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Leopard 2A5

2023-04-16T13:31:36Z

U8359201: /* History */ Updated history section

{{About
| about = German medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Leopard 2 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_leopard_2a5
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]].

The succeeding variant of the [[Leopard 2A4]], the {{PAGENAME}} is distinguished by an overall improved turret front armour, most notably with the add-on armour bulks in the turret front, giving a wedge-shape rather than the flat shapes that the 2A4 variant presented.

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


The {{PAGENAME}} has improved armour compared to its predecessor, the hull is much better protected and the already impenetrable turret cheeks have more protection on the side of the turret. Add-on armour boosts the ability to protect against HEAT-FS and early APFSDS rounds. The wedges on the front of the turret are able to be blown off if a round with enough energy hits it.The gunners optic is also moved into the roof to eliminate the weak spot which was easily penetrated by any tank.

One big changeover along with the armour wedges in the front is the repositioning of the gunner's sight. In the 2A4, the gunner's sight in the turret front presented a weakness that was easily compromised. In the 2A5, the gunner's sight was relocated to the turret roof, and so this weakness is no longer present on the 2A5. Additionally, the large mantlet of the 2A4 has been replaced by a far smaller and more armoured mantlet, making it far harder to hit, though most ammunition at top tier can still penetrate it easily.

Be aware of Soviet tanks though! Most of them will carry their HE rounds that can easily destroy you anywhere they hit. A hit directly to the turret will most likely send fragments into your hull, penetrate and lets your fuel tank explode or at least set a fire and knock out the gun barrel.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 35 mm (53-82°) ''Upper glacis'' 40 mm (50-51°) ''Lower glacis'' || 10 mm (5°) ''Upper hull'' 35 mm ''Lower forward hull'' 20 mm ''Lower rear hull'' || 20 mm (12-50°) || 20 mm (0-8°) ''Hull roof incl. engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 80 mm (57-59°) ''Right cheek add-on'' 80 mm (55-58°) ''Left cheek add-on'' 30 mm (63°) ''Upper mantlet add-on'' 400 mm ''Mantlet armour'' 250 mm (9°) ''Mantlet shroud'' || 80 mm (20-22°) ''Right add-on'' 80 mm (22°) ''Left add-on'' 35 mm ''Forward'' 15 mm ''Rear'' || 20 mm (10°) ''Basket'' 20 mm (70°) ''Turret underside'' || 35 - 40 mm (80-89°) ''Forehead Armour'' 14 mm (68-82°) ''Forward sides'' 20 mm (89°) ''Rear turret'' 20 mm (83°) ''Basket''
|-
|}
[[File:Leopard 2A5 armour scheme.png|thumb|The frontal KE protection of the {{PAGENAME}} against 3BM42 at 500 m.]]
[[File:Leopard 2A5 CE armour scheme.png|thumb|The frontal CE protection of the {{PAGENAME}} against MIM-146.]]
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Composite armour !! Front !! |Sides
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Hull || '''''Upper+Lower glacis''''' 400 mm ''Kinetic'' 600 mm ''Chemical'' || N/A
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Turret || '''''Turret cheeks''''' 800 mm ''Kinetic'' 1200 mm ''Chemical'' '''''Gun mantlet (Center)''''' 260 - 325 mm ''Kinetic'' 600 - 690 mm ''Chemical'' '''''Gun mantlet (Outer)''''' 425 - 460 mm ''Kinetic'' 825 - 905 ''Chemical'' || '''''Side armour''''' 260 mm ''Kinetic'' 230 - 285 mm ''Chemical''
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Upper hull and Lower rear hull overlap (10 + 20 mm thick)
* Upper mantlet add-on and Mantlet armour overlap (30 + 400 mm thick)
* Holes in the engine deck are covered by 8 mm of mesh

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2,032|rbMinHp=1,327}}

The only drawback compared to the previous model would be the {{PAGENAME}}'s mobility since, despite the 4 tons increase in weight, the engine remains the same, so the {{PAGENAME}} is both slower and less manoeuvrable compared to the [[Leopard 2A4]], but it can still keep up with the other nations MBTs.
The engine remains the same {{Annotation|MTU|MOTOREN-UND TURBINEN-UNION FRIEDRICHSHAFEN GMBH}} MB 873 Ka-501 engine which produces 1,500 hp (1,100 KW) at 2,600 RPM.

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

The first modifications to research should be Parts and FPE. After those, aim for the NVD, DM33/DM53, laser rangefinder, or mobility upgrades, depending on the desired playstyle.

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

{{main|Rh120 L/44 (120 mm)}}

The {{PAGENAME}} has access to DM53 APFSDS shells which make it a deadlier foe as few tanks can stand against it.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Rh120 L/44 (120 mm)|120 mm Rh120 L/44]] || 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" | -9°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 7.80 || rowspan="2" | 6.90 || rowspan="2" | 6.36 || rowspan="2" | 6.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:Rh120 L/44 (120 mm)/Ammunition|DM12A1, DM33, DM53}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''42''' || 16 ''(+26)'' || 1 ''(+41)'' || No
|-
|}
Notes:

* The 2nd rack serves as first-stage ammo stowage.

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

{{main|MG3A1 (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[MG3A1 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm MG3A1]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 4,500 (1,000) || 1,200 || N/A || N/A
|-
| Pintle || 2,000 (1,000) || 1,200 || -8°/+20° || ±120°
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The {{PAGENAME}} is slower, but it has much better armour and access to the DM53 round. With these new changes, the playstyle changes a bit too:

* ''Hull down'': In the 2A4, the gunners optic was easily penetrated so the hull-down was still vulnerable. However, in the 2A5, this weak spot is eliminated and the armour of the turret is much better, so a hull-down position can now leave the {{PAGENAME}} invulnerable, but try to keep your turret protected as well, so then the armour package could last longer throughout the battle.
* ''Sniping'': With the DM53 APFSDS round, the {{PAGENAME}} can now make use of the great distance in combat to deal damage while tanking incoming shots. Try also make use of hull-down positions whilst sniping.
* ''Flanking'': Due to the worse mobility compared to the 2A4, it is better to stick to more stationary tactics like ''hull-down'' and ''sniping''. However, with a little bit of caution, flanking can still be successful.
* ''Staying with nearby teammates:'' Try and stick to nearby teammates as this can improve your lifespan throughout the game.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Excellent 120 mm gun, DM53 APFSDS is capable of penetrating up to 623 mm maximum at point-blank range
* Impenetrable turret cheeks, the add-on wedge armour makes the turret immune from every shell in the game (average of 850 mm against long rod APFSDS and 1,450 mm against HEAT)
* Good armour on the UFP (430 mm against APFSDS), immune to older shells; though many top-tier tanks possess shells which can go straight through
* Great gun handling: 40°/s turret rotation speed (with Ace crew) and -9°/+20° of vertical guidance
* Side turret covered by add-on armour can bounce early APFSDS shells
* Gunner optics are now mounted on top of the turret, removing the annoying weak spot present on the Leopard 2A4
* Cannon barrel and cannon breech absorbs impact rounds which may otherwise penetrate the turret and injure crews
* Gun breech and mantlet has a smaller profile than other western MBTs
* Good thermal imaging quality (Generation 2 for Binoculars, 800 x 600, and Generation 1 for Gunner's view, 500 x 300)
* Very good all round tank especially when played properly

'''Cons:'''

* Lower glacis can still be penetrated by most shells (but is expected for most MBTs)
* 16 shells in the ready-rack may be insufficient when playing in Arcade Battles
* If your turret ammo rack is shot, you might survive but then you lose all your unloaded ammo storage
* Huge hull ammo-rack if more than 16 shells are carried consequently making the tank extremely vulnerable to HE shells
* A penetrating shot on the left side of the hull will most likely knock out the driver, gunner and commander, thus destroying the tank
* A penetrating shell on the right side of the hull will most likely hit the ammo-rack, destroying the tank
* Just like all Leopard series, raised engine deck means less gun depression when the turret is facing the rear
* The wedges can be shot off with several hits, though the turret cheeks alone provide 650 mm against KE
* Tank's weight is 4 tons increased while the engine is still the same, making the {{PAGENAME}} slower compared to the 2A4
* Despite all the added armour, the turret ring and driver's hatch are both easily penetrated, and the enemy will most likely aim at these two spots to disable or destroy the tank
* Is outperformed by its successor, the Leopard 2A6, in terms of firepower. The longer L/55 cannon on the Leopard 2A6 increases the performance of both DM33 and DM53 shells.

== History ==

The Leopard 2A5 is a third-generation main battle tank (MBT) developed by the German company Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW). It is an upgrade to the Leopard 2A4, which was the mainstay of the German Army in the late 1990s. The Leopard 2A5 was first introduced in 1995 and served as the backbone of the German Army until the Leopard 2A6 replaced it in 2001.

The Leopard 2A5 features improved armor protection and a new gunner's sight. The tank's armor consists of composite armor, reactive armor, and spaced armor, providing it with superior protection against anti-tank weapons. The Leopard 2A5 also features a modified turret design, which provides better protection for the crew.

The tank's main armament is a 120 mm smoothbore gun, which is capable of firing a variety of ammunition types, including high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT), armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS), and high-explosive, variable time fuze (HE-VT) rounds. The Leopard 2A5 also features a secondary armament consisting of a coaxial 7.62 mm machine gun and a 12.7 mm machine gun mounted on the commander's hatch (which on some versions may be a 7.62mm one).

The Leopard 2A5 has been used in several conflicts around the world, including in Kosovo and Afghanistan. The tank has proven to be highly effective in combat, with its superior armor protection and firepower providing a significant advantage on the battlefield. During the Kosovo conflict, the German Army deployed a battalion of Leopard 2A5s, which saw significant action against Serbian forces. The tank's superior protection and firepower proved to be critical in the success of the German mission.

The tank proved to be incapable, though, of urban combat, as German forces suffered heavy losses to shoulder anti-tank weapons, like the RPG-7 and M136, which were highly used by guerilla and insurgency forces from rooftops and areas where the Leopard's defenses couldn't reach. Around 1997, the Leopard 2A5M TUSK I prototype was created, featuring an all-around ERA protection, as well as blowout panels, an autoloader, a shorter barrel, and a remote-controlled machine gun (to prevent the commander/loader from having to turn out of the tank to fire it). Although some units were produced, the project was abandoned quickly due to the replacement of the tank by the Leopard 2A6, along with the high production cost of the new variant.

Production of the Leopard 2A5 began in 1995, and the tank was in service until it was replaced by the Leopard 2A6 in 2001. The Leopard 2A5 was produced in Germany and exported to several other countries, including Austria, Canada, Denmark, Sweden, Spain, Norway, and Poland.

Despite its successes, the Leopard 2A5 was not without its production issues. The tank was initially delayed due to problems with the new armor technology, and production costs were higher than expected. The tank also had some reliability issues, particularly with its engine, which was prone to overheating.

In conclusion, the Leopard 2A5 is a highly effective third-generation MBT that provided a significant upgrade over its predecessor, the Leopard 2A4. The tank's superior armor protection and firepower made it a formidable opponent on the battlefield, and it has seen successful combat deployment in several conflicts around the world. While the Leopard 2A5 had some production issues, it was a critical asset for the German Army during its time in service.
== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_leopard_2a5 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|5WHTEcO9zKo|'''German Efficiency Continued - Leopard 2A5''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''|xCV32NWy8Kc|'''Should You Grind The Leopard 2A5?''' - ''Sako Sniper''|Htx2jqp0aEA|'''German ground forces Tier VI/VII''' - ''Oxy'' (Leopard 2A5 at 27:52)|efyCTykFiO0|'''Leopard 2A5 - Much WoW, Such GooD''' - ''Napalmratte''}}

== See also ==

[[File:GarageImage_Leopard_2A5_Cup.png|300px|thumb|right|␙Leopard 2A5, currently only owned by content creator Slickbee]]

;Related development

* [[Leopard 2A4]] - (Preceding vehicle)
* ␙Leopard 2A5 - ([[wt:en/news/6286-esport-war-thunder-youtube-cup-results-en|YouTube Cup 2019]] prize)
* [[Strv 122A]]
* [[Strv 122B PLSS]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6098-development-leopard-2a5-this-time-we-are-dead-serious-en|[Devblog] Leopard 2A5: This Time We Are Dead Serious]]

{{TankManufacturer KMW}}
{{Germany medium tanks}}

MiG-23MF (Germany)

2023-03-25T12:23:03Z

U8359201: /* History */ Updated history section

{{About
| about = jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = MiG-23 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_23mf_germany
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_mig_23mf_germany.jpg
|market=id50161_mig_23mf_germany
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift rank {{Specs|rank}} German jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Winged Lions"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/7469-event-operation-w-i-n-t-e-r-en|2021 Operation W.I.N.T.E.R.]] event.

The MiG-23MF is an export modification of the Soviet [[MiG-23M]]. In this modification, the avionics were changed in favour of more budgetary and somewhat simplified systems. The MiG-23MF was delivered to all the main countries of the Warsaw Pact, as well as to the Arab states of the Middle East, Africa, India and Cuba.

The MIG-23MF inherits all the main characteristics from the original - good top speed, a very good climb rate, a variable sweep wing and a large array of weaponry. The disadvantages also remained: a limited number of countermeasures, a limited number of weapon suspension nodes and rather mediocre manoeuvrability at transonic speeds.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 13,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,339 || 2,329 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.6 || 35.6 || 147.4 || 140.4 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,380 || 2,358 || 34.5 || 35.0 || 194.4 || 170.0
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1470  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 665 || < 650 || < 700 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-29-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,155 kg || colspan="3" | 395 - 445 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,367 kg || 13,462 kg || 14,615 kg || 15,195 kg || 18,400 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,494 kgf
| 0.85 || 0.78 || 0.72 || 0.69 || 0.57
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,987 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.05 || 0.96 || 0.89 || 0.85 || 0.71
|-
|}

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

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

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

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

{{main|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 12 x large calibre countermeasures

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

{{main|OFAB-100 (100 kg)|FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|ZB-500 incendiary}}
{{main|R-3S|R-13M1|R-23R|R-23T|R-60MK}}
{{main|Kh-23M|S-5K|S-24B}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-3S missiles
* 6 x R-60MK missiles
* 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-23T missiles
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 2 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs

==== Custom loadout options ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="11%" | 1 !! width="11%" | 2 !! width="11%" | 3 !! width="11%" | 4
| rowspan="14" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_MiG-23MLA_(Germany).png]]</div>
|-
! 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs
| 4 || 4 || 4 || 4
|-
! 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs
| 1 || || || 1
|-
! ZB-500 incendiary bombs
| 1 || || || 1
|-
! S-5K rockets
| 16, 32 || 16 || 16 || 16, 32
|-
! S-24B rockets
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! Kh-23M missiles
| 1* || || || 1*
|-
! R-3S missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! R-13M1 missiles
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! R-23R missiles
| 1† || || || 1†
|-
! R-23T missiles
| 1† || || || 1†
|-
! R-60MK missiles
| 1 || 2 || 2 || 1
|-
! Delta-NG
| || 1* || ||
|-
| colspan="6" | * It is required to equip the Delta-NG targeting pod with the Kh-23M missiles † R-23R and R-23T missiles cannot be mixed, only one type may be carried across hardpoints
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


'''Air battles'''

Low altitude, high speed, side of the map. Try to get as much speed as possible maintaining a very low altitude and go to the right if you want a more head-on engagement or to the left if you want a side/back of the enemy attack position (in a majority of maps players go to their left). Better used with a squadron, the MiG-23MF can eliminate several enemy aircraft if played right with 3 teammates and using the all-aspect IR-guided R-23T missile.

High altitude, high speed, together with your team, BVR. Fly along with your team, maintain a high altitude until all enemy aircraft are below you, then make surprise attacks on enemies that are busy, normally use the R-23R to destroy the high-altitude F-4s or F-104s with BVR missiles.

No matter which tactic you choose, it is recommended to engage your enemy from their front hemisphere, since you can carry all-aspect IR missiles. This way it leaves your enemy less time to react and dodge the missiles. Also, since both the R-60Ms and the R-23Ts have a relatively wide FOV, it is recommended to lock the enemy using your IRST before engaging the missile lock to slave the missile, and better utilise their wide FOV. Only use the R-60Ms at close range, around 1.5 km. They perform best under such range, and it also gives your enemy less reaction time to release the countermeasures, since R-60Ms are easily tricked by flares.

When in a 1-vs-1 situation, try to use your great low-speed performance to trick the enemy into low speeds, especially when against Phantoms. When your speed drops below 400 km/h, manually control the wing to the most frontal position to improve your manoeuvrability.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Relatively high cruising and top speeds
* Extremely good climb rate
* Manoeuvres better than most of its opponents (such as the Phantoms and other MiG-23s/27s)
* Excellent air-to-air payload, having a wide array of missiles for almost all situations
* Decent air-to-ground payload available
* Large calibre countermeasures are very effective, one to two salvos will be required to evade any missile
* Stock payload includes 2 [[R-13M1]] AAMs
* Can use its radar ballistic computer to hit targets with the cannon beyond the aim assist range (770 m)
* CCIP for rockets allows to deliver quick and very accurate rocket bursts at designated targets, especially in mixed battles

'''Cons:'''

* Underwhelming instantaneous turn rate, cannot pull some extreme manoeuvres easily
* Somewhat prone to stalling, especially after getting hit in one of the wings
* Loses quite a lot of speed in turns
* Bleeds a large amount of energy with its wings swept
* Relatively low countermeasures count (12)
* Low ammunition count and low muzzle velocity for the GSh-23L cannon
* Negative-G manoeuvres at high speeds could cause a wing rip, even for a few seconds

== History ==
The Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-23 was a Soviet supersonic fighter aircraft developed in the 1960s. It was designed to replace the MiG-21, and was the first Soviet aircraft to feature variable sweep wings, which allowed it to operate at both high and low speeds. The MiG-23 was developed in multiple variants, with the MiG-23MF being one of the most successful and widely used.

The MiG-23MF, also known as the Flogger-B, was an upgraded variant of the original MiG-23 that entered service in 1972. It was powered by a more powerful R-35F-300 engine and was equipped with a better fire control system. The aircraft was armed with a GSh-23L twin-barrel 23mm cannon and a variety of air-to-air missiles, including the R-60 and R-23.

The MiG-23MF saw significant combat use in the Middle East, particularly in the Iran-Iraq War and the Soviet-Afghan War. In the Iran-Iraq War, MiG-23MFs were used by both sides, with Iraq operating a large number of the aircraft. The MiG-23MF proved to be a capable fighter in this conflict, with Iraqi pilots claiming numerous air-to-air kills against Iranian F-14 Tomcats and F-4 Phantoms.

In the Soviet-Afghan War, the MiG-23MF was used primarily for ground attack missions, as the rugged terrain and limited air defenses of Afghanistan made air-to-air combat rare. The aircraft was effective in this role, as its speed and maneuverability allowed it to evade ground-based defenses and strike targets with precision.

Despite its successes, the MiG-23MF had several notable production issues. The aircraft had a short service life due to the high stresses placed on its airframe by its powerful engine and variable sweep wings. The aircraft's maintenance requirements were also high, as its complex systems and avionics required frequent servicing.

Overall, the MiG-23MF was an important aircraft in Soviet and international air forces during the Cold War era. It was a capable fighter and ground attack aircraft, and saw significant combat use in multiple conflicts. However, its production issues and short service life meant that it was eventually phased out of service in many countries, with newer and more advanced aircraft taking its place.

== Media ==


;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|nFooO9QHp1I|'''MiG-23MF (German): A Basic Review''' - ''Tims Variety''}}

;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_23mf_germany Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==

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

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

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7476/current|[Devblog] Winter marathon vehicles: MiG-23MF (Germany)]]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}
{{Winter Event}}

T-64B

2023-03-25T12:15:06Z

U8359201: /* Development */ Updated history section

{{About
| about = Soviet medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = T-64 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=ussr_t_64_b_1984
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|GarageImage T-64BV.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png|ArtImage2_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.77 "Advancing Storm"]]. In [[Update 1.79 "Project X"]], the vehicle gained the modification to equip "Kontakt-1" ERA blocks, transforming the variant into a '''T-64BV'''.

The T-64B is a fearsome opponent on the battlefield that improves on the infamy of its older brother, the T-64A. Its triple-layer composite armour is capable of shrugging off hits from most of the other top rank cannons, however its lacklustre engine power can prove a little underwhelming in the face of the turbine engines and hugely powerful turbo diesels the vehicles it competes against sport. The 125mm 2A46M-1 "Sprut" cannon comes with ammunition perfectly capable of perforating almost all forms of armour on the battlefield, regardless of operating range. The low profile of the T-64B allows it to avoid detection and utilize forms of cover that other tanks cannot hide behind. The T-64B can be differentiated from the T-64A by the lack of the side extrusion panels, however is visually extremely similar to the T-80B and it's often hard to differentiate, especially when the armour package is applied. The T-64B gains a pintle-mounted machine gun which can prove useful as a deterrent against CAS and some light vehicles.

With the "Kontakt-1" ERA upgrade, the tank's appearance drastically changes. The ERA is fitted in a "pike" or triangular prism shape. The hull is also different as its covered with ERA and the distinctive triangle at the front is gone. There is also an extra armour plate on the lower plate.

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Composite armour (Hull front, Turret front)
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret)
* Rolled homogeneous armour (Hull, Turret roof)
* Armour radiation material (Roof)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 60* mm (68°) ''Front glacis'' 80 mm (62°) ''Lower glacis'' || 85 mm ''Front'' 70 mm ''Rear'' <br. 20 mm (33°) ''Bottom'' || 20 mm (4-54°) ''Top'' 45 mm ''Center'' 20 mm (21-57°) ''Bottom'' || 30 + 30 mm ''Front'' 20 mm ''Engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 50-330 mm (0-80°) || 65-140* mm (12-29°) || 65 + 30 mm (0-65°) || 45-140 + 30 mm
|-
| Cupola || 45 mm || 45 mm || 45 mm || 40 + 30 mm
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Composite armour* !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides
|-
| Hull || 403 mm ''Kinetic'' 476 mm ''Chemical'' || N/A
|-
| Turret || ''Angles +0-0°:'' 440 mm ''Kinetic'' 500 mm ''Chemical'' ''Angles +30-30°:'' 400 mm ''Kinetic'' 450 mm ''Chemical'' || 200 mm ''Kinetic'' 220 mm ''Chemical''
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, torsion bars are 10 mm thick, and tracks are 30 mm thick.
* Belly armour is 20 mm thick.
* A 5 mm RHA plate separates the engine from the crew compartment
* A log providing 100 mm thickness in wood is mounted on the rear.
* The snorkel tube on the turret rear provide 4 mm of structural steel.
* Hull composite armour configuration is 60 mm RHA + 35 mm Textolite + 30 mm RHA + 35 mm Textolite + 45 mm RHA.
* Turret composite armour configuration is 130-140 mm CHA + 150 mm Ultra porcelain + 100-110 mm CHA.
* Turret side composite armour configuration is 90 mm CHA + 80 mm Ultra porcelain + 60 mm CHA.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,085|rbMinHp=619|AoAweight=1.1|weight=41.2}}

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

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

{{main|2A46M-1 (125 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[2A46M-1 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46M-1]] || 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" | 36 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+14° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 22.85 || 31.62 || 38.40 || 42.47 || 45.18 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.28 || 16.80 || 20.40 || 22.56 || 24.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:2A46M-1 (125 mm)/Ammunition|3BK18M, 3OF26, 3BM22, 9M112, 3BM42}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! Ammo part
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty*
! 4th rack empty*
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''36''' || ''Projectiles'' ''Propellants'' || 36 ''(+0)'' 36 ''(+0)'' || 34 ''(+2)'' 29 ''(+7)'' || 29 ''(+7)'' 1 ''(+35)'' || 1 ''(+35)'' N/A || No
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* The {{PAGENAME}} main ammo rack consists of a mechanized carousel at the bottom of the turret. Such ammo stowage carries 28 propellants and projectiles.
* The 4th projectile rack is the carousel at the bottom of the turret; it serves as first-stage ammo stowage.
* The 3th propellant rack is the carousel at the bottom of the turret; it serves as first-stage ammo stowage.

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

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[NSVT (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm NSVT]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 300 (150) || 700 || -5°/+70° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[PKT (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm PKT]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 1,250 (250) || 700 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The T-64B performs optimally as a sniper or support tank, utilising the low profile and long-range weapon performance. While the armour of the T-64B was good for its time, many later vehicles can fairly reliably penetrate the UFP, even through the composite armour. The gun performs well, with a good variety of ammunition, an autoloader for reliable reload times (even when a crew member is knocked, or putting out fires) and extremely high round velocity for long-range ease of use.

The T-64B can be used as a brawling tank but positioning is key - wherever possible, the LFP should not be exposed, and due to the abysmally low reverse speed, there's usually no escape from a sticky situation. Play carefully in close quarters environments, letting targets move into your gunsights rather than vice versa.

Keep in mind that the vehicle is relatively slow, so you'll often be one of the last into battle. This gives you an opportunity to exploit known intel - where your teammates have been shot/destroyed from, primarily - which can be used to position, ready for pushing enemy tanks.

'''T-64BV'''

One of the later upgrades available to the T-64B is the "additional protection" upgrade, which covers the frontal hull and turret with "Kontakt-1" ERA. This adds a huge amount of protection to the vehicle specifically against chemical rounds. While it's uncommon to see top rank MBTs use HEAT rounds, it can prove useful when facing IFVs/ATGM carriers, or in many cases, helicopters with ATGMs. The weight increase is often well worth the benefits of the BV upgrade.

'''Top-rank Adversaries'''

* [[M1 Abrams (Family)|M1/IPM1/M1A1 Abrams]]: The Abrams series of vehicles are significantly faster than the T-64B, and will almost always get into position before you're able to. The best way to combat them is to catch them while they're pushing. Be careful with shot placement, however, because of the nature of the Abrams vehicles it's often very hard to guarantee a single-shot vehicle knockout - if necessary, disable the vehicle's gunner/weapon first. When you have a clear shot on the back of an Abrams' turret, try to place it through the ammunition and the blast door: this often results in ammo detonation and the vehicle's destruction.

* [[Leopard 2K]]: The Leopard 2K has negligible armour and can often be destroyed with a well placed shot almost anywhere - beware the highly angled surfaces, however, which will bounce shots you may not expect it to. Watch out for the Leopard's mobility, though - it can flank quickly and the L/44 120mm can be deadly.

* [[Leopard 2A4]]/[[Leopard 2A5|2A5]]: The Leopard 2A4/2A5 are similar vehicles to face, although the 2A5 can prove significantly harder to kill. Both vehicles are reasonably mobile, especially compared to the T-64. The best option for both vehicles is to try to get a side shot - but if this isn't possible, try for a round through the lower plate. Where this isn't possible, try destroy the gun directly or place a shot through the turret ring - but avoid the turret cheeks on these vehicles, as they're near impenetrable.

* [[Challenger Mk.2]]/[[Challenger Mk.3|Mk.3]]/[[Challenger 2|2]]: These vehicles can be extremely hard to destroy when they're in a hull-down position - their turret cheeks are extremely well protected and the mantlet is small and hard to place a round through. If you're forced to engage one at long range, it's best to try your best to land a shot in the mantlet or the lower half of the turret cheeks, which are slightly weaker. When a Challenger is exposed, however, simply place a shell through the massive LFP and reap the rewards.

* [[Leclerc]]: The easiest way to disable it is through the huge gun mantlet, and from there putting shots into the LFP/turret ring/mantlet as necessary.

* [[Ariete]]/[[Ariete PSO|PSO]]: The Ariete is reasonably easy to destroy - it has a reasonably vulnerable hull, although the turret can be slightly harder to deal with. Still avoid being a target, because due to the compact nature of the T-64 and spread out ammunition, if an Ariete penetrates you, there's a pretty good chance you're a goner.

'''How to fight the T-64B'''

Disable its gun: the gun mantlet is very weak against top tier shells so it will be destroyed. Even if a shell can penetrate the composite armour, make sure the T-64B can not hit you back as it will penetrate most vehicles it can face. The driver port does not contain composite armour. Rounds with 200 mm of penetration can penetrate effectively, almost guaranteeing a kill. However at long ranges this is a very small target so try and hit the T-64B's gun. The lower plate is a very big weak spot as there is no composite armour there. Any top tier shell will penetrate at close to medium range. However at long ranges the lower plate is a very small target so try and disable the T-64B's gun. Vehicles such as the Type-90 or Ariete C1 are capable of punching straight through the hull composite armour.

Fighting the T-64BV (T-64B with "Kontakt-1" ERA) is a different situation. With the ERA, protection against chemical is 850 mm and above meaning it can stop the HOT missile and DM12 HEAT-FS. If you have an autocannon fire at the ERA to destroy it. Once it is gone you the value will drop to 500 mm against chemical rounds. In some cases, a if a projectile with lots of explosive hits the breech or the ERA on turret, some shrapnel will deflect downwards into the ammunition, destroying the tank even though the projectile was stopped. However, the provides minimal protection against kinetic rounds.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Stock-friendly grind, with decent stock HEAT shell and potent HE shell
* Upgraded hull armour allows it to shrug off hits from many top-rank cannons
* Lower profile compared to other MBTs, allows the user to utilize cover and tactics that other players cannot use
* Ability to mount the Kontakt-1 Explosive Reactive Armour package which enhances first-hit protection against chemical munitions
* Very strong turret armour combined with a bad but usable -6° gun depression can allow it to hull down relatively well in some instances
* Upgraded 125 mm cannon inherited from the previous model
* The high muzzle velocity on the T-64B's APFSDS rounds make it an excellent sniper
* More diverse ammunition choices gives it a great deal of flexibility and allows it to engage at any distance and adapt to different situations and playstyle
* 9M112 "Kobra" ATGM capable of penetrating 650 mm of armour
* Replaces the "oil barrel" smoke grenades with two sets of four-barrelled smoke grenade launchers
* Good optics allow for more accurate shots at long range

'''Cons:'''

* Horrible reverse speed
* Bad gun depression compared to its adversaries
* Gun elevation/depression speed is very slow compared to other MBTs (2.4 degrees per second)
* HEAT-FS shell requires skill against its contemporaries' armour, simply pointing and firing it will not guarantee a penetration
* High risk of ammunition detonation thanks to the vertical nature of the autoloader
* The hull armour is not good enough to reliably stop APFSDS shells from the most higher-tier tanks.
* Angling the tank causes the weak side armour to be exposed and let APFSDS to tear through the ammo carousel

== History ==

The T-64B is a third-generation main battle tank developed in the Soviet Union in the early 1960s. It was designed to replace the [[T-54/55 (Family)|T-54/55]] and [[T-62 (Family)|T-62]] tanks with a more modern and effective design. The development of the T-64B began in 1963, with the first prototype completed in 1965. The tank entered production in 1967 and was first seen by NATO forces in 1976.

The T-64B was a significant improvement over its predecessors. It was smaller and lighter, with a lower profile, which made it more difficult to detect on the battlefield. It was also faster and more maneuverable, with a more powerful engine that gave it a top speed of 70 km/h on the road. The tank was armed with a 125mm smoothbore gun that was capable of firing a variety of ammunition, including armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS) rounds, high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) rounds, and high-explosive fragmentation (HE-FRAG) rounds.

