around rear dorsal gunner and beam gunners.
* 6.5 mm Steel plate behind the rear ventral gunner.
* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front of tail gunner.
* 6.5 mm Steel plate in front of tail gunner.

The B-29A-BN had to be judicious when it came to providing protecting armour for the aircrew at the sacrifice of additional fuel or ordnance. In fact, later models removed many of their defensive turrets in order to allow for more fuel and ordnance to be loaded. It is obvious that an aircraft this size will be a huge target for enemy fighters to attack with the nose section (cockpit) and the tail turret being the two most likely targets (head-on attack and tail approach attack) and thus both areas were outfitted with 60 mm bulletproof glass which helps against lower calibre weapons, however 20 mm and above make short work of the bulletproof glass. 6.5 mm steel plates are scattered around the aircraft to provide protection for both the crew members and some of the control surface linkages. Though not a stop-all invincible shield for the crew, it many instances it provided enough protection to allow crew members to survive and fight another day.

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

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

[[File:B-29 meanswing 001.png|450px|thumb|right]]
{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)|AN-M56 (4,000 lb)}}

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

* 20 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (10,000 lb total)
* 18 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (18,000 lb total)
* 40 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (20,000 lb total)
* 8 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (16,000 lb total)
* 4 x 4,000 lb AN-M56 bombs (16,000 lb total)

<nowiki>*</nowiki> Note: A nuclear payload becomes available for the B-29 in Ground Arcade battles of BR 6.0 and higher. It consists of 1 nuclear bomb and is attainable after reaching 15 kills in the match.

One might say the B-29A-BN is effectively a dump truck which can dump a ton of explosives, no make that upwards of 10 tons of explosives upon enemy targets. Utilising speed at higher altitudes, it is the purpose of the Superfortress to race to an enemy base or ground targets and just rain down TNT. With three choices of bomb weights to choose from and four different configurations, there is no shortage of ways to destroy ground targets. The 1,000 lb and 2,000 lb bombs come in most handy for base bombing as they do the most amount of damage for the least amount of effort in a concentrated area. Area of denial is the speciality of the 500 lb bombs when used in carpet bombing operations. Carpet bombing is effectively laying down many of the 500 lb bombs at one time over an area where vehicles such as trucks, tanks and anti-aircraft vehicles or hardened structures such as pillboxes or anti-aircraft artillery may be located at. Since vehicles are on the move, dropping multiple bombs at a time making it more difficult for them to move out of the way and avoid the inbound ordnance.

With the B-29A-BN, there is no real overkill with the bombs, which can make the Superfortress a prime target to be eliminated early as with upwards of 20,000 lbs in bombs, the B-29A-BN can make short work of enemy bases and end the match earlier than most will expect.

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

[[File:B-29 your jacket 001.jpg|350px|thumb|right|A Bf 109 attempts to take on a B-29A-BN.]]
{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, front dorsal turret (1,000 rpg = 4,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, front ventral turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, rear dorsal turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, rear ventral turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, tail turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

The B-29A-BN is defended by an impressive 12 x .50 calibre Browning machine guns rivalled only by the Blohm & Voss [[BV 238]], Tupolev [[Tu-4]], Consolidated [[PB4Y-2]] and [[B-24D-25-CO|B-24]] and the Boeing [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]]. Typically when bombers add more guns, they had to add more crew to operate them which increased the overall weight of the aircraft, though ensuring more protection, it also reduced the amount of fuel or bombs which could be carried.

As a historical note, the advent of early analogue computers which were outfitted on the B-29A-BN and the state-of-the-art General Electric Central Fire Control System allowed for remote operation of both dorsal and both ventral turrets along with the tail gun if needed. The turrets could be linked through the fire control system and allow one gunner to operate multiple guns at one time. Simplifying this process and allowing gunners from just about anywhere on the aircraft to control the turrets reduced the number of crew members needed to operate the aircraft. Though four times the size of a B-25, the B-29A-BN operated efficiently on the same amount of crew members, seven.

The computer-aided turrets allowed for more accuracy when firing and can train the guns in just about any direction needed to combat incoming fighters. The tail gunner position is especially deadly as a fighter perched on the tail will be flying into the oncoming bullets from the tail gun position, thereby taking more damage when hit and more likely to take on a critical hit or disabling blow. Though not totally invulnerable to the crafty fighter pilot, the B-29 in its own right is a porcupine with sharp quills pointing in all directions which will make it as difficult as possible for anyone to get past the defences.

== Usage in battles ==


The ultimate strategic bomber for the [[:Category:USA_aircraft|USAF]]. Loaded up with eight metric tonnes of bombs and twelve good ol' Browning heavy machine guns, this is the Superfortress. A wonderful advertising name, but don't be fooled, it is bigger than a barn and thus impossible to miss. Keep a safe distance from any hot combat zones. Your defensive turrets will not keep you safe, they will shred any foe getting close, but the B-29's enemies do not need to. So concentrate on what this plane is good at; delivering payload, and lots of it.

Once your bombing run is complete, start descending towards your airfield; enemy fighters might be trying to find you so you should be even more alert now than before. The B-29 has one of the most powerful defensive systems installed on any bomber, so you should be able to defend yourself reasonably well unless it is a head-on attack where you will have very limited protection. You must also combine it with a defensive style of flying to utilise it to its full potential; the B-29 offers great handling for its size. Despite this, be very careful when you enter a dive. It is just as prone as any other aircraft to suffering structural damage if its limitations are exceeded.

Great defensive armament will destroy most enemies that do get close. Being able to point at least four fifty-calibre in every direction and about six to the rear position will deal with any fighter quickly. But do not forget the size of the Fortress. Most of the enemies shells will hit some mark.

Of course, bomb load is very good with the B-29, with its historic performance as one of the best American bomber in service. Up to 8 x 2,000 lb could be carried in the bomb bay

;<nowiki>"Hit-and-Run" tactic:</nowiki>

Another way the B-29 can be played is in a "hit and run" tactic. At its BR, the B-29A-BN will face mostly jets, so climbing to a very high altitude sometime wouldn't work because the jets will be able to catch up quickly. The "hit and run" tactic is very risky, but it can be very enjoyable, and if it works then you can end the game in 15 minutes. Since the match will start with the B-29 spawning in at about 4,500 m (15,000 ft), go into a shallow dive and maintain speed about 450 km/h (270 mph). Dive towards an altitude of around 3,000 m (9,800 ft) so that enemy anti-aircraft positions do not fire at the B-29, which may expose it to other enemy fighters. Do not head directly to an enemy base, instead go around 10-20 degrees off course towards the base direction so that the enemy can't easily find the B-29 from tracing a line between the friendly spawn point to their base. If present, use clouds to obscure the B-29's profile in the skies.

From here, the enemy jets' behavior will decide if this tactic will work or not. Typically, the enemy would be divided between the planes attacking ground targets at low altitude, far from a bomber's path to a base, or planes climbing to high altitudes for energy fighting and searching for high-altitude bombers. The intent of the dive to ~2,000 m and the 450 km/h speed is to squeeze in between the ground attackers and interceptors and pass by undetected. If everything goes right, the B-29 should be able to reach its first base unimpeded without any fighters in pursuit, which can allow a B-29 the opportunity to knock out three or four bases before enemy fighters become alerted toward the B-29 precise location. From that point, the B-29 can either attempt to use the rest of its payload against the enemy airfield (unadvised as the low-altitude run exposes the B-29 to the anti-aircraft guns at the airfield) or return back to base triumphantly awaiting a bomb reload.

Due to this tactic hinging only on the success of slipping through the enemies undetected, this tactic should not be relied if there are no clouds for concealment, the match is an uptier against more advanced jets, or if the player is not able to sustain the repair costs of a damaged B-29.

;<nowiki>Close Air Support:</nowiki>

The B-29 can be situationally good as a close air support bomber. It should not be spawned when there are more than one or two enemy planes up, and also when uptiered as radar-guided SPAA will often destroy you before reaching the battlefield. It is best either early in the match, where lots of players are close together and enemy planes have not spawned yet, or later in the match if your team has air superiority. To get the most enemies at once, load the 4,000 lb bombs instead of the smaller bombs as they have a very large blast radius (larger than the FAB-3000). Spawn in and immediatly cut throttle and point the nose down to lose altitude. Bombing from high altitude can work sometimes but won't net enemy targets reliably. Keep diving until at an altitude of 900-1,200 meters, and look for markers from teammates or cap points changing hands to drop a bomb on. If no markers are avalible, fly around the battlefield until one appears or try to spot targets yourself. To make small adjustments, use your yaw keys instead of turning. After doing a bombing run, keep flying for some time to give yourself plenty of room to turn. The B-29 in a CAS role is high risk, high reward, and there are times where the plane will get shot down before getting bombs off, but also times where the B-29 pilot can score multiple targets in one go.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable 1 gear || Auto controlled
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===

[[File:B-29 kohler 001.png|350px|thumb|right|B-29A-BN's cockpit crew during a turn]]

'''Pros:'''

* Very heavy payload
* Stock bomb load is able to destroy bases with one payload in arcade and up to two bases in realistic/simulator battles
* Can be difficult for fighters to reach same cruising altitude, even for jets
* Effective defensive turrets which virtually have no blind spots
* Fast for its size
* Virtually immune to small arms machine gunfire
* Receives air start after repairing/rearming in an airfield
* All payload options are internal and have next to no effect on flight performance
* Gunners are located separately from the gun turret (remote-controlled turrets) with the exception of the tail turret
* Can easily win a match if allowed to reach optimal bombing altitude

'''Cons:'''

* Easily susceptible to damage from autocannons larger than 20 mm especially the [[MK 108 (30 mm)|30 mm MK 108]]
* Unable to reliably defend itself from multiple opponents attacking at once from multiple directions
* Big size, can easily be spotted from long distances, especially with skilled crews
* Has a low dive top-speed
* As with all heavy bombers, it lacks the ability to manoeuvre well
* Takes a while to reach an optimal altitude
* Landing gear takes a long time to deploy and retract
* Wings are considered weak spots
* Will face jets most of the time
* Low flap deployment max speed Does not have the realistic bombing radar

== History ==


The B-29 was one of the largest aircraft used during World War II. It was exclusively used in the Pacific Theatre during the war and participated in bombing raids on multiple islands in the Pacific war. The B-29 became the world's first and only nuclear-capable bomber to deliver weapons during wartime when on August 6th, 1945 the B-29 Enola Gay dropped the atomic bomb known as "Little Boy" on Hiroshima, Japan. Three days later, the B-29 Bockscar dropped the second atomic bomb "Fat Man" on Nagasaki, Japan.

