War Thunder Wiki - User contributions [en]

USS New Orleans

2023-02-20T21:11:54Z

U41943029: /* Survivability and armour */

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

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American heavy cruiser {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "New Power"]].

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

The USS New Orleans is quite a survivable ship, and a quantum leap in protection over its other American treaty heavy predecessors. Chief among these changes is an increase in barbette protection from 37 mm to 127 mm and turret front armour from 63.5 mm to 203 mm. This resolves the biggest weakness of earlier US heavy cruisers, which was a tendency have their shell rooms and turrets ripped apart early in a fight, causing devastating fires, significant crew losses, and leaving them completely defenseless. Its turrets are still not as resistant as those on the Brooklyns and Clevelands, owing to the 38 mm sides curving around to form its cheeks.

The same cannot be said of its secondary armament, which are still relatively dated open 5"/25 single mounts and as a result will be knocked out very early in a match and is prone to being set on fire.
[[File:USS New Orleans Layout and Protection.png|right|thumb|350px|Armour and internal layout of the USS New Orleans]]
The New Orleans also has significantly improved protection for its engine room, which has the double effect of preventing engine room knock-outs (and associated crew losses and fires) and also making it more likely that you'll be able to turn around and escape from a sticky situation under your own power. Although main magazine protection is reduced somewhat, it is still strong enough and deep enough in the hull that ammo racks from cruiser calibre guns are extremely unlikely. As a nice little bonus, it maintains the strake of anti-fragmentation armour on its upper hull; a small plus compared to the Cleveland.

All in all, the USS New Orleans has everything in protection that the USS Portland, Northampton, and Pensacola lacked while keeping the same decent armament (and, an argument could be made for having better overall damage output due to the turrets spending less time blacked out in a game) and is comparable in durability to the USS Cleveland, making it a strong competitor on the high seas of War Thunder.

{| class="wikitable"
! Armour !! Front !! Side !! Rear !! Deck/Roof
|-
| Turret || 203 mm || 38 mm || 38 mm || 70 mm
|-
| Front magazine || 38.1 mm || 101.6 mm ''Upper'' 76.2 mm ''Lower''
!
| 57.15 mm
|-
| Citadel || 76 mm || 127 mm 82.55 mm || 76 mm || 57.15 mm
|-
| Rear magazine
!
| 120.65 mm ''Upper'' 76.2 mm ''Lower'' || 38.1 mm || 57.15 mm
|-
| Barbette || colspan="3" | 127 mm
!
|-
|}

=== Mobility ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Mobility}}

''Write about the ship's mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward and reverse speed.''

{{NavalMobility}}

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

== Armament ==
{{Specs-Fleet-Armaments}}
=== Primary armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Primary}}

{{main|8 inch/55 Mark 14 (203 mm)}}

The main guns have a slow rotation and reload speed, with 17 seconds with a spaded crew, and 20 seconds stock. the guns also have somewhat moderate shells, but with that, the ship's main armament is poor in reload and rotation speed.
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
|-
! 1,000 m !! 2,500 m !! 5,000 m !! 7,500 m !! 10,000 m !! 15,000 m
|-
| Mk.14 Common || Common || 116 || 102 || 83 || 69 || 57 || 43
|-
| Mk.19 APCBC || APCBC || 383 || 339 || 277 || 228 || 190 || 143
|-
| Mk.25 HC || HE || 61 || 61 || 61 || 61 || 61 || 61
|-
| Mk.17 SP Common || SP Common || 137 || 121 || 99 || 81 || 68 || 51
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (s)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive mass (TNT equivalent) (kg)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Mk.14 Common || Common || 853 || 117.9 || 0.035 || 9 || 4.84 || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
| Mk.19 APCBC || APCBC || 853 || 117.9 || 0.035 || 9 || 1.62 || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
| Mk.25 HC || HE || 853 || 117.9 || 0 || 0.1 || 9.5 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| Mk.17 SP Common || SP Common || 853 || 117.9 || 0.035 || 9 || 4.61 || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
|}

=== Secondary armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Secondary}}

{{main|5 inch/25 Mk.13 AA (127 mm)}}

The 5-inch guns are highly effective at destroying aircraft at long range, and with the HE-VT shells unlocked, are even more effective at destroying aircraft at long range and killing unarmoured destroyers. However, the guns can't fire fast enough to kill destroyers or aircraft, and sometimes, the guns are targeted by stray shells, knocking them out.
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
|-
! 1,000 m !! 2,500 m !! 5,000 m !! 7,500 m !! 10,000 m !! 15,000 m
|-
| Mk.36 AAC || HE-TF || 35 || 35 || 35 || 35 || 35 || 35
|-
| Mk.28 AAC-VT || HE-VT || 36 || 36 || 36 || 36 || 36 || 36
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive mass (TNT equivalent) (kg)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Mk.36 AAC || HE-TF || 657 || 24.42 || 0 || 0.1 || 3.16 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="12" | Proximity-fused shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Arming distance (m)
! rowspan="2" | Trigger radius (m)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive mass (TNT equivalent) (kg)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Mk.28 AAC-VT || HE-VT || 657 || 23.45 || 0 || 0.1 || 457 || 23 || 3.25 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}

=== Anti-aircraft armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-AA}}

{{main|Bofors L/60 Mark 2 (40 mm)|20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mark V (20 mm)}}

The anti-aircraft armament is the shining sword with the New Orleans. The 40 mm Bofors and 20 mm Oerlikon AA guns are very effective at close range. These guns can fight back against aircraft, pesky torpedo boats, and even, in some cases, lower battle-rating destroyers. The Oerlikon and Bofors AA guns can pressure aircraft to stay away, while hidden torpedo boats who come in the sights of the secondary and tertiary armament will have second thoughts about attacking USS New Orleans.

=== Scout plane ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Plane}}

Located amidships is one catapult for a SOC-1 scout plane which provides unique offensive and defensive abilities, expanding tactical options. Ship-launched scout planes fly just like regular tree units but lack munition choices and cockpit views. Alongside the typical abilities of strafing, dropping 2 x 100 lb bombs, and capping zones, the SOC-1 and other scout planes have the added ability to lay down smoke cover (up to 3 times). Captains will be wise to remember to utilise the aircraft and consider when best to use it, for example to cap a point early or late in the match, to create a smoke screen to stymie enemy bombardment and repair, to attack enemy units directly, or perhaps something completely new!

== Usage in battles ==

The USS New Orleans is a moderate top-tier ship. Being a step up from the three other heavy cruisers coming before it, the New Orleans is simply a USS Portland with much more anti-air capability. The downsides of the New Orleans are its below average shell dispersion, reload time, and rotation speed. The shells are somewhat moderate, and when the New Orleans is completely spaded, the heavy cruiser is a deadly force to be reckoned with. The silver lining about the ship is its huge anti-aircraft armament. In all, the ship has 28 Bofors and 24 Oerlikon AA guns, along with the eight 5"/25 guns that can act as dual-purpose weaponry.

When the enemy team starts spawning aircraft, most pilots will start heading towards the dreadnoughts on your team, so stay close to them and provide AA cover, pressuring aircraft to find different targets.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Very effective AA against aircraft and small targets
* The 5-inch guns with HE-VT shells are effective against destroyers when guns are knocked out
* 8-inch guns are useful in close combat
* Very high amount of crew
* Very good anti-aircraft capability
* Able to support dreadnoughts in AA role
* Has anti-fragmentation armour
* Can take hits before sinking
* Fast when spaded
* One scout seaplane

'''Cons:'''

* 8-inch guns have a slow reload speed
* Moderate speed when stock
* Stock time-fuzed Shells are poor against aircraft and naval targets
* Can't compete with fast-firing light cruisers
* Susceptible to torpedo damage
* No torpedo launchers
* Anti-fragmentation armour won't completely stop shells
* Guns rotate slowly

== History ==

[[File:USS New Orleans 1943.jpg|thumb|500x500px|USS New Orleans as seen in 1943 after her damage was repaired.]]
USS New Orleans (CA-32) was the lead ship of her class of heavy cruisers built for the United States Navy. As the last class of 10-thousand ton cruisers built for the US Navy (abiding by the conditions of the Washington Naval Treaty), she was initially classified as a light cruiser and subsequently reclassified due to her 8-inch calibre main armament. New Orleans had an extensive service history, and travelled abroad prior to the Second World War. During the war, she served extensively in the Pacific Theatre, surviving a crippling torpedo hit that almost sunk her. New Orleans was awarded 17 battle stars for her WWII service, making her one of the five most-decorated American vessels of WWII; her sister ships San Francisco and Minneapolis also made the list. She was decommissioned after the war, and scrapped in 1959.

=== Design and development ===
After the construction of the previous Portland, Northampton and Pensacola classes, the United States Navy (USN) began the construction of a new class of heavy cruiser - the New Orleans class. This was the last class of cruisers built to the 10-thousand-ton limit of the Washington naval treaty. The ships were intended to have a much heavier armour load than their predecessors, which were low in survivability. As a result, New Orleans' armour accounted for almost 15% of her total displacement, compared to 5-6% for the preceding ship classes. However, this resulted in a reduction in fuel stowage meaning that the New Orleans had a shorter range compared to her predecessors.

The ships themselves inherited the superstructure design of the preceding cruiser classes - however, the old tripod mast design was removed and replaced with a smoother forward superstructure. This change made the ships easily-distinguishable from their predecessors and was subsequently used on the Wichita, Cleveland and Baltimore classes of heavy cruisers. The ships, similar to the preceding Portland class, were built directly up to the 10 thousand ton limit; New Orleans herself displaced 9950 tons standard.

==== Technical specifications ====
New Orleans carried a main armament of nine 8-inch (203 mm) guns in three triple Mk 9 turrets, later upgraded to Mk 14 turrets during World War II. She also carried a secondary armament of eight single 5-inch 25 calibre guns for anti-aircraft defence. Rounding her armament off, New Orleans carried two 3-pounder (47 mm) saluting guns and eight 12.7 mm Browning machine guns for short-range Anti-aircraft armament. In the 1940s, her anti-aircraft armament was improved significantly with 24 x 40 mm Bofors guns in quad mounts and 28 x 20 mm Oerlikon guns in dual mounts.

Similar to other American cruisers, New Orleans didn't carry any torpedoes. Her engines developed 107 000 shaft horsepower giving her a top speed of 32.7 knots (60.6 km/h). Costing a total of 12 million dollars to build (non-inflation-adjusted), New Orleans was ordered in mid-1929 and laid down in March of 1931. She was eventually completed and commissioned on February 15th 1934.

=== Operational history ===
During her construction, New Orleans was reclassified as a heavy cruiser due to her 8-inch main armament. Thus, she was commissioned as CA-32. Following her commissioning, New Orleans sailed on a cruise to the United Kingdom and Scandinavia, followed by a trip to the Panama canal to escort the Northampton-class cruiser USS Houston as she carried President Franklin D. Roosevelt to Hawaii. She later participated in exercises off of California and in the Atlantic, and participated in the first "Fleet week" where civilians could tour the naval vessel.

New Orleans was docked in the inner harbour during the Pearl harbour attack, without power as she was being refueled. Her crewmen frantically tried to raise steam and sail her away while her gunners fired at the attacking aircraft with small arms. As she had no electrical power, New Orleans' ammunition hoists were inoperational making her 5-inch AA guns nearly useless. Despite this, her crew members attempted to lift shells manually using a rope hoist. New Orleans suffered a near miss from a Japanese HE bomb, but was otherwise unscathed.