The T-64B was also equipped with advanced fire control systems, including a laser rangefinder, an electronic ballistic computer, and an automatic target tracker. These systems allowed the tank to engage targets accurately and quickly, even while on the move. The tank also had a composite armor system that was more effective than the armor used on previous Soviet tanks.

However, the T-64B was not without its problems. The tank was more complicated to produce than earlier Soviet tanks, which led to production delays and quality control issues. The tank also had a high profile, which made it easier to hit with anti-tank weapons. The tank's autoloader was also prone to malfunction, which could lead to a catastrophic explosion if a round ignited inside the tank.

Despite these issues, the T-64B was widely deployed by Soviet forces and saw combat in a number of conflicts. The tank was used by Soviet forces during the Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s, where it proved to be effective against mujahideen fighters armed with anti-tank weapons. The tank is currently in use by both sides of the Russo-Ukranian War, and has been reported to have some success against even more modern vehicles and anti-tank weapons.

The T-64B was produced in large numbers, with estimates ranging from 5,000 to 7,000 tanks built. The tank was eventually replaced by the T-80 and T-90 tanks in the Soviet and Russian armies, but it remains in service with several other countries, including Ukraine and Belarus. The tank has also been exported to a number of other countries, including India, which produced a modified version of the T-64B called the T-72 Ajeya.

In conclusion, the T-64B was a significant improvement over earlier Soviet tanks, with advanced technology, powerful armament, and effective armor. However, its production and maintenance issues and high profile made it vulnerable in certain situations. Despite these limitations, the T-64B remains a formidable weapon on the battlefield and continues to serve in several armies around the world.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ussr_t_64_b_1984 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200px">
File:T-64B Snow.JPG|250px|thumb|none|The T-64B in War Thunder with Winter Camouflage
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|P6SfZC-n-U4|'''T-64B vs M1 Abrams''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|9VBAWLdfLcw|'''The Shooting Range #90''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:26 discusses the T-64B.}}

== 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/5351-development-t-64b-when-good-is-not-good-enough-en|[Devblog] T-64B: When Good Is Not Good Enough]]
* [[wt:en/news/5503-development-t-64bv-defence-reaction-en|[Devblog] T-64BV: Defence Reaction]]

{{TankManufacturer Morozov}}
{{USSR medium tanks}}

[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

BMP-2M

2023-03-24T18:46:19Z

U8359201: /* History */ Updated history section

{{About
| about = squadron Soviet light tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| other
| usage-1 = the other version
| link-1 = BMP-2
| usage-2 = other uses
| link-2 = BMP (Disambiguation)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=ussr_bmp_2m
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|BMP-2M WebsiteImage 1.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a squadron rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet light tank (infantry fighting vehicle) {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Starfighters"]]. The BMP-2M is a light, mobile yet lethal light tank. Although its survivability and armour are not remarkable, its armament and utility are unmatched at its battle rating.

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

The vehicle's playstyle is relatively similar to the [[BMP-2]]s. The fast turret traverse speed, wide field of view, and thermals for the optics combined with a fast-firing 2A42 autocannon and four 9M133 ATGMs makes it an excellent close range combat IFV and good front line scout at open fields. Armour on this vehicle can only protect the crew from 7.62 mm fire at all angles and sometimes 12.7 mm or even 20 mm when being shot from the front. The BMP-2M can sometimes survive AP rounds such as APFSDS as they can penetrate the vehicle without significant damage due to its large empty space inside. The overpressure mechanic will mean that often even a poorly placed HEAT round may immediately knock out the crew. Overall, survivability is poor, and the BMP-2M should use its manoeuvrability to flank opponents and strike before the enemy can locate you and return fire.

'''Armour type:'''

* High hardness rolled armour (hull and turret)
* Alloy ABT-101 (engine deck)

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 12 mm (81°) || 13 mm ''Top'' 15 mm ''Bottom'' || 16 mm ''Doors'' 13 mm ''Door frame'' || 5 mm 12 mm ''Engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 20 mm ''Turret front'' 25 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 12 - 16 mm || 10 mm || 6 mm
|-
|}

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=558|rbMinHp=318}}

With 60 extra horsepower, the BMP-2M has excellent mobility compared to the BMP-2. The acceleration of the BMP-2M in off road conditions is excellent, and it is able to keep up with top tier MBTs like the [[T-80U]], [[M1A2 Abrams]] and [[Leopard 2A5]]. The reverse speed however is still -10 km/h and it still has no neutral steering. Its amphibious capabilities can be useful to cross deep water sections to reach places normally unreachable for other vehicles.

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

For module research, the following order is recommended:

* Parts & FPE to increase the durability
* 9M133FM-3 and NVD
* 30 mm APDS, Laser rangefinder and Filters
* 30 mm APDS-FS and Smoke grenade
* Pick the next modules you wish to research depending on your needs

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

{{main|2A42 (30 mm)}}

As this tank has a similar playstyle to its 8.3 counterpart, the [[BMP-2]], the main armament of the Shipunov 2A42 30 mm autocannon is a very versatile weapon, considering its vertical guidance, traverse speed, and large selection of ammo belts.

It is not recommended to engage in long-term combat without ATGMs using only the autocannon with any tank heavier than a light tank or an Anti-Tank Missile Carrier unless using the APDS ammo selection. If not using APDS, for heavier tanks it is recommended to cripple it by shooting its tracks and the main armament.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[2A42 (30 mm)|30 mm 2A42]] || 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" | 500 (250) || rowspan="2" | 550 || rowspan="2" | -4°/+74° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 57.1 || 79.1 || 96.0 || 106.2 || 112.9 || rowspan="2" | 1.30 || rowspan="2" | 1.15 || rowspan="2" | 1.06 || rowspan="2" | 1.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 35.7 || 42.0 || 51.0 || 56.4 || 60.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary (self-destroying)}}
* '''30 mm HE:''' {{Annotation|HEF-I*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-T*|High-explosive fragmentation tracer (self-destroying)}}
* '''30 mm APT:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-T*|High-explosive fragmentation tracer (self-destroying)}}
* '''30 mm APDS:''' {{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-T*|High-explosive fragmentation tracer (self-destroying)}}
* '''30 mm APDS-FS:''' {{Annotation|APFSDS|Armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APFSDS|Armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APFSDS|Armour-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot}}

{{:2A42 (30 mm)/Ammunition|HEF-I*, AP-T, HEF-T*, APDS, APFSDS}}

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''2''' || 0 ''(+2)'' || No
|-
|}

=== Additional armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}

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

{{Notice|It is recommended to fire the main and additional armaments separately, using separate keybinds for "Fire from secondary guns" and "Fire from the main calibre gun" or by setting keybinds to select the different weapon groups, as this 30 mm grenade launcher has a very different shell trajectory to the main 30 mm autocannon.}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[AG-30 (30 mm)|30 mm AG-30]] || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
| 300 (300) || 400 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 1.8 || 1.8 || 1.8 || 1.8
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:AG-30 (30 mm)/Ammunition|VOG-30}}

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''1''' || 0 ''(+1)'' || No
|-
|}

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

{{main|9M133}}

Unlike the BMP-2 which only has one ATGM launcher and takes some time to reload, the ATGMs on the BMP-2M are arranged in 4 slots, 2 on either side of the tank. If all 4 are expended, an extra 4 will be able to reload if chosen in the battle start up.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="4" | [[9M133]] missile || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! Capacity (Belt) !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
|-
| 8 (4) || -5°/+10° || N/A || N/A || 26.00 || 23.00 || 21.20 || 20.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:9M133/Ammunition|9M133, 9M133FM-3}}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''2''' || 1 ''(+1)'' || 0 ''(+2)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* Racks are modeled as 2 loadouts of 4 missiles
* Missiles are fired from A to D (see picture).

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

{{main|PKT (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[PKT (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm PKT]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 2,000 (250) || 700 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


During the stock grind, the vehicle is best played as a scout, as the stock ammo with the exception of the ATGMs is poor. Once it is spaded, the vehicle is basically a complete lineup in itself. It can play the part of a light tank, with excellent manoeuvrability, the ability to scout and repair, and the fast-firing autocannon to flank and destroy light to medium armoured targets.
Along with its scout capability to mark enemy armoured targets for allies or eliminate them with its ATGMs. If played cautiously, it can be played as a true IFV, supporting MBTs in close-quarters battle (CQB).

However, when playing close-quarter battle this, it is a support vehicle, and should not engage in frontal brawls with MBTs, as it will quickly be destroyed, due to its thin armour. It can be played at long range, using its scouting ability and ATGMs to knock out targets at long ranges.
While not its purpose, the BMP-2M can also be played as a last resort SPAA with its fast firing 30 mm autocannon and proximity fuse ATGMs in case there is no dedicated vehicle to perform this role.

===Combat tactics===

Avoid frontal confrontation with enemies of any kind, due to the very thin armour, high density of ammunition and crew and vulnerability to overpressure. Any weapon of calibre .50 cal or larger will absolutely shred the BMP-2M to pieces. The vehicle can be played in different roles:

'''Long-range engagement:''' it can use its scouting ability and ATGMs to mark and track targets at long distance. Unlike the BMP-2, this improved variant carries an ATGM with a tandem shaped warhead. This weapon can easily deal with any armour found at its battle rating and even above it. Furthermore, 4 out of the total 8 missiles can be simultaneously fired and controlled at any given time, allowing to engage multiple targets standing close by launching each missile in quick succession before the initial one impacted. This is only further reinforced through the ability to fire on the move at any speed, unlike almost all other ATGM carrying systems. Even in the case that only one missile is left, a 6-second reload will help a quick re-engagement. Be aware that your ATGMs have a lower velocity than the common APFSDS and HEATFS round that your enemies will fire: if you and your enemy fire at the same time, you will most likely be killed first. Once the laser rangefinder is unlocked, one can use APFSDS rounds at range as it can easily penetrate the side and roofs of most enemies it will face, and the high volume of rounds will quickly disable if not destroy the target.

'''Support and repair:''' this style of gameplay is most useful in close quarters environments especially when the vehicle is stock, making use of the autocannon, seeking out flanks and assisting with fast repairs. Good communication about targets is possible through the scouting feature. Adding to the support role is the 9M133FM-3 missile equipped with a HE warhead and a proximity fuse most effective against helicopters in particular.

'''Flanking:''' the main features of this strategy are the BMP-2's mobility and the 30 mm APFSDS belt which easily punches through the sides of any vehicle at its BR. The main focus is on targeting crew members and modules, as the post-penetration damage is very localized. Basic knowledge about crew positions is most useful to get the most out of the rather short APFSDS belt (160 shells).

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* 2A42 autocannon can punch through most vehicles at its battle rating from the back, side and sometimes front with the APDS and APFSDS rounds
* Fast turret traverse speed and gun elevation speed, better gun handling than the standard BMP-2
* 2nd generation thermal optics for the gunner, wide field of view and 2.5 to 12 times zoom for gun sight, suitable for combat at any range
* 1,200 mm penetration power for the standard 9M133 missile; can fire and guide all four missiles simultaneously while on the move
* Can equip 9M133FM-3 HE missiles with proximity fuses, useful for AA duties
* Laser rangefinder keeps the autocannon effective at range, especially with the APFSDS belt
* Amphibious ability can be useful for crossing the water to areas hard-to-reach for other vehicles
* Roof-mounted grenade launcher can clear obstacles that typically machine guns can not
* Can be played as a light tank, long range tank, CQB support vehicle, or SPAA
** IFV IRST has a max range of 8 km and does not trigger aircraft RWR. Works very well alongside 9M133FM-3 proximity-fused HE missiles and works well against aircraft at close range with the autocannon

'''Cons:'''

* Missiles mounted on the turret have a chance to explode from shrapnel if too close to any form of explosion
* Chassis can only protect the crew from 7.62 mm and with limited 12.7 mm or bigger calibre ammunition protection from the front
* No neutral steering, and a slow reverse speed of -10 km/h
* Grenade launcher has only 3 mm of pen and generally can't destroy opponents, instead being used against obstacles and clearing ERA at close range, sometimes damaging tracks or exposed ammo racks (e.g. ATGMs) at very close range
* ATGMs require discipline to use, as the urge to fire all four of them on contact is near irresistible. While firing all four ATGM ensures that the target tank is absolutely annihilated, it is a waste of ammunition if operator does not redirect remaining missiles away from already destroyed tank towards next target
* Destroying the grenade launcher belt knocks the vehicle out

== History ==

In 2017, the Russian Ministry of Defense signed a contract with KBP Instrument Design (Konstruktorskoe Buro Priborostroeniya) for the modernization of BMP-2.

The BMP-2 (Boyevaya Mashina Pekhoty) is a Soviet-era infantry fighting vehicle that was introduced into service in the early 1980s. It is an improved version of the BMP-1 and has been widely exported to other countries.

The BMP-2 was designed to provide infantry with fire support and protection in a variety of combat situations. It features a 30mm automatic cannon and a coaxial machine gun, as well as a missile launcher for the 9M113 Konkurs anti-tank guided missile (ATGM). The vehicle is also equipped with a 7.62mm machine gun mounted on the roof for anti-aircraft defense.

The BMP-2 has a crew of three: a driver, a gunner, and a commander. It can carry up to eight fully equipped infantry soldiers in the rear compartment. The vehicle is amphibious, propelled by two water jets at the rear, and can cross rivers and other bodies of water.

The development of the BMP-2 began in the early 1970s, with the goal of improving upon the BMP-1. The design team focused on increasing the vehicle's firepower, protection, and mobility. The new vehicle was equipped with a more powerful engine and improved suspension, allowing it to travel faster and more comfortably over rough terrain.

The BMP-2 was officially unveiled in 1982 and entered service with the Soviet army soon after. It saw its first combat action during the Soviet war in Afghanistan, where it proved to be effective in both urban and rural combat environments.

Since its introduction, the BMP-2 has undergone a number of upgrades and modifications. The most significant of these is the BMP-2M, which features improved armor protection, a thermal imaging system for the gunner, and an improved fire control system. The BMP-2M also has the ability to launch the 9M133 Kornet anti-tank guided missile.

The BMP-2 has been widely exported to other countries, including China, India, Iran, and Iraq. It has seen action in a number of conflicts around the world, including the Gulf War, the Chechen wars, and the ongoing Syrian Civil War.

Despite its effectiveness, the BMP-2 has not been without its flaws. Its armor protection has been criticized as insufficient, and its lack of air conditioning has made it difficult to operate in hot climates. The vehicle has also been prone to mechanical breakdowns and fires, particularly in desert environments.

In response to these issues, a number of countries have developed their own upgrades and modifications to the BMP-2. For example, India has developed the BMP-2 Sarath, which features improved armor protection, air conditioning, and a more powerful engine. The UAE has developed the BMP-2 Sarab, which features additional armor protection, improved suspension, and a new fire control system.

Despite its shortcomings, the BMP-2 remains a popular and effective infantry fighting vehicle around the world. Its combination of firepower, mobility, and protection make it a valuable asset on the modern battlefield.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ussr_bmp_2m Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" caption="BMP-2M Devblog Images" heights="200">
File:BMP-2M_WTWallpaper_001.jpg|
File:BMP-2M_WTWallpaper_002.jpg|
File:BMP-2M_WTWallpaper_003.jpg|
File:BMP-2M_WTWallpaper_004.jpg|
File:BMP-2M_WTWallpaper_005.jpg|
File:BMP-2M_WTWallpaper_006.jpg|
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|25_5geR39Zw|'''BMP Family''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 05:33 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|3MvXhKo9llU|'''Should You Buy The BMP-2M?''' - ''Sako Sniper''|SXxz6_3D82w|'''BMP-2M - Squadron Effort to Top Tier''' - ''Napalmratte''|qSQ9o2nQdBg|'''BMP-2M - The Russian Death Kornet''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''}}

== See also ==


* [[BMP-2]] - Base variant for the BMP-2M.

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6758-development-squadron-vehicles-bmp-2m-berezhok-en|[Devblog] Squadron vehicles: BMP-2M "Berezhok"]]

{{USSR light tanks}}
{{Squadron ground vehicles}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

2S6

2023-03-24T18:36:08Z

U8359201: /* History */ Updated the history section

{{Specs-Card
|code=ussr_zprk_2s6
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet self-propelled anti-aircraft gun {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.87 "Locked On"]].

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


{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 9 mm || 9 mm ''Top'' 9 mm ''Bottom'' || 9 mm || 9 mm
|-
| Turret || 9 - 15 mm ''Turret front'' 10 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 9 - 8 mm || 9 mm || 9 mm
|-
| Cupola || 9 mm || 9 mm || 9 mm || 9 mm
|-
|}

'''Notes:''' 


The ZPRK 2S6 armour consists of 9 mm rolled homogeneous plates for the hull and turret. Although mostly flat surfaces, its armour can be angled to provide an average of 30mm of effective thickness which can protect against .50 cal machine guns in most places of the hull. The turret is extremely vulnerable to all types of fire at any angle.

The crew consists of a commander, gunner, loader, and driver. Three out of the four crew members are situated in the turret sitting right next to each other. This makes the ZPRK 2S6 extremely prone to destroyed by "crew knocked out" if hit in the turret.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,008|rbMinHp=628}}

The {{PAGENAME}} provides good mobility with its 710 horsepower ChTZ V-46-2s1 engine allowing for a max speed of 65 km/h in ideal conditions. Under realistic testing conditions it tops around 37 km/h in flat grassy areas. This is the same with its reverse speed.

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

The module 2S6M1 unlockable after the module NVD will switch NVD in the gun sight with Thermal gun sight, this makes it better to be able to spot enemy aircraft at longer ranges.

== Armaments ==
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
=== Main armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|4}}

{{main|2A38 (30 mm)|l1=2A38/2A38M1 (30 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[2A38 (30 mm)|30 mm 2A38/2A38M1]] (x4) || 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" | 1,936 (484) || rowspan="2" | 1,250 || rowspan="2" | -9°/+85° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 70.4 || 97.5 || 118.4 || 130.9 || 139.3 || rowspan="2" | 5.20 || rowspan="2" | 4.60 || rowspan="2" | 4.24 || rowspan="2" | 4.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 47.6 || 56.0 || 68.0 || 75.2 || 80.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary (self-destroying)}}
* '''30 mm HE:''' {{Annotation|HEF-I*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-T*|High-explosive fragmentation tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}
* '''30 mm APT:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary (self-destroying)}}

{{:2A38 (30 mm)/Ammunition|HEF-I*, AP-T, HEF-T*}}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''1''' || 0 ''(+1)'' || No
|-
|}

=== Additional armament ===
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}

{{main|9M311|9M311-1M}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | [[9M311]] or [[9M311-1M]] missile
|-
! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
|-
| 8 || 0°/+85° || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{{:9M311/Ammunition|9M311}}
{{:9M311-1M/Ammunition|9M311-1M}}

==== [[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
|-
| '''8''' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __ ''(+__)'' || __
|-
|}

=== Radars ===

The ZPRK 2S6 Tunguska is equipped with a 1RL114 search and separate tracking radar; with the search radar mounted on top of the turret at the rear and the tracking radar located at the front of the the turret. The radar system is capable of tracking a target while scanning, but can only track targets within a 180° arc from the front of the turret.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="5" | 1RL114 - Target Detection Radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Detection Range|The maximum possible range at which a target can be detected}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum Detection Range|The range, below which, a target cannot be detected}}
! {{Annotation|Max Azimuth Scan Angle|How far to each side the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
! {{Annotation|Max Elevation Scan Angle|How far up and down the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum relative speed|The minimum speed a target must be moving, relative to the radar, in order to be detectable by the radar}}
|-
| 20,000 m || 500 m || 360° || 15° || 10 m/s (36 km/h)
|-
! colspan="5" | 1RL114 - Target Tracking Radar
|-
! {{Annotation|Maximum Tracking Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum Tracking Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
! {{Annotation|Minimum target speed|The minimum speed a target must be moving, relative to the radar, in order to be tracked by the radar}}
|-
| 16,000 m || 75 m || ±90° || -15°/+87° || 15 m/s (54 km/h)
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==


The ZPRK 2S6 Tunguska can excel in many different ways. Traditionally it can take down aircraft with ease no matter how far or how close they may be with its excellent combined power of the very fast firing quad 30mm autocannons and the highly agile SAMs it has in its disposal. The SAMs are very fast and extremely agile, with the assistance of tracking and enough experience they can be almost virtually impossible to evade, even by the fastest and most agile aircraft. Each of the eight missiles is mounted on its own launch tube, which means you can launch one after the other without waiting for another one to reload, such as in systems like the Roland 1 and FlaRakRad. They also have a long range of 8 km stock, and 10 km with the 2S6M1 modification installed, which is enough to hit any helicopters hovering at the edge of their Air-to-Ground missile ranges. However, some vehicles can prove very challenging to take down, particularly those equipped with radar warning and missile alert systems, as they can quickly take evasive actions or hide behind terrain to prevent them from being hit.

If needed, the Tunguska can be an excellent flanking or support vehicle by ripping apart enemy gun barrels or tracks which would disable them for your allies to finish off. Of course with the AP-T belt, the Tunguska can rip apart enemy tanks/MBTs from the side or rear with relatively good shrapnel (for a 30mm) and range (as it is an AP-T belt). This makes the Tunguska very versatile in combat despite being labelled as an SPAAG. However, it's best to keep in mind that you have very little armour and you are a relatively large target which means you are very fragile in direct combat/brawls especially with artillery around you. So being careful and selective of how you should play during a specific time is essential.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Excellent armament - a pair of very strong and rapidly firing dual 30 mm guns, as well as a whopping eight surface-to-air missiles (SAM)
* Absurdly high elevation and traverse speeds
* Fast and agile SAMs allow for hitting targets moving at an extreme angle and speed
* Fantastic radar - both the coverage and its update speed are among the best in the game
* Can easily disable or destroy light tanks, even MBTs can be knocked out at short or medium ranges by hitting its sides or frontal weak spots
* Fantastic reverse speed, allowing peeking out for a burst then reversing into cover
* Hydropneumatic suspension system, the suspension clearance is able to be increased and decreased to help take cover (if the keys are bound)
* Neutral steering, which is rather uncommon in Soviet vehicles
* High resolution thermal imaging (part of the 2S6M1 modification), allowing for easier spotting of both aircraft and tanks
* Both radar and optical tracking, can be switched from one to another at any time depending on which is best in the situation.

'''Cons:'''

* Virtually no armour - not getting hit is of utmost importance
* High profile, as well as a very visible radar dish when it's spinning
* Very recognizable firing sound, an enormous streak of tracers even with the shortest of bursts, and a large plume of smoke for each launcher missile draws attention
* Poor crew placement, a single shot may very well incapacitate most of, if not all, of your crew
* Low ammo count, using the cannons liberally is not recommended
* Very bright tracers will easily reveal your location to enemies

== History ==

The ZPRK 2S6 is a Soviet/Russian self-propelled anti-aircraft gun (SPAAG) developed in the 1960s. It was introduced into service in 1971 and has since been used by several countries. The 2S6 is also known by its NATO reporting name, the "GAINFUL."

The 2S6 is a fully-tracked, lightly armored vehicle that carries a 30mm automatic cannon and up to four 9M311-1 or 9M311-3 missiles in sealed tubes on its turret. The 2S6 uses a fire-control radar mounted on top of its turret, which can detect targets up to 18 km away and guide both the cannon and missiles onto them. The system can engage low-flying aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles, and unmanned aerial vehicles.

The 2S6 was designed to provide mobile air defense protection for ground forces against low-altitude air attacks in all weather conditions, day or night. The system has a high rate of fire and can engage multiple targets simultaneously, making it a formidable defense against air threats. The 2S6 also has the ability to fire on the move, allowing it to keep up with advancing ground forces.

The 2S6 was first used in combat during the Soviet-Afghan War in the 1980s. It was also used in the Gulf War, where it proved to be highly effective against low-flying Iraqi aircraft and helicopters. The 2S6 has also been used in the Chechen Wars, the Russo-Georgian War, and the Syrian Civil War.

The 2S6 has undergone several upgrades since its introduction, including improvements to its radar and the addition of a new missile, the 9M337. The upgraded system, known as the 2S6M1, has increased range and accuracy and can engage more types of targets.

In addition to Russia, the 2S6 has been exported to several countries, including Algeria, Belarus, India, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Syria, and Ukraine. The system is highly regarded for its mobility and effectiveness, and its low cost compared to other air defense systems.

Despite its effectiveness, the 2S6 has its limitations. Its relatively short range and lack of protection against high-altitude threats make it vulnerable to attack by modern air defense systems. However, the 2S6 remains a highly capable and widely used air defense system, and its continued use and development demonstrate its importance in modern warfare.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ussr_zprk_2s6 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|luvhoX8Ht1I|'''New anti-air defence''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 8:42 - ''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 ==


* [[wt:en/news/6070-development-2s6-tunguska-better-together-en|[Devblog] 2S6 Tunguska: Better Together]]

{{USSR anti-aircraft vehicles}}

T-72B3

2023-03-24T18:30:06Z

U8359201: /* History */ Updated the history section

{{About
| about = Russian medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = T-72 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=ussr_t_72b3_2011
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|GarageImage_T-72B3_UBH.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Russian medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Raining Fire"]].

The T-72B3 is a 2010s upgrade of the venerable [[T-72B (1989)]]. It now has thermal sights for the gunner and the same ammunition selection as the preceding [[T-90A]]; useful improvements that allow it to fight top-tier tanks effectively while retaining the T-72B's strong armor, but the unimproved mobility really hurts at its rank. What really brings out this tank's potential is the T-72B3 UBH modification, which installs a 1,130 horsepower engine, adds ERA to the hull and turret sides, and drastically improves the gun handling. This does not completely eliminate the T-72's flaws, such as the 5 km/h reverse speed, but it does make the UBH arguably the ultimate member of the T-72 family in War Thunder — in many respects it is actually better than the T-90A it was intended to be an affordable supplement to, and it complements its distant cousin, the [[T-80U]], as an alternative with lower agility but superior firepower.

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

[[File:T-72B3_weak_spots.png|400px|thumb|right|Vulnerable areas of the T-72B3's frontal profile. The gunner's sight is a risky shot as it has a chance of ricocheting.]]
Overall, the armour protection of the T-72B3 can be considered almost the same as in the [[T-90A]] and [[T-80U]]. The T-72B3, similar to the [[T-72B (1989)]] and T-90A, has access to the CONTACT-5 ERA. This ERA (different from Relict and CONTACT-1 seen in other T-72B series) has the particularity that it has stopping power against APFSDS (similar to Dorchester). Different from other T-72s and T-90A, this tank also gets access to the multi-layer Relict ERA in the side-skirts and slat armour (cage) on the engine deck sides and rear. Fuel tanks on either side of the driver can soak up some shrapnel and add to the overall survivability although they are most likely to be lit on fire if hit with HEAT-FS or an ATGM. However, as with all Russian autoloaded MBTs, there are only three crew members so a well-placed shot is capable of causing a crew knock-out. Despite having a carousel autoloader which is not protected by any blast shield like on the [[Leclerc]] and [[Type 90]] MBTs, it is harder to ammo rack compared to the T-80s especially since the ammo is scattered horizontally on top of each other ("=" in this shape) and not in an L shape (in which charges are vertical and projectiles are horizontal). This reduces the chances of ammo rack compared to the T-80s. However, all side shots on the hull will be lethal regardless of the carousel as said shot will take out two crew members. The ERA offers really good protection against chemical energy penetrators such as HEAT-FS, ATGMs, and anti-tank grenades, having a protection of 420 mm against chemical energy and 120 mm against kinetic energy. This makes the tank capable of withstanding hits of all HEAT-FS of the BR (most of them penetrate between 320 mm to 480 mm) and ATGMs (between 400 mm to 1,000 mm). It should be noted that ERA itself cannot stop all the spalling created by the premature explosion, the armour plating is what stops the spalling in case the ATGM has more penetration than what the ERA can withstand.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull ||60 mm (69°) Front glacis||80 mm (0°) Front 70 mm (0°) Rear
| 40 mm (30°) Top 40 mm (30°) Center 20 mm (29°) Bottom
| 30 mm Front 20 mm Engine deck
|-
| Turret || 585-660 mm ''Turret front'' 220-600 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 180-240 mm || 75-150 mm || 45 mm
|-
|Cupola
|40 mm
|40 mm
|-
|}

'''Notes:'''

* ERA plates are 13 mm thick

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

{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,302|rbMinHp=743|abMaxHp=2,156|rbMaxHp=1,130|AoAweight=1}}

The T-72B3 has the same mobility and manoeuvrability as past T-72B series with its V-84 engine. However, once the UBH package is installed, it has greater mobility compared to previous T-72 series tanks as it has an increase in horsepower thanks to the V-92S2F engine. Compared to its more expensive and gas turbine-equipped counterpart, the T-80U, the T-72B3 has worse mobility and manoeuvrability even with the UBH package. The T-72B3 has mediocre speed and overall mobility compared to NATO tanks which is compensated with armour and low profile. With its powerful engine, the T-72B3 is able to pull and push enemy tanks with ease (winching them is recommended to activate the tank corpse track movement as they will not move if no cable is attached)

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

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

{{main|2A46M-5 (125 mm)}}

The T-72B3 has access to the 2A46M-5 125 mm smoothbore main gun. This gun is nothing new in the Russian MBT tree and fires the same ammunition as seen in previous models (darts vary from the T-72A to the rest of the T-72 and T-90 tanks). This can be considered as a pro as all rounds have same handling between series. As all T-72Bs, they are able to fire the 9M119 ATGM from the main gun. However, the T-72B3 has access to the 9M119M1, a modernized 9M119 with a tandem charge but slightly reduced flight speed. The 2E58 gun control system was also adopted, which greatly boosts the gun traverse speed to a whopping 40° in both horizontal and vertical directions.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[2A46M-5 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46M-5]] || 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" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 38.1 || 52.7 || 64.0 || 70.8 || 75.3 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
The T-72B3 has access to the same ammunition shown in previous T-72Bs. All are capable rounds which are not new and have same handling.

''HEAT-FS:''

The 3BK18M is the first round the T-72B3, as the previous T-72Bs, has access to, it can be considered a mediocre round as most of the enemies which will be faced will be able to withstand it due to composite armour. However, it is particularly useful when facing light armoured vehicles which are prompt to overpressure (SPAA, light tanks, etc) and useful when facing enemy helicopters as it has enough explosive mass and flight speed to be competitive as a last resort. As a hollow charge, it is prompt to detonate mid-air due to trees, bushes and fences. This makes the round difficult to use when in long range engagements as some field elements (forage, objects, etc.) may not be rendered and the round's velocity make aiming harder.

''APFSDS:''

The T-72B3 has access to 2 types of APFSDS: the 3BM42 and 3BM60. The 3BM42 is a decent round with decent penetration and stopping power. While it lacks penetration to penetrate Leopard 2 tanks upper frontal plate, Leclerc's lower frontal plate or M1A1/2 turret plates, it has enough penetration to hit and cause critical damage in weakspots and side shots. 3BM60 however, has much more penetration which can penetrate all tanks from all sides.

''ATGM:''

The 9M119M1 is a tandem version of the previously seen 9M119 SACLOS ATGM in past T-72s. The main upgrade is the tandem charge, everything else remains practically the same with exception of reduction of flight speed.

{{:2A46M-5 (125 mm)/Ammunition|3BK18M, 3OF26, 3BM42, 9M119M1, 3BM60}}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_T-72B.png|right|thumb|x450px|[[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''45''' || 41 ''(+4)'' || 34 ''(+11)'' || 22 ''(+23)'' || 0 ''(+45)'' || No
|-
|}

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

{{main|6P49 (12.7 mm)|PKT (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[6P49 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm 6P49]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 300 (150) || 700 || -4°/+75° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[PKT (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm PKT]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 2,000 (250) || 700 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

''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).''