During the Second World War, its only area of operations was the Pacific Theater specifically targeting the Japanese mainland. It also saw combat service in the Korean War a small group of loaned aircraft were evaluated by the R.A.F during the early 1950's as well. In British service, they were known as the "Washington B Mk. 1".

During World War 2, the B-29 completed over 20,000 sorties with an estimated 180,000 tons of bombs dropped, as well as two atomic bombs. A total number of 3,970 were built and delivered to the USAAF. Perhaps the most famous "copy" of the war was the Tu-4. Although outwardly looking identical, this Soviet "B-29" was converted to metric making it unique. Other aircraft derived from the B-29 include the B-50, C-97, KC-97, 377 Stratocruiser, and NASA's own Guppy cargo carriers.<ref name="Vehicle Profile WT forum">Excerpts from [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/292156-profile-b-29-superfortress/ Profile B-29 Superfortress], no Author mentioned.</ref>

The B-29 post-war also helped in the scientific, research, and development fields. They would play a key role in hurricane hunting and storm chasing which allowed it to collect key information about storm patterns, and helped to improve and to develop new radar systems such as the "sun tracker". It was also the aircraft that carried the supersonic test aircraft Bell X-1 into the air. The last American B-29 squadron was retired in the 1960s. Today one called "Fifi" still flies at air show circuits. It was joined by another named "Doc" in 2016.<ref name="Vehicle Profile WT forum" />

{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
An all-metal monoplane with a retractable landing gear system including a nosewheel. The crew consisted of 14 persons. Distinctive features of the Superfortress included a pressurized cockpit for the crew and a Central Fire Control system for the defensive armament.

The B-29 (Model 345) was developed by the Boeing Aircraft design department in early 1940. The XB-29 prototype model performed its maiden flight on September 21, 1942. Full-scale production of the aircraft was started in June 1943.

B-29s had Wright R-3350-23 eighteen-cylinder, radial air-cooled engines producing a maximum power of 2,200 hp, with four-bladed automatic propellers.

The defensive armament of the Superfortress included four remotely controlled turrets: two below the fuselage and two above. Each turret housed two 12.7 mm Colt-Browning M2.5 machine guns with 500-1,000 rounds each. Some aircraft had an upper front turret equipped with four machine guns. All weapons were aimed at the target from three sighting stations located in blisters and from the bombardier's station.

Three armament options were available for the rear mount, controlled by an independent air gunner: a 20 mm Hispano-Bendix AN-M2 cannon and two 12.7 mm Colt-Browning M2.5 machine guns, three 12.7 mm machine guns, or two 12.7 mm machine guns.

A bomb load of up to 9,000 kg was housed in two bomb bays, where cluster racks were mounted.

The B-29 was equipped with a large amount of radio equipment for various purposes. Its large bomb capacity, powerful and effective defensive armament, and state-of-the-art equipment would have turned the Superfortress into the best heavy bomber of World War II if not for engine breakdowns that continually plagued the aircraft. For one whole year, up to the middle of 1944, the bomber's performance was hampered by a high accident rate. It was only by the end of the summer of 1944 that efforts to improve the fire-prone engines were relatively successful, but the problem was never entirely eradicated.

B-29s were used exclusively in the Pacific theater of the war. Superfortresses were used in combat for the first time on June 5, 1944 during the raid on Bangkok. On June 14, 1944, American bombers attacked the territory of Japan for the first time. Military and industrial facilities in Sasebo, Nagasaki, Omura and Yawata were regularly attacked. In August 1944, B-29s began to bomb oil refineries on the island of Sumatra.

The B-29s were flown out of China until December 1944, when they were relocated to India. Their targets were docks in Singapore, ports in Indochina, and rail junctions in Burma. B-29s also mined rivers in China and the coastal waters of Vietnam and Malaya from the air.

In October 1944, B-29s began carrying out massive attacks on Japan from the Mariana Islands. During the war, these aircraft dropped 54,917 tons of high-explosive bombs and 109,068 tons of incendiary bombs on Japan and delivered 12,000 naval mines. The B-29 became the world's first nuclear weapon carrier when it dropped nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

From 1950-53, B-29 bombers took part in the Korean War. From 1950-55, the aircraft was operated by the RAF Bomber Command under the designation "Washington B.1".

A total of 3,947 B-29s were manufactured, including all variants. The plane was withdrawn from service as a bomber with the USA in late 1954.
{{Navigation-End}}
[[File:B-29 tay777 001.png|600px|thumb|center|]]

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b-29 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="150">
File:B-29 kawashima momo 002.png
File:B-29 th fegel team 001.png
File:B-29 kawashima momo 003.png
File:B-29A-BN releasing Mark 6 nuclear bomb.png
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|8Yewf7LXfUU|'''WT - B-29 - Punished for not Scumbagging''' - ''NapalmRatte''|gxIVvUZGptw|'''The Shooting Range #51''' - ''Special'' section at 00:29 discusses the B-29 & Tu-4.|3Ut75XHCWgk|'''Realistic: B-29A-BN Superfortress [Grace]''' - ''Jengar''}}

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Heinkel [[He 177 A-5]]
* Tupolev [[Tu-4]]
* Nakajima [[G8N1]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/3507--en|[Profile] B-29 Superfortress]]
* [[Wikipedia:Boeing_B-29_Superfortress|[Wikipedia] B-29 Superfortress]]
* [https://www.boeing.com/history/products/b-29-superfortress.page <nowiki>[Boeing.com]</nowiki> B-29 Superfortress History Page]
* [https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=82 <nowiki>[Militaryfactory.com]</nowiki> Boeing B-29 Superfortress - Strategic High-Altitude Long-Range Heavy Bomber Aircraft]

=== References ===
<references />

{{AirManufacturer Boeing}}
{{USA bombers}}

B-26B

2024-03-18T13:34:00Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the French version
| link = B-26C
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b_26b_c
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Wind of Change"]].

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 3,962 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
| 403 || 387 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.3 || 36.6 || 2.4 || 2.4 || rowspan="2" | 950
|-
! Upgraded
| 525 || 491 || 32.8 || 34.0 || 10.3 || 5.6
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 568  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 382 || 320 || 297 || ~8 || ~3
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 270 || < 320 || < 370 || > ___
|-
|}

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


* 12.7 mm steel - floor and port side of nose gunner/bombardier's position
* 8 mm steel - slightly curved armor plates behind flight deck seats (pilot, co-pilot, plus one unoccupied position that is presumably the navigator/radio operator's position)
* 9 mm steel - under main oil coolers in each engine nacelle
* 12.7 mm steel - under beam gunner
* 12.7 mm steel - two curved plates aft of dorsal turret
* 12.7 mm steel - aft of tail gunner
* 8 mm bulletproof glass - small window for tail gunner

There is basically no protection from the front for the flight crew, so while your offensive battery of five forward-firing M2 Brownings might make head-on attacks tempting, your pilots are shockingly vulnerable from that angle.

The four large self-sealing fuel tanks in the wings are relatively easy targets for enemy fighters, and your engines are also an easy target. To make matters worse, the B-26 had a reputation for being very challenging to keep in the air with only one engine. While the Marauder is often able to absorb a considerable amount of punishment, it is unlikely you'll make it alive back to base. Use your speed to keep pursuing fighters on your tail, where your relatively well protected defensive gunners can discourage pursuit.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, nose-mounted (200 rpg)
* 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, cheek-mounted (250 rpg upper + 200 rpg lower = 900 total)

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

{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)|H.E. M31 (300 lb)|H.E. M32 (600 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)}}
{{main|AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)|Mk.13-6 (2,216 lb)}}

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

* 30 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
* 14 x 300 lb H.E. M31 bombs (4,200 lb total)
* 8 x 600 lb H.E. M32 bombs (4,800 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 2 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (3,200 lb total)
* 1 x 2,216 lb Mk.13-6 torpedo

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, nose turret (270 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, dorsal turret (400 rpg = 800 total)
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (240 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, tail turret (800 rpg = 1,600 total)

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Not auto controlled || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Auto control available || Separate || Controllable 2 gears || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===

''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''

'''Pros:'''

Fighter planes will have trouble once you hit your max speed at your correct altitude

Anti-Tank bombs (AKA armor piercing bombs) are good for CAS uses

The 30x payload is good for strips of AAA and armored cars.

Front guns are good for taking out enemy bombers

Guns can fire the whole ammo pool with out jamming when upgraded

*

'''Cons:'''

The nose gunner isn't really reliable

One bomb load can really take care of one base

The front guns need to be angle up to be used

Front guns don't have API-T rounds

*

== History ==

The Martin B-26 medium bomber was submitted by the Glenn L. Martin company in 1939 to the same USAAC specification (Circular Proposal 39-640) as the North American B-25 Mitchell, and both were accepted off the drawing board. Unsurprisingly, the two airplanes share much in common: twin-engined medium bombers, similar in size, with similar offensive and defensive armament. Both saw service in all major theaters of the war, with both U.S. and allied forces.

What sets the B-26 Marauder apart is that it was designed for speed; designed around two massively powerful Pratt & Whitney R-2800 radial engines, its maximum speed is a full 10% faster than its slightly smaller and lighter B-25 counterpart. However, this speed came at a cost. With high wing loading and demanding flight characteristics, the B-26 was noticeably harder to fly than the Mitchell. This pilot skill differential, combined with the pressures of wartime training, led to a track record of deadly crashes early in the plane's history, gaining a reputation as a "widow maker".