In early 1942, New Orleans sailed back to port in San Francisco to repair damage and receive a search radar, along with several 20 mm Oerlikon guns. She then returned to the Pacific, and subsequently saw combat action during the battles of Coral Sea and Midway. During the Battle of the Coral Sea, she tried to save the crippled carrier USS Lexington; she was responsible for evacuating crew members once it was apparent the old carrier could not be saved. She later escorted Yorktown during the Midway battle, but was detached to join the Enterprise battlegroup, and was not present when the Yorktown was crippled by Japanese bombers.

==== Battle of Tassafaronga ====
[[File:USS New Orleans battle damage.jpg|thumb|USS New Orleans steaming into Tulagi after her bow was sheared off by a torpedo.]]
In early November of 1942, New Orleans sailed for Fiji, and then returned to the Solomons for combat action. She was part of a heavy cruiser task force that engaged a Japanese transport squadron during the night of November 30th, in an engagement known as the Battle of Tassafaronga. During the battle, New Orleans, along with four heavy cruisers and six destroyers, spotted a Japanese troop convoy heading for the Solomons, escorted by eight destroyers. And thus began a short engagement limited by poor night-time visibility where the Japanese destroyer Takamani was sunk by gunfire. However, the rest of the Japanese destroyers were not fired upon, and launched a large number of Type 93 'Long Lance' heavy oxygen torpedoes.

At 23:27, Minneapolis was hit by two torpedoes in her engine rooms causing her to take heavy damage. New Orleans subsequently took evasive action, but was hit by a Type 93 that detonated her forward ammunition magazines. As a result, her bow was sheared off at the No. 1 turret and she was slowed to a speed of 2 knots. Subsequently, the cruisers Northampton and Pensacola were both hit, Northampton sinking and Pensacola taking severe damage.

==== Repairs and later service ====
[[File:Temporary bow fitted to USS New Orleans.jpg|thumb|New Orleans with a temporary bow allowing her to steam back to the United States for full repairs.]]
New Orleans, with her entire bow sheared off, limped back to Cockatoo dockyard in Australia; in fact, she sailed backwards (stern first) to avoid flooding the ship's frontal section. There, temporary repairs were made including the fitting of a 'stub bow' to cover the blown-off bow section. In March of 1943, she sailed for Puget Naval Yard where she was given a complete repair, and had a new bow section fitted. She also received a large anti-aircraft armament boost of 24 Bofors guns (6 x 4) and numerous more double Oerlikon cannons. Repairs completed, she returned to service in August of 1943.

New Orleans spent the entirety of 1944 in the Pacific theatre, providing heavy fire support for troop landings in the Marshall Islands. She later escorted the Essex-class carrier Lexington (named after the carrier that she attempted to save at the Battle of the Coral Sea) back to Pearl Harbour after she was torpedoed. She later escorted the American carrier task force during the Battle of the Philippine Sea, and participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf where she sank the light carrier Chiyoda with gunfire.

In early 1945, New Orleans returned to Mare Island for a refit, and then participated in the American invasion of Okinawa where she provided fire support for troops landing on the beaches. She returned to the Philippines in August of 1945, and was anchored at Subic Bay when the Japanese surrendered in Tokyo. She then served in various duties after the war, repatriating American soldiers from China, Japan and the Korean peninsula. She returned to the United States in 1947 and was laid up in reserve, to be scrapped starting in 1959.

New Orleans was awarded 17 stars for her service, making her one of the most decorated ships in American history. In fact, she is tied for third place with three other vessels, two of which are her sister ships: USS San Francisco and USS Minneapolis. The only ships with more stars are the legendary USS Enterprise (20 stars) and the cruiser USS San Diego (18 stars). As well, five ships are named after sailors who perished on USS New Orleans during the battle of Tassafaronga: the destroyer USS Rogers (DD-876), and the destroyer escorts USS Hayter, USS Foreman, USS Swenning, and USS Haines.

== Media ==


;Skins

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

== See also ==

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

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

== External links ==


=== References ===

* Military Factory. (2017, May 30). USS New Orleans (CA-32). Retrieved January 10, 2021, from <nowiki>https://www.militaryfactory.com/ships/detail.asp?ship_id=uss-new-orleans-ca32-heavy-cruiser-united-states</nowiki>
* Naval History and Heritage Command. (2019, June 26). New Orleans II (CA-32). Retrieved January 10, 2021, from <nowiki>https://www.history.navy.mil/research/histories/ship-histories/danfs/n/new-orleans-ii.html</nowiki>
{{ShipManufacturer New York Navy Yard}}
{{USA heavy cruisers}}

A-26B-50

2022-10-15T23:20:53Z

U41943029: /* Usage in battles */

{{About
|about = American strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = A-26 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=a-26b
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.67 "Assault"]].

The A-26B-50 "Invader" is an excellent ground attack aircraft, with an impressive armament of 14 forward-facing M2 Browning .50 cal machine guns, as well as a potential secondary armament of up to 4,000 lbs worth of bombs (4 x 1,000 lbs) or 14 HVAR rockets. The Invader also boasts two dual-M2 Browning machine gun turrets, remote controlled by a gunner located in the rear section of the aircraft.

The Invader's strength over many similar dual-engine aircraft is its powerful armament. The A-26B-50, compared to the [[A-26C-45DT]], has an additional 8 M2 Browning .50 cal machine guns mounted in the nose, making it a terrifying opponent to anything unfortunate enough to end up in front of its nose.

== 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 4,573 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
| 536 || 521 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 29.2 || 30.3 || 7.8 || 7.8 || rowspan="2" | 700
|-
! Upgraded
|606||569||27.1||28.0||16.4||11.4
|-
|}

==== 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}} || 507 || 482 || 351 || ~7 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 390 || < 375 || < 460 || > 350
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 1,310 m || 2,000 hp || 2,440 hp
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 4,572 m || 1,600 hp || 1,952 hp
|-
|}

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


* 12.7 mm Steel - Nose plate
* 8 mm Steel - Under engine armour plate (each nacelle)
* 12.7 mm Steel - Fore/aft nacelle fuel protection plates x 2 (each nacelle)
* 12.7 mm Steel - Fore cockpit armour plate
* 9.5 mm Steel - Cockpit tub
* 9 mm Steel - Pilot/Co-pilot's seat backs
* 12.7 mm Steel - Gunner aft armour plate
* 12.7 mm Steel - Gunner lower armour plate
* 12.7 mm Steel - Aircraft tail armour plate
* 60 mm Bulletproof glass - Pilot

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

Though speed is a factor in survival for the Invader, it should seek to first obtain its diverse payload to allow it to effectively fulfill its intended role. Start off researching the SBC-25, then Fuselage repair. Proceed to research SBC mk.I, the Compressor, and the Radiator. Once you have those three, go for MBC mk.I and Engine. From here-on out, it is personal preference. If you are skilled in using HVAR rockets, research FRC mk.5 at this point, otherwise take Engine injection and Wings repair first. Finally, finish off Airframe and Cover then upgrade your weaponry.

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

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

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

* 8 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine gun, nose-mounted (360 rpg = 2,880 total)
* 6 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine gun, wing-mounted (300 rpg = 1,800 total)

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

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

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

* Without load
* 16 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (1,600 lb total)
* 8 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (2,000 lb total)
* 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
* 4 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 14 x HVAR rockets

=== 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, dorsal turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, ventral turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)

== Usage in battles ==

Though the Invader will suffer in combat versus more nimble single-engine fighters, it still has some tricks it can employ to eke out a victory in the skies. Due to the 14 x M2 Browning machine guns mounted within the nose and on the wings of the aircraft, the A-26B-50 is able to destroy greedy opponents in head-on engagements, even if they are armed with cannons. The A-26B-50 is a very resilient aircraft, similar to other dual-engine aircraft like the [[Beaufighter Mk 21]]. Because of this, the pilot of the Invader can allow his opponent to land some hits in exchange for coming in view of either the A-26's forward facing armaments, or of its two rear-facing turrets. Though M2 Brownings lack the stopping power of cannons such as the 23 mm NS-23 cannon, they are still capable of inflicting immense damage to enemy aircraft, lighting up fuel tanks and disabling key components like control surfaces. This can buy the pilot some breathing room, by forcing enemy fighters to return to base after coming under fire from the Invader's guns.

As a ground attack aircraft, the pilot should seek to employ the A-26B-50's varied payload to full use to ensure his team's victory on the ground. On maps such as Ruhr or Krymsk, the pilot can choose to take out 8 250 lb bombs, or 6 500 lb bombs to take out enemy Light Pillboxes and Pillboxes, and use the numerous M2 Brownings located around the aircraft to strafe AAA emplacements or artillery batteries. When the map lacks ground targets that the Invader can destroy, namely on Norway, the pilot can instead take out the plane's full bomb load of 4 x 1,000 lb bombs, enough to take out bombing targets normally reserved for the team's Heavy Bombers (e.g. [[B-17E/L]])

The final factor to note is that, whilst it is by no means the fastest at its battle rating, the A-26B-50 is quite fast for an aircraft of the attacker role. Though single-engine fighters will catch up to the Invader, it can delay this process by simply opening the throttle and flying directly away from them. This may buy time for allied aircraft to intervene, a safety that other American attackers like the [[PBJ-1J]] before it may not be able to rely on.

Late model aircraft have the ability to intercept the fast A-26B-50, such as the Bf 109 "Gustav" series, the [[Bf 109 K-4]], the Fw 190 A-5, Fw 190 A-8 and any of the Focke Wulf Ta-152s. Any of these aircraft will be able to intercept, and most likely destroy the A-26B, as the majority of them sport the Minengeschoß rounds that will tear the aircraft apart.

=== 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 || Controllable 2 gears || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Impressive forward-facing armament
* Diverse secondary armament
* Highly durable
* Good climb rate
* Two remote-controlled turrets
* Decent energy retention
* Very fast at low altitudes

'''Cons:'''

* Not very manoeuvrable
* Is not mounted with any cannons
* Large silhouette
* Gunner is easily knocked out
* Gunner controls both dorsal and ventral turret. Having him knocked out will result in losing control of both defensive turrets
* Usually explodes pretty soon after catching fire
* Lacks a bombsight

== History ==

In the mid 1930s, Douglas Aircraft analysed contemporaries like the Do 17 and Blenheim, making them gamble on a fast, versatile, and manoeuvrable bomber. The resulting world leading DB-7, A-20 attacker/bomber paid off in immediate orders from France and England if not initially from USA. A great start, the pace of aircraft innovation only accelerated and Douglas knew its world leading design would soon be outdated. Work began on a new design.

Master engineer Edward Heinemann reassembled a team of Robert Donovan and Ted R. Smith from the A-20 program. Most important was aerodynamicist Apollo M.O. Smith who chose the innovative NACA 65-215 laminar flow airfoil that promised better top speed. Laminar Flow was still a radical technology at the time, the yet unproven Mustang Mk 1 was the only production aircraft using the technology. To make this high speed wing also fly slowly for safe landing, a double-slotted flaps system was created, the first production aircraft to use what is now common in all modern jet liners. The wing also had a relatively high aspect ratio for long range performance.