'''Enemies worth noting:'''

* [[M1A1 HC]]/[[M1A1 AIM]]/[[M1A2 Abrams|M1A2]]/[[M1A2 SEP]] Abrams: Turret frontal plates are very strong, unless angled within 45° and using 3BM60.
* [[Leopard 2A5]]/[[Leopard 2A6]]/[[Leopard 2A6 (Sweden)]]: UFP and turret frontal plates can only be penetrated by 3BM60. Turret wedges should be blown out first in order to penetrate the turret frontal plate.
* [[Strv 122A]]/[[Strv 122B PLSS]]: UFP impenetrable by 3BM42 unless MEXAS armour package is destroyed. Turret wedges should be blown out first in order to penetrate the turret frontal plate.
* [[Leclerc]]/[[Leclerc S2]]/[[Leclerc SXXI]]: OFL 120 F1 has enough armour penetration to penetrate T-72B3's frontal plates even after the ERA effect, though they can also destroyed with any of the available munitions in return.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Has access to 2nd generation thermals for the gunner
* Decent side armour with the UBH package, the 4S24 ERA can stop HEAT rounds and ATGMs from the side.
** UBH package also upgrades the engine for better mobility
* Decent turret protection, made even better with the UBH upgrade
* Good selection of shells, including APFSDS, HEAT-FS, HE, and Tandem ATGMs
* Autoloader carousel is located lower on the hull, making it difficult to hit from distance
* Excellent gun handling

'''Cons:'''

* High risk of ammo rack detonation
* Obvious weak spot on the right side of the turret face without the UBH upgrade (where the IR searchlight used to be on the T-72B 1989)
* Small size means crew is packed tightly together, an penetrating shell often takes it out in one shot.
* Turret ring and gun mantlet are still the biggest weak spots
* Slow reverse speed
* Stock mobility is a huge disadvantage when facing other top tier tanks, speed tops at around 35 km/h in rough terrain, although it improves massively when fully upgraded
* Hull armor and ERA might not be able to stand up to top APFSDS rounds up close
* Rather slow reload

== History ==

The T-72B3 is a modernized version of the [[T-72 (Family)|T-72]] main battle tank, which was originally developed by the Soviet Union in the 1970s. The T-72 has seen extensive combat use around the world, and is considered to be one of the most prolific tanks in history.

The T-72B3 was developed by the Russian military in the early 2010s, in response to the need for a more modern and capable tank. The upgrade program focused on improving the tank's firepower, mobility, and protection, and included a number of significant changes to the vehicle.

One of the most notable improvements was the addition of the new [[2A46M-5 (125 mm)|2A46M-5]] smoothbore gun, which is capable of firing a variety of different types of ammunition, including high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT), armor-piercing fin-stabilized discarding sabot (APFSDS), and high-explosive fragmentation (HE-FRAG) rounds.

The T-72B3 also features an upgraded fire control system, which includes a new laser rangefinder and a ballistic computer. This system allows the tank to accurately engage targets at long ranges, even when the tank is moving.

In addition to these improvements, the T-72B3 features a number of new armor upgrades, including reactive armor panels and an improved composite armor package. These upgrades provide the tank with increased protection against both kinetic energy penetrators and shaped charge warheads.

The tank's engine and transmission were also upgraded, providing improved mobility and power. The T-72B3 can reach speeds of up to 60 km/h on roads, and has a range of approximately 500 km.

The T-72B3 has been in service with the Russian military since 2013, and has seen combat use in Syria and Ukraine. The tank has been praised for its effectiveness in combat, with its upgraded armor and firepower allowing it to engage and destroy a variety of targets.

Despite its upgrades, the T-72B3 has also faced criticism for its continued reliance on older technology, such as its relatively primitive autoloader and lack of advanced sensors and communications equipment.

In response to these criticisms, the Russian military has continued to develop new upgrades for the T-72 series, including the T-72B4, which features improved communications and navigation equipment, and the T-72B5, which features even more advanced armor and a new unmanned turret.

Overall, the T-72B3 is a significant improvement over the original T-72, and has proven to be a capable and effective tank in combat. While it may not be the most advanced tank in the world, it remains an important part of the Russian military's armored forces, and will likely continue to see service for many years to come.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ussr_t_72b3_2011 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Images
<gallery mode="packed" caption="T-72B3 Devblog Images" heights="150">
File:T-72B3 WTWallpaper 002.jpg|
File:T-72B3 WTWallpaper 004.jpg|
File:T-72B3 WTWallpaper 005.jpg|
</gallery>

<gallery mode="packed" caption="T-72B3 UBH (Modification) Devblog Images" heights="150">
File:T-72B3 WTWallpaper 001.jpg|
File:T-72B3 WTWallpaper 003.jpg|
File:T-72B3 WTWallpaper 006.jpg|
</gallery>

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|srKv5v9zoGA|'''The Shooting Range #216''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:28 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}

== 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/6830-development-new-t-72-modifications-here-come-the-top-of-the-line-russians-en|[Devblog] New T-72 modifications: here come the top-of-the-line Russians!]]

{{USSR medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

Tank ammunition

2022-04-26T17:28:13Z

U8359201: Added the Top-Down attack missile variant.

Throughout the past century of tank development, a large range of ammunition types have been produced and seen combat. As time progressed, technology improved and rounds also improved in terms of lethality, accuracy and ballistic performance. Despite this, most rounds can be categorised under one of two primary categories: '''kinetic''' rounds and '''chemical''' rounds; and further under a variety of subcategories.

== Kinetic energy shells ==
'''Kinetic rounds''' penetrate and deal damage based on a number of factors; shell type, projectile mass, round velocity and material hardness. Mass, shell type and hardness are constants, but velocity reduces with distance travelled and as such at longer ranges kinetic rounds will lose penetration ability and in some cases post-penetration efficacy. Most kinetic rounds can hit targets through lighter obstacles - trees, walls and some buildings. Under the right circumstances, solid kinetic rounds can penetrate multiple vehicles along their trajectory.

=== Solid Armour-Piercing Rounds ===
Solid AP rounds are a kinetic munition that utilise a hardened metal (often steel) shell with full-calibre diameter. The result is a simple, yet effective anti-tank round that will punch through armour with high equivalent thickness values, while retaining reasonable post-penetration effects which, when well-placed, can deal significant internal damage to components and crew directly within the shrapnelling path. The amount of spalling generated by a successful AP penetration depends on the shell mass and thickness of the penetrated armour and modules. Generally, solid AP does not stop until it has exhausted all of its force and is capable of passing through an entire vehicle if this energy is not fully expended.
==== Armour-Piercing (AP) ====
[[File:Icon rnd ap.png|left|frameless]] Armour-Piercing is a basic solid steel shot which is entirely reliant on kinetic energy to penetrate and deal damage. Providing the round possesses enough energy to penetrate any given armour, it will deal internal damage from steel fragments and spalling of the internal surfaces which can damage vehicle components, stored ammunition and crew members.

''AP is a standard early World War II ammunition for many nations. In War Thunder, AP rounds should be used as a general use anti-armour round, with careful round placement to maximise post-penetration damage. Some nations, such as the British, have modified versions of AP, usually denoted by a "HV" in the name, which is launched at a higher velocity than standard AP rounds, resulting in higher penetration potential.''

==== Armour-Piercing, Capped (APC) ====
[[File:Icon rnd apc.png|left|frameless]] APC rounds have a nose cone (or cap) of softer metal which is fixed to the front of the solid shot. When this strikes the target armour the shock of the impact is transferred away from the tip of the round to the neck, helping prevent shattering. Additionally, the cap will collapse on contact with armour and the deformation will cause the round to angle towards the armour, more efficiently directing energy into the armour and improving the angled performance of the round. A downside of the cap is a decrease in long-range accuracy due to the cap interfering with the shell's aerodynamics.
[[File:APC Normalization.gif|thumb|Display of shell normalization as an effect of a capped (APC) shell (clickable gif)]]

''APC is commonly found as a mid-tier shell for both the British and French on their mid-to-late WW2 vehicles. In War Thunder, APC is best used as a short-to-mid range round for combatting angled armour that regular AP rounds may not easily penetrate.''

==== Armour-Piercing, Ballistic Capped (APBC) ====
[[File:Icon rnd apbc.png|left|frameless]] APBC rounds utilise a ballistic cap, designed to improve aerodynamic performance and hence round performance at longer ranges. The cap usually utilises a soft or brittle metal which collapses on impact and does not aid penetration or angled performance.

''APBC is found on some early Soviet vehicles, but is relatively uncommon otherwise compared to APCBC. In War Thunder, APBC is best used as a longer-range alternative to APC or APHE rounds which often exhibit less favourable ranged performance.''

==== Armour-Piercing, Capped, Ballistic Capped (APCBC) ====
[[File:Icon rnd apcbc.png|left|frameless]] APCBC rounds combine the standard cap and the ballistic cap, improving the round's aerodynamic and penetration performance. As such, APCBC rounds tend to exhibit the best all-round characteristics of any conventional kinetic rounds.

''APCBC is a common shell for British, French and American mid-to-late WW2 vehicles. US rounds usually have explosive filler, acting like an APHEBC shell, while British and French rounds don't. The APCBC should be the preferred option given a selection of full-calibre solid shot rounds, when available, and should be situationally switched for APHE rounds when they're available.''

=== HE-Filled Armour-Piercing Rounds ===
HE-Filled Armour-Piercing Rounds take the concept of armour-piercing rounds and add a deadly twist - a quantity of HE filler on a timed fuse, designed to explode after a successful penetration. While the concept sacrifices some structural integrity and thus penetrating power, the destructive ability of an APHE round is nearly unrivalled. The fuse only activates if the shell collides with a surface of reasonable thickness, mostly dictated by shell caliber - though there are exceptions with a slower or faster fuse. After the fuse activates, the contained explosive will be ignited after passing a specified distance, resulting in significantly increased internal damage to a target. Vehicles with rolled homogeneous armour side skirts of reasonable thickness can detonate fast fuse APHE early, sometime avoiding internal damage entirely. Tanks with large or numerous modules directly behind weak spots (for example, front-mounted transmissions) can block the entire round from further penetration, or simply block the post-penetration effect from passing. Keep this in mind, and try to aim for locations that will allow detonation as centrally within the target as possible.

==== Armour-Piercing, High-Explosive (APHE) ====
[[File:Icon rnd aphe.png|left|frameless]] APHE rounds utilise a similar form to AP rounds, but incorporate a small chamber of high-explosive filler within the round. This often slightly reduces the round's mass and construction strength and as such APHE rounds tend to exhibit slightly worse penetration performance than their solid shot counterparts. However, upon successful penetration, APHE rounds often cause significantly more damage within a vehicle. APHE rounds have a fuse which will only activate on sufficiently thick armour.

''APHE is primarily found on Soviet, German and Japanese vehicles earlier in the tech tree, and on a selection of earlier American vehicles. It should be prioritised for use when penetration is highly likely, or switched for AP or APCR if improved penetration is required.''

==== Armour-Piercing, High-Explosive, Ballistic Capped (APHEBC) ====
[[File:Icon rnd aphebc.png|left|frameless]] APHEBC rounds, similarly to APHE, utilise APBC concepts with the addition of high-explosive filler. Again, the rounds tend to exhibit slightly worse penetrative performance than their solid shot brethren, but significantly more post-penetration damage. APHEBC rounds have a fuse which will only activate on sufficiently thick armour.

''APHEBC is primarily found on Soviet and Italian vehicles earlier in the tech tree as a mid-tier round, and on some American and German vehicles. It's ideally used against targets where angled performance is required and HE filler is preferable.''

==== Armour-Piercing, High-Explosive, Capped, Ballistic Capped (APHECBC) ====
[[File:Icon rnd aphecbc.png|left|frameless]] APHECBC rounds utilise standard APCBC designs with added explosive filler. APHECBC is often referred to as APCBC in-game, and can be identified instead by the graphic or the explosive filler content on the round's stat card. As with other APHE rounds, APHECBC significantly improves the post-penetration lethality over that of a standard APCBC round. APHECBC rounds have a fuse which will only activate on sufficiently thick armour.

''APHECBC is found throughout the Soviet tech tree as a high-tier round, and on some Japanese, American and German vehicles. APHECBC should be used preferentially and interchangeably with a high-penetration round where available.''

==== Anti-Concrete (AC) ====
[[File:Icon_rnd_ac.png|left|54px|frameless]] AC rounds are designed as an anti-emplacement ammunition. Their intended role was to penetrate reinforced concrete and detonate inside the fortified positions (bunkers, pillboxes). It works like an APHE round but has an atypically high explosive filler capable of causing overpressure and severe spalling.

''The Anti-Concrete round is found on KV-2 heavy tanks and can be used like an APHE round.''

=== Sub-Calibre Armour-Piercing Rounds ===
Sub-Calibre AP rounds are, essentially, what they say on the label - the penetrator itself is of a smaller calibre than the gun barrel, using a sabot to make up the calibre difference. How the sabot is handled is dependent on the type of round - it may be either discarding or non-discarding. Sub-calibre rounds sacrifice post-penetration effectiveness for high round velocities and high penetration values.

==== Armour-Piercing, Composite, Rigid (APCR) ====
[[File:Icon rnd apcr.png|left|frameless]] APCR rounds often use tungsten carbide or other extremely hard metals as a sub-calibre penetrator, wrapped within a softer full-calibre sabot - the APCR concept is essentially a predecessor to the APDS design. Upon impact, the soft shell will deform, allowing the hard metal penetrator contained within to penetrate the target's armour with force spread over a smaller surface area, resulting in significantly better penetration ability. APCR rounds often suffer due to their more concentrated post-penetration damage, as well as faster penetration drop-off over range than a standard AP round of the same calibre. Due to their design, APCR perform extremely poorly when fired upon angled armour, and will ricochet on much smaller angles than AP or APDS.

''APCR is found throughout most tech trees, most commonly available to vehicles from mid-WW2 through to early cold war vehicles. APCR rounds are best used against minimally angled armour, where other rounds will be unable to penetrate.''

==== Armour-Piercing, Discarding Sabot (APDS) ====
[[File:Icon rnd apds.png|left|frameless]] APDS rounds utilise a hard core as a sub-calibre penetrator, with a full calibre sabot. Unlike APCR rounds, APDS rounds discard their sabot after exiting the cannon barrel. The result is an extremely high-velocity round with particularly high penetration values and good ranged accuracy. Unlike APCR, APDS does not suffer when used against angled armour. APDS produces a minimal amount of post-penetration damage - this can be attributed to the shell degradation the thicker the armour it has to penetrate. The thicker the armour, the more it deteriorates and the less spalling it will cause. Once the round deteriorates far enough, it will shatter. This is especially apparent for small-calibre APDS, or when used against some extremely heavy vehicles. Due to this, careful aim is required when utilising APDS rounds to maximise their post-penetration effect.

''APDS is first made available on post-WW2 British vehicles as well as Swedish WW2 vehicles such as the [[Lago I]], and is available to most vehicles in possession of a [[Royal Ordnance L7A1 (105 mm)|105 mm L7]]-derived cannon. In War Thunder, APDS is best used as a long-range round, with multiple shots often being a necessity due to the lack of post-penetration damage. APDS can be quite ineffective against lightly-armoured vehicles and the frontal armour of super heavy tanks.''

==== Armour-Piercing, Fin-Stabilised, Discarding Sabot (APFSDS) ====
[[File:Icon rnd apfsds.png|left|frameless]] APFSDS is the pinnacle of the kinetic anti-armour rounds. As with APDS, APFSDS utilises an extremely hard penetrator and a discarding sabot, however the penetrator is usually significantly longer than that of APDS and incorporates fins for improved long-range ballistics. The additional penetrator length improves the post-penetration damage effects. APFSDS rounds are the most powerful kinetic rounds available in-game.

''APFSDS is first made available to some late Rank V vehicles, and is rarely the primary round for most Rank VI or VII vehicles. Due to the extremely high velocity most APFSDS rounds are fired at, they are easy to aim and maintain their effective performance at even extreme ranges. APFSDS is quite ineffective against lightly-armoured vehicles and should be aimed at critical components to maximise their damage potential.''

== Chemical energy shells ==
'''Chemical energy shells''' deal damage based on a chemical reaction, and unlike kinetic shells, their ability to penetrate and deal damage are unaffected by the shell's velocity. This means that target distance often doesn't affect the round's effectiveness. However, this also means that enemy tanks spaced and composite armour can be much more effective at preventing the damage, depending on the shell type used. Many chemical shells utilise extremely sensitive fuses and will detonate upon touching anything, while almost none of them can be fired through solid obstacles. Many chemical rounds have a very low muzzle velocity, reducing their effective range but allowing the user to launch them over terrain.

=== High-Explosive Rounds ===
High-Explosive rounds are a simple shell packed full of a high-explosive material, primarily designed for anti-infantry and anti-emplacement applications. However, this translates surprisingly well when applied to light vehicles - significantly more so than armour-piercing rounds or in some cases even APHE rounds. Unfortunately, most HE-based rounds are relatively useless against well-armoured vehicles and force their user to target flaws in an enemy tank design.

==== High-Explosive (HE) ====
[[File:Icon rnd he.png|left|frameless]] High-Explosive rounds are primarily intended for use as an anti-infantry/anti-emplacement round. As such, HE rounds tend to have minimal armour-piercing capability and are better used against particularly lightly armoured vehicles, although on occasion it can prove effective against the sides of a vehicle. Particularly high-calibre HE rounds may cause enough area damage to destroy a tank regardless of the round placement.

''HE rounds are available to almost every vehicle in-game. However, low-calibre HE rounds are ineffective against all but the most lightly armoured targets, so this type of round should only be utilised by vehicles with large-calibre guns, such as the [[KV-2]] or [[Sturmpanzer II]].''

==== High-Explosive Time Fuse (HE-TF) ====
[[File:Icon rnd hevt.png|left|frameless]] HE-TF rounds use the simple concept of a timed fuse, resulting in an explosion at a pre-set range. While HE-TF rounds are no more effective than HE rounds against most heavy armour, they can be particularly effective against light vehicles with a known range or against aircraft (one of their original design uses).

''HE-TF rounds are available to a number of vehicles originally designed for anti-air purposes, such as the [[YaG-10 (29-K)]] and the [[8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl.]]. They're best used against aircraft by rangefinding the aircraft in question, setting the fuse range to a reasonable assumption based on the result and leading sensibly. They can be extremely effective against aircraft if used correctly, but are mostly ineffective against armoured vehicles.''

==== High-Explosive Variable Time Fuse [Self-Destroying] (HE-VT*) ====
[[File:Icon rnd he prx.png|left|frameless]] HE-VT rounds are an advanced round fitted with a specialised proximity fuse, designed to detonate the round upon reaching close proximity with a target. These are usually designed for anti-air applications, and are generally ineffective against most ground targets.

''HE-VT rounds are available to some later anti-air vehicles, such as the [[OTOMATIC]], or some light tanks, like the [[Begleitpanzer 57]], and are capable of destroying aircraft or helicopters if the round passes within close proximity of the target. They are extremely effective against mid-ranged aircraft but cannot be relied upon for use against armour.''

==== High-Explosive Grenade ====
[[File:Icon grn he.png|left|frameless]] HE Grenades are specialised HE rounds designed to be fired from cannons which may not be otherwise capable of firing high-calibre rounds. They usually operate in a different manner to conventional cannon rounds, utilising a propellant rather than a charge, resulting in a relatively low round velocity and sub-par ballistics. However, this design has proven useful, as the low velocity can be used to sling rounds over small terrain deformations, onto weak roof armour, or into trenches or bunkers.

''HE Grenades are available to vehicles with recoilless cannon designs or other non-standard cannon designs. They are generally as effective as an equivalent HE round, however have significantly lower muzzle velocity and as such are extremely inaccurate at long ranges. HE Grenades are found on various vehicles, such as the [[BMP-1]].''

==== Anti-Personnel Fragmentation Grenade (VOG) ====
[[File:Icon rnd VOG-30.png|left|frameless|54x54px]]
Anti-Personnel Fragmentation Grenades are grenades intended for use against infantry; they use a lightweight explosive charge alongside a thin casing to produce a large lethal radius via shrapnel.

''The [[BMP-2M]] is equipped with an automatic grenade launcher. VOGs are useful as a substitute to pintle-mounted machine guns, able to destroy terrain elements like bushes, trees, and buildings. They are almost completely ineffective against tanks, lacking the required explosive filler and muzzle velocity.''

==== Rocket (R) ====
[[File:Icon spr rocket.png|left|frameless]] Rockets are unguided high-explosive self-propelled rounds which are often significantly higher calibre than standard tank cannons. They can be mounted as ancillary weaponry on some vehicles, or in some cases mounted on specialised rocket-carrier vehicles.

''Rockets can be unreliable and inaccurate, but due to their often large calibre, large amount of HE filler, and ability to continuously launch them until the ammo rack is empty, they can prove effective against some armoured vehicles. Rockets are either mounted ancillary, as on the [[RBT-5]], [[Calliope]], [[Cromwell V (RP-3)]], [[M26 T99]], or on rocket carriers such as the [[BM-8-24]], [[BM-13N]], [[15 cm Pz.W.42]], [[U-SH 405]], and [[Type 75 MLRS]].''

=== Anti-Emplacement Rounds ===
Anti-Emplacement rounds are designed specifically for combatting emplacements, however have proven to have some anti-tank value. They rely on different mechanics compared to normal rounds*, and can prove particularly ineffective against heavy armour.

==== Shrapnel ====
[[File:Shrapnel Round Icon.png|left|frameless]] Shrapnel rounds are a chemical round utilising a thin shell and a chamber of metal fillings or ball bearings with a small explosive charge. Upon successful penetration, shrapnel rounds cause a significant amount of damage. However, due to the thin outer shell, shrapnel rounds only perform well against particularly light armour and are completely ineffective when used against even moderately armoured targets.

''Shrapnel rounds are available exclusively to early Soviet vehicles. Shrapnel is exclusively useful against lightly armoured targets, and shouldn't be used against front-facing armour of any other tank.''

==== High-Explosive Squash Head (HESH) ====
[[File:Icon rnd hesh.png|left|frameless]] HESH rounds are designed as an anti-emplacement round. The squash head, usually comprised of some form of plastic explosive, is designed to squash onto a surface and detonate, causing the opposite side of the surface to rupture. If the given surface happens to be metal, this will often result in metal shards flying off the surface at high velocity. While in the past, HESH rounds have had improved performance on angled targets, their performance is now completely uniform at all ranges and angles. Recently due to the advent of "[[Damage mechanics#Overpressure|Overpressure]]", HESH has benefited an increase in performance and increased lethality, even when failing to hit the target directly. HESH also has relatively low fuse sensitivity, therefore it can be launched through some foliage and weak obstacles without detonating, unlike HE or HEAT.

''HESH rounds are available to most British vehicles from Rank V, and other vehicles in possession of an L7-derived gun. HESH should be primarily used against lighter armour or side armour, while specifically avoiding side skirts and any other forms of spaced armour, although occasionally the HE splash effect can cause unexpected results. HESH is completely ineffective against heavy armour or composite armour designs.''

=== High-Explosive Anti-Tank Rounds ===
High-Explosive Anti-Tank (HEAT) rounds make use of shaped charges to penetrate armour, forcing superplastic metal through into the crew compartment, damaging crew and modules. HEAT rounds prove particularly effective at long ranges, as their method of action does not lose effectiveness with range. Unfortunately though, the fuse on a HEAT round must be extremely sensitive, causing the rounds to detonate even on bushes and wooden fences that other chemical rounds of high calibre have a chance to pass through. All HEAT-derived rounds have concentrated post-penetration damage, similar to APDS, which travels in a tight cone from the impact point. This often works in favor of the shell when a direct hit is achieved, in some cases allowing it to burn through modules such as frontally-mounted transmissions, dealing further damage to the vehicle's internals. This same effect can prove troublesome when a round collides on a sub-par angle or after penetration there's simply nothing within its cone of effect.

==== High-Explosive, Anti-tank (HEAT) ====
[[File:Icon rnd heat.png|left|frameless]] HEAT rounds are designed specifically as an anti-tank round. They operate with a shaped charge that uses an explosive to force superplastic metal through a vehicle's armour, causing internal damage to crew and modules.

''HEAT rounds are available to a variety of WW2 German and Japanese vehicles, as well as higher-performance HEAT becoming available to some late French and American vehicles, as HEATFS rounds cannot be fired from rifled cannons. HEAT is limited in effectiveness and its usage should be carefully considered as many vehicles have armour it cannot penetrate. Due to its low velocity, HEAT often requires a high angle of attack and will arrive at a target on an angle - as such the often impressive 0° penetration statistics will often prove irrelevant, with angled penetration values being more accurate.''

==== High-Explosive, Anti-Tank, Fin-Stabilized (HEATFS) ====
[[File:Icon rnd heatfs.png|left|frameless]] HEATFS rounds are an improvement over the HEAT concept, using improved penetrative chemicals and utilising fins for improved ballistic performance. HEATFS rounds maintain their penetration values at all ranges, and are well-suited to long-range engagements. HEATFS rounds are particularly sensitive, and may detonate on light obstacles such as shrubs or fences.

''HEATFS rounds become available to many nations from Rank V, although notably the British do not receive HEATFS at any stage due to its incompatibility with rifled cannons. At late Rank VI and Rank VII, HEATFS may prove ineffective in many cases due to the prevalence of ERA and composite armour. Despite this, it can still be used for ranged engagements against light tanks and medium tanks with insufficient ERA or composite protection, as particularly late HEATFS rounds have extremely high penetration power. High-calibre HEATFS rounds will cripple light tanks, while APFSDS is not as effective at it.''

==== High-Explosive, Anti-Tank, Fin-Stabilised, Proximity Fuse [Self-Destroying] (HEATFS VT*) ====
[[File:Icon rnd heatfs.png|left|frameless]]HEATFS VT rounds are specialised HEATFS rounds which utilise a proximity fuse to detonate when in close proximity to a target. They can be used to destroy low-flying aircraft or helicopters, while maintaining their effectiveness against ground vehicles utilising normal HEATFS technology.

''HEATFS VT rounds are extremely specialised. They are available to only the [[M1A2 Abrams]] and have an identical icon to the standard HEATFS. They combine the anti-armour power of a standard HEATFS round with the anti-aircraft effectiveness of a HE-VT round. Their proximity fuse will detonate only above a specified altitude, so they can be used normally against other armoured vehicles.''

==== High-Explosive, Anti-Tank Grenade ====
[[File:Icon grn heat.png|left|frameless]] HEAT Grenades are specialised HEAT rounds, designed for use where normal tank rounds may not be possible to utilise. They often use a propellant rather than a standard charge, and as such suffer from low velocity and sub-par round ballistics. Despite this, they can prove effective against tanks due to their HEAT technology.

''HEAT Grenades are available to vehicles with recoilless cannons or other non-standard cannon designs. Their effectiveness is similar to that of an equivalent HEAT round, however due to their low muzzle velocity they can be inaccurate at long ranges. HEAT Grenades are found on various light vehicles, such as the [[M50]], [[T114]], [[Type 60 SPRG (C)]], [[FIAT 6614]], [[R3 T106 FA]], and [[BMP-1 (Family)]].''

=== Guided Missiles ===
Guided missiles utilise a guidance system (of various types, such as MCLOS, SACLOS, Radar, Heat-Seeking) to accomplish their intended role. They sacrifice round velocity for long-range precision. Different missile types are effective in different applications - some have anti-tank properties, while others are effective against air targets.

==== Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) ====
{{main|Anti-tank guided missiles}}
[[File:Icon spr atgm.png|left|frameless]] ATGMs largely utilise the same concept as HEAT, however they integrate some form of propulsion and are usually guideable, either manually (MCLOS) or semi-automatically (SACLOS). ATGMs usually pack a large amount of explosive and often have particularly powerful shaped charges. However, they require specialised equipment to fire and tend to be heavy, often resulting in long reload times, especially for hybrid vehicles.

''ATGMs become available through Rank V, and are primarily carried by specialised ATGM carriers, although some tanks have ATGM-capable main cannons and some exceptional designs such as the [[Strv 81 (Rb.52)]] or the [[AMX-13 (HOT)]] mount ATGMs on ancillary pylons. ATGMs are powerful and SACLOS guided missiles are easily aimed, however they travel slowly and well-aware targets may be able to move into cover prior to the ATGM reaching them.''

==== '''Anti-Tank Guided Missile, Top''' Down Attack (ATGM-TD) ====
[[File:Icon spr atgm.png|left|frameless]]This missile's icon is the same as the normal ATGM, but it's mechanism is completely different. It uses a proximity fuse to detonate '''above''' enemy tanks, sending their HEAT warhead right into the target's roof. Though this missile's penetration is rather low in the stats card, players should not be afraid to use it, as it can defeat literally any tank in the game so far. An interesting fact about it is that most of the times, kills with this missile don't come from the HEAT warhead, but from the overpressure effect, after all, it's like a giant HE round detonating on top of tanks!

''At the time of the writing, the TOW-2B (and foreign variants with different names) is the only top-down attack missile in'' ''the game. It is carried by specialized ATGM carriers, like the [[Wiesel 1A2]] or the [[M113 (Family)|M113]], exception being made only to the [[M3A3 Bradley]] and [[Dardo]] IFVs, which carry it too as a secondary weapon. Players should try to aim the missile about 1 meter above the target, as higher may result in little to no damage, and lower in the missile detonating too early and, again, causing little to no damage.''

==== Anti-Tank Guided Missile, Proximity Fuse [Self-Destroying] (ATGM-VT*) ====
[[File:Icon spr atgm prx.png|left|frameless]] Proximity ATGMs utilise proximity fuses to detonate when in close proximity to aircraft. This, combined with their guidance systems (SACLOS) allows them to be used effectively against low-flying aircraft or helicopters.

''Proximity Fuse ATGMs can prove extremely effective against low-flying aircraft or helicopters, and utilise a similar proximity fuse concept to SAM missiles - although often ATGMs pack significantly more HE filler than SAMs do. ATGM-VT missiles are available to specialised ATGM carriers such as the [[Shturm-S]].''

==== Anti-Tank Guided Missile, Tandem Charge (ATGM Tandem) ====
[[File:Icon spr atgm tandem.png|left|frameless]] Tandem ATGMs utilise a twin-stage warhead to overcome ERA - the first stage causes the ERA to detonate, while the second stage penetrates the armour below as normal. This concept does not work against NERA or composite armour.

''Tandem ATGMs are effective against ERA-protected vehicles, and often have very high penetration values. Tandem charge ATGMs are available to high-rank Soviet or Russian ATGM carriers such as the [[Shturm-S]] and [[BMP-3]].''

==== Anti-Tank Guided Missile, HE (ATGM-HE) ====
[[File:Icon spr atgm he.png|left|frameless]] HE ATGMs are a simplification of a standard ATGM; rather than a shaped HEAT charge, HE missiles simply utilise a large quantity of explosive to damage or destroy emplacements or light vehicles or other ATGM tanks.

''HE ATGMs are only effective against light vehicles and missile carriers in most cases, despite packing large quantities of HE filler. They are available to specialised ATGM carriers such as the [[Shturm-S]].''

