War Thunder Wiki - User contributions [en]

M1128

2024-11-25T12:50:31Z

U78375386:

{{About
| about = American light tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the premium version
| link = M1128 Wolfpack
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m1128_mgs
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}_AddArmour.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png|ArtImage2_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

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

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


'''Armour type:'''

* High-hardness rolled armour - Hull and turret
* MEXAS 2C - Applique armour on hull and lower turret

{| class="wikitable"
!Armour
!Front (Slope angle)
!Sides
!Rear
!Roof
|-
|Hull
|12.7 mm (70°) + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C ''Upper Glacis'' 12.7 mm (1°-3°) + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C ''Middle Plate'' 12.7 mm (54°) + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C ''Lower Glacis''
|12.7 mm + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C
|12.7 mm + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C ''Door'' 12.7 mm ''Hull Rear''
|12.7 mm + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C
|-
|Turret
|12.7 mm ''Upper Part'' 12.7 mm + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C ''Lower Part''
|12.7 mm ''Upper Part'' 12.7 mm + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C ''Lower Part''
|12.7 mm ''Upper Part'' 12.7 mm + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C ''Lower Part''
|12.7 mm - 15 mm ''Upper Part'' 12.7 mm + 25.4 mm MEXAS 2C ''Lower Part''
|-
|Cupolas
|12.7 mm
|12.7 mm
|12.7 mm
|12.7 mm
|}
'''Notes:'''

* .50 cal machine gun shield has 12.7 mm of armour protection.
* Wheels provide 10 mm of protection.

==== Additional Armour ====
{| class="wikitable"
!Armour
!Location
|-
|Spaced Armour
|Between engine compartment and the crew compartment
Between hull front and driver
|-
|Slat Armour
|All four sides of the hull
|-
|Sideskirts
|Over the wheels
|}'''Notes:'''

* Sideskirts: 6.35 mm High Hardness Rolled Armour + 6.35 mm High Hardness Rolled Armour + 50 mm Composite Screen
* Spaced Armour: 5 mm Rolled Homogeneous Armour
* Slat Armour: 10 mm

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=542|rbMinHp=310|AoAweight=4.7|weight=23.4}}

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

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

{{main|M68A1E8 (105 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M68A1E8 (105 mm)|105 mm M68A1E8]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
!Autoloader
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 18 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+15° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.7 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 7.50
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:M68A1E8 (105 mm)/Ammunition|M456A2, M774, M900}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''18''' || 9 ''(+9)'' || 1 ''(+17)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
* Rack 2 (autoloader magazine) is a first stage ammo rack and totals 8 shells.
* As the {{PAGENAME}} is equipped with an autoloader, manual reloading of the gun is not possible.
* Once the autoloader magazine has been depleted, you can't shoot until the loader has restocked the autoloader with at least one shell.
* The restocking time is longer than the normal reload time of the gun. Take this into account when playing.
* Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from rack 1 into rack 2. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.

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

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 400 (200) || 577 || -5°/+30° || -5°/+70°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M240 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M240]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 3,400 (200) || 941 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The M1128 is best played as an ambush-sniper. Take full advantage of the vehicle's mobility to get to sniping positions first and avoid open areas when you can. With the M1128's unmanned turret, it is best used at a hull-down position. The M1128 is also vulnerable to the overpressure mechanic and has inconsistent and poor armour which means that you should approach all enemies with caution. When the opportunity presents itself, it is always best to double back or reposition and fight your enemy in a position fight.

'''Urban combat'''

The M1128 performs rather poorly in urban combat since it is a large vehicle. Although it has an excellent turret traverse speed, close-quarters fighting is not advised as the tank is vulnerable to all kinds of fire. The M1128's reload rate is decent enough for its BR and is able to dispatch multiple enemies, though the ready-rack of only eight rounds should not be relied on. Therefore, you should avoid close-quarters engagements and try to reposition when possible.

'''Rural Combat'''

The M1128 excels in large, open maps. Taking full advantage of its mobility and firepower, it is best to reach advantageous positions early in the game. Using the high-resolution thermal sights, it is easy to spot enemies and quickly neutralize them.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* High resolution thermal gunner and commander optics (3rd generation), as well as low resolution driver thermal optics (1st generation).
* Has access to the M900 high penetration APFSDS round when spaded.
* Autoloader allows a 7.5 second reload no matter the amount of crew members left or their health.
* Can put another shell in the autoloader in only 6 seconds; it is not affected by crew skill.
* High turret traverse speed (40°/sec with an ace crew) allows great reactionary ability.
* Unmanned turret can protect the crew from harm thanks to their location in the hull.
* Can fire smoke grenades three times, four grenades each time (total of 12 smoke grenades).
* .50 calibre machine gun can be used against low-flying aerial targets and lightly armoured ground vehicles.
* Acceleration is good especially without the add-on slat armour

'''Cons:'''

* 7.5 second reload is longer than for many vehicles with a 105 mm gun and an expert or ace crew.
* .50 calibre machine gun does not have full 360 degrees of traverse unlike most other pintle-mounted guns
* Can only carry 18 rounds of ammunition, which may not always be enough.
* Thin armour can only protect against machine gun rounds; it is not able to protect against autocannons.
* It has a very large profile, making it an easy target.
* Suffers mildly from overpressure mechanic.
* Can not neutral steer and the off-road mobility is poor because of the wheeled design.
* Add-on slat armour around the vehicle is quite inconsistent with stopping HEAT/HEAT-FS shells.
** Slat armour also adds 5 tons of weight, reducing the power-to-weight ratio to 14.96 hp/ton; severely impacts acceleration
* Poor gun depression angles

== History ==


=== Development ===
[[File:M1128Stryker Loading Lockheed C-5 Galaxy.jpg|x250px|left|none|thumb|Two M1128 Strykers being loaded into C-5 Galaxy aircraft, representing its ability to be transportable by air.]]
The XM1128 MGS was designed by General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) - Canada to meet the US Army's Mobile Gun System (MGS) requirement, a requirement for an airmobile infantry support platform that could double in the anti-tank role. The first XM1128 prototype was completed in 1999, and after being chosen as the winner of the competition, eight pre-production units began delivery in 2002 after being redesignated as the M1128 Stryker MGS. The M1128 Stryker entered service with the US Army in 2007.

The M1128 Stryker uses the chassis of the GDLS-Canada Stryker - which is based on the LAV-III. The General Dynamics Low-Profile Turret (LPT) is used, which is a modified version of the turret from the Expeditionary Tank. It is designed to be light enough to easily be transported by air. In 2005, after issues with the autoloading mechanism, the autoloader was changed.

=== Design ===
The driver sits in the front left part of the hull, next to the engine on the right side. The driver can access his position through a hinged, one piece folding hatch or through the crew compartment. Three M17 day periscopes are located in the driver's hatch; the first one can be replaced by an image intensifier for night operations. A thermal viewer can be fitted in front of the driver as well.

The LPT is located towards the rear of the hull, with the commander sitting on the right and the gunner on the left, rounding off the crew of three. The LPT is significantly lighter than a conventional turret, whilst also presenting a smaller target to the enemy.

The main armament is a 105 mm M68A1E8 gun. It has 360° of traverse and elevation angles of -5° to +15°. The turret uses electrical controls, but manual controls are available for emergency situations. Both the gunner and commander can control the turret and fire the main gun. The main gun has a fire rate of 10 rounds per minute.

The main gun is fed by an automatic loading system, replacing a human loader. The automatic loading system contains eight rounds, and ten more rounds are carried in the hull for a total of 18 rounds of 105 mm ammunition. The autoloading mechanism can be refilled automatically with only six seconds per shell.

The M1128 is capable of firing M900 APFSDS anti-tank rounds, M456A2 HEAT anti-tank and anti-infantry rounds, M394A3 HEP (also known as HESH) rounds for bunker-busting, and M1040 canister rounds for anti-infantry duty.

The gunner has a single piece hatch with three M27 day periscopes. He also has access to a roof-mounted day/thermal sighting system with a laser rangefinder. The commander's one piece hatch has six M27 day periscopes and on production vehicles also has a panoramic viewer with day and thermal capability. As a backup to the main winner's sight, a x7 magnification day sight is provided for both the gunner and commander.

A 7.62 mm machine gun is located coaxially to the left of the main gun. Additionally, a 12.7 mm machine gun is available for use by the commander. On pre-production units the .50 cal machine gun was pintle-mounted, but it was mounted on a skate rail on production vehicles. Smoke grenade launchers are mounted on each side of the turret, with the amount and location depending on the model (prototype, pre-production, or production). The production version has two banks of four smoke grenades on the left (gunner's) side and one bank of four on the right (commander's) side, for a total of 12 smoke grenades.

The main gun and coaxial machine gun are fully stabilized, as are the gunner and commander's sights. The General Dynamics fire-control computer is used as the fire-control system (FCS).

The M1128 utilizes welded steel armour, with a layer of ceramic applique armour bolted to the exterior as standard. A small liner is fitted to specific areas of the interior to minimize the damage of a penetration.

An armour package consisting of slat, also known as bar, armour can be fitted. This prematurely detonated rocket propelled grenades, preventing penetration. To further enhance protection, composite screens can be added to protect the wheels.

The powerpack is located in the front of the hull, to the right of the driver. It consists of a Caterpillar 3126A diesel engine - producing 350 horsepower - and an Allison MD 3560 P automatic transmission. The transmission has six forward gears and one reverse gear. The maximum attainable speed is 100 km/h, and it has a range of 530 km.

The M1128 has eight wheels and uses power-assisted steering, with the front two axles being engaged in steering. A central tire pressure regulation system is fitted to allow the adjustment of tire pressure as needed.

The M1128 Stryker MGS is fitted with a heating and air conditioning system, vehicle and external communications system, an automatic fire detection and suppression system, and a GPS. A nuclear, biological, chemical (NBC) protection system is fitted for the crew compartment.

An auxiliary power unit (APU) can be fitted, as can a hydraulic winch for self-recovery or for moving of other vehicles or obstacles.
[[File:Stryker Afghanistan - DVIDSHUB 100531-A-------004.jpg|x250px|right|none|thumb|A M1128 Stryker in Afghanistan fitted with slat armour.]]

=== Production and Service ===
The XM1128 prototype was first built in 1999, and eight pre-production vehicles were built by 2002. The Army originally planned to purchase 204 M1128 Strykers, but only ended up buying 142 in total, due to issues with the turret and autoloader.

In 2013, there were 27 M1128 Strykers assigned to each Stryker Brigade, but the number was then reduced to ten. The M1128 Stryker MGS is - and was always intended to be - used to support the infantry. Despite having anti-tank capability, anti-tank operations are a secondary role for the Stryker MGS, with infantry support being the primary role.

A platoon of three Stryker MGS is attached to each Stryker infantry company, one MGS supporting each Stryker infantry platoon.

Three M1128 Strykers have been lost to combat in the Middle East.

In 2022, the US Army announced the retirement of the original model of the M1128 Stryker MGS, citing obsolescence of its cannon and autoloader, as well as lack of protection against IEDs and anti-tank mines. Updated and improved variants of the Stryker continue to be operated in its absence.

=== [[wt:en/news/6934-development-m1128-stryker-mgs-en|Devblog]] ===
Following the end of the Cold War, leading U.S. Army theorists believed that the armoured branch of the armed forces was no longer suitably equipped to perform future operations, projected to be "low-intensity" operations. As a result, the need for a new vehicle, which would bridge the gap between heavily and lightly armoured units, became increasingly apparent.

To address this, the Army issued a set of requirements for the new vehicle and invited close to a dozen manufacturers to design demonstrator vehicles to be tested in late 1999. Among them, General Dynamics Land Systems' LAV III-105 was eventually proclaimed the winner of the competition in November 2000. Shortly after, the LAV III-105 received the name 'Stryker' and plans were made to manufacture over 2,100 units.

In 2002, the XM-M1128 MGS was built, however technical difficulties and deficiencies in the design caused delays to the start of its production. By 2005, low rate production of the vehicle was approved, while new shortcomings in the design were found. Eventually, the vehicle received a significant redesign of certain elements in 2008, being later approved for full production in 2014.

During its early production phase, several Stryker MGS vehicles were sent overseas for combat trials in the Middle East of which 3 would be lost. At present, over 140 M1128 Stryker MGS' have been built and actively serve with the U.S. Army.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m1128_mgs Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" caption="M1128 Stryker MGS Devblog Images" heights="150">
File:M1128 Stryker MGS WTWallpaper 001.jpg|
File:M1128 Stryker MGS WTWallpaper 002.jpg|
File:M1128 Stryker MGS WTWallpaper 003.jpg|
File:M1128 Stryker MGS WTWallpaper 004.jpg|
File:M1128 Stryker MGS WTWallpaper 005.jpg|
File:M1128 Stryker MGS WTWallpaper 006.jpg|
File:M1128 Stryker MGS WTWallpaper 007.jpg|
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|NlHdl2JAjfU|'''The Shooting Range #385''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:30 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|y2Ph0rmD5sU|'''Unmanned Turret Tanks: Showcasing New Tech''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 03:47 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|chjZ6Hra--c|'''Best wheeled tanks''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 02:37 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


;Other {{Annotation|MCV|Maneuver Combat Vehicle}}/{{Annotation|MGS|Mobile Gun System}}'s:

* [[File:South Africa_flag.png|20px|link=]] [[Rooikat (Family)]]
* [[File:Italy_flag.png|20px|link=]] [[Centauro (Family)]]
* [[File:FRG_flag.png|20px|link=]] [[Radkampfwagen 90]]
* [[File:Japan_flag.png|20px|link=]] [[Type 16]]
* [[File:France_flag.png|20px|link=]] [[AMX-10RC]]
* [[File:China_flag.png|20px|link=]] [[ZLT11]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6934-development-m1128-stryker-mgs-en|[Devblog] M1128 Stryker MGS]]

{{TankManufacturer GDLS}}
{{USA light tanks}}
[[Category:Wheeled ground vehicles]]

120S

2024-10-07T09:17:52Z

U78375386:

{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m60_120s
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

Despite the end of the Cold War, General Dynamics Land System (GDLS) envisioned a potential customer base of countries equipped with Cold War era tanks like the Patton tanks that want to keep their technological edge by upgrading their existing systems rather than developing or procuring new tanks. GDLS started developing the M60-2000 in late 1999, an upgrade over the M60 platform to keep the tank up-to-date with the new M1 Abrams tank. Aside from updating the components to allow the M60-2000 to maintain similar mobility as the Abrams, the most distinctive feature of the M60-2000 was the use of a M1A1 turret on top of the M60 hull, allowing the tank upgrade to use a 120 mm M256 cannon. During development, the tank name was changed from M60-2000 into '''120S'''. The tank was first marketed as a concept to prospective customers in Europe and the Middle East. The first prototype was produced and revealed in 2001. However, no orders came in for the 120S, and the sole prototype was eventually disassembled in 2003.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced in [[Update "Alpha Strike"]] and while looking like a compressed M1 Abrams, it is a hybrid of capabilities between the M1A1 Abrams and the M60. Firstly, the elephant in the room is the large M1A1 turret planted atop a M60 hull. The turret brings the benefits of being equipped with a 120 mm cannon to defeat most of the 120S' foes as well as the turret armour of the M1A1 Abrams that can resist most incoming shots. However, the hull is where most of the disappointment lies in as it is just a M60 hull, the armour of which is quite negligible against the guns that can be faced and the engine isn't upgraded despite the heavier turret, so mobility is slower than preceding M60s. However, for players that have become accustomed to the M60 playstyle from the previous versions in the US tech tree, the 120S can be a refreshing change of pace with new armor and firepower opportunities.

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


The 120S is a [[M60]] hull mated with an Abrams turret. It inherits the usual M60 turret ring (flat 114 mm) weak spot with an even larger 70 mm flat neck. The hull is otherwise the same but unlike the previous M60's, players will notice additional side skirts on hull sides which might help against stray HEAT-FS shells. Turret on the other hand, comes from a [[M1A1]] model and is simply invincible to the most shells the 120S is likely to encounter. Sadly, putting the heavily armored Abrams turret onto the M60 hull increases the weight of 120S up to 56.2 tons. All while still retaining the same 750 hp engine which translates to 120S being slower than almost all the MBT's at its respective battle rating, and unlike the Israeli upgraded M60's, the 120S doesn't have any ESS.

'''Armour type:''' 


{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 108 mm (66°) ''Front Glacis'' 137 mm (54°) ''Lower Glacis''
| 36 - 70 + 65**mm ''Front half'' 36 - 70 + 6.5 mm ''Rear half''
| 25 mm (1°) ''Engine Grille'' 40 mm (31°) ''Top'' 28 mm (61°) ''Bottom''
| 36 mm ''Front'' 20 mm ''Engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 38*+101* mm (21-30°) 38*+18* mm (30-36°) ''Gun mantlet'' 25.4 mm (74-82°) ''Turret underside''
| 19*+101* mm (30°) ''Crew compartment'' 6*+13* (30°) ''Ammo rack bustle''
| 12.7 mm (43-48°) 25.4 mm (80-83°) ''Turret underside''
| 38.1 mm ''Front'' 25.4 mm ''Rear'' 12.7 mm ''Panels''
|-
| Cupola || colspan="4" |25.4 mm (conical)
|-
|}

'''Notes:''' 

<nowiki>* RHA plates part of composite armour
** Composite screens</nowiki>

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


Being one of the slowest MBT's at its battle rating, 120S users are forced to play under the pressure of getting flanked by faster vehicles such as Leopard 2s. The slow speed of 120S means either the players have to spawn early to get to their desired positions or simply spawn late to protect objectives or spawn point. As a result of the poor stock engine, one can skip getting the top shell and LSR (as the M829 at the rank I is simply enough in terms of penetration and accuracy) in favour of mobility upgrades.

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,162|rbMinHp=663}}

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

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

{{main|M256 (120 mm)}}

The 120S has the same 120mm M256 smoothbore gun used by the later Abrams tanks, and has the same ammunition options as the M1A1 consisting of M830 HEATFS as its stock shell, M829 APFSDS as a Tier I modification, and M829A1 as a Tier IV modification. In terms of battle rating, this is the lowest where these rounds are found with M829A1 undoubtedly being better than any other contemporary APFSDS round at this rank. It allows the 120S to comfortably tackle almost any target it comes across even from some distance away.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M256 (120 mm)|120 mm M256]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 42 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 6.50 || rowspan="2" | 5.75 || rowspan="2" | 5.30 || rowspan="2" | 5.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:M256 (120 mm)/Ammunition|M830, M829, M830A1, M829A1, M908}}

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''42''' || 39 ''(+3)'' || 35 ''(+7)'' || 18 ''(+24)'' || 1 ''(+41)'' || No
|-
|}

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

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

''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.''

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

== Usage in battles ==


[[File:Behind concretes.png|thumb|Being a tall MBT is not always a bad thing. With the superior turret protection, 120S can hold long lines as long as there is something to cover its weak hull.]]
The 120S must use its strongpoints to alleviate its handicaps. The MBT gains the excellent 2nd-generation thermal view and the superb 120 mm M256 cannon of the [[M1A1]], but inherits the poor mobility and armour of the [[M60]].

Compared to the M1 Abrams experience, gameplay will be slower but much more methodical due to the M829A1 shell, which has no problem simply walking straight through troublesome armour and is easily one of the most powerful rounds at the BR, outperforming some of the ammunition available to even the 125mm contemporaries on Russian and Chinese tanks. Players do not have to worry about dealing with annoying Leopard 2s or the reckless T-series tank as long as they can get the first shot off.

While the gun and gun platform are extremely good for the BR, this comes at a rather heavy price. The 120S is by far the slowest of the MBTs at the BR. Unlike the upgraded Israeli [[Magach (Family)|Magachs]] at an earlier BR, the 120S has a measly 750hp engine, the same engine installed on the first [[M60]] at 8.0. This would not be an issue if not for the fact that the 120S is 20% heavier than its 8.0 counterpart, giving it easily the worst mobility for an MBT at the BR. This makes it extremely difficult to keep up with the frantic fast-paced combat of top-tier and means that the 120S is relegated to an almost strictly defensive role.

A safe way to play the 120S is by sitting just behind the frontline brawlers and using your fast reload and powerful gun to deal with large numbers of enemies in choke points, using your teammates to avoid being the centre of attention for the enemy. Using this tactic, not only will you be keeping your teammates safe and providing ample support for pushing the objectives during the early game, but will also prevent an early demise while still being useful.

At range, however, the 120S excels at long-range combat. The extremely flat trajectory of the 120mm rounds and their blazing velocity make it easy to snipe opponents from ranges fair greater and with more potency than the 105mm of the M1 Abrams. Second-generation thermal imagers and a laser rangefinder mean that acquiring targets, engaging and destroying them is easy. Owing to the turret cheeks, only the breech is vulnerable when fighting at ranges exceeding the 1km mark. However, be especially careful of [[BMP-2M]]; as the missile available on it will easily penetrate the cheeks of the turret at range and follow-ups can be fired immediately so a second hit will almost definitely destroy the vehicle. If you are caught reloading when you are hit, the ammunition will explode and destroy the vehicle regardless of the blowout panels.

Depending on the map, however, even this can be situational thanks to the abysmal hull armour. The hull is essentially a completely stock [[M60]] hull, with no mobility or armour upgrades. This means that all rounds at this BR will simply pass straight through the hull and into the crew. While this can sometimes be avoided with MBT in the event the player is alive after a glancing blow, the same cannot be said for IFVs. Almost every IFV at this BR, most notably [[BMP-2M]] and [[PUMA]], will simply shred straight through the turret ring or the sides of the hull with their powerful APDS and APFSDS belts. This makes proximity teammates extremely important with the 120S, as it is extremely easy to disable or even completely destroy within a fraction of a second.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Very quick reload, up to 5 seconds with an ace crew
* Very good firepower, can comfortably tackle whatever it faces even at higher BRs
* Superb gun handling
* Effective hull down capability due to the M1A1 turret
* 2nd generation thermals for the gunner
* Unlike most NATO MBTs, can look behind due to high placement of the turret

'''Cons:'''

* Poor mobility, compounded by poor reverse speed
* Loud engine tone
* Poor hull armour made up entirely of RHA
* Very obvious turret neck that sticks out from the hull
* Lack of a commander sight hampers the combat effectiveness in simulator mode

== History ==

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

=== [[wt:en/news/8795-development-m60-120s-the-frankentank-en|Devblog]] ===
Late in 1999, General Dynamics Land Systems were looking to put a tank together that was suitable to export to countries as a cheaper alternative to the current main battle tanks. To attract buyers, it was decided to pair an M1A1 turret onto an M60A1 hull — a hull which was already in use with many countries around the world. This combination could also allow for countries to convert their existing M60 hulls into the M60 120S standard if required. In August 2001 the first prototype was completed and subsequently shown at the IDEF Exhibition in Turkey in October 2001. Having been proposed to countries such as Turkey and Egypt, there was no interest and the project was abandoned with only 1 prototype being built.

== Media ==


;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|BeS9PrzGeBc|'''The Shooting Range #398''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:25 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}

== See also ==


* [[M60 (Family)]]
** [[Magach 7C]] - Israeli end of the line upgraded M60

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8795-development-m60-120s-the-frankentank-en|[Devblog] M60 120S: The Frankentank]]

{{USA medium tanks}}

XM803

2024-10-04T09:16:39Z

U78375386:

{{Specs-Card
|code=us_xm_803
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''Tank, Combat, Full-Tracked, 152 mm Gun/Launcher XM-803''', developed from the [[MBT-70]], was part of the abandoned collaborative U.S. and West German initiative to develop a new main battle tank to replace the existing [[M60 (Family)|M60 family of MBT]] during the 1960s. The program experienced significant challenges from the start, with the United States Army and the German Bundeswehr having diverging doctrines that were not coordinated and were not resolved before the project was too far along to be modified. By the late 1960s, West Germany abandoned the project and the U.S. solely funded the project for the next few years. The MBT-70 was redesigned and designated the XM-803, as an attempt to modify the MBT-70 design into a low-cost substitution using entirely U.S.-made components, resulting in the strikingly similar XM-803 prototype. The biggest cost savings came from switching to less expensive steel armour plates. Costs were also decreased by using an engine built in the U.S. instead of West Germany. The prototype was a little heavier and a little slower compared to the original MBT-70. Despite these savings, the XM-803 design began to match the MBT-70 in sophistication as development progressed and was ultimately terminated. The XM-803 program was cancelled by Congress in December 1971, and work on a new tank program began, the XM-1, which ultimately resulted in the production-model [[M1 Abrams]] MBT.

Introduced in [[Update 1.79 "Project X"]], the XM-803 offers players unique insights into the pathway of U.S. tank development that ultimately leads to the current-day M1 Abrams MBT. Despite the program's eventual demise, the XM-803 gives several unique capabilities for Cold War U.S. Army ground forces players, particularly the capacity to launch anti-tank guided missiles from the gun barrel, which is unusual in Western MBTs but prevalent in Soviet MBTs. The XM-803 performs very similarly to its ancestor, the MBT-70; however, it suffers from a slightly lower top speed and lacks the original 20 mm cannon mounted on the turret roof. Overall, the MBT strikes a good balance between protection, speed, and firepower, allowing players to easily engage most threats.

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


The XM-803's frontal armour is only effective versus full-calibre AP and APHE rounds and certain APDS rounds. Almost all large calibre (76 mm and up) sabot rounds will have no trouble slicing through it, even when hitting the frontal armour at an angle. Large calibre HEAT-FS has no problem going through it too, although the large fuel tank behind the frontal hull armour can sometimes absorb a lot of the damage. The fuel tank is also completely separate from the rest of the tank, and as a result, often burns out without damaging the rest of the vehicle. The spaced armour proves effective against HESH rounds as the spall generated upon detonation on the external armour will be soaked by the underlying layers, significantly reducing the damaging effect of the round. One big weak spot on the turret is the left turret cheek (the right from the view of the tank commander). This is because this part of the turret is not protected by spaced armour and only consists of a 177.8 mm thick CHA plate, which most chemical and kinetic energy projectiles can penetrate with ease.