Design features from the breakthrough A-20 design were carried into the A-26. It is easy to spot the family resemblance of the nose gear, high wing, straight fuselage, and dihedral wing and tail. The easily replaceable nose unit, either a solid nose unit or the glass bombardier's unit, was also carried over, the latter used a Norden M-9 bombsight. The engines were also upgraded to the much more powerful Pratt & Whitney R-2800-27 Double Wasp fourteen-cylinder, double-row, radial air-cooled engines. Armaments were now standardized as the Colt-Browning AN/M2 .50 cal machine guns offensively mounted in all versions' noses. All models had space in wing for ammo belts feeding up to four dual gun pods mounted underneath the wing. Versatility was a key point and many other armament options were made, including large cannons and wing-mounted bombs and rockets. A-26's could even carry two torpedoes, however there is no evidence it was ever used operationally. Another key feature was the General Electric remote control turret top and bottom of the attacker, both controlled by a single crewman using a periscope sighting system (a year ahead of a similar system created by the Germans).

The ХА-26 prototype made its first flight on July 10, 1942. Mass production began in September 1943. Parallel production lines started in Douglas, Long Beach (code DL) making the solid nose A-26B, and Douglas, Tulsa making the bombardier nose A-26C (but both could be easily swapped in less than an hour). A total of 2,503 were built.

While praised by the pilots at home, its first trial by fire in May 1944 over New Guinea was less enthusiastic mainly due to limited downward view and other issues soured the Pacific crews. Less than 4 months later, missions in Europe received a completely different response where as a low altitude level bomber it excelled at its operation and easily countered defending Luftwaffe with strong defences or high speed. Over this time, upgrades to the design came about, including a new canopy that improved pilot view with the А-26C-30-DT, and integrating six .50 machine guns into the wings starting with the А-26B-50-DL and А-26C-55-DT.

After WW2 ended only the A-26 was kept in active service, its performance securing its usefulness, but the designation changed to B-26 (causing confusion with the name of the retired B-26 Marauder). When the Korean war started in 1950 the underappreciated attacker suddenly became vital again, heavily employed in day and night attacks against North Korean forces. Conflict did not end with Korea, so the B-26 was now needed elsewhere, but quirk of political nuance forced the name back to the original A-26 so they could be sold to Thailand.

In short, with continuing conflicts and numerous upgrades the A-26 was actively used decades after it first flew, with the last known military mission in 1977.

It was not done with "combat" missions then; however, being actively used to fight wildfires that ravaged parts of the US, Canada, and Australia, immortalized by the 1989 film "Always".

== Media ==


;Skins
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=a-26b Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|E1IDVFUqzrI|'''The Shooting Range #83''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 10:27 discusses the Douglas A-26 Invader.}}

== See also ==


;Related development
* Douglas [[A-20G-25|A-20]] Havoc

;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
* Bristol [[Brigand B 1|Brigand]]
* Junkers [[Ju 288 C|Ju 288]]
* North American [[B-25 (Family)|B-25]] Mitchell
* Tupolev [[Tu-2 (Family)|Tu-2]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/3230--en|[Vehicle Profile] Douglas A-26C]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/355504-a-26b-50-invader/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
* [https://archive.org/details/PilotTrainingManualForTheInvaderA-26/page/n5/mode/2up/ AAF Manual 51-126-1 - Pilot Training Manual for the Invader A-26]

{{AirManufacturer Douglas}}
{{USA strike aircraft}}

Charioteer Mk VII

2022-09-23T13:31:08Z

U41943029: /* Usage in battles */

{{Specs-Card
|code=uk_charioteer_mk_7
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (or just ''Charioteer'') is a rank {{Specs|rank}} British medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]] alongside the rest of the initial British Ground Forces Tree. The Charioteer takes the hull of a [[Cromwell V|Cromwell]] and replaces the turret with a larger one mounting the heavy-hitting [[Ordnance QF 20-pounder Mk.I (84 mm)|84 mm 20-pdr]] cannon, which can deal with the enemies it faces at Rank IV.

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


'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret)
* Cast homogeneous armour (gun mantlet, driver port joint, obturated MG port)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 63.5 mm ''Upper plate'' 63.5 mm (spherical) ''Driver port'' 32 mm ''obturated MG port'' 30 mm (70°) ''Upper glacis'' 57 (19°) ''Lower glacis - Top'' 25.4 mm (65°) ''Lower glacis - Bottom'' || 44 mm ''Top - Front half'' 38 mm + 32 mm (30°) ''Top - Rear half'' 32 mm ''Bottom - Front half'' 25.4 mm ''Bottom - Rear half'' || 32 mm ''Rear plate'' 20 mm (58°) ''Lower glacis'' || 30 mm (20°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm ''Centre'' 14 mm ''Rear''
|-
| Turret || 30 mm (8-18°) ''Turret front'' 20 mm (cylindrical) ''Gun mantlet'' 14 mm ''Turret ring'' || 30 mm (1-18°) 14 mm ''Turret ring'' || 30 mm 14 mm ''Turret ring'' 14 mm (69-75°)''Turret underside'' || 14 mm (0-7°)
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

*Suspension wheels and tracks are 20 mm thick.
*The area where the machine gun port would be has an additional 63 mm of armour placed on it.
* 3 internal structural plates of 5 mm thickness separate:
** the driver compartment in two,
** the driver compartment from the crew compartment,
** the crew compartment from the engine bay.
* These plates have large openings at some places, as visible in X-ray mode.

"Lacking" is the term that comes to mind when thinking about the Charioteer's armour. 63.5 mm of non slopped frontal armour is not enough and the turret armour is only 30 mm thick all around. The turret ring technically can be penetrated by 12.7 mm HMG fire, but not many people will go for that. However, it's best to not get flanked by autocannon-armed tanks (SPAA, late light tanks, etc.).

With only 3 crew members inside, any APHE shot to the turret means instant elimination (RB) or entering crew replenishment mode (AB).

The few advantages of this vehicle are: internal shields (to ensure that at least one crew member survives) and its low ammo load (there are no huge ammo racks everywhere like with the Centurion). Another positive aspect is the presence of improved smoke launchers, equipped with 12 grenades shot in 2 salvos (one forward, one to the sides). They can create a smoke wall in seconds, hiding the Charioteer in an arc of about 200°. These smoke launchers are also found on later British tanks.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=930|rbMinHp=531}}

As said earlier, the {{PAGENAME}} share the hull of a typical Cromwell tank featuring 5 wheels on each side (not like the [[Avenger]] or [[Challenger]], which have the lengthened 6-wheeled chassis). For any experimented British tanker, this tank will be very familiar as it shares the mobility with its predecessors, with maybe a little loss in power due to heavier weight. A negative aspect of the {{PAGENAME}} is its extremely poor reverse speed: only -3 km/h.

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

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

{{main|20pdr OQF Mk.I (84 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[20pdr OQF Mk.I (84 mm)|84 mm 20pdr OQF Mk.I]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 25 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+10° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 17.1 || 23.7 || 28.8 || 31.9 || 33.9 || rowspan="2" | 8.19 || rowspan="2" | 7.25 || rowspan="2" | 6.68 || rowspan="2" | 6.30
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 10.7 || 12.6 || 15.3 || 16.9 || 18.0
|-
|}

The {{PAGENAME}} carries an 84 mm 20pdr gun in a lightly armoured turret protected only with 30 mm RHA box. As the gun is very consequent, the turret traverse is quite slow so one should have to preventively aim towards a corner before going around it. The high penetration power of the gun compensates the poor slewing rate. Plus, even the stock shells has as much penetration as the [[QF 17-pounder (76 mm)|76 mm QF 17pdr]]'s APDS shell found on other Rank III tanks, this only gets better with the upgraded APDS shot, which can pierce up to 262 mm of armour at 500 m distance (or a [[Tiger II (H)]]'s UFP at point-blank range).

The tank commander has the ability to control the weapon if the gunner is knocked out, which is very unusual at the rank and might allow to aggressively trade shots, or even straight up rush some tanks in AB.

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Shot Mk.1 || APCBC || 232 || 229 || 216 || 201 || 187 || 173
|-
| Shot Mk.3 || APDS || 285 || 283 || 262 || 239 || 218 || 198
|-
| Shell Mk.1 || HE || 15 || 15 || 15 || 15 || 15 || 15
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Shot Mk.1 || APCBC || 1,000 || 9.1 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
| Shot Mk.3 || APDS || 1,430 || 3.2 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 75° || 78° || 80°
|-
| Shell Mk.1 || HE || 600 || 7.5 || 0 || 0.1 || 1,130 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="7" | Smoke shell characteristics
|-
! Ammunition
! Velocity (m/s)
! Projectile Mass (kg)
! Screen radius (m)
! Screen deploy time (s)
! Screen hold time (s)
! Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
|-
| 20pdr Shell SS Mk.1 || 250 || 9.3 || 13 || 5 || 20 || 50
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''25''' || 17 ''(+8)'' || 9 ''(+16)'' || 1 ''(+24)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Note''':

* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.

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

{{main|L3A1 (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[L3A1 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm L3A1]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 5,000 (250) || 500 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

The small calibre of the L3A1 machine gun makes it largely ineffective against all armoured vehicles but the ones with an open compartment. It still can be used to ping targets as a rangefinding help or to mow down minor obstacles blocking your line of sight.

== Usage in battles ==


The Charioteer, as with most western tank destroyer, is fitted with a very powerful gun, has good mobility, but is very lightly armoured. As such, it is best to play with its mobility to evade the enemy until the opportune moment. As it uses the same hull as a Cromwell, the reverse speed is atrocious that can make any withdrawal very hard once discovered by the enemy. It is recommended that the Charioteer be used with the forward movement more often, and back up by rotating the entire vehicle before whistling away since the armour back and front is inadequate to deal with any of the tanks you face at its battle rating.

'''Flanking'''

This is a classical sniper/flanker tank: fast, a good gun but no armour. One should never engage in front line fights since most tanks at the rank use APHE and will just blast the Charioteer away. The best way to play this tank is to use range and/or speed as armour, only stopping to take a shot and speed up again. Do not worry about sniping, this cannon has been made for that: shells have a very low ballistic trajectory, and keep good penetration values even at distances. When fired at, move into safety while blasting out these smoke cannisters on the move, creating a large smoke wall for the enemy, leaving some space for your allies to manoeuvre without being noticed.

In urban maps, pre-aim before getting around corners since turret slewing rate is slow. One could also use its engine/transmission as an armour when ambushed: quick reaction shots will often "only" ignite the tank without damaging the crew too much, plus, if the shot is missed, you are already in a position to escape swiftly since frontwards speed is good. When zipping past an alley, blast a smoke screen to cover allies from enemy fire while shooting a hasty shot in the general direction of the enemy. Some enemies will turn their turret in order to protect themselves from flanking only to get shot by allied tanks. Your best weapons in close-range fights are both surprise and speed.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good reload speed without an autoloader
* 20-pdr has access to powerful rounds - AP which can destroy [[Panther D|Panther]] in a single hit and APDS with extreme muzzle velocity and even more penetration, can potentially be played in higher BR games
* Has no ammo in the turret, and commander can use the gun instead of gunner, meaning that even if intercepted, the Charioteer still has an extremely high chance of taking down enemy tanks with itself (even more likely in AB)
* Decent gun optics for the rank, but difficult to use with APDS
* Very speedy tank due to Cromwell chassis, can fill a role of a medium support tank for rushing capture points
* Arguably the best turreted tank destroyer at Rank IV, with benefits of a medium tank (can call artillery)
* Good smoke screen system with a useful spreading angle; great for retreats
* Very low risk of fire due to rear mounted transmission and no fuel tanks on the front of the tank.