==== Surface to Air Missile (SAM) ====
[[File:Icon spr sam.png|left|frameless]] SAMs are high-velocity anti-air missiles, designed specifically to combat aircraft using a variety of technologies; often including proximity fuses and radar or heat-seeking guidance.

''SAMs are very effective at long distances against aircraft, particularly helicopters. They are often extremely high velocity and pack a large amount of HE filler for a powerful airburst effect. SAMs are available to specialised anti-air vehicles such as the [[ZPRK 2S6|2S6 Tunguska]] or the [[ADATS]], which, notably, has multi-purpose missiles that are also effective against armoured vehicles. Most SAMs pack less HE filler than an HE ATGM and are only reliably effective against lightly armoured ground vehicles.''

=== Utility Rounds ===
Utility rounds are ineffective for use against other vehicles, but provide value in some sort of utility.

==== Smoke ====
{{main|Smoke screen|l1=Smoke}}
[[File:Icon rnd smoke.png|left|frameless]] Smoke shells are not designed as a damaging shell, and largely consist of chemicals designed to create a smoke screen. The produced smoke has a limited lifetime.

''Smoke shells are available to various vehicles throughout most tech trees, however their effectiveness is somewhat limited compared to dedicated smoke launchers. The main advantage of smoke shells is that unlike ESS or hull-mounted smoke canisters, they can be launched anywhere the equipped vehicle can aim, allowing for strategic placement for pushes or flanking manoeuvres, or simply firing at an enemy vehicle to force them to move from their position.''

== Media ==


;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|TQEq6hjxGdM|'''The Shooting Range #292''' - ''Tactics & Strategy'' section at 07:52 discusses playing HE wielders.|srKv5v9zoGA|'''The Shooting Range #216''' - ''Special'' section at 08:28 discusses Volumetric rounds.|CZqzMhbnvO4|'''Tank Shells Guide''' - War Thunder Official Channel|Qyr_aw3YTe8|'''The Shooting Range #2''' - ''Science of War'' section at 05:11 discusses HESH rounds.|6O3MBjdSsIk|'''Tank Shells Guide - War Thunder ammo types explained''' - ''HowToPlay1337''|ajeqij4_jwM|'''Ammo Types in War Thunder EXPLAINED''' - ''skDoger''|_xCgMBOiA8U|'''High-explosive power''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|lK9Ck3P6AvM|'''Top 7 best rounds''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|fCc_B-wm0wA|'''Post-War Heat Shells''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


* [[Ammo racks]] - How all tank ammunition is stored within the tank

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7084-development-new-features-upcoming-with-the-ixwa-strike-update-en|[Devblog] New features upcoming with the "Ixwa Strike" update - Shell impact animations]]
* [[wt:en/news/6856-development-volumetric-shells-in-the-raining-fire-update-en|[Devblog] Volumetric shells in the "Raining Fire" update]]

[[Category:Ammunition]]

MiG-23MF (Germany)

2022-02-27T01:11:11Z

U8359201: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = MiG-23 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_23mf_germany
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
|cockpit=cockpit_mig_23mf_germany.jpg
|market=id50161_mig_23mf_germany
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift rank {{Specs|rank}} German jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Winged Lions"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/7469-event-operation-w-i-n-t-e-r-en|2021 Operation W.I.N.T.E.R.]] event.

The MiG-23MF is an export modification of the Soviet [[MiG-23M]]. In this modification, the avionics were changed in favour of more budgetary and somewhat simplified systems. The MiG-23MF was delivered to all the main countries of the Warsaw Pact, as well as to the Arab states of the Middle East, Africa, India and Cuba.

The MIG-23MF inherits all the main characteristics from the original - good top speed, a very good climb rate, a variable sweep wing and a large array of weaponry. The disadvantages also remained: a limited number of countermeasures, a limited number of weapon suspension nodes and rather mediocre manoeuvrability at transonic speeds.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 13,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,339 || 2,329 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.6 || 35.6 || 147.4 || 140.4 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,380 || 2,358 || 34.5 || 35.0 || 194.4 || 170.0
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1470  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 665 || < 650 || < 700 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-29-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,155 kg || colspan="3" | 395 - 445 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,367 kg || 13,462 kg || 14,615 kg || 15,195 kg || 18,400 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,494 kgf
| 0.85 || 0.78 || 0.72 || 0.69 || 0.57
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,987 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.05 || 0.96 || 0.89 || 0.85 || 0.71
|-
|}

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

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

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

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

{{main|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 12 x countermeasures

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

{{main|OFAB-100 (100 kg)|FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)}}
{{main|R-3S|R-13M1|R-23R|R-23T|R-60MK}}
{{main|Kh-23M|S-5K|S-24B}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,300 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-60MK missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (800 kg total)
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-60MK missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 64 x S-5K rockets (500 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 4 x R-3S missiles
* 2 x R-3S missiles + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60MK missiles + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60MK missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 4 x R-60MK missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 4 x R-13M1 missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 6 x R-60MK missiles
* 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-23T missiles
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 96 x S-5K rockets
* 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles

== Usage in battles ==


'''Air battles'''

Low altitude, high speed, side of the map. Try to get as much speed as possible maintaining a very low altitude and go to the right if you want a more head-on engagement or to the left if you want a side/back of the enemy attack position (in a majority of maps players go to their left). Better used with a squadron, the MiG-23MF can eliminate several enemy aircraft if played right with 3 teammates and using the all-aspect IR-guided R-23T missile.

High altitude, high speed, together with your team, BVR. Fly along with your team, maintain a high altitude until all enemy aircraft are below you, then make surprise attacks on enemies that are busy, normally use the R-23R to destroy the high-altitude F-4s or F-104s with BVR missiles.

No matter which tactic you choose, it is recommended to engage your enemy from their front hemisphere, since you can carry all-aspect IR missiles. This way it leaves your enemy less time to react and dodge the missiles. Also, since both the R-60Ms and the R-23Ts have a relatively wide FOV, it is recommended to lock the enemy using your IRST before engaging the missile lock to slave the missile, and better utilise their wide FOV. Only use the R-60Ms at close range, around 1.5 km. They perform best under such range, and it also gives your enemy less reaction time to release the countermeasures, since R-60Ms are easily tricked by flares.

When in a 1-vs-1 situation, try to use your great low-speed performance to trick the enemy into low speeds, especially when against Phantoms. When your speed drops below 400 km/h, manually control the wing to the most frontal position to improve your manoeuvrability.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Relatively high cruising and top speeds
* Extremely good climb rate
* Manoeuvres better than most of its opponents (such as the Phantoms and other MiG-23s/27s)
* Excellent air-to-air payload, having a wide array of missiles for almost all situations
* Decent air-to-ground payload available
* Large caliber countermeasures are very effective, only one, at most two salvos will be required to evade any missile
* Stock payload includes 2 good quality [[R-13M1]] AAMs, although insufficient in number
* Can use its radar ballistic computer to hit targets with the cannon beyond the aim assist range (770 m)
* CCIP for rockets allows to deliver quick and very accurate rocket bursts at designated targets, especially in mixed battles

'''Cons:'''

* Underwhelming instantaneous turn rate, cannot pull some extreme manoeuvres easily
* Somewhat prone to stalling, especially after getting hit in one of the wings
* Loses quite a lot of speed in turns
* Bleeds a large amount of energy with its wings swept
* Relatively low countermeasures count (12)
* Low ammunition count and low muzzle velocity for the GSh-23L cannon
* Negative-G manoeuvres at high speeds could cause a wing rip, even for a few seconds

== History ==

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

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_23mf_germany Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==

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

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

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7476/current|[Devblog] Winter marathon vehicles: MiG-23MF (Germany)]]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}
{{Winter Event}}

MiG-23MF (Germany)

2022-01-06T23:12:36Z

U8359201: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = MiG-23 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_23mf_germany
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift rank {{Specs|rank}} German jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Winged Lions"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/7469-event-operation-w-i-n-t-e-r-en|2021 Operation W.I.N.T.E.R.]] event.

The MiG-23MF is an export modification of the Soviet [[MiG-23M]]. In this modification, the avionics were changed in favour of more budgetary and somewhat simplified systems. The MiG-23MF was delivered to all the main countries of the Warsaw Pact, as well as to the Arab states of the Middle East, Africa, India and Cuba.

The MIG-23MF inherits all the main characteristics from the original - good top speed, a very good climb rate, a variable sweep wing and a large array of weaponry. The disadvantages also remained: a limited number of countermeasures, a limited number of weapon suspension nodes and rather mediocre manoeuvrability at transonic speeds.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 13,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,339 || 2,329 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.6 || 35.6 || 147.4 || 140.4 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,380 || 2,358 || 34.5 || 35.0 || 194.4 || 170.0
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1470  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 665 || < 650 || < 700 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-29-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,155 kg || colspan="3" | 395 - 445 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,367 kg || 13,462 kg || 14,615 kg || 15,195 kg || 18,400 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,494 kgf
| 0.85 || 0.78 || 0.72 || 0.69 || 0.57
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,987 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.05 || 0.96 || 0.89 || 0.85 || 0.71
|-
|}

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

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

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

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

{{main|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 12 x countermeasures

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

{{main|OFAB-100 (100 kg)|FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)}}
{{main|R-3S|R-13M1|R-23R|R-23T|R-60MK}}
{{main|Kh-23M|S-5K|S-24B}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x R-3S missiles
* 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,300 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-60MK missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (800 kg total)
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-60MK missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 64 x S-5K rockets (500 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 4 x R-3S missiles
* 2 x R-3S missiles + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60MK missiles + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60MK missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 4 x R-60MK missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 4 x R-13M1 missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 6 x R-60MK missiles
* 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-23T missiles
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 96 x S-5K rockets
* 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles

== Usage in battles ==

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

=== Pros and cons ===
'''Pros:'''

* Very fast cruiser and top speeds
* Maneuvers better than most of it's opponents (like Phantoms and other Mig-23s/27s)
* Very good air-to-air payload, having a wide array of missiles ([[R-3S|R-3Ss]] and [[R-13M1|R-13M1s]] for rear-aspect, [[R-60MK|R-60MKs]] for all-aspects, [[R-23R|R-23Rs]] for Semi-Active Radar Homing, and [[R-23T|R-23Ts]] for thermal guidance)
* Decent air-to-ground payload (up to 96 [[S-5K]] HEAT rockets, 4 high-caliber [[S-24B]] HE rockets, 2 [[Kh-23M]] air-to-ground missiles, or some 100kg, 250kg or 500kg bomb payloads)
* Stock payload includes 2 poor, but sometimes useful [[R-3S]] AAMs
* Can use it's radar ballistic computer to hit targets with the cannon beyond the aim assist range (770m)
* CCIP for rockets allows to deliver quick and very accurate rocket bursts at designated targets, especially in mixed battles

'''Cons:'''

* Underwhelming instantaneous turn rate, cannot pull some extreme windows easily
* Somewhat prone to stalling, especially after getting hit in one of the wings
* Loses quite a lot of speed in turns
* Bleeds energy
* Low countermeasures count
* Low ammunition count and low muzzle velocity for the GSh-23L cannon

== History ==

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

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_23mf_germany Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==

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

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

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7476/current|[Devblog] Winter marathon vehicles: MiG-23MF (Germany)]]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}
{{Winter Event}}

MiG-23MF (Germany)

2022-01-06T23:11:59Z

U8359201: /* Pros and cons */ Described some Pros and Cons

{{About
| about = jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = MiG-23 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_23mf_germany
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift rank {{Specs|rank}} German jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Winged Lions"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/7469-event-operation-w-i-n-t-e-r-en|2021 Operation W.I.N.T.E.R.]] event.

The MiG-23MF is an export modification of the Soviet [[MiG-23M]]. In this modification, the avionics were changed in favour of more budgetary and somewhat simplified systems. The MiG-23MF was delivered to all the main countries of the Warsaw Pact, as well as to the Arab states of the Middle East, Africa, India and Cuba.

The MIG-23MF inherits all the main characteristics from the original - good top speed, a very good climb rate, a variable sweep wing and a large array of weaponry. The disadvantages also remained: a limited number of countermeasures, a limited number of weapon suspension nodes and rather mediocre manoeuvrability at transonic speeds.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 13,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 2,339 || 2,329 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 35.6 || 35.6 || 147.4 || 140.4 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,380 || 2,358 || 34.5 || 35.0 || 194.4 || 170.0
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1470  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~12 || ~5
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 665 || < 650 || < 700 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Tumansky R-29-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,155 kg || colspan="3" | 395 - 445 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,367 kg || 13,462 kg || 14,615 kg || 15,195 kg || 18,400 kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,494 kgf
| 0.85 || 0.78 || 0.72 || 0.69 || 0.57
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,987 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 1.05 || 0.96 || 0.89 || 0.85 || 0.71
|-
|}

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

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

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

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

{{main|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon, belly-mounted (200 rpg)
** 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 12 x countermeasures

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

{{main|OFAB-100 (100 kg)|FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)}}
{{main|R-3S|R-13M1|R-23R|R-23T|R-60MK}}
{{main|Kh-23M|S-5K|S-24B}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x R-3S missiles
* 16 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,600 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,300 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-60MK missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (800 kg total)
* 8 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (800 kg total)
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-3S missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-13M1 missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-60MK missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23R missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 2 x R-23T missiles (500 kg total)
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs + 64 x S-5K rockets (500 kg total)
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (1,000 kg total)
* 4 x R-3S missiles
* 2 x R-3S missiles + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60MK missiles + 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60MK missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 4 x R-60MK missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 4 x R-13M1 missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles + 2 x R-23T missiles
* 6 x R-60MK missiles
* 2 x R-23R missiles
* 2 x R-23T missiles
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 64 x S-5K rockets
* 96 x S-5K rockets
* 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles

== Usage in battles ==

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

=== Pros and cons ===
'''Pros:'''

* Very fast cruiser and top speeds
* Maneuvers better than most of it's opponents (like Phantoms and other Mig-23s/27s)
* Very good air-to-air payload, having a wide array of missiles ([[R-3S|R-3Ss]] and [[R-13M1|R-13M1s]] for rear-aspect, [[R-60MK|R-60MKs]] for all-aspects, [[R-23R|R-23Rs]] for Semi-Active Radar Homing, and [[R-23T|R-23Ts]] for thermal guidance)
* Decent air-to-ground payload (up to 96 [[S-5K]] HEAT rockets, 4 high-caliber [[S-24B]] HE rockets, 2 [[Kh-23M]] air-to-ground missiles, or some 100kg, 250kg or 500kg bomb payloads)
* Stock payload includes 2 poor, but sometimes useful [[R-3S]] AAMs
* Can use it's radar ballistic computer to hit targets with the cannon beyond the aim assist range (770m)
* CCIP for rockets allows to deliver quick and very accurate rocket bursts at designated targets, especially in mixed battles

*

'''Cons:'''

* Underwhelming instantaneous turn rate, cannot pull some extreme windows easily
* Somewhat prone to stalling, especially after getting hit in one of the wings
* Loses quite a lot of speed in turns
* Bleeds energy
* Low countermeasures count
* Low ammunition count and low muzzle velocity for the GSh-23L cannon

== History ==

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

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_23mf_germany Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==

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

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

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7476/current|[Devblog] Winter marathon vehicles: MiG-23MF (Germany)]]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{Germany jet aircraft}}
{{Winter Event}}

Su-22M3

2021-12-17T11:03:52Z

U8359201: /* Usage in battles */

{{Specs-Card
|code=su_22m3
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a squadron rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Winged Lions"]].

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

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

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

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

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

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

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | _____ || _
| colspan="2" | _,___ kg || colspan="2" | ___ kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel
|-
| ___ kg || colspan="2" | ___
| _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (___%/WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || ___%/WEP
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || ___ kgf || ___ kgf
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
|-
| ''Optimal'' || ___ kgf (_ km/h) || ___ kgf (_ km/h)
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
|-
|}

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

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

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

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

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

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 2 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons, wing-mounted (80 rpg = 160 total)
** 2 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons (80 rpg = 160 total) + 12 x countermeasures

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

{{main|OFAB-100 (100 kg)|OFAB-250sv (250 kg)|FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}
{{main|Kh-23M|Kh-25ML|Kh-29L|R-60}}
{{main|S-3K|S-8KO|S-24B|S-25L|S-25O}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)
* 20 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 10 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (2,500 kg total)
* 8 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (4,000 kg total)
* 28 x S-3K rockets
* 80 x S-8KO rockets
* 6 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 6 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 20 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 10 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (2,500 kg total)
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 8 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (4,000 kg total)
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 28 x S-3K rockets
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 80 x S-8KO rockets
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 6 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 18 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,800 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 18 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (1,800 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 8 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 8 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (2,000 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 6 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (3,000 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 6 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (3,000 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 40 x S-8KO rockets
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 40 x S-8KO rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 28 x S-3K rockets
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 28 x S-3K rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 4 x S-24B rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 2 x Kh-23M missiles + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 4 x Kh-25ML missiles + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 2 x Kh-29L missiles + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x S-25O rockets
* 2 x S-25O rockets + 6 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x S-25O rockets + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons
* 2 x S-25O rockets + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x S-25L missiles
* 2 x S-25L missiles + 6 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x S-25L missiles + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons
* 2 x S-25L missiles + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 2 x R-60 missiles

== Usage in battles ==
=== Pros and cons ===
'''Pros:'''

* High max speed and climb rate
* About 50 presets of secondary weapons
* Brilliant selection of guided weapons to hit ground targets
* Variable sweep wing
* Brilliant S-25L laser-guided missiles

'''Cons:'''

* Huge target
* Somewhat sluggish at low speeds

== History ==

The Su-22M3 is one of the variants of the Su-17 strike aircraft series designed for export. A distinctive feature of the project was the adaptation of the Su-17M3 airframe for the installation of the Tumansky R-29BS-300 engine, similar to the exported MiG-23’s R-29-300. It was assumed that the engine, familiar to foreign operators, would simplify the service and operation of the aircraft. Unlike the earlier simplified commercial versions, the Su-22M3 modification had avionics completely unified with the Su-17M3. The machine was produced in 1982-83 in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, a total of 70 Su-22M3 units were built. These fighter-bombers were delivered to Hungary, Siria, and Iraq.

== Media ==

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

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[Su-17M2]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7487-development-squadron-vehicles-su-22m3-en|[Devblog] Squadron vehicles: Su-22M3]]

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

Su-22M3

2021-12-17T11:03:20Z

U8359201: /* History */ /*Pros and Cons*/

{{Specs-Card
|code=su_22m3
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a squadron rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Winged Lions"]].

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

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

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

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

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

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

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="4" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | _____ || _
| colspan="2" | _,___ kg || colspan="2" | ___ kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel
|-
| ___ kg || colspan="2" | ___
| _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg || _,___ kg
|-
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (___%/WEP)
|-
! Condition || 100% || ___%/WEP
! _m fuel || __m fuel || __m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || ___ kgf || ___ kgf
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
|-
| ''Optimal'' || ___ kgf (_ km/h) || ___ kgf (_ km/h)
| _.__ || _.__ || _.__ || _.__
|-
|}

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

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

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

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

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

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 2 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons, wing-mounted (80 rpg = 160 total)
** 2 x 30 mm NR-30 cannons (80 rpg = 160 total) + 12 x countermeasures

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

{{main|OFAB-100 (100 kg)|OFAB-250sv (250 kg)|FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|GSh-23L (23 mm)}}
{{main|Kh-23M|Kh-25ML|Kh-29L|R-60}}
{{main|S-3K|S-8KO|S-24B|S-25L|S-25O}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)
* 20 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 10 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (2,500 kg total)
* 8 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (4,000 kg total)
* 28 x S-3K rockets
* 80 x S-8KO rockets
* 6 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 6 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 20 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 10 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (2,500 kg total)
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 8 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (4,000 kg total)
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 28 x S-3K rockets
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 80 x S-8KO rockets
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 6 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x R-60 missiles + 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 18 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (1,800 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 18 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (1,800 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 8 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 8 x 250 kg OFAB-250sv bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (2,000 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 6 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (3,000 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 6 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs + 2 x R-60 missiles (3,000 kg total)
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 40 x S-8KO rockets
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 40 x S-8KO rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 28 x S-3K rockets
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 28 x S-3K rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 4 x S-24B rockets + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 1 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannon + 2 x Kh-23M missiles + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 4 x Kh-25ML missiles + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 2 x Kh-29L missiles + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x S-25O rockets
* 2 x S-25O rockets + 6 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x S-25O rockets + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons
* 2 x S-25O rockets + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 2 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x S-25L missiles
* 2 x S-25L missiles + 6 x R-60 missiles
* 2 x S-25L missiles + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons
* 2 x S-25L missiles + 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons + 2 x R-60 missiles

== Usage in battles ==
=== Pros and cons ===
'''Pros:'''

* High max speed and climb rate
* About 50 presets of secondary weapons
* Brilliant selection of guided weapons to hit ground targets
* Variable sweep wing
* Brilliant S-25L laser-guided missiles

*

'''Cons:'''

* Huge target
* Somewhat sluggish at low speeds

*

== History ==

The Su-22M3 is one of the variants of the Su-17 strike aircraft series designed for export. A distinctive feature of the project was the adaptation of the Su-17M3 airframe for the installation of the Tumansky R-29BS-300 engine, similar to the exported MiG-23’s R-29-300. It was assumed that the engine, familiar to foreign operators, would simplify the service and operation of the aircraft. Unlike the earlier simplified commercial versions, the Su-22M3 modification had avionics completely unified with the Su-17M3. The machine was produced in 1982-83 in Komsomolsk-on-Amur, a total of 70 Su-22M3 units were built. These fighter-bombers were delivered to Hungary, Siria, and Iraq.

== Media ==

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

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[Su-17M2]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/7487-development-squadron-vehicles-su-22m3-en|[Devblog] Squadron vehicles: Su-22M3]]

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

KPz-70

2021-12-16T11:53:10Z

U8359201: /* Pros and cons */ Added some pros and cons

{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_kpz_70
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|KPz-70 WebsiteImage 1.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.71 "New E.R.A."]].

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

Unlike the Soviet T-64A (its main rival), the KPz-70 does not utilize composite armour, but an air gap that forces munitions penetrating the initial layers to lose their mass by fragmenting apart before moving to the next layer of armour. This general design concept has been in use as far back as WW2 and is even used to this day on modern fighting vehicles.

Spaced armour works wonderfully well against shaped charge munitions or any other munition with explosive filler provided it is of a stronger protection rating. Proceeding weapons and munitions development has seen this benefit decreased with either more powerful or tandem charge warheads and can be seen in-game against weapons that proceeded different designs of spaced armour. As such, the KPz-70 will find weapons that were designed to defeat spaced armour such as the HOT-K3S ATGM and BAE Swingfire system that will penetrate it. However, the spaced armour in the KPz-70 works exactly as it was designed to do against older anti-tank missiles, HEAT, HE, and HESH munitions.

The tank mounts no external spaced armour. The armour on the side and rear of the tank is not worth mentioning as it will only stop light machine gun fire and some cannon fire on the turret. Adversary SABOT rounds will penetrate clear through the engine and into the crew compartment most likely destroying the tank if engaged from behind.

An unconventional feature at the time the KPz-70 was designed was the housing of all the crew members in the turret. Because of the autoloading system, the need for a loader was eliminated and due to an attempt to further lower the silhouette of the tank, the driver was located to the turret with the gunner and commander. This can have potentially devastating consequences on the battlefield as the crew can easily be injured or incapacitated by penetrating munitions entering the crew compartment.

For defensive countermeasures, the tank is equipped with quad four-barrel externally mounted smoke canister launchers which can provide either a defensive screen for the tank or friendly forces. These launchers can be fired in pairs of two. Keep in mind the smoke grenade launchers are operated by the gunner so should he become incapacitated in a fight, the smokes will become unavailable until the gunner is either replaced by another crew member or the crew replenishment consumable restores them.

Due to its low profile and effective array of camouflage options the KPz-70 scores high marks in the concealability category. It has a total of 4 camouflage options available to it. The standard (a 3 tone NATO CARC camouflage), winter camouflage (requires 700 battles against other players in the tank), a brown camouflage for desert environments, and lastly an olive drab option. The addition of various foliage can further increase the ability to conceal the tank.

'''Armour type:'''

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

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 34* mm (60-61°) ''Front glacis'' 76.2 mm (64°) ''Lower glacis'' || 23 mm (40°) ''Top'' 23-35 mm ''Bottom'' || 30 mm (12°) ''Top'' 13 mm (57°) ''Bottom'' 8 mm (12°) ''Engine exhaust'' || 20 mm ''Front'' 8-12.7 mm ''Engine deck''
|-
| Turret || 50-200 mm (0-75°) || 12.7-38* mm (29-34°) || 12.7* mm (27-80°) || 20-50 mm ''Front'' 12.7 mm ''Rear turret''
|-
| Cupola || 25 mm || 25 mm || 25 mm || 25 mm
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Spaced armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear
|-
| Hull || 200 mm ''Kinetic'' 170 mm ''Chemical'' || N/A || N/A
|-
| Turret || 320 mm ''Kinetic'' 280 mm ''Chemical'' || '''38 mm sections:''' 320 mm ''Kinetic'' 280 mm ''Chemical'' '''12.7 mm sections:''' 35 mm ''Kinetic'' 40 mm ''Chemical'' || 35 mm ''Kinetic'' 40 mm ''Chemical''
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick and tracks are 30 mm thick.
* Belly armour is 16 mm thick.
* Gun mantlet ring around the gun barrel is 305 mm thick.
* A 16 mm RHA plate separates the engine from the crew compartment
* Hull spaced armour configuration is 34 mm RHA + 127 mm air + 46 mm RHA.
* Turret spaced armour configuration is 38 mm RHA + 127 mm air + 130-33 mm RHA.
* Turret rear spaced armour configuration is 13 mm RHA + 38 mm air + 19 mm RHA.

The main weakness of the KPz-70 to take advantage of as an opposing player is the weak armour when compared to other tanks of its rank. If the KPz-70 can be baited to come towards a position, it becomes much easier to fight. Avoid springing a well-placed KPz-70 ambush if at all possible or try to sneak around him to flank and attack his weakest armour. A well-placed shot through the side of the turret is generally ensured destruction as all of the crew is located in the turret along with an ammunition store with rounds being located under the turret basket.

With the proper position or speed, try getting around the KPz-70 and engaging him from where it does not expect. It's important to remember the KPz-70 has the ability to quickly snap the turret around and engage any enemy, so surprising the tank is of the up-most central importance to come out victorious.

Another weakness that can be exploited is its speed. Because of its speed, unskilled players or players unfamiliar with its play style will often rush into situations they are not equipped to fight properly and find themselves overwhelmed, allowing a prepared defence to eliminate them.

One last weak spot worth mentioning is the turret ring. High penetrating munitions can completely pierce this section and travel into the crew compartment. SABOT rounds are especially effective at this. Any tank or SPAA with fast firing 30+ mm gun can penetrate it easily.

Do not try to out-shoot the KPz-70 as it has a very rapid reload that in most cases will ensure that unless the tank's ability to fire is disabled, it will recover and continue to fire to disable or destroy its offender.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=2,325|rbMinHp=1,327}}

The KPz-70 displays impressive mobility, in terms of its ability to pickup and maintain speed over various terrains - albeit it is somewhat lacklustre compared to some of the top tier vehicles such as the [[M1 Abrams]] and [[T-80B]]. Mobility is the best weapon the KPz-70 has.

The KPz-70 is equipped with a diesel-fuelled 1,500 horsepower (1,100 kW) Daimler Benz V12 engine. This engine pack compared to its American counterpart produces more power, but only slightly so giving the KPz-70 an amazing 29.8 hp/t at 50 - 51.7 tons (depending on upgrade configuration).

A highly advantageous feature is the [[Hydropneumatic suspension|hydropneumatic suspension]] system which not only provides great cross country mobility but allows the crew to position the vehicle in such a way to only expose the strongest armour at an enemy threat. The suspension can also be used to gain further gun depression by raising the rear of the tank and lowering the front thus allowing the gunner to engage from a position that he might not have been able to engage from previously.

The KPz-70 features the standard NATO track and block design that can be found on most NATO vehicles. The rubber track blocks provide great traction off-road and on-road compared to all-metal tracks found on other fighting vehicles as sliding on a short halt or drifting is minimized.

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

The recommended research order of modules is Parts, FPE, the XM578E1 APFSDS shell, NVD, mobility modifications, and then any remaining modules.

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

{{main|XM150E5 (152 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[XM150E5 (152 mm)|152 mm XM150E5]] || 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" | 48 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 34.3 || 47.4 || 57.6 || 63.7 || 67.8 || rowspan="2" | 6.00 || rowspan="2" | 6.00 || rowspan="2" | 6.00 || rowspan="2" | 6.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 21.4 || 25.2 || 30.6 || 33.8 || 36.0
|-
|}
The most important feature that makes a tank is the cannon. In this department, the KPz-70 is no slouch. The 152 mm gun launcher system (the same one used on the [[M551|M551 Sheridan]]), but with a longer barrel and is capable of firing a variety of munition types including an experimental APFSDS round, a traditional HEAT round (with high penetration), an experimental smoke round, and lastly the very capable and proven MGM-51C Shillelagh. This wide range of munition choices gives the operator a variety of options in a pre-combat configuration which can greatly either hinder or enhance the tankers capability on the battlefield. The benefit of a longer barrel compared to its Sheridan counterpart ensures the KPz-70 is much more accurate at range and that the rounds leave the barrel at higher velocities thus increasing their overall damage-dealing capabilities. Additionally, the 152 mm gun launcher gets equipped with an autoloader, greatly reducing its time between follow-up shots on a target.

For targeting, the option to equip an incredibly accurate laser range finder is available. Additionally, the 7.62 mm machine gun mounted in the turret can be used for range finding as well. Because of the elevated engine deck, gun depression is decreased significantly when firing or aiming the gun over the rear of the tank.

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| XM578E1 || APFSDS || 346 || 343 || 334 || 323 || 311 || 300
|-
| M409A1 || HEAT || 380 || 380 || 380 || 380 || 380 || 380
|-
| MGM-51C || ATGM || 431 || 431 || 431 || 431 || 431 || 431
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| XM578E1 || APFSDS || 1,478 || 3.7 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 76° || 77° || 80°
|-
| M409A1 || HEAT || 754 || 18.9 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 3,730 || 62° || 69° || 73°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="11" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Range (m)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| MGM-51C || ATGM || 286 || 3,200 || 27.8 || 0 || 0.1 || 3,600 || 80° || 82° || 90°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="7" | Smoke shell characteristics
|-
! Ammunition
! Velocity (m/s)
! Projectile Mass (kg)
! Screen radius (m)
! Screen deploy time (s)
! Screen hold time (s)
! Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
|-
| XM410E1 || 754 || 18.9 || 25 || 5 || 30 || 50
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! Full ammo
! 1st rack empty
! 2nd rack empty
! 3rd rack empty
! 4th rack empty
! 5th rack empty
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''48''' || 44 ''(+4)'' || 33 ''(+15)'' || 25 ''(+23)'' || 13 ''(+35)'' || 1 ''(+47)'' || No
|-
|}
'''Notes''':

* 2nd rack empty: 33 ''(+15)'' shells.
* The KPz-70 can only pack 6 missiles.