'''Armour type:'''

* Spaced armour (Hull front, Turret front)
* Rolled homogeneous armour
* Cast homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 38.1 mm (64°) ''Front glacis'' 76 mm (63°) ''Lower glacis'' || 35 mm ''Top'' 25.4 mm ''Bottom'' || 25.4 mm (12°) ''Top'' 25.4 mm (67°) ''Bottom'' 5 mm (13°) ''Engine exhaust'' || 25.4 mm ''Front'' 5-12.7 mm ''Engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 38.1-203 mm (0-75°) || 12.7-38.1* mm (29-34°) || 12.7* mm (27-84°) || 25.4-76 mm ''Front'' 12.7 mm ''Rear turret''
|-
| Cupola || 25.4 mm || 25.4 mm || 25.4 mm || 25.4 mm
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Spaced armour* !! Front !! Sides !! Rear
|-
| Hull || 250 mm ''Kinetic'' 240 mm ''Chemical'' || N/A || N/A
|-
| Turret || 270-300 mm ''Kinetic'' 220-350 mm ''Chemical'' || '''38 mm sections:''' 200 mm ''Kinetic'' 220 mm ''Chemical'' '''12.7 mm sections:''' 50 mm ''Kinetic'' 60 mm ''Chemical'' || 30 mm ''Kinetic'' 40 mm ''Chemical''
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Road wheels are 20 mm thick and tracks are 30 mm thick.
* A 6.35 mm RHA plate separates the engine from the crew compartment
* The crew is protected by a 6.35mm thick turret basket
* Hull spaced armour configuration is 38 mm RHA + 127 mm air + 51 mm RHA.
* Turret spaced armour configuration is 38 mm RHA + 127 mm air + 127 mm CHA.
* Turret rear side spaced armour configuration is 12.7 mm RHA + 38 mm air + 25.4 mm RHA
* Turret rear spaced armour configuration is 12.7 mm RHA + 38 mm air + 12.7 mm RHA.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,937|rbMinHp=1,106}}

The mobility of the {{PAGENAME}} is worse than that of the MBT-70. In its stock configuration, it has a horsepower/ton ratio of 21.39, while with all upgrades this increases to 24.08 HP/t. The top speed (both forward and reverse) is 64 km/h (40 mph) with 8 gears for both directions. The tank can reach its top speed quickly on flat roads, while on more difficult terrain the top speed drops by around 20 km/h. The tank has neutral steering and good turning ability on all terrains.

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

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[XM150E5 (152 mm)|152 mm XM150E5]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || Reloading rate rounds (seconds) || Reloading rate ATGM (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Autoloader
! Autoloader
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 53 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 40.0 || 55.4 || 67.2 || 74.3 || 79.1 || rowspan="2" | 7.50
| rowspan="2" |10.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 25.0 || 29.4 || 35.7 || 39.5 || 42.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:XM150E5 (152 mm)/Ammunition|XM578E1, M409A1, XM410E1, MGM-51C}}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|right|thumb|x200px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''53''' || 48 ''(+5)'' || 46 ''(+7)'' || 34 ''(+19)'' || 27 ''(+26)'' || 1 ''(+52)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Rack 5 is a first-stage ammo rack, meaning it depletes first but refills from the other racks in the order they are listed. As such, it is the last rack to deplete.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M85 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M85]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 1,080 (180) || 626 || -15°/+60° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M73 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M73]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 6,000 (250) || 500 || - || -
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


XM803 represents a change in direction when compared to previous US tanks. Previous tanks in the tech tree like the [[M4]]<nowiki/>s and [[M60]]<nowiki/>s serve much more as jack-of-all-trade vehicles. Their mobility, guns and armour are all average and do not have especially potent features that user can exploit. This, however, is completely flipped on its head with the transition to the XM803. The survivability, on paper, is extremely poor. It will not survive many hits, if any, from ATGMs or cannon fire thanks to only a three-man crew layout. However, this can be completely disregarded by focusing on the mobility instead. The XM803 has almost twice the horsepower of [[M60]]<nowiki/>s, and weighs significantly less. This makes the tank extremely fast and agile, sometimes even faster than light tanks at the same BR.

Thanks to the extremely good mobility, it can be incredibly difficult for opponents to keep track of it in close range brawls. Thanks to this, the first priority of the user would be to catch single or small groups of enemies off-guard, destroy them, and run away. In the opening stages of a match, it may be tempting to drive in guns-blazing to try and snatch a couple of free kills, however the distribution of enemies across the map and the sheer number of them will mean that they will simply hunt the user down. To avoid a premature and frankly embarrassing demise, move into the centre of the map and wait behind solid cover. Use visual and audio-cues to take note of the number of enemies. If there are lots of enemies, use the solid cover to remain hidden and allow them to prepare for an engagement with your teammates first and pick them off. Avoid getting shot during this time, as the longer into the match the XM803 lasts, the better it will perform. After this, the latter parts of the game are simply a point-and-click adventure.

The APFSDS round has decent penetration and will defeat most foes easily. It also has very high muzzle velocity, almost 1,500 m/s, making aiming at longer ranges easy. The ATGM which comes stock can be very useful, especially when first unlocking the vehicle. Though it has an increased reload time of 12 seconds, it can extend your engagement distance significantly if you lack the necessary means otherwise.

When faced with an enemy around a corner, one can attempt to bait shots by only exposing the frontal hull - opponents will often shoot this, only to find, much to their dismay, that there is nothing of value inside and you may not even have to use your fire extinguisher to put it out due to the fact that it is separate from the rest of the tank. If this is not desirable, one can simply 'pop smoke' and simply reverse out of the way using the exceptional reverse gears.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good selection of ammunition types (Stock ATGM, stock HEAT shell, APFSDS)
* The ATGMs can be fired at any time, even when not stationary.
* Good mobility and acceleration, high speed both forwards and backwards
* Top mounted .50 cal can allow you to damage low-flying aircraft
* Frontal Fuel tank behind the spaced armour which can sometimes absorb enemy chemical effect rounds
* Steady reload time thanks to the autoloader: losing a crew member will not impact the reload speed, and it still functions when putting out a fire
* Has smoke grenade launchers
* Turret mantlet is strong, can even resist certain APFSDS rounds
* Features a hydropneumatic suspension which can have its clearance raised or lowered
* Excellent dual zoom of 8x and 12x

'''Cons:'''

* The spaced armour is not composite armour and cannot provide adequate protection against most guns of its rank
* Frontal armour can be penetrated even by some APHE rounds
* Weak sides and LFP
* Only the clearance can be adjusted with the hydropneumatic suspension
* Ammo racks are large, can be easily hit, and do not have blowout panels
* Vulnerable to the rear due to raised engine deck
* Cramped interior, loss of more than one crew member more likely when penetrated
* Poor roof armour protection on the ammo and engine section
* Chemical projectiles (HEAT and ATGM) will struggle a lot at this battle rating as vehicles with ERA protection are common, especially on Soviet vehicles.
* Reload rate of 7.5s is terrible.

== History ==

Once it became apparent that the MBT-70 project was doomed to fail in the early '70s due to high costs and reliability issues, the U.S. Congress decided to cut their losses on the project by cancelling the MBT-70, and instead, diverted funding to the development of a new project called XM803.

The XM803 was, in essence, envisioned to be a "budget version" of the MBT-70. Although the new vehicle would heavily be based on the MBT-70, inheriting many of its design solutions, it would also try to drastically reduce production costs by using more conventional and only American-made parts. Although this meant that the XM803 had to give up some of its high-tech equipment in favour of lower production costs, it was projected that the influence of these changes on the XM803's combat performance would be minimal.

Despite showing favourable performance and being seen as a promising design by the Army, the XM803 still remained a comparably expensive tank to produce even with the applied changes over the MBT-70. Moreover, neither the MBT-70 nor the XM803 seemed to offer any substantial increase in combat performance over the already in service M60 Patton to justify the high production cost. This ultimately led to the Congress cancelling work on the XM803 only a short while after the cancellation of the MBT-70. In the late 1970s, some funding of the two failed projects would, later on, find its way to support the development of an entirely new, but this time around, more conventional tank project. That tank, of course, being the legendary M1 Abrams itself.

''- From [[wt:en/news/5536-development-xm803-the-second-chance-en|Devblog]]''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_xm_803 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|yxrFP5uW_J8|'''The Shooting Range #104''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:32 discusses the XM-803.|ryfyneZ7390|'''The Shooting Range #106''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 12:39 discusses the XM-803.}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[MBT-70]]
* [[KPz-70]]

;<nowiki>Similar vehicles with large-calibre gun/launcher systems:</nowiki>

* [[M551]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/5536-development-xm803-the-second-chance-en|[Devblog] XM803: The Second Chance]]

{{TankManufacturer GM}}
{{USA medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

M60A2

2024-10-04T08:48:17Z

U78375386:

{{About
| about = American medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = M60 (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m60a2
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

In the Cold War arms race for tank armaments, the US picked up an interest in developing an anti-tank guided missile as the main armament for tanks. As the M60 was coming into service, development started to create an ATGM armament for the tank with the goal of putting it into service by 1965. This developed into a 152 mm gun/launcher system that could fire conventional rounds or a Shillelagh missile system. Enthusiastic with the new weapon system, the US Army aimed to have the weapon equip both their newest [[M551|airborne reconnaissance and assault vehicle]] and their [[MBT-70|main battle tanks]]. As a way to upgrade the existing M60 fleet with the new weapon system, the M60A1 would be converted to equip the system. A modified turret was provided to equip the gun/launcher system; however, the US Army's dream of a simple transition into the weapon system was trashed when complications with the system arose, especially in regards to the sensitive ammunition. While a limited production run was allowed with the tank designated as the '''M60A2''', but continued trouble with the tank and poor troop reception led to the M60A2's phasing out with only 526 units produced.

Introduced in [[Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica"]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rather unique vehicle with its gun/launcher system. Like on the [[M551|M551 Sheridan]], the weapon allows greater flexibility with blasting away lighter-armoured enemies with a 152 mm high-explosive shell to trigger an overpressure, or a HEAT round to penetrate steel armour, or the Shillelagh missile to inflict lethal blows to targets from range. However, unlike on the M551, the taller profile and platform of the M60A2 makes the weapon more difficult to employ as the M60A2 lacks the mobility and small size of the M551. Though the M60A2 is certainly more proof against enemy tank shells at its rank than the M551, it shouldn't be relied upon to stand up against a full-front attack from an enemy due to prominent weak points like the turret cupola. In short, the M60A2 can be a difficult weapon to employ, but can still present some opportunities if played to the weapon's strengths.

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

The M60A2 shares the hull with the other M60 variants. That means that the front hull armour is sufficient to stop 100 mm/105 mm kinetic ammunition of the same tier, while it does not protect you against hollow charge shells with a calibre of 90 mm and above. It also has the same 114 mm thick turret base, which is a weak point. The centre part of the turret is a cast 220 mm plate in front of the cannon breech, which while not thick enough to protect you against any shells of even outdated guns, often eats shots (at cost of the cannon breech). The outer parts of the turret are significantly lower than the breech and rounded like in most post war soviet tanks. If not hit head-on, these sides can bounce most of the incoming shots. On top of the turret is a massive cupola for the commander, which is a big weak spot and often gets your commander knocked out, even the whole tank if your opponent is firing shells with explosive filler. The side armour on the hull is thick enough to withstand cannon fire of up to 25 mm (excluding APDS and the part around the gearbox), while cannons with a calibre of up to 40 mm will have significant problems and the tank may withstand a large number of shells. It will however not stop shells fired out of cannons of equal tier. The back of the hull can even be penetrated by HMGs. The turret side is around the cannon is 120-140 mm thick and will resist most shots if angled. The lower part however will most likely get penetrated often due to the reduced thickness the further towards the turret back you get. The hull is completely filled with ammunition, ammo is placed to the left, right and behind the driver (which is sitting in the middle of the front hull). Taking a reduced amount of shells is therefore advisable. The crew is well spaced, a solid shot in the front turret will likely only knock out a single crew member, since all crew members sit next to each other and not behind each other like in most other tanks, but this obviously increases the chance to get destroyed due to a side-shot. Overall the armour will not completely protect you, but you have good chances to eat a bigger amount of shells than most other tanks.

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


The mobility of the vehicle is average for its tier. With a top speed of 48 km/h (RB) and -11 km/h in reverse, it is not as fast as other tanks like the Leopard 1, but fast enough to get where you want quickly. The manoeuvrability is average to bad: you lose a lot of speed while turning. You can, however, turn on the spot thanks to neutral steering.

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,162|rbMinHp=663}}

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

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

{{main|M162 (152 mm)}}
When firing from hull-down positions with the Shillelagh, the user must be extremely careful of how close the cannon is from the ground. If the tank is too close, the missile will dip after firing and hit the ground. The user should practice pointing up before firing and quickly acquiring the target again to avoid this. It is especially important for the M60A2, as the small amount of missiles carried (only seven rounds) can easily be wasted.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M162 (152 mm)|152 mm M162]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 46 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 15.60 || rowspan="2" | 13.80 || rowspan="2" | 12.72 || rowspan="2" | 12.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:M162 (152 mm)/Ammunition|M409A1, M657A2, MGM-51B Shillelagh}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''46''' || 39 ''(+7)'' || 32 ''(+14)'' || 27 ''(+19)'' || 25 ''(+21)'' || 12 ''(+34)'' || 1 ''(+45)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* Empty turret: 25 ''(+21)'' shells.

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

{{main|M85 (12.7 mm)|M73 (7.62 mm)}}

The M60A2 is equipped with a coaxial 7.62 mm LMG and a 12.7 mm HMG on top of the turret. Like on most American vehicles, this allows you to engage lightly armoured vehicles and slow aeroplanes at close to medium ranges.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M85 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M85]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 1,260 (180) || 626 || -15°/+60° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M73 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M73]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 5,500 (250) || 500 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The M60A2 has suffered since the replacement of "Hull Break" with the "Overpressure" mechanic. The main drawback is its main armament, most notably the stock HEAT round. The HEAT round can penetrate the vast majority of targets, however the extremely poor post-penetration damage will not consistently destroy the target in one shot. The high-explosive fairs better due to being able to overpressure most targets (most notably Leopards, or anything resembling that design philosophy) with a single shot to the turret side, turret roof or hull. Before the Shillelagh missile is unlocked, it is recommended to use the high-explosive round as the primary ammunition, while keeping a few HEAT rounds on-hand for the more difficult-to-crack nuts such as the late-era Soviet/Russian heavies and the odd [[Maus]] heavy tank. One downside to consider is the long reload, which will make follow-up shots difficult if the enemy is still operational after the first shot.

Hitting the enemies can be made simpler with further researched modules, such as the laser rangefinder that allows automatic range adjustments for the distant targets. This can help with using the parabolic arc of the HEAT and HE rounds to hit enemies from behind cover with just the cupola visible, though this may not work consistently. The low velocity of the HEAT and HE rounds make hitting long-distance targets difficult, even with the range finder, but this can be alleviated by unlocking of the Shillelagh missile. Though the missile will increase the reload time by almost 20 seconds, the SACLOS missile guidance can make hitting distant and/or moving targets easier and can regularly trigger overpressure or detonate ammunition. The missile is easier to aim compared to the TOW missile also available at this BR as it is much more reactive and therefore the self-corrections the missile are much less likely to throw it off course. With some wrestling and careful adjustment it can be used to hit stationary aerial targets like helicopters.

Without any mobility upgrades, the M60A2 also struggles to keep up with most of its contemporaries. It is reasonably quick, however the extra weight makes its acceleration poor and will hinder you in reaching powerful positions. Another noticeably poor characteristic is the neutral-steer, with the vehicle struggling to turn on slopes or any form of defilade. However, despite the poor mobility, it performs quite well in close-quarters. The reverse gear is slow, but is still good enough to get the vehicle out of danger after peeking and firing a shot. The turret rotation is also quite good, especially for the size of the cannon which means that the Starship can hold its own in close-quarters.

Due to the odd shape of the turret, and the hull being inherited from the M60 platform, the Starship can be rather difficult for some opposing vehicles to destroy it. For example, from the front, common foes such as the Leopard 1 and other M60s firing kinetic rounds will struggle to effectively deal damage. However, it is not invincible. The turret neck is a large weak spot and can be penetrated by the even [[Tiger II (Family)|Tiger II]]. Not only this, but the large commanders cupola will fuse most APHE rounds and funnel them down into the turret, or (in the case of the Russian BR-412 round found on most Russian mediums at the BR) overpressure the vehicle. The hull is still penetrable by most common HEAT rounds, as is the turret, though its odd shape may make it difficult to consistently knock out all the turret crew in one shot.

Overall, the M60A2 is a hardy vehicle, but struggles when it is not supported and/or fighting heavily armoured vehicles. The M60A2 can be a rather useful asset for brawling with its one-hit potential, but the long reload and inconsistent nature of the shells it fires can make it difficult to consistently work around. It can be useful for long-arming shells or sniping with the missile but its poor mobility makes some useful positions inaccessible.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Very fast turret rotation
* Stabilizer gives fire-on-the-move capability and better reactivity compared to other ATGM vehicles ([[BMP-2|BMP]], [[Marder 1A3|Marder]], [[Warrior]])
* ATGMs can be fired on the move
* Agile missile - can be used to attack helicopters
* Turret front is hard to predictably penetrate due to its odd design
* Armour is difficult for enemies to penetrate in a panic due to small weak spots
* Has smoke launchers
* Same ammunition as the [[M551|M551 Sheridan]] - familiar weaponry

'''Cons:'''

* Relatively poor mobility
* Loud and distinctive engine tone
* Cupola is a large weak spot and fuses most APHE.
* Cannot fire from cover reliably like the [[IT-1]] or [[RakJPz 2|Raketenjagdpanzers]]
* Extremely long reload
* Stock HEAT has extremely poor post-pen damage and seldom triggers overpressure
* ATGM reload time is several seconds longer than normal ammunition
* ATGM has a very low starting speed making it hard to hit moving targets at closer ranges
* Can only hold 7 ATGMs total

== History ==

'''Design'''
[[File:M60A2 at AAF Museum (1).jpg|thumb|M60A2 at American Armoured Foundation Museum in Danville, Virginia.]]
The M60A2 used the Type B turret which featured an unconventional low profile design. The turret base was disc shaped and was very low profile, while the center part was much larger and consisted of a lane running front to rear that mounted the gun breech and behind that the commander's position. The gunner was seated under the disc portion of the right side of the turret, while the loader was located on the opposite side under the disc portion. The commander was located in a rotating cupola at the rear of the center part of the turret. The turret received an interior Kevlar spall liner. A basket was mounted to the rear of the turret for stowage. A bank of four M226 smoke grenades is located on each side of the turret for a total of eight smoke grenade launchers. Additionally, a xenon white light or infrared spotlight could be fitted to the left of the gun for night operations.

The M60A2's main armament consisted of a two-plane stabilized 152 mm M162 gun/launcher mounted in the center part of the turret. The M162 could fire both HE and HEAT conventional rounds as well as the MGM-51 Shillelagh ATGMs. The HE rounds were used against enemy infantry or emplacements, the HEAT rounds were used against enemy armour at close range (it had an effective range of 1.5 km), and the ATGMs were used against enemy armour at longer ranges of up to 3 km for the MGM-51B and C variants. 33 conventional rounds and 13 missiles could be carried in the tank.

Testing of the weapon system found a number of issues. Notably, there were a number of misfires and premature detonations caused by leftover propellant in the gun barrel and breech. As such, a fume extractor was fitted which was later replaced by a Closed Bore Scavenger System (CBSS) which used compressed air to push the fumes out of the gun.

Secondary armament of the M60A2 consisted of two machine guns. One was a coaxial 7.62 mm M73 machine gun and the other was a 12.7 mm M85 machine gun in the commander's cupola. These were later replaced by the 7.62 mm M240 and 12.7 mm M2HB Browning respectively. 5,560 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and 1,080 rounds of 12.7 mm ammunition were carried.

The M60A2 received the M51 Missile Guidance System (MGS), produced by Ford's Aerospace Division. The M51 MGS included an AN/WG-1 ruby laser rangefinder as well as an infrared beam system for control of the MGM-51 Shillelagh ATGMs. The MGM-51 was guided after launch by IR beam which the gunner had to keep on the target (by way of his aiming sight) the entire flight in order to hit the target. The M60A2 was one of if not the very first production tank used by the US Army to include a laser rangefinder. The laser rangefinder allowed accurate ranging of the target up to 4,000 meters to provide the gunner with a firing solution. On the other hand, the laser rangefinder was ineffective at night and was only accurate out to 600 meters at 25% moonlight.

The hull of the M60A2 was originally identical to that of the M60A1. It was powered by a 750 horsepower Continental AVDS-1790-2A engine coupled to the General Motors CD-850-5 cross-drive transmission with two forward and one reverse gear, allowing the M60A2 to reach a top speed of 48 km/h. It used the standard T97 track assembly. Many M60A2s were later upgraded to the RISE standard with an improved AVDS-1790-2C engine and T142 tracks.

'''Production and Service'''

After the M60A1E2 prototype was designated as the Tank, Combat, Full Tracked: 152-mm Gun/Launcher, M60A2 in 1970, the US Army ordered the M60A2 in 1971. Production lasted from 1973 to 1975 with the total production of the M60A2 at 540, all of which were produced at the Chrysler Tank Plant in Warren, Michigan.

The first US Army unit to receive its M60A2 tanks was the B Company, 1st Battalion, 32 Armor Battalion in June 1975.

Ultimately the M60A2 tank was a failure, mostly down to the weapon system. The MGM-51 Shillelagh proved to be an extremely expensive and problematic system due to its advanced technology. There were issues with the propellant as well as the tracking and guidance systems. Not only this, but the fact that the MGM-51 was the only anti-tank weapon at range limited the anti-tank role of the M60A2 greatly; the gunner had to keep the target in his sight during the entire flight of the ATGM from the gun barrel to the impact point. Additionally, the MGM-51 ATGM could not be fired while on the move despite the fully stabilized gun, as well as the fact that the MGM-51 was much more expensive than a conventional round.

These issues, among others, contributed to a poor opinion of the tank by the US Army. The M60A2 even gained the unofficial nickname of "Starship" due to its unconventional turret appearance and advanced technology. The M60A2 was removed completely from service by 1981. Many former M60A2s had their turret removed and replaced by the more conventional M60A3 turret and were put back into service. M60A2s were also converted to noncombat variants in 1985, including the M60A1 AVLB bridge layer and the M60 Panther MDCV mine-clearing vehicle. Many M60A2s were also converted to the M728A1 CEV (combat engineering vehicle) variant as well.

The M60A2 was never cleared for export.
[[File:M60A1E1 Prototype.jpg|thumb|M60A1E1 Prototype at AMVETS Post 93 in Armada, Michigan. Vehicle since repainted.]]

'''Variants'''

* XM66 - Designation for Type A, B, and C turret concepts.
* M60A1E1 - M60E1 hulls with Type A turret fitted with XM81 gun/launcher.
* M60A1E2 - M60A1 hull with Type B turret fitted with XM81E13 gun/launcher. The M60A1E2 was accepted for service, with modifications, as the M60A2.
* M60A1E3 - M60A1E2 experimentally fitted with 105 mm M68E1 rifled gun.
* M60A1E4 - Concept of M60 hull fitted with Type C turret with remote weapons system. Only a turret mock-up was built.
* M60A2 - Production version of the M60A1E2, fitted with M162 gun/launcher and received minor modifications such as a laser rangefinder.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m60a2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|60IVWW1_Flw|'''The Shooting Range #52''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 02:24 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|zoBPU0n65_A|'''The M60 family''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:22 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

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

* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
* ''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.''

{{TankManufacturer Chrysler Defense}}
{{USA medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

M109A1

2024-09-05T10:55:28Z

U78375386:

{{About
|about = American tank destroyer '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|usage = other versions
|link = M109 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m109a1
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced into American service in 1973 as an improved version of the M109 self-propelled howitzer. The main improvement was the installation of a new 155 mm M185 cannon, which had a longer barrel and a higher muzzle velocity than the previous M126. This increased the effective range of the M109A1 from 14.6 km to 18 km, giving it an advantage over foreign artillery. It was known for its role in supporting the US Army's operations in Europe and the Middle East, where it could provide fire support for ground forces and counter-battery fire against enemy artillery. The existing M109A1's were later converted to the M109A2 standard, which incorporated 27 RAM (Reliability, Availability, Maintainability) improvements.

The {{Specs|name}} was introduced in [[Update "Kings of Battle"]]. It has similar characteristics to the Soviet [[2S3M]] and can deliver powerful 155 mm shells over long distances and relocate swiftly to evade enemy fire. The M109A1 has a terrible rate of fire and large ammo capacity, and its mobility is complemented by a good top speed and acceleration. However, its armour is not very thick, so it's recommended to use the M109A1's speed to avoid direct confrontations when possible. Moreover, it is essential to keep in mind that the M109A1 has low gun depression and cannot depend on firing from elevated positions.

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

The armour on the M109 is nearly non-existent, being surrounded by 32 mm thick aluminium alloy 5083, which effectively comes down to 13-20 mm RHA. This leaves the vehicle vulnerable to even light machine gun fire from any angle. The weakness of the armour turns into a strong-suit against AP shells that will pass straight through, unable to fuse or create enough spall to inflict major damage. Direct hits from HE and other chemical shells such as HEAT, will most likely leave the M109 a burning wreck. The 6 crew members are pretty spaced apart in the turret, giving a plus to crew survivability.

'''Armour type:''' 


{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 32 mm || 32 mm ''Top'' 32 mm ''Bottom'' || 32 mm || 10 - 34 mm
|-
| Turret || 37 mm ''Turret front'' 33 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 32 mm || 32 mm || 7 - 33 mm
|-
| Cupola || 33 mm || 33 mm || 33 mm || 33 mm
|-
|}

'''Notes:''' 


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

''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.''

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=575|rbMinHp=358}}

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

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

{{main|M185 (155 mm)}}

The M109A1's high projectile speed compared to other M109 variants makes it a bit easier to aim, but generally still low. Its high explosive round is very effective against German tanks, not so much against Soviet ones. Remember to pre-turn your turret, as your rotation speed is abysmal.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M185 (155 mm)|155 mm M185]] || 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" | 28 || rowspan="2" | -3°/+75° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || 9.7 || 13.4 || 16.3 || 18.0 || 19.1 || rowspan="2" | 17.29 || rowspan="2" | 15.30 || rowspan="2" | 14.10 || rowspan="2" | 13.30
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 6.5 || 7.7 || 9.4 || 10.3 || 11.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:M185 (155 mm)/Ammunition|M107, M107 (PF), M110}}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''28''' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __
|-
|}

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

{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)}}

The 12.7 mm M2HB is able to penetrate lightly-armoured vehicles, take down low-flying aircraft or mow down obstacles. The machine gun has a limited amount of ammo, so use it sparingly.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 600 (200) || 575 || -10°/+50° || ±180°
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The 155 mm cannon is surprisingly adept at destroying any tank, even up to heavies of the same or slightly higher BRs. It is important to remember that accuracy is low with this gun, but destructive capability is astronomical. Thus, it is best to put yourself in a well defended position and rely on ambush tactics, at least in Realistic mode. The M107(PF) makes a exceptionally good anti-air round against heavy bombers and helicopters due to its big calibre, but good aim is needed due to the long reload time. The M109 makes an exceptionally good target for planes with its large profile and thin armour, so plane strafing is something you'll have to be careful of.