'''Cons:'''

* As with all Cromwell chassis, reverse speed is awful
* Extremely vulnerable to APHE, even the angled roof top which is supposed to bounce shots will not stop it
* Only 3 crew members, easy crew knock out in RB
* Low post-penetration damage with APDS due to punctual damage
* Poor gun depression and elevation (-5° to 10°)
* Unstable gun platform; must short-stop or slow down before firing precisely
* Very poor ammo capacity; on the co-op Tank Assault mode, this forces to stay close to repair bonuses, which can eventually backfire

== History ==


===Development===
After World War II, the Western Allies prepared plans to repel a possible invasion by the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Britain called for its Royal Armoured Corps formation to be stationed at West Germany with their tank units. However, due to the low number of the newer [[Centurion Mk 3|Centurion tank]], the armoured corps were to be equipped with the more plentiful [[Cromwell V|Cromwell]] cruiser tank. Due to the deficiency of the Cromwell in the face of the much stronger Soviet tanks, it was required to upgrade the tank with a 20-pounder gun, the same one used on the Centurion at the time. However, the gun mounting required a new turret to accommodate the gun, and the limited space restricted the turret crew to only two crew members. This vehicle with the 20-pounder turret would be known as the '''Charioteer'''.

===Design===
The improvement on the Cromwell focused only on its offensive armaments. Armour was not taken into priority and the turret used very thin armour ranging from 20 to 30 mm thick. Some Charioteers were given additional welded armour over the hull for improved protection. The turret mounted the 84 mm 20-pounder gun with a 7.62 mm Browning machine gun as a coaxial weapon. Smoke dischargers were attached to the left and right of the turret, and a flap on the rear of the turret allow the removal of fired ammunition casings from the turret interior. To mount the larger turret, the turret ring was increased to the limits of the Cromwell's hull width, requiring the turret to have a larger profile to make up the room needed for it. Despite this enlargement, ammunition stowage was limited, the hull machine gunner position was removed to make additional room for the large ammunition, but only allowed 25 rounds to be carried inside the tank. Primary ammunition carried in the tank were high-explosive and armour-piercing discarding-sabot (APDS) rounds.

The Cromwell tanks were converted to Charioteers at the Robinson & Kershaw Ltd at Dukinfield, Cheshire. The first order was for 630 vehicles in 1951, but the production was cut short at a later time. The first 200 were delivered in March 1953 and another 200 the next year. The total number produced is believed to be around 442 vehicles.

===Service life===
The Charioteers were assigned to the Royal Armoured Corps unit in the British Territorial Army in West Germany. In practice, the vehicle's three man crew was increased to a fourth additional man due to the restricted visibility inside the tank. The fourth crew member was to act as an external observer like a commander to pick out targets. The high profile turret on the Charioteer was beneficial in providing a good hull down position to fire at the targets. Despite that, the Charioteers never saw combat action in the British forces before being fully replaced by the [[Centurion Mk 3|Centurion]].

The surplus vehicles were sold to Austria, Finland, Jordan, and Lebanon. The vehicles saw more action in the Six-Day war in the middle east in the Arab countries surrounding Israel. It is suspected that the Charioteers continue to see action in the many conflicts in the middle east region.

During its service life, the Charioteer saw many upgrades, such as one using an improved 20-pounder which has a fume extractor along the barrel. In Jordanian use, the Charioteer upgraded the turret traverse motors and also allowed a mounting of a .50 caliber machine gun. In 1969, the Charioteer saw an up-gunning with the Royal Ordnance L7 105 mm gun, though only one was produced for trials. This was intended for export, but never saw service.

===Survivors===
About six Charioteers exist in intact condition in the world. One is in Austria in the Museum of Military History. Two are in Finland in outdoor display in the Parola tank museum and the Army Academy in Lappeenranta. One is in Israel in the Yad la-Shiryon Museum. Two more are in the United Kingdom, with one normal one in the Bovington Tank Museum and the 105 mm Charioteer variant at the East of England Tank Museum.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=uk_charioteer_mk_7 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|o8cbjw-Izo4|'''I Shouldn't Have Ignored This Tank: {{PAGENAME}} Tank Destroyer''' - ''Virus''|B_0eXR9QGb0|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== See also ==


;Vehicles equipped with the same chassis

* [[Cromwell (Family)]]

;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Avenger]]
* [[Challenger]]

== External links ==


* [[wikipedia:Charioteer_(tank)|[Wikipedia] Charioteer (tank)]]
* [https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/coldwar/UK/FV-4101_charioteer_tank_destroyer.php <nowiki>[Tanks Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Fv 401 Charioteer]

{{Britain medium tanks}}

Kim Qui

2022-09-01T18:58:46Z

U41943029: /* Pros and cons */

{{Specs-Card
|code=us_pgm_59_class
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

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

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

''Talk about the vehicle's armour. Note the most well-defended and most vulnerable zones, e.g. the ammo magazine. Evaluate the composition of components and assemblies responsible for movement and manoeuvrability. Evaluate the survivability of the primary and secondary armaments separately. Don't forget to mention the size of the crew, which plays an important role in fleet mechanics. Save tips on preserving survivability for the "Usage in battles" section. If necessary, use a graphical template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.''

=== Mobility ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Mobility}}

''Write about the ship's mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward and reverse speed.''

{{NavalMobility}}

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

== Armament ==
{{Specs-Fleet-Armaments}}
=== Primary armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Primary}}

{{main|Bofors L/60 Mark 3 (40 mm)}}

''Provide information about the characteristics of the primary armament. Evaluate their efficacy in battle based on their reload speed, ballistics and the capacity of their shells. Add a link to the main article about the weapon: <code><nowiki>{{main|Weapon name (calibre)}}</nowiki></code>. Broadly describe the ammunition available for the primary armament, and provide recommendations on how to use it and which ammunition to choose.''

=== Secondary armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-Secondary}}

{{main|20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II (20 mm)}}

''Some ships are fitted with weapons of various calibres. Secondary armaments are defined as weapons chosen with the control <code>Select secondary weapon</code>. Evaluate the secondary armaments and give advice on how to use them. Describe the ammunition available for the secondary armament. Provide recommendations on how to use them and which ammunition to choose. Remember that any anti-air armament, even heavy calibre weapons, belong in the next section. If there is no secondary armament, remove this section.''

=== Anti-aircraft armament ===
{{Specs-Fleet-AA}}

{{main|AN-M2 (12.7 mm)}}

''An important part of the ship's armament responsible for air defence. Anti-aircraft armament is defined by the weapon chosen with the control <code>Select anti-aircraft weapons</code>. Talk about the ship's anti-air cannons and machine guns, the number of guns and their positions, their effective range, and about their overall effectiveness – including against surface targets. If there are no anti-aircraft armaments, remove this section.''

== Usage in battles ==

''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don't try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).''

=== 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:'''
* Has a powerful 40mm gun
* Has two mounts for dual 20mm guns

'''Cons:'''
* Blind spot directly forward for 40mm gun, angling vessel is necessary
* Shallow draft makes it impossible to consistently hit targets in rough seas
* Top speed of 32 km/h in RB, will struggle to cross large maps
* Low crew count of 17 crew members
* Will face destroyers without enough armament to combat destroyers

== History ==

''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ship 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 ship and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Ship-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 ship's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''

== Media ==

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

== See also ==

''Links to articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''

== External links ==

''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''other literature.''

{{ShipManufacturer J.M. Martinac}}
{{USA boats}}

Ki-84 ko

2022-01-17T23:53:07Z

U41943029: /* Usage in battles */

{{About
| about = Japanese fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Ki-84 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=ki_84_ko
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.37]].

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

The Ki-84 ko is the first truly fast aeroplane in the Japanese tech tree. Equipped with a 2,000 hp engine, this aircraft's performance is on par with that of the legendary P-51 Mustang. However, unlike the Mustang, the Ki-84 has slightly better turning characteristics and climb rate thanks to its lighter weight. This being said, the Ki-84 also has good energy retention, so try to make your opponent bleed energy to have an edge. The Ki-84 was also one of the first mass-produced Japanese aircraft to come equipped with armoured glass, armour plates and self-sealing fuel tanks, but the armour is still lacklustre compared to its Russian and American counterparts. However, as always, not everything is perfect. The aircraft controls stiffen significantly at speeds above 630 km/h, making even slight adjustments to heading impossible. Thus, at higher speeds, its elevator suffers. The Ki-84 also suffers a lot when no modules are researched, making the aircraft almost useless until modifications are unlocked.

This aircraft should be played as it appears: a lightweight Japanese version of the Mustang, retaining good engine performance, decent climb-rate, high diving performance, but relatively lacklustre armament.

{| 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
| 669 || 650 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 20.2 || 20.8 || 14.1 || 14.1 || rowspan="2" | 421
|-
! Upgraded
| 718 || 692 || 19.1 || 19.4 || 22.6 || 17.9
|-
|}

==== 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 !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 470 || 431 || 280 || ~13 || ~10
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 400 || < 480 || < 430 || > 324
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Compressor
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
! Setting 1
| 2,000 m || 1,875 hp || 2,100 hp
|-
! Setting 2
| 5,300 m || 1,675 hp || 1,876 hp
|-
|}

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


* 70 mm bulletproof glass in front of pilot
* 6 mm steel behind pilot's head
* 13 mm steel behind pilot
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 under pilot's feet, 1 in each wingroot)

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

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

{{main|Ho-5 (20 mm)|Ho-103 (12.7 mm)}}

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

* 2 x 20 mm Ho-5 cannons, wing-mounted (150 rpg = 300 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm Ho-103 machine guns, nose-mounted (350 rpg = 700 total)

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

{{main|Army Type 94 GPHE (50 kg)|Army Type 92 GPHE (250 kg)}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (100 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bombs (500 kg total)

== Usage in battles ==


'''Realistic Battles'''

The Ki-84 ko is a very good multi-purpose fighter, its capable of energy fighting and sustained dog fighting making it a menace to face with few enemies matching it, it takes a rather skilled pilot to shake these off as they have great turn fighting capabilities, good climb rate and a decent top speed for their BR.

It is important to remember that when uptiered, you will be fighting aircraft such as the [[Spitfire F Mk 22]], which is faster both in a straight line and in a shallow or steep dive, the best way to reliable deal with this threat is to coax your enemy into a rolling scissors or sustained dog fight as the Spitfire F Mk 22 does not have a faster turn rate than the Ki-84 ko, alternatively if they do not dog fight and they are above you, you can force an over-shoot with some defensive flying and catch the Spitfire either as it passes or when it starts to go back up into its climb thanks to the Ki-84 ko's good climb rate.

The Ki-84 ko is not very well armoured at all and should avoid any head on engagements or well defended aircraft such as [[B-24D-25-CO|B-24s]] as it is rather fragile to enemy fire. The weaponry isn't spectacular either and may require a bit of practice as they are rather lacklustre compared to other planes you will fight.