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

{{main|Rh202 (20 mm)|MG3A1 (7.62 mm)}}

The Rheinmetall Rh 202 20 mm autocannon is highly effective at dealing with lightly armoured battlefield threats and on some tanks exposed sides or rears. In some situations, it may be more beneficial to utilize the 20 mm as it will allow the tank to deal damage rapidly while conserving the 152 mm main cannon ammunition. The cannon is also highly effective at shooting down low flying attackers. Note that if the commander is knocked out, the 20 mm will become unusable.

The KPz-70 is one of the few medium tanks (aside from French, [[Leopard 2K]] and [[MBT-70]]) to carry 20 mm coaxial autocannon. This weapon should not be treated lightly or dismissed as "just an anti-aircraft" gun, as it has 57 mm penetration at flat angle, and it will shred anything from light tanks and SPAA, to lightly armoured medium tanks' sides and SPG, if they are not angled. In case that their armour cannot be penetrated, use the autocannon to destroy a hostile tank's gun barrel and make them helpless, then return fire. This is even more effective, considering the main cannon can fire ATGM directly at enemy tank without losing the penetration or accuracy even when its barrel is broken, allowing you to punish people fishing for easy cannon barrel takedowns.

If necessary, the 20 mm can also fire at the sky to take out helicopters and careless jet pilots.

Do note, that this pintle-mounted weapon is not protected by anything - HE hit to the hull (for example, if SAM tank fires at it) will likely obliterate it, forcing it to do pathetic damage and jam or miss a lot. Do not forget to repair it.

7.62 mm machine gun is simply used to make bullet screens against hostile ATGM or to put more pressure on aircrafts, if they can be targeted by it.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[Rh202 (20 mm)|20 mm Rh202]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Pintle || 750 (750) || 900 || -9°/+65° || ±180°
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[MG3A1 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm MG3A1]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 6,000 (1,000) || 1,200 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

The tank plays very much like the [[Leopard A1A1|Leopard A1A1]]. Players familiar with the Leopard play style will easily adapt to the KPz-70. It has reasonable mobility, especially with full upgrades and aced crew, allowing it to manoeuvre into spots not typically accessible by less mobile tanks. Utilize this to an advantage to set up ambushes as this is how the KPz-70 will get the best of many opponents. It's important to recognize when engagement is not beneficial so that the tank may get a better position or escape from the threat.

Despite the initial appearance of strong frontal armour, it's important to remember when compared to its counterparts at its rank, it is not nearly enough to defeat threats head-on such as the [[T-64A (1971)|T-64A]]. Even ATGM from missile vehicles such as the [[RakJPz 2 (HOT)|Raketenjagdpanzer 2 HOT]] will penetrate the turret and upper glacis plate. Even other Rank V tanks can and will penetrate from the front. Because of the rather condensed placement of crew and ammunition, the KPz-70 will most likely be destroyed. Because of this, it is critical that the KPz-70 gets the first shot off in engagement and ensure it is either eliminated or crippled to such a capacity they either cannot engage or will instinctively panic and try to run to repair or determine the engagement location.

The gun is especially versatile and powerful with a wide range of ammunition selection, but generally, the cannon launched ATGMs and sabot rounds will get the job done in most situations. The 20 mm turret roof-mounted cannon is great for taking out lightly armoured targets (to include some tanks, ATGM vehicles, etc), anti-air, and aircraft.

Essentially, if this tank is treated like a Leopard, the survivability rate will increase dramatically. The hydropneumatic suspension allows the tank to position in such ways that it can engage from non-conventional spots while exposing only the strongest armour towards the threat. The low silhouette makes the tank especially difficult to hit at longer ranges and this can be further enhanced (situation dependent) by the adjustable suspension. Because of the accurate cannon, it will also find be easy to engage at longer ranges which will maximize the KPz-70's strengths while reducing the targets.

In summary, the KPz-70 is a great addition to any end game lineup as it provides great flexibility in almost all engagements and is well worth the time and investment to acquire.

===Tactics===
Ambushing is the tank's strength. As covered previously, utilize the speed to get into firing positions quickly and cause chaos and confusion among the enemy.

The KPz-70 can also quickly capture objective points and when used properly hold positions so long as it does not stay in any one place too long.

Scoot and shoot tactics will benefit the KPz-70 play style as well as terrain masking techniques.

Should the tank have to fight in closer engagement ranges or in close quarters, it's critical to always remember the armour will not protect the tank reliably. However, the speed, fast-rotating turret, and manoeuvrability will. Provided the player utilizes these to their advantage, the KPz-70 will be able to control the fight. Recognize when the enemy is baiting the tank into an ambush and avoid them as the KPz-70 doesn't stand a great chance of conducting a counter-ambush due to the weak armour.

If the KPz-70 does find itself a victim of an ambush, launch a smokescreen, escape, and reassess for a counter-ambush.

The KPz-70 benefits greatly from squad play. A skilled lone KPz-70 is most certainly a threat on the battlefield but 2 or even 3 KPz-70's working in conjunction with each other in a squad is an extreme danger to the opposing team as the use of squad tactics in combination with the great strengths of the tank can almost completely control the momentum of the conflict.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great mobility, although out-stripped by some vehicles that utilize turbine engines
* Extremely fast in both forwards and reverse
* Fast reload at 6 seconds with autoloader
* Great gun, with access to various types of ammunition, ATGMs included
* 20 mm autocannon anti-aircraft gun mounted on the top of the tank
* 20 mm autocannon will shred apart any aircraft it hits, especially helicopters
* Low profile for visibility
* Armor may be reliable against chemical shells
* Missile has a very short fuel time (about 2 secs), after engine is off it's almost impossible to spot until it is too close, as it leaves no smoke trail like TOW, or a small red spot like Shturm. It looks like a slow cannon shell.
* Has a hydropneumatic suspension system
* The fuel tanks in the hull can absorb HEATFS shells

'''Cons:'''

* Unimpressive frontal plate armour, the turret ring is also exposed, allowing SPAA and light tanks to destroy it frontally
* Vulnerable to the rear, if the hydropneumatic suspension is not used
* Armor is only reliable if downtiered
* Optics are vulnerable and can cause ATGMs and HE to explode downwards into the crew compartment
* Very easy to one shot because of 3 crew cramped in the turret
* Cannot aim backwards due to engine room
* Giant engine room is very easy to get shot and destroyed

== History ==


Being threatened by the Soviet T-64 tank, Germany and the United States joined together to develop a new main battle tank in the mid-1960s. This became the MBT/KPz-70 project. The new main battle tank would use advanced technology of the time, including hydropneumatic suspension, 152mm gun/launcher capable firing tank shell and ATGM, autoloading system, spaced armour, 1500 horsepower diesel engine and remote-controlled weapon station. Everything looks perfect on paper, but in reality, there were many problems. The autoloading system could load Shillelagh missile quite easily, but it would jam the tank shell. The housing of the driver in a rotating cupola inside the turret would cause an unanticipated problems to the driver. The caseless ammunition would also become unusable if the humidity is high.

With such design problems and over budget, MBT/KPz-70 project was officially cancelled in 1971. Though the MBT/KPz-70 never entered service, many of its design and technology had been passed on to its successor: M1 Abrams and Keiler, the latter of which became the Leopard 2.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_kpz_70 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|ly9JS6errQQ|'''Best secondary armaments''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 6:03 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|PosWOnOGkSo|'''Best experimental vehicles''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:27 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


* [[MBT-70]]
* [[VT1-2]]

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/4923-gamescom-kpz-70-mbt-70-a-warrior-of-two-armies-en|[Devblog] KPz-70 & MBT-70 - A Warrior of Two Armies]]

{{Germany medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

Roland

2021-12-16T11:23:41Z

U8359201: /* Vehicles equipped with this weapon */ Added one more tank.

{{DISPLAYTITLE:Roland SAM}}
== Description ==
[[File:WeaponImage Roland.png|thumb|left|420px|The Roland missile (the launch tube, missile with fins folded, and deployed missile are shown; scale is approximate)]]
{{Break}}

The Roland SAM is a family of radar- and optical-guided surface-to-air missiles developed by Germany and France in the mid-60s until the late 70s. Its purpose was to defend mobile units and facilities such as airfields against low flying aircraft.

=== Vehicles equipped with this weapon ===


* {{Specs-Link|germ_flarakpz_1}}
* {{Specs-Link|germ_flarakrad}}
* {{Specs-Link|fr_amx_30_roland}}
* [[XM975]]

== General info ==
''Tell us about the tactical and technical characteristics of the missile.''

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

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

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

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

'''Pros:'''

*

'''Cons:'''

*

== History ==


The Roland SAM was a project between Germany and France following the 1963 Elysée treaty. The goal was to create an all-weather capable, surface-to-air missile system to defend mobile units and important facilities like airfields against low flying aircraft. Development began in 1964 with the foundation of the Euromissile company by Aérospatiale and MBB and the first prototype made a guided launch in June 1968. The development was split between Aérospatiale, who would develop the Roland 1, and MBB who were to develop the all-weather capable Roland 2. The entire process however took longer than expected and was far more expensive than anticipated, especially due to the complexity of the system and the development of additional protection against electric interference.

The first Roland 1 units entered service with the French army in 1977 while the German army would receive their first Roland 2 in 1978 with France following in 1981. The last Roland systems of the German army were taken out of service in 2005 and are being replaced by Systems such as Ozelot.

Besides being in service with Germany and France, the Roland SAM was exported to many other nations, including the USA, where it became one of very few foreign SAM systems. Among the other nations that used the Roland SAM are Argentina and Iraq who were the only nations to use it in active combat. All in all, Roland missiles scored 3 confirmed kills (one British Sea Harrier downed by Argentine forces during the Falkland War, one RAF Tornado downed by Iraqi forces during the Gulf war, and a USAF A-10 Thunderbolt, also shot down by Iraqi troops during the same war). However, the suspected number of destroyed aircraft might be twice as high (one Sea Harrier (Argentina), one F-4 Phantom, one F-5 Tiger, two Tornados, and one A-10 Thunderbolt (Iraq)).

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

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

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

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

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

{{Missiles}}

[[Category:Suspended armaments]]

T-72B

2021-06-26T23:54:58Z

U8359201: Described multiple playstyles, increased "Pros and Cons" section.

{{About
| about = Soviet medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = T-72 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=ussr_t_72b
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].

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


The T-72B is an up-armoured and up-gunned version of the T-72A, although this still does not protect the "weak spots" that most Soviet tanks have (weak lower front plate, driver optics etc.). The T-72B has more armour on the upper plate of the hull, that provides around 500 mm to 900 mm of effective armour protection.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Armour!!Front (Slope angle)!!Sides!!Rear!!Roof
|-
|Hull||60 mm (60°)||80 mm ''Top''
20 mm ''Bottom''
|40 mm||20 - 30 mm
|-
|Turret||Variable thickness armour ''Turret front''
220-600 mm ''Gun mantlet''
|240 - 118 mm||60 - 115 mm||45 mm
|-
|Cupola||100 mm (variable angles)||100 mm||100 mm||40 mm
|}

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,302|rbMinHp=743}}

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

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

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

{{main|2A46M-1 (125 mm)}}

The T-72B is armed with the same 125 mm cannon found in the [[T-80B]], with its 3BM42 "Mango" round proving competitive against other Rank VII offerings. As with previous Russian MBTs, the main gun is auto-loaded, so the loss of a crew member does not affect the loading times and the 7.1-second loading speed is competitive when compared to the 120 mm guns on the Leopard 2A5 and M1A2 Abrams. One notable perk of the auto-loader mechanism is that the gun will be reloaded even if the gunner is knocked out, if you're fighting a fire, or repairing. It does however also come with the drawbacks of a reload time that cannot be improved, the large ammo carousel concentric with the turret, and the chance of a single penetrating shot detonating the ammo racks. Another thing to note, since update 1.97 if the tank's battery runs out of power, the auto loader will not function and the cannon will need to be manually loaded, which is a much slower process.

As with the T-80B and T-64B, the T-72B can launch missiles out of its gun. Unlike the previous two vehicles though, it gets the upgraded 9M119 which has 700 mm of penetration compared to the previous ATGM's 650 mm penetration. These ATGM's can prove useful for shooting over hills to hit a hiding enemy or to engage helicopters or low-flying aircraft.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[2A46M-1 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46M-1]] || 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" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 22.8 || 31.6 || 38.4 || 42.5 || 45.2 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.3 || 16.8 || 20.4 || 22.6 || 24.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550
|-
| 3OF26 || HE || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42
|-
| 3BM22 || APFSDS || 425 || 420 || 415 || 405 || 393 || 380
|-
| 9M119 || ATGM || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700
|-
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 479 || 477 || 470 || 462 || 453 || 445
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 905 || 19 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 2,790 || 65° || 72° || 77°
|-
| 3OF26 || HE || 850 || 23 || 0 || 0.1 || 5,240 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| 3BM22 || APFSDS || 1,760 || 4.83 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 76° || 77° || 80°
|-
| 9M119 || ATGM || 400 || 23.3 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 5,540 || 80° || 82° || 90°
|-
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 1,700 || 4.85 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''45''' || 41 ''(+4)'' || 34 ''(+11)'' || 22 ''(+23)'' || 0 ''(+45)'' || No
|-
|}

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

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

The T-72B has access to a coaxial PKT 7.76 mm machine gun and a 12.7 mm NSVT anti-aircraft machine gun, which is mounted above the commander's hatch. The PKT is rarely useful in top tier matches, but the NSVT can be quite useful. The NSVT has 29 mm of penetration, allowing it to damage some light vehicles like IFVs and enemy SPAA. Additionally it is useful to engage enemy helicopters when they come close. Machine guns can also be used to try and shoot down enemy ATGMs, but this is unreliable. They can also be used to shoot the ground in front of the tank for a quick smoke screen of sorts, confusing the enemy and blocking their view for a clean shot.

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

== Usage in battles ==


There are three main ways to use the T-72B: As a flanker, as a sniper, or as a frontline support tank.

=== As a flanker: ===
The T-72B performs awesomely as a flanker, especially with a new engine. In many maps, as Berlin, Maginot Line or Mozdok, it will be one of the best playstyles. If APFSDS hasn't been researched yet, try to know your most common opponent's racks (i.e. [[XM-1 (Chrysler)]]/[[XM-1 (GM)|(GM)]], [[T-72AV (TURMS-T)|T-72 TURMS]] and [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopards 1]]/[[Leopard 2 (Family)|2]]), and aim at them, since HEAT-FS doesn't feature great damage against composite armours, which might get yourself killed. When facing multiple enemies, your main goal is not to kill them, but disable them (destroying gun breech/barrel, killing gunner, etc.) so that they don't pose an immediate threat and you can kill them later.

=== As a sniper: ===
This is another great performance of the T-72, as it has adequate shell velocity and penetration. HEAT-FS penetrates 550mm of armour at any distance, and it's muzzle speed is faster than most of other HEAT-FSs you will meet. Also, the APFSDS performs excellently because of it's awesome speed (~1760m/s) and high penetration (+ 425mm). Try to keep a distance of at least 1.00km and no more than 1.5 km when using HEAT, but the unlocking of sabot shells will increase your range almost indefinitely. Try to cover your lower glacis, as it is your only weakspot at range.

=== As a frontline support tank: ===
This playstyle is very risky, as your slow reverse speed will turn your tank into a coffin, but with access to the 3BM42 shot, it will become more viable. '''Do not, ever, do this alone. Always try to have at least two reliable teammates covering you.''' Your main goal in this playstyle is to cover offensives, and defend and attack bases. Cover weaker tanks by attracting fire and secure base capturers. In this mode, you should not focus on making experience for your own, like capturing bases, but to ensure the achievement of victory. This style will mostly take your tank as sacrifice, unless played very carefully and prudently, but victory multipliers will overcome your losses.

'''Enemies worth noting:'''

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

=== Pros and cons ===
'''Pros:'''

* Excellent composite armour protection
* Turret cheeks will chew up modern-day tank shells, invulnerable even to the mighty DM53.
* CONTACT-1 ERA coverage to front and sides
* Powerful main armament with autoloader, 3BM42 round, and laser rangefinder
* ERA provides great protection against chemical shells (~400 mm)
* 3BM42 shell will penetrate even the [[T-72AV (TURMS-T)|TURMS]], which is the cancer of any player who doesn't own it
* Barrel launched ATGMs, without extra reload time
* ESS and smoke grenades

'''Cons:'''

* Extremely prone to gun breech destruction, as in all post-war T-series
* Lack of suitable reverse speed (-4 km/h)
* Lack of thermals at rank VI
* ERA provides insignifcant protection against kinetic shells (~5 mm)
* Side armour is so thin that can be penetrated basically at any angle, which will inevitably ammo-rack you
* Lack of survivability (Small crew count and cramped interior, large ammo rack)
* Poor gun depression

== History ==


The T-72 was one of the most famous and widely produced Soviet main battle tanks of the Cold War era. Originating as a modification of the [[T-64A (1971)|T-64]], the T-72 retained its predecessor's composite armour, 125 mm smoothbore cannon, and compact dimensions, all modern features for the time. But it was intended to be easier to produce and maintain than the complex and unreliable T-64. Instead of the T-64's opposed piston engine, which promised high power in a compact package but turned out to be a mechanical nightmare, the T-72 used a more traditional V-46 engine with larger dimensions. The engine compartment and suspension were redesigned to suit the new engine. The original T-64 "MZ" autoloader was replaced with the "AZ" autoloader, which stored ammunition in two horizontal trays. The T-72 began to equip standard tank divisions and motorized units while elite units retained the T-64. The combat capabilities of the initial T-72 were very close despite its origin as a somewhat simplified T-64, as the heavier weight was compensated for by the greater engine power. The T-64 tended to have more advanced optics and fire control systems over its service life, and the later T-80 had much superior mobility, but the simple cost effectiveness and reliability of the T-72 made it an excellent tank for widespread deployment and export. It remains in service worldwide in many different variants and has arguably been a more successful design than its ostensibly higher-tech relatives.

The '''T-72B''' variant first appeared in 1985. At this time, the preceding [[T-72A]] had shown its age. The newest NATO tanks had guns and ammunition capable of penetrating early Soviet composite armour and the T-72A's fire control system was lacking. The [[T-64B]], introduced several years earlier, had improved armour and a new fire control system capable of supporting gun-launched ATGMs like the 9M112 "Kobra". The T-72B set out to meet these standards.

As part of the improvements, the protection was improved dramatically. The turret was constructed with high hardness steel and improved "Super Dolly Parton" composite armour that bulged the turret cheeks even further. The increased volume necessitated cuts underneath the turret cheeks/sides to allow the driver to open his hatch if the turret was rotated. The composite armour used polymer and steel NERA layers much like the [[Leopard 2A4|Leopard 2]] and [[M1 Abrams]] instead of the "Kvartz" ceramic filler used on earlier T-72As. This provided improved chemical protection on par with these two NATO MBTs and also easier serviceability: the NERA plates could be accessed and replaced in the field if damaged, whereas the sintered quartz blocks were cast with the turret in the factory and could not be repaired. Kinetic protection was increased to a reported figure of 550 mm RHA equivalent.

The hull composite armour was switched to a new 60-10-10-20-20-50 configuration: a 60 mm front plate, four high hardness plates of 10 mm and 20 mm thickness, and a 50 mm back plate. While this is technically spaced armour instead of composite armour, it offered significant improvements in kinetic protection over the older textolite composition. In fact, comparative testing of the T-72B's glacis armour and the [[T-80B|T-80BV]]'s configuration showed that it was immune to even overpressure shots using 3BM32 "Vant" depleted uranium APFSDS, which penetrated the T-80BV using standard charges. Chemical protection was also improved and the T-72B's upper glacis was capable of resisting HEAT-FS rounds, man-portable ATGMs, and older full-size ATGMs.

The armour upgrades played a large role in increasing the T-72B's weight to about 43 tons at combat weight compared to the T-72A's 41 tons. To cope with this, a V-84 engine producing 840 horsepower was installed. It was a close derivative of the V-46 and in theory should have been very easy to retrofit to existing T-72s. However, its increased power and heat generation required modifications to the T-72B design. An engineer recalled that the V-84 somehow developed less power than the V-46 when installed in the T-72A.

The T-72B received a new 1A40-1 sighting complex with a lead calculator, improved laser rangefinder, and support for 9M119 "Svir" gun-launched ATGMs through an improved night sight. The gunner could lase a moving target while looking down the sight and the system would calculate and display how many mils to lead by in a secondary eyepiece. From the gunner's view, the calculation result would be superimposed on the sight view. This made it easier for the tank to engage moving targets, which previously was unassisted on early T-72A models, but the system was not precise enough for reliable long distance shooting and lagged behind the [[M60A3 TTS|M60A3]]'s fire control system in ease of use.

Other minor changes included modifications to the autoloader to accommodate the Svir ATGMs and an improved 2E42-2 "Zhasmin" stabilizer system with an electric drive instead of hydraulics. The vehicle represented in War Thunder is equipped with Kontakt-1 explosive reactive armour, which became standard for T-72Bs out of the factory. The turret ERA was no longer mounted on brackets as on the [[T-64B]] or T-72AV, instead being placed directly on the turret surface. This more haphazard arrangement increased the coverage of the ERA but slightly decreased effectiveness due to suboptimal sloping towards incoming fire. Still, a T-72B with Kontakt-1 was virtually immune to single-charge chemical munitions. [[T-72B (1989)|Later production variants]] were capable of equipping improved Kontakt-5 ERA, which in turn made them resistant to even the best NATO APFSDS rounds at the time.

The T-72B successfully addressed the immediate problems facing the T-72A. The protection now matched or exceeded the new NATO MBTs that were capable of dispatching the previous model and the fire control upgrades provided a welcome increase in offensive capabilities. This was achieved without sacrificing ease of production and the T-72B was widely produced and exported like prior models. No improvements were made to its mobility, which was now exceeded by the Abrams and Leopard 2, and the fire control system was still inferior to Western tanks. Still, it provided a solid foundation for modernizations like the [[T-72B3]] and will likely stay in service for the next few decades. The famous T-90 had its beginnings as an upgraded "T-72BU" as well.

The T-72B did not see any combat with the Soviet Union. The succeeding Russian Federation has used the T-72B in Chechenya, Georgia, and elsewhere. Other customers and current users of the T-72B include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Laos, Morocco, and Syria.

===[[wt:en/news/6614-development-t-72b-necessary-improvements-en|Devblog]]===

By the middle of the 1980s, there was an objective need to upgrade the main battle tank of the Soviet Union - T-72 to modern battle performance values. The fact is that the vehicle seriously lacked firepower and modern fire control systems and its protection which wasn't bad at the time of conception, became obsolete due to the emergence of new powerful weapons. The big tank modernization program implied a comprehensive improvement of the T-72 in all its key characteristics.

In the early 80s, the guided weapon system under the name "Svir" was developed for the Soviet tanks with the ability to guide the missile via beam and launching it through the gun barrel. At the same time there was also work on development of the first generation of the "Contact-1" explosive reactive armour. Both of these novelties were in demand for the modernization of the T-72. The vehicle received a new combined hull armour pack for the upper frontal part which increases in size and its composition has been redistributed toward more steel. Also a new custom turret with larger dimensions has been installed, featuring new armour filler packs.

Due to an increased weight, the tank required a new engine which allowed it to maintain the good running characteristics of the base model. The upgraded version received the designation T-72B and was adopted in December 1984. This modification became the basis for a large number of versions and upgrades which made the T-72 the most mass produced 2nd generation MBT in the world. As an upgraded version this tank continues to serve in the Russian army and many other countries.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=ussr&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=medium_tank&vehicle=ussr_t_72b Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

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

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|V3Gfl_N4JV8|'''The Shooting Range #192''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:32 discusses the T-72B.}}

== 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/6614-development-t-72b-necessary-improvements-en|[Devblog] T-72B: Necessary Improvements]]

{{USSR medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

T-72B

2021-06-26T23:46:17Z

U8359201: /* Pros and cons */ Added two items

{{About
| about = Soviet medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = T-72 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=ussr_t_72b
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].

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


The T-72B is an up-armoured and up-gunned version of the T-72A, although this still does not protect the "weak spots" that most Soviet tanks have (weak lower front plate, driver optics etc.). The T-72B has more armour on the upper plate of the hull, that provides around 500 mm to 900 mm of effective armour protection.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Armour!!Front (Slope angle)!!Sides!!Rear!!Roof
|-
|Hull||60 mm (60°)||80 mm ''Top''
20 mm ''Bottom''
|40 mm||20 - 30 mm
|-
|Turret||Variable thickness armour ''Turret front''
220-600 mm ''Gun mantlet''
|240 - 118 mm||60 - 115 mm||45 mm
|-
|Cupola||100 mm (variable angles)||100 mm||100 mm||40 mm
|}

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,302|rbMinHp=743}}

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

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

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

{{main|2A46M-1 (125 mm)}}

The T-72B is armed with the same 125 mm cannon found in the [[T-80B]], with its 3BM42 "Mango" round proving competitive against other Rank VII offerings. As with previous Russian MBTs, the main gun is auto-loaded, so the loss of a crew member does not affect the loading times and the 7.1-second loading speed is competitive when compared to the 120 mm guns on the Leopard 2A5 and M1A2 Abrams. One notable perk of the auto-loader mechanism is that the gun will be reloaded even if the gunner is knocked out, if you're fighting a fire, or repairing. It does however also come with the drawbacks of a reload time that cannot be improved, the large ammo carousel concentric with the turret, and the chance of a single penetrating shot detonating the ammo racks. Another thing to note, since update 1.97 if the tank's battery runs out of power, the auto loader will not function and the cannon will need to be manually loaded, which is a much slower process.

As with the T-80B and T-64B, the T-72B can launch missiles out of its gun. Unlike the previous two vehicles though, it gets the upgraded 9M119 which has 700 mm of penetration compared to the previous ATGM's 650 mm penetration. These ATGM's can prove useful for shooting over hills to hit a hiding enemy or to engage helicopters or low-flying aircraft.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[2A46M-1 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46M-1]] || 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" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 22.8 || 31.6 || 38.4 || 42.5 || 45.2 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.3 || 16.8 || 20.4 || 22.6 || 24.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550
|-
| 3OF26 || HE || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42
|-
| 3BM22 || APFSDS || 425 || 420 || 415 || 405 || 393 || 380
|-
| 9M119 || ATGM || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700
|-
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 479 || 477 || 470 || 462 || 453 || 445
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 905 || 19 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 2,790 || 65° || 72° || 77°
|-
| 3OF26 || HE || 850 || 23 || 0 || 0.1 || 5,240 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| 3BM22 || APFSDS || 1,760 || 4.83 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 76° || 77° || 80°
|-
| 9M119 || ATGM || 400 || 23.3 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 5,540 || 80° || 82° || 90°
|-
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 1,700 || 4.85 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''45''' || 41 ''(+4)'' || 34 ''(+11)'' || 22 ''(+23)'' || 0 ''(+45)'' || No
|-
|}

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

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

The T-72B has access to a coaxial PKT 7.76 mm machine gun and a 12.7 mm NSVT anti-aircraft machine gun, which is mounted above the commander's hatch. The PKT is rarely useful in top tier matches, but the NSVT can be quite useful. The NSVT has 29 mm of penetration, allowing it to damage some light vehicles like IFVs and enemy SPAA. Additionally it is useful to engage enemy helicopters when they come close. Machine guns can also be used to try and shoot down enemy ATGMs, but this is unreliable. They can also be used to shoot the ground in front of the tank for a quick smoke screen of sorts, confusing the enemy and blocking their view for a clean shot.

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

== Usage in battles ==


There are three main ways to use the T-72B: As a flanker, as a sniper, or as a frontline support tank.

=== As a flanker: ===
The T-72B performs awesomely as a flanker, especially with a new engine. In many maps, as Berlin, Maginot Line or Mozdok, it will be one of the best playstyles. If APFSDS hasn't been researched yet, try to know your most common opponent's racks (i.e. [[XM-1 (Chrysler)]]/[[XM-1 (GM)|(GM)]], [[T-72AV (TURMS-T)|T-72 TURMS]] and [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopards 1]]/[[Leopard 2 (Family)|2]]), and aim at them, since HEAT-FS doesn't feature great damage against composite armours, which might get yourself killed. When facing multiple enemies, your main goal is not to kill them, but disable them (destroying gun breech/barrel, killing gunner, etc.) so that they don't pose an immediate threat and you can kill them later.

=== As a sniper: ===
This is another great performance of the T-72, as it has adequate shell velocity and penetration. HEAT-FS penetrates 550mm of armour at any distance, and it's muzzle speed is faster than most of other HEAT-FSs you will meet. Also, the APFSDS performs excellently because of it's awesome speed (~1760m/s) and high penetration (+ 425mm). Try to keep a distance of at least 1.00km and no more than 1.5 km when using HEAT, but the unlocking of sabot shells will increase your range almost indefinitely. Try to cover your lower glacis, as it is your only weakspot at range.

=== As a frontline support tank: ===
This playstyle is very risky, as your slow reverse speed will turn your tank into a coffin, but with access to the 3BM42 shot, it will become more viable. '''Do not, ever, do this alone. Always try to have at least two reliable teammates covering you.''' Your main goal in this playstyle is to cover offensives, and defend and attack bases. Cover weaker tanks by attracting fire and secure base capturers. In this mode, you should not focus on making experience for your own, like capturing bases, but to ensure the achievement of victory. This style will mostly take your tank as sacrifice, unless played very carefully and prudently, but victory multipliers will overcome your losses.

'''Enemies worth noting:'''

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

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Excellent composite armour protection
* Turret cheeks will chew up modern-day tank shells, invulnerable even to the mighty DM53.
* CONTACT-1 ERA coverage to front and sides
* Powerful main armament with autoloader, 3BM42 round, and laser rangefinder
* ERA provides great protection against chemical shells (~400 mm)
* 3BM42 shell will penetrate even the [[T-72AV (TURMS-T)|TURMS]], which is the cancer of any player who doesn't own it
* Barrel launched ATGMs, without extra reload time
* ESS and smoke grenades

'''Cons:'''

* Extremely prone to gun breech destruction, as in all post-war T-series
* Lack of suitable reverse speed (-4 km/h)
* Lack of thermals at rank VI
* ERA provides insignifcant protection against kinetic shells (~5 mm)
* Side armour is so thin that can be penetrated basically at any angle, which will inevitably ammo-rack you
* Lack of survivability (Small crew count and cramped interior, large ammo rack)
* Poor gun depression

== History ==


The T-72 was one of the most famous and widely produced Soviet main battle tanks of the Cold War era. Originating as a modification of the [[T-64A (1971)|T-64]], the T-72 retained its predecessor's composite armour, 125 mm smoothbore cannon, and compact dimensions, all modern features for the time. But it was intended to be easier to produce and maintain than the complex and unreliable T-64. Instead of the T-64's opposed piston engine, which promised high power in a compact package but turned out to be a mechanical nightmare, the T-72 used a more traditional V-46 engine with larger dimensions. The engine compartment and suspension were redesigned to suit the new engine. The original T-64 "MZ" autoloader was replaced with the "AZ" autoloader, which stored ammunition in two horizontal trays. The T-72 began to equip standard tank divisions and motorized units while elite units retained the T-64. The combat capabilities of the initial T-72 were very close despite its origin as a somewhat simplified T-64, as the heavier weight was compensated for by the greater engine power. The T-64 tended to have more advanced optics and fire control systems over its service life, and the later T-80 had much superior mobility, but the simple cost effectiveness and reliability of the T-72 made it an excellent tank for widespread deployment and export. It remains in service worldwide in many different variants and has arguably been a more successful design than its ostensibly higher-tech relatives.