Due to the reliable ability to overpressure, the M109A1 can be useful in uptiers, especially against Soviet and German late/post-war heavies.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Access to HE and HE-VT shells with more than 9 kg of TNT
* Top speed of 56 km/h that it can easily reach
* Can be surprisingly survivable, usually not taken out in a single shot
* Impressive 75° elevation limit
* Top mounted .50 cal for taking out softer targets

'''Cons:'''

* Hindered by a limited gun depression of -3 degrees
* The gunner optics have a low zoom level (4X)
* Thin armour, will only stop small arms fire
* Long reload (17.1 seconds stock)

== History ==


=== [[wt:en/news/8537-development-m109-the-king-of-battle-en|Devblog]] ===
Development of the M109 began in the early 1950s under a U.S. program to develop a common chassis for a number of different SPH designs. Upon entering service, the M109 was immediately deployed to the Vietnam War. However, its operational service during the conflict was cut short due to serious mechanical malfunctions which rendered the fleet inoperable. Nonetheless, after being addressed and receiving its first upgrade to the A1 standard, the M109 would continue service with U.S. forces for decades to come, taking part in virtually all military conflicts where U.S. forces were deployed in. Once its design eventually matured, the M109 successfully resisted replacement on multiple occasions and continuously received upgrades until the present day.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m109a1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|QjkKhVqNmfY|'''The Shooting Range #381''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:26 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[M109 (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8537-development-m109-the-king-of-battle-en|[Devblog] M109: The King of Battle]]

{{USA tank destroyers}}

Charioteer Mk VII

2024-06-18T12:16:08Z

U78375386: Added enemies to watch out for

{{About
| about = British medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the Swedish version
| link = Charioteer Mk VII (Sweden)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=uk_charioteer_mk_7
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== 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 experienced 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)}}

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 363 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.

{| 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" | - || 19.0 || 26.4 || 32.0 || 35.4 || 37.6 || rowspan="2" | 8.19 || rowspan="2" | 7.25 || rowspan="2" | 6.68 || rowspan="2" | 6.30
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 11.9 || 14.0 || 17.0 || 18.8 || 20.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:20pdr OQF Mk.I (84 mm)/Ammunition|Shot Mk.1, Shot Mk.3, Shell Mk.1, 20pdr Shell SS Mk.1}}

==== [[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''' || 21 ''(+4)'' || 11 ''(+14)'' || 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)}}

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.

{| 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 || - || -
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The Charioteer, as with most western tank destroyers, 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.

'''Enemies to Note:'''

* [[M41A1|M41]] Walker Bulldog
** The M41 is a consistent threat from a number of decent tech trees, it is likely that there will be at least one on each team. What it lacks in sheer firepower compared to the Charioteer, it makes up for in gun handling and mobility. Since the Charioteer is so thinly armoured, it poses a threat to you from any range. This is not an issue in itself, as if the user can avoid being shot then the armour is not a problem to contend with. However, the advantage is held by the M41 in a duel as it is a lot more reactive and can get a shot on you much more quickly and reliably retreat away from attacks. Try to remain undetected when fighting it and, when it is distracted, shoot centre-mass.
* [[BTR-80A|BTR-80]]
** The sheer speed and the amount of empty space in the BTR makes it almost impossible to deal with if the user is on open ground and, due to the poor gun handling of the Charioteer, means that it can be easily overrun and shred to pieces. Remain undetected when they are around, and engage with extreme prejudice to avoid being detected.
* [[T34]]/[[T29]]
** These heavies are difficult to penetrate from the front, so do not engage it when the hull is facing you as you will not be able to reliably destroy it. If it is angled from the front in any way then shoot its front sprocket, the sides are so thinly armoured that the shot will travel straight through into the turret crew and, if not destroying it, will seriously cripple it.
* [[IS-3]]
** The IS-3 is extremely well armoured, and has a few 'red-herring' weak spots. The most obvious would be the lower front plate, however shooting this will only reliably kill the driver. The same goes for the turret ring and turret cheeks, which will often catch the shot and do little to no damage. When facing the IS-3 in a head on, do your best to disable its gun and preferably after it has already fired. This will leave it out of the action for nearly a full minute which is ample time to deal with it. A shot into the side will easily dispatch of it.

=== 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: Charioteer Mk VII Tank Destroyer''' - ''Virus''}}

== 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}}

FV4005

2024-05-13T08:57:39Z

U78375386: :)

{{Specs-Card
|code=uk_fv4005
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

Following the debut of the [[IS-3]] in 1945 and amidst fears that the Soviet Union would continue developing increasingly heavy tanks, a requirement was drawn up in 1950 for a tank with a gun capable of defeating a 152 mm armour plate sloped at 60° from up to 2 km. However, it was quickly realised that even the most powerful Allied guns of the time, namely the 120 mm cannon of the [[Conqueror]] and the American 155 mm mounted to tanks such as the [[T30]], were not able to perform such a feat. Instead, a new 183 mm cannon was developed, firing HESH shells to allow both anti-armour and anti-fortification use. It was originally planned to mount the new gun on the same "Universal tank" hull as the Conqueror. However, this would take significant development, so it was decided to initially provide a stop-gap measure by utilising the hull of the [[Centurion (Family)|Centurion]], becoming the '''FV4005'''. The first prototype ("Stage I") mounted the gun in an open turret, featuring a concentric gun recoil system, mechanised loading assistance, and a recoil spade mounted on the rear of the chassis to allow the vehicle to dig in when firing. Following from this, '''"Stage II"''' featured a light but fully enclosed turret, doing away with the loading assist by providing space for an extra loader, as well as replacing the concentric recoil system with a new hydropneumatic version. However, the IS-3 and its developments did not materialise in as great numbers as was feared, and the project was officially cancelled in 1957.

Introduced in [[Update 1.67 "Assault"]], the FV4005 Stage II is truly the epitome of a "glass cannon". With the largest-calibre conventional tank gun in the game at 183 mm, even glancing hits from its powerful HESH shells tend to result in significant damage to a target. Despite their size, the shells have decent muzzle velocity, making them relatively easy to range and aim. However, the size of the shell can also pose a challenge, being likely to glance off extraneous components such as the barrel, leading to minimal internal damage; coupled with the particularly long reload, extreme care is required when taking a shot. Traverse is also limited to ±45°, due to the strong recoil. While the gun is extremely effective, the same cannot be said for its mount. The Centurion chassis struggles under the weight of the gun, resulting in rather mediocre mobility, while the turret, only lightly armoured to compensate, can be defeated by even .50 cal rounds. The survivability is both helped and hindered by the tank's spacious nature: while it is a large, highly visible target, a single shot often is not enough to take out the dispersed crew (unless it detonates the large ammunition lining the turret's sides), allowing the vehicle to retreat and reposition.

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

The FV4005 Stage II has essentially negligible armour, due to the gigantic turret providing only 14 mm of protection from any given angle. Due to this and the vehicle's crew being largely based in the turret, the FV4005 is extremely vulnerable to even .50 calibre machine guns, and any large calibre explosives can and will inflict overpressure damage on them, which is always fatal.

The only redeeming traits in regards to survivability are that the crew may survive some side-on attacks due to the sheer size of the gun breech, and that the sheer number of crew members in the turret means that the vehicle will remain alive. Regardless, an FV4005 player should not count on surviving anything bar the lightest of machine gun fire.

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour
* Cast homogeneous armour (Gun mantlet)

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 76.2 mm (61°) ''Front glacis'' 76.2 mm (44°) ''Lower glacis'' || 50.8 (12°) + 6 mm || 38 mm (6°) ''Top'' 38 mm (13°) ''Bottom'' || 38 mm 29 mm ''Engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 14 mm (10°) ''Turret front'' 14 mm (12-61°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 14 mm (0-8°) || 14 mm (1°) || 14 mm
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Tracks and suspension wheels are both 20 mm thick.
* Spaced armour plates are placed on the side of the Centurion chassis, giving an additional 6 mm of side armour.
* The rear has a steel rack providing an additional 15 mm of protection.

'''Crew:'''

* Commander
* Gunner
* Loader x2
* Driver

Total: 5 crew members

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=923|rbMinHp=575}}

The {{PAGENAME}} doesn't represent anything special in terms of mobility; the vehicle utilises a Centurion hull and retains most of the same characteristics, including the somewhat sub-par reverse speed. Hull traverse times are reasonable, but not exceptional, and maximum forwards speed is a limited 28 km/h in RB/SB.

Due to the vehicle's limited mobility, players should play conservatively, avoiding flanking routes and any areas where there is no immediate escape route available. The Tracks upgrade is particularly valuable on the {{PAGENAME}}, as due to its limited turret traverse distance the improved hull traverse will on occasion be a saving grace.

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

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

{{main|QF L4A1 (183 mm)}}

The FV4005 Stage II sports one of the largest cannons available in War Thunder Ground Forces, the 183 mm QF L4A1, with the second longest single-shell base reload time of any vehicle, at 38.9 seconds. The L4A1 is restricted to the use of HESH only, due to the weapon originally being envisaged as an anti-emplacement howitzer.

HESH has slower fuse than HE and HEAT and won't detonate on most foliage, but it cannot penetrate more than one layer of armour, so it can be blocked by side skirts and, sometimes, even by chassis or machine guns. Despite problems with penetration of the countermeasures, HESH can be used to great effect against almost any possible target, provided shots are placed well - ideally on angled side armour, while ensuring the armour isn't angled enough to bounce and isn't protected by an additional layer.

HESH could also be placed straight on top of the target crew compartment, as long as it is strong enough to break through the armour (generally, angled frontal armour is only built with kinetic shells and HE in mind) and isn't blocked by internal modules. In the case of the L1 shell, which the FV4005 uses, even the frontal hull armour of the [[Maus]] is not enough to sustain a direct hit.

Despite the size and weight of the L1 round, it has reasonable ballistics at 716 m/s velocity. Due to a colossal explosive power, even if the shell misses it will sometimes destroy tanks with overpressure damage and create holes in the ground. Maximum penetration and effective range of the explosion effect are difficult to measure.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[QF L4A1 (183 mm)|183 mm QF L4A1]] || 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" | 12 || rowspan="2" | -7°/+15° || rowspan="2" | ±45° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 15.85 || 21.94 || 26.64 || 29.46 || 31.34 || rowspan="2" | 38.87 || rowspan="2" | 34.38 || rowspan="2" | 31.69 || rowspan="2" | 29.90
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 10.71 || 12.60 || 15.30 || 16.92 || 18.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:QF L4A1 (183 mm)/Ammunition|Shell L1}}

HESH round performance improves, within reason, when targets are angled. This is due to the squash head the rounds are tipped by - on larger angles the head will squash further and result in more internal damage. However, the improvements with angling are limited once the rounds reach their ricochet angles - past 73° of angling the rounds have a chance to bounce. As such it's best to limit rounds to less than 70° where possible.

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! Ammo type
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''12''' || ''Projectiles'' ''Propellants'' || 7 ''(+5)'' 11 ''(+1)'' || 1 ''(+11)'' 9 ''(+3)'' || N/A 7 ''(+5)'' || N/A 5 ''(+7)'' || N/A 3 ''(+9)'' || N/A 1 ''(+11)'' || No
|-
|}
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
'''Notes''':

* The FV4005 has extremely limited ammunition, with a maximum of 12 rounds. Despite this, it's no mean feat to run out of ammo due to the extended reload time.
* Projectiles and propellant bags are modeled individually and disappear as soon as they're loaded/fired.
* Projectiles racks empty from back to front.

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

{{main|L3A1 (7.62 mm)}}

The FV4005's coaxial machine gun is of limited value; it should be used to clear small obstacles or if possible crew members in open-top vehicles. It can be used as a ranging machine gun while keeping in mind that the main weapon's ballistics do not follow the machine gun's trajectory exactly as the MG has a slightly higher round velocity.

{| 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 || 3,750 (250) || 500 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The main in-game use of this tank is the elimination of hull-down tanks (similar to [[T30]]), super-armoured heavy tanks in general (similar to [[IS-7]]), well-armoured SPG's (similar to [[Ho-Ri_Production|Ho-Ri]]) and the likes of them. Meanwhile, you still can help your team by hiding around and eliminating reckless rushers in 1 hit, when they aren't looking.

Your main goal in between your hunts is to survive and stay hidden, as you only have enough armour to stop 7.62 mm machine guns, and your reloading time is exceptionally long, especially if you lose either of the loaders. Contrary to popular belief, if you aim poorly with FV4005 it does not knock anything out of existence with a single shot anyway. You should first get out of your cover (or wait for the enemy to get into your firing lines), then take aim at the enemy, and only then fire. HESH shell will do the rest for you if your aim and weak spot suggestion was correct.

Weak spots depend on the mode you play in. As an example, for most Soviet tanks, the frontal weak spot is the left side of the hull (for you - right side). It's also possible to target the back of their turrets in Realistic battle. However, if you fire at back of the turret of IS-2 in arcade mode, it may still survive with just 1 crew member (driver with very high "vitality" level), go into "last stand" mode, turn its turret and fire back at you. As such, try to aim at places, from which spalling can definitely hit every last crew member.

Likewise, in Arcade mode, it's not enough to just eliminate crew in your turret, and your driver is hidden in the decently armoured hull. However, if your FV4005 is attacked by explosives from 105+ mm gun, it will likely be overpressurized and destroyed. If the gun breech is hit and damaged, there is also a chance that the shell inside will also be destroyed, and you won't be able to avenge yourself even if you manage to repair before a follow up shot.

When firing at an enemy tank from its front, the shell can hit its barrel and only destroy the barrel and other external components, potentially only doing minimal damage. This is a relatively common occurrence as the sheer size of the shell and the volumetric modelling in combination make the shrapnel and explosive force get absorbed by the external modules. To avoid this, aim for turret cheeks or a disabling shot on their upper plate which will kill the driver (and on German tanks, destroy the transmission) and stop them from advancing, especially in urban maps.

The FV4005 will likely encounter a lot of German tanks. These include the [[Tiger II (P)]] and the [[Tiger II (H)]] most prominently. There are a few shots that are to be used. If you can see the rear or sides of the turret, shoot the tapered rear end to hit the primary ammunition storage, which will cook off. If the side of the turret is visible but the ammunition is not (i.e. if the Tiger is only partially peeking from cover), shoot the side of the turret, which will most likely kill the turret crew. From the front, the turret cheeks are the most viable shot, usually destroying the Tiger II in Ground Realistic Battles.

Do not take shots at the side of the hull on most vehicles, unless it is a significantly unarmoured or small target, as the tracks and/or sideskirts will absorb the shell's damage. Cupola shots are a hit-and-miss, as on some tanks, volumetric will cause the shell to detonate on an external module as opposed to plain armour, negating most, if not all internal damage.

HESH shells have a slow fuse, which does not react to literally every obstacle it hits, unlike with the HEAT or HE, sometimes allowing FV4005 to fire through some foliage, flimsy fences and the likes. While it does not look very useful at first, it can be especially beneficial in Arcade mode or in some specific sniper setup, as AB players are often extremely uncomfortable with firing without aim assist confirmation, which is easily prevented by obstacles such as a weak metal fence built around a capture point, while you can learn the gun ballistics and train yourself to fire by using distance indicators and tank profile (use "select" hotkey, which is by default set to mouse wheel, to see hostile tank overall size and position) instead, to surprise them and thus avoid return fire.

Going into sniper duels without preparations, like rangefinding and adjusting the gun beforehand, with this tank is ill-advised, as any sniper tank needs significantly less time to aim at you, due to the fact that your turret cannot turn freely, your enormous profile, and faster flying ammunition types. They also can destroy you in 1 hit as well, by hitting your ammo, or even by causing the turret to explode without engaging it directly, particularly noticeable with ATGM tanks like [[Type 60 ATM]].

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Armed with the gigantic 183 mm cannon, causes extremely large dopamine release.
* 183 mm HESH will cause the spalling of enemy armour that is 228 mm thick or less. Devastating to even the most heavily armoured tanks
* Large gun breech can potentially protect some of the turret crew from incoming fire and shrapnel.
* The co-axial machine gun has a very similar trajectory to the 183 mm gun, making it ideal for ranging.
* Has the hull of a Centurion, it will block or deflect shots and explosions which missed the turret with modest efficiency
* L1 shell can damage the ground, but the tank reloads so slowly, that there has to be multiple of FV4005, or the match has to be stalled for quite long for them to do any strategically significant damage
* Being on the hull of a Centurion, it has a usable reverse gear, something Cromwell-based tanks like the [[Charioteer Mk VII|Charioteer]] or [[Challenger]] do not have the luxury of.

'''Cons:'''

* Huge turret with only 14 mm of armour all around. Can be shredded by .50 cal machine guns and auto cannons, vulnerable even to HEAT overpressure damage if hit
* Lots of ammo lining the entire turret which can be detonated with little effort
* 4 of the 5 crew members are in turret. An APHE penetration or overpressure will likely knock out the tank
* HESH is inherently unreliable, a hit to a wrong spot on certain enemy tank chassis or armour may do no damage at all despite shell's potential, while a close miss might annihilate enemy tank regardless
* Carries only 12 shells
* Due to the thin turret armour and sheer size of the tank, is a prime target for AA guns and all aircraft at the BR
* Turret cannot traverse a full 360 degrees, you'll need to traverse the entire tank left or right to engage enemies on your flanks or rear
* Incredibly long reload time, a knocked out or injured loader can easily push the reload time over 1 minute

== History ==


Work started on a 180 mm self-propelled gun in 1950 by Nuffield Mechanizations & Aero. Designated the ''FV215B'', the plan was to mount the gun onto the Conqueror hull.<ref name="Ware pg79">Ware 2012a, p. 79</ref> It was intended for the three trial vehicles to be built from the span of 1951-1955. The project was cancelled in early 1957 with no prototypes produced.<ref name="Ware pg80">Ware 2012a, p. 80</ref>

During the development phase of the FV215B, another project was done on the [[Centurion Mk 3|Centurion]].<ref name="Ware pg80" /> Labeled the '''FV4005''', it was an attempt to mount the 180 mm on the Centurion hull. The design phase is distinctive in two parts, Stage I and II. Stage I had the gun mounted on an open-topped hull. The gun had a concentric recoil system and an auto-loader. '''Stage II''' had the gun encased in a lightly armoured, splinter-proof turret with a conventional recoil system and manual loading.<ref name="Ware pg78">Ware 2012a, p. 78</ref><ref name="Ware pg109">Ware 2012b, p. 109</ref>

In December 1952, the 180 mm gun was increased into a 183 mm gun mounting. Though a single prototype was made for testing, the project never passed basic feasibility. In August 1957, the project was abandoned as well.<ref name="Ware pg78" /><ref name="Ware pg109" /> The lone prototype is currently at the Bovington Tank Museum, under restoration.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=uk_fv4005 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|PosWOnOGkSo|'''Best experimental vehicles''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 6:37 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


* [[Conway]] - A vehicle built under a similar principle of a large gun on a Centurion chassis.

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/4540-development-fv4005-big-box-surprise-en|[Devblog] FV4005 - Big Box Surprise]]
* [[Wikipedia:Centurion_(tank)#Fighting_Vehicle_numbers|[Wikipedia] Centurion (tank) - Fighting Vehicle numbers]]

=== References ===

;Citations
<references />

;Bibliography

* Ware Pat. ''Images of War: British Tanks: 1945 to the Present Day'' Great Britain: Pen & Sword Military, 2012a
* Ware Pat. ''Images of War Special: The Centurion Tank'' Great Britain: Pen & Sword Military, 2012b

{{TankManufacturer Department of Tank Design}}
{{Britain tank destroyers}}

M3 Bradley

2024-05-10T12:14:09Z

U78375386: removed the radiator part in the cons as it is extremely situational and not really going to be useful. mentioned the practicality of the gun for engaging helicopters.

{{About
| about = American light tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| other
| usage-1 = the other version
| link-1 = M3A3 Bradley
| usage-2 = other uses
| link-2 = M3 (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m3_bradley
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The search for the ideal mechanized infantry combat vehicle (MICV) in the US military began as early as 1964, but design dissatisfaction and the Vietnam War complicated the procurement process while introducing new requests in what the US wants in their infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). A breakthrough to the final design was made when the FMC Corporation designed XM723 MICV was considered for the vehicle of choice for the IFV as the XM2 IFV, though the design was complicated again by having to also fit with the US Cavalry requirement as the XM3 Cavalry Fighting Vehicle (CFV). Following evaluations and criticism of the overall program, the XM2/3 was provided production approval in January 1980 as the M2 and M3 Bradley. Though both the infantry and cavalry variant shared similar exterior looks, the cavalry differed with the infantry seat area configured to contain more ammunition and missiles for the M242 chain gun and TOW launchers. As improvements were introduced into the design, the original M2/M3 variants were designated with an "A0" suffix. Though some A0s were sent before the onset of Operation Desert Storm in 1991 (both M2A0 and M3A0 consisted of 19% of all Bradleys in theater), the A0s were more intended as attrition spares while the improved A1 and A2 variants were sent into combat.

Introduced in [[Update 1.85 "Supersonic"]], the M3 Bradley remains a relatively unique vehicle in the American lineup as an infantry fighting vehicle. Like in real-life, players would have to handle the Bradley's relatively large size alongside main battle tanks and its paper-thin armour against both kinetic and chemical shells. The mobility is nothing spectacular to write home about either aside from being able to get the Bradley from point A to point B in a suitable manner. That said, the variety of firepower it is able to dish out makes it a lethal machine. The APDS shells the autocannon armament fires can penetrate more than a few tanks from the side armour, not to mention being able to make mincemeat out of lightly armoured vehicles. However, when facing tanks or faraway targets, the TOW missiles are a great piece of tool to have to ensure a critical hit even from far out, the only downside being the long missile launcher deployment time from when the Bradley is moving to coming to a halt.

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


Armour protection of the Bradley CFV (Cavalry Fighting Vehicle) is relatively weak, it does offer protection from machine guns and some lower penetrating autocannon fire from the front, but most autocannons will easily penetrate the sides of the vehicle damaging components, crew and often detonating ammo stored in the rear of the vehicle. As aside, the engine mounted in front of the vehicle will offer some protection from main guns on tanks by absorbing spalling, saving crew members and preventing ammo detonations. Getting your gunner shot out is common, however, the breech of the autocannon is very small and therefore does not generally get knocked out. Losing too many crew members is common, as there are only 3 in the tank.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=786|rbMinHp=448}}

The {{PAGENAME}} has a maximum speed forward of 66 km/h or 49 km/h in battlefield conditions as well as -12 km/h in reverse. The transmission features 6 forward gears, 2 reverse as well as neutral steering. The vehicle is quite nimble and really only struggles to neutral steer in thick mud. Its lightweight allows it to traverse steep inclines with ease. It should be noted that the vehicles TOW missile launcher will automatically retract when the vehicle reaches speeds in excess of 10km/h.

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

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
=== Main armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}

{{main|M242 (25 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[M242 (25 mm)|25 mm M242]] || 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" | 1,500 (300) || rowspan="2" | 201 || rowspan="2" | -9°/+59° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 57.1 || 79.1 || 96.0 || 106.2 || 112.9 || rowspan="2" | 0.26 || rowspan="2" | 0.23 || rowspan="2" | 0.21 || rowspan="2" | 0.20
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 35.7 || 42.0 || 51.0 || 56.4 || 60.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}
* '''M792:''' {{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}
* '''M791:''' {{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}

{{:M242 (25 mm)/Ammunition|APDS, HEI-T*}}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}. Racks outlined in red are 25 mm clips.]]

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''5''' || 4 ''(+1)'' || 3 ''(+2)'' || 2 ''(+3)'' || 1 ''(+4)'' || No
|-
|}

=== Additional armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}

{{main|BGM-71A TOW}}

The M3 Bradley comes equipped with a BGM-71B TOW ATGM launcher. The launcher contains two TOW missiles, which can be fired one after another in quick succession. Then, they are reloaded. Before you can fire, though, you have to be either stopped or moving at very low speeds, around 5 km/h. At higher speeds, the launcher folds up against the turret. When you stop, it takes time for the launcher to unfold before you can fire. This is where cruise control can be important. The first cruise control setting for forward and reverse speed is the "battle" setting. This controls the speed of the vehicle to where it is slow enough that you can fire the TOW missiles on the move. As before stated, this speed is very low, only about 5 km/h, so you should probably not drive in this mode of cruise control for the whole battle.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[BGM-71A TOW]] missile
|-
! Capacity (Belt) !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
|-
| 12 (2) || -19°/+29° || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:BGM-71A TOW/Ammunition|TOW}}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}. Racks outlined in green are ATGMs.]]

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''12''' || 10 ''(+2)'' || 8 ''(+4)'' || 6 ''(+6)'' || 4 ''(+8)'' || 2 ''(+10)'' || Yes
|-
|}

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

{{main|M240 (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M240 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M240]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 4,400 (200) || 941 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

One way the Bradley can be played is as an ambush vehicle. Find a good location where you have sufficient protective cover to secure your position, but where you can see at least one lane of attack that the enemy is likely to use. Since you will be sitting still, your TOW launcher will be deployed, and you can fire TOW missiles whenever you need to. The best way to use the TOW missiles is to hit the enemy in the side. Two TOW missiles to the side should almost always kill a tank if well aimed.

Another way to use the Bradley is to get hull down, at long range and use the TOW launcher to deadly effect. Since you do not have to calculate for drop for ATGMs, you should be able to reliably hit your target and do major damage. Because you are firing at such long-range, it is likely the enemy will not spot you in time to shoot at you, or they will miss at least their first shot.

The Bradley can also be used effectively in urban combat. If you pick a side street to set up, when the enemy goes past, hopefully without seeing you, you will be able to hit them in the side with the TOW launcher.

In arcade mode, the Bradley can be used very effectively as an anti-aircraft vehicle. Since in arcade you get a lead indicator, you should be able to accurately hit planes and helicopters. When using the HEI-T* ammunition one to two hits is usually fatal for an aircraft. TOW missiles can be used to great effect against helicopters as well, but it is probably smarter to save the ATGMs for ground targets. Also, it can be hard to hit a moving helicopter with an ATGM for someone who's inexperienced with ATGMs.

One last note: the TOW missiles should be your primary weapon, not your autocannon. Firing the autocannon will likely give away your position instantly, so unless you have already been seen, or if you know you can kill the target quickly, do not use the autocannon. The autocannon can not effectively destroy tanks but is mostly just effective against SPAA's and light tanks. Those targets can also kill you very easily though, so it is almost always better to use the TOW missiles, in order to destroy the enemy tank quickly and efficiently. On the other hand, if an enemy tank is at close range, and has spotted you, you can often use the autocannon to damage or destroy their gun barrel with multiple, well-aimed, shots, to buy yourself more time.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Excels at urban combat, as the gun can be effective when engaging MBTs, except for the Russian MBTs
* Outclasses stock 35 mm autocannon tanks which use API or APHE as long as long-range (about 1.1 km) and moderate front armour angle is kept, can even sustain low calibre APDS and HVAP hits from spaded light tanks if it has the high ground
* Can fire missiles at "combat" cruise control, albeit only at about 5 km/h (can be considered as a downgrade after [[M551]], but still usable when compared to its peers)
* 25mm autocannon can easily tear through light vehicles and is useful for engaging helicopters
* TOW missiles capable of penetrating many tanks from the front with ease
* Has a fast turret traverse and two-plane stabilizer, allowing for quick reaction times and accurate fire on the move
* Slow ATGM allows for easier aiming onto target
* Has access to first generation gunner thermals
* Can fire two missiles in a row before reloading

'''Cons:'''

* Additional side armour plates and turret frontal slope protect against 12.7 machine guns, but will always set off APHE, so caution is required
* Low fire rate on the autocannon; faster than the British 30mm RARDEN but slower than the Russian 30mm 2A42 and most SPAA autocannons
* Survivability is poor as with other IFVs; its autocannon belt is easy to hit and the vehicle is prone to overpressure
* Relatively slow, especially in reverse
* Large size makes it easy to spot
* Engine, transmission, and driver at front of the vehicle are very prone to damage
* Only has access to basic TOW missiles; struggles against later tanks with composite and explosive reactive armor
* Cannot fire missiles on the move and must raise the launcher before firing
* Low thermal sight resolution in comparison to the Warrior
* Loud and noticeable engine sound
* Default and M792 belts perform poorly against heavier targets
* Prone to overpressure; explosive rounds with enough filler hitting the turret will usually knock it out
* Does not have access to a laser rangefinder

== History ==

Development of the Bradley began in the late 1950s when the U.S. Army began seeking a replacement for the ageing M113 APC. However, despite beginning development relatively early, the successor to the M113 wouldn't enter service with the Army in the following two decades.