As a Ki-84 pilot your safest bet is to climb above your opponents and pick and choose your battles, often a good strategy to use is to hunt down the highest altitude enemies and pick them off one by one, remember not to waste all the altitude you have obtained as altitude is your friend in the Ki-84, whether you prefer Boom and Zoom or Dogfighting, the Ki-84 ko is sure to please you.

'''Simulator Battles'''

In Simulator, the Ki-84 is overall a decent plane to fly. It enjoys lovely visibility towards the rear, sides, above, and over the nose, giving the pilot great situational awareness. It has nice handling, good climb rate, great speed and acceleration. Armament-wise, the guns have enough fire rate to put quite a few projectiles into the target in one pass. However the Ki-84's disadvantages are the limited damage, rudder efficiency at high speeds, the rather poor roll rate, and the compass at the front-right of the gunsight that can obstruct your view. This aircraft can be used in BnZ fighting, turn fighting, intercepting (to some extent) and some ground pounding.

Before taking off, bring at least 30 minutes of fuel for longer patrol time. Set the convergence to around 250 m since your weapons have low velocity, therefore needing more precise aim at longer range. While your Ki-84 roars down the runway, you will notice that it shifts severely to the left, thus you must put rudder input to the right to taxi straight. As with other Ki series aircraft, only elevator trim is available, so when the stick is at its deadzone, the Ki-84 will roll and yaw to the left side. Therefore you always need to pull the stick a little to the right which can get a bit annoying. Usually, trim for around -1% when cruising around 470 km/h, around -5% when diving around 600 km/h, and when fighting at around 400 km/h no negative trim is needed. When carrying the 2 x 250 kg bombload, no negative trim is needed as well. Landing characteristics are forgiving: cut throttle to make sure you are not above 350 km/h before touchdown. Deploy combat then takeoff flaps to further decelerate in preparation for extending landing gears. Extend at around 260 km/h, control your descend rate throughout. Right before touchdown, deploy landing flaps. The gears are quite sturdy. You can break until the plane reaches full stop and not worry about propeller strike.

For dogfighting, it is always safer to enter with an altitude advantage. Most dogfights in Sim happen around or below 3,000 m so the Ki-84 can easily climb up to that altitude. Once at an advantageous height, boom & zoom the enemies. The Ki-84 can easily accelerate to more than 550 km/h in a dive which is decently fast but requires more precise manoeuvres to get the correct lead, since the faster you go the smaller the shooting window is. Important note: when fighting above 550 km/h, you want to be more precise in the roll and pitch axis, since at this speed the rudder locks up severely, preventing you from making aim adjustments which negatively impacts the lead. You must pretend that your rudder doesn't exist and fully rely on the ailerons and elevators to lead. A successful pass will not usually cripple the enemy given the projectiles' lacklustre damage, so multiple attacks are needed to destroy one plane. Aside from BnZ, the Ki-84 is also excellent at turn fighting - with the appropriate opponent, of course. Except a few dedicated turn fighters, the Ki-84 can out-turn and get on most opponents' tail with combat/takeoff flaps deployed, and can sustain its turning ability throughout the fight. The Ki-84's stable handling allows you to pull some tight manoeuvres, so don't worry too much about flat spins. If you become a prey, try some defensive manoeuvres like barrel rolls or disengage by diving steeply towards a nearby friendly airfield. Note that the Ki-84's roll rate is very average so avoid manoeuvres like scissors.

When performing the "destroy enemy surveillance aircraft/attackers/bombers" task, it is crucial to constantly evade the turrets. If it is a bomber/attacker with decent defensive firepower or robust protection, then you might want to disengage after some attempts if you don't want to die. Pay special attention to any plane equipped with M2 Browning MG, they can critically damage the Ki-84 especially on the engine, fuel tanks, and pilot which can always lead to a later crash. Before attacking try to get an altitude advantage and perform deflection shots. To maximise the damage it is better to aim for their wings and engines, as the fuselage usually soaks up quite some bullets. Only fire when the bomber passes in front of your guns. This short window is not enough to cripple a twin-engine aircraft given the slow velocity, light projectiles and low one-second burst mass. However sometimes it only takes one bullet to set the target aflame. DO NOT follow behind a bomber's 6 unless you are sure that its tail gunners are unconscious. Chasing behind a bomber makes yourself pretty much stationary for the tail gunners, and you will be showered with bullets.

For ground pounding, the best loadout is the 2 x 250 kg bombs. With an extra 500 kg of weight attached outside, the Ki-84 handles much clumsier during take offs, especially on the roll axis. Longer distance is needed before lifting off. It is quite easy to drop bombs accurately with a Ki-84 because this aircraft is able to quickly accelerate above 550 km/h in a dive, the bombs will travel an almost straight line towards the target, therefore you can aim the gunsight directly at the target and expect the bombs to land very close. After bombs away, immediately pull up. The 2 MGs perform well in killing trucks, AA guns and artilleries as they have plenty of ammo, but avoid wasting cannon shells. However, constantly watch your surrounding, especially your high 6 for any incoming enemies.

'''Enemies worth noting:'''

* [[Me 264]]: The Me 264 is armed with large calibre MG and cannons all over it, therefore tailing a 264 is basically suicide unless all of their gunners are knocked out. You can treat the 264 almost like a B-29 or B-17 as they are very similar in both design and defensive capabilities. It is best to head-on the 264 if you can as you can easily knock out the pilots due to its glazed nose while also taking minimal damage. However the bomber lacks a ventral turret on its belly, making it easy to deal damage from below, but be wary of the downwards facing rear 20 mm cannon near the tail. The safest way to attack is from a higher altitude, dive at an oblique angle and focus fire on the wings and nose. Never engage if you have no altitude advantage. Looking somewhat similar to a B-17, an Me 264 has huge back-swept wings with 2 engines on each, and a H-tail which differentiates it from a B-17/B-29.
* [[Yak-3 (Family)|Yak-3]]: this is a capable dogfighter or BnZ fighter that can be a huge threat. Although its firepower is not deadly, it can still critically damage a Ki-84. It is able to fly or dive at similar speeds, and can even engage a turn fight with a Ki-84 that is using takeoff flaps. The Yak-3 has a straight dorsal line housing an inline engine, a bubble canopy with a huge cooling intake sticking out the belly, and its symbolic, triangular wings.
* [[A6M (Family)|A6M]], [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]], etc: If you see these turn fighters on your tail try outrunning them by diving at around -40 degrees. The Ki-84 still remains responsive handling at 600 km/h, but its speed retention is not the best, meaning it will start to lose speed quickly and the enemy might catch up. If you are near a friendly airfield, great. If not, then hope for the best and run towards the friendly side. A Spitfire also has an uncurved dorsal outline and large, elliptical wings. A Zero has a radial engine that's usually painted black, rounded wingtips and stabiliser tips followed by a pointy tail.
* [[Ju 288 C]]: this is a very common bomber in air RB. Their tactics generally fall into two styles: shallow dive bombing and conventional climbing. For the ones that shallow dive towards a bomb base at the start of the match, think twice before engaging. The Ju 288 is very fast for a bomber, being able to reach >500 km/h in a shallow dive which makes it quite hard for an attacker to BnZ it, as it will be slow to catch up to it, giving it long enough time to shoot back. The Ki-84 locks up past 550 km/h, plus the mediocre damage, it is best to leave it for heavy-punching teammates. As for the Ju 288 that climb, do not engage if you have no altitude advantage. It has numerous guns with great downward coverage, posing a big threat to the fragile Ki-84.

=== 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 || Controllable 2 gears || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Incredible rate of climb compared to other fighters such as the [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61 series]] and the [[A7M2]]
* Effective top speed and energy retention allowing for the effective use of "boom and zoom" tactics
* Great acceleration allowing speed to be regained quickly after duels
* Reasonable performance at high altitude
* Much better dive speed than the earlier Ki-61 series
* Good manoeuvrability at lower speeds
* Jack of all trades: nimble yet quick while having a good degree of energy retention, allows this fighter to hold its own against any fighter that it may encounter
* Good energy retention
* Thanks to its lack of canopy frames, a clear all-round canopy view especially over the nose gives it a huge advantage in simulator.
* Center of mass is behind main landing gears, allowing it to break continuously until it stops. Does not need to worry about propeller strike
* Engine cools down fairly quickly when overheated

'''Cons:'''

* Lower maximum dive speed than its American counterparts such as F-82
* The "jack of all trades, master of none" character of this aircraft makes it difficult to play as pilots will need to adapt their play-style to counter specific aircraft that they are facing, subsequently requiring a fair degree of knowledge over the strengths and weaknesses of each aircraft that they will encounter
* Unspectacular weaponry
* Somewhat vulnerable to damage
* Reasonably slow roll-rate causing this fighter to be vulnerable against Japanese fighters or the Fw 190's which are the typical opponents
* Severe lock-up of the rudder above 500 km/h renders dive bombing or high speed boom and zoom less effective
* Elevator locks up at high speeds

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

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ki_84_ko Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|F9FL6xGoSv0|'''Ki-84 Otsu - Nippon All Rounder''' - ''AdamTheEnginerd''|6aL7priUygY|'''Ki-84 ko Hayate - One of the best all around fighters''' - ''Green Fury''}}

== 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/111031-nakajima-ki-84-i-ko/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Nakajima}}
{{Japan fighters}}

A6M5 Ko

2022-01-15T23:30:27Z

U41943029: /* Usage in battles */

{{About
| about = Japanese gift fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = A6M (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=a6m5ko
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|store=3296
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. This plane is nearly identical to the tech tree counterpart [[A6M5]] with an exception of extra 50 rounds of ammunition for its 20 mm guns.

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


As with the other A6M5 variants, the A6M5 Ko features an improved exhaust system that gives the plane more thrust and acceleration. While this does not help the Zero to catch up with any enemy fighters, it helps to retain the plane's energy rather well which will certainly be a great asset in a dogfight.

Although this variant of Zero has a good climb rate, the Zero's limited top speed and frail airframe makes it ill-suited for bomber hunting and boom-and-zoom tactics. The aforementioned weak airframe also worsens the Zero's manoeuvrability when the plane reaches a speed of 600 km/h in a dive.
{| 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
| 521 || 503 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 16.6 || 17.2 || 13.4 || 13.4 || rowspan="2" | 190
|-
! Upgraded
| 563 || 540 || 15.8 || 16.0 || 21.4 || 16.9
|-
|}

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

{| 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}} || 397 || 368 || 220 || ~14 || ~6
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 280 || < 420 || < 410 || > 336
|-
|}

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


* No armour protection
* Non-self-sealing fuel tanks

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

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

{{main|Type 99 Model 2 (20 mm)|Type 97 navy (7.7 mm)}}

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

* 2 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 2 cannons, wing-mounted (125 rpg = 250 total)
* 2 x 7.7 mm Type 97 navy machine guns, nose-mounted (700 rpg = 1,400 total)

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

{{main|Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)|Navy Type Number 25 Model 2 (250 kg)}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 bombs (120 kg total)
* 1 x 250 kg Navy Type Number 25 Model 2 bomb (250 kg total)

== Usage in battles ==


The Zero is outclassed by everything it faces in terms of speed. The only thing left to hang on to is its famous manoeuvrability. More than ever, the key is to exploit its nimbleness to force the enemy to make mistakes. Every single aircraft in this battle-rating is faster - the [[P-47N-15]] is both faster in a straight line and in a dive - meaning the slow {{PAGENAME}} will have limited opportunities to engage. It is not common to see enemies turn fight with a Zero, but most will break away and attempt to flee. As such, the {{PAGENAME}}'s best bet is to try and end the fight quickly with good shot placement and lead so that the A6M5 Ko can dis-engage before its target flees. During the downtime if the enemy plane continues fleeing or was shot down, start re-climbing to prepare for engaging new targets that approaches the {{PAGENAME}}.