Despite this unpromising start to its career, the B-26 Marauder racked up a solid combat record. Mostly deployed at medium altitude missions, it became known for accurate bombing, and by the end of the war, the U.S. 9th Air Force reported that the so-called "widow maker" recorded the lowest combat loss rate of any aircraft type.<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_B-26_Marauder</ref> One B-26, named "Flak Bait", survived over 200 missions and is on display at the Smithsonian Institution's Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center.<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flak-Bait</ref>

Although most of its combat flying was done in the European Theater of Operations, a notable early engagement in the Pacific was the sortie of four torpedo-equipped Marauders against the Japanese fleet during the Battle of Midway. None of the torpedoes hit, two of the planes were lost, and the other two returned so badly shot-up that they were written off. Over the fleet and pursued by Japanese A6M Zeroes, a B-26 named "Susie Q" actually overflew the length of the Akagi's flight deck at very low level, strafing the deck crew with its machine guns. Susie Q landed, just barely, back at Midway with over 500 bullet holes.<ref>https://www.pacificwar.org.au/Midway/USArmy_at_Midway.html</ref>

The in-game version represents the B-26B model after some modifications had been made, including lengthening the wings to improve (but not eliminate) the tricky handling characteristics. Most B-26 were built at the Glenn L. Martin plant in Baltimore, Maryland, but the essentially identical B-26C (found in the French tech tree) was built in Omaha, Nebraska. A total of 5,288 aircraft of all models were built between 1941 and 1945.<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_B-26_Marauder</ref>

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b_26b_c Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|K09goo8T4jM|'''The Shooting Range #345''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:46 discusses the B-26.}}

== 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/7577-development-b-26-marauder-into-the-fray-en|[Devblog] B-26 Marauder: Into the Fray]]

{{AirManufacturer Martin}}
{{USA bombers}}
<references />

F-80A-5

2024-03-15T22:46:52Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
|about= American jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage= the other version
|link= F-80C-10
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=f-80a
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
|cockpit=cockpit_f-80a.jpg
}}

== Description ==

The F-80 Shooting Star was an American straight-wing jet aircraft. It was the first American-designed jet fighter to enter service, and served for a short time in the Korean war before being replaced by the more capable F-86 Sabre. The aircraft was designed in just 143 days<ref name=":0">Dwyer, L (2002)</ref>, and as a result, suffered from many critical issues; the aircraft was responsible for the deaths of several test pilots, including [[Bong's P-38J-15|Richard Bong]], America's highest scoring WWII ace<ref name=":1">Agle, D (2014)</ref>. The aircraft, originally intended to fight the Me-262 over the skies of Europe, arrived too late to see service in the Second World War. However, the plane would go on to serve in the Korean War, where it was the first American jet to see combat.

It was introduced in [[Update 1.39]]. The plane was redesignated from the P-80A-5 to the F-80A-5 in [[Update 1.79 "Project X"]]. The main purpose of the F-80 is to teach a pilot how to fly jets in general. If a pilot is doing well in the F-80, they're ready to move to higher-ranked jets. Never give up your speed: it is the plane's insurance. Only trade it for the altitude in zoom climbs. Be careful that the jet is up-tiered quite a lot. When this happens, strictly adhere to the rules outlined in this article or you will be at a great disadvantage. One thing to take note of is the M2 Brownings. Sadly, they are insufficient for high-speed combat due to the low rate of fire and subsequently limited damage output; be aware, however, that they still pack a punch in partial head-ons with 262s, 229s, and the like. The issue is later on fixed with the [[Browning M3 (12.7 mm)|M3 Browning]] on the successor [[F-80C-10|F-80C ''Shooting Star'']], but the ammunition load still remains low, like on the [[P-51D-5|P-51D]]. As for piston planes: they are capable of setting enemy piston planes on fire in a short burst. All of the guns are mounted in the nose, making them deadly accurate when performing head-ons, especially once the "new 12 mm MGs" modification is installed. For ground attack, there is the usual complement of ordnance for the USAF: [[HVAR]] rockets and standard 1,000 lb bombs.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 0 m - sea level)
! 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
| 854 || 829 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.3 || 24.8 || 19.1 || 18.0 || rowspan="2" | 950
|-
! Upgraded
| 899 || 882 || 21.9 || 23.0 || 28.5 || 23.6
|-
|}

==== 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 535 || 505 || 360 || ~11 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 482 || < 600 || < 640 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | 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="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Allison J33-A-17 || 1
| colspan="2" | 4,093 kg || colspan="2" | 243 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel
|-
| 850 kg || colspan="2" | Centrifugal-flow turbojet
| 4,475 kg || 4,937 kg || 5,368 kg || 6,500 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="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 9m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 1,651 kgf || N/A
| 0.37 || 0.33 || 0.31 || 0.25
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 1,651 kgf (0 km/h) || N/A
| 0.37 || 0.33 || 0.31 || 0.25
|-
|}

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


* 10 mm Steel - Fore cockpit armour
* 12.7 mm Steel - Behind pilot's seat
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass

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

As with most early jets, the acceleration is sub-par, so Compressor and Engine should be focused on first, then a choice between Airframe, New Boosters or the Offensive 12 mm. Wings Repair is recommended to help with the F-80's average manoeuvrability. Afterwards, the G-Suit upgrade will come in handy. Fuselage Repair and Cover are not useful and can be ignored until the very end, although Airframe can be used to help the mediocre durability (the tail control will burn away instantly when you catch on fire unless you have Airframe).

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

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

* 6 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (300 rpg = 1,800 total)

The nose-mounted machine guns are set lower than wing-mounted weapons and require getting used to.

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

{{main|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|HVAR}}

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

* Without load
* 8 x HVAR rockets
* 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)

== Usage in battles ==


This F-80 must be flown strictly as Boom-and-Zoom, or Boom-and-Run. Anything else does not work due to the aircraft's inferior acceleration compared to props and some Axis jets at certain speeds. While its manoeuvring energy retention (MER) is relatively poor - as with most early jets - its vertical and horizontal energy retention (ER) is decent.

At the beginning of the match, the F-80 should climb away from the potential combat zone. Two climbs can be used; a standard steady-state climb, keeping the aircraft at a fixed angle or speed, optimally no greater than 10-12 degrees; or, ideally, a zoom climb. To accomplish this, take off, and away from the centre of the battlefield, as you would to start a normal side-climb. However, the Shooting Star should be kept relatively level, and an angle of no greater than 5-7 degrees should be maintained, preferably lower. To reach well over 3 km (10,000 ft), build your speed to approximately 800 km/h (500 mph), and only then place the F-80 in a 10–20-degree climb. If you need or want to get into the battle quicker, before you begin the zoom-climb, execute a diving turn towards the centre of the battlefield (to maintain as much of your built-up airspeed as possible), then put yourself into the zoom-climb (this is slightly riskier, as you'll be entering a low energy state as you enter the centre of the battlefield; if an enemy aircraft has managed to climb above you, this may leave you in a precarious position). To reach around 2,500-2,750 m (8,000-9,000 ft), reaching 485-540 km/h (300-400 mph) is ideal.

For ground strike, the F-80 is a decent aircraft, carrying the USAF standard of bombs, rockets, and ground attack belts. However, it is not recommended to hit ground targets, this is a fighter and not a lumbering attacker and should be used as an air-superiority fighter.

In air combat, the F-80 performs admirably if flown to its strengths, i.e. boom-and-zoom. Dive on enemy targets, take a shot, and then execute a shallow to medium zoom climb. While the six nose-mounted .50 calibre M2 Brownings are beginning to show their age, they are still more than equal to the task, especially at the F-80's BR. Early jet engines do not take kindly to any sort of damage, and a slew of .50 calibre rounds are more than enough to wreak havoc on small-to-medium airframes. While its biggest con is simply lacking the hitting power of HE-filled cannon rounds, the six HMGs have enough pros to make up for this shortcoming. First off, with some trigger discipline, a good marksman can down 4, or even 5 enemy aircraft, due to your relatively plentiful ammunition. Secondly, the high velocity of the rounds serves well with the increasing speeds of the jet age; Some cannon rounds can be difficult to hit fast-moving targets with due to their lower velocity. Lastly, all six guns are nose-mounted, packing the shot-grouping into a relatively small area. This means that a burst mass of 7.34 lbs or 3.3 kg per second can impact said relatively small area.

Utilizing its amazing boom and zoom capabilities, the F-80A-5 can easily outspeed enemy targets from the dive initiated, paired with its amazing energy retention, one can do very well in bringing down enemy aircraft. However, when at low speeds, the F-80 is in a dangerous position so one should pull off from an assault by zoom climbing back to a preferable altitude over the battle. One can dive back on the enemy when they are spread out, low and slow. Always remember to keep your speed up, as enemies close by can easily catch you off guard when attacking.

Tracer belts are an excellent choice. Although with the advent of jets, we see the introduction of all-metal airframes across nations, the fire-starting (and armour-piercing) ability of the M20 API-T round is still nothing to be trifled with. Tracers are inherently easier to aim, as well, and the penetration capability of the M20 API-T is only slightly less than that of the M2 AP round. The stealth belt is another good choice, with a 50/50 combination of M8 AP-I and M23 Incendiary rounds.

The F-80 is one of the fastest aircraft at its rank. However, due to its bad acceleration, it must maintain energy discipline. Hard turns are taboo due to its poor MER. One should turn to engage, not to follow. Opponents like the [[Ho 229 V3|Ho 229]] can potentially outrun the F-80. However, due to the F-80A-5's higher acceleration at 650-750 km/h IAS compared to a Horten, it is possible to keep up with one for a while.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great energy retention compared to piston planes and the Me 262 it commonly faces
* Great zoom climb capability compared to piston planes
* Higher top speed than any piston plane or early Axis jet
* M2 Browning machine guns have high muzzle velocity and carry a lot of ammo
* Can be used as CAS with its payload options
* Some match encounters will be nearly all prop planes

'''Cons:'''

* M2 Brownings offer limited damage output
* Four large fuel tanks on each wing
* Low minimum fuel capacity (only 8 minutes): carrying more fuel will hamper the plane's flight performance
* Roll rate locks up at about 500 km/h IAS
* Unfavourable matchmaking, will be regularly pitted against significantly faster Korean war jets

== History ==


====== Design and development ======
[[File:XP-80A Gray Ghost.jpg|thumb|XP-80A Prototype "Gray Ghost" in flight.]]
The F-80 Shooting Star was the product of a design project started in mid-1943. At the time, Lockheed had been asked to produce an aircraft using the de Havilland Halford jet engine, capable of fighting the Me 262 ''Schwalbe'' on more-than-equal terms. As a result, a production prototype (see photo) was developed in just 143 days. This was a huge feat, as the aircraft was a full-scale prototype with functional armament. The aircraft was produced in a large tent in complete secrecy, while the team responsible for its production would become the predecessor to Lockheed's famous 'Skunk Works'<ref name=":0" />.