The '''T-72B''' variant first appeared in 1985. At this time, the preceding [[T-72A]] had shown its age. The newest NATO tanks had guns and ammunition capable of penetrating early Soviet composite armour and the T-72A's fire control system was lacking. The [[T-64B]], introduced several years earlier, had improved armour and a new fire control system capable of supporting gun-launched ATGMs like the 9M112 "Kobra". The T-72B set out to meet these standards.

As part of the improvements, the protection was improved dramatically. The turret was constructed with high hardness steel and improved "Super Dolly Parton" composite armour that bulged the turret cheeks even further. The increased volume necessitated cuts underneath the turret cheeks/sides to allow the driver to open his hatch if the turret was rotated. The composite armour used polymer and steel NERA layers much like the [[Leopard 2A4|Leopard 2]] and [[M1 Abrams]] instead of the "Kvartz" ceramic filler used on earlier T-72As. This provided improved chemical protection on par with these two NATO MBTs and also easier serviceability: the NERA plates could be accessed and replaced in the field if damaged, whereas the sintered quartz blocks were cast with the turret in the factory and could not be repaired. Kinetic protection was increased to a reported figure of 550 mm RHA equivalent.

The hull composite armour was switched to a new 60-10-10-20-20-50 configuration: a 60 mm front plate, four high hardness plates of 10 mm and 20 mm thickness, and a 50 mm back plate. While this is technically spaced armour instead of composite armour, it offered significant improvements in kinetic protection over the older textolite composition. In fact, comparative testing of the T-72B's glacis armour and the [[T-80B|T-80BV]]'s configuration showed that it was immune to even overpressure shots using 3BM32 "Vant" depleted uranium APFSDS, which penetrated the T-80BV using standard charges. Chemical protection was also improved and the T-72B's upper glacis was capable of resisting HEAT-FS rounds, man-portable ATGMs, and older full-size ATGMs.

The armour upgrades played a large role in increasing the T-72B's weight to about 43 tons at combat weight compared to the T-72A's 41 tons. To cope with this, a V-84 engine producing 840 horsepower was installed. It was a close derivative of the V-46 and in theory should have been very easy to retrofit to existing T-72s. However, its increased power and heat generation required modifications to the T-72B design. An engineer recalled that the V-84 somehow developed less power than the V-46 when installed in the T-72A.

The T-72B received a new 1A40-1 sighting complex with a lead calculator, improved laser rangefinder, and support for 9M119 "Svir" gun-launched ATGMs through an improved night sight. The gunner could lase a moving target while looking down the sight and the system would calculate and display how many mils to lead by in a secondary eyepiece. From the gunner's view, the calculation result would be superimposed on the sight view. This made it easier for the tank to engage moving targets, which previously was unassisted on early T-72A models, but the system was not precise enough for reliable long distance shooting and lagged behind the [[M60A3 TTS|M60A3]]'s fire control system in ease of use.

Other minor changes included modifications to the autoloader to accommodate the Svir ATGMs and an improved 2E42-2 "Zhasmin" stabilizer system with an electric drive instead of hydraulics. The vehicle represented in War Thunder is equipped with Kontakt-1 explosive reactive armour, which became standard for T-72Bs out of the factory. The turret ERA was no longer mounted on brackets as on the [[T-64B]] or T-72AV, instead being placed directly on the turret surface. This more haphazard arrangement increased the coverage of the ERA but slightly decreased effectiveness due to suboptimal sloping towards incoming fire. Still, a T-72B with Kontakt-1 was virtually immune to single-charge chemical munitions. [[T-72B (1989)|Later production variants]] were capable of equipping improved Kontakt-5 ERA, which in turn made them resistant to even the best NATO APFSDS rounds at the time.

The T-72B successfully addressed the immediate problems facing the T-72A. The protection now matched or exceeded the new NATO MBTs that were capable of dispatching the previous model and the fire control upgrades provided a welcome increase in offensive capabilities. This was achieved without sacrificing ease of production and the T-72B was widely produced and exported like prior models. No improvements were made to its mobility, which was now exceeded by the Abrams and Leopard 2, and the fire control system was still inferior to Western tanks. Still, it provided a solid foundation for modernizations like the [[T-72B3]] and will likely stay in service for the next few decades. The famous T-90 had its beginnings as an upgraded "T-72BU" as well.

The T-72B did not see any combat with the Soviet Union. The succeeding Russian Federation has used the T-72B in Chechenya, Georgia, and elsewhere. Other customers and current users of the T-72B include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Laos, Morocco, and Syria.

===[[wt:en/news/6614-development-t-72b-necessary-improvements-en|Devblog]]===

By the middle of the 1980s, there was an objective need to upgrade the main battle tank of the Soviet Union - T-72 to modern battle performance values. The fact is that the vehicle seriously lacked firepower and modern fire control systems and its protection which wasn't bad at the time of conception, became obsolete due to the emergence of new powerful weapons. The big tank modernization program implied a comprehensive improvement of the T-72 in all its key characteristics.

In the early 80s, the guided weapon system under the name "Svir" was developed for the Soviet tanks with the ability to guide the missile via beam and launching it through the gun barrel. At the same time there was also work on development of the first generation of the "Contact-1" explosive reactive armour. Both of these novelties were in demand for the modernization of the T-72. The vehicle received a new combined hull armour pack for the upper frontal part which increases in size and its composition has been redistributed toward more steel. Also a new custom turret with larger dimensions has been installed, featuring new armour filler packs.

Due to an increased weight, the tank required a new engine which allowed it to maintain the good running characteristics of the base model. The upgraded version received the designation T-72B and was adopted in December 1984. This modification became the basis for a large number of versions and upgrades which made the T-72 the most mass produced 2nd generation MBT in the world. As an upgraded version this tank continues to serve in the Russian army and many other countries.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=ussr&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=medium_tank&vehicle=ussr_t_72b Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

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

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|V3Gfl_N4JV8|'''The Shooting Range #192''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:32 discusses the T-72B.}}

== 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/6614-development-t-72b-necessary-improvements-en|[Devblog] T-72B: Necessary Improvements]]

{{USSR medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

T-72B

2021-06-26T23:42:59Z

U8359201: Minor spelling edit

{{About
| about = Soviet medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = T-72 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=ussr_t_72b
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].

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


The T-72B is an up-armoured and up-gunned version of the T-72A, although this still does not protect the "weak spots" that most Soviet tanks have (weak lower front plate, driver optics etc.). The T-72B has more armour on the upper plate of the hull, that provides around 500 mm to 900 mm of effective armour protection.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Armour!!Front (Slope angle)!!Sides!!Rear!!Roof
|-
|Hull||60 mm (60°)||80 mm ''Top''
20 mm ''Bottom''
|40 mm||20 - 30 mm
|-
|Turret||Variable thickness armour ''Turret front''
220-600 mm ''Gun mantlet''
|240 - 118 mm||60 - 115 mm||45 mm
|-
|Cupola||100 mm (variable angles)||100 mm||100 mm||40 mm
|}

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,302|rbMinHp=743}}

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

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

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

{{main|2A46M-1 (125 mm)}}

The T-72B is armed with the same 125 mm cannon found in the [[T-80B]], with its 3BM42 "Mango" round proving competitive against other Rank VII offerings. As with previous Russian MBTs, the main gun is auto-loaded, so the loss of a crew member does not affect the loading times and the 7.1-second loading speed is competitive when compared to the 120 mm guns on the Leopard 2A5 and M1A2 Abrams. One notable perk of the auto-loader mechanism is that the gun will be reloaded even if the gunner is knocked out, if you're fighting a fire, or repairing. It does however also come with the drawbacks of a reload time that cannot be improved, the large ammo carousel concentric with the turret, and the chance of a single penetrating shot detonating the ammo racks. Another thing to note, since update 1.97 if the tank's battery runs out of power, the auto loader will not function and the cannon will need to be manually loaded, which is a much slower process.

As with the T-80B and T-64B, the T-72B can launch missiles out of its gun. Unlike the previous two vehicles though, it gets the upgraded 9M119 which has 700 mm of penetration compared to the previous ATGM's 650 mm penetration. These ATGM's can prove useful for shooting over hills to hit a hiding enemy or to engage helicopters or low-flying aircraft.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[2A46M-1 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46M-1]] || 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" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 22.8 || 31.6 || 38.4 || 42.5 || 45.2 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.3 || 16.8 || 20.4 || 22.6 || 24.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550
|-
| 3OF26 || HE || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42
|-
| 3BM22 || APFSDS || 425 || 420 || 415 || 405 || 393 || 380
|-
| 9M119 || ATGM || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700
|-
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 479 || 477 || 470 || 462 || 453 || 445
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 905 || 19 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 2,790 || 65° || 72° || 77°
|-
| 3OF26 || HE || 850 || 23 || 0 || 0.1 || 5,240 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| 3BM22 || APFSDS || 1,760 || 4.83 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 76° || 77° || 80°
|-
| 9M119 || ATGM || 400 || 23.3 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 5,540 || 80° || 82° || 90°
|-
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 1,700 || 4.85 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''45''' || 41 ''(+4)'' || 34 ''(+11)'' || 22 ''(+23)'' || 0 ''(+45)'' || No
|-
|}

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

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

The T-72B has access to a coaxial PKT 7.76 mm machine gun and a 12.7 mm NSVT anti-aircraft machine gun, which is mounted above the commander's hatch. The PKT is rarely useful in top tier matches, but the NSVT can be quite useful. The NSVT has 29 mm of penetration, allowing it to damage some light vehicles like IFVs and enemy SPAA. Additionally it is useful to engage enemy helicopters when they come close. Machine guns can also be used to try and shoot down enemy ATGMs, but this is unreliable. They can also be used to shoot the ground in front of the tank for a quick smoke screen of sorts, confusing the enemy and blocking their view for a clean shot.

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

== Usage in battles ==


There are three main ways to use the T-72B: As a flanker, as a sniper, or as a frontline support tank.

=== As a flanker: ===
The T-72B performs awesomely as a flanker, especially with a new engine. In many maps, as Berlin, Maginot Line or Mozdok, it will be one of the best playstyles. If APFSDS hasn't been researched yet, try to know your most common opponent's racks (i.e. [[XM-1 (Chrysler)]]/[[XM-1 (GM)|(GM)]], [[T-72AV (TURMS-T)|T-72 TURMS]] and [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopards 1]]/[[Leopard 2 (Family)|2]]), and aim at them, since HEAT-FS doesn't feature great damage against composite armours, which might get yourself killed. When facing multiple enemies, your main goal is not to kill them, but disable them (destroying gun breech/barrel, killing gunner, etc.) so that they don't pose an immediate threat and you can kill them later.

=== As a sniper: ===
This is another great performance of the T-72, as it has adequate shell velocity and penetration. HEAT-FS penetrates 550mm of armour at any distance, and it's muzzle speed is faster than most of other HEAT-FSs you will meet. Also, the APFSDS performs excellently because of it's awesome speed (~1760m/s) and high penetration (+ 425mm). Try to keep a distance of at least 1.00km and no more than 1.5 km when using HEAT, but the unlocking of sabot shells will increase your range almost indefinitely. Try to cover your lower glacis, as it is your only weakspot at range.

=== As a frontline support tank: ===
This playstyle is very risky, as your slow reverse speed will turn your tank into a coffin, but with access to the 3BM42 shot, it will become more viable. '''Do not, ever, do this alone. Always try to have at least two reliable teammates covering you.''' Your main goal in this playstyle is to cover offensives, and defend and attack bases. Cover weaker tanks by attracting fire and secure base capturers. In this mode, you should not focus on making experience for your own, like capturing bases, but to ensure the achievement of victory. This style will mostly take your tank as sacrifice, unless played very carefully and prudently, but victory multipliers will overcome your losses.

'''Enemies worth noting:'''

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

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Excellent composite armour protection
* Turret cheeks will chew up modern-day tank shells, invulnerable even to the mighty DM53.
* CONTACT-1 ERA coverage to front and sides
* Powerful main armament with autoloader, 3BM42 round, and laser rangefinder
* ERA provides great protection against chemical shells (~400 mm).
* 3BM42 shell will penetrate even the [[T-72AV (TURMS-T)|TURMS]], which is the cancer of any player who doesn't own it
* Barrel launched ATGMs, without extra reload time
* ESS and smoke grenades

'''Cons:'''

* Lack of suitable reverse speed (-4 km/h)
* Lack of thermals at rank VI
* ERA provides insignifcant protection against kinetic shells (~5 mm)
* Side armour is so thin that can be penetrated basically at any angle, which will inevitably ammo-rack you
* Lack of survivability (Small crew count and cramped interior, large ammo rack)
* Poor gun depression

== History ==


The T-72 was one of the most famous and widely produced Soviet main battle tanks of the Cold War era. Originating as a modification of the [[T-64A (1971)|T-64]], the T-72 retained its predecessor's composite armour, 125 mm smoothbore cannon, and compact dimensions, all modern features for the time. But it was intended to be easier to produce and maintain than the complex and unreliable T-64. Instead of the T-64's opposed piston engine, which promised high power in a compact package but turned out to be a mechanical nightmare, the T-72 used a more traditional V-46 engine with larger dimensions. The engine compartment and suspension were redesigned to suit the new engine. The original T-64 "MZ" autoloader was replaced with the "AZ" autoloader, which stored ammunition in two horizontal trays. The T-72 began to equip standard tank divisions and motorized units while elite units retained the T-64. The combat capabilities of the initial T-72 were very close despite its origin as a somewhat simplified T-64, as the heavier weight was compensated for by the greater engine power. The T-64 tended to have more advanced optics and fire control systems over its service life, and the later T-80 had much superior mobility, but the simple cost effectiveness and reliability of the T-72 made it an excellent tank for widespread deployment and export. It remains in service worldwide in many different variants and has arguably been a more successful design than its ostensibly higher-tech relatives.

The '''T-72B''' variant first appeared in 1985. At this time, the preceding [[T-72A]] had shown its age. The newest NATO tanks had guns and ammunition capable of penetrating early Soviet composite armour and the T-72A's fire control system was lacking. The [[T-64B]], introduced several years earlier, had improved armour and a new fire control system capable of supporting gun-launched ATGMs like the 9M112 "Kobra". The T-72B set out to meet these standards.

As part of the improvements, the protection was improved dramatically. The turret was constructed with high hardness steel and improved "Super Dolly Parton" composite armour that bulged the turret cheeks even further. The increased volume necessitated cuts underneath the turret cheeks/sides to allow the driver to open his hatch if the turret was rotated. The composite armour used polymer and steel NERA layers much like the [[Leopard 2A4|Leopard 2]] and [[M1 Abrams]] instead of the "Kvartz" ceramic filler used on earlier T-72As. This provided improved chemical protection on par with these two NATO MBTs and also easier serviceability: the NERA plates could be accessed and replaced in the field if damaged, whereas the sintered quartz blocks were cast with the turret in the factory and could not be repaired. Kinetic protection was increased to a reported figure of 550 mm RHA equivalent.

The hull composite armour was switched to a new 60-10-10-20-20-50 configuration: a 60 mm front plate, four high hardness plates of 10 mm and 20 mm thickness, and a 50 mm back plate. While this is technically spaced armour instead of composite armour, it offered significant improvements in kinetic protection over the older textolite composition. In fact, comparative testing of the T-72B's glacis armour and the [[T-80B|T-80BV]]'s configuration showed that it was immune to even overpressure shots using 3BM32 "Vant" depleted uranium APFSDS, which penetrated the T-80BV using standard charges. Chemical protection was also improved and the T-72B's upper glacis was capable of resisting HEAT-FS rounds, man-portable ATGMs, and older full-size ATGMs.

The armour upgrades played a large role in increasing the T-72B's weight to about 43 tons at combat weight compared to the T-72A's 41 tons. To cope with this, a V-84 engine producing 840 horsepower was installed. It was a close derivative of the V-46 and in theory should have been very easy to retrofit to existing T-72s. However, its increased power and heat generation required modifications to the T-72B design. An engineer recalled that the V-84 somehow developed less power than the V-46 when installed in the T-72A.

The T-72B received a new 1A40-1 sighting complex with a lead calculator, improved laser rangefinder, and support for 9M119 "Svir" gun-launched ATGMs through an improved night sight. The gunner could lase a moving target while looking down the sight and the system would calculate and display how many mils to lead by in a secondary eyepiece. From the gunner's view, the calculation result would be superimposed on the sight view. This made it easier for the tank to engage moving targets, which previously was unassisted on early T-72A models, but the system was not precise enough for reliable long distance shooting and lagged behind the [[M60A3 TTS|M60A3]]'s fire control system in ease of use.

Other minor changes included modifications to the autoloader to accommodate the Svir ATGMs and an improved 2E42-2 "Zhasmin" stabilizer system with an electric drive instead of hydraulics. The vehicle represented in War Thunder is equipped with Kontakt-1 explosive reactive armour, which became standard for T-72Bs out of the factory. The turret ERA was no longer mounted on brackets as on the [[T-64B]] or T-72AV, instead being placed directly on the turret surface. This more haphazard arrangement increased the coverage of the ERA but slightly decreased effectiveness due to suboptimal sloping towards incoming fire. Still, a T-72B with Kontakt-1 was virtually immune to single-charge chemical munitions. [[T-72B (1989)|Later production variants]] were capable of equipping improved Kontakt-5 ERA, which in turn made them resistant to even the best NATO APFSDS rounds at the time.

The T-72B successfully addressed the immediate problems facing the T-72A. The protection now matched or exceeded the new NATO MBTs that were capable of dispatching the previous model and the fire control upgrades provided a welcome increase in offensive capabilities. This was achieved without sacrificing ease of production and the T-72B was widely produced and exported like prior models. No improvements were made to its mobility, which was now exceeded by the Abrams and Leopard 2, and the fire control system was still inferior to Western tanks. Still, it provided a solid foundation for modernizations like the [[T-72B3]] and will likely stay in service for the next few decades. The famous T-90 had its beginnings as an upgraded "T-72BU" as well.

The T-72B did not see any combat with the Soviet Union. The succeeding Russian Federation has used the T-72B in Chechenya, Georgia, and elsewhere. Other customers and current users of the T-72B include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Laos, Morocco, and Syria.

===[[wt:en/news/6614-development-t-72b-necessary-improvements-en|Devblog]]===

By the middle of the 1980s, there was an objective need to upgrade the main battle tank of the Soviet Union - T-72 to modern battle performance values. The fact is that the vehicle seriously lacked firepower and modern fire control systems and its protection which wasn't bad at the time of conception, became obsolete due to the emergence of new powerful weapons. The big tank modernization program implied a comprehensive improvement of the T-72 in all its key characteristics.

In the early 80s, the guided weapon system under the name "Svir" was developed for the Soviet tanks with the ability to guide the missile via beam and launching it through the gun barrel. At the same time there was also work on development of the first generation of the "Contact-1" explosive reactive armour. Both of these novelties were in demand for the modernization of the T-72. The vehicle received a new combined hull armour pack for the upper frontal part which increases in size and its composition has been redistributed toward more steel. Also a new custom turret with larger dimensions has been installed, featuring new armour filler packs.

Due to an increased weight, the tank required a new engine which allowed it to maintain the good running characteristics of the base model. The upgraded version received the designation T-72B and was adopted in December 1984. This modification became the basis for a large number of versions and upgrades which made the T-72 the most mass produced 2nd generation MBT in the world. As an upgraded version this tank continues to serve in the Russian army and many other countries.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=ussr&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=medium_tank&vehicle=ussr_t_72b Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

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

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|V3Gfl_N4JV8|'''The Shooting Range #192''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:32 discusses the T-72B.}}

== 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/6614-development-t-72b-necessary-improvements-en|[Devblog] T-72B: Necessary Improvements]]

{{USSR medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

T-72B

2021-06-26T23:26:54Z

U8359201: /* Usage in battles */ Increased pros and cons section, described multiple playstyles.

{{About
| about = Soviet medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = T-72 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=ussr_t_72b
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].

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


The T-72B is an up-armoured and up-gunned version of the T-72A, although this still does not protect the "weak spots" that most Soviet tanks have (weak lower front plate, driver optics etc.). The T-72B has more armour on the upper plate of the hull, that provides around 500 mm to 900 mm of effective armour protection.

{| class="wikitable"
|-
!Armour!!Front (Slope angle)!!Sides!!Rear!!Roof
|-
|Hull||60 mm (60°)||80 mm ''Top''
20 mm ''Bottom''
|40 mm||20 - 30 mm
|-
|Turret||Variable thickness armour ''Turret front''
220-600 mm ''Gun mantlet''
|240 - 118 mm||60 - 115 mm||45 mm
|-
|Cupola||100 mm (variable angles)||100 mm||100 mm||40 mm
|}

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,302|rbMinHp=743}}

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

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

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

{{main|2A46M-1 (125 mm)}}

The T-72B is armed with the same 125 mm cannon found in the [[T-80B]], with its 3BM42 "Mango" round proving competitive against other Rank VII offerings. As with previous Russian MBTs, the main gun is auto-loaded, so the loss of a crew member does not affect the loading times and the 7.1-second loading speed is competitive when compared to the 120 mm guns on the Leopard 2A5 and M1A2 Abrams. One notable perk of the auto-loader mechanism is that the gun will be reloaded even if the gunner is knocked out, if you're fighting a fire, or repairing. It does however also come with the drawbacks of a reload time that cannot be improved, the large ammo carousel concentric with the turret, and the chance of a single penetrating shot detonating the ammo racks. Another thing to note, since update 1.97 if the tank's battery runs out of power, the auto loader will not function and the cannon will need to be manually loaded, which is a much slower process.

As with the T-80B and T-64B, the T-72B can launch missiles out of its gun. Unlike the previous two vehicles though, it gets the upgraded 9M119 which has 700 mm of penetration compared to the previous ATGM's 650 mm penetration. These ATGM's can prove useful for shooting over hills to hit a hiding enemy or to engage helicopters or low-flying aircraft.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[2A46M-1 (125 mm)|125 mm 2A46M-1]] || 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" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -6°/+13° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 22.8 || 31.6 || 38.4 || 42.5 || 45.2 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 7.10
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.3 || 16.8 || 20.4 || 22.6 || 24.0
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550 || 550
|-
| 3OF26 || HE || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42 || 42
|-
| 3BM22 || APFSDS || 425 || 420 || 415 || 405 || 393 || 380
|-
| 9M119 || ATGM || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700 || 700
|-
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 479 || 477 || 470 || 462 || 453 || 445
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| 3BK18M || HEATFS || 905 || 19 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 2,790 || 65° || 72° || 77°
|-
| 3OF26 || HE || 850 || 23 || 0 || 0.1 || 5,240 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| 3BM22 || APFSDS || 1,760 || 4.83 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 76° || 77° || 80°
|-
| 9M119 || ATGM || 400 || 23.3 || 0.05 || 0.1 || 5,540 || 80° || 82° || 90°
|-
| 3BM42 || APFSDS || 1,700 || 4.85 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''45''' || 41 ''(+4)'' || 34 ''(+11)'' || 22 ''(+23)'' || 0 ''(+45)'' || No
|-
|}

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

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

The T-72B has access to a coaxial PKT 7.76 mm machine gun and a 12.7 mm NSVT anti-aircraft machine gun, which is mounted above the commander's hatch. The PKT is rarely useful in top tier matches, but the NSVT can be quite useful. The NSVT has 29 mm of penetration, allowing it to damage some light vehicles like IFVs and enemy SPAA. Additionally it is useful to engage enemy helicopters when they come close. Machine guns can also be used to try and shoot down enemy ATGMs, but this is unreliable. They can also be used to shoot the ground in front of the tank for a quick smoke screen of sorts, confusing the enemy and blocking their view for a clean shot.

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

== Usage in battles ==


There are three main ways to use the T-72B: As a flanker, as a sniper, or as a frontline support tank.

=== As a flanker: ===
The T-72B performs awesomely as a flanker, especially with a new engine. In many maps, as Berlin, Maginot Line or Mozdok, it will be one of the best playstyles. If APFSDS hasn't been researched yet, try to know your most common opponent's racks (i.e. [[XM-1 (Chrysler)]]/[[XM-1 (GM)|(GM)]], [[T-72AV (TURMS-T)|T-72 TURMS]] and [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopards 1]]/[[Leopard 2 (Family)|2]]), and aim at them, since HEAT-FS doesn't feature great damage against composite armours, which might get yourself killed. When facing multiple enemies, your main goal is not to kill them, but disable them (destroying gun breech/barrel, killing gunner, etc.) so that they don't pose an immediate threat and you can kill them later.

=== As a sniper: ===
This is another great performance of the T-72, as it has adequate shell velocity and penetration. HEAT-FS penetrates 550mm of armour at any distance, and it's muzzle speed is faster than most of other HEAT-FSs you will meet. Also, the APFSDS performs excellently because of it's awesome speed (~1760m/s) and high penetration (+ 425mm). Try to keep a distance of at least 1.00km and no more than 1.5 km when using HEAT, but the unlocking of sabot shells will increase your range almost indefinitely. Try to coverr yor lower glacis, as it is your only weakspot at range.

=== As a frontline support tank: ===
This playstyle is very risky, as your slow reverse speed will turn your tank into a coffin, but with access to the 3BM42 shot, it will become more viable. '''Do not, ever, do this alone. Always try to have at least two reliable teammates covering you.''' Your main goal in this playstyle is to cover offensives, defend and attack bases. Cover weaker tanks by attracting fire and secure base capturers. In this mode, you should not focus on making experience for your own, like capturing bases, but to ensure the achievement of victory. This style will mostly take your tank as sacrifice, unless played very carefully and prudently, but victory multipliers will overcome your losses.

'''Enemies worth noting:'''

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

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Excellent composite armour protection
* Turret cheeks will chew up modern-day tank shells, invulnerable even to the mighty DM53.
* CONTACT-1 ERA coverage to front and sides
* Powerful main armament with autoloader, 3BM42 round, and laser rangefinder
* ERA provides great protection against chemical shells (~400 mm).
* 3BM42 shell will penetrate even the [[T-72AV (TURMS-T)|TURMS]], which is the cancer of any player who doesn't own it
* Barrel launched ATGMs, without extra reload time
* ESS and smoke grenades

'''Cons:'''

* Lack of suitable reverse speed (-4 km/h)
* Lack of thermals at rank VI
* ERA provides insignifcant protection against kinetic shells (~5 mm)
* Side armour is so thin that can be penetrated basically at any angle, which will inevitably ammo-rack you
* Lack of survivability (Small crew count and cramped interior, large ammo rack)
* Poor gun depression

== History ==


The T-72 was one of the most famous and widely produced Soviet main battle tanks of the Cold War era. Originating as a modification of the [[T-64A (1971)|T-64]], the T-72 retained its predecessor's composite armour, 125 mm smoothbore cannon, and compact dimensions, all modern features for the time. But it was intended to be easier to produce and maintain than the complex and unreliable T-64. Instead of the T-64's opposed piston engine, which promised high power in a compact package but turned out to be a mechanical nightmare, the T-72 used a more traditional V-46 engine with larger dimensions. The engine compartment and suspension were redesigned to suit the new engine. The original T-64 "MZ" autoloader was replaced with the "AZ" autoloader, which stored ammunition in two horizontal trays. The T-72 began to equip standard tank divisions and motorized units while elite units retained the T-64. The combat capabilities of the initial T-72 were very close despite its origin as a somewhat simplified T-64, as the heavier weight was compensated for by the greater engine power. The T-64 tended to have more advanced optics and fire control systems over its service life, and the later T-80 had much superior mobility, but the simple cost effectiveness and reliability of the T-72 made it an excellent tank for widespread deployment and export. It remains in service worldwide in many different variants and has arguably been a more successful design than its ostensibly higher-tech relatives.

The '''T-72B''' variant first appeared in 1985. At this time, the preceding [[T-72A]] had shown its age. The newest NATO tanks had guns and ammunition capable of penetrating early Soviet composite armour and the T-72A's fire control system was lacking. The [[T-64B]], introduced several years earlier, had improved armour and a new fire control system capable of supporting gun-launched ATGMs like the 9M112 "Kobra". The T-72B set out to meet these standards.

As part of the improvements, the protection was improved dramatically. The turret was constructed with high hardness steel and improved "Super Dolly Parton" composite armour that bulged the turret cheeks even further. The increased volume necessitated cuts underneath the turret cheeks/sides to allow the driver to open his hatch if the turret was rotated. The composite armour used polymer and steel NERA layers much like the [[Leopard 2A4|Leopard 2]] and [[M1 Abrams]] instead of the "Kvartz" ceramic filler used on earlier T-72As. This provided improved chemical protection on par with these two NATO MBTs and also easier serviceability: the NERA plates could be accessed and replaced in the field if damaged, whereas the sintered quartz blocks were cast with the turret in the factory and could not be repaired. Kinetic protection was increased to a reported figure of 550 mm RHA equivalent.

The hull composite armour was switched to a new 60-10-10-20-20-50 configuration: a 60 mm front plate, four high hardness plates of 10 mm and 20 mm thickness, and a 50 mm back plate. While this is technically spaced armour instead of composite armour, it offered significant improvements in kinetic protection over the older textolite composition. In fact, comparative testing of the T-72B's glacis armour and the [[T-80B|T-80BV]]'s configuration showed that it was immune to even overpressure shots using 3BM32 "Vant" depleted uranium APFSDS, which penetrated the T-80BV using standard charges. Chemical protection was also improved and the T-72B's upper glacis was capable of resisting HEAT-FS rounds, man-portable ATGMs, and older full-size ATGMs.

The armour upgrades played a large role in increasing the T-72B's weight to about 43 tons at combat weight compared to the T-72A's 41 tons. To cope with this, a V-84 engine producing 840 horsepower was installed. It was a close derivative of the V-46 and in theory should have been very easy to retrofit to existing T-72s. However, its increased power and heat generation required modifications to the T-72B design. An engineer recalled that the V-84 somehow developed less power than the V-46 when installed in the T-72A.

The T-72B received a new 1A40-1 sighting complex with a lead calculator, improved laser rangefinder, and support for 9M119 "Svir" gun-launched ATGMs through an improved night sight. The gunner could lase a moving target while looking down the sight and the system would calculate and display how many mils to lead by in a secondary eyepiece. From the gunner's view, the calculation result would be superimposed on the sight view. This made it easier for the tank to engage moving targets, which previously was unassisted on early T-72A models, but the system was not precise enough for reliable long distance shooting and lagged behind the [[M60A3 TTS|M60A3]]'s fire control system in ease of use.

Other minor changes included modifications to the autoloader to accommodate the Svir ATGMs and an improved 2E42-2 "Zhasmin" stabilizer system with an electric drive instead of hydraulics. The vehicle represented in War Thunder is equipped with Kontakt-1 explosive reactive armour, which became standard for T-72Bs out of the factory. The turret ERA was no longer mounted on brackets as on the [[T-64B]] or T-72AV, instead being placed directly on the turret surface. This more haphazard arrangement increased the coverage of the ERA but slightly decreased effectiveness due to suboptimal sloping towards incoming fire. Still, a T-72B with Kontakt-1 was virtually immune to single-charge chemical munitions. [[T-72B (1989)|Later production variants]] were capable of equipping improved Kontakt-5 ERA, which in turn made them resistant to even the best NATO APFSDS rounds at the time.