The Zero's infamous reputation for catching fire after being shot by any incendiary rounds continue - the lack of armour is detrimental to the Zero meaning if it gets hit, it's likely going to be fatal. This means the pilot needs to do their best to dodge all shots coming the {{PAGENAME}}'s way by utilizing the Zero's incredible manoeuvrability. Remember to turn into the enemy to spoil their aim. With good shot placement, the {{PAGENAME}}'s weaponry can dispatch foes as they pass by due to the amazing turn time on the Zero. Then, it's a simple matter of getting onto their six and taking small, accurate bursts at the opponent. The {{PAGENAME}} can also frustrate its enemies by constantly evading all of their attempts to force head-ons, or the A6M5 Ko can dive down on unsuspecting pilots as the Zero still has quite a good climb rate compared to other aircraft of its battle rating.

* In Simulator, the A6M Zero is overall a great plane to fly. Its advantages include the extremely smooth handling, impressive turn rate, low stall speed, the ability to not enter spins in extreme manoeuvres, decent rear visibility, and increased cannon ammo capacity. It is able to pull really tight turns or barrel rolls without losing control or going into a spin, allowing the player to use this stability to their advantage. Its disadvantages, however, are the fragile protection, wing-mounted guns, and the cockpit scattered with frames. Although not thick, these frames can still be obstructions in a fight. Also the gunsight is small and mounted very low, resulting in inadequate visibility over the nose. This can limit the player's ability to see the target in a turn fight since to lead the target, the player must cut inside its turn, meaning the nose will now block the target. The A6M can perform dogfighting, some ground pounding and some intercepting.

* You can bring the minimum amount of fuel (29 minutes) since this model of the Zero only has a 100-round drum per cannon, as a result you might need to constantly return to airfield to reload so there is no need to bring more fuel. Set the convergence to 150-300 m. When taking off, the A6M will shift severely to the left so it is best to set separate keybind for left and right brakes to counter the torque.
* For dogfighting, it is better to engage with an altitude advantage so climb to around 2,500 m. Track the opponent using lead or pure pursuit, as with lag pursuit you will eventually end up at the 6'o clock of the target aircraft whose fuselage will soak up most of your MG bullets, and your wing mounted cannons will become really awkward to aim. With the amazing stableness the aim should be easy. Target their wings or nose and avoid the back half of the fuselage as there is usually nothing in there. You can turn with most planes with your combat/takeoff flaps deployed. Note that it is best to fire in 10-round/one-second bursts to avoid wasting cannon rounds. Once the cannons are out, the leftover 7.7 mm MGs can only effectively damage single engine fighters.

* For ground pounding with bombs, look for tanks and pillboxes. First you need some separation between you and the target so you have enough time to line-up the drop. Dive at the target at a rather shallow angle, and release the 60 kg bombs when you are very close, with the target below the gunsight and filling up around half of it. For the 250kg, drop it with the gunsight slightly more above the target. If you only use the MGs, your targets are trucks, AAA and howitzers. Dive at it and stabilise the plane so the gunsight stays overall still at the target. Then, once the target fills out around 1/6 of the gunsight, open fire. If your aim is accurate you can destroy one target in a single pass. However, it is very recommended to set keybind for firing MG only as you can definitely not waste the valuable cannon rounds. Save them for any unexpected dogfights.
* Landing is easy thanks to the low stall speed and lovely handling. Line up and approach the airstrip at treetop, decrease speed to at most 210 km/h and deploy combat, takeoff and landing flaps in order. Further decelerate so the touchdown speed is no more than 180 km/h to avoid bouncing up. Keep braking until the plane reaches a full stop, you don't have to worry about the nose dipping down and causing a propeller strike.

'''Enemies worth noting:'''

* P-61: this plane is one tough nut to crack. It is quite fast, packs a fatal punch, has a searching radar, and a deadly turret on top. The turret consists of 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns that cover the upper half of the plane, and most P-61 players tend to fly low or get you into their upper half to target you with the turret. Avoid being above them at all costs, utilise the Zero's manoeuvrability and sneak under their belly. Its appearance resembles a P-38: a center fuselage with two engine nacelles extending backwards and forming the twin tail like a frame, you will know it is a Black Widow and not a Lightning when red tracer bullets start shooting out from it.

* F4U, F6F, P-47, etc: these planes are a huge threat to the late Zeros as they have superior firepower, speed, dive acceleration and robust airframes. Their 12.7 mm MGs can easily tear you apart or simply pilot-snipe you even when they are far away, as the M2 Brownings have great velocity and trajectory. They can also set you aflame easily. Start a turnfight whenever you see these stubby planes. The F4U has a long cylindrical nose and the iconic inverted gull wing. The P-47 has a huge, jug-like fuselage, bubble canopy and elliptical trailing edge that usually have invasion stripes painted on them. The F6F, on the other hand, might get confused with other planes as it looks rather average.

* Spitfires: their turn time will come close to the A6M5. They are fast, and can boom and zoom. To avoid them, don't panic when they are spotted trying to boom and zoom. Counter by pretending that they have not been noticed, lulling them into a false sense of security. Then, just as they fire the first shots, dodge them, and head upwards and loop around to take the shot on them. The Spitfires have a streamlined nose with the iconic large, elliptical wings.
* P-51: their machine guns can do severe damage to the A6M5. However, a common tendency of novice P-51 pilots is to get into a manoeuvring fight with the A6M5. Simply dodge their attacks, do a loop to get on their tail, and take shots at the opportune moments. Even better, when beating them in a turn fight, their aircraft's top profile are fully exposed, allowing for a larger surface area to be shot up and even the cockpit to hit the pilot inside.
* Yak 3/9: their 20 mm cannons are devastating if they hit. Do not try to head on them, just dodge the attacks by looping around the bullets, get on their tail, and shoot them before they get away!

=== 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 || Controllable 2 gears || Not controllable
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* '''A'''6M for Carrier-based fighter:
** Strictly air-to-air role
*** Gets 2x [[Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)|Type 97 No.6 Land Bomb (60kg)]], but strongly ill-advised for air-battles
** Decent cannon armament
** Extremely manoeuvrable
*** Excellent turn rate
*** Excellent roll rate
** Very short takeoff distance

* Common Navy plane construction:
** Decent offensive armament: [[Type 99 Model 2 (20 mm)|20 mm Type 99 Model 2 Cannon]]
*** ''Ground Targets'': Great for Ground battles
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
:::* AP-I:
::::* Shreds soft targets, and can weaken / destroy weak top armored tanks, especially engine decks
::::* Easily sets fire to air targets
:::* HEF(T):
::::* Tracer can help you aim on target
::::* The few rounds in the belt can still wreck havoc on enemy planes with their HE filler
</div>

::* ''Stealth'': Great for Air battles
<div class="mw-collapsible mw-collapsed">
:::* No tracers
:::* HEF:
::::* Near full HE belt
::::* Wrecks havoc on enemy planes with HE filler
:::* AP-I:
::::* Easily sets fire to air targets
</div>

:* Excellent manoeuvrability
:* Nose mounted armament
:* Small radiator drag

* '''A6M5''' specific:
** Good climb rate
** Can mount a bomb rack for a single 250 kg bomb, still strongly ill-advised for air-battles

'''Cons:'''

* '''A'''6M for Carrier-based fighter:
** Strictly air-to-air role
** Limited ammo
** Slow
** Low dive speed, and easily compressed in a dive

* Common Navy plane construction:
** Poor MG offensive armament: [[Type 97 navy (7.7 mm)|7.7 mm Type 97 MG]]
** Poor offensive armament when stock: [[Type 99 Model 2 (20 mm)|20 mm Type 99 Model 2 Cannon]]
*** No HE filler
*** T & FI rounds usually do nothing
** Fragile, little armour, and no self-sealing fuel tanks

== History ==


=== In-game description ===
Mitsubishi Type 0 Model 52 "Kou" (A6M5 Model 52a, reporting names: Zeke/Hamp/Zero) single-engine carrier-based fighter

In the middle of 1942, the Allies in the Pacific Ocean Theatre took the offensive, while the Japanese were more and more often on the defensive. In 1943, new types of high-speed fighters entered service with the USAAF and the USNAF, and they outperformed the Zeros in many respects. Low survivability, the main disadvantage of the Japanese aircraft, was made clear in the fierce air duels between the planes. The fighter's flight characteristics also required some improvement, and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries designers began to upgrade the A6M again in August 1943.

The Zero received a smaller-area wing (with a span of only 11 m) with rounded tips. The wing folding mechanism was removed. To increase the plane's allowable diving speed, its wing surface skin was reinforced.

Since more powerful engines were not yet available, the designers had to make the most of a Nakajima Sakae 21 engine. Every pair of cylinders was given an individual exhaust pipe instead of a common heavy exhaust manifold. This added exhaust gas thrust to the propeller thrust, which resulted in a higher aircraft speed. The fuselage skin had to be reinforced with steel sheets in the area of the pipes, since the hot exhaust gases quickly burned through thin duralumin.

The new version of the aircraft was designated Model 52 (A6M5 Model 52). The plane became slightly heavier, but its maximum speed at a height of 6,000 m reached 565 km/h. This was the speed limit for the Zero, since all further modifications made to the machine only increased its weight and, consequently, reduced its maximum speed.

The next stage in upgrading the Zero was the Model 52 "Kou" (A6M5a Model 52a). This improvement significantly reinforced the plane's armament by replacing the wing-mounted Type 99-2 Model 3 drum-fed cannons (with 100 rounds each) with Type 99-2 Model 4 belt-fed cannons (with 125 rounds). This added 25 rounds per cannon and slightly improved the plane's rate of fire. Now the fighter's armament consisted of two synchronous 7.7 mm Type 97 machine guns with 500 rounds each plus two wing-mounted 20 mm Type 99-2 Model 4 cannons with 125 rounds each.

The A6M5a fighter could carry bombs: two 60 kg (132 lb) bombs suspended under the wing and one weighing 250 kg (551 kb) under the fuselage.

In addition, the A6M5a's wing structure was reinforced yet again, which resulted in a maximum allowable diving speed of 740 km/h. However, this was still inferior to the diving speed of the American F4U fighter.

Mass production of the A6M5a variant began in March 1944. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries manufactured 391 machines. An additional unknown quantity of this variant was built by Nakajima Aircraft.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=a6m5ko Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|V_5hzA-h2eI|'''In Allied Skies - A6M5 Ko''' - ''Napalmratte''|YADf8ptP77A|'''Premium Review: A6M5 Ko [Turn & Burn Baby]''' - ''Jengar''}}

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Vought [[F4U (Family)|F4U]] Corsair
* Reggiane [[Re.2001 (Family)|Re.2001]]
* Supermarine [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]]
* Hawker [[Hurricane (Family)|Sea Hurricane]]

== External links ==


* [[Wikipedia:Mitsubishi_A6M_Zero#A6M5_Type_0_Model_52|[Wikipedia] A6M5 Type 0 Model 52]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/295065-mitsubishi-a6m5/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer Mitsubishi}}
{{Japan fighters}}
{{Japan premium aircraft}}

M3 GMC

2021-12-20T22:53:45Z

U41943029: /* Development */

{{About
| about = American tank destroyer '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| other
| usage-1 = other half-track vehicles based on the M3
| link-1 = M3 Half-Track (Family)
| usage-2 = other uses
| link-2 = M3 (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_halftrack_m3_75mm_gmc
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' ('''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''') is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American tank destroyer {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.49 "Weapons of Victory"]]. An M3 half-track with a 75 mm gun on its rear, the M3 GMC packs a punch against its rivals.