Though the aircraft design was promising, it soon became evident that the aircraft's rushed development had led to a variety of design flaws. The aircraft was hypersensitive in pitch, had engine and flap issues, and even baked the pilot as the cockpit temperature rose to a sweltering 180 degrees Fahrenheit (82 degrees Celsius) during flight<ref name=":1" />. However, following a large funding boost, the major issues (including the cooked pilot) were solved. By late 1944, the P-80 program was a similar priority level as the B-29, and 1,000 aircraft had already been ordered. This massive rush resulted in many fatalities - Lockheed's chief test pilot was killed following an engine failure, while four additional pilots (including Major Richard Bong) were killed in various accidents. The rising number of fatalities brought the P-80 program to a halt - as a result, the aircraft was given a large number of safety modifications to improve its reliability in flight<ref name=":1" />. However, the biggest hit came in September of 1945, with the end of WWII. The USAF, looking to reduce costs, cut the total orders from 5,000 to 2,000. Nevertheless, the P-80 entered production.

====== Production and service history ======
The first pre-production YP-80 aircraft were ready just before the end of the war, but failed to see operational service. However, nearly 1,700 P-80s were produced between 1946 and 1948, 924 being of the P-80A and P-80B variants. These aircraft had been re-engined with the Allison J-33, producing more power thus increasing the aircraft's combat capabilities. Starting from 1947 following the separation of the USAF, the P-80 was renamed the F-80 in accordance to new designation guidelines<ref name=":0" />.

The newly-introduced aircraft soon began to set records. In 1946, the aircraft became the first jet to cross the continental United States, from Long Beach to New York. In 1947, a specially modified F-80 set a new aviation speed record of 1,002 km/h (623 mph), which it held for a very short duration of time<ref>Roblin, S (2019)</ref>.

The F-80A had a short service life, having been replaced by newer F-80B and F-80C aircraft. As a result, the F-80A variants would never see combat, having been relegated to advanced training roles before the start of the Korean War. The F-80C was luckier, and saw combat over the Korean Peninsula as a fighter-bomber. By the end of the Korean war, the F-80 had flown almost 100 thousand sorties, dropped 41 thousand tonnes of bombs and destroyed 58 aircraft<ref name=":1" />. Quite an impressive track record for an aircraft built in a circus tent.

{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
An all-metal, single-seat fighter-bomber with one turbojet engine. The aircraft was created by a group of Lockheed engineers (headed by Clarence "Kelly" Johnson) in only 143 days.

The first flight of the XP-80 prototype was performed in January 1944. The first production version, designated the P-80A Shooting Star, entered service in 1946. The P-80 became the first combat-capable jet aircraft to enter service with the USAAF.

1947 saw the appearance of the next production version of the aircraft, the P-80B. The ninth production P-80A-1 was converted to a new prototype, designated the XP-80B. It had an Allison J33-A-17 turbojet engine producing 1,816 kg of thrust, equipped with a methanol-water injection system. The airfoil was thinner, but the skin's thickness was increased. To install a water mixture tank, the plane's fuel quantity had to be sacrificed by reducing it from 1,781 to 1,610 litres. The aircraft also received a Lockheed-designed ejection seat and a cockpit air-conditioning system.

The plane's armament consisted of six 12.7 mm Colt-Browning M3 machine guns with 300 rounds each in the forward fuselage. One 1,000 lb (454 kg) bomb or ten 5-inch (127 mm) unguided HVAR missiles could be suspended under each wing panel.

A total of 240 P-80B fighter-bombers were built from March 1947 to March 1948, including P-80B-1s and 31 P-80B-5s. The B-5 variant was intended to be operated in Arctic conditions; its heated canopy prevented icing. In addition, special types of oil and special rubber were used to operate the aircraft in low temperature conditions.

At least five P-80Bs were equipped with a guidance system for Bell GAM-63 RASCAL air-to-surface missiles. Externally, these aircraft differed in the shape of the forward fuselage and the wing-mounted tanks. Also, they were fitted with extra spoilers on the upper and lower wing surfaces.

In June 1948, when the US military aircraft designation system was changed, the P-80B was renamed to the F-80B.

When the Korean War started, F-80Bs were stationed in the USA and in Europe, being used by the USAAF mainly for training purposes. Later, 117 F-80Bs were brought up to the F-80C's standards and re-designated "F-80C-12". The remaining F-80Bs were withdrawn from service by the end of 1951.
{{Navigation-End}}

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f-80a Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|B672AA1OR-A|'''The Wonderful Shooting Star! F-80A-5 - USA''' - ''Jengar''|lyVSK_mI9T8|'''F-80A-5 Shooting Star (The Wishing Well!)''' - ''Jengar''|1PkB1QZDZT8|'''War Thunder F-80A-5 - Wingbreaker''' - ''Adam514''|yZsd7JhoRWk|'''RB Gameplay - P-80A-5 - Early Jet Tutorial!''' - ''theOrangeDoom''}}

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Bell [[P-59A|P-59]] Airacomet
* de Havilland [[Vampire FB 5|Vampire]]
* Gloster [[Meteor (Family)|Meteor]]
* Messerschmitt [[Me 262 (Family)|Me 262]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-9]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-23]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/264990-lockheed-p-80a-5/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

===References===

;Citations
<references />

;Bibliography

* Dwyer, L. (2002, June 3). P-80 Shooting Star. Retrieved November 13, 2020, from [http://www.aviation-history.com/lockheed/p80.html Website]
* Agle, D. (2014, September 24). Shooting Star. Retrieved November 13, 2020, from [https://www.airspacemag.com/history-of-flight/shooting-star-180952799/?page=3 Website]
* Roblin, S. (2019, January 03). Meet the F-80 Shooting Star: The First U.S. Jet Fighter That Went to War Against North Korea. Retrieved November 13, 2020, from [https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/meet-f-80-shooting-star-first-us-jet-fighter-went-war-against-north-korea-40417 Website]

{{AirManufacturer Lockheed}}
{{USA jet aircraft}}

B-17G-60-VE

2024-03-15T22:43:43Z

U140753025:

{{About
| about = American bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = B-17 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b-17g
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==


The '''Boeing B-17G''' is the main serial production variant of the famous "Flying Fortress" first produced in 1943. Using lessons learned from operating the previous [[B-17E]]/F models, several changes were made on the G model, with some carried from the troublesome F model. This include a pressurised cabin, the addition of a chin remote-controlled turret and improved cheek turret mount to counter frontal engagements, moving the right waist gunner position towards to front to increase the overall coverage, improved superchargers for high-altitude operation, and receiving the "Cheyenne" tail turret which increased protection and the field of fire for the tail gunner. Around 8,680 B-17Gs were built, with several airframes being converted as a testbed for various projects.

Being in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. The '''B-17G Flying Fortress''', as the name suggests, is intended to be used as a high-altitude level bomber, designed to target enemy airfields and military bases. Compared to the early [[B-17E]] models, the B-17G is noticeably faster thanks to improved superchargers, allowing it to climb better and further at higher altitudes. The B-17G's defensive capabilities is also improved, with an addition of chin turret and revised gunner positions that effectively eliminating every blind spots around the plane. In addition, the B-17G also has an access to extra wing hardpoints that allowed it to carry an extra pair of 1,000 lb and 2,000 lb bombs. All of this allowed the B-17G to perform the same job that the B-17E excels at even better than before; destroying ground targets while evading most enemy using altitude advantage, and giving a tough fight to anyone who manages to reach it. However, the B-17G still retains the critical weakness of the "Flying Fortress" family, namely its relatively weak tail, excessive wing loading that restrict its manoeverability, and its tendency to catch fire.

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

As with earlier B-17 models, the B-17G's flight performance is nothing to write home about. The plane is quite slow to move around at higher speeds and suffers from excessive wing loading that prevents it from doing most aerobatic manoeuvres outside of Arcade mode. While the B-17G's top speed is decent for a heavy bomber, it is still quite slow compared to other fighters at its BR, which means the B-17G will not outrun any fighters or interceptors unless it has an altitude advantage.

Speaking about altitude, the B-17G gets a long range bomber spawn. When combined with the plane's improved higher altitude performance, the B-17G can climb up to a safer altitude from most fighters except some dedicated interceptors, thus allowing the B-17G to reach its target and safely drop its payload as long as the plane is not spotted or is far enough from most enemies.

Like the previous B-17 models, the B-17G has a great flight endurance. The plane is capable of flying even if two engines were disabled and it remains responsive even when its airframes and ailerons were damaged, so long as your tail or wingtips were not destroyed. And thus increases the chance of returning to the base after combat.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 7,680 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
| 492 || 476 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 37.2 || 38.2 || 2.2 || 2.2 || rowspan="2" | 600
|-
! Upgraded
| 535 || 510 || 34.9 || 36.0 || 7.7 || 4.6
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 516  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 383 || 361 || 249 || ~2 || ~1
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 330 || < 310 || < 270 || > 300
|-
|}

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


* 6.35 mm Steel - Lower nose armour plate
* 6.35 mm Steel - Back of pilot and co-pilot's seats
* 6.35 mm Steel - Dorsal turret gunner protective plate
* 6.35 mm Steel - Radio operator protective plate
* 6.35 mm Steel - Beam gunner protective armour x 2
* 6.35 mm Steel - Tail gunner protective plate
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Ball turret
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Tail gunner rear window

Like the previous B-17 models, the B-17G is a very tough nut to crack. The airframe is clad with several layers of armour protecting the pilots and gunner, and the airframe itself can take a lot of punishments even from 20 mm autocannons.