The reason behind this was the constantly changing specifications, requirements and doctrines around which the new vehicle would be designed. The constantly changing requirements, on the other hand, were driven by various technical and political problems arising during development.

Eventually, in 1979, the final design was presented to the Army and production was approved shortly afterwards in 1980. The Bradley, named after WW2 Army General Omar Bradley, was split into two versions, both closely resembling each other, but featuring minor differences and intended for different roles.

While the M2 Bradley was intended as an IFV, capable of transporting and supporting infantry units in combat, the M3 Bradley CFV (Cavalry Fighting Vehicle) is intended to perform scouting and reconnaissance work, ditching its infantry-carrying ability in favour of improved communications systems and increased ammunition capacity.

The Bradley entered service with the U.S. Army in 1981 and saw extensive combat use during the Gulf War as well as subsequent conflicts. Despite several (unsuccessful) efforts being made to replace the Bradley with a newer design, the vehicle still remains in active service with U.S. armed forces today, with over 6,500 units produced.

''- From [[wt:en/news/5919-development-m3-bradley-the-modern-workhorse-en|Devblog]]''

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m3_bradley Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="200">
Image:M3 Bradley Explosion (1).jpg|M3 Bradley hit by enemy fire
Image:M3 Bradley Explosion (2).jpg|M3 Bradley hit by enemy fire
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|EqBcQom4ilU|'''M3(A3) Bradley Ultimate Review''' - ''Bob Dickinson''|2h5kFyznXKU|'''Best IFVs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:24 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|p6_wtLInMRc|'''{{PAGENAME}} - I Expected More''' - ''Napalmratte''|wpm0DcBWhIA|'''The Shooting Range #126''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 05:52 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}

== See also ==


;Similar IFVs of other nations

* [[Begleitpanzer 57]]
* [[BMP-2]]
* [[Warrior]]
* [[Type 89]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/5919-development-m3-bradley-the-modern-workhorse-en|[Devblog] M3 Bradley: The Modern Workhorse]]

{{TankManufacturer FMC}}
{{USA light tanks}}

[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

Crusader AA Mk I

2024-05-10T11:55:32Z

U78375386: spelling and grammar

{{About
| about = British SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other variants
| link = Crusader (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=uk_crusader_aa_mk_1
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''Crusader III Anti-Aircraft Mark I''' is the first anti-air modification of the [[Crusader III]], which is the third variant of the [[Crusader (Family)|A15 Crusader cruiser tank family]]. The original 57 mm Ordnance QF 6-pounder was replaced with a 40 mm Bofors anti-aircraft gun in an open-topped turret with an autoloader and automated turret. The crew consisted of four people: the commander, the gunner, the loader, and the driver. Beginning with the Normandy landing, the Crusader III Anti-Aircraft Mark I was issued to artillery light anti-aircraft regiments, but they were withdrawn from service soon after D-Day due to Allied air superiority and a lack of Luftwaffe targets, necessitating much fewer anti-aircraft platforms.

Introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]], the Crusader III Anti-Aircraft Mark I is an interesting anti-aircraft vehicle that is also capable of carrying out anti-tank roles. Despite its anti-aircraft designation, the Crusader III Anti-Aircraft Mark I struggled in this duty. The 40 mm Bofors anti-aircraft gun fires slowly with low-velocity ammunition, making it difficult to target fast-moving enemy aircraft. Nonetheless, a single hit will frequently cripple any adversary aircraft. As a result, it is critical to hide and wait for an ideal moment before opening fire on an enemy aircraft. It can also act as an anti-tank weapon. This vehicle's armour-piercing ammunition can penetrate the frontal armour of light and medium tanks, as well as the side or rear armour of some heavy tanks. Due to the low post-penetration damage, you will need to target more than one section of an enemy tank to successfully destroy it.

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 20 mm (33°) ''Front plate'' 9 mm (85°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm (27°, 61°) ''Joint plate'' 20 mm (65°) ''Lower glacis'' 18 mm (1°) ''Driver's Port''|| 14 + 14 mm || 14 mm (14°), 12 mm (51°) ''Rear plate'' 14 mm (44-46°) ''Engine grille'' || 7 mm
|-
| Turret || 30 mm (36°) || 12 mm (14-15°) || 12 mm (19°) || N/A
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Suspension wheels and tracks are 15 mm thick.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=483|rbMinHp=301}}

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

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

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[Bofors L/60 (40 mm)|40 mm Bofors L/60]] || 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" | 160 (8) || rowspan="2" | 120 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+70° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 35.22 || 48.75 || 59.20 || 65.47 || 69.65 || rowspan="2" | 0.65 || rowspan="2" | 0.57 || rowspan="2" | 0.53 || rowspan="2" | 0.50
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.80 || 28.00 || 34.00 || 37.60 || 40.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|FI-T*|Fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - These work fine, a hit on an aircraft means certain death for it and still is able to hurt ground vehicles, especially if it is side into the side of a enemy tank. These would be a good ammunition belt to deal with a variety of situations the Crusader can find itself in.
* '''Mk.II:''' {{Annotation|FI-T*|Fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - These mean certain death for aircraft, what should be used for AA work.
* '''M81A1:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}} - These are the worst belts against airplanes. however, they are able to hurt ground vehicles especially if it is side into the side of a enemy tank. If you plan on killing tanks load this and flank, since side shots are almost a necessity.

{{:Bofors L/60 (40 mm)/Ammunition|Mk.II, M81A1}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! Ammo type
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''20''' '''160''' || ''Clips'' ''Rounds'' || 15 ''(+5)'' 120 ''(+40)'' || 10 ''(+10)'' 80 ''(+80)'' || 5 ''(+15)'' 40 ''(+120)'' || 1 ''(+19)'' 8 ''(+152)'' || 0 ''(+20)'' 0 ''(+160)'' || Yes
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* Ammunition is organised in clips of 8 rounds.
* The visual discrepancy concerns racks and clips: racks 1 to 4 are modeled as 9 clips containing 4 rounds while rack 5 is a clip of 4 rounds. In-game, racks 1 to 4 contain 5 clips of 8 rounds and rack 5 contains a clip of 8 rounds.
* Racks disappear after you've fired all shells in the rack.

== Usage in battles ==


Despite being an SPAA vehicle, the Crusader struggles in an AA role. The gun is slow firing and fires at quite a low velocity, meaning that you will struggle to target fast moving enemy aircraft. Granted, a single hit will often spell doom for an enemy aircraft. Therefore, it is important to hide and wait for an opportune moment to open fire on an enemy aircraft. A low flying aircraft within 1km, flying at low speed, should be easier to hit. However, higher ranked and faster planes will can be a much harder target to his with the slow turret traverse for tracking and the slow fire rate of the gun.

The Crusader AA Mk I can play in a style similar to gun-centric IFVs at higher BRs. The gun is not dissimilar in performance to the gun on the [[Churchill I]], and thus is perfectly serviceable for performing duties in the anti-tank role. With the AP belts equipped and with the use of high mobility, it is relatively easy to disable anything short of a heavy tank from the front (with the exception of a few tanks that're encountered in uptiers). You are quite dangerous to Panzers especially, as side-on it is possible to destroy them two or three well-placed shots. Avoid playing the vehicle in this role in uptiers against USSR however, as the gun in not powerful enough to penetrate or even disable KV-1s and T-34s. Be especially aware of the French heavy tanks, too, as their armour is deceptively thick. The [[2C]] and [[2C bis]] can be engaged with caution, as the 40mm cannon can dispatch them quickly at extremely close-range. On the contrary, do not attempt to engage either B1s, as their in practice is nigh-impossible to penetrate.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good mobility and top speed of the Crusader chassis
* 40 mm Bofors autocannon can heavily damage aircraft if the Mk.II shell contacts
* Tall turret offers good protection to the gunnery crew from machine guns up to 20 mm cannons
* AP shells have enough power to penetrate some tank armour

'''Cons:'''

* Very little armour, especially the AA turret
* Cannon slot in front turret armour allows machine gun bullets to go through and injure/kill the crew
* Against attacker and bombers, 40 mm cannon is not a one-hit kill and repeated hits are necessary
* Exposed top leave crew vulnerable
* Slow rate of fire and poor muzzle velocity
* Limited ammo, which could be a problem since the gun requires leading of shots

== History ==


===Development===
In 1938, the General Staff of the British Army requested for a cruiser tank that was lighter and more affordable than the heavier A16 cruiser design developed by Nuffield Mechanizations & Aero. One of these designs was the designation ''Tank, Cruiser Mk.V'' based off the [[A13 Mk I|A13 cruiser tanks]], named the "Covenanter", and Nuffield was invited to become part of its development team, but they refused due to interest in developing their own cruiser tank. Their tank was designated the '''Tank, Cruiser Mk.VI Crusader''' and fell under the General Staff specification of A15. The Crusader was a parallel design to the Covenanter, but was ready six weeks earlier than the Covenanter despite starting at a later time. The Crusader was adopted into service with the British Army in 1941 and the 5,300 units were manufactured between 1940 to 1943.

===Design===
The Crusader features a new design that differs from its cruiser tank predecessors. The Christie suspension system on the Crusader had five road wheels for it instead of the usual four, which improves weight distribution of the increased 20 ton weight of the Crusader compared to the 14 tons of the A13 cruisers. The engine, steering system, and cooling system on the Crusader was different as well, but the Covenanter and Crusader use the same main turret. The polygonal shape of the turret gives the crew inside more room for the turret ring diameter.

The Crusader Mk I and [[Crusader Mk II|Mk II]] were equipped with the 2-pounder, which was aimed by the gunner inside with a padded shaft that allows them to elevate the gun by simply adjusting his own height. Later in the war where an up-gun of the tank armament was necessary and newer tanks such as the [[Cromwell V|Cromwell]] was delayed, the Crusader was upgraded into the [[Crusader Mk III]] variant with a 6-pounder instead, which restricted turret space, requiring the turret crew to be reduced from three to two. These saw first action the Second Battle of El Alamein in October 1942.

===Combat usage===
The Crusader first saw action at North Africa, right after the British had been pushed back to the Egyptian border by Axis forces. The Crusaders were part of the huge shipment in the Malta Convoys to reequip the British forces there. Enough Crusaders arrive that the entire 6th Royal Tank Regiment was refitted with them, which joined up with the 2nd Royal Tank Regiment to form the 7th Armoured Brigade "Desert Rats". The brigade's first action was in Operation Battleaxe, though it was delayed due to adapting the tanks for the desert environment. The operation, which called for the relieve of the siege of Tobruk in June, was initiated in June to which 11 Crusader tanks were lost to anti-tank guns, plus many more to mechanical faults. While more Crusader tanks came in to reinforce the cruiser tank forces, there were never enough to supply the continuously expanding armoured units as 7th Brigade was combine with the 7th Hussars, the 2nd Armoured Brigade was added to the 7th Armoured Division, and the 8th Hussars was combined with the 4th Armoured Brigade. Overall, the Crusaders proved effective in the North African Campaign, the Crusader was faster than any tanks on the opposing side and the 2-pounder was lethal to the [[Panzer III]], but the tank suffered from its thin armour, mechanical problems in the desert, and the growing deficiency of the 2-pounder, which didn't have enough range to destroy farther tanks. The Crusader design also caused the ammo racks on the tank to easily ignite due to unprotected racks and shot traps on the turret design. Anti-tank guns continue to be the main reason the Crusader units suffer losses, rather than to enemy tanks.

By the end of 1941, only the 2nd Armoured Brigade retained the Crusaders, the rest of the other tank units were being refitted with better tanks, such as the [[Grant I|M3 Grant]] medium tank from the American Lend-Lease. Crusader units were also refitted with the more powerful Crusader Mk III with the 6-pounder, which improved the Crusader's ability to destroy the gradually stronger German tanks. After General Bernard Montgomery took command of the British Army in 1942, more British tank units were reequipped with the Grant and [[M4|M4 Sherman]] tanks while the Crusaders were relegated from the front-lines to "light squadrons" meant to flank the enemy and attacked at its exposed sides. When the British 1st Army engaged the Axis at Tunisia, some tank regiments still use Crusaders mixed in with [[Valentine Mk I|Valentine tanks]]. These units in the 26th Armoured Brigade, code named "Blade Force", worked alongside the 78th Infantry Division as an independent armoured column. During Tunisia, the 1st Army was already converting the tank regiments into Shermans, but the 8th Army continued to use the Crusaders for much longer, which would see use at the Battle of Wadi Akarit and Mareth Line.

After the North African Campaign, the Crusaders no longer saw any use in the front-lines and were used in other roles such as gun tractors with 17-pounders or anti-aircraft mounts such as the '''[[Crusader AA Mk I]]''' and ''[[Crusader AA Mk II|Mk II]]'' Some Crusader tanks equipped the tank regiments that stayed back at the British Homelands such as the 11th Armoured Division.

The AA Tank Mk 1 was issued to artillery light anti-aircraft regiments starting with the landing in Normandy, but the Mark I's were withdrawn from service soon after D-Day due to the Allied air supremacy and lack of Luftwaffe targets meaning significantly fewer anti-aircraft weapons ended up being required.

===Survivors===
About 21 Crusaders still exist intact in various parts of the world. The most notable places with the Crusaders are South Africa with 8 known survivors, a running [[Crusader Mk III]] at Bovington Tank Museum at England, and an anti-aircraft version at Musée des Blindés in France.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=uk_crusader_aa_mk_1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="150">
File:Crusader AA Mk I in Normandy.jpg|Crusader AA Mk I in [[Normandy (Ground Forces)|Normandy map]]
</gallery>

== See also ==


* [[Ostwind]]
* [[ZSU-37]]
* [[AMX-13 DCA 40]]
* [[Lvkv 42]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/devblog/current/855/|[Devblog] Crusader AA Mk.I and Crusader AA Mk.II]]
* [https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/gb/Cruiser-MkVI_Crusader.php <nowiki>[Tanks-Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Cruiser Mk.VI Crusader] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20210511224314/https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/gb/Cruiser-MkVI_Crusader.php Web Archive])

{{TankManufacturer Nuffield}}
{{Britain anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Crusader AA Mk I

2024-05-09T12:39:26Z

U78375386:

{{About
| about = British SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other variants
| link = Crusader (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=uk_crusader_aa_mk_1
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''Crusader III Anti-Aircraft Mark I''' is the first anti-air modification of the [[Crusader III]], which is the third variant of the [[Crusader (Family)|A15 Crusader cruiser tank family]]. The original 57 mm Ordnance QF 6-pounder was replaced with a 40 mm Bofors anti-aircraft gun in an open-topped turret with an autoloader and automated turret. The crew consisted of four people: the commander, the gunner, the loader, and the driver. Beginning with the Normandy landing, the Crusader III Anti-Aircraft Mark I was issued to artillery light anti-aircraft regiments, but they were withdrawn from service soon after D-Day due to Allied air superiority and a lack of Luftwaffe targets, necessitating much fewer anti-aircraft platforms.

Introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]], the Crusader III Anti-Aircraft Mark I is an interesting anti-aircraft vehicle that is also capable of carrying out anti-tank roles. Despite its anti-aircraft designation, the Crusader III Anti-Aircraft Mark I struggled in this duty. The 40 mm Bofors anti-aircraft gun fires slowly with low-velocity ammunition, making it difficult to target fast-moving enemy aircraft. Nonetheless, a single hit will frequently cripple any adversary aircraft. As a result, it is critical to hide and wait for an ideal moment before opening fire on an enemy aircraft. It can also act as an anti-tank weapon. This vehicle's armour-piercing ammunition can penetrate the frontal armour of light and medium tanks, as well as the side or rear armour of some heavy tanks. Due to the low post-penetration damage, you will need to target more than one section of an enemy tank to successfully destroy it.

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 20 mm (33°) ''Front plate'' 9 mm (85°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm (27°, 61°) ''Joint plate'' 20 mm (65°) ''Lower glacis'' 18 mm (1°) ''Driver's Port''|| 14 + 14 mm || 14 mm (14°), 12 mm (51°) ''Rear plate'' 14 mm (44-46°) ''Engine grille'' || 7 mm
|-
| Turret || 30 mm (36°) || 12 mm (14-15°) || 12 mm (19°) || N/A
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Suspension wheels and tracks are 15 mm thick.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=483|rbMinHp=301}}

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

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

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[Bofors L/60 (40 mm)|40 mm Bofors L/60]] || 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" | 160 (8) || rowspan="2" | 120 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+70° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 35.22 || 48.75 || 59.20 || 65.47 || 69.65 || rowspan="2" | 0.65 || rowspan="2" | 0.57 || rowspan="2" | 0.53 || rowspan="2" | 0.50
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.80 || 28.00 || 34.00 || 37.60 || 40.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|FI-T*|Fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - These work fine, a hit on an aircraft means certain death for it and still is able to hurt ground vehicles, especially if it is side into the side of a enemy tank. These would be a good ammunition belt to deal with a variety of situations the Crusader can find itself in.
* '''Mk.II:''' {{Annotation|FI-T*|Fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - These mean certain death for aircraft, what should be used for AA work.
* '''M81A1:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}} - These are the worst belts against airplanes. however, they are able to hurt ground vehicles especially if it is side into the side of a enemy tank. If you plan on killing tanks load this and flank, since side shots are almost a necessity.

{{:Bofors L/60 (40 mm)/Ammunition|Mk.II, M81A1}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! Ammo type
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''20''' '''160''' || ''Clips'' ''Rounds'' || 15 ''(+5)'' 120 ''(+40)'' || 10 ''(+10)'' 80 ''(+80)'' || 5 ''(+15)'' 40 ''(+120)'' || 1 ''(+19)'' 8 ''(+152)'' || 0 ''(+20)'' 0 ''(+160)'' || Yes
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* Ammunition is organised in clips of 8 rounds.
* The visual discrepancy concerns racks and clips: racks 1 to 4 are modeled as 9 clips containing 4 rounds while rack 5 is a clip of 4 rounds. In-game, racks 1 to 4 contain 5 clips of 8 rounds and rack 5 contains a clip of 8 rounds.
* Racks disappear after you've fired all shells in the rack.

== Usage in battles ==


Despite being an SPAA vehicle, the Crusader struggles in an AA role. The gun is slow firing and fires at quite a low velocity, meaning that you will struggle to target fast moving enemy aircraft. Granted, a single hit will often spell doom for an enemy aircraft. Therefore, it is important to hide and wait for an opportune moment to open fire on an enemy aircraft. A low flying aircraft within 1km, flying at low speed, should be easier to hit. However, higher ranked and faster planes will can be a much harder target to his with the slow turret traverse for tracking and the slow fire rate of the gun.

The Crusader AA Mk I can play in a style similar to gun-centric IFVs at higher BRs. The gun is not dissimilar in performance to the gun on the [[Churchill I]], and thus is perfectly serviceable for performing duties in the anti-tank role. With the AP belts equipped and with the use of high mobility, it is relatively easy to disable anything short of a heavy tank from the front (with the exception of a tanks that're encountered in uptiers). You are especially dangerous to Panzers especially, as side-on it is possible to destroy them two or three well-placed shots. Avoid playing the vehicle in this role in uptiers against USSR however, as the gun in not powerful enough to penetrate or even disable KV-1s and T-34s. Be especially aware of the French heavy tanks, too, as their armour is deceptively thick. The [[2C]] and [[2C bis]] can be engaged with caution, as the 40mm cannon can dispatch them quickly at extremely close-range. On the contrary, do not attempt to engage either B1s, as their in practice is nigh-impossible to penetrate.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good mobility and top speed of the Crusader chassis
* 40 mm Bofors autocannon can heavily damage aircraft if the Mk.II shell contacts
* Tall turret offers good protection to the gunnery crew from machine guns up to 20 mm cannons
* AP shells have enough power to penetrate some tank armour

'''Cons:'''

* Very little armour, especially the AA turret
* Cannon slot in front turret armour allows machine gun bullets to go through and injure/kill the crew
* Against attacker and bombers, 40 mm cannon is not a one-hit kill and repeated hits are necessary
* Exposed top leave crew vulnerable
* Slow rate of fire and poor muzzle velocity
* Limited ammo, which could be a problem since the gun requires leading of shots

== History ==


===Development===
In 1938, the General Staff of the British Army requested for a cruiser tank that was lighter and more affordable than the heavier A16 cruiser design developed by Nuffield Mechanizations & Aero. One of these designs was the designation ''Tank, Cruiser Mk.V'' based off the [[A13 Mk I|A13 cruiser tanks]], named the "Covenanter", and Nuffield was invited to become part of its development team, but they refused due to interest in developing their own cruiser tank. Their tank was designated the '''Tank, Cruiser Mk.VI Crusader''' and fell under the General Staff specification of A15. The Crusader was a parallel design to the Covenanter, but was ready six weeks earlier than the Covenanter despite starting at a later time. The Crusader was adopted into service with the British Army in 1941 and the 5,300 units were manufactured between 1940 to 1943.

===Design===
The Crusader features a new design that differs from its cruiser tank predecessors. The Christie suspension system on the Crusader had five road wheels for it instead of the usual four, which improves weight distribution of the increased 20 ton weight of the Crusader compared to the 14 tons of the A13 cruisers. The engine, steering system, and cooling system on the Crusader was different as well, but the Covenanter and Crusader use the same main turret. The polygonal shape of the turret gives the crew inside more room for the turret ring diameter.

The Crusader Mk I and [[Crusader Mk II|Mk II]] were equipped with the 2-pounder, which was aimed by the gunner inside with a padded shaft that allows them to elevate the gun by simply adjusting his own height. Later in the war where an up-gun of the tank armament was necessary and newer tanks such as the [[Cromwell V|Cromwell]] was delayed, the Crusader was upgraded into the [[Crusader Mk III]] variant with a 6-pounder instead, which restricted turret space, requiring the turret crew to be reduced from three to two. These saw first action the Second Battle of El Alamein in October 1942.

===Combat usage===
The Crusader first saw action at North Africa, right after the British had been pushed back to the Egyptian border by Axis forces. The Crusaders were part of the huge shipment in the Malta Convoys to reequip the British forces there. Enough Crusaders arrive that the entire 6th Royal Tank Regiment was refitted with them, which joined up with the 2nd Royal Tank Regiment to form the 7th Armoured Brigade "Desert Rats". The brigade's first action was in Operation Battleaxe, though it was delayed due to adapting the tanks for the desert environment. The operation, which called for the relieve of the siege of Tobruk in June, was initiated in June to which 11 Crusader tanks were lost to anti-tank guns, plus many more to mechanical faults. While more Crusader tanks came in to reinforce the cruiser tank forces, there were never enough to supply the continuously expanding armoured units as 7th Brigade was combine with the 7th Hussars, the 2nd Armoured Brigade was added to the 7th Armoured Division, and the 8th Hussars was combined with the 4th Armoured Brigade. Overall, the Crusaders proved effective in the North African Campaign, the Crusader was faster than any tanks on the opposing side and the 2-pounder was lethal to the [[Panzer III]], but the tank suffered from its thin armour, mechanical problems in the desert, and the growing deficiency of the 2-pounder, which didn't have enough range to destroy farther tanks. The Crusader design also caused the ammo racks on the tank to easily ignite due to unprotected racks and shot traps on the turret design. Anti-tank guns continue to be the main reason the Crusader units suffer losses, rather than to enemy tanks.

By the end of 1941, only the 2nd Armoured Brigade retained the Crusaders, the rest of the other tank units were being refitted with better tanks, such as the [[Grant I|M3 Grant]] medium tank from the American Lend-Lease. Crusader units were also refitted with the more powerful Crusader Mk III with the 6-pounder, which improved the Crusader's ability to destroy the gradually stronger German tanks. After General Bernard Montgomery took command of the British Army in 1942, more British tank units were reequipped with the Grant and [[M4|M4 Sherman]] tanks while the Crusaders were relegated from the front-lines to "light squadrons" meant to flank the enemy and attacked at its exposed sides. When the British 1st Army engaged the Axis at Tunisia, some tank regiments still use Crusaders mixed in with [[Valentine Mk I|Valentine tanks]]. These units in the 26th Armoured Brigade, code named "Blade Force", worked alongside the 78th Infantry Division as an independent armoured column. During Tunisia, the 1st Army was already converting the tank regiments into Shermans, but the 8th Army continued to use the Crusaders for much longer, which would see use at the Battle of Wadi Akarit and Mareth Line.

After the North African Campaign, the Crusaders no longer saw any use in the front-lines and were used in other roles such as gun tractors with 17-pounders or anti-aircraft mounts such as the '''[[Crusader AA Mk I]]''' and ''[[Crusader AA Mk II|Mk II]]'' Some Crusader tanks equipped the tank regiments that stayed back at the British Homelands such as the 11th Armoured Division.

The AA Tank Mk 1 was issued to artillery light anti-aircraft regiments starting with the landing in Normandy, but the Mark I's were withdrawn from service soon after D-Day due to the Allied air supremacy and lack of Luftwaffe targets meaning significantly fewer anti-aircraft weapons ended up being required.

===Survivors===
About 21 Crusaders still exist intact in various parts of the world. The most notable places with the Crusaders are South Africa with 8 known survivors, a running [[Crusader Mk III]] at Bovington Tank Museum at England, and an anti-aircraft version at Musée des Blindés in France.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=uk_crusader_aa_mk_1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="150">
File:Crusader AA Mk I in Normandy.jpg|Crusader AA Mk I in [[Normandy (Ground Forces)|Normandy map]]
</gallery>

== See also ==


* [[Ostwind]]
* [[ZSU-37]]
* [[AMX-13 DCA 40]]
* [[Lvkv 42]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/devblog/current/855/|[Devblog] Crusader AA Mk.I and Crusader AA Mk.II]]
* [https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/gb/Cruiser-MkVI_Crusader.php <nowiki>[Tanks-Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Cruiser Mk.VI Crusader] ([https://web.archive.org/web/20210511224314/https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/gb/Cruiser-MkVI_Crusader.php Web Archive])

{{TankManufacturer Nuffield}}
{{Britain anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Talk:M60A2

2024-04-17T10:35:20Z

U78375386: Page is outdated and needs reformatting. Info from the Usage in Battles section needs moving into the main article, and the prementioned section should be a summary of how to play.