The T-72B successfully addressed the immediate problems facing the T-72A. The protection now matched or exceeded the new NATO MBTs that were capable of dispatching the previous model and the fire control upgrades provided a welcome increase in offensive capabilities. This was achieved without sacrificing ease of production and the T-72B was widely produced and exported like prior models. No improvements were made to its mobility, which was now exceeded by the Abrams and Leopard 2, and the fire control system was still inferior to Western tanks. Still, it provided a solid foundation for modernizations like the [[T-72B3]] and will likely stay in service for the next few decades. The famous T-90 had its beginnings as an upgraded "T-72BU" as well.

The T-72B did not see any combat with the Soviet Union. The succeeding Russian Federation has used the T-72B in Chechenya, Georgia, and elsewhere. Other customers and current users of the T-72B include Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Laos, Morocco, and Syria.

===[[wt:en/news/6614-development-t-72b-necessary-improvements-en|Devblog]]===

By the middle of the 1980s, there was an objective need to upgrade the main battle tank of the Soviet Union - T-72 to modern battle performance values. The fact is that the vehicle seriously lacked firepower and modern fire control systems and its protection which wasn't bad at the time of conception, became obsolete due to the emergence of new powerful weapons. The big tank modernization program implied a comprehensive improvement of the T-72 in all its key characteristics.

In the early 80s, the guided weapon system under the name "Svir" was developed for the Soviet tanks with the ability to guide the missile via beam and launching it through the gun barrel. At the same time there was also work on development of the first generation of the "Contact-1" explosive reactive armour. Both of these novelties were in demand for the modernization of the T-72. The vehicle received a new combined hull armour pack for the upper frontal part which increases in size and its composition has been redistributed toward more steel. Also a new custom turret with larger dimensions has been installed, featuring new armour filler packs.

Due to an increased weight, the tank required a new engine which allowed it to maintain the good running characteristics of the base model. The upgraded version received the designation T-72B and was adopted in December 1984. This modification became the basis for a large number of versions and upgrades which made the T-72 the most mass produced 2nd generation MBT in the world. As an upgraded version this tank continues to serve in the Russian army and many other countries.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=ussr&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=medium_tank&vehicle=ussr_t_72b Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

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

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|V3Gfl_N4JV8|'''The Shooting Range #192''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:32 discusses the T-72B.}}

== 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/6614-development-t-72b-necessary-improvements-en|[Devblog] T-72B: Necessary Improvements]]

{{USSR medium tanks}}
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

User talk:U8359201

2021-06-23T18:22:41Z

U8359201: /* Source for image */

= Source for image =
Hello, could you please provide the source for this [[:File:E36c063bfa7d25899ed066eea0366a27.jpg|image of a Flakpanzer 38]] you uploaded to the wiki? Thanks, --[[User:U44629479|U44629479]] ([[User talk:U44629479|talk]]) 21:16, 22 June 2021 (UTC)

Of course, here it is: https://www.pinterest.co.kr/pin/682858362221313316/

User talk:U8359201

2021-06-23T18:22:26Z

U8359201: /* Source for image */

= Source for image =
Hello, could you please provide the source for this [[:File:E36c063bfa7d25899ed066eea0366a27.jpg|image of a Flakpanzer 38]] you uploaded to the wiki? Thanks, --[[User:U44629479|U44629479]] ([[User talk:U44629479|talk]]) 21:16, 22 June 2021 (UTC)
Of course, here it is: https://www.pinterest.co.kr/pin/682858362221313316/

Flakpanzer 38

2021-06-22T13:54:42Z

U8359201: usage in battles

{{About
| about = German SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = LT-38 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', officially named ''Flakpanzer 38(t) auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) Ausf M (Sd.Kfz. 140)'', is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German self-propelled anti-aircraft gun {{Battle-rating}}. It is sometimes, incorrectly, referred to as the ''Gepard'', which may lead to confusion with the unrelated [[Gepard|Flakpanzer Gepard]]. It was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]].

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 10 mm (65°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm (14°) ''Lower glacis'' || 15 mm || 10-15 mm (40°) || 8 mm
|-
| Gun shield || 7 mm ''Turret front'' 7 mm ''Gun mantlet''
!
!
!
|-
|}

The Flakpanzer 38(t) has thin but highly sloped front armour that resists small-calibre machine gun bullets and even 12.7 mm machine gun rounds at a distance. The gun shield will shrug off smaller rifle-calibre rounds but not 12.7 mm bullets and larger. Like its predecessor, the [[Flakpanzer I]], it maintains a limited crew of two and is also easily destroyed by overpressure. Common threats include HE shells, artillery strikes, air-dropped bombs, HEAT projectiles, strafing planes and HMG fire.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=213|rbMinHp=133}}

Top speed and power-to-weight ratio are much higher than the [[Flakpanzer I]], topping out at 46 km/h forward, -6 km/h backwards, and a power-to-weight ratio in realistic and simulator battles of 15.31 hp/ton.

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

For this vehicle, two very important modifications to keep an eye out for are the Sprgr. and PzGr 40 ammo belts. The first provides a boost to the vehicle's anti-air capabilities, being completely filled with high explosive shells, and the second turns the Flakpanzer into a deadly anti-tank machine with high-penetration HVAP rounds.

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

{{main|FlaK38 (20 mm)}}

The gun is the same as its predecessor, the FlaK38. It has sufficient HE shells for planes, 46 mm penetration AP-I, and 64 mm penetration HVAP. The belt size is identical. Reload between clips is long. The gun can pen most things the tank encounters, barring Valentines, Matildas, B1 bis, B1 ter, and T-28E.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[FlaK38 (20 mm)|20 mm FlaK38]] || 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" | 1,080 (20) || rowspan="2" | 480 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+90° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 30.82 || 42.66 || 51.79 || 57.28 || 60.94 || rowspan="2" | 3.90 || rowspan="2" | 3.45 || rowspan="2" | 3.18 || rowspan="2" | 3.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 20.83 || 24.50 || 29.75 || 32.90 || 35.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''Sprgr.:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr.40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belts
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Default || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| Sprgr. || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| PzGr || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| PzGr.40 || 64 || 63 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Belt details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Sprgr. || HEFI-T || 900 || 0.115 || 0.3 || 0.1 || 10.2 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| PzGr || API-T || 780 || 0.147 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''54''' || 1 ''(+53)'' || Yes
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

At the start of the match, you can camp around the spawn point and wait until the enemy planes show up, this is the safest way, but it's passive and not efficient in terms of getting kills. So if you are brave / skilled enough, use it as a light tank as it has 42 km/h top speed. The 20 mm cannon is very deadly against any light and fast vehicles, it can finish up their crew easily when penetrated. However you must be very careful as the Flakpanzer 38 only has 2 crew, and losing one means death. Unfortunately, the gunner is the most exposed and unprotected crew and is extremely vulnerable to everything: artillery, MG fire, planes, small bombs, rockets, etc. Do whatever you can to stay alive, as this vehicle has more potential as the match progresses. Pick on those soft targets and avoid heavily armoured ones to ensure effective penetration and killing.

In the late stages of the match you should be even more careful, as at this time most people will take out their SPAAs, and those fast-firing guns are your biggest threat. Try and be more aware of the surrounding situations, avoid running into anyone. Use the mobility to flank and the small profile to ambush.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great firepower: wonderful combination of rapid firerate, adequate velocity, 20 round mag and various belt types- Sprgr. belt is destructive against low tier aircraft, while PzGr 40 is very deadly against armoured targets (eg. [[M3A3 (Italy)|M3A3]], [[T-60]] or even the [[B1 bis]])
* Fast turret traverse allows it to keep up with close/fast targets easily, while the great gun elevation and depression means it can fight in any terrain
* Small frontal profile allows it to hide behind cover or bushes easily, which mitigates against its lack of protection
* Decent top speed of 42 km/h means it can get to certain positions alongside light tanks, which is great for ambushing
* Thin turret armour can make some shells over-penetrate, dealing little damage
* Hull armour can resist 12.7 mm bullets, commonly used on US tanks like [[M13 MGMC]] and [[M8 Greyhound (Family)|M8 Greyhound]]

'''Cons:'''

* Extremely poor survivability: only two crew protected by thin armour makes it easily to get destroyed by overpressure
* Rather long reload time requires strict trigger control
* The PzGr 40 belt is mixed with low-penetrating belts, reducing its anti-tank capability as half of the shells sometimes won't be able to penetrate
* Slow reverse speed of only -6 km/h can get the player killed due to not being able to retreat from danger quickly

== History ==


=== In-game description ===
The Flakpanzer 38(t) self-propelled anti-air mount was a temporary transitional version that was used until the development of a real anti-air tank on the chassis of the Panzer IV was completed. The vehicle was produced from November, 1943 to February, 1944. The first 87 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles appeared at the front in January, 1944 and made up Flugabwehrzug (AA platoons) in tank divisions and tank grenadier divisions (sometimes in Waffen SS divisions such as the Hitlerjugend 12th Waffen SS division in Norway in 1944).

In 1944-1945 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were used actively on the Italian and Western Fronts, where they were effective against low-flying aircraft.

A total of 141 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were released.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=spaa&vehicle=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|naeDoEwZ5Pg|'''German SPAAs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|BawYltMDHtg|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Flakpanzer I]]
* [[Ta-Se]]

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

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

{{Germany anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Flakpanzer 38

2021-06-22T13:52:15Z

U8359201: /* In-game description */

{{About
| about = German SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = LT-38 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', officially named ''Flakpanzer 38(t) auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) Ausf M (Sd.Kfz. 140)'', is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German self-propelled anti-aircraft gun {{Battle-rating}}. It is sometimes, incorrectly, referred to as the ''Gepard'', which may lead to confusion with the unrelated [[Gepard|Flakpanzer Gepard]]. It was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]].

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 10 mm (65°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm (14°) ''Lower glacis'' || 15 mm || 10-15 mm (40°) || 8 mm
|-
| Gun shield || 7 mm ''Turret front'' 7 mm ''Gun mantlet''
!
!
!
|-
|}

The Flakpanzer 38(t) has thin but highly sloped front armour that resists small-calibre machine gun bullets and even 12.7 mm machine gun rounds at a distance. The gun shield will shrug off smaller rifle-calibre rounds but not 12.7 mm bullets and larger. Like its predecessor, the [[Flakpanzer I]], it maintains a limited crew of two and is also easily destroyed by overpressure. Common threats include HE shells, artillery strikes, air-dropped bombs, HEAT projectiles, strafing planes and HMG fire.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=213|rbMinHp=133}}

Top speed and power-to-weight ratio are much higher than the [[Flakpanzer I]], topping out at 46 km/h forward, -6 km/h backwards, and a power-to-weight ratio in realistic and simulator battles of 15.31 hp/ton.

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

For this vehicle, two very important modifications to keep an eye out for are the Sprgr. and PzGr 40 ammo belts. The first provides a boost to the vehicle's anti-air capabilities, being completely filled with high explosive shells, and the second turns the Flakpanzer into a deadly anti-tank machine with high-penetration HVAP rounds.

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

{{main|FlaK38 (20 mm)}}

The gun is the same as its predecessor, the FlaK38. It has sufficient HE shells for planes, 46 mm penetration AP-I, and 64 mm penetration HVAP. The belt size is identical. Reload between clips is long. The gun can pen most things the tank encounters, barring Valentines, Matildas, B1 bis, B1 ter, and T-28E.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[FlaK38 (20 mm)|20 mm FlaK38]] || 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" | 1,080 (20) || rowspan="2" | 480 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+90° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 30.82 || 42.66 || 51.79 || 57.28 || 60.94 || rowspan="2" | 3.90 || rowspan="2" | 3.45 || rowspan="2" | 3.18 || rowspan="2" | 3.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 20.83 || 24.50 || 29.75 || 32.90 || 35.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''Sprgr.:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr.40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belts
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Default || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| Sprgr. || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| PzGr || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| PzGr.40 || 64 || 63 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Belt details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Sprgr. || HEFI-T || 900 || 0.115 || 0.3 || 0.1 || 10.2 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| PzGr || API-T || 780 || 0.147 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''54''' || 1 ''(+53)'' || Yes
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

=== As an SPAA: ===
''Warning: this play style is recommended to AB, as you low volume of fire will be compensated by an aim assist when shooting at planes. In RB, it will turn out to be harder to aim properly, due to low volume of fire, no aim assist, rather short belt, and average reload time, so it might get yourself killed''.

At the start of the match, you can camp around the spawn point and wait until the enemy planes show up, this is the safest way, but it's passive and not efficient in terms of getting kills.

When shooting planes, avoid opening fire when the plane is far away from you. This will only waste your ammo and give your position away to both the plane and the tanks. Instead you have two tactics: one is to passively wait until the plane flies close and is unaware of you, then suddenly open fire. The other tactic is a bit risky. First find a good cover so you are not likely to get shot from tanks. Then regardless of the plane's distance from you, fire some random shells at it to get their attention. Once they know you're there, a lot of pilots will turn towards you and try to kill you, knowing that SPAAs usually have weak protection. When they're flying head-on towards you, use the fast fire rate and spray a stream of shells in their path and wait for them to crash into your shells, then quickly move away to dodge the bullets. Tip: aim slightly above the plane to compensate for the shell drop, as the distance between you and the plane is usually greater than you think.

In the late stages of the match you should be even more careful, as at this time most people will take out their SPAAs, and those fast-firing guns are your biggest threat. Try and be more aware of the surrounding situations, avoid running into anyone. Use the mobility to flank and the small profile to ambush.

=== As an MBT: ===
''Warning: this play style is recommended to RB, as in AB people will see your marker and planes will know your position, which will attract deadly strafes. However, you can also play it in AB, as you have an armour penetration indicator, which will help you against heavily armoured targets.''

Another very effective play style is to use the Flakpanzer's great mobility and good armour penetration to attack geround targets, even heavy tanks like the [[Churchill I|Churchill]], and the [[Matilda III|Matilda]], which are rather commonly encountered. Load the Pzgr. 40, if you have access to it, or, if you haven't, load the Pzgr.. These will make short work of light tanks ([[BT-5]]/[[BT-7|7]], [[M24]], [[M3/M5 Stuart (Family)|Stuarts]], etc.), medium tanks (like the [[M4A3 (105)]]), SPGs (like the [[SU-76D|SU-76]], [[SU-122]] or even [[StuG III F|StuG III]]), and many others. Your main goal is to flank, as a front encounter will only result in your death if the enemy isn't a light tank. You can penetrate front armour of most mediums, and don't hesitate to if you need, but your best option is always for a surprise attack. The Pzgr. has HE filler, but decreased penetration to the Pzgr. 40, so it is recomended to use the mixed belt. '''Engage enemy planes only if they are posing a threat to you, or they are very weak, like biplanes, as your AP belt won't deal much damage to others.''' If you encounter the Matilda or the Churchill frontally, or facing you, send a quick belt towards the gun barrel and around, to disable both cannon and MG. Then ram it to get maximum penetration and shoot it in the neck until it blows away. '''Note: If you see you are going to detonate a rack, go away and shoot from 10m+, otherwise the explosion will kill you.''' Always give preference to a rack or the enemy's gunner, which will leave him out of combat for time enough.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great firepower: wonderful combination of rapid firerate, adequate velocity, 20 round mag and various belt types- Sprgr. belt is destructive against low tier aircraft, while PzGr 40 is very deadly against armoured targets (eg. [[M3A3 (Italy)|M3A3]], [[T-60]] or even the [[B1 bis]])
* Fast turret traverse allows it to keep up with close/fast targets easily, while the great gun elevation and depression means it can fight in any terrain
* Pzgr. shot has HE filler, although less penetration.
* Pzgr. 40 shot has high penetration, although no HE filler.
* Can shoot in a 360º arc, unlike it's successor
* Multiple play styles.
* Small frontal profile allows it to hide behind cover or bushes easily, which mitigates against its lack of protection
* Decent top speed of 42 km/h means it can get to certain positions alongside light tanks, which is great for ambushing
* Thin turret armour can make some shells over-penetrate, dealing little damage
* Hull armour can resist 12.7 mm bullets, commonly used on US tanks like [[M13 MGMC]] and [[M8 Greyhound (Family)|M8 Greyhound]]

'''Cons:'''

* Extremely poor survivability: only two crew protected by thin armour makes it easily to get destroyed by overpressure
* Rather long reload time will prove fatal against aircraft if they are not shot down before it ends
* The PzGr 40 belt is mixed with low-penetrating belts, reducing its anti-tank capability as half of the shells sometimes won't be able to penetrate
* MBT mode is ill-advised in AB, for reasons described in it's section above.
* Slow reverse speed of only -6 km/h can get the player killed due to not being able to retreat from danger quickly

== History ==
[[File:E36c063bfa7d25899ed066eea0366a27.jpg|thumb|261x261px|Flakpanzer 38 "Gepard", Western Front, 1944]]

=== Combat Usage ===
The Flakpanzer 38(t) self-propelled anti-air mount was a temporary transitional version that was used until the development of a real anti-air tank on the chassis of the Panzer IV was completed. The vehicle was produced from November, 1943 to February, 1944. The first 87 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles appeared at the front in January, 1944 and made up Flugabwehrzug (AA platoons) in tank divisions and tank grenadier divisions (sometimes in Waffen SS divisions such as the Hitlerjugend 12th Waffen SS division in Norway in 1944).

In 1944-1945 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were used actively on the Italian and Western Fronts, where they were effective against low-flying aircraft.

A total of 141 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were released.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=spaa&vehicle=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|naeDoEwZ5Pg|'''German SPAAs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|BawYltMDHtg|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Flakpanzer I]]
* [[Ta-Se]]

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

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

{{Germany anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Flakpanzer 38

2021-06-22T13:50:49Z

U8359201: /* History */

{{About
| about = German SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = LT-38 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', officially named ''Flakpanzer 38(t) auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) Ausf M (Sd.Kfz. 140)'', is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German self-propelled anti-aircraft gun {{Battle-rating}}. It is sometimes, incorrectly, referred to as the ''Gepard'', which may lead to confusion with the unrelated [[Gepard|Flakpanzer Gepard]]. It was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]].

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 10 mm (65°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm (14°) ''Lower glacis'' || 15 mm || 10-15 mm (40°) || 8 mm
|-
| Gun shield || 7 mm ''Turret front'' 7 mm ''Gun mantlet''
!
!
!
|-
|}

The Flakpanzer 38(t) has thin but highly sloped front armour that resists small-calibre machine gun bullets and even 12.7 mm machine gun rounds at a distance. The gun shield will shrug off smaller rifle-calibre rounds but not 12.7 mm bullets and larger. Like its predecessor, the [[Flakpanzer I]], it maintains a limited crew of two and is also easily destroyed by overpressure. Common threats include HE shells, artillery strikes, air-dropped bombs, HEAT projectiles, strafing planes and HMG fire.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=213|rbMinHp=133}}

Top speed and power-to-weight ratio are much higher than the [[Flakpanzer I]], topping out at 46 km/h forward, -6 km/h backwards, and a power-to-weight ratio in realistic and simulator battles of 15.31 hp/ton.

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

For this vehicle, two very important modifications to keep an eye out for are the Sprgr. and PzGr 40 ammo belts. The first provides a boost to the vehicle's anti-air capabilities, being completely filled with high explosive shells, and the second turns the Flakpanzer into a deadly anti-tank machine with high-penetration HVAP rounds.

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

{{main|FlaK38 (20 mm)}}

The gun is the same as its predecessor, the FlaK38. It has sufficient HE shells for planes, 46 mm penetration AP-I, and 64 mm penetration HVAP. The belt size is identical. Reload between clips is long. The gun can pen most things the tank encounters, barring Valentines, Matildas, B1 bis, B1 ter, and T-28E.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[FlaK38 (20 mm)|20 mm FlaK38]] || 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" | 1,080 (20) || rowspan="2" | 480 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+90° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 30.82 || 42.66 || 51.79 || 57.28 || 60.94 || rowspan="2" | 3.90 || rowspan="2" | 3.45 || rowspan="2" | 3.18 || rowspan="2" | 3.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 20.83 || 24.50 || 29.75 || 32.90 || 35.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''Sprgr.:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr.40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belts
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Default || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| Sprgr. || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| PzGr || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| PzGr.40 || 64 || 63 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Belt details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Sprgr. || HEFI-T || 900 || 0.115 || 0.3 || 0.1 || 10.2 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| PzGr || API-T || 780 || 0.147 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''54''' || 1 ''(+53)'' || Yes
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

=== As an SPAA: ===
''Warning: this play style is recommended to AB, as you low volume of fire will be compensated by an aim assist when shooting at planes. In RB, it will turn out to be harder to aim properly, due to low volume of fire, no aim assist, rather short belt, and average reload time, so it might get yourself killed''.

At the start of the match, you can camp around the spawn point and wait until the enemy planes show up, this is the safest way, but it's passive and not efficient in terms of getting kills.

When shooting planes, avoid opening fire when the plane is far away from you. This will only waste your ammo and give your position away to both the plane and the tanks. Instead you have two tactics: one is to passively wait until the plane flies close and is unaware of you, then suddenly open fire. The other tactic is a bit risky. First find a good cover so you are not likely to get shot from tanks. Then regardless of the plane's distance from you, fire some random shells at it to get their attention. Once they know you're there, a lot of pilots will turn towards you and try to kill you, knowing that SPAAs usually have weak protection. When they're flying head-on towards you, use the fast fire rate and spray a stream of shells in their path and wait for them to crash into your shells, then quickly move away to dodge the bullets. Tip: aim slightly above the plane to compensate for the shell drop, as the distance between you and the plane is usually greater than you think.

In the late stages of the match you should be even more careful, as at this time most people will take out their SPAAs, and those fast-firing guns are your biggest threat. Try and be more aware of the surrounding situations, avoid running into anyone. Use the mobility to flank and the small profile to ambush.

=== As an MBT: ===
''Warning: this play style is recommended to RB, as in AB people will see your marker and planes will know your position, which will attract deadly strafes. However, you can also play it in AB, as you have an armour penetration indicator, which will help you against heavily armoured targets.''

Another very effective play style is to use the Flakpanzer's great mobility and good armour penetration to attack geround targets, even heavy tanks like the [[Churchill I|Churchill]], and the [[Matilda III|Matilda]], which are rather commonly encountered. Load the Pzgr. 40, if you have access to it, or, if you haven't, load the Pzgr.. These will make short work of light tanks ([[BT-5]]/[[BT-7|7]], [[M24]], [[M3/M5 Stuart (Family)|Stuarts]], etc.), medium tanks (like the [[M4A3 (105)]]), SPGs (like the [[SU-76D|SU-76]], [[SU-122]] or even [[StuG III F|StuG III]]), and many others. Your main goal is to flank, as a front encounter will only result in your death if the enemy isn't a light tank. You can penetrate front armour of most mediums, and don't hesitate to if you need, but your best option is always for a surprise attack. The Pzgr. has HE filler, but decreased penetration to the Pzgr. 40, so it is recomended to use the mixed belt. '''Engage enemy planes only if they are posing a threat to you, or they are very weak, like biplanes, as your AP belt won't deal much damage to others.''' If you encounter the Matilda or the Churchill frontally, or facing you, send a quick belt towards the gun barrel and around, to disable both cannon and MG. Then ram it to get maximum penetration and shoot it in the neck until it blows away. '''Note: If you see you are going to detonate a rack, go away and shoot from 10m+, otherwise the explosion will kill you.''' Always give preference to a rack or the enemy's gunner, which will leave him out of combat for time enough.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great firepower: wonderful combination of rapid firerate, adequate velocity, 20 round mag and various belt types- Sprgr. belt is destructive against low tier aircraft, while PzGr 40 is very deadly against armoured targets (eg. [[M3A3 (Italy)|M3A3]], [[T-60]] or even the [[B1 bis]])
* Fast turret traverse allows it to keep up with close/fast targets easily, while the great gun elevation and depression means it can fight in any terrain
* Pzgr. shot has HE filler, although less penetration.
* Pzgr. 40 shot has high penetration, although no HE filler.
* Can shoot in a 360º arc, unlike it's successor
* Multiple play styles.
* Small frontal profile allows it to hide behind cover or bushes easily, which mitigates against its lack of protection
* Decent top speed of 42 km/h means it can get to certain positions alongside light tanks, which is great for ambushing
* Thin turret armour can make some shells over-penetrate, dealing little damage
* Hull armour can resist 12.7 mm bullets, commonly used on US tanks like [[M13 MGMC]] and [[M8 Greyhound (Family)|M8 Greyhound]]

'''Cons:'''

* Extremely poor survivability: only two crew protected by thin armour makes it easily to get destroyed by overpressure
* Rather long reload time will prove fatal against aircraft if they are not shot down before it ends
* The PzGr 40 belt is mixed with low-penetrating belts, reducing its anti-tank capability as half of the shells sometimes won't be able to penetrate
* MBT mode is ill-advised in AB, for reasons described in it's section above.
* Slow reverse speed of only -6 km/h can get the player killed due to not being able to retreat from danger quickly

== History ==
[[File:E36c063bfa7d25899ed066eea0366a27.jpg|thumb|261x261px|Flakpanzer 38 "Gepard", Western Front, 1944]]

=== In-game description ===
The Flakpanzer 38(t) self-propelled anti-air mount was a temporary transitional version that was used until the development of a real anti-air tank on the chassis of the Panzer IV was completed. The vehicle was produced from November, 1943 to February, 1944. The first 87 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles appeared at the front in January, 1944 and made up Flugabwehrzug (AA platoons) in tank divisions and tank grenadier divisions (sometimes in Waffen SS divisions such as the Hitlerjugend 12th Waffen SS division in Norway in 1944).

In 1944-1945 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were used actively on the Italian and Western Fronts, where they were effective against low-flying aircraft.

A total of 141 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were released.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=spaa&vehicle=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|naeDoEwZ5Pg|'''German SPAAs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|BawYltMDHtg|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Flakpanzer I]]
* [[Ta-Se]]

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

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

{{Germany anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Flakpanzer 38

2021-06-22T13:38:11Z

U8359201: /* As an SPAA: */

{{About
| about = German SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = LT-38 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', officially named ''Flakpanzer 38(t) auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) Ausf M (Sd.Kfz. 140)'', is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German self-propelled anti-aircraft gun {{Battle-rating}}. It is sometimes, incorrectly, referred to as the ''Gepard'', which may lead to confusion with the unrelated [[Gepard|Flakpanzer Gepard]]. It was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]].

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 10 mm (65°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm (14°) ''Lower glacis'' || 15 mm || 10-15 mm (40°) || 8 mm
|-
| Gun shield || 7 mm ''Turret front'' 7 mm ''Gun mantlet''
!
!
!
|-
|}

The Flakpanzer 38(t) has thin but highly sloped front armour that resists small-calibre machine gun bullets and even 12.7 mm machine gun rounds at a distance. The gun shield will shrug off smaller rifle-calibre rounds but not 12.7 mm bullets and larger. Like its predecessor, the [[Flakpanzer I]], it maintains a limited crew of two and is also easily destroyed by overpressure. Common threats include HE shells, artillery strikes, air-dropped bombs, HEAT projectiles, strafing planes and HMG fire.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=213|rbMinHp=133}}

Top speed and power-to-weight ratio are much higher than the [[Flakpanzer I]], topping out at 46 km/h forward, -6 km/h backwards, and a power-to-weight ratio in realistic and simulator battles of 15.31 hp/ton.

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

For this vehicle, two very important modifications to keep an eye out for are the Sprgr. and PzGr 40 ammo belts. The first provides a boost to the vehicle's anti-air capabilities, being completely filled with high explosive shells, and the second turns the Flakpanzer into a deadly anti-tank machine with high-penetration HVAP rounds.

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

{{main|FlaK38 (20 mm)}}

The gun is the same as its predecessor, the FlaK38. It has sufficient HE shells for planes, 46 mm penetration AP-I, and 64 mm penetration HVAP. The belt size is identical. Reload between clips is long. The gun can pen most things the tank encounters, barring Valentines, Matildas, B1 bis, B1 ter, and T-28E.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[FlaK38 (20 mm)|20 mm FlaK38]] || 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" | 1,080 (20) || rowspan="2" | 480 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+90° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 30.82 || 42.66 || 51.79 || 57.28 || 60.94 || rowspan="2" | 3.90 || rowspan="2" | 3.45 || rowspan="2" | 3.18 || rowspan="2" | 3.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 20.83 || 24.50 || 29.75 || 32.90 || 35.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''Sprgr.:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr.40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belts
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Default || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| Sprgr. || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| PzGr || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| PzGr.40 || 64 || 63 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Belt details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Sprgr. || HEFI-T || 900 || 0.115 || 0.3 || 0.1 || 10.2 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| PzGr || API-T || 780 || 0.147 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''54''' || 1 ''(+53)'' || Yes
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

=== As an SPAA: ===
''Warning: this play style is recommended to AB, as you low volume of fire will be compensated by an aim assist when shooting at planes. In RB, it will turn out to be harder to aim properly, due to low volume of fire, no aim assist, rather short belt, and average reload time, so it might get yourself killed''.

At the start of the match, you can camp around the spawn point and wait until the enemy planes show up, this is the safest way, but it's passive and not efficient in terms of getting kills.

When shooting planes, avoid opening fire when the plane is far away from you. This will only waste your ammo and give your position away to both the plane and the tanks. Instead you have two tactics: one is to passively wait until the plane flies close and is unaware of you, then suddenly open fire. The other tactic is a bit risky. First find a good cover so you are not likely to get shot from tanks. Then regardless of the plane's distance from you, fire some random shells at it to get their attention. Once they know you're there, a lot of pilots will turn towards you and try to kill you, knowing that SPAAs usually have weak protection. When they're flying head-on towards you, use the fast fire rate and spray a stream of shells in their path and wait for them to crash into your shells, then quickly move away to dodge the bullets. Tip: aim slightly above the plane to compensate for the shell drop, as the distance between you and the plane is usually greater than you think.

In the late stages of the match you should be even more careful, as at this time most people will take out their SPAAs, and those fast-firing guns are your biggest threat. Try and be more aware of the surrounding situations, avoid running into anyone. Use the mobility to flank and the small profile to ambush.

=== As an MBT: ===
''Warning: this play style is recommended to RB, as in AB people will see your marker and planes will know your position, which will attract deadly strafes. However, you can also play it in AB, as you have an armour penetration indicator, which will help you against heavily armoured targets.''