However, the B-17G still retains the same weakness at the wingtips and tail that can be relatively easy to destroy and effectively guaranteed a crash if that was the case. The B-17G's huge fuel tanks inside the wings is also very vulnerable to fire damage, though you can potentially put if off before it destroy your plane by turn off your engines and use the EFS system.

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

This slow and lumbering heavy bomber relies entirely on its turrets for defence. Without it, the plane is target practice. Thus "Protective vests" should be the first unlock. Further survivability upgrades will make the fight easier, but do not think it will successfully face-off against enemy fighters. So upgrading the bomb payloads should be second priority. Performance modules can be considered the least necessary.

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

{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|A.P. AN-MK 33 (1,000 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)}}

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

* 8 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 12 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (3,200 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb A.P. AN-MK 33 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 6 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 2 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 8 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (8,000 lb total)

While the most efficient payload weight-to-explosive wise is the 12 x 500 lb bombs, the B-17G has an option to equip an extra pair of 1,000 lb and 2,000 lb bombs on an external hardpoint below the wing root, thus increasing its capability against a group of ground targets or naval targets.

The B-17G also has an option to use an AP bombs, though due to the poor manoeability of the plane, it would be nearly impossible to hit any ground or naval target using these bombs, so it is advised to use the high explosive bombs instead.

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, chin turret (400 rpg = 800 total)
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, 2 x cheek turrets (300 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, front dorsal turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, rear dorsal turret (500 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, ventral turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (600 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, tail turret (575 rpg = 1,150 total)

The B-17G has 13 x .50 Browning machine guns as its defensive armaments, all guns has a large amount of ammo available, and thus allowed you to spray it at any incoming enemy as you please, so long as you didn't hold the fire for several seconds and jam it. The Browning MG is also quite accurate, with a kill being achievable even from 1.75 km away. This means you can effectively deter the enemy from chasing you by firing at them at long ranges, potentially damage their engine and force them to retreat or even get a kill.

Compared to the B-17E, the B-17G has improved defensive gun arrangements, most notably the addition of a chin turret and an upgraded tail turret. With revised waist position, the B-17G can get more guns onto its tail and offers more coverage from sides and below, thus covered all the blindspots of the B-17E varaint. While the improved cheek gun mounts and chin turret offers more defense from frontal engagements, facing the enemy head-ons are still ill-advised as the cockpit lacks any armoured glass to protect the pilots and gunners. Thus, like the previous B-17E, you should face your tail at the enemy at all times to maximize your damage output.

Much like the [[B-17E/L|late war B-17E]], the B-17G has an access to the "late war" ammo belt, which swap the plain tracer shell with the dreaded M20 API-T shell. This means the B-17G has a better chance of lighting the enemy plane on fire, especially with the "Universal" belts that composed entirely of an incendiary rounds.

== Usage in battles ==

When facing fighters and interceptors in Realistic Battles, it is best to use Omni-purpose or Armour-piercing/Ground Target ammunition belts for the 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns. These ammunition belts are effective at tearing through the engine block and hopefully resulting in an internal engine fire. You may be also able to score a pilot kill on your opponent.

====Specific enemies worth noting====

B-17s are notoriously hard to kill when compared to similar Soviet and German bombers. However, with the B-17 the best defence is to evade your opponent altogether. Your worst enemies will be almost all fighters due to the high BR (Fw 190 D, Ta-152, BF-109 G-10/K-4, F8F-1B, Tempest, etc.). Most fighters will have 2-4 cannons which can still make short work of the B-17.
[[File:BomberImage_Boeing_B-17G_2_BG_dropping_bombs.jpg|200px|thumb|right|B-17G dropping bombs in Europe]]
The weakest area of approach with the B-17G is the front. Only 1-2 MGs can be focused directly forward if a fighter head-ons you. The crew is also focused at the nose. If there is a fighter at your level, try to turn and expose the tail "barb". Diving may work as well. However, diving can put you into more danger as more fighters may swarm you.

====Counter-tactics====

When climbing to fight the B-17, you will most likely have a lower energy level depending on the plane you use. The F8F-1B, for example, has extremely good acceleration with WEP and can climb ridiculously quickly as well. If in a plane such as an F8F-1B, attempt to head on the B-17 as this is the weakest point. If the B-17 turns away, climb and chase the Flying Fortress at a higher altitude and then dive on it from an angle. Always avoid tailing a B-17, regardless of model. This just warrants a knocked-out pilot or fire.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable 1 gear || Auto controlled
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Large bomb payload
* Powerful air defence capabilities, with effectively no blindspots
* Accurate Browning MGs with large ammo pool, capable of engaging the enemy from up to 1.75 km away and also help leading the target easier
* Multiple powerful engines increase the plane's endurance and acceleration
* Decent climb rate for a bomber at higher altitudes
* Very durable airframe and overall heavily armoured, capable of stay airborne provided that the tail were not destroyed
* Nose gunner is very helpful in RB against bomber hunters

'''Cons:'''

* Fairly slow compared to other aircraft at its rank
* Big target, its huge wings and tail are vulnerable against 20 mm cannons
* Nose is extremely vulnerable for the pilot and crew
* Prone to fire damage
* Excessive wing loading can cause the wings to rip while turning at higher speed (~400 km/h)
* Awfully slow bomb bay door opening time, forcing the pilot to open it in advance or risks missing the base entirely

== History ==

Due to direct experience from U.S. bomber crews in 1943, the B-17F revealed inadequate protection from head-on attacks by enemy fighters. To remedy this problem, a remote-controlled chin turret armed with two 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns was introduced on the final production block of Douglas-built B-17Fs, the B-17F-75-DL. This turret became standard on the B-17G, and proved to be more practical than manually operated guns initially fitted to the nose. The B-17G began delivery in September of 1943 and included various upgrades throughout its production. A total of 8,680 aircraft were built from three manufacturers until April of 1945. The B-17G could be considered the cornerstone of U.S. bombing efforts in the European theatre between 1944 and 1945.

{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
The Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress was the first American all-metal heavy bomber. The plane was designed in 1934 in response to a design competition for a coastal anti-ship bomber. A year later the Boeing-299 prototype was built, equipped with four 750-HP Pratt & Whitney engines. It was first flown on June 28 of that year. Subsequent variants used the 1,200 HP Wright Cyclone engines. Boeing factories began mass producing B-17 Flying Fortresses for the US Army Air Corps exactly 12 months later. Throughout the production run, Boeing produced 6,981 B-17s of various variants and an additional 5,745 were built by Lockheed and Douglas giving a total of 12,726 aircraft.

The B-17 quickly became legendary due to its ability to withstand battle damage and to bring hole-ridden aircraft home safely. Nine, and later twelve, Browning .50-cal machine guns offered formidable defensive fire coverage. Nevertheless, the aircraft was not without its faults. For example, the tendency to catch fire was never overcome. Another weakness was the lack of protection against head-on attacks; out of 27 pieces of armour, none protected the crew from the front. Firing a cannon or even a machine gun at the cockpit would find the crew completely unprotected. Another famous part of the B-17 was its highly advanced Norden bombsight, which allowed for effective bomb aiming even at high altitudes.
{{Navigation-End}}

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b-17g Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[B-17 (Family)]]

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

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

{{AirManufacturer Boeing}}
{{USA bombers}}

B-29A-BN

2024-03-15T22:38:28Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American heavy bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = B-29/Tu-4 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b-29
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

In the few years leading up to World War II, the United States Army Air Corps (USAAC) realized that its current primary heavy bomber, the [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]] would not have the range nor the payload to efficiently transit what would end up becoming the Pacific Theater. To compensate for this, Boeing began to develop a prototype which would incorporate a pressurized cabin to allow for higher altitude flying, which would help to protect the bomber from Japanese fighters which struggled to get to the higher altitudes.
[[File:B-29 kawashima momo 001.png|350px|thumb|left|A view of the B-29's cockpit.]]
The resulting XB-29 prototype and the later production series B-29 bomber had everything the USAAC was looking for: high-pressured cockpit, a maximum altitude of almost 9,750 m (32,000 ft), true airspeed around 600 km/h (372 mph), and the ability to carry a massive payload of bombs upwards of 9,000 kg (20,000 lbs) in total. Defensive positions on the B-29 were well-placed to ensure maximum coverage surrounding the bomber. This bomber was one of the first aircraft to be fitted with the General Electric Central Fire Control system which could be used to remotely control four of the remotely controlled turrets (two dorsal and two ventral), though in their early stages, this aircraft's turrets each also had a General Electric analogue computer linked to it allowing the weapons to be more accurate by automatically factoring in airspeed, gravity, temperature, and lead time for the inbound aircraft. With this setup, these turrets could be controlled from the nose, tail or any of the three mid-fuselage positions and a single gunner could actually control more than one turret at a time increasing the effectiveness and lethality of the bomber's defences. Bristling with 12 x M2 Browning machine guns, the B-29A-BN was extremely difficult to approach, let alone make a successful pass and leave untouched.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]]. Unlike other bombers which can take on a secondary role as a pseudo-attacker, the B-29A-BN is a bomber, period. The sole purpose of the B-29 is to beat ground targets into submission either with upwards of 40 x 500 lb bombs, 18 x 1,000 lb bombs, 8 x 2,000 lb bombs or 4 x 4,000 lb bombs. The larger 1,000, 2,000 and 4000 lb bombs are perfect for base bombing while the relatively smaller 500 lb bombs make the perfect tool for carpet bombing where vehicles, pillboxes or anti-aircraft artillery may be clustered together. The B-29A-BN is an aerial beast which can drop a beastly amount of explosive ordnance, rivalled by few, but is not immune to enemy fighters. Altitude is this bomber's friend and when achieved can be a safer haven from which to rain down explosives on enemy bases or vehicles. Any opponents that persist in attempting to intercept the B-29 can be easily taken care of by the large complement of defensive .50 cal machine guns, with excellent rate of fire, ammunition capacity, and coverage.