The entire section of armour needs to be rewritten as it is not accurate to the new decompressed tier. As the tank no longer commonly fights King Tigers, it faces a lot more threat from tanks that can do damage to it quite easily with the exception of the russian 100mm mini-nuke slingers.

M60A2

2024-04-17T10:29:41Z

U78375386: mentioning the dip between firing the missile and the motor stage and how to compensate.

{{About
| about = American medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = M60 (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m60a2
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

In the Cold War arms race for tank armaments, the US picked up an interest in developing an anti-tank guided missile as the main armament for tanks. As the M60 was coming into service, development started to create an ATGM armament for the tank with the goal of putting it into service by 1965. This developed into a 152 mm gun/launcher system that could fire conventional rounds or a Shillelagh missile system. Enthusiastic with the new weapon system, the US Army aims to have the weapon equip both their newest [[M551|airborne reconnaissance and assault vehicle]] and their [[MBT-70|main battle tanks]]. As a way to upgrade the existing M60 fleet with the new weapon system, the M60A1 would be converted to equip the weapon. A modified turret was provided to equip the gun/launcher system, however the US Army's dream of a simple transition into the weapon system was trashed when complications with the system arose, especially in regards to the sensitive ammunition. While a limited production run was allowed with the tank designated as the '''M60A2''', but continued trouble with the tank and poor troop reception led to the M60A2's phasing out with only 526 units produced.

Introduced in [[Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica"]], the ''{{Specs|name}}''' was a rather unique vehicle with its gun/launcher system. Like on the [[M551|M551 Sheridan]], the weapon allows greater flexibility with blasting away lighter-armored enemies with a 152 mm high-explosive shell to trigger an overpressure, or a HEAT round to penetrate steel armour, or the Shillelagh missile to hit targets a distance away for a lethal blow. However, unlike on the M551, the taller profile and platform of the M60A2 makes the weapon more difficult to employ as the M60A2 lacks the mobility and small size of the M551. Though the M60A2 is certainly more proof against enemy tank shells at its rank than the M551, it shouldn't be relied upon to stand up against a full-front attack from an enemy due to prominent weak points like the turret cupola. In short, the M60A2 can be a difficult weapon to employ, but can still present some opportunities if played to the weapon's strength.

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

The M60A2 shares the hull with the other M60 variants. That means that the front hull armour is sufficient to stop 100 mm/105 mm kinetic ammunition of the same tier, while it does not protect you against hollow charge shells with a calibre of 90 mm and above. It also has the same 114 mm thick turret base, which is a weak point. The centre part of the turret is a cast 220 mm plate in front of the cannon breech, which while not thick enough to protect you against any shells of even outdated guns, often eats shots (at cost of the cannon breech). The outer parts of the turret are significantly lower than the breech and rounded like in most post war soviet tanks. If not hit head-on, these sides can bounce most of the incoming shots. On top of the turret is a massive cupola for the commander, which is a big weak spot and often gets your commander knocked out, even the whole tank if your opponent is firing shells with explosive filler. The side armour on the hull is thick enough to withstand cannon fire of up to 25 mm (excluding APDS and the part around the gearbox), while cannons with a calibre of up to 40 mm will have significant problems and the tank may withstand a large number of shells. It will however not stop shells fired out of cannons of equal tier. The back of the hull can even be penetrated by HMGs. The turret side is around the cannon is 120-140 mm thick and will resist most shots if angled. The lower part however will most likely get penetrated often due to the reduced thickness the further towards the turret back you get. The hull is completely filled with ammunition, ammo is placed to the left, right and behind the driver (which is sitting in the middle of the front hull). Taking a reduced amount of shells is therefore advisable. The crew is well spaced, a solid shot in the front turret will likely only knock out a single crew member, since all crew members sit next to each other and not behind each other like in most other tanks, but this obviously increases the chance to get destroyed due to a side-shot. Overall the armour will not completely protect you, but you have good chances to eat a bigger amount of shells than most other tanks.

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


The mobility of the vehicle is average for its tier. With a top speed of 48 km/h (RB) and -11 km/h in reverse, it is not as fast as other tanks like the Leopard 1, but fast enough to get where you want quickly. The manoeuvrability is average to bad: you lose a lot of speed while turning. You can, however, turn on the spot thanks to neutral steering.

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,162|rbMinHp=663}}

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

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

{{main|M162 (152 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M162 (152 mm)|152 mm M162]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 46 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 15.60 || rowspan="2" | 13.80 || rowspan="2" | 12.72 || rowspan="2" | 12.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:M162 (152 mm)/Ammunition|M409A1, M657A2, MGM-51B Shillelagh}}When firing from hull-down positions with the Shillelagh, the user must be extremely careful of how close they are from the barrier. If the tank is too close, the missile will dip after firing and hit the ground. The user should practice pointing up before firing and quickly acquiring the target again to avoid this. It is especially important for the M60A2, as the small amount of missiles carried (only seven rounds) can easily be wasted.

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''46''' || 39 ''(+7)'' || 32 ''(+14)'' || 27 ''(+19)'' || 25 ''(+21)'' || 12 ''(+34)'' || 1 ''(+45)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* Empty turret: 25 ''(+21)'' shells.

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

{{main|M85 (12.7 mm)|M73 (7.62 mm)}}

The M60A2 is equipped with a coaxial 7.62 mm LMG and a 12.7 mm HMG on top of the turret. Like on most American vehicles, this allows you to engage lightly armoured vehicles and slow aeroplanes at close to medium ranges.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M85 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M85]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 1,260 (180) || 626 || -15°/+60° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M73 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M73]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 5,500 (250) || 500 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The M60A2 has suffered since the replacement of "Hull Break" with the "Overpressure" mechanic. The main drawback is its main armament, most notably the stock HEAT round. The HEAT round can penetrate the vast majority of targets, however the extremely poor post-penetration damage will not consistently destroy the target in one shot. The high-explosive fairs better due to being able to overpressure most targets (most notably Leopards, or anything resembling that design philosophy) with a single shot to the turret side, turret roof or hull. Before the Shillelagh missile is unlocked, it is recommended to use the high-explosive round as the primary ammunition, while keeping a few HEAT rounds on-hand for the more difficult-to-crack nuts such as the late-era Soviet/Russian heavies and the odd [[Maus]] heavy tank. One downside to consider is the long reload, which will make follow-up shots difficult if the enemy is still operational after the first shot.

Hitting the enemies can be made simpler with further researched modules, such as the laser rangefinder that allows automatic range adjustments for the distant targets. This can help with using the parabolic arc of the HEAT and HE rounds to hit enemies from behind cover with just the cupola visible, though this may not work consistently. The low velocity of the HEAT and HE rounds make hitting long-distance targets difficult, even with the range finder, but this can be alleviated by unlocking of the Shillelagh missile. Though the missile will increase the reload time by almost 20 seconds, the SACLOS missile guidance can make hitting distant and/or moving targets easier and can regularly trigger overpressure or detonate ammunition. The missile is easier to aim compared to the TOW missile also available at this BR as it is much more reactive and therefore the self-corrections the missile are much less likely to throw it off course. With some wrestling and careful adjustment it can be used to hit stationary aerial targets like helicopters.

Without any mobility upgrades, the M60A2 also struggles to keep up with most of its contemporaries. It is reasonably quick, however the extra weight makes its acceleration poor and will hinder you in reaching powerful positions. Another noticeably poor characteristic is the neutral-steer, with the vehicle struggling to turn on slopes or any form of defilade. However, despite the poor mobility, it performs quite well in close-quarters. The reverse gear is slow, but is still good enough to get the vehicle out of danger after peeking and firing a shot. The turret rotation is also quite good, especially for the size of the cannon which means that the Starship can hold its own in close-quarters.

Due to the odd shape of the turret, and the hull being inherited from the M60 platform, the Starship can be rather difficult for some opposing vehicles to destroy it. For example, from the front, common foes such as the Leopard 1 and other M60s firing kinetic rounds will struggle to effectively deal damage. However, it is not invincible. The turret neck is a large weak spot and can be penetrated by the even [[Tiger II (Family)|Tiger II]]. Not only this, but the large commanders cupola will fuse most APHE rounds and funnel them down into the turret, or (in the case of the Russian BR-412 round found on most Russian mediums at the BR) overpressure the vehicle. The hull is still penetrable by most common HEAT rounds, as is the turret, though its odd shape may make it difficult to consistently knock out all the turret crew in one shot.

Overall, the M60A2 is a hardy vehicle, but struggles when it is not supported and/or fighting heavily armoured vehicles. The M60A2 can be a rather useful asset for brawling with its one-hit potential, but the long reload and inconsistent nature of the shells it fires can make it difficult to consistently work around. It can be useful for long-arming shells or sniping with the missile but its poor mobility makes some useful positions inaccessible.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Very fast turret rotation
* Turret front is hard to predictably penetrate due to its odd design
* Has smoke launchers
* Same ammunition as the [[M551|M551 Sheridan]]
* Stabilizer allows for accurate firing on the move and fast reaction time, especially for a vehicle with the ability to launch ATGMs
* ATGMs can be fired on the move
* The armour can be very good

'''Cons:'''

* Slow off-road mobility: the Starship struggles to reach 30 km/h on a slight downhill
* Cannot fire from cover like the [[IT-1]] or [[RakJPz 2|Raketenjagdpanzers]]
* Stock HEAT has extremely poor post-pen damage and seldom triggers overpressure
* Cupola is one huge weak spot sticking out up top
* ATGM reload time is several seconds longer than normal ammunition
* Can only hold 7 ATGMs total
* ATGM has a very low starting speed making it hard to hit moving targets at closer ranges

== History ==

'''Design'''
[[File:M60A2 at AAF Museum (1).jpg|thumb|M60A2 at American Armoured Foundation Museum in Danville, Virginia.]]
The M60A2 used the Type B turret which featured an unconventional low profile design. The turret base was disc shaped and was very low profile, while the center part was much larger and consisted of a lane running front to rear that mounted the gun breech and behind that the commander's position. The gunner was seated under the disc portion of the right side of the turret, while the loader was located on the opposite side under the disc portion. The commander was located in a rotating cupola at the rear of the center part of the turret. The turret received an interior Kevlar spall liner. A basket was mounted to the rear of the turret for stowage. A bank of four M226 smoke grenades is located on each side of the turret for a total of eight smoke grenade launchers. Additionally, a xenon white light or infrared spotlight could be fitted to the left of the gun for night operations.

The M60A2's main armament consisted of a two-plane stabilized 152 mm M162 gun/launcher mounted in the center part of the turret. The M162 could fire both HE and HEAT conventional rounds as well as the MGM-51 Shillelagh ATGMs. The HE rounds were used against enemy infantry or emplacements, the HEAT rounds were used against enemy armour at close range (it had an effective range of 1.5 km), and the ATGMs were used against enemy armour at longer ranges of up to 3 km for the MGM-51B and C variants. 33 conventional rounds and 13 missiles could be carried in the tank.

Testing of the weapon system found a number of issues. Notably, there were a number of misfires and premature detonations caused by leftover propellant in the gun barrel and breech. As such, a fume extractor was fitted which was later replaced by a Closed Bore Scavenger System (CBSS) which used compressed air to push the fumes out of the gun.

Secondary armament of the M60A2 consisted of two machine guns. One was a coaxial 7.62 mm M73 machine gun and the other was a 12.7 mm M85 machine gun in the commander's cupola. These were later replaced by the 7.62 mm M240 and 12.7 mm M2HB Browning respectively. 5,560 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and 1,080 rounds of 12.7 mm ammunition were carried.

The M60A2 received the M51 Missile Guidance System (MGS), produced by Ford's Aerospace Division. The M51 MGS included an AN/WG-1 ruby laser rangefinder as well as an infrared beam system for control of the MGM-51 Shillelagh ATGMs. The MGM-51 was guided after launch by IR beam which the gunner had to keep on the target (by way of his aiming sight) the entire flight in order to hit the target. The M60A2 was one of if not the very first production tank used by the US Army to include a laser rangefinder. The laser rangefinder allowed accurate ranging of the target up to 4,000 meters to provide the gunner with a firing solution. On the other hand, the laser rangefinder was ineffective at night and was only accurate out to 600 meters at 25% moonlight.

The hull of the M60A2 was originally identical to that of the M60A1. It was powered by a 750 horsepower Continental AVDS-1790-2A engine coupled to the General Motors CD-850-5 cross-drive transmission with two forward and one reverse gear, allowing the M60A2 to reach a top speed of 48 km/h. It used the standard T97 track assembly. Many M60A2s were later upgraded to the RISE standard with an improved AVDS-1790-2C engine and T142 tracks.

'''Production and Service'''

After the M60A1E2 prototype was designated as the Tank, Combat, Full Tracked: 152-mm Gun/Launcher, M60A2 in 1970, the US Army ordered the M60A2 in 1971. Production lasted from 1973 to 1975 with the total production of the M60A2 at 540, all of which were produced at the Chrysler Tank Plant in Warren, Michigan.

The first US Army unit to receive its M60A2 tanks was the B Company, 1st Battalion, 32 Armor Battalion in June 1975.

Ultimately the M60A2 tank was a failure, mostly down to the weapon system. The MGM-51 Shillelagh proved to be an extremely expensive and problematic system due to its advanced technology. There were issues with the propellant as well as the tracking and guidance systems. Not only this, but the fact that the MGM-51 was the only anti-tank weapon at range limited the anti-tank role of the M60A2 greatly; the gunner had to keep the target in his sight during the entire flight of the ATGM from the gun barrel to the impact point. Additionally, the MGM-51 ATGM could not be fired while on the move despite the fully stabilized gun, as well as the fact that the MGM-51 was much more expensive than a conventional round.

These issues, among others, contributed to a poor opinion of the tank by the US Army. The M60A2 even gained the unofficial nickname of "Starship" due to its unconventional turret appearance and advanced technology. The M60A2 was removed completely from service by 1981. Many former M60A2s had their turret removed and replaced by the more conventional M60A3 turret and were put back into service. M60A2s were also converted to noncombat variants in 1985, including the M60A1 AVLB bridge layer and the M60 Panther MDCV mine-clearing vehicle. Many M60A2s were also converted to the M728A1 CEV (combat engineering vehicle) variant as well.

The M60A2 was never cleared for export.
[[File:M60A1E1 Prototype.jpg|thumb|M60A1E1 Prototype at AMVETS Post 93 in Armada, Michigan. Vehicle since repainted.]]

'''Variants'''

* XM66 - Designation for Type A, B, and C turret concepts.
* M60A1E1 - M60E1 hulls with Type A turret fitted with XM81 gun/launcher.
* M60A1E2 - M60A1 hull with Type B turret fitted with XM81E13 gun/launcher. The M60A1E2 was accepted for service, with modifications, as the M60A2.
* M60A1E3 - M60A1E2 experimentally fitted with 105 mm M68E1 rifled gun.
* M60A1E4 - Concept of M60 hull fitted with Type C turret with remote weapons system. Only a turret mock-up was built.
* M60A2 - Production version of the M60A1E2, fitted with M162 gun/launcher and received minor modifications such as a laser rangefinder.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m60a2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|60IVWW1_Flw|'''The Shooting Range #52''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 02:24 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|zoBPU0n65_A|'''The M60 family''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:22 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

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

* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
* ''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.''

{{TankManufacturer Chrysler Defense}}
{{USA medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

Vijayanta

2024-04-17T10:22:45Z

U78375386: The Vijayanta was not the first Indian tank added to the game. Bhishma TWMP predates it.

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

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (विजयंता; lit. Victorious) was the first MBT built in India as the licensed variant of the British [[Vickers Mk.1]]. As the export tank designed by the Vickers-Armstrong, Vickers Mk.1 were designed to be a lighter yet as powerful medium tank as the Centurion series in British service; the design of this tank was acquired by India in 1961 and development soon started in UK. The development was completed by 1964 with a prototype delivered to India and joined the Indian Army a year later under the name Vijayanta. The tank was saw in action during the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971 and Indo-Pakistan War of 1999; although planned for decommission by 2008, the introduction of Russian-built/licensed MBTs and complications on the domestic Arjun MBT however didn't fully phrase-out all Vijayanta with were still spotted as late as 2019, serving as batteries for border troops.

Introduced in [[Update "La Royale"]] as a premium British medium tank, the Vijayanta is essentially a Vickers Mk.1 with M456 105 mm HEAT-FS, other than the additional ammunition option, both tanks can be utilize with same tactics as a supporting tank while players have to pay extra caution to avoid frontline battles at all cost since the protection is rather poor for its tier.

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

A short answer to the protection of Vijayanta: it is totally identical to Vickers Mk.1. As Vickers Mk.1 was designed to be the alternative to the fleet of Centurion tanks in British and overseas services, the main design feature was retaining the same firepower as the post-Mk.10 Centurions while having better mobility thanks to its lighter weight; but lighter weight also means lesser protection. The later variants of Centurion has around 240 mm RHA on UFP - for Vijayanta, it's less than half of Centurions (barely over 100 mm RHA); at its tier where APFSDS and HEATFS are very commonplace, it can be said that chances of non-penetration or ricochet is very minimal.

For the internal layout, like Vickers Mk.1, the crews are rather cramped and three of them are on the same axis by the right side (from Vijayanta's PoV), the problem is further worsen due to the ammunition layout of the tank (up to 25 shells up front, next to the driver); any penetrated shots at the center-mass or from the right side will very like knock down the tank right away, if not detonate right away (at full load). So staying behind the lines to maximize its survivability while helping the team to take out enemy targets.

'''Armour type:''' 


* Rolled homogeneous armour (Hull, Turret roof)
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
|Hull||60 mm (56°) ''Front glacis''
80 mm (32°) ''Lower glacis''
|30 mm ''Top''
30 + 4 mm ''Bottom''
|20 mm (4-5°) ''Top''
19 mm (58°)
|25 mm
5 mm ''Grills''
|-
|Turret||80 mm (19°) ''Turret front''
40-100 mm (1-73°) ''Gun mantlet''
|40-60 mm (1-17°)||40 mm (10°)
60 mm (1°) ''Turret ring''
|25 mm
|-
|}

'''Notes:''' 


* Suspension wheels and tracks are 20 mm thick.

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

Thanks to the lighter chassis, it can be said that Vijayanta traded its protection for far better mobility than the Centurion series. It can go as "fast" as 48 km/h while still retains similar reverse at 11.1 km/h; while it is nowhere comparable to Warsaw-Pact and most other NATO tanks (any but M48 and M60 series), it does give Vijayanta more flexibility than Centurion.

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=942|rbMinHp=538}}

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

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

{{main|Royal Ordnance L7A1 (105 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Royal Ordnance L7A1 (105 mm)|105 mm Royal Ordnance L7A1]] || 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" | 44 || rowspan="2" | -7°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 26.4 || 36.5 || 44.3 || 49.0 || 52.2 || rowspan="2" | 6.50 || rowspan="2" | 5.75 || rowspan="2" | 5.30 || rowspan="2" | 5.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 16.5 || 19.4 || 23.5 || 26.0 || 27.7
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:Royal Ordnance L7A1 (105 mm)/Ammunition|M728, Shell L35, M456}}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''44''' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __
|-
|}

=== Additional armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}

{{main|L21A1 (12.7 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[L21A1 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm L21A1]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 600 (3) || 300 || - || -
|-
|}

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

{{main|L3A1 (7.62 mm)|L37A1 (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 || 3,000 (250) || 500 || - || -
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[L37A1 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm L37A1]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 1,000 (100) || 650 || -10°/+30° || ±60°
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

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

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* 5 second reload with max crew
* Two-plane stabilizer
* 3 machine guns (2 x 7.62 mm & 1 x 12.7 mm) with one on the roof
* An effective HEAT shell with a relatively high muzzle velocity
* Access to APDS and HESH as well
* Above average speed in comparison to some other British tanks thanks to lighter weight

'''Cons:'''

* Poor armour all around, front armour is only good against autocannons
* Lacks the speed to keep up with NATO/Warsaw-Pact counterparts
* Only -7° of gun depression compared to the more common -10°
* The coaxial 12.7 mm machine gun is meant for rangefinding and has only 7 mm of penetration
* The roof machine gun is only 7.62 mm
* Ammo rack in the front right next to the driver
* Slow gun elevation speed affects gun handling

== History ==

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

== Media ==

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

== See also ==

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

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

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8301-development-vijayanta-armour-from-india-en|[Devblog] Vijayanta: Armour from India]]

{{Britain medium tanks}}
{{Britain premium ground vehicles}}

Sherman Firefly

2024-04-17T10:01:14Z

U78375386: mentioned uptier

{{About
| about = British medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| other
| usage-1 = other Shermans
| link-1 = M4 Sherman (Family)
| usage-2 = other uses
| link-2 = Firefly (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=uk_sherman_vc_firefly
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}_AddArmour.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png|ArtImage2_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''M4A4 Sherman VC Firefly''' is a heavily up-gunned modification of the fifth variant of the early-generation [[M4 Sherman (Family)|Medium Tank M4 (Sherman) family]]. The M4A4 Sherman VC Firefly was one of the few Allied tanks that the Germans learned to fear during World War II, from the hedgerows of Normandy, France, to the hills of Italy and the plains of the Netherlands. It was a clever, though risky, and improvised effort to try to keep up with the latest German tank innovations. It was one of the most powerful Allied adaptations of the war and undoubtedly one of the deadliest modifications of any M4 Sherman variants during World War II. Armed with the superb 76 mm Ordnance QF 17-pounder tank gun, this stopgap combination (before the arrival of the new generation of Allied tanks) was one of the most lethal tanks of its day, adding its weight to the Allied struggle to secure victory. After the challenge of fitting such a massive gun into the turret was addressed, the M4A4 Sherman VC Firefly went into production in early 1944, just in time to equip General Bernard Montgomery's 21st Army Group for the Normandy landings. It quickly proved valuable because its gun could nearly always penetrate the armour of the German tanks it faced in Normandy, which no other British tank could accomplish reliably. Before production halted in 1945, between 2,100 and 2,200 units had been manufactured.

Introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]], the M4A4 Sherman VC Firefly serves a similar role as later-generation up-gunned M4 Sherman variants. This tank should provide flanking fire, long-range fire, or rapid and accurate fire to the target while friendly heavy tanks take the spearhead of the assault. The tank is as manoeuvrable as any other M4 Sherman variant; therefore, gathering up speed to flank the opponent is easy. Those who are familiar with other M4 Sherman variants will get used to this tank instantly. While this tank is capable of serving as the frontal spearhead for an assault, it is strongly advised against doing so due to the tank's low armour, which demands players always get the first shot off in each engagement; otherwise, the opponent would be able to swiftly eliminate the tank.

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour (Hull)
* Cast homogeneous armour (Transmission area, Turret)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 50.8 mm (55°) ''Front glacis'' 50.8 mm (7°) ''Driver's port'' 50.8 mm (1-53°) ''Transmission area'' || 38.1 mm || 38.1 mm (22-23°) ''Top'' 38.1 mm (1°) ''Bottom'' || 19.5 mm 12.7 mm ''Engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 76.2 mm (8-44°) ''Turret roof'' 50.8 + 88.9 mm (1-54°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 50.8 mm (2-38°) || 50.8 mm (2-67°) ''Turret rear'' 50.8 mm (1°) ''Radio box'' || 25.4 mm
|-
| Cupola || 50.8 mm || 50.8 mm || 50.8 mm || 25.4 mm
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Suspension wheels are 15 mm thick, bogies are 10 mm thick, and tracks are 20 mm thick.
* Access to the [[Add-on Armor|Add-on Armour]] modification will give the tank substantial coverings on the side hull, each track being 17 mm thick.
* Belly armour is 12.7 mm thick.
* The bow machine gun area has been welded shut with armour, but is only 25.4 mm thick so may present a viable weakness to weaker enemies.
* Unlike the armour on the American Rank III Shermans which saw itself upped from 50.8 mm to 63.5 mm, the British Firefly in Rank III retains the old 50.8 mm base armour thickness on the front hull, as well as the protruding driver and co-driver hatches in front. This makes the Firefly a much more vulnerable Sherman tank than even the American versions, a trade-off for its more powerful armament.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=659|rbMinHp=376|AoAweight=1.805}}

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

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

{{main|QF 17-pounder (76 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[QF 17-pounder (76 mm)|76 mm QF 17-pounder]] || 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" | 80 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+25° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 22.8 || 31.6 || 38.4 || 42.5 || 45.2 || rowspan="2" | 7.67 || rowspan="2" | 6.79 || rowspan="2" | 6.25 || rowspan="2" | 5.90
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.3 || 16.8 || 20.4 || 22.6 || 24.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Shot Mk.6:''' {{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}} - Standard penetrating round, use until better rounds are unlocked.
* '''Shell Mk.1:''' {{Annotation|HE|High-explosive}} - It is ideal for destroying SPAA and lightly armoured tanks, but useless against anything else.
* '''Shot Mk.4:''' {{Annotation|APC|Armour-piercing capped}} - Cap for better grip against sloped armour.
* '''Shot Mk.8:''' {{Annotation|APCBC|Armour-piercing capped ballistic capped}} - Like Shot Mk.4 but with a ballistic cap for improved flight path, as well as better penetration.

{{:QF 17-pounder (76 mm)/Ammunition|Shot Mk.6, Shell Mk.1, Shot Mk.4, Shot Mk.8, 17pdr Shell SS Mk.1}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''80''' || 61 ''(+19)'' || 41 ''(+39)'' || 21 ''(+59)'' || 6 ''(+74)'' || 4 ''(+76)'' || 1 ''(+79)'' || No
|-
|}

==== Optics ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} [[Optics]]
|-
! Which ones
! Default magnification
! Maximum magnification
|-
! Main Gun optics
| x3 || x6
|-
! Comparable optics
| colspan="2" | [[VFW]]
|-
|}

First tank in Medium tank British tech line to have X6 scope. It will not get any better than this until rank VI, so get used to it - it will be the same across entire tech tree for a while with SPAA being the only exception.

As of rank III, this scope is slightly or moderately superior to most medium and heavy tanks, but do not expect to outsnipe German SPG as they have same optics or even better.

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

{{main|M2HB (12.7 mm)|L3A1 (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M2HB (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 800 (200) || 577 || -10°/+15° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| 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
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

'''Shoot and scoot.''' Unless the enemy's tank gunner has been knocked out (black only), cannon breech has been disabled (red/black), or cannon barrel is disabled (red/black) that inhibits the enemy's ability to fire back, don't expose the tank after firing. Always try to retreat back into cover to reload. Once reloaded, preferably pop out of an area different from the last firing position and take another shot. Make sure to eliminate the enemy's ability to fire back by destroying their cannon breech and traverse gears, or incapacitate their driver and gunner again if they were replaced. During this whole process, watch out for other enemy tanks and avoid being swarmed. With situational awareness combined with the correct usage of the map, the Firefly becomes a decent tank capable of effectively fighting every medium and heavy tank it faces.

'''Supporting fire.''' Use your allies to your advantage. Your armour is not the best, but your gun can vaporize almost everything it encounters. Follow heavier, more armoured allies and use them as a shield. Then, after the enemy has engaged your ally, you can pop out from behind and shoot. This will either destroy or injure the enemy where you or your ally can finish off.