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

Just about any enemy is deadly to the 75 mm GMC M3, as the armour will only stop small-calibre machine gun rounds. Every tank cannon will penetrate the armour. Vehicles with autocannons or heavy machines guns are often the deadliest for the crew, especially strafing aircraft. The vehicle can also be easily destroyed by overpressure: HE shells and artillery strikes are thus very dangerous.

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour
* Structural steel (back side)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 6.35 mm (31°) || 6.35 mm || 6.35 mm || N/A
|-
| Turret (Gun shield) || 12.7 mm || 12.7 mm || N/A || 12.7 mm
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Tracks are 7 mm thick.
* Road wheels are 2 mm of rubber.
* Structural chassis thickness is 15 mm throughout.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=210|rbMinHp=131}}

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

As with all tanks, Parts and FPE should be your first priority. After that you may want to pick up the M61 shot for an overall much more lethal round, with better penetration and some explosive filler. Beyond that, crew replenishment should be a priority; how you get there is personal preference between mobility improvements or gun handling. Both paths have merit, but seeing as the role of the M3 is more of a longer range support vehicle, gun handling would likely provide a greater benefit for most players.

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

{{main|M1897A4 (75 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M1897A4 (75 mm)|75 mm M1897A4]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 60 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+29° || rowspan="2" | -19°/+21° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 5.3 || 7.3 || 8.9 || 9.8 || 10.5 || rowspan="2" | 7.80 || rowspan="2" | 6.90 || rowspan="2" | 6.36 || rowspan="2" | 6.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 3.6 || 4.2 || 5.1 || 5.6 || 6.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| M72 shot || AP || 89 || 86 || 76 || 65 || 56 || 48
|-
| M48 shell || HE || 10 || 10 || 10 || 10 || 10 || 10
|-
| M61 shot || APCBC || 102 || 99 || 88 || 77 || 67 || 58
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| M72 shot || AP || 609 || 6.3 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
| M48 shell || HE || 594 || 6.3 || 0 || 0.1 || 666 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| M61 shot || APCBC || 609 || 6.79 || 1.2 || 14 || 63.7 || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="7" | Smoke shell characteristics
|-
! Ammunition
! Velocity (m/s)
! Projectile Mass (kg)
! Screen radius (m)
! Screen deploy time (s)
! Screen hold time (s)
! Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
|-
| M89 || 259 || 3 || 13 || 5 || 20 || 50
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''60''' || 31 ''(+29)'' || 1 ''(+59)'' || Yes
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The 75 mm GMC M3 cannot go toe-to-toe with other tanks due to the lack of protection for the crew and insufficient armour layout. The armour can only stop rifle-calibre rounds from machine guns, and could possibly deflect 12.7 mm rounds off the frontal arc, but this vehicle was never designed to fight other tanks head-to-head. Its play style may generally confuse new or inexperienced players, as they would bring the vehicle up close to the front.

The vehicle was mainly purposed for destroying tanks at a distance, hence the amazing penetration values with the gun at its battle rating. It will still penetrate tanks of its BR and rank even at 500 m, which means staying from afar is the best way to play this particular vehicle. However, relocating after successive shots is another good idea. It prevents returning fire from the enemy, especially artillery strikes. It is not wise to bring this vehicle upfront, as it will probably not survive long with rigorous combat. However, the M3 GMC can be quite deadly up close as well if it manages to take the enemy by surprise. If planning to go up front, stock up on the M61 shot, which will increase the gun's lethality to tanks due to its internal HE charge. Keep in mind that this vehicle has to be supported by teammates, experienced players will take note of it's long to reload and may try to rush out and destroy the M3 GMC during the reloads. Effective use of its excellent reverse speed to take cover or back out of enemy fire will increase the chances of surviving. Overall, this vehicle is an effective tank destroyer for its rank, rivalling the [[ZiS-30]]. It combines the penetration ability of the ZiS-30 on to a larger calibre weapon, at the same time marrying the weapon on to the M3 half-track, which is already blessed with exceptional mobility.

The low fire rate can be a fatal downfall for many newer players; always stay in cover while reloading. Many players will stay out in the open while they wait for the gun to reload; this is a deadly mistake.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Powerful cannon for its rank
* Good mobility
* Post-penetration damage of the M61 shot is deadly
* Exceptional reverse speed
* Acceleration is best when compared to other tank destroyers of its rank
* Two spare crew members before efficiency is compromised

'''Cons:'''

* New players may find the large turn radius of this vehicle very hard to use
* Lightly armoured, will only withstand 7.92 mm rounds effectively
* Any cannon round will penetrate this vehicle anywhere
* Vulnerable to strafing aircraft
* Entire crew is exposed, can be incapacitated by overpressure (HE shells, artillery strikes)
* Commander and loader are in-line with each other when viewing from the front, and same for the driver and gunner
* Poor reload time, slower than most other cannons at the rank
* Stock AP shell has poor post-penetration damage
* Limited traverse and slow traverse speed for the cannon

== History ==

===Development===
In the opening stages of World War II, the American military leaders realize they did not have any adequate anti-tank weaponry to repel a German tank assault. An urgent request for one developed into something akin of an improvised weapon.

Army development took an M3 half-track and placed the French 75 mm Gun M1897A4 gun onto it with a huge gun shield to protect the crew. This experimental vehicle was called the ''T12'', and was deemed to work well enough to be adopted and standardized in October 1941 as the '''75 mm GMC M3'''. From 1941 to 1943, about 2,200 units were produced, but many were converted back to standard half-tracks before they got issued, so it resulted in only about 842 units seeing combat service.

The M3 GMC was not particularly a protected vehicle given that it used a half-track as its basis, giving it rather limited protection for the crew. The gun crew on the half-track has a huge gun shield to take cover behind as they ready the weapon, but the truck driver and passenger would have no protection available. The French 75 mm Gun M1897A4 attached was a multi-purpose artillery piece, it could fire an armour piercing shell that could penetrate 81 mm of armour at 500 yards in a direct-fire role, and could hit targets up to 9,200 yards in an indirect-fire role. The 75 mm gun could only traverse in a limited arc forward, unable to traverse to face the back. Nevertheless, for a rushed production, the vehicle was deemed acceptable for use.

===Combat service===
The vehicles saw service first in the Philippines when the Japanese invaded in December 1942, used to fend off Japanese vehicles and infantry. When the Japanese conquered the Philippines, they captured the 75 mm GMC M3s and used them against U.S. Forces when they invaded the Philippines in October 1944. The largest concentration of the 75 mm GMC M3 was in the North African Campaign, and then again in the Sicilian Campaign. During the Sicilian campaign, it was gradually phased out for the [[M10 GMC|3-inch Gun Motor Carriage M10]] as it was starting to become obsolete, but it stayed as a support weapon as assault guns for special forces. In the Pacific, they saw further use in the Marine Corps blasting Japanese tanks and fortifications on the major island battles before being gradually replaced by the 105 mm artillery on the M7 Priest.

The British, French, and Philippine Army were the few Allies who got their hands on the 75 mm GMC M3. In British terminology, it was known as the ''75 mm SP, Autocar''. The Free French forces used some M3 GMC in the Western Front during the invasion of France. The Philippine forces used the M3 GMC when the U.S. supplied their military there with it. The Philippines retained the M3 GMC up to the 1960s, being used by a number of factions, from the Japanese when they captured it in the 1940s, the rebels of the Hukbalahap Rebellion, and in the Korean War by the Philippine Expeditionary Force.

=== In-game description ===
This self-propelled artillery installation was built in 1941 on the base of the M3 semitrack transporter by installing a modified version of an old French cannon onto it. It was released right up until 1943 and was unsuccessful as an anti-tank vehicle due to its poor armament and minimal armor.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_halftrack_m3_75mm_gmc Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|jB988Jwdfws|'''Talisman Series (Tanks) M3 GMC. I get lucky!''' - ''Joseph 2000''|6uI2emtskdU|'''M3 75 mm GMC, American, Tier-1 Tank Destroyer''' - ''Angry Nerd Gaming''|OaVPJHRiRkc|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Sd.Kfz.251/10]]
* [[Sd.Kfz.251/22]]
* [[SU-57]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/devblog/current/764/|[Devblog] M3 75 mm GMC and Ki-21-1ko]]
* [[wikipedia:M3_Gun_Motor_Carriage|[Wikipedia] M3 Gun Motor Carriage]]
* [https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/US/M3_Halftrack.php <nowiki>[Tanks Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Half Track Car M3]

{{USA tank destroyers}}
[[Category:Half-tracks]]

M15 CGMC

2021-12-20T19:22:05Z

U41943029: /* Description */

{{About
| about = American SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other half-track vehicles based on the M3
| link = M3 Half-Track (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_halftrack_m15
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft (SPAA) gun {{Battle-rating}}. It was one of the first American tanks to be released with the American ground tree in [[Update 1.45 "Steel Generals"]].

Comparing the M15 CGMC to the [[M16 MGMC|M16]] and [[M13 MGMC|M13]], they first appear similar. The same manoeuvrability and mobility are still passed on. All feature, [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|Browning]] heavy machine guns. But at this point, the similarities end. Both M13 and M16 have only one weapon system making long range shots easier to hit with all weapons. They also carry plenty of ammo (both 4800 rounds or 12 / 6 reloads) and will fire long after the M15 ran out of 37 mm and 12.7 mm rounds. Of course, the Combination Gun Motor Carriage has some advantages to the machine gun only armed versions: A nasty cannon and actual armour, the M15A1 is entrusted with the ability to engage at a longer distance down aircraft faster, and most importantly, survive much longer. However, the price paid is the inability for the armament to cover the vehicle's front and slower turret rotation. The latter can be addressed by driving backwards while in a combat zone.

A noteworthy issue is the gun layout: The secondary anti-air weapons (the M2 Brownings) can only be fired with the machine gun key. They do not activate when pressing the secondary weapon key.

As being a half truck and tank it will turn well in all speeds compared to other SPAA.

The M15 CGMC is a '''s'''elf '''p'''ropelled '''a'''nti-'''a'''ir vehicle. This machine is a very simple deal: More armour and a cannon in change for less ammo and more difficult aiming. Not much more to say. Stay behind and close to allies, but outside the enemies view-range and with a clear line of sight to the horizon for low aircraft, and try to keep the turret facing the rear of the vehicle.