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

[[File:B-29 jonigustavo 001.png|300px|thumb|right]]

The B-29A-BN, much like its contemporaries the Messerschmitt [[Me 264]], Blohm & Voss [[BV 238]] and Tupolev [[Tu-4]] was built for the sole purpose of flying high and dropping large amounts of bombs. To account for these characteristics, others such as manoeuvrability, climb rate and acceleration were compromised. The B-29 is a heavy aircraft which when adding 10,000 – 20,000 lbs of ordnance will only make the plane that much more difficult to get to altitude, but once there this aircraft does have a decent cruising speed. To help speed up gameplay for this aircraft, it is given an air-start at the beginning of matches and also after landing to reload and repair due to its sheer size and difficulty climbing to its bombing altitude.

The typical method of utilising this bomber is to fly the aircraft to a higher altitude. Depending on the enemy fighters, attackers and interceptors which appear in the match, you may be able to stay lower around 6,000 m (20,000 ft) or you may need to increase closer to 9,150 m (30,000 ft) to make it extremely difficult for the fighters to follow you up and many if they do get that high, their engines are struggling to keep the plane above stall speed which provides you with the opportunity to leave them behind or to easily pick them off with your gunners.

One downside to flying at the higher altitudes in arcade battles is that if you bomb a base but don't completely destroy it, it is difficult to circle back around and bomb again when the bombs have reloaded. A wide circle is necessary to accomplish this and it may be better and more efficient instead to fly towards another base, bomb it and turn around and finish off the first base. Another option too is to leave the partially bombed bases for the smaller and slower bombers on your team to finish off or just catch the partially bombed bases on a return pass.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 9,100 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
| 615 || 603 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 33.2 || 34.4 || 4.1 || 4.1 || rowspan="2" | 1,500
|-
! Upgraded
| 669 || 641 || 30.7 || 32.0 || 11.7 || 6.5
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 609  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 332 || 322 || 270 || ~4 || ~2
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 340 || < 350 || < 290 || > 400
|-
|}

====Engine performance====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine Name
! colspan="3" | Number present
|-
| colspan="3" | Wright R-3350-57 18-cylinder || 4
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine characteristics
|-
! colspan="2" | Weight (each)
! colspan="1" | Type
! colspan="1" | Cooling
|-
| colspan="2" | 1,251 kg || Radial || Air
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine power (Stock)
|-
! colspan="2" | Max
! colspan="2" | Take-off
|-
| colspan="2" | 1,975 hp || colspan="2" | 2,276 hp
|-
! colspan="4" | Engine power (Upgraded)
|-
! colspan="2" | Max
! colspan="2" | Take-off
|-
| colspan="2" | 2,200 hp || colspan="2" | 2,502 hp
|-
|}

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


* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilots.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates in front of the pilots.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates behind the pilots.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates in front of tail control tractions.
* 6.5 mm Steel plates boxing around rear dorsal gunner and beam gunners.
* 6.5 mm Steel plate behind the rear ventral gunner.
* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front of tail gunner.
* 6.5 mm Steel plate in front of tail gunner.

The B-29A-BN had to be judicious when it came to providing protecting armour for the aircrew at the sacrifice of additional fuel or ordnance. In fact, later models removed many of their defensive turrets in order to allow for more fuel and ordnance to be loaded. It is obvious that an aircraft this size will be a huge target for enemy fighters to attack with the nose section (cockpit) and the tail turret being the two most likely targets (head-on attack and tail approach attack) and thus both areas were outfitted with 60 mm bulletproof glass which helps against lower calibre weapons, however 20 mm and above make short work of the bulletproof glass. 6.5 mm steel plates are scattered around the aircraft to provide protection for both the crew members and some of the control surface linkages. Though not a stop-all invincible shield for the crew, it many instances it provided enough protection to allow crew members to survive and fight another day.

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

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

[[File:B-29 meanswing 001.png|450px|thumb|right]]
{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)|AN-M56 (4,000 lb)}}

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

* 20 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (10,000 lb total)
* 18 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (18,000 lb total)
* 40 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (20,000 lb total)
* 8 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (16,000 lb total)
* 4 x 4,000 lb AN-M56 bombs (16,000 lb total)

<nowiki>*</nowiki> Note: A nuclear payload becomes available for the B-29 in Ground Arcade battles of BR 6.0 and higher. It consists of 1 nuclear bomb and is attainable after reaching 15 kills in the match.

One might say the B-29A-BN is effectively a dump truck which can dump a ton of explosives, no make that upwards of 10 tons of explosives upon enemy targets. Utilising speed at higher altitudes, it is the purpose of the Superfortress to race to an enemy base or ground targets and just rain down TNT. With three choices of bomb weights to choose from and four different configurations, there is no shortage of ways to destroy ground targets. The 1,000 lb and 2,000 lb bombs come in most handy for base bombing as they do the most amount of damage for the least amount of effort in a concentrated area. Area of denial is the speciality of the 500 lb bombs when used in carpet bombing operations. Carpet bombing is effectively laying down many of the 500 lb bombs at one time over an area where vehicles such as trucks, tanks and anti-aircraft vehicles or hardened structures such as pillboxes or anti-aircraft artillery may be located at. Since vehicles are on the move, dropping multiple bombs at a time making it more difficult for them to move out of the way and avoid the inbound ordnance.

With the B-29A-BN, there is no real overkill with the bombs, which can make the Superfortress a prime target to be eliminated early as with upwards of 20,000 lbs in bombs, the B-29A-BN can make short work of enemy bases and end the match earlier than most will expect.

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

[[File:B-29 your jacket 001.jpg|350px|thumb|right|A Bf 109 attempts to take on a B-29A-BN.]]
{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, front dorsal turret (1,000 rpg = 4,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, front ventral turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, rear dorsal turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, rear ventral turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, tail turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

The B-29A-BN is defended by an impressive 12 x .50 calibre Browning machine guns rivalled only by the Blohm & Voss [[BV 238]], Tupolev [[Tu-4]], Consolidated [[PB4Y-2]] and [[B-24D-25-CO|B-24]] and the Boeing [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]]. Typically when bombers add more guns, they had to add more crew to operate them which increased the overall weight of the aircraft, though ensuring more protection, it also reduced the amount of fuel or bombs which could be carried.

As a historical note, the advent of early analogue computers which were outfitted on the B-29A-BN and the state-of-the-art General Electric Central Fire Control System allowed for remote operation of both dorsal and both ventral turrets along with the tail gun if needed. The turrets could be linked through the fire control system and allow one gunner to operate multiple guns at one time. Simplifying this process and allowing gunners from just about anywhere on the aircraft to control the turrets reduced the number of crew members needed to operate the aircraft. Though four times the size of a B-25, the B-29A-BN operated efficiently on the same amount of crew members, seven.

The computer-aided turrets allowed for more accuracy when firing and can train the guns in just about any direction needed to combat incoming fighters. The tail gunner position is especially deadly as a fighter perched on the tail will be flying into the oncoming bullets from the tail gun position, thereby taking more damage when hit and more likely to take on a critical hit or disabling blow. Though not totally invulnerable to the crafty fighter pilot, the B-29 in its own right is a porcupine with sharp quills pointing in all directions which will make it as difficult as possible for anyone to get past the defences.

== Usage in battles ==


The ultimate strategic bomber for the [[:Category:USA_aircraft|USAF]]. Loaded up with eight metric tonnes of bombs and twelve good ol' Browning heavy machine guns, this is the Superfortress. A wonderful advertising name, but don't be fooled, it is bigger than a barn and thus impossible to miss. Keep a safe distance from any hot combat zones. Your defensive turrets will not keep you safe, they will shred any foe getting close, but the B-29's enemies do not need to. So concentrate on what this plane is good at; delivering payload, and lots of it.

Once your bombing run is complete, start descending towards your airfield; enemy fighters might be trying to find you so you should be even more alert now than before. The B-29 has one of the most powerful defensive systems installed on any bomber, so you should be able to defend yourself reasonably well unless it is a head-on attack where you will have very limited protection. You must also combine it with a defensive style of flying to utilise it to its full potential; the B-29 offers great handling for its size. Despite this, be very careful when you enter a dive. It is just as prone as any other aircraft to suffering structural damage if its limitations are exceeded.

Great defensive armament will destroy most enemies that do get close. Being able to point at least four fifty-calibre in every direction and about six to the rear position will deal with any fighter quickly. But do not forget the size of the Fortress. Most of the enemies shells will hit some mark.

Of course, bomb load is very good with the B-29, with its historic performance as one of the best American bomber in service. Up to 8 x 2,000 lb could be carried in the bomb bay

;<nowiki>"Hit-and-Run" tactic:</nowiki>

Another way the B-29 can be played is in a "hit and run" tactic. At its BR, the B-29A-BN will face mostly jets, so climbing to a very high altitude sometime wouldn't work because the jets will be able to catch up quickly. The "hit and run" tactic is very risky, but it can be very enjoyable, and if it works then you can end the game in 15 minutes. Since the match will start with the B-29 spawning in at about 4,500 m (15,000 ft), go into a shallow dive and maintain speed about 450 km/h (270 mph). Dive towards an altitude of around 3,000 m (9,800 ft) so that enemy anti-aircraft positions do not fire at the B-29, which may expose it to other enemy fighters. Do not head directly to an enemy base, instead go around 10-20 degrees off course towards the base direction so that the enemy can't easily find the B-29 from tracing a line between the friendly spawn point to their base. If present, use clouds to obscure the B-29's profile in the skies.

From here, the enemy jets' behavior will decide if this tactic will work or not. Typically, the enemy would be divided between the planes attacking ground targets at low altitude, far from a bomber's path to a base, or planes climbing to high altitudes for energy fighting and searching for high-altitude bombers. The intent of the dive to ~2,000 m and the 450 km/h speed is to squeeze in between the ground attackers and interceptors and pass by undetected. If everything goes right, the B-29 should be able to reach its first base unimpeded without any fighters in pursuit, which can allow a B-29 the opportunity to knock out three or four bases before enemy fighters become alerted toward the B-29 precise location. From that point, the B-29 can either attempt to use the rest of its payload against the enemy airfield (unadvised as the low-altitude run exposes the B-29 to the anti-aircraft guns at the airfield) or return back to base triumphantly awaiting a bomb reload.