'''Fire from afar.''' The Firefly can excel at vaporizing tanks that have clustered crew, like StuGs, SUs, T-34s, KVs, and even Panzer IIIs and IVs. The post penetration affect of the Firefly's shells after the AP buffs allow it to decimate those tanks. However, it is recommended to still shoot from afar, as all of these tanks can destroy the Firefly easily. If forced into a close-quarters fight, try to shoot first and hit their gunner. Then, you could finish them off with another shot.

'''Play it safe.''' Definitely do not play too aggressively. The huge weakness of the 3/4 crew in the turret is almost always pointed out immediately, because it's a huge issue. It good hit either means a quick trip back to the hangar, or a lengthy crew replenishment time on AB. But this ignores the fact that the tank is just a huge glass cannon, as any shot anywhere will likely cripple the tank.

The Sherman Firefly can dish out the punishment necessary for heavy tanks, but can't take it. Don't expose the tank towards enemy fire too long due to the thin armour on the Firefly in comparison to other tanks such as the Soviet [[T-34-85]]s and the German [[Panther D|Panthers]]. Take a shot, preferably from a flanking location, then retreat into cover regardless of the shot's effect on target, because if the target could swing its gun towards the Firefly, or have friends that could hit it, consider writing off the Firefly very soon. This varies between different enemies, as going against something like the [[KV-2 (1939)|KV-2]] would be different than going against a [[Tiger H1|Tiger I]].

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Uses the tried and tested Sherman chassis. Experienced players will find this tank easy to use
* Fast turret traverse speed
* The 17-Pounder gun has high penetration
* Fast and very mobile
* Access to [[Add-on Armor|additional armour]] that covers most of the front and sides
* Has a powerful .50 cal machine gun on the roof
* Despite having no shells with explosive filler, post-penetration damage tends to be enough to knock out crews clustered together
* 17-pounder makes the tank useful in uptiers. Useful especially against [[Tiger H1]], [[Panther D]] and [[IS-1]].

'''Cons:'''

* Armour of a [[M4|M4 Sherman]], very thin for a Rank III vehicle
* Large profile
* 4 crew members, 3 of which are clustered in the turret, making it easier to knock out
* Bad gun depression of only -5 degrees
* Gun post-penetration damage won't always knock out a tank with a single shot
* .50 cal machine gun can't elevate very high; can only engage low-flying aircraft
* Additional armour doesn't really help
* Reverse speed is bad
* Like all vehicles armed with early version of the 17-pounder gun, it will struggle before it has the Shot Mk.8 (painful stock grind)
* Unlike other Shermans, it doesn't have access to a gun stabilizer and thus the gun sight will rock up and down on a sudden stop
* Traverse is mediocre

== History ==

===Concept===
Around 1943 in World War II, the [[M4|M4 Sherman]] was one of the best tanks in use by the Allies. It superseded the German standard [[Pz.III J|Panzer IIIs]] and [[Pz.IV F1|Panzer IVs]] at the time. However, it was during the middle of 1943 that the Sherman design was beginning to wane in superiority with the reveal of newer German tanks in the front lines, namely the [[Tiger H1|Tiger I]] and the [[Panther D|Panther]] tanks.<ref name="ZalogaCh3Panther">Zaloga 2008, ''Chapter 3: The Panzer Nemesis: The Panther Threat''</ref> These tanks are able to not only take out the Sherman at a longer range than the Sherman can compete in, but could also withstand the 75 mm rounds fired from the Sherman with their frontal armour. In order to improve the Sherman's firepower against these better German tanks, the Americans decided to upgun their tanks with the better [[M1 (76 mm)|76 mm gun]]. The British, however, decide to up the ante with one of the Allies' most powerful anti-tank gun at the time, the 17-pounder.

The [[Ordnance QF 17-pounder (76 mm)|Ordnance QF 17-pounder]] was a 76.2 mm anti-tank gun developed by the United Kingdom around 1942, but was considered as far back as 21 November 1940.<ref name="Fletcher17">Fletcher 2008, ''The 17-pounder''</ref> The British predicted that the Germans would be increasing their tank armour gradually to make current anti-tank weapons ineffective in North Africa, a lesson learned when their issued [[Ordnance QF 2-pounder (40 mm)|2-pounder]], [[Ordnance QF 6-pounder Mk.III (57 mm)|6-pounder]], and [[Ordnance QF Mk.V (75 mm)|75 mm]] guns were meeting heavier armoured tanks, and even tanks with superior firepower like the [[KwK40 L43 (75 mm)|75 mm KwK40]] on the [[Pz.IV F2|Pz.Kpfw. IV Ausf. F2]].<ref name="Fletcher17" /> The first prototype batch was completed in Spring 1942 and the design was finalized in 1943 and accepted into service that same year, where it would see great effect in the Italian Campaign as one of the best Allied anti-tank guns.<ref name="Hunnicutt17pdr">Hunnicutt 1978, pg. 303</ref> One of the reasons why the 17-pounder was so effective was the use of the APDS shot (Armour-Piercing Discarding-Sabot), which could penetrate up to 256 mm of armour at 500 m distance; this is due to the smaller, but much faster projectile used that contains more kinetic energy than a full-sized shot. However, drawbacks with this ammunition was the lack of tracer to be able to adjust shots, the inaccuracy beyond 500 yards, and the less damage it could cause to the enemy tank.<ref name="FletcherAmmo">Fletcher 2008, ''Ammunition''</ref>

===Development===
====A kick-start====
The 17-pounder effectiveness against the new German tanks and the lacklustre anti-armour firepower on British tanks brought upon the concept of mounting the 17-pounder onto tanks. The first mention of mounting the powerful gun onto a tank carriage was as early as 09 December 1941 by Tank Board, which prompted the design specification A29, a 45-ton 17-pounder armed tank that was eventually cancelled for another design. The next design took the [[Cromwell V|Cromwell]] tank as its basis, with development proceeding in 1942 as the [[Challenger|A30]] (later known as the Challenger). While A30 was in development, the prolonged development time had Tank Board set up for two more 17-pounder projects, the [[Comet I|A34]] (Comet) for a short term project and [[Centurion Mk 1|A41]] (Centurion) for a long term one, in the summer of 1943.<ref name="Fletcher17" /> However, in the same year, a side project for a 17-pounder tank was conducted by two officers.

Royal Tank Regiment major George Brighty, based at the Royal Armoured Corps Gunnery School at Lulworth in Dorset, had the belief that the M4 Sherman was a better tank mount for the 17-pounder than the A30, which was being tested in Lulworth. He experimented around an acquired Sherman, though came to a conclusion that the turret size was too small for the 17-pounder's breech and recoil. Still, he persisted in his efforts and in a rather absurd solution, fitted the 17-pounder into the turret by locking the gun into the mounts and removing the lengthy recoil system, forcing the tank's mass and suspension to absorb the entirety of the 17-pounder recoil. Though this proved to have worked, the modification was far from ideal for any practical usage.<ref name="FletcherLulworth">Fletcher 2008, ''Developments At Lulworth''</ref>

During his trials, Brighty joined up with another major of the RTR by the name of George Witheridge. Witheridge was also convinced of the Sherman's virtues from his time at Fort Knox when advising on tank gunnery techniques. While he appreciated the dual-purpose usage the [[M3 (75 mm)|75 mm gun]] on the Sherman provided, he was concerned on improving the armour-piercing properties while retaining the same high-explosive charge. Witheridge arrived at Lulworth to Brighty's design, which he found unsuitable. In a statement on how confident such a design looked from the outside, Witheridge test-fired Brighty's 17-pounder Sherman from the outside three times before trying it out inside. Priority soon shifted to develop a recoil system for the Sherman-mounted 17-pounder. However, some time after Witheridge's arrival, the Department of Tank Design (DTD) sent a directive to the two lads to cease their development on the up-gunning of the Sherman, possibly to protect their A30 project. Witheridge, still keen to the idea of using the Sherman, tried to get this directive reversed by appealing to his connections, namely a man going by Major General Raymond Briggs. Briggs, Witheridge's commanding officer in North Africa and also enthusiastic about improving British tank firepower, put the word to Claude Gibb, Director General of Weapon and Instrument Production at Ministry of Supply, to which Gibb approved and the 17-pounder Sherman was back up. However, with the Ministry of Supply now involved with the project, the design was shifted from two enthusiastic officers to the engineers.<ref name="FletcherLulworth" />

====Professional's touch====
One person deemed responsible for completing the project was W.G.K. Kilbourn, a professional engineer at Vickers who was stationed at Chertsey when he was assigned the 17-pounder Sherman by the DTD.<ref name="FletcherDesign">Fletcher 2008, ''Designing The Firefly''</ref> He managed to fit the 17-pounder gun into the Sherman turret by extensively modifying the gun. He replaced the recoil cylinders with shorter ones mounted on the sides, opposite to each other top and bottom, on a special cradle, modified the gun barrel to fit onto the cradle for better support, and placed the gun breech to open horizontally (contrary to the statement that the gun was simply rotated 90 degrees sideways as the operators of the gun have not been rotated along with the breech).<ref name="MoransVideoPt2">Morans 2017, Time (3:00)</ref> The redesigned 17-pounder, named Mk IV was built on 11 November 1943 at the Royal Ordnance Factory and could fit into the Sherman turret,<ref name="FletcherDesign" /> but now the concern was on the crew inside. The large breech of the modified 17-pounder ate up a lot of internal space and isolated the loader on the left side of the gun and turret; the solution was to cut a hole on top of the loader's position and add a hatch. The radio, usually mounted on the rear of the turret, was deemed too close to the recoiling breech for comfort so an armoured box was welded to the turret rear for the radio and a hole cut into the turret rear for operating the radio away from the recoiling gun. The armoured box also had the benefit of acting as a counter-weight for the longer and heavier gun for the turret.<ref name="FletcherConversion">Fletcher 2008, ''The Conversion Programme''</ref> Finally, there was an issue of ammo stowage for the larger and heavier 17-pdr rounds, 6 inches longer than the 75 mm shells. The stowage on the tank was in bins in the turret for ready access, but a bulk of it was placed under the turret floor that could only be accessed when the turret was aligned a certain position for each bin, making them more for replenishing the ready racks during breaks in combat. To increase the stowage for more 17-pounder rounds, the bow machine gunner was removed along with his machine gun (the port welded over by a prominent wedge shaped armour) and a rack holding 15 rounds placed in his location, however the position for the rack was also impossible to reach during combat and one location on the rack was so hard to get to that it wasn't used, making the total stowage 14 rounds instead.<ref name="FletcherDesign" />

Kilbourn efforts and those of assisting engineers managed to finally fit the large 17-pounder gun into the constrained space of the Sherman turret intended to mount the 75 mm gun, as well as perform the necessary modifications to accommodate combat usage of the vehicle. It then moved onto the next stage of being approved for service.

====Conversions====
Inspection of the completed Sherman with the 17-pdr started on 06 January 1944, and the War Office wrote a requirement for up to 2,100 of the tanks to be upgunned. Not every Sherman could follow the conversion, whether by technical or logistics limitations, and only petrol-engined, M34A1 gun mounted, and have a hydraulic turret traverse system. This meant that the Shermans converted were the [[Sherman IC "Trzyniec"|Sherman I]] ([[M4|M4]]), Sherman I Hybrid (M4 "Composite"), and [[Sherman Firefly|Sherman V]] (M4A4). Technically the [[Sherman II]] ([[M4A1|M4A1]]) and Sherman III ([[M4A3 (76) W|M4A3]]) were also eligible for conversion with those standards, but information on the Sherman II are scarce and photographic evidence of cast hull converted Shermans usually turn out to be Sherman I Hybrids; Sherman III are all allocated to the U.S. Army as their mainstay tank so no M4A3 were even available in British service to convert.<ref name="FletcherConversion" /> Tanks armed with the 17-pounder were designated by a "C" in the name at the end of their mark number, leading to names such as the "Sherman VC" to denote a M4A4 with the 17-pounder conversion. Troops with the upgunned Sherman, as early as March 1944, were describing tank as a '''Firefly''', regardless of the type.<ref name="FletcherName">Fletcher 2008, ''What's in a Name?''</ref> How it got the name is debatable, but it is most likely due to the very prominent muzzle flash that the 17-pounder produces when firing.<ref name="ZalogaCh4British">Zaloga 2008, ''Chapter 4: The Future Sherman: Improve or Replace?: The British Approach''</ref>

Still, as D-Day approached for the Allied forces and the A30 Challenger was continually delayed, the eagerness of the troops to acquire the Firefly rose substantially. Four factories were prioritized for the conversion, two at London, one at Manchester and another at Nottingham. From the conversion period of 1944 to 1945, up to and between 2,100 to 2,200 Fireflies were converted, making it the most produced tank with the 17-pounder of the war. Allocation of the Fireflies was one troop per three Sherman troop (troop was an equivalent of platoon and consisted of 4 tanks), but even regiments that were equipped with Cromwells were supplemented with Fireflies until the A30 Challenger was fit for service. The Fireflies were also allocated to Canadian and Polish regiments.<ref name="FletcherConversion" /> Due to the relative newness of the Firefly, most of the training done on the utilization and deployment of the Fireflies were done on the combat field by each regiment.<ref name="FletcherDesign" />

===Combat usage===
====Fighting at the theaters====
The Firefly's first combat action on D-Day was not actually on the land of Normandy, but on the sea. The Firefly's were assigned an unusual role to, while on the LCT that would carry them to the beaches, would fire over the berm towards concrete fortifications and blast them with the 17-pdr. Six Fireflies were allotted, separated into pairs, to DD tank regiments of the British 13th/18th Hussars at Sword Beach, and the Canadians 1st Hussars and Fort Garry Horse at Juno. Though 13th/18th Hussars were reported to not have fired their Fireflies on the way in, 1st Hussars seemed to have good experiences with it in the rough weather. Once the LCT reached the shore, the Fireflies were ordered to disembark and head inland, finishing off obstacles and join their original tank regiments.<ref name="FletcherConcrete">Fletcher 2008, ''Concrete Busters''</ref>

The first non-DD tank regiment with Fireflies to land was the Staffordshire Yeomanry, which had at least 12 Sherman VC with 48 Sherman IIIs, however little information exists on how it performed on the opening days of the Normandy campaign. Other regiments were originally DD tanks with Fireflies, but were employed as regular tank regiments once inland.<ref name="FletcherConcrete" /> One of such regiments was the Sherwood Rangers Yeomanry. It was they who, a few days after the landings, deduced that the Germans seemed to be targeting their Fireflies specifically for their longer guns. Though this deduction was not supported by evidence (19% of total Fireflies were lost, but 29% of regular tanks were lost as well), the concern of Firefly loss was great because of the supply issue. As illustrated that though 22 Fireflies were lost, by June 23 only six replacements had arrived. Experience from the ground and the density of heavy German tanks changed some initial organization of one Firefly troop per three Sherman troop into one Firefly per tank troop. Fireflies were in such high demand that some commanders have expressed thought of obtaining the [[Achilles|17-pdr armed M10]] as supplement.<ref name="FletcherAction">Fletcher 2008, ''The Firefly in Action''</ref> Still, the units acquiring the Fireflies appreciated what they had as it was the only tank in Normandy in the Summer of 1944 that had a reasonable chance of defeating a [[Panther G|Panther]] or [[Tiger E|Tiger]] at combat ranges in the front.<ref name="ZalogaCh6AmericanFirefly">Zaloga 2008, ''Chapter 6: To Paris and Beyond!: American Firefly Deferred''</ref> In fact, the Firefly is most likely the responsible tank that destroyed the Tiger tank containing the Tiger Ace Michael Wittmann on 08 August 1944.<ref name="ZalogaChampionFirefly">Zaloga 2015, ''Chapter 8: The 1944 Tank Contest''</ref>

Once Firefly supply to the Normandy campaign was satisfied in October 1944, Fireflies were allocated to the Italian theater, shared out to the Polish, Canadian, New Zealand, British, and South African regiments stationed there. With that, supply issue arose in that theater for the Firefly, causing the units that received the Fireflies to treasure them greatly. Heeding the comments on how Fireflies were singled out for their long guns, there were attempts to hide the prominent gun barrels, ranging from deceptive paint schemes, camouflage, and even dummy barrels on the back of the Firefly turret that would be pointed forward to mimic the short 75 mm gun.<ref name="FletcherAction" />

Still, the Firefly served in the British Armies in the European Theater of Operations up to and until May 1945, when they were retired along with the end of the war for the replacement of better designs like the [[Comet I|Comet cruiser tank]] and the [[Centurion Mk 1|Centurion tank]].

====Reception====
The Firefly's performance was very favorable for the troops that had to use them against the heavy German tanks. Though a good portion of Germany's armour in the Normandy front were Panthers, a good majority were still [[Pz.IV H|Panzer IVs]] and self-propelled guns,<ref name="ZalogaChampionFirefly" /> all of which were manageable even with the 75 mm guns. Field reports by a Colonel W.E.H. Grylls in 1945<ref name="FletcherAction" /> helped highlight the troop's sentiments on the Firefly in combat, and especially their deficiencies. The muzzle brake sometimes came loose from an inadequate locking design, the traverse gear also failed at times due to the extra turret weight from the gun, rain leaked into the radio box on some tanks, internal space for the Firefly turret crew was comparatively cramped to the Sherman's, the muzzle flash at the gun's muzzle brake can obscure the target enough that it is difficult to ensure the firing round hit it, and muzzle flash on the breech end of the gun inside the turret has a tendency to cause a fair share of discomfort and uneasiness for the crew. Grylls also highlighted the crew praise on how the Firefly tended to not catch fire as quickly as Shermans, though this is deduced to by the placement of the majority of ammunition on the bottom of the hull, like the "wet stowage" arrangement on the newer [[M4A1 (76) W|Sherman models]]. Some of the deficiencies were fixed, such as the flashback at the breech end by implementing a delayed action breech on the 17-pounder Mk.VII model, but all these faults never diminished the popularity of the Firefly, highlighted by the statements of Field Marshall Bernard Montgomery that he wished to have Fireflies replace all types of Shermans in British service.<ref name="FletcherAction" />

On the onset, the Americans were not enthusiastic about the Firefly because they believed they had a comparable design in the [[M1 (76 mm)|76 mm]] armed [[M4A1 (76) W|Shermans]]. It was not until Normandy when they were proven wrong and learned the 76 mm were unable to contend against Panthers from the front. Though they soon developed the HVAP ammunition, General Omar Bradley's 12th US Army Group on 13 August 1944 requested for Fireflies to be made until better American armament like the [[M3 (90 mm)|90 mm]] could be fielded.<ref name="FletcherAmerican">Fletcher 2008, ''The American Angle''</ref> Due to supply constraints, they never received any during that time period. Not that the American's own industries were making the situation easier for the British as when they discontinued their M4A4 Sherman and 75 mm gun production, there was a quick drop in Firefly conversions in the latter part of 1944 until they could supplement the production with enough Sherman I models.<ref name="FletcherSupply">Fletcher 2008, ''Supply and Demand''</ref> In the American's own program, it was advised that they try mounting the 17-pounder in the T23 turret made for the 76 mm gun, but also mounted on the [[M26|T26]] chassis.<ref name="FletcherAmerican" /> This advice did not make much progress. It wasn't until February 1945 when the British finally made time for conversions for the Americans. The first trials were converting two M4A3 Shermans to fit American specifications like fitting their larger radios, adding stowage brackets for the M2 machine gun, and attachment of a M9 elevating quadrant on the gun cradle.<ref name="FletcherAmerican" /><ref name="Zaloga76mmUpGun">Zaloga 2003, ''Upgunning the M4 Tank''</ref> A request of 160 Fireflies were specified on 11 March 1945 for completion on April 30, with the Americans shipping suitable tanks from France back to England for conversion. On April 7th, the initial order was halved to 80 due to the incoming end of the war and its demand ending with the lack of encountered German armour after the Ardennes Offensive.<ref name="ZalogaCh9Firefly">Zaloga 2008, ''Chapter 9: On to the Rhine!: Firepower Improvements''</ref> On the war's end, there were 100 tanks sitting in depots ready for conversion, with 86 converted tanks.<ref name="FletcherAmerican" /> The excess Shermans were given away and the leaders were left on what to do with these Fireflies they no longer needed. It was decided on May 26<ref name="FletcherAmerican" /> that these American Fireflies were to be retained in Europe for equipping the occupational force.<ref name="Zaloga76mmUpGun" /> No evidence exist on what happened to these Fireflies past that point.

===Legacy===
The Firefly's reputation during and after the war is a product of hindsight. The British understood the trend that was happening in German armoured forces and acted accordingly with the 17-pounder. It should be noted that the 17-pounder's super round, the APDS, did not appear in Firefly stowage until August 1944,<ref name="FletcherAmmo">Fletcher 2008, ''Ammunition''</ref> and in combat was really inaccurate past 500 yards and the round fouled the barrel that it affected follow-up shots with APCBC rounds. As such, APCBC round would still be standard usage and though the 17-pounder was still slightly more powerful than the 76 mm, it traded crew comfort and design quality in the Firefly in comparison to the 76 mm gun in the larger T23 turret. What solidified the Firefly's place in history in comparison to the 76 mm Shermans was that on the very first day that the Allies invaded Normandy, the British actually brought the Fireflies while the Americans left their 76 mm guns in English depots.<ref name="Zaloga76mmFrance">Zaloga 2003, ''Initial Deployment Problems''</ref> Thus, the British can claim with great confidence that on the opening days of Operation Overlord, they had a tank that could kill the German cats.

== Media ==


;Skins

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

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|H-wHZ0dzbx4|'''Sherman Firefly - New London''' - ''Oxy''}}

== See also ==


* [[Sherman IC "Trzyniec"]] - Gift version of the vehicle, representing the 2nd «Warsaw» Armoured Division.
* [[M4 Tipo IC]] - Italian Firefly turret on a composite hull.
* [[Sherman Vc (Italy)]] - Italian equivalent of the Firefly
* [[M4A4 (SA50)]] - France's post-war attempt to upgrade the Sherman similarly to the Firefly.

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/3111--en|[Warrior Profile] Ace Tanker Wilfred Harris]]
* [[wikipedia:Sherman_Firefly|[Wikipedia] Sherman Firefly]]
* [https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/gb/sherman_firefly.php <nowiki>[Tanks Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Sherman VC Firefly]

===References===

;Citations
<references />

;Bibliography

* Fletcher, David. ''Sherman Firefly'' Great Britain: Osprey Publishing Ltd., 2008. ''Kindle Edition''
* Hunnicutt, R.P. ''Sherman: A History of the American Medium Tank'' U.S.A.: Feist Publications, 1978
* Morans, Nicholas. ''Inside the Chieftain's Hatch: Sherman VC "Firefly" part 2'' YouTube, 20 Mar. 2017. Web. 29 Mar. 2017.[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tYRFpe27SnA]
* Zaloga, Steven J. ''M4 (76mm) Sherman Medium Tank 1943-65'' Great Britain: Osprey Publishing Ltd., 2003. ''Kindle Edition''
* Zaloga, Steven J. ''Armored Thunderbolt: The U.S. Army Sherman in World War II'' U.S.A: Stackpole Books, 2008. ''Kindle Edition''
* Zaloga, Steven J. ''Armored Champion: The Top Tanks of World War II'' U.S.A: Stackpole Books, 2015. ''Kindle Edition''

{{TankManufacturer Department of Tank Design}}
{{Britain medium tanks}}

Imp.Chaparral

2024-03-26T13:37:52Z

U78375386: groundwork

{{About
| about = US SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the other version
| link = Imp.Chaparral (Israel)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_mim_72_chaparral
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The Chaparral was an SPAA used by the United States between 1969 and the early 2000s. It was a cheap way to adapt an already existing and trusted platform like the M113 to provide close- to medium-range air defence. For this, the AIM-9 Sidewinder missile was used, with different seekers and engines being installed over the years in order to provide better target acquisition, range, and reliability. The Chaparral also saw medium success in international markets, serving with Ecuador, Chile, Egypt, Morocco, Taiwan, and Israel. Its only confirmed kill was a MiG-17 shot down by Israel over the Golan Heights.

Introduced in [[Update "Sons of Attila"]], the Chaparral comes with the benefit of using IR-guided missiles, these can be flared away with countermeasures and a couple of manoeuvres, but it makes it so that no radar is required, which means no ground clutter or lock warning for the pilots. Many jets at the BR lack countermeasures, so its most major opponents are modern ground attack aircraft like the A-10 and Su-25 that have armament capable of outranging the Chaparral and also have countermeasures. The other problem the Chaparral suffers is the lack of a gun; since it has no cannon or HMG, it is not able to shoot down helicopters or jets that are too close for the missile to get a lock.

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

''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''

'''Armour type:''' 


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

'''Notes:''' 


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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=206|rbMinHp=128}}

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

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

{{main|MIM-72}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[MIM-72]] missile || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity (Belt) !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 12 (4) || rowspan="2" | -9°/+90° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || 79.3 || 109.7 || 133.2 || 147.3 || 156.7 || rowspan="2" | 19.50 || rowspan="2" | 17.25 || rowspan="2" | 15.90 || rowspan="2" | 15.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 53.6 || 63.0 || 76.5 || 84.6 || 90.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:MIM-72/Ammunition|MIM-72C, MIM-72E}}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''3''' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The first and most noticeable jump from the M247 to the Chaparral is the lack of radar. The lack of radar can take some getting used to but is not a downside; the lack of a radar renders you invisible to almost any jet that does not have a Radar Warning Receiver (RWR). Even though searching for targets is more difficult, it also makes you more difficult to be found. Thanks to the IR locking, the target will not detect the lock or the missile launch and, thanks to the smokeless missile motor, means that there is only a split second window after firing where you can be detected. This also means that you can reload the missile rack by locking onto the sun and firing your last missile in relative safety.

There are several ways to avoid missing;

* Avoid firing the missile before the target has fired flares, chances are they've been locked by another SPAA and are trying to avoid them. This leaves you the perfect window to fire and cripple them.
* Avoid firing when the target has lots of energy, the less energy the target has means a higher chance you will hit them. Try firing after they've finished an evasive maneuverer.
* In rear aspect, the missiles functionally ignore flares which means that you will be able to lock and fire before they have chance to avoid it. Try to pre-emptively aim in rear aspect so that you can destroy the aircraft after they've passed overhead.
* Don't fire at distant targets travelling transversally, the missiles tend to overcorrect and have a decent chance to miss their target.

As this is the first missile-centric SPAA, actively engaging targets takes a lot less time and effort as the missiles themselves do much of the work for you. Four missiles give plenty of chance to destroy a target in the event that the missile is evaded.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* IRST tracking (undetected by RWR)
* Infrared missile guidance provides more stealthy attacks compared to missiles that rely on radar (fire and forget, no painting to alert enemy RWR)
* Harder-hitting and more manoeuvrable missiles compared to its successor LAV-AD
* Can perform scout functions for extra team assistance
* Thermal imaging to assist with target acquisition

'''Cons:'''

* Missile armament lacks IRCCM
* Absolutely no defensive armament, strictly anti-air
* No armour
* Lacks search radar (must rely on visual and sound to find enemies)

== History ==

[[File:Chaparral US.jpg|thumb|MIM-72 Chaparral at Redstone Arsenal]]
The Chaparral was an anti-aircraft system developed by the United States during the 1960s to offer short-range air defence capabilities to soldiers and armoured units. The Chaparral employs variants of the AIM-9 Sidewinder missile instead of traditional radar-guided missiles and it was meant to be used together with the [[M163]] VADS.