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


'''Armour type:'''

*Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 6.35 mm (31°) ''Front Hood'' 6.35 mm (83-84°) ''Hood top'' || 6.35 mm || 6.35 mm || N/A
|-
| Turret || 12.7 mm || N/A || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

Open top, open rear and only 12 mm (0.5 inch) all around? [[SU-152|SU-152's]] and [[M4A3 (105)|M4 (105)'s]] HE shells will always be happy to obliterate the M15A1. On the other hand, those nasty aircraft cannot damage it easily with their machine gun fire and Armour-piercing rounds are usually not fielded by fighters. Something to be aware of though is the 37 mm ammo location: The turret bin's walls. Easy to hit and even easier to detonate by tanks.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=210|rbMinHp=131}}

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

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

{{main|M1A2 (37 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[M1A2 (37 mm)|37 mm M1A2]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 240 (10) || rowspan="2" | 120 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+85° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 22.02 || 30.47 || 37.00 || 40.92 || 43.53 || rowspan="2" | 2.60 || rowspan="2" | 2.30 || rowspan="2" | 2.12 || rowspan="2" | 2.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.88 || 17.50 || 21.25 || 23.50 || 25.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''M59A1 shot (mixed):''' {{Annotation|APC|Armour-piercing capped}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}} - These work fine, a hit on an aircraft means certain destruction for it and still is able to damage lightly armoured vehicles.
* '''M54 shell:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - These are best for against aircraft.
* '''M59A1 shot:''' {{Annotation|APC|Armour-piercing capped}} - These are the worst belts against airplanes and even though they are able to damage lightly armoured vehicles, loading them in a RB match is usually a mistake.

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belt
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| M54 shell || HEFI-T* || 3 || 3 || 3 || 3 || 3 || 3
|-
| M59A1 shot || APC || 48 || 46 || 40 || 33 || 27 || 23
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Belt details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belt
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| M54 shell || HEFI-T* || 792 || 0.61 || 0 || 0.1 || 65.25 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| M59A1 shot || APC || 625 || 0.87 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
|}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! 7th rack empty
! 8th rack empty
! 9th rack empty
! 10th rack empty
! 11th rack empty
! 12th rack empty
! 13th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''24''' || 17 ''(+7)'' || 11 ''(+13)'' || 10 ''(+14)'' || 9 ''(+15)'' || 8 ''(+16)'' || 7 ''(+17)'' || 6 ''(+18)'' || 5 ''(+19)'' || 4 ''(+20)'' || 3 ''(+21)'' || 2 ''(+22)'' || 1 ''(+23)'' || 0 ''(+24)'' || No
|-
|}
[[File:Ammoracks_M15A1_(37_mm).png|right|thumb|x250px|37 mm ammo racks]]

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

{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 1,700 (200) || 577 || N/A || N/A
|-
| Coaxial || 1,700 (200) || 577 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Common:''' {{Annotation|API-T|M20 armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|I|M1 incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP|M2 armour-piercing}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|M20 armour-piercing incendiary tracer}} - These rounds work well until the others are researched.
* '''API:''' {{Annotation|API-T|M20 armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I|M8 armour-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|M20 armour-piercing incendiary tracer}} - These are absolutely devastating in the AA role with slightly less performance against enemy tanks than AP.
* '''AP:''' {{Annotation|AP|M2 armour-piercing}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP|M2 armour-piercing}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|M20 armour-piercing incendiary tracer}} - These are best against enemy tanks at close range and do good damage to planes.
* '''APIT:''' {{Annotation|API-T|M20 armour-piercing incendiary tracer}} - Better than API in all regards but not as good against tanks as AP, this is the belt of choice in almost all situations. Since every bullet is a tracer, it makes destroying aircraft much easier and detectability is not greatly increased over AP-I, however is increased a bit over AP.

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belt
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Common || 31 || 30 || 26 || 22 || 18 || 15
|-
| API || 30 || 29 || 24 || 20 || 16 || 13
|-
| AP || 31 || 30 || 26 || 22 || 18 || 15
|-
| APIT || 30 || 29 || 24 || 20 || 16 || 13
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Belt details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belt
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| APIT || API-T || 929 || 0.04 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 56° || 65°
|-
|}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_M15A1_(12.7_mm).png|right|thumb|x250px|12.7 mm ammo racks]]

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''18''' || 12 ''(+6)'' || 9 ''(+9)'' || 2 ''(+16)'' || 0 ''(+18)'' || No
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


Compared to certain other SPAAs ([[ZSU-37]], [[Wirbelwind]], [[M13 MGMC|M13]], etc.) the M15 cannot be used effectively in an anti-vehicle role. The average [[BR|battle-rating]] is too high and the penetration value of the AP shells to low. While it does have increased armour compared to earlier models, it is still not strong enough against the devastating tank HE shells. However, the armour performs well versus the average aircraft armament.

With the 37 mm cannon the CGMC has an good tool versus [[:Category:Bombers|bombers]] and [[:Category:Strike aircraft|strike aircraft]]. The ammo is limited though. Reserve the fire for certain hits. Against fighters the same tactic should be applied, while now the 12.7 mm HMG should be used as well, their ammo is limited, too. Without firing discipline, the M15A1 ammo will run out very fast.
[[File:M15A1GMC Normandy.jpg|thumb|left|Ingame screenshot of the M15 CGMC on the map Normandy.]]

Unlike many other SPAA this vehicle can continue shooting once it is reloading the big gun ([[M1A2 (37 mm)‏‎|37 mm cannon]] or the smaller calibre [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|M2 Browning]] guns). However, continued fire is not the strength of this machine. It simply lacks the ammo for it, 200 shells will earn some scores, but simply cannot compete with the constant rate of fire the German [[Sd.Kfz. 6/2]] As it has an extremely short reload time. The Axis counterpart has less armour overall, yet fire rate is 40 rounds a minute higher (~160 shells/min) and has 318 shots total instead of meagre 200. In addition, the German SPAA actually has efficient high-velocity rounds with 48 mm @ 100m (1.9 inches at 110 yards).
{{Clear}}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Decent armour, compared to its predecessors
* Armour to an extent can soak up 12.7 mm rounds, something the previous vehicles could not do
* Heavy armament setup
* Guns are fired separately, allowing for shots between reloading guns or tricking the enemy into misidentifying the vehicle as an M13 MGMC
* 37 mm can attack other tanks if necessary, though this is not recommended due to low penetration

'''Cons:'''

* Low ammo count, will run out easily
* Split armament causes different ballistics between them
* Different velocities for the cannon and machine guns
* Very slow fire rate for the 37mm gun for AA purposes.
* Open top turret, so the Turret crew is exposed
* Vulnerable against explosions
* Very uneven centre of gravity, may tip over in tight turns
* 37 mm ammunition is stored in the turret walls, it is easy to hit and is lethal to the crew and tank
* Cannot cover the front of the vehicle
* Lacks rapid reload on German and Russian counterparts

== History ==


===Development===
The history of the M15 CGMC, or Combination Gun Motor Carriage, the vehicle is derived from the prototype T28 CGMC. The T28 prototype was itself developed from the US Army Coast Artillery Corps T1A2 Multiple Gun Motor Carriage projects, which was designed around the current Army 37mm M1A2 Autocannon to be flanked with two .50 calibre M2 Browning machine guns on an M2 half-track. This vehicle was designated the T28, but failed evaluations in Aberdeen Proving Grounds due to the heavy recoil, causing the project to be cancelled in 1942. But the US Army Armored Forces required a mobile anti-aircraft system to support their tanks in combat, so the T28 was revitalized with modifications, using the larger M3 half-tracks as the basis instead with a newer site for target spotting, this modified variant was the T28E1 CGMC, and 81 of these were built from July to August of 1942 by White Motor Company. These vehicles did not have an armoured mount for the crew, leaving the gun and crew exposed to enemy fire, but after initial production, the vehicle was given an armoured shield and this was now designated the M15 CGMC.

The M15 CGMC had an M42 armoured weapon mount with two .50 calibre Browning machine guns side by side above the main 37 mm armament in the centre. Initial versions produced in 1943 accounted for 680 M15s built before modification with a lighter gun mount, lighter machine guns, and new sights. The M15s made from the M3A1 half-track chassis and were designated the M15A1 CGMC, which accounted for 1,052 units produced in 1943, and another 600 in 1944. This lead to a total production of 2,332 vehicles produced in the span of 1942 to 1944.

===Combat usage===
The M15 CGMC were first used in Operation Torch as the T28E1, when the Americans and British forces invaded North Africa. Crew usage was for the .50 calibre machine guns to fire tracers to bring the gun up to aim with the intended target. Performance of the M15 CGMC accounted for more than one hundred downed aircraft during the North African and Italian campaigns. During the invasion of Sicily, 78 T28E1s were available to provide anti-air protection for the invading force against the German low-flying planes such as the [[Ju 87 B-2|Ju 87 Stuka]] dive bombers. The T28E1s were still used all the way until the end of the war despite the development of the more armoured M15 half-tracks.

The M15s were organized into anti-aircraft artillery companies in the US Armored Divisions. In one company, there were eight M15 CGMCs and eight [[M16 MGMC]]. At higher levels, such as in the corps and army level, there were 32 of each vehicle available. The M15s accompanied its prototype in the Italian campaign, but also saw use in the Battle of Normandy and Operation Dragoon in France, and the rest of the fighting on the Western Front. Like the M16 MGMC, the M15 CGMC was used as both in an anti-aircraft role and a ground support role, supporting the infantry as they advance into territory where German aircraft prevalence becomes lower and lower. The M15 also served in the Pacific during the Philippines Campaign and the Battle of Okinawa in the same roles in the European theatre. During World War II, the M15 CGMCs were also given out in large numbers to allies, such as the Soviet Union. An attempt to upgrade the M15s to enhance firepower in the Korean War was done in Australia by converting the M15 CGMCs by removing the 37 mm and .50 calibre machine gun mount and instead of replacing it with a single 40 mm Bofors cannon. This modified M15 was unofficially named the M15 "Special" and was used during the Battle of the Philippines.

After World War II, many M15s were given to Japan under the Military Aid Program to support their new military formation. The M15s saw service again in the Korean War as an anti-aircraft and ground support vehicle. However, the M15 was classified as "limited standard" like its M16 counterpart due to its lower efficiency against the newer planes present due to advances in technology. The M15 "Special" was taken up as an improved version of the M15 and adopted due to the larger quantity of 40 mm ammo than the 37 mm, this caused the modified M15s to be designated the T19, then officially as the M34. The M15 was declared obsolete in 1946 and retired sometime after that, with the remaining ones given to Japan.

=== In-game description ===
Following the success enjoyed by the T28E1 CGMC in North Africa, US army command decided to launch full-scale production of a self-propelled anti-aircraft weapon with mixed armament. The weapon was standardized as the M15 CGMC.

The M15 was the M3 half-track personnel carrier with mixed cannon and machine gun weaponry: a 37 mm M1A2 cannon and two 12.7 mm Browning M2HB machine guns. The built-in gun mount was installed on a rotating, open-top turret on the floor of the personnel carrier's body. The mass-produced versions differed from the T28E1 in that they boasted an armoured shield to protect the crew and had a Browning M2HB machine gun with air-cooled barrels (the T28E1 had water-cooled Browning M2WC machine guns).

The M15 CGMC AA mount was produced by the Autocar Company from February to April 1943. In that time 600 were assembled, after which the vehicle was pulled from production due to its low reliability and manoeuvrability.

The M15 CGMC fought as part of the American army's AA divisions in the European theatre. The USSR received 100 units via Lend-Lease.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_halftrack_m15 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Sd.Kfz. 6/2]]
* [[ZiS-43]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/3133/current/|[Vehicle Profile] M15 CGMC]]

{{USA anti-aircraft vehicles}}
[[Category:Half-tracks]]