Due to this tactic hinging only on the success of slipping through the enemies undetected, this tactic should not be relied if there are no clouds for concealment, the match is an uptier against more advanced jets, or if the player is not able to sustain the repair costs of a damaged B-29.

;<nowiki>Close Air Support:</nowiki>

The B-29 can be situationally good as a close air support bomber. It should not be spawned when there are more than one or two enemy planes up, and also when uptiered as radar-guided SPAA will often destroy you before reaching the battlefield. It is best either early in the match, where lots of players are close together and enemy planes have not spawned yet, or later in the match if your team has air superiority. To get the most enemies at once, load the 4,000 lb bombs instead of the smaller bombs as they have a very large blast radius (larger than the FAB-3000). Spawn in and immediatly cut throttle and point the nose down to lose altitude. Bombing from high altitude can work sometimes but won't net enemy targets reliably. Keep diving until at an altitude of 900-1,200 meters, and look for markers from teammates or cap points changing hands to drop a bomb on. If no markers are avalible, fly around the battlefield until one appears or try to spot targets yourself. To make small adjustments, use your yaw keys instead of turning. After doing a bombing run, keep flying for some time to give yourself plenty of room to turn. The B-29 in a CAS role is high risk, high reward, and there are times where the plane will get shot down before getting bombs off, but also times where the B-29 pilot can score multiple targets in one go.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable 1 gear || Auto controlled
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===

[[File:B-29 kohler 001.png|350px|thumb|right|B-29A-BN's cockpit crew during a turn]]

'''Pros:'''

* Very heavy payload
* Stock bomb load is able to destroy bases with one payload in arcade and up to two bases in realistic/simulator battles
* Can be difficult for fighters to reach same cruising altitude, even for jets
* Effective defensive turrets which virtually have no blind spots
* Fast for its size
* Virtually immune to small arms machine gunfire
* Receives air start after repairing/rearming in an airfield
* All payload options are internal and have next to no effect on flight performance
* Gunners are located separately from the gun turret (remote-controlled turrets) with the exception of the tail turret
* Can easily win a match if allowed to reach optimal bombing altitude

'''Cons:'''

* Easily susceptible to damage from autocannons larger than 20 mm especially the [[MK 108 (30 mm)|30 mm MK 108]]
* Unable to reliably defend itself from multiple opponents attacking at once from multiple directions
* Big size, can easily be spotted from long distances, especially with skilled crews
* Has a low dive top-speed
* As with all heavy bombers, it lacks the ability to manoeuvre well
* Takes a while to reach an optimal altitude
* Landing gear takes a long time to deploy and retract
* Wings are considered weak spots
* Will face jets most of the time
* Low flap deployment max speed
* Lacks the AN/APQ-13 or AN/APQ-7 Eagle radar system
* Also does not have the advanced gunner sights

== History ==


The B-29 was one of the largest aircraft used during World War II. It was exclusively used in the Pacific Theatre during the war and participated in bombing raids on multiple islands in the Pacific war. The B-29 became the world's first and only nuclear-capable bomber to deliver weapons during wartime when on August 6th, 1945 the B-29 Enola Gay dropped the atomic bomb known as "Little Boy" on Hiroshima, Japan. Three days later, the B-29 Bockscar dropped the second atomic bomb "Fat Man" on Nagasaki, Japan.

During the Second World War, its only area of operations was the Pacific Theater specifically targeting the Japanese mainland. It also saw combat service in the Korean War a small group of loaned aircraft were evaluated by the R.A.F during the early 1950's as well. In British service, they were known as the "Washington B Mk. 1".

During World War 2, the B-29 completed over 20,000 sorties with an estimated 180,000 tons of bombs dropped, as well as two atomic bombs. A total number of 3,970 were built and delivered to the USAAF. Perhaps the most famous "copy" of the war was the Tu-4. Although outwardly looking identical, this Soviet "B-29" was converted to metric making it unique. Other aircraft derived from the B-29 include the B-50, C-97, KC-97, 377 Stratocruiser, and NASA's own Guppy cargo carriers.<ref name="Vehicle Profile WT forum">Excerpts from [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/292156-profile-b-29-superfortress/ Profile B-29 Superfortress], no Author mentioned.</ref>

The B-29 post-war also helped in the scientific, research, and development fields. They would play a key role in hurricane hunting and storm chasing which allowed it to collect key information about storm patterns, and helped to improve and to develop new radar systems such as the "sun tracker". It was also the aircraft that carried the supersonic test aircraft Bell X-1 into the air. The last American B-29 squadron was retired in the 1960s. Today one called "Fifi" still flies at air show circuits. It was joined by another named "Doc" in 2016.<ref name="Vehicle Profile WT forum" />

{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
An all-metal monoplane with a retractable landing gear system including a nosewheel. The crew consisted of 14 persons. Distinctive features of the Superfortress included a pressurized cockpit for the crew and a Central Fire Control system for the defensive armament.

The B-29 (Model 345) was developed by the Boeing Aircraft design department in early 1940. The XB-29 prototype model performed its maiden flight on September 21, 1942. Full-scale production of the aircraft was started in June 1943.

B-29s had Wright R-3350-23 eighteen-cylinder, radial air-cooled engines producing a maximum power of 2,200 hp, with four-bladed automatic propellers.

The defensive armament of the Superfortress included four remotely controlled turrets: two below the fuselage and two above. Each turret housed two 12.7 mm Colt-Browning M2.5 machine guns with 500-1,000 rounds each. Some aircraft had an upper front turret equipped with four machine guns. All weapons were aimed at the target from three sighting stations located in blisters and from the bombardier's station.

Three armament options were available for the rear mount, controlled by an independent air gunner: a 20 mm Hispano-Bendix AN-M2 cannon and two 12.7 mm Colt-Browning M2.5 machine guns, three 12.7 mm machine guns, or two 12.7 mm machine guns.

A bomb load of up to 9,000 kg was housed in two bomb bays, where cluster racks were mounted.

The B-29 was equipped with a large amount of radio equipment for various purposes. Its large bomb capacity, powerful and effective defensive armament, and state-of-the-art equipment would have turned the Superfortress into the best heavy bomber of World War II if not for engine breakdowns that continually plagued the aircraft. For one whole year, up to the middle of 1944, the bomber's performance was hampered by a high accident rate. It was only by the end of the summer of 1944 that efforts to improve the fire-prone engines were relatively successful, but the problem was never entirely eradicated.

B-29s were used exclusively in the Pacific theater of the war. Superfortresses were used in combat for the first time on June 5, 1944 during the raid on Bangkok. On June 14, 1944, American bombers attacked the territory of Japan for the first time. Military and industrial facilities in Sasebo, Nagasaki, Omura and Yawata were regularly attacked. In August 1944, B-29s began to bomb oil refineries on the island of Sumatra.

The B-29s were flown out of China until December 1944, when they were relocated to India. Their targets were docks in Singapore, ports in Indochina, and rail junctions in Burma. B-29s also mined rivers in China and the coastal waters of Vietnam and Malaya from the air.

In October 1944, B-29s began carrying out massive attacks on Japan from the Mariana Islands. During the war, these aircraft dropped 54,917 tons of high-explosive bombs and 109,068 tons of incendiary bombs on Japan and delivered 12,000 naval mines. The B-29 became the world's first nuclear weapon carrier when it dropped nuclear bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki.

From 1950-53, B-29 bombers took part in the Korean War. From 1950-55, the aircraft was operated by the RAF Bomber Command under the designation "Washington B.1".

A total of 3,947 B-29s were manufactured, including all variants. The plane was withdrawn from service as a bomber with the USA in late 1954.
{{Navigation-End}}
[[File:B-29 tay777 001.png|600px|thumb|center|]]

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b-29 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="150">
File:B-29 kawashima momo 002.png
File:B-29 th fegel team 001.png
File:B-29 kawashima momo 003.png
File:B-29A-BN releasing Mark 6 nuclear bomb.png
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|8Yewf7LXfUU|'''WT - B-29 - Punished for not Scumbagging''' - ''NapalmRatte''|gxIVvUZGptw|'''The Shooting Range #51''' - ''Special'' section at 00:29 discusses the B-29 & Tu-4.|3Ut75XHCWgk|'''Realistic: B-29A-BN Superfortress [Grace]''' - ''Jengar''}}

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Heinkel [[He 177 A-5]]
* Tupolev [[Tu-4]]
* Nakajima [[G8N1]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/3507--en|[Profile] B-29 Superfortress]]
* [[Wikipedia:Boeing_B-29_Superfortress|[Wikipedia] B-29 Superfortress]]
* [https://www.boeing.com/history/products/b-29-superfortress.page <nowiki>[Boeing.com]</nowiki> B-29 Superfortress History Page]
* [https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=82 <nowiki>[Militaryfactory.com]</nowiki> Boeing B-29 Superfortress - Strategic High-Altitude Long-Range Heavy Bomber Aircraft]

=== References ===
<references />

{{AirManufacturer Boeing}}
{{USA bombers}}

B-17G-60-VE

2024-03-15T22:32:37Z

U140753025: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = American bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = B-17 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=b-17g
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==


The '''Boeing B-17G''' is the main serial production variant of the famous "Flying Fortress" first produced in 1943. Using lessons learned from operating the previous [[B-17E]]/F models, several changes were made on the G model, with some carried from the troublesome F model. This include a pressurised cabin, the addition of a chin remote-controlled turret and improved cheek turret mount to counter frontal engagements, moving the right waist gunner position towards to front to increase the overall coverage, improved superchargers for high-altitude operation, and receiving the "Cheyenne" tail turret which increased protection and the field of fire for the tail gunner. Around 8,680 B-17Gs were built, with several airframes being converted as a testbed for various projects.