The Chaparral's predecessor was the Mauler, developed during the Advanced Air Defence Program and using the MIM-46 Mauler missile. It was equipped with a total of 9 missiles and no gun, the system was mounted in the M113 chassis and also had 2 radars available. The Mauler was abandoned in 1963 after many problems were discovered with the system, but many of its characteristics were inherited by the Chaparral.

For example, the attempts to modify the M113 to add an SPAA system to it continued in the following years, with the MIM-72 Chaparral going into service in 1969. The Chaparral was a cheap and quick solution to the lack of short-medium range air defence options in the army. This was result of the Provisional Advanced Air Defence program, that evaluated the AIM-9 missile as an option for ground-based AA platforms. However issues started to appear when it was evident that the AIM-9 would not have enough time to react if the enemy aircraft was too close, thus, an M113 was equipped with an M61 Vulcan 20 mm cannon and a radar was to be used in complement to the Chaparral. A separated radar set was developed to be used with both the Chaparral and Vulcan system, however this system is transported by a separate unarmed vehicle and was not suited for frontline combat.

Different versions of the Chaparral appeared in later years, especially during the 1970s and '80s. The Chaparral was seen as a cheap alternative for air defence platforms and was exported to several nations. Most upgrades consisted in improvements to the fire control system and armament, with better missiles adapted to be used in the Chaparral. All-aspect seekers were installed in 1974, and even a naval version was exported to Taiwan after not being of interest to the army.

The MIM-72D was an export variant with improved warhead, the MIM-72E was used during the 1970s and '80s and included a smokeless engine. The most modern variant was the MIM-72G, that used the seeker of the FIM-92 Stinger missile, with deliveries of this new version starting in 1982, and all missiles being modified with the new seeker. After 1981, the system started to be phased out from the regular army, but it was still used during the Gulf War. In the end, all systems were handed over to the US national guard.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_mim_72_chaparral Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[Imp.Chaparral (Israel)]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/8445-development-improved-chaparral-oppa-chaparral-style-en|[Devblog] Improved Chaparral: Oppa Chaparral Style!]]

{{USA anti-aircraft vehicles}}

M60A3 TTS

2024-03-25T14:04:48Z

U78375386:

{{About
| about = American main battle tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = M60 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m60a3_tts
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]].

Very similar to the previous [[M60A1 RISE (P)]], the M60A3 TTS differs with the addition of a thermal sight for the gunner, a laser rangefinder replacing the original optical version, and access to better rounds. Weight, protection, mobility, and other characteristics are virtually the same as its predecessor - this tank holds no surprises. At its rank, the M60 platform begins to show its age, being much slower than a number of contemporary MBTs like the [[Leopard A1A1]] while not having enough armour to resist APFSDS rounds. It is best used with caution as a support or backup tank, where its good gun and thermals are effective and its deficiencies are less apparent.

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


The armour layout of the M60A3 TTS is the same as the M60A1 RISE (P). The ERA is very apparent, and each panel offers 370 mm of protection against chemical rounds and a measly 5 mm of protection against kinetic rounds. This is enough to stop the majority of HEATFS rounds that the M60A3 will encounter, but only for the first hit. Impacts from chemical rounds will destroy large swathes of panels, and follow up shots can be lethal. Many ATGMs, particularly those with tandem warheads, can overcome the ERA and damage the tank since the M60 does not have composite armour underneath, so incoming missiles should still be avoided or otherwise dealt with. It should also be noted that the ERA coverage has some gaps, particularly around the turret ring and the gunner's sight.

The underlying base armour is similar to the layout originally featured on the [[M60A1 (AOS)]]. It consists entirely of cast and rolled homogeneous armour. The frontal hull armour and turret cheeks are fairly thick and can generally shrug off fire from Soviet APHE rounds and autocannons, but the gun mantlet is modeled as having only 127 mm of CHA (with some sloping) and is a major weak point. The turret ring is another weak zone, only 114 mm thick and fairly large in size. The commander's cupola bulges from the top of the turret and is lightly protected, making it an attractive target for APHE and high-calibre HE rounds.

With no specialized protection against APDS or APFSDS rounds, the M60A3's armour should not be trusted. Even weaker chemical rounds can slip between the gaps of the ERA panels with some luck. Considering the tank's unimpressive mobility, enemy flankers are a real concern as well, and nearly every weapon at the M60A3's rank can penetrate the hull sides. Surviving hits should be a pleasant surprise and not an expectation.

'''Armour type:'''

* Cast homogeneous armour
* Rolled homogeneous armour (Rear roof, Engine grille)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 108 mm (66°) ''Front Glacis'' 137 mm (54°) ''Lower Glacis''|| 36 - 70 mm || 25 mm (1°) ''Engine Grille'' 40 mm (31°) ''Top'' 28 mm (61°) ''Bottom'' || 36 mm ''Front'' 20 mm ''Engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 215 + 50.8 mm (1-43°) ''Turret front left'' 230 + 50.8 mm (4-50°) ''Turret front right'' 127 mm (8-57°) ''Gun Mantlet''|| 215 - 49 mm || 57 mm || 48 mm ''Front'' 25.4 mm ''Center''
|-
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Cupola || 127 mm || 70 mm || 50 mm || 101.6 mm
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Tracks are 30 mm thick while suspension wheels are 20 mm thick.
* Belly armour is 19 mm in the front, 13 mm in the rear.
* 15 mm RHA plate between the engine and crew compartment.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,162|rbMinHp=663}}

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

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

{{main|M68 (105 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M68 (105 mm)|105 mm M68]] || 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" | 63 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 21.4 || 29.6 || 36.0 || 39.8 || 42.4 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 6.70
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 13.4 || 15.8 || 19.1 || 21.2 || 22.5
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
The M60A3 TTS has the same ammunition selection as the [[M1 Abrams]].

* The '''M456A2 HEATFS''' round comes as stock choice, which is refreshing compared to the stock APDS on the M60A1 RISE. The HEATFS round is useful for destroying light targets like IFVs and SPAAs but is more difficult to aim and will struggle against opponents with any ERA and composite armour. The post-penetration damage is not any better, so only a few HEATFS rounds should be kept in reserve for use against light targets.
* The unlockable '''M393A2 HESH''' round has potentially more post-penetration damage than the other options, however it has the worst ballistics, the lowest penetration, and is the most difficult to use as a result. For best results, it should be aimed at hull or turret sides and roofs, taking care not to hit ERA, composite armour, or spaced armour. Still, the HEATFS is much more user-friendly for taking out light targets. HESH might be helpful in the occasional unusual situation where a small portion of an enemy tank is exposed, but its crew members are not close enough to the line of fire to be damaged by the APFSDS or HEATFS.
* The unlockable '''M735 APFSDS''' dart is effective against most tank targets since it has a higher velocity than the HEATFS round. Moreover, it will not detonate prematurely on light obstacles (trees and fences), and will cut straight through opponents without decent composite armour.
* The final unlockable ammunition choice is the '''M774 APFSDS''' dart, which has all-round improved statistics from the M735. In particular, it enjoys significantly better angled penetration. If financial cost is not a factor, it should be the M60A3's ammo type of choice.
* The '''M416 smoke''' shell is available too. Obviously, it is not good at damaging enemies, but it can be used to cover advances and blind entrenched targets.

{{:M68 (105 mm)/Ammunition|M456A2, M393A2, M735, M416, M774}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''63''' || 49 ''(+14)'' || 38 ''(+25)'' || 17 ''(+46)'' || 4 ''(+59)'' || 1 ''(+62)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Note''':

* Ammo racks litter the interior of the M60A3 TTS. Avoid taking enough ammunition to fill the turret bustle ammo rack, this way penetrating shots to the turret are less likely to destroy the tank instantly.

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

{{main|M85 (12.7 mm)|M240 (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M85 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M85]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 900 (180) || 626 || -9°/+60° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M240 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M240]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 6,000 (200) || 941 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The M60A3 TTS lacks the mobility to arrive first on the front lines or easily flank, but the unimpressive protection means that advancing steadily in the open is not a safe proposition either. It is best to follow teammates, stay close to cover, and take advantage of the thermal sight to scan for opponents. A quick glance through the gunner's scope can reveal hidden enemies from afar. The armour and mobility issues are less important if one can consistently catch targets off guard and shoot first, and if the rest of the team is causing a ruckus, all the better. Keep an eye out for flankers and avoid staying out of cover for long.

Thermal sights are very helpful and not quite ubiquitous at the M60A3's rank, but they are not uncommon either. IFVs like the [[Begleitpanzer 57]], [[BMP-3]], and [[Type 89]] have them and can spot the M60A3 easily. Thankfully, these targets are more reliant on ATGMs for long distance combat, which are easier to avoid than APFSDS rounds. They will still pack a huge punch upon a successful hit, so do not stand still. The premium [[AMX-30 Super]], [[Leopard A1A1 (L/44)]], and [[Type 74G]] all boast thermal sights and superior mobility, making them difficult targets indeed. The only real way to deal with them is to shoot first. It is also possible for the M60A3 TTS to encounter its cousins in the China tree, the [[M60A3 TTS (China)]] and [[CM11]]. The former does not have ERA and is even more vulnerable while the latter has even worse mobility in exchange for superior firepower; these three tanks all make easy targets for one another.

The [[MBT-70]] currently shares a battle rating with the M60A3 TTS. They are very different tanks and can cover each other's weaknesses to some extent when used as a lineup; when high mobility and aggressive pushes are needed, the MBT-70 (or its devolved sibling, the [[XM-803]]) can be used, and when thermal sights and firepower are needed the M60A3 can pick up the slack. None of these options have very good armour, but few opponents at their rank do.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Adequate 105 mm gun with above average ammo selection
* Equipped with a thermal sight
* ERA offers some chemical protection
* Equipped with a laser rangefinder
* Can be useful in the event of an uptier as a support vehicle thanks to decent firepower and thermal sight

'''Cons:'''

* Large target with a tall and noticeable cupola weak spot
* Armour is poor, especially against APFSDS projectiles
* ERA coverage has significant gaps
* Not very mobile; slow acceleration and overall speed due to very low power-to-weight ratio
* Stock M456A2 HEATFS round is ineffective to vehicles with composite armour or ERA

== History ==


'''The M60'''

The M60 tank, a descendant of the Patton series of tanks, was the mainstay of US armoured forces for much of the Cold War. It saw much combat in various conflicts like the Yom Kippur War, Iran-Iraq War, and the Gulf War, performing well against Soviet contemporaries like the [[T-62]]. Several versions of the M60 were used by the US military, and the last of them was the M60A3.

=== M60A3 ===
'''Development'''

During the 1970s there was a rapid advancement in anti-tank technology, and with the failure of the M60A2 program to produce a sufficient fighting vehicle an upgrade of the M60A1 series was necessary. In 1976, a program to do just that was initiated; the intention was to increase the turret armour and to modernize and improve the technological systems in the tank. The product of the program was the M60A3 tank, a significant improvement over the M60A1 series. Despite the improvement over the earlier M60 models, the M60A3 was viewed as a stop-gap measure, as the M1 Abrams was already being developed and was planned to enter service in 1981.

'''M60A3 Passive'''

This was the first model of the M60A3 series; it was known simply as the M60A3, but was also known as the M60A3 Passive in order to better distinguish it from the later M60A3 TTS. The M60A3 was based on the M60A1 RISE Passive tank, but with a number of upgrades for the turret - most notably changes to the armour and fire control system. The armour on the turret face was increased to 276 mm and the armour on the gun mantlet was changed to 330 mm. The M60A1 RISE Passive tanks uses a coincidence rangefinder and the mechanical M19 ballistic computer. The M60A3 received the M21 fire control system which includes an AN/VVS2 flash-lamp pumped ruby-laser rangefinder for the commander and gunner, solid-state M21E1 gun data computer, improved stabilization mechanism, improved electrical system, and an improved solid-state analog data card bus. The M10A2E3 ballistic drive is an electro-mechanical unit.The commander received an M36E1 passive periscope and the gunner received an M32E1 passive sight. The hydraulic fluid in the turret was changed to a type that was non-flammable. The M60A3 turret was mounted on the chassis of the M60A1 RISE Passive hull, with the same AVDS-1790-2D RISE engine and CD-850-6A transmission, with a Halon fire-suppression system. A total of 748 M60A3 Passive tanks were built, and all were later upgraded to the M60A3 TTS standard.

'''M60A3 TTS'''

The M60A3 TTS was an improved model of the earlier M60A3. The gunner received an AN/VSG2 Tank Thermal Sight (TTS), which was the only major improvement over the M60A3 Passive. 304 M60A3 TTS tanks were built (with production ending in 1983), 1,391 of the US Army M60A1 RISE tanks were converted to the M60A3 TTS standard by the Anniston Army Depot and Mainz Army Depot by 1990, and all 748 US Army M60A3 tanks were also upgraded to the TTS standard by 1984.

'''Production'''

In February of 1978, the first M60A3 tanks were finished at the Detroit Arsenal Tank Plant. The low-rate initial production run was completed at the DATP in October, which consisted of 296 M60A3 tanks; the tanks were first fielded by the US Army in May of 1979. Chrysler Defense was purchased by General Dynamics Land Division in 1982. In May 1983, production of the M60A3 ended with a total of 1,052 M60A3 and M60A3 TTS tanks built; 748 of the tanks were of the Passive version, and 304 were of the TTS version. At this time, the Detroit Tank Plant closed, and production of the M1 Abrams was at the Lima Tank Plant in Ohio. Despite this, the conversion of earlier M60 tanks to the M60A3/E60B standard was still occurring, specifically for other nations through the Foreign Military Sales program. The last M60A3 tanks were delivered through the FMS in May of 1986 to Israel, with a total of 3,268 tanks converted. The tanks upgraded for Israel were surplus US Army M60A1 RISE tanks. Earlier M60 tanks were also converted to the M60A3 TTS standard for the US Army. 1,391 of the US Army M60A1 RISE tanks were converted to the M60A3 TTS standard by the Anniston Army Depot and Mainz Army Depot by 1990, and all 748 US Army M60A3 tanks were also upgraded to the TTS standard by 1984.

'''Service and Export'''

The M60A3 eventually replaced all US Army M60A1 and M48A5 tanks (used by the National Guard until 1987) in service. But, the Marine Corps still used the M60A1 RISE tanks until the M60 was retired from front line service in 1991. The official full name of the M60A3 was Tank, Combat, Full Tracked: 105-mm Gun, M60A3. It was also known as the 105 mm Gun Tank M60A3.

The M60 was designated as the E60 for export by the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS); the original M60 was designated as the E60, the M60A1 series was designated as the E60A, and the M60A3 series was designated as the E60B. The last M60A3 tanks were delivered through the FMS in May of 1986 to Israel, with a total of 3,268 tanks converted. Other nations including Italy, Austria, Greece, Morocco, and Taiwan upgraded their M60s to the M60A3 standard through FMS contracts with Raytheon and General Dynamics in the 1980s. In 1990, surplus M60A3/E60B tanks were sold to Oman, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia.

Several companies offer or have offered upgrade packages for the M60A3, such as the Leonardo M60A3 (from Italy), the Raytheon M60A3 SLEP (from the US), the Magach series (from Israel), and the M60T Sabra series (developed by an Israeli company but used by Turkey). These attempt to increase the firepower and protection of the M60 to modern levels, often featuring 120 mm guns, add-on composite armour, and active protection systems. While the M60 is an old design, its cheap cost and room for upgrades will likely keep it in service for years to come, not unlike the Soviet T-54/55 series.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m60a3_tts Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|zoBPU0n65_A|'''The M60 family''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 3:44 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


* [[M60 (Family)]] - The family/history page for the M60
** [[M60A3 TTS (China)|M60A3 TTS (Taiwan)]] - An M60A3 TTS in service with Taiwan, found in the Chinese tech tree.

== External links ==


* [https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/systems/ground/m60a3.htm [Global Security<nowiki>]</nowiki> M60A3 Patton Tank Thermal Sight (TTS)]
* [http://www.themech.org/vehicle/m60a3-main-battle-tank/ [The Marine Corps Mechanized Museum<nowiki>]</nowiki> M60A3 Main Battle Tank]

{{TankManufacturer Chrysler Defense}}
{{USA medium tanks}}

M60A2

2023-11-22T11:38:55Z

U78375386: Added some extra info, edited a few phrases to make more concise for readers.

{{About
| about = American medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = M60 (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m60a2
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica"]].

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

The M60A2 shares the hull with the other M60 variants. That means that the front hull armour is sufficient to stop 100 mm/105 mm kinetic ammunition of the same tier, while it does not protect you against hollow charge shells with a calibre of 90 mm and above. It also has the same 114 mm thick turret base, which is a weak point. The centre part of the turret is a cast 220 mm plate in front of the cannon breech, which while not thick enough to protect you against any shells of even outdated guns, often eats shots (at cost of the cannon breech). The outer parts of the turret are significantly lower than the breech and rounded like in most post war soviet tanks. If not hit head-on, these sides can bounce most of the incoming shots. On top of the turret is a massive cupola for the commander, which is a big weak spot and often gets your commander knocked out, even the whole tank if your opponent is firing shells with explosive filler. The side armour on the hull is thick enough to withstand cannon fire of up to 25 mm (excluding APDS and the part around the gearbox), while cannons with a calibre of up to 40 mm will have significant problems and the tank may withstand a large number of shells. It will however not stop shells fired out of cannons of equal tier. The back of the hull can even be penetrated by HMGs. The turret side is around the cannon is 120-140 mm thick and will resist most shots if angled. The lower part however will most likely get penetrated often due to the reduced thickness the further towards the turret back you get. The hull is completely filled with ammunition, ammo is placed to the left, right and behind the driver (which is sitting in the middle of the front hull). Taking a reduced amount of shells is therefore advisable. The crew is well spaced, a solid shot in the front turret will likely only knock out a single crew member, since all crew members sit next to each other and not behind each other like in most other tanks, but this obviously increases the chance to get destroyed due to a side-shot. Overall the armour will not completely protect you, but you have good chances to eat a bigger amount of shells than most other tanks.

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


The mobility of the vehicle is average for its tier. With a top speed of 48 km/h (RB) and -11 km/h in reverse, it is not as fast as other tanks like the Leopard 1, but fast enough to get where you want quickly. The manoeuvrability is average to bad: you lose a lot of speed while turning. You can, however, turn on the spot thanks to neutral steering.

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,162|rbMinHp=663}}

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

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

{{main|M162 (152 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M162 (152 mm)|152 mm M162]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 46 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 15.60 || rowspan="2" | 13.80 || rowspan="2" | 12.72 || rowspan="2" | 12.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:M162 (152 mm)/Ammunition|M409A1, M657A2, MGM-51B Shillelagh}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''46''' || 39 ''(+7)'' || 32 ''(+14)'' || 27 ''(+19)'' || 25 ''(+21)'' || 12 ''(+34)'' || 1 ''(+45)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* Empty turret: 25 ''(+21)'' shells.

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

{{main|M85 (12.7 mm)|M73 (7.62 mm)}}

The M60A2 is equipped with a coaxial 7.62 mm LMG and a 12.7 mm HMG on top of the turret. Like on most American vehicles, this allows you to engage lightly armoured vehicles and slow aeroplanes at close to medium ranges.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M85 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M85]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 1,260 (180) || 626 || -15°/+60° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M73 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M73]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 5,500 (250) || 500 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The M60A2 has suffered since the replacement of "Hull Break" with the "Overpressure" mechanic. The main drawback is its main armament, most notably the stock HEAT round. The HEAT round can penetrate the vast majority of targets, however the extremely poor post-penetration damage will not consistently destroy the target in one shot. The high-explosive fairs better due to being able to overpressure most targets (most notably Leopards, or anything resembling that design philosophy) with a single shot to the turret side, turret roof or hull. Before the Shillelagh missile is unlocked, it is recommended to use the high-explosive round as the primary ammunition, while keeping a few HEAT rounds on-hand for the more difficult-to-crack nuts such as the late-era Soviet/Russian heavies and the odd [[Maus]] heavy tank. One downside to consider is the long reload, which will make follow-up shots difficult if the enemy is still operational after the first shot.

Hitting the enemies can be made simpler with further researched modules, such as the laser rangefinder that allows automatic range adjustments for the distant targets. This can help with using the parabolic arc of the HEAT and HE rounds to hit enemies from behind cover with just the cupola visible, though this may not work consistently. The low velocity of the HEAT and HE rounds make hitting long-distance targets difficult, even with the range finder, but this can be alleviated by unlocking of the Shillelagh missile. Though the missile will increase the reload time by almost 20 seconds, the [[SACLOS]] missile guidance can make hitting distant and/or moving targets easier and can regularly trigger overpressure or detonate ammunition. The missile is easier to aim compared to the TOW missile also available at this BR as it is much more reactive and therefore the self-corrections the missile are much less likely to throw it off course. With some wrestling and careful adjustment it can be used to hit stationary aerial targets like helicopters.

Without any mobility upgrades, the M60A2 also struggles to keep up with most of its contemporaries. It is reasonably quick, however the extra weight makes its acceleration poor and will hinder you in reaching powerful positions. Another noticeably poor characteristic is the neutral-steer, with the vehicle struggling to turn on slopes or any form of defilade. However, despite the poor mobility, it performs quite well in close-quarters. The reverse gear is slow, but is still good enough to get the vehicle out of danger after peeking and firing a shot. The turret rotation is also quite good, especially for the size of the cannon which means that the Starship can hold its own in close-quarters.

Due to the odd shape of the turret, and the hull being inherited from the M60 platform, the Starship can be rather difficult for some opposing vehicles to destroy it. For example, from the front, common foes such as the Leopard 1 and other M60s firing kinetic rounds will struggle to effectively deal damage. However, it is not invincible. The turret neck is a large weak spot and can be penetrated by the even [[Tiger II (Family)|Tiger II]]. Not only this, but the large commanders cupola will fuse most APHE rounds and funnel them down into the turret, or (in the case of the Russian BR-412 round found on most Russian mediums at the BR) overpressure the vehicle. The hull is still penetrable by most common HEAT rounds, as is the turret, though its odd shape may make it difficult to consistently knock out all the turret crew in one shot.

Overall, the M60A2 is a hardy vehicle, but struggles when it is not supported and/or fighting heavily armoured vehicles. The M60A2 can be a rather useful asset for brawling with its one-hit potential, but the long reload and inconsistent nature of the shells it fires can make it difficult to consistently work around. It can be useful for long-arming shells or sniping with the missile but its poor mobility makes some useful positions inaccessible.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Very fast turret rotation
* Turret front is hard to predictably penetrate due to its odd design
* Has smoke launchers
* Same ammunition as the [[M551|M551 Sheridan]]
* Stabilizer allows for accurate firing on the move and fast reaction time, especially for a vehicle with the ability to launch ATGMs
* ATGMs can be fired on the move
* The armour can be very good

'''Cons:'''

* Slow off-road mobility: the Starship struggles to reach 30 km/h on a slight downhill
* Cannot fire from cover like the [[IT-1]] or [[RakJPz 2|Raketenjagdpanzers]]
* Stock HEAT has extremely poor post-pen damage and seldom triggers overpressure
* Cupola is one huge weak spot sticking out up top
* ATGM reload time is several seconds longer than normal ammunition
* Can only hold 7 ATGMs total
* ATGM has a very low starting speed making it hard to hit moving targets at closer ranges

== History ==

'''Design'''
[[File:M60A2 at AAF Museum (1).jpg|thumb|M60A2 at American Armoured Foundation Museum in Danville, Virginia.]]
The M60A2 used the Type B turret which featured an unconventional low profile design. The turret base was disc shaped and was very low profile, while the center part was much larger and consisted of a lane running front to rear that mounted the gun breech and behind that the commander's position. The gunner was seated under the disc portion of the right side of the turret, while the loader was located on the opposite side under the disc portion. The commander was located in a rotating cupola at the rear of the center part of the turret. The turret received an interior Kevlar spall liner. A basket was mounted to the rear of the turret for stowage. A bank of four M226 smoke grenades is located on each side of the turret for a total of eight smoke grenade launchers. Additionally, a xenon white light or infrared spotlight could be fitted to the left of the gun for night operations.

The M60A2's main armament consisted of a two-plane stabilized 152 mm M162 gun/launcher mounted in the center part of the turret. The M162 could fire both HE and HEAT conventional rounds as well as the MGM-51 Shillelagh ATGMs. The HE rounds were used against enemy infantry or emplacements, the HEAT rounds were used against enemy armour at close range (it had an effective range of 1.5 km), and the ATGMs were used against enemy armour at longer ranges of up to 3 km for the MGM-51B and C variants. 33 conventional rounds and 13 missiles could be carried in the tank.

Testing of the weapon system found a number of issues. Notably, there were a number of misfires and premature detonations caused by leftover propellant in the gun barrel and breech. As such, a fume extractor was fitted which was later replaced by a Closed Bore Scavenger System (CBSS) which used compressed air to push the fumes out of the gun.

Secondary armament of the M60A2 consisted of two machine guns. One was a coaxial 7.62 mm M73 machine gun and the other was a 12.7 mm M85 machine gun in the commander's cupola. These were later replaced by the 7.62 mm M240 and 12.7 mm M2HB Browning respectively. 5,560 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and 1,080 rounds of 12.7 mm ammunition were carried.

The M60A2 received the M51 Missile Guidance System (MGS), produced by Ford's Aerospace Division. The M51 MGS included an AN/WG-1 ruby laser rangefinder as well as an infrared beam system for control of the MGM-51 Shillelagh ATGMs. The MGM-51 was guided after launch by IR beam which the gunner had to keep on the target (by way of his aiming sight) the entire flight in order to hit the target. The M60A2 was one of if not the very first production tank used by the US Army to include a laser rangefinder. The laser rangefinder allowed accurate ranging of the target up to 4,000 meters to provide the gunner with a firing solution. On the other hand, the laser rangefinder was ineffective at night and was only accurate out to 600 meters at 25% moonlight.

The hull of the M60A2 was originally identical to that of the M60A1. It was powered by a 750 horsepower Continental AVDS-1790-2A engine coupled to the General Motors CD-850-5 cross-drive transmission with two forward and one reverse gear, allowing the M60A2 to reach a top speed of 48 km/h. It used the standard T97 track assembly. Many M60A2s were later upgraded to the RISE standard with an improved AVDS-1790-2C engine and T142 tracks.

'''Production and Service'''

After the M60A1E2 prototype was designated as the Tank, Combat, Full Tracked: 152-mm Gun/Launcher, M60A2 in 1970, the US Army ordered the M60A2 in 1971. Production lasted from 1973 to 1975 with the total production of the M60A2 at 540, all of which were produced at the Chrysler Tank Plant in Warren, Michigan.

The first US Army unit to receive its M60A2 tanks was the B Company, 1st Battalion, 32 Armor Battalion in June 1975.