Being in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. The '''B-17G Flying Fortress''', as the name suggests, is intended to be used as a high-altitude level bomber, designed to target enemy airfields and military bases. Compared to the early [[B-17E]] models, the B-17G is noticeably faster thanks to improved superchargers, allowing it to climb better and further at higher altitudes. The B-17G's defensive capabilities is also improved, with an addition of chin turret and revised gunner positions that effectively eliminating every blind spots around the plane. In addition, the B-17G also has an access to extra wing hardpoints that allowed it to carry an extra pair of 1,000 lb and 2,000 lb bombs. All of this allowed the B-17G to perform the same job that the B-17E excels at even better than before; destroying ground targets while evading most enemy using altitude advantage, and giving a tough fight to anyone who manages to reach it. However, the B-17G still retains the critical weakness of the "Flying Fortress" family, namely its relatively weak tail, excessive wing loading that restrict its manoeverability, and its tendency to catch fire.

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

As with earlier B-17 models, the B-17G's flight performance is nothing to write home about. The plane is quite slow to move around at higher speeds and suffers from excessive wing loading that prevents it from doing most aerobatic manoeuvres outside of Arcade mode. While the B-17G's top speed is decent for a heavy bomber, it is still quite slow compared to other fighters at its BR, which means the B-17G will not outrun any fighters or interceptors unless it has an altitude advantage.

Speaking about altitude, the B-17G gets a long range bomber spawn. When combined with the plane's improved higher altitude performance, the B-17G can climb up to a safer altitude from most fighters except some dedicated interceptors, thus allowing the B-17G to reach its target and safely drop its payload as long as the plane is not spotted or is far enough from most enemies.

Like the previous B-17 models, the B-17G has a great flight endurance. The plane is capable of flying even if two engines were disabled and it remains responsive even when its airframes and ailerons were damaged, so long as your tail or wingtips were not destroyed. And thus increases the chance of returning to the base after combat.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 7,680 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
| 492 || 476 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 37.2 || 38.2 || 2.2 || 2.2 || rowspan="2" | 600
|-
! Upgraded
| 535 || 510 || 34.9 || 36.0 || 7.7 || 4.6
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 516  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 383 || 361 || 249 || ~2 || ~1
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 330 || < 310 || < 270 || > 300
|-
|}

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


* 6.35 mm Steel - Lower nose armour plate
* 6.35 mm Steel - Back of pilot and co-pilot's seats
* 6.35 mm Steel - Dorsal turret gunner protective plate
* 6.35 mm Steel - Radio operator protective plate
* 6.35 mm Steel - Beam gunner protective armour x 2
* 6.35 mm Steel - Tail gunner protective plate
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Ball turret
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Tail gunner rear window

Like the previous B-17 models, the B-17G is a very tough nut to crack. The airframe is clad with several layers of armour protecting the pilots and gunner, and the airframe itself can take a lot of punishments even from 20 mm autocannons.

However, the B-17G still retains the same weakness at the wingtips and tail that can be relatively easy to destroy and effectively guaranteed a crash if that was the case. The B-17G's huge fuel tanks inside the wings is also very vulnerable to fire damage, though you can potentially put if off before it destroy your plane by turn off your engines and use the EFS system.

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

This slow and lumbering heavy bomber relies entirely on its turrets for defence. Without it, the plane is target practice. Thus "Protective vests" should be the first unlock. Further survivability upgrades will make the fight easier, but do not think it will successfully face-off against enemy fighters. So upgrading the bomb payloads should be second priority. Performance modules can be considered the least necessary.

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

{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|A.P. AN-MK 33 (1,000 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)}}

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

* 8 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 12 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (3,200 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb A.P. AN-MK 33 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 6 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
* 2 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 8 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (8,000 lb total)
* 4 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (8,000 lb total)

While the most efficient payload weight-to-explosive wise is the 12 x 500 lb bombs, the B-17G has an option to equip an extra pair of 1,000 lb and 2,000 lb bombs on an external hardpoint below the wing root, thus increasing its capability against a group of ground targets or naval targets.

The B-17G also has an option to use an AP bombs, though due to the poor manoeability of the plane, it would be nearly impossible to hit any ground or naval target using these bombs, so it is advised to use the high explosive bombs instead.

=== Defensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}

{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:

* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, chin turret (400 rpg = 800 total)
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, 2 x cheek turrets (300 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, front dorsal turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, rear dorsal turret (500 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, ventral turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (600 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, tail turret (575 rpg = 1,150 total)

The B-17G has 13 x .50 Browning machine guns as its defensive armaments, all guns has a large amount of ammo available, and thus allowed you to spray it at any incoming enemy as you please, so long as you didn't hold the fire for several seconds and jam it. The Browning MG is also quite accurate, with a kill being achievable even from 1.75 km away. This means you can effectively deter the enemy from chasing you by firing at them at long ranges, potentially damage their engine and force them to retreat or even get a kill.

Compared to the B-17E, the B-17G has improved defensive gun arrangements, most notably the addition of a chin turret and an upgraded tail turret. With revised waist position, the B-17G can get more guns onto its tail and offers more coverage from sides and below, thus covered all the blindspots of the B-17E varaint. While the improved cheek gun mounts and chin turret offers more defense from frontal engagements, facing the enemy head-ons are still ill-advised as the cockpit lacks any armoured glass to protect the pilots and gunners. Thus, like the previous B-17E, you should face your tail at the enemy at all times to maximize your damage output.

Much like the [[B-17E/L|late war B-17E]], the B-17G has an access to the "late war" ammo belt, which swap the plain tracer shell with the dreaded M20 API-T shell. This means the B-17G has a better chance of lighting the enemy plane on fire, especially with the "Universal" belts that composed entirely of an incendiary rounds.

== Usage in battles ==

When facing fighters and interceptors in Realistic Battles, it is best to use Omni-purpose or Armour-piercing/Ground Target ammunition belts for the 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns. These ammunition belts are effective at tearing through the engine block and hopefully resulting in an internal engine fire. You may be also able to score a pilot kill on your opponent.

====Specific enemies worth noting====

B-17s are notoriously hard to kill when compared to similar Soviet and German bombers. However, with the B-17 the best defence is to evade your opponent altogether. Your worst enemies will be almost all fighters due to the high BR (Fw 190 D, Ta-152, BF-109 G-10/K-4, F8F-1B, Tempest, etc.). Most fighters will have 2-4 cannons which can still make short work of the B-17.
[[File:BomberImage_Boeing_B-17G_2_BG_dropping_bombs.jpg|200px|thumb|right|B-17G dropping bombs in Europe]]
The weakest area of approach with the B-17G is the front. Only 1-2 MGs can be focused directly forward if a fighter head-ons you. The crew is also focused at the nose. If there is a fighter at your level, try to turn and expose the tail "barb". Diving may work as well. However, diving can put you into more danger as more fighters may swarm you.

====Counter-tactics====

When climbing to fight the B-17, you will most likely have a lower energy level depending on the plane you use. The F8F-1B, for example, has extremely good acceleration with WEP and can climb ridiculously quickly as well. If in a plane such as an F8F-1B, attempt to head on the B-17 as this is the weakest point. If the B-17 turns away, climb and chase the Flying Fortress at a higher altitude and then dive on it from an angle. Always avoid tailing a B-17, regardless of model. This just warrants a knocked-out pilot or fire.

=== Manual Engine Control ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
|-
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
|-
! Oil !! Water !! Type
|-
| Controllable || Controllable Auto control available || Not controllable Not auto controlled || Controllable Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable 1 gear || Auto controlled
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Large bomb payload
* Powerful air defence capabilities, with effectively no blindspots
* Accurate Browning MGs with large ammo pool, capable of engaging the enemy from up to 1.75 km away and also help leading the target easier
* Multiple powerful engines increase the plane's endurance and acceleration
* Decent climb rate for a bomber at higher altitudes
* Very durable airframe and overall heavily armoured, capable of stay airborne provided that the tail were not destroyed
* The bottom nose gunner is very helpful in RB against bomber hunters

'''Cons:'''

* Fairly slow compared to other aircraft at its rank
* Big target, its huge wings and tail are vulnerable against 20 mm cannons
* Nose is extremely vulnerable for the pilot and crew
* Prone to fire damage
* Excessive wing loading can cause the wings to rip while turning at higher speed (~400 km/h)
* Awfully slow bomb bay door opening time, forcing the pilot to open it in advance or risks missing the base entirely

== History ==

Due to direct experience from U.S. bomber crews in 1943, the B-17F revealed inadequate protection from head-on attacks by enemy fighters. To remedy this problem, a remote-controlled chin turret armed with two 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns was introduced on the final production block of Douglas-built B-17Fs, the B-17F-75-DL. This turret became standard on the B-17G, and proved to be more practical than manually operated guns initially fitted to the nose. The B-17G began delivery in September of 1943 and included various upgrades throughout its production. A total of 8,680 aircraft were built from three manufacturers until April of 1945. The B-17G could be considered the cornerstone of U.S. bombing efforts in the European theatre between 1944 and 1945.

{{break}}
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
The Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress was the first American all-metal heavy bomber. The plane was designed in 1934 in response to a design competition for a coastal anti-ship bomber. A year later the Boeing-299 prototype was built, equipped with four 750-HP Pratt & Whitney engines. It was first flown on June 28 of that year. Subsequent variants used the 1,200 HP Wright Cyclone engines. Boeing factories began mass producing B-17 Flying Fortresses for the US Army Air Corps exactly 12 months later. Throughout the production run, Boeing produced 6,981 B-17s of various variants and an additional 5,745 were built by Lockheed and Douglas giving a total of 12,726 aircraft.

The B-17 quickly became legendary due to its ability to withstand battle damage and to bring hole-ridden aircraft home safely. Nine, and later twelve, Browning .50-cal machine guns offered formidable defensive fire coverage. Nevertheless, the aircraft was not without its faults. For example, the tendency to catch fire was never overcome. Another weakness was the lack of protection against head-on attacks; out of 27 pieces of armour, none protected the crew from the front. Firing a cannon or even a machine gun at the cockpit would find the crew completely unprotected. Another famous part of the B-17 was its highly advanced Norden bombsight, which allowed for effective bomb aiming even at high altitudes.
{{Navigation-End}}

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b-17g Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[B-17 (Family)]]

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

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

{{AirManufacturer Boeing}}
{{USA bombers}}