Ultimately the M60A2 tank was a failure, mostly down to the weapon system. The MGM-51 Shillelagh proved to be an extremely expensive and problematic system due to its advanced technology. There were issues with the propellant as well as the tracking and guidance systems. Not only this, but the fact that the MGM-51 was the only anti-tank weapon at range limited the anti-tank role of the M60A2 greatly; the gunner had to keep the target in his sight during the entire flight of the ATGM from the gun barrel to the impact point. Additionally, the MGM-51 ATGM could not be fired while on the move despite the fully stabilized gun, as well as the fact that the MGM-51 was much more expensive than a conventional round.

These issues, among others, contributed to a poor opinion of the tank by the US Army. The M60A2 even gained the unofficial nickname of "Starship" due to its unconventional turret appearance and advanced technology. The M60A2 was removed completely from service by 1981. Many former M60A2s had their turret removed and replaced by the more conventional M60A3 turret and were put back into service. M60A2s were also converted to noncombat variants in 1985, including the M60A1 AVLB bridge layer and the M60 Panther MDCV mine-clearing vehicle. Many M60A2s were also converted to the M728A1 CEV (combat engineering vehicle) variant as well.

The M60A2 was never cleared for export.
[[File:M60A1E1 Prototype.jpg|thumb|M60A1E1 Prototype at AMVETS Post 93 in Armada, Michigan. Vehicle since repainted.]]

'''Variants'''

* XM66 - Designation for Type A, B, and C turret concepts.
* M60A1E1 - M60E1 hulls with Type A turret fitted with XM81 gun/launcher.
* M60A1E2 - M60A1 hull with Type B turret fitted with XM81E13 gun/launcher. The M60A1E2 was accepted for service, with modifications, as the M60A2.
* M60A1E3 - M60A1E2 experimentally fitted with 105 mm M68E1 rifled gun.
* M60A1E4 - Concept of M60 hull fitted with Type C turret with remote weapons system. Only a turret mock-up was built.
* M60A2 - Production version of the M60A1E2, fitted with M162 gun/launcher and received minor modifications such as a laser rangefinder.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m60a2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|60IVWW1_Flw|'''The Shooting Range #52''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 02:24 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|zoBPU0n65_A|'''The M60 family''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:22 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

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

* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
* ''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.''

{{TankManufacturer Chrysler Defense}}
{{USA medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

M4A5

2023-11-08T09:45:32Z

U78375386:

{{About
| about = American medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses of the designation
| link = M4 (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m4a5_ram_2
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''Ram II*''' Tank was a Canadian cruiser tank developed during the Second World War. It was based on the chassis of the American M3 Medium tank, but with a new turret that could mount the British 6-pounder gun. The Ram II was designed to replace the Valentine infantry tank, which was considered inadequate for Canadian needs. The first prototype was completed in November 1941, and serial production began shortly after. However, the Ram II was never used in combat as a gun tank, because it was inferior to the American M4 Sherman in terms of armament and protection. The Ram II was only used for training purposes in Britain until mid-1944, and some of its chassis were converted into other roles, such as flamethrower tanks, observation posts and armoured personnel carriers.

It was introduced in [[Update 1.61 "Road to Glory"]]. The M4A5 is quite a hybrid of traits from the British and American ground forces trees. The Ram is made up of the transmission, suspension, and engine from the American M3 Lee, the turret platform of an M4 Sherman, and the British [[Ordnance QF 6-pounder Mk.III (57 mm)|6-pounder]] gun. Thus, in its place in Rank 2, the play style is akin to the M3 Lee's mobility with the power of a turreted tank. It should then be played like any standard American medium tank, with extra caution on the weak points presented on the front armour right next to the front machine gun turret.

;US Designation*

The '''Ram II''' was a Canadian tank that was based on the American M3 Medium Tank chassis. The US Army identified it as the '''M4A5''', but it was not a M4 Sherman variant. They used a system to name tanks by engine and hull. The '''Ram II''' had the same engine (A1/A4) and cast hull (A1), so it got the next available M4 number: '''M4A5'''. However, this designation was not widely used and the tank was usually referred to as the '''Ram II''' or simply the '''Ram'''.

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Cast homogeneous armour
* Rolled homogeneous armour (Machine gun turret, Transmission, Lower side hull, Rear engine, Roof)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear (Slope angle) !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 88.9 mm (26-66°) ''Front glacis'' 50.8 mm (0-58°) ''Lower glacis'' 50.8 mm (12-87°) ''Driver's port'' || 63.5 mm (0-67°) ''Upper'' 38.1 mm ''Lower'' || 38.1 mm (0-64°) ''Top'' <br. 38.1 mm (0-52°) || 38.1 mm 25.4 mm ''Engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 60.325 mm (22-26°) ''Turret front'' 69.85 (0-71°) + 38.1 mm ''Gun shield'' 44.45 + 63.5 mm''Gun mantlet'' || 69.85 - 76.2 mm (0-70°) || 69.85 mm (0-58°) || 38.1 mm
|-
| Machine gun turret || 63.5 + 50.8 mm || 63.5 mm || 63.5 mm || 50.8 mm
|-
! Armour !! Sides !! Roof
|-
| Cupola || 22.2 + 50.8 mm || 25.4 mm
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Suspension wheels are 15 mm thick, bogies are 10 mm thick, and tracks are 17 mm thick.
* 8 mm RHA plate separating the engine and crew compartment.
* Only the upper hull sides are 63.5 mm thick, the lower part is still only 38.1 mm
* Armour protecting the transmission is only 50.8 mm thick
* Most ammo racks are located below the turret and underneath the upper hull where it's only protected by 38.1 mm unangled armour

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=620|rbMinHp=354}}

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

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

{{main|6pdr OQF Mk.III (57 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[6pdr OQF Mk.III (57 mm)|57 mm 6pdr OQF Mk.III]] || 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" | 92 || rowspan="2" | -7°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Vertical|up to 16 km/h}} || 19.04 || 26.35 || 32.00 || 35.39 || 37.65 || rowspan="2" | 5.20 || rowspan="2" | 4.60 || rowspan="2" | 4.24 || rowspan="2" | 4.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 11.90 || 14.00 || 17.00 || 18.80 || 20.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:6pdr OQF Mk.III (57 mm)/Ammunition|Shot Mk.5, Shot Mk.5 HV, Shot Mk.8, Shot Mk.9, Shell Mk.10}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''92''' || 83 ''(+9)''|| 74 ''(+18)'' || 62 ''(+30)'' || 46 ''(+46)'' || 33 ''(+59)'' || 1 ''(+91)''|| No
|-
|}

Turret clear: 74 ''(+18)''

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M1919A4 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M1919A4]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 1,500 (250) || 500 || N/A || N/A
|-
| Pintle || 1,500 (250) || 500 || -10°/+70° || ±60°
|-
| Hull || 1,500 (250) || 500 || -8°/+60° || -120°/+50°
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The M4A5 Ram II is a tank that can hold its own. It is a highly mobile tank that can conquer the toughest of terrain, with a top speed of up to 40 km/h in Realistic battles and up to 44 km/h in Arcade battles. It also has great frontal and turret armour, when angled it can bounce rounds.

However, the one weakness is the side armour past the turret ring and towards the engine, which is only 50 mm thick. Behind this armour, the crew, engine and access to the ammo racks are located. A single hit with an APCBC or High Explosive round will blow the poor tank up like a firework. To get the best from this, charge into battle and find cover when the enemy starts to flank you. Stay behind cover, only exposing the sides of the tank when your teammates are with you and can handle any flanking tanks which may try to flank and knock you out. The Ram II can deter enemy planes, its Browning 7.62 mm machine gun with its high firing arcs can shoot down planes that try to dive bomb you in battle.

The Shot Mk. 9 is the round that should be used as main ammunition, it provides good penetration, allowing for the toughest and scariest tanks on the battlefield to be knocked out with well-placed shots to their weak spots.

The M4A5 Ram II has two main playstyles:

* Offensive - Head towards the cap zone as fast possible, fire around every four seconds this is able to scare the enemy tankers away. However, if you encounter a heavy tank such as KV-1 – stop, aim for the lower turret, cannon and turret ring and knock that tank out before you proceed or detrack it and shoot its cannon, disabling its firing capability allowing your team mates behind you to finish it off.

Then once in the point and it has been capped, head out and flank the rear of the enemy team. The M4A5's Shot Mk.9 can handle any threats which can be encountered. However, do not let the enemy tankers flank you and shoot you in your rear or side, this will knock you out.

* Defensive - The M4A5 Ram II provides great frontal protection, keep the front angled and pointed towards the enemy with the rear and sides protected by rocks, remains of tanks, and objects. Or use the tow hook and tow some knocked out tanks to provide your sides and rear with extra protection. Then once the enemy tanks have been knocked out move out and stay with your team mates or bunker down at a strategic point and set an ambush up.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great balance of armour, speed and firepower: relatively easy to play
* Extremely good at taking hits with 5 crew members, similar playstyle to M4A3E2 Jumbo
* Fast firing, punchy 57 mm main gun that can handle most foe it encounters (4 second reload when aced)
* Main gun is semi-stabilized
* Small profile for a medium tank
* Access to engine-generated smoke

'''Cons:'''

* While the sloped frontal armour is adequate, there are several weak spots on the hull and the turret
* 57 mm gun lacks explosive filler and might require follow-up shots
* Slow reverse speed and acceleration
* Very cramped turret, a single shot will likely disable all 3 crew members
* No standard .50 calibre machine gun, only rifle calibre MGs are available

== History ==

===Development===
The aftermath of the Battle of France left the British military decimated as most of their equipment had to be left behind in their withdrawal at Dunkirk. Desperate for military equipment, particularly tanks, they requested from the U.S. to help produce the necessary vehicles to supplement the armoured forces. Canada further assisted the British with armoured vehicle production. The Canadian Pacific Railway's Angus Shops were contracted to build 300 [[Valentine Mk I|Valentine tanks]] for the British, and later Canada themselves ordered 488 Valentines to build up their own tank forces. The Canadians realized that, in addition to the Valentines, they needed a cruiser tank to attack and exploit breakthroughs. Complications between adapting British designs to North American standards and the difference in material quality caused the Canadians to seek an American-derived cruiser tank rather than a British design.

The current standard U.S. tank at the time was the interim design [[M3 Lee|M3 Lee]]. With the 75 mm gun on a sponson rather than its own turret, the M3 Medium tank currently wasn't a suitable candidate as the standard cruiser tank. In 1941, the Canadian Interdepartmental Tank Committee decided to use the M3 chassis as a foundation for a new and better, locally-produced design. The British took interest on this redesigning of the M3 Medium tank and sent a tank expert, L.E.Carr, to assist in the designing of the hull and turret. The hull itself was to be cast and the turret was designed around the expectations to mount the [[Ordnance QF 6-pounder Mk.V (57 mm)|6-pounder]] or the 75 mm gun. The name for the design was the Ram, while the US would designate the Canadian models as the M4A5.

Throughout the Ram's designing and testing, the Canadians ran into problems due to their inexperience in tank design as well as lacking the production lines suitable for the production of tank parts. Since the tank was derived from the M3, the production line required parts such as the transmission and engine that were being built in the USA, but which were required for US tank production, resulting in little surplus for Canadian use. The United States assisted in the production of the Ram by producing the pilot models and the Canadian Tank Arsenal was to be built by Montreal Locomotive Works, themselves a subsidiary of the American Locomotive Company who had experience building M3 tanks for the Americans.

The first prototype was produced in June 1941 and featured a full 360 degree traversable turret with a cast steel body, featuring the same powertrain and engine as the M3 it was derived from. The Ram was also adapted for British specifications with adaption to a right-hand drive and weaponry. Overall the Ram was also shorter than the M3. It also featured side doors and a machine gun turret on the front, but these were removed in later versions. Production for the Ram started in November. Though intended to be fitted with the 6-pounder, the first 50 Rams produced used a 2-pounder due to lack of guns or mounts available for the Canadians. These were labelled Ram Mk.I. By February 1942, the Ram design switched back to the 6-pounder, which was designated the Ram Mk.II, production of which continued until July 1943. During that time span, about 2,032 Rams and its variants were produced.

===Combat history===
Unfortunately, by the time the Ram became battle-worthy for the front-lines, the Americans had started their mass-production of the [[M4|M4 Shermans]]. The M4 Sherman was by all means similar in automotive performance, but benefited by the mass-production of the American automotive industry. The Ram was designed primarily to give the M3 Medium a turret, and the arrival of the M4 made the design redundant, and obsolete. In March 1942, the Canadian government made the decision to switch all production lines to produce the [[M4A1|M4A1]], with the Ram production only continuing until the proper machinery was ready. The Ram never saw combat usage and was only used as a training vehicle in Britain until mid-1944.

The Ram never saw combat as a tank, but variants of it did. Many Ram tanks were converted into armoured personnel carriers known as the Kangaroo, flamethrower vehicles known as the Badger, artillery observation vehicles, ammunition carriers, armoured recovery vehicles, and anti-tank gun tractor. Its most combat-oriented variant was the Sexton self-propelled gun with the 25-pounder howitzer developed to support the infantry, though the Sexton was also produced by the chassis from the Grizzly design.

After World War II, the Netherlands were free to take possession of any Ram tanks in army dumps on their territory. The Dutch used these tanks to equip their first tank units, the 1st and 2nd Tank Battalions. The Rams were in a poor state from low maintenance and disuse so they received additional Rams from Britain in slightly better conditions in 1947. By 1950, most of the Rams were broken down and only 50 were available for use between the two battalions. They were all replaced, along with Shermans in their inventory, by the [[Centurion Mk 3|Centurion]] tank in 1952. The Ram's only usage past that was as static pillboxes on the IJssel line facing the Soviets in the Cold War.

===Legacy===
The Ram, unfortunately, went down in history as one of Canada's war design failures, with the M4 Sherman being produced in parallel by the U.S. overtaking it. It is also a testament to the disparity in the industrial base between the two countries. The Ram could still be attributed to kick-starting Canadian production lines to be able to produce the M4A1 Sherman, which were designated the Grizzly.

About 6 Ram tanks still survive today, with only 3 being the original tank design.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m4a5_ram_2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|4NPt7dr-fKo|'''The Shooting Range #256''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 04:34 discusses the M4A5.|l8NJyFROYqY|'''The Shooting Range #22''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:42 discusses the M4A5.}}

== See also ==

;''Other Canadian ground vehicles present in the game''

*''[[QF 3.7 Ram]]''
*[[Stuart VI (5th CAD) (USA)]]
*''[[C2A1]]''
*''[[ADATS (M113)]]''
*''[[Skink]]''

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/4164-development-m4a5-canadian-cadet-en|[Devblog] M4A5: Canadian Cadet]]

{{USA medium tanks}}
{{USA premium ground vehicles}}

M60A2

2023-11-08T09:37:43Z

U78375386: Updated the usage in battles section; since the M60A2 has suffered with the recent changes to overpressure, its playstyle is almost completely different. Also more in-depth.

{{About
| about = American medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = M60 (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=us_m60a2
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica"]].

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

The M60A2 shares the hull with the other M60 variants. That means that the front hull armour is sufficient to stop 100 mm/105 mm kinetic ammunition of the same tier, while it does not protect you against hollow charge shells with a calibre of 90 mm and above. It also has the same 114 mm thick turret base, which is a weak point. The centre part of the turret is a cast 220 mm plate in front of the cannon breech, which while not thick enough to protect you against any shells of even outdated guns, often eats shots (at cost of the cannon breech). The outer parts of the turret are significantly lower than the breech and rounded like in most post war soviet tanks. If not hit head-on, these sides can bounce most of the incoming shots. On top of the turret is a massive cupola for the commander, which is a big weak spot and often gets your commander knocked out, even the whole tank if your opponent is firing shells with explosive filler. The side armour on the hull is thick enough to withstand cannon fire of up to 25 mm (excluding APDS and the part around the gearbox), while cannons with a calibre of up to 40 mm will have significant problems and the tank may withstand a large number of shells. It will however not stop shells fired out of cannons of equal tier. The back of the hull can even be penetrated by HMGs. The turret side is around the cannon is 120-140 mm thick and will resist most shots if angled. The lower part however will most likely get penetrated often due to the reduced thickness the further towards the turret back you get. The hull is completely filled with ammunition, ammo is placed to the left, right and behind the driver (which is sitting in the middle of the front hull). Taking a reduced amount of shells is therefore advisable. The crew is well spaced, a solid shot in the front turret will likely only knock out a single crew member, since all crew members sit next to each other and not behind each other like in most other tanks, but this obviously increases the chance to get destroyed due to a side-shot. Overall the armour will not completely protect you, but you have good chances to eat a bigger amount of shells than most other tanks.

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


The mobility of the vehicle is average for its tier. With a top speed of 48 km/h (RB) and -11 km/h in reverse, it is not as fast as other tanks like the Leopard 1, but fast enough to get where you want quickly. The manoeuvrability is average to bad: you lose a lot of speed while turning. You can, however, turn on the spot thanks to neutral steering.

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,162|rbMinHp=663}}

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

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

{{main|M162 (152 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M162 (152 mm)|152 mm M162]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 46 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 15.60 || rowspan="2" | 13.80 || rowspan="2" | 12.72 || rowspan="2" | 12.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:M162 (152 mm)/Ammunition|M409A1, M657A2, MGM-51B Shillelagh}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! 6th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''46''' || 39 ''(+7)'' || 32 ''(+14)'' || 27 ''(+19)'' || 25 ''(+21)'' || 12 ''(+34)'' || 1 ''(+45)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* Empty turret: 25 ''(+21)'' shells.

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

{{main|M85 (12.7 mm)|M73 (7.62 mm)}}

The M60A2 is equipped with a coaxial 7.62 mm LMG and a 12.7 mm HMG on top of the turret. Like on most American vehicles, this allows you to engage lightly armoured vehicles and slow aeroplanes at close to medium ranges.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M85 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M85]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 1,260 (180) || 626 || -15°/+60° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[M73 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M73]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 5,500 (250) || 500 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The M60A2 has suffered since the replacement of Hull Break with Overpressure. The main drawback is its main armament, most notably the s tock HEAT; the round can penetrate most targets, however the post-pen damage is extremely poor and will not consistently grant you a kill. The High-explosive fairs better, however, being able to dispatch of most targets (most notably Leopards, or anything resembling that design philosophy) with a single shot. Before having researched the Shillelagh missile, it is recommended to main the High-explosive while having a few HEAT rounds on-hand for the more difficult-to-crack nuts such as the late-era Russian heavies and the odd [[Maus]].

However, your long reload will make it difficult to make a follow-up shots in the event that you miss or the does no damage. The M60A2 also comes with a researchable laser-rangefinder, which can make firing from behind cover with just the cupola visible a rather effective tactic, though hitting distant-moving targets can be difficult. The missile can make hitting distant targets easier, too, however it lengthens the reload even further to around 20 seconds. It also performs poorly for post-pen damage, though will consistently trigger overpressure and ammunition storage.

Without any mobility upgrades, the M60A2 also struggles to keep up with most of its contemporaries. It is reasonably quick, however the extra weight makes its acceleration poor and will hinder you in reaching powerful positions. Another noticeably poor characteristic is the neutral-steer, with the vehicle struggling to turn on slopes or any form of defilade. However, despite the poor mobility, it performs quite well in close-quarters. The reverse gear is slow, but is still good enough to get the vehicle out of danger after peeking and firing a shot. The turret rotation is also quite good, especially for the size of the cannon which means that the Starship can hold its own in close-quarters.

Due to the odd shape of the turret, and the hull being inherited from the M60 platform, the Starship can be rather difficult for some vehicles to kill. For example, from the front, common foes such as the Leopard 1 and other M60s firing kinetic rounds will struggle to effectively deal damage. However, it is not invincible. The turret neck is a large weak spot and can be penetrated by the even King Tiger. Not only this, but the large commanders cupola will fuse most APHE rounds and funnel them down into the turret, or (in the case of the Russian BR-412 round found on most Russian mediums at the BR) overpressure the vehicle. The hull is still penetrable by most HEATs as is the turret, though its odd shape may make it difficult to consistently kill all the turret crew in one shot.

Overall, the M60A2 is a hardy vehicle, but struggles when it is not supported and/or fighting heavily armoured vehicles, it can be a rather useful asset for brawling with its one-hit potential, but the long reload and inconsistent nature of the shells it fires can make it difficult to consistently work around. It can be useful for long-arming shells or sniping with the missile but its mobility means some useful positions will be inaccessible.


'''Pros:'''

* Very fast turret rotation
* Turret front is hard to predictably penetrate due to its odd design
* Has smoke launchers
* Same ammunition as the [[M551|M551 Sheridan]]
* Stabilizer allows for accurate firing on the move and fast reaction time, especially for a vehicle with the ability to launch ATGMs
* ATGMs be fired on the move
* The armour can be very good

'''Cons:'''

* Slow off-road mobility: the Starship struggles to reach 30 km/h on a slight downhill
* Cannot fire from cover like the [[IT-1]] or [[RakJPz 2|Raketenjagdpanzers]]
* Stock HEAT has extremely poor post-pen damage and seldom triggers overpressure
* Cupola is one huge weak spot sticking out up top
* ATGM reload time is several seconds longer than normal ammunition
* Can only hold 7 ATGMs total
* ATGM has a very low starting speed making it hard to hit moving targets at closer ranges

== History ==

'''Design'''
[[File:M60A2 at AAF Museum (1).jpg|thumb|M60A2 at American Armoured Foundation Museum in Danville, Virginia.]]
The M60A2 used the Type B turret which featured an unconventional low profile design. The turret base was disc shaped and was very low profile, while the center part was much larger and consisted of a lane running front to rear that mounted the gun breech and behind that the commander's position. The gunner was seated under the disc portion of the right side of the turret, while the loader was located on the opposite side under the disc portion. The commander was located in a rotating cupola at the rear of the center part of the turret. The turret received an interior Kevlar spall liner. A basket was mounted to the rear of the turret for stowage. A bank of four M226 smoke grenades is located on each side of the turret for a total of eight smoke grenade launchers. Additionally, a xenon white light or infrared spotlight could be fitted to the left of the gun for night operations.

The M60A2's main armament consisted of a two-plane stabilized 152 mm M162 gun/launcher mounted in the center part of the turret. The M162 could fire both HE and HEAT conventional rounds as well as the MGM-51 Shillelagh ATGMs. The HE rounds were used against enemy infantry or emplacements, the HEAT rounds were used against enemy armour at close range (it had an effective range of 1.5 km), and the ATGMs were used against enemy armour at longer ranges of up to 3 km for the MGM-51B and C variants. 33 conventional rounds and 13 missiles could be carried in the tank.

Testing of the weapon system found a number of issues. Notably, there were a number of misfires and premature detonations caused by leftover propellant in the gun barrel and breech. As such, a fume extractor was fitted which was later replaced by a Closed Bore Scavenger System (CBSS) which used compressed air to push the fumes out of the gun.

Secondary armament of the M60A2 consisted of two machine guns. One was a coaxial 7.62 mm M73 machine gun and the other was a 12.7 mm M85 machine gun in the commander's cupola. These were later replaced by the 7.62 mm M240 and 12.7 mm M2HB Browning respectively. 5,560 rounds of 7.62 mm ammunition and 1,080 rounds of 12.7 mm ammunition were carried.

The M60A2 received the M51 Missile Guidance System (MGS), produced by Ford's Aerospace Division. The M51 MGS included an AN/WG-1 ruby laser rangefinder as well as an infrared beam system for control of the MGM-51 Shillelagh ATGMs. The MGM-51 was guided after launch by IR beam which the gunner had to keep on the target (by way of his aiming sight) the entire flight in order to hit the target. The M60A2 was one of if not the very first production tank used by the US Army to include a laser rangefinder. The laser rangefinder allowed accurate ranging of the target up to 4,000 meters to provide the gunner with a firing solution. On the other hand, the laser rangefinder was ineffective at night and was only accurate out to 600 meters at 25% moonlight.

The hull of the M60A2 was originally identical to that of the M60A1. It was powered by a 750 horsepower Continental AVDS-1790-2A engine coupled to the General Motors CD-850-5 cross-drive transmission with two forward and one reverse gear, allowing the M60A2 to reach a top speed of 48 km/h. It used the standard T97 track assembly. Many M60A2s were later upgraded to the RISE standard with an improved AVDS-1790-2C engine and T142 tracks.

'''Production and Service'''

After the M60A1E2 prototype was designated as the Tank, Combat, Full Tracked: 152-mm Gun/Launcher, M60A2 in 1970, the US Army ordered the M60A2 in 1971. Production lasted from 1973 to 1975 with the total production of the M60A2 at 540, all of which were produced at the Chrysler Tank Plant in Warren, Michigan.

The first US Army unit to receive its M60A2 tanks was the B Company, 1st Battalion, 32 Armor Battalion in June 1975.

Ultimately the M60A2 tank was a failure, mostly down to the weapon system. The MGM-51 Shillelagh proved to be an extremely expensive and problematic system due to its advanced technology. There were issues with the propellant as well as the tracking and guidance systems. Not only this, but the fact that the MGM-51 was the only anti-tank weapon at range limited the anti-tank role of the M60A2 greatly; the gunner had to keep the target in his sight during the entire flight of the ATGM from the gun barrel to the impact point. Additionally, the MGM-51 ATGM could not be fired while on the move despite the fully stabilized gun, as well as the fact that the MGM-51 was much more expensive than a conventional round.

These issues, among others, contributed to a poor opinion of the tank by the US Army. The M60A2 even gained the unofficial nickname of "Starship" due to its unconventional turret appearance and advanced technology. The M60A2 was removed completely from service by 1981. Many former M60A2s had their turret removed and replaced by the more conventional M60A3 turret and were put back into service. M60A2s were also converted to noncombat variants in 1985, including the M60A1 AVLB bridge layer and the M60 Panther MDCV mine-clearing vehicle. Many M60A2s were also converted to the M728A1 CEV (combat engineering vehicle) variant as well.

The M60A2 was never cleared for export.
[[File:M60A1E1 Prototype.jpg|thumb|M60A1E1 Prototype at AMVETS Post 93 in Armada, Michigan. Vehicle since repainted.]]

'''Variants'''

* XM66 - Designation for Type A, B, and C turret concepts.
* M60A1E1 - M60E1 hulls with Type A turret fitted with XM81 gun/launcher.
* M60A1E2 - M60A1 hull with Type B turret fitted with XM81E13 gun/launcher. The M60A1E2 was accepted for service, with modifications, as the M60A2.
* M60A1E3 - M60A1E2 experimentally fitted with 105 mm M68E1 rifled gun.
* M60A1E4 - Concept of M60 hull fitted with Type C turret with remote weapons system. Only a turret mock-up was built.
* M60A2 - Production version of the M60A1E2, fitted with M162 gun/launcher and received minor modifications such as a laser rangefinder.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m60a2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|60IVWW1_Flw|'''The Shooting Range #52''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 02:24 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|zoBPU0n65_A|'''The M60 family''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:22 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

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

* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
* ''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.''

{{TankManufacturer Chrysler Defense}}
{{USA medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]