Another very effective play style is to use the Flakpanzer's great mobility and good armour penetration to attack geround targets, even heavy tanks like the [[Churchill I|Churchill]], and the [[Matilda III|Matilda]], which are rather commonly encountered. Load the Pzgr. 40, if you have access to it, or, if you haven't, load the Pzgr.. These will make short work of light tanks ([[BT-5]]/[[BT-7|7]], [[M24]], [[M3/M5 Stuart (Family)|Stuarts]], etc.), medium tanks (like the [[M4A3 (105)]]), SPGs (like the [[SU-76D|SU-76]], [[SU-122]] or even [[StuG III F|StuG III]]), and many others. Your main goal is to flank, as a front encounter will only result in your death if the enemy isn't a light tank. You can penetrate front armour of most mediums, and don't hesitate to if you need, but your best option is always for a surprise attack. The Pzgr. has HE filler, but decreased penetration to the Pzgr. 40, so it is recomended to use the mixed belt. '''Engage enemy planes only if they are posing a threat to you, or they are very weak, like biplanes, as your AP belt won't deal much damage to others.''' If you encounter the Matilda or the Churchill frontally, or facing you, send a quick belt towards the gun barrel and around, to disable both cannon and MG. Then ram it to get maximum penetration and shoot it in the neck until it blows away. '''Note: If you see you are going to detonate a rack, go away and shoot from 10m+, otherwise the explosion will kill you.''' Always give preference to a rack or the enemy's gunner, which will leave him out of combat for time enough.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great firepower: wonderful combination of rapid firerate, adequate velocity, 20 round mag and various belt types- Sprgr. belt is destructive against low tier aircraft, while PzGr 40 is very deadly against armoured targets (eg. [[M3A3 (Italy)|M3A3]], [[T-60]] or even the [[B1 bis]])
* Fast turret traverse allows it to keep up with close/fast targets easily, while the great gun elevation and depression means it can fight in any terrain
* Pzgr. shot has HE filler, although less penetration.
* Pzgr. 40 shot has high penetration, although no HE filler.
* Can shoot in a 360º arc, unlike it's successor
* Multiple play styles.
* Small frontal profile allows it to hide behind cover or bushes easily, which mitigates against its lack of protection
* Decent top speed of 42 km/h means it can get to certain positions alongside light tanks, which is great for ambushing
* Thin turret armour can make some shells over-penetrate, dealing little damage
* Hull armour can resist 12.7 mm bullets, commonly used on US tanks like [[M13 MGMC]] and [[M8 Greyhound (Family)|M8 Greyhound]]

'''Cons:'''

* Extremely poor survivability: only two crew protected by thin armour makes it easily to get destroyed by overpressure
* Rather long reload time will prove fatal against aircraft if they are not shot down before it ends
* The PzGr 40 belt is mixed with low-penetrating belts, reducing its anti-tank capability as half of the shells sometimes won't be able to penetrate
* MBT mode is ill-advised in AB, for reasons described in it's section above.
* Slow reverse speed of only -6 km/h can get the player killed due to not being able to retreat from danger quickly

== History ==


=== In-game description ===
The Flakpanzer 38(t) self-propelled anti-air mount was a temporary transitional version that was used until the development of a real anti-air tank on the chassis of the Panzer IV was completed. The vehicle was produced from November, 1943 to February, 1944. The first 87 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles appeared at the front in January, 1944 and made up Flugabwehrzug (AA platoons) in tank divisions and tank grenadier divisions (sometimes in Waffen SS divisions such as the Hitlerjugend 12th Waffen SS division in Norway in 1944).

In 1944-1945 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were used actively on the Italian and Western Fronts, where they were effective against low-flying aircraft.

A total of 141 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were released.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=spaa&vehicle=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|naeDoEwZ5Pg|'''German SPAAs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|BawYltMDHtg|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Flakpanzer I]]
* [[Ta-Se]]

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

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

{{Germany anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Flakpanzer 38

2021-06-22T12:58:59Z

U8359201: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = German SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = LT-38 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', officially named ''Flakpanzer 38(t) auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) Ausf M (Sd.Kfz. 140)'', is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German self-propelled anti-aircraft gun {{Battle-rating}}. It is sometimes, incorrectly, referred to as the ''Gepard'', which may lead to confusion with the unrelated [[Gepard|Flakpanzer Gepard]]. It was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]].

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 10 mm (65°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm (14°) ''Lower glacis'' || 15 mm || 10-15 mm (40°) || 8 mm
|-
| Gun shield || 7 mm ''Turret front'' 7 mm ''Gun mantlet''
!
!
!
|-
|}

The Flakpanzer 38(t) has thin but highly sloped front armour that resists small-calibre machine gun bullets and even 12.7 mm machine gun rounds at a distance. The gun shield will shrug off smaller rifle-calibre rounds but not 12.7 mm bullets and larger. Like its predecessor, the [[Flakpanzer I]], it maintains a limited crew of two and is also easily destroyed by overpressure. Common threats include HE shells, artillery strikes, air-dropped bombs, HEAT projectiles, strafing planes and HMG fire.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=213|rbMinHp=133}}

Top speed and power-to-weight ratio are much higher than the [[Flakpanzer I]], topping out at 46 km/h forward, -6 km/h backwards, and a power-to-weight ratio in realistic and simulator battles of 15.31 hp/ton.

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

For this vehicle, two very important modifications to keep an eye out for are the Sprgr. and PzGr 40 ammo belts. The first provides a boost to the vehicle's anti-air capabilities, being completely filled with high explosive shells, and the second turns the Flakpanzer into a deadly anti-tank machine with high-penetration HVAP rounds.

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

{{main|FlaK38 (20 mm)}}

The gun is the same as its predecessor, the FlaK38. It has sufficient HE shells for planes, 46 mm penetration AP-I, and 64 mm penetration HVAP. The belt size is identical. Reload between clips is long. The gun can pen most things the tank encounters, barring Valentines, Matildas, B1 bis, B1 ter, and T-28E.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[FlaK38 (20 mm)|20 mm FlaK38]] || 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" | 1,080 (20) || rowspan="2" | 480 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+90° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 30.82 || 42.66 || 51.79 || 57.28 || 60.94 || rowspan="2" | 3.90 || rowspan="2" | 3.45 || rowspan="2" | 3.18 || rowspan="2" | 3.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 20.83 || 24.50 || 29.75 || 32.90 || 35.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''Sprgr.:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr.40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belts
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Default || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| Sprgr. || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| PzGr || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| PzGr.40 || 64 || 63 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Belt details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Sprgr. || HEFI-T || 900 || 0.115 || 0.3 || 0.1 || 10.2 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| PzGr || API-T || 780 || 0.147 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''54''' || 1 ''(+53)'' || Yes
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

=== As an SPAA: ===
At the start of the match, you can camp around the spawn point and wait until the enemy planes show up, this is the safest way, but it's passive and not efficient in terms of getting kills.

When shooting planes, avoid opening fire when the plane is far away from you. This will only waste your ammo and give your position away to both the plane and the tanks. Instead you have two tactics: one is to passively wait until the plane flies close and is unaware of you, then suddenly open fire. The other tactic is a bit risky. First find a good cover so you are not likely to get shot from tanks. Then regardless of the plane's distance from you, fire some random shells at it to get their attention. Once they know you're there, a lot of pilots will turn towards you and try to kill you, knowing that SPAAs usually have weak protection. When they're flying head-on towards you, use the fast fire rate and spray a stream of shells in their path and wait for them to crash into your shells, then quickly move away to dodge the bullets. Tip: aim slightly above the plane to compensate for the shell drop, as the distance between you and the plane is usually greater than you think.

In the late stages of the match you should be even more careful, as at this time most people will take out their SPAAs, and those fast-firing guns are your biggest threat. Try and be more aware of the surrounding situations, avoid running into anyone. Use the mobility to flank and the small profile to ambush.

=== As an MBT: ===
''Warning: this play style is recommended to RB, as in AB people will see your marker and planes will know your position, which will attract deadly strafes. However, you can also play it in AB, as you have an armour penetration indicator, which will help you against heavily armoured targets.''

Another very effective play style is to use the Flakpanzer's great mobility and good armour penetration to attack geround targets, even heavy tanks like the [[Churchill I|Churchill]], and the [[Matilda III|Matilda]], which are rather commonly encountered. Load the Pzgr. 40, if you have access to it, or, if you haven't, load the Pzgr.. These will make short work of light tanks ([[BT-5]]/[[BT-7|7]], [[M24]], [[M3/M5 Stuart (Family)|Stuarts]], etc.), medium tanks (like the [[M4A3 (105)]]), SPGs (like the [[SU-76D|SU-76]], [[SU-122]] or even [[StuG III F|StuG III]]), and many others. Your main goal is to flank, as a front encounter will only result in your death if the enemy isn't a light tank. You can penetrate front armour of most mediums, and don't hesitate to if you need, but your best option is always for a surprise attack. The Pzgr. has HE filler, but decreased penetration to the Pzgr. 40, so it is recomended to use the mixed belt. '''Engage enemy planes only if they are posing a threat to you, or they are very weak, like biplanes, as your AP belt won't deal much damage to others.''' If you encounter the Matilda or the Churchill frontally, or facing you, send a quick belt towards the gun barrel and around, to disable both cannon and MG. Then ram it to get maximum penetration and shoot it in the neck until it blows away. '''Note: If you see you are going to detonate a rack, go away and shoot from 10m+, otherwise the explosion will kill you.''' Always give preference to a rack or the enemy's gunner, which will leave him out of combat for time enough.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great firepower: wonderful combination of rapid firerate, adequate velocity, 20 round mag and various belt types- Sprgr. belt is destructive against low tier aircraft, while PzGr 40 is very deadly against armoured targets (eg. [[M3A3 (Italy)|M3A3]], [[T-60]] or even the [[B1 bis]])
* Fast turret traverse allows it to keep up with close/fast targets easily, while the great gun elevation and depression means it can fight in any terrain
* Pzgr. shot has HE filler, although less penetration.
* Pzgr. 40 shot has high penetration, although no HE filler.
* Can shoot in a 360º arc, unlike it's successor
* Multiple play styles.
* Small frontal profile allows it to hide behind cover or bushes easily, which mitigates against its lack of protection
* Decent top speed of 42 km/h means it can get to certain positions alongside light tanks, which is great for ambushing
* Thin turret armour can make some shells over-penetrate, dealing little damage
* Hull armour can resist 12.7 mm bullets, commonly used on US tanks like [[M13 MGMC]] and [[M8 Greyhound (Family)|M8 Greyhound]]

'''Cons:'''

* Extremely poor survivability: only two crew protected by thin armour makes it easily to get destroyed by overpressure
* Rather long reload time will prove fatal against aircraft if they are not shot down before it ends
* The PzGr 40 belt is mixed with low-penetrating belts, reducing its anti-tank capability as half of the shells sometimes won't be able to penetrate
* MBT mode is ill-advised in AB, for reasons described in it's section above.
* Slow reverse speed of only -6 km/h can get the player killed due to not being able to retreat from danger quickly

== History ==


=== In-game description ===
The Flakpanzer 38(t) self-propelled anti-air mount was a temporary transitional version that was used until the development of a real anti-air tank on the chassis of the Panzer IV was completed. The vehicle was produced from November, 1943 to February, 1944. The first 87 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles appeared at the front in January, 1944 and made up Flugabwehrzug (AA platoons) in tank divisions and tank grenadier divisions (sometimes in Waffen SS divisions such as the Hitlerjugend 12th Waffen SS division in Norway in 1944).

In 1944-1945 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were used actively on the Italian and Western Fronts, where they were effective against low-flying aircraft.

A total of 141 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were released.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=spaa&vehicle=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|naeDoEwZ5Pg|'''German SPAAs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|BawYltMDHtg|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Flakpanzer I]]
* [[Ta-Se]]

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

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

{{Germany anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Flakpanzer 38

2021-06-22T12:52:52Z

U8359201: /* As an MBT: */ Playstyle

{{About
| about = German SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = LT-38 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', officially named ''Flakpanzer 38(t) auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) Ausf M (Sd.Kfz. 140)'', is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German self-propelled anti-aircraft gun {{Battle-rating}}. It is sometimes, incorrectly, referred to as the ''Gepard'', which may lead to confusion with the unrelated [[Gepard|Flakpanzer Gepard]]. It was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]].

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 10 mm (65°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm (14°) ''Lower glacis'' || 15 mm || 10-15 mm (40°) || 8 mm
|-
| Gun shield || 7 mm ''Turret front'' 7 mm ''Gun mantlet''
!
!
!
|-
|}

The Flakpanzer 38(t) has thin but highly sloped front armour that resists small-calibre machine gun bullets and even 12.7 mm machine gun rounds at a distance. The gun shield will shrug off smaller rifle-calibre rounds but not 12.7 mm bullets and larger. Like its predecessor, the [[Flakpanzer I]], it maintains a limited crew of two and is also easily destroyed by overpressure. Common threats include HE shells, artillery strikes, air-dropped bombs, HEAT projectiles, strafing planes and HMG fire.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=213|rbMinHp=133}}

Top speed and power-to-weight ratio are much higher than the [[Flakpanzer I]], topping out at 46 km/h forward, -6 km/h backwards, and a power-to-weight ratio in realistic and simulator battles of 15.31 hp/ton.

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

For this vehicle, two very important modifications to keep an eye out for are the Sprgr. and PzGr 40 ammo belts. The first provides a boost to the vehicle's anti-air capabilities, being completely filled with high explosive shells, and the second turns the Flakpanzer into a deadly anti-tank machine with high-penetration HVAP rounds.

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

{{main|FlaK38 (20 mm)}}

The gun is the same as its predecessor, the FlaK38. It has sufficient HE shells for planes, 46 mm penetration AP-I, and 64 mm penetration HVAP. The belt size is identical. Reload between clips is long. The gun can pen most things the tank encounters, barring Valentines, Matildas, B1 bis, B1 ter, and T-28E.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[FlaK38 (20 mm)|20 mm FlaK38]] || 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" | 1,080 (20) || rowspan="2" | 480 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+90° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 30.82 || 42.66 || 51.79 || 57.28 || 60.94 || rowspan="2" | 3.90 || rowspan="2" | 3.45 || rowspan="2" | 3.18 || rowspan="2" | 3.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 20.83 || 24.50 || 29.75 || 32.90 || 35.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''Sprgr.:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr.40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belts
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Default || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| Sprgr. || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| PzGr || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| PzGr.40 || 64 || 63 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Belt details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Sprgr. || HEFI-T || 900 || 0.115 || 0.3 || 0.1 || 10.2 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| PzGr || API-T || 780 || 0.147 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''54''' || 1 ''(+53)'' || Yes
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

=== As an SPAA: ===
At the start of the match, you can camp around the spawn point and wait until the enemy planes show up, this is the safest way, but it's passive and not efficient in terms of getting kills.

When shooting planes, avoid opening fire when the plane is far away from you. This will only waste your ammo and give your position away to both the plane and the tanks. Instead you have two tactics: one is to passively wait until the plane flies close and is unaware of you, then suddenly open fire. The other tactic is a bit risky. First find a good cover so you are not likely to get shot from tanks. Then regardless of the plane's distance from you, fire some random shells at it to get their attention. Once they know you're there, a lot of pilots will turn towards you and try to kill you, knowing that SPAAs usually have weak protection. When they're flying head-on towards you, use the fast fire rate and spray a stream of shells in their path and wait for them to crash into your shells, then quickly move away to dodge the bullets. Tip: aim slightly above the plane to compensate for the shell drop, as the distance between you and the plane is usually greater than you think.

In the late stages of the match you should be even more careful, as at this time most people will take out their SPAAs, and those fast-firing guns are your biggest threat. Try and be more aware of the surrounding situations, avoid running into anyone. Use the mobility to flank and the small profile to ambush.

=== As an MBT: ===
''Warning: this play style is recommended to RB, as in AB people will see your marker and planes will know your position, which will attract deadly strafes. However, you can also play it in AB, as you have an armour penetration indicator, which will help you against heavily armoured targets.''

Another very effective play style is to use the Flakpanzer's great mobility and good armour penetration to attack geround targets, even heavy tanks like the [[Churchill I|Churchill]], and the [[Matilda III|Matilda]], which are rather commonly encountered. Load the Pzgr. 40, if you have access to it, or, if you haven't, load the Pzgr.. These will make short work of light tanks ([[BT-5]]/[[BT-7|7]], [[M24]], [[M3/M5 Stuart (Family)|Stuarts]], etc.), medium tanks (like the [[M4A3 (105)]]), SPGs (like the [[SU-76D|SU-76]], [[SU-122]] or even [[StuG III F|StuG III]]), and many others. Your main goal is to flank, as a front encounter will only result in your death if the enemy isn't a light tank. You can penetrate front armour of most mediums, and don't hesitate to if you need, but your best option is always for a surprise attack. The Pzgr. has HE filler, but decreased penetration to the Pzgr. 40, so it is recomended to use the mixed belt. '''Engage enemy planes only if they are posing a threat to you, or they are very weak, like biplanes, as your AP belt won't deal much damage to others.''' If you encounter the Matilda or the Churchill frontally, or facing you, send a quick belt towards the gun barrel and around, to disable both cannon and MG. Then ram it to get maximum penetration and shoot it in the neck until it blows away. '''Note: If you see you are going to detonate a rack, go away and shoot from 10m+, otherwise the explosion will kill you.''' Always give preference to a rack or the enemy's gunner, which will leave him out of combat for time enough.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great firepower: wonderful combination of rapid firerate, adequate velocity, 20 round mag and various belt types- Sprgr. belt is destructive against low tier aircraft, while PzGr 40 is very deadly against armoured targets (eg. [[M3A3 (Italy)|M3A3]], [[T-60]] or even the [[B1 bis]])
* Fast turret traverse allows it to keep up with close/fast targets easily, while the great gun elevation and depression means it can fight in any terrain
* Small frontal profile allows it to hide behind cover or bushes easily, which mitigates against its lack of protection
* Decent top speed of 42 km/h means it can get to certain positions alongside light tanks, which is great for ambushing
* Thin turret armour can make some shells over-penetrate, dealing little damage
* Hull armour can resist 12.7 mm bullets, commonly used on US tanks like [[M13 MGMC]] and [[M8 Greyhound (Family)|M8 Greyhound]]

'''Cons:'''

* Extremely poor survivability: only two crew protected by thin armour makes it easily to get destroyed by overpressure
* Rather long reload time requires strict trigger control
* The PzGr 40 belt is mixed with low-penetrating belts, reducing its anti-tank capability as half of the shells sometimes won't be able to penetrate
* Slow reverse speed of only -6 km/h can get the player killed due to not being able to retreat from danger quickly

== History ==


=== In-game description ===
The Flakpanzer 38(t) self-propelled anti-air mount was a temporary transitional version that was used until the development of a real anti-air tank on the chassis of the Panzer IV was completed. The vehicle was produced from November, 1943 to February, 1944. The first 87 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles appeared at the front in January, 1944 and made up Flugabwehrzug (AA platoons) in tank divisions and tank grenadier divisions (sometimes in Waffen SS divisions such as the Hitlerjugend 12th Waffen SS division in Norway in 1944).

In 1944-1945 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were used actively on the Italian and Western Fronts, where they were effective against low-flying aircraft.

A total of 141 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were released.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=spaa&vehicle=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|naeDoEwZ5Pg|'''German SPAAs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|BawYltMDHtg|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Flakpanzer I]]
* [[Ta-Se]]

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

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

{{Germany anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Flakpanzer 38

2021-06-22T12:39:27Z

U8359201: /* Usage in battles */

{{About
| about = German SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = LT-38 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', officially named ''Flakpanzer 38(t) auf Selbstfahrlafette 38(t) Ausf M (Sd.Kfz. 140)'', is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German self-propelled anti-aircraft gun {{Battle-rating}}. It is sometimes, incorrectly, referred to as the ''Gepard'', which may lead to confusion with the unrelated [[Gepard|Flakpanzer Gepard]]. It was introduced in [[Update 1.47 "Big Guns"]].

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

'''Armour type:'''

* Rolled homogeneous armour

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 10 mm (65°) ''Front glacis'' 20 mm (14°) ''Lower glacis'' || 15 mm || 10-15 mm (40°) || 8 mm
|-
| Gun shield || 7 mm ''Turret front'' 7 mm ''Gun mantlet''
!
!
!
|-
|}

The Flakpanzer 38(t) has thin but highly sloped front armour that resists small-calibre machine gun bullets and even 12.7 mm machine gun rounds at a distance. The gun shield will shrug off smaller rifle-calibre rounds but not 12.7 mm bullets and larger. Like its predecessor, the [[Flakpanzer I]], it maintains a limited crew of two and is also easily destroyed by overpressure. Common threats include HE shells, artillery strikes, air-dropped bombs, HEAT projectiles, strafing planes and HMG fire.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp=213|rbMinHp=133}}

Top speed and power-to-weight ratio are much higher than the [[Flakpanzer I]], topping out at 46 km/h forward, -6 km/h backwards, and a power-to-weight ratio in realistic and simulator battles of 15.31 hp/ton.

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

For this vehicle, two very important modifications to keep an eye out for are the Sprgr. and PzGr 40 ammo belts. The first provides a boost to the vehicle's anti-air capabilities, being completely filled with high explosive shells, and the second turns the Flakpanzer into a deadly anti-tank machine with high-penetration HVAP rounds.

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

{{main|FlaK38 (20 mm)}}

The gun is the same as its predecessor, the FlaK38. It has sufficient HE shells for planes, 46 mm penetration AP-I, and 64 mm penetration HVAP. The belt size is identical. Reload between clips is long. The gun can pen most things the tank encounters, barring Valentines, Matildas, B1 bis, B1 ter, and T-28E.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[FlaK38 (20 mm)|20 mm FlaK38]] || 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" | 1,080 (20) || rowspan="2" | 480 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+90° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 30.82 || 42.66 || 51.79 || 57.28 || 60.94 || rowspan="2" | 3.90 || rowspan="2" | 3.45 || rowspan="2" | 3.18 || rowspan="2" | 3.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 20.83 || 24.50 || 29.75 || 32.90 || 35.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====

* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''Sprgr.:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}
* '''PzGr.40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}

{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belts
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Default || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| Sprgr. || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
|-
| PzGr || 36 || 34 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
| PzGr.40 || 64 || 63 || 26 || 19 || 14 || 10
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Belt details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Sprgr. || HEFI-T || 900 || 0.115 || 0.3 || 0.1 || 10.2 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
| PzGr || API-T || 780 || 0.147 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
|}

==== [[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
! Visual discrepancy
|-
| '''54''' || 1 ''(+53)'' || Yes
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

=== As an SPAA: ===
At the start of the match, you can camp around the spawn point and wait until the enemy planes show up, this is the safest way, but it's passive and not efficient in terms of getting kills.

When shooting planes, avoid opening fire when the plane is far away from you. This will only waste your ammo and give your position away to both the plane and the tanks. Instead you have two tactics: one is to passively wait until the plane flies close and is unaware of you, then suddenly open fire. The other tactic is a bit risky. First find a good cover so you are not likely to get shot from tanks. Then regardless of the plane's distance from you, fire some random shells at it to get their attention. Once they know you're there, a lot of pilots will turn towards you and try to kill you, knowing that SPAAs usually have weak protection. When they're flying head-on towards you, use the fast fire rate and spray a stream of shells in their path and wait for them to crash into your shells, then quickly move away to dodge the bullets. Tip: aim slightly above the plane to compensate for the shell drop, as the distance between you and the plane is usually greater than you think.

In the late stages of the match you should be even more careful, as at this time most people will take out their SPAAs, and those fast-firing guns are your biggest threat. Try and be more aware of the surrounding situations, avoid running into anyone. Use the mobility to flank and the small profile to ambush.

=== As an MBT: ===
Another very effective play style is to use the Flakpanzer's great mobility and good armour penetration to attack even heavy tanks like the [[Churchill I|Churchill]], and the [[Matilda III|Matilda]], which are rather commonly encountered. Load the Pzgr. 40, if you have access to it, or, if you haven't, load the Pzgr.. These will make short work of light tanks ([[BT-5]]/[[BT-7|7]], [[M24]], [[M3/M5 Stuart (Family)|Stuarts]], etc.), medium tanks (like the [[M4A3 (105)]]), SPGs (like the [[SU-76D|SU-76]], [[SU-122]] or even [[StuG III F|StuG III]]), and many others. Your main goal is to flank, as a front encounter will only result in your death if the enemy isn't a light tank. You can penetrate front armour of most mediums, and don't hesitate to if you need, but your best option is always for a surprise attack. The Pzgr. has HE filler, but decreased penetration to the Pzgr. 40, so it is recomended to use the mixed belt. '''Engage enemy planes only if they are posing a threat to you, or they are very weak, like biplanes, as your AP belt won't deal much damage to others.''' If you encounter the Matilda or the Churchill frontally, or facing you, send a quick belt towards the gun barrel and around, to disable both cannon and MG. Then ram it to get maximum penetration and shoot it in the neck until it blows away. '''Note: If you see you are going to detonate a rack, go away and shoot from 10m+, otherwise the explosion will kill you.'''

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Great firepower: wonderful combination of rapid firerate, adequate velocity, 20 round mag and various belt types- Sprgr. belt is destructive against low tier aircraft, while PzGr 40 is very deadly against armoured targets (eg. [[M3A3 (Italy)|M3A3]], [[T-60]] or even the [[B1 bis]])
* Fast turret traverse allows it to keep up with close/fast targets easily, while the great gun elevation and depression means it can fight in any terrain
* Small frontal profile allows it to hide behind cover or bushes easily, which mitigates against its lack of protection
* Decent top speed of 42 km/h means it can get to certain positions alongside light tanks, which is great for ambushing
* Thin turret armour can make some shells over-penetrate, dealing little damage
* Hull armour can resist 12.7 mm bullets, commonly used on US tanks like [[M13 MGMC]] and [[M8 Greyhound (Family)|M8 Greyhound]]

'''Cons:'''

* Extremely poor survivability: only two crew protected by thin armour makes it easily to get destroyed by overpressure
* Rather long reload time requires strict trigger control
* The PzGr 40 belt is mixed with low-penetrating belts, reducing its anti-tank capability as half of the shells sometimes won't be able to penetrate
* Slow reverse speed of only -6 km/h can get the player killed due to not being able to retreat from danger quickly

== History ==


=== In-game description ===
The Flakpanzer 38(t) self-propelled anti-air mount was a temporary transitional version that was used until the development of a real anti-air tank on the chassis of the Panzer IV was completed. The vehicle was produced from November, 1943 to February, 1944. The first 87 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles appeared at the front in January, 1944 and made up Flugabwehrzug (AA platoons) in tank divisions and tank grenadier divisions (sometimes in Waffen SS divisions such as the Hitlerjugend 12th Waffen SS division in Norway in 1944).

In 1944-1945 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were used actively on the Italian and Western Fronts, where they were effective against low-flying aircraft.

A total of 141 Flakpanzer 38(t) AA vehicles were released.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=spaa&vehicle=germ_flakpanzer_38t_Gepard Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|naeDoEwZ5Pg|'''German SPAAs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:19 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|BawYltMDHtg|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== See also ==


;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

* [[Flakpanzer I]]
* [[Ta-Se]]

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

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

{{Germany anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Pz.Kpfw. Churchill (Germany)

2021-06-22T12:14:23Z

U8359201:

{{About
| about = captured heavy tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Churchill (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_infanterie_kampfpanzer_churchill
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} premium German heavy tank {{Battle-rating}}. This vehicle was introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]].

The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is a German captured [[Churchill Mk III]] in the German tech tree. It has virtually no differences to its British tech-tree counterpart, other than being painted grey (with the same tone as the Panzer IV and Panzer III).

The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is one of the best heavy tanks in rank III, sporting heavy frontal armour, a 6 pounder gun that is suitable for its rank, and 30 smoke grenades that are fired separately from the roof, great for covering great areas with smoke. The Churchill also has great gun depression and turret traverse, meaning it can fire at different targets very efficiently.

This vehicle has a few weaknesses which are important to be aware of before charging into battle. First is its low acceleration with a maximum speed of only 24.9 km/h, so it's merely jogging speed as opposed to charging. The tank is also very bulky, difficult to manoeuvre, and a large target. Combine those weaknesses with thin roof armour, and this tank becomes the perfect prey for fighter-bombers and rocket attacks. The side armour is not as strong as it's frontal armour, meaning it is vulnerable to flanking.

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


There are very few enemies which can successfully penetrate the Churchill, the [[M10 GMC|M10]] and the [[Achilles]] can quickly take care of this vehicle even at long ranges! Other tanks like the [[Jagdpanzer IV]], the [[Jagdpanzer 38(t)]], and the [[Dicker Max]] can also make quick work of the Churchill, but only in arcade battles, as in realistic battles, they all belong in the same tree.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 452|rbMinHp= 310}}

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

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

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[6pdr OQF Mk.V (57 mm)|57 mm 6pdr OQF Mk.V]] || 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" | 85 || rowspan="2" | -12°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Vertical || 19.42 || 26.88 || 32.64 || 36.10 || 38.40 || rowspan="2" | 5.20 || rowspan="2" | 4.60 || rowspan="2" | 4.24 || rowspan="2" | 4.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.28 || 16.80 || 20.40 || 22.56 || 24.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Shot Mk.8 || APC || 116 || 111 || 94 || 76 || 62 || 50
|-
| Shot Mk.5 HV || AP || 115 || 111 || 93 || 75 || 60 || 49
|-
| Shot Mk.9 || APCBC || 132 || 127 || 110 || 91 || 75 || 63
|-
| Shell Mk.10 || HE || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Shot Mk.8 || APC || 883 || 2.87 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
| Shot Mk.5 HV || AP || 891 || 2.8 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
| Shot Mk.9 || APCBC || 847 || 3.23 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
| Shell Mk.10 || HE || 655 || 2.72 || 0.1 || 0.1 || 590 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_Churchill_III.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the Churchill III (identical)]]

{| 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
|-
| '''85''' || 82 ''(+3)'' || 43 ''(+42)'' || 22 ''(+63)'' || 5 ''(+80)'' || 1 ''(+84)'' || No
|-
|}
Notes:

* Racks disappear after all shells in the rack have been shot or loaded.
* Turret empty: 82 ''(+3)'' shells.

==== Optics ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} [[Optics]]
|-
! Which ones
! Default magnification
! Maximum magnification
|-
! Main Gun optics
| x1.85 || x3.5
|-
! Comparable optics
| colspan="2" | [[Pz.IV G]]
|-
|}

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

{{main|BESA (7.92 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[BESA (7.92 mm)|7.92 mm BESA]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 9,350 (225) || 600 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

Like its British counterpart, the Churchill can be used as a very efficient brawler with its excellent turret traverse and gun depression, and heavy frontal armour. Though in urban environments, you should be careful in case someone tries to flank your weak side and rear armour.

This tank can be effectively be played in a brawling style, going into the front lines. This tank, due to it's excellent armour and gun, can even hold off an entire enemy flank with minimal backup. In city maps, be careful not to expose your side armour as it is quite weak and your engine might get damaged. With it's good gun, it can be as a support tank as well, in the second line destroying tanks. Angle your armour to maximize it's effectiveness. When frontally angled, even the sides will be tough to penetrate. Many tanks will struggle penetrating you. There are some tanks that you don't even need to worry at all penetrating you from the front, such as the Panzer III. Angling your armour will make you even tough against the high penetration Panzer IV F2. However, be aware of higher penetration tanks. The M10 is a worthy mention as most of the time it might be able to penetrate your armour. The far deadlier Achilles can penetrate your front with little effort. Thus, it is advised to take cover, angle, or destroy them first. Shermans are not much threat since they won't really penetrate your armour, but sometimes they do. They are easy to deal with as your 57 mm gun can punch straight through. Your 57 oddly does a lot of damage for a 57 mm gun. It can one shot Panzer III's, and sometimes Shermans if you aim correctly. Overall, the Churchill III is a very powerful Rank III vehicle that is capable of holding off an entire flank, while destroying tanks easily in quick succession.

If you are not in an up-tiered situation, you can effectively enter a battle and absorb all the enemy rounds which could've been fired at your weaker teammates and either engage the enemy with your 57 mm cannon or let your teammates return fire. Companion vehicles such as the [[Pz.IV F2|Panzer IV F2]], "[[8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl.|Flakbus]]" and other German vehicles possess superior firepower compared to the other country vehicles in rank III (Except for other special TD's, such as the American [[M10 GMC|M10]] and British [[Achilles]]) and can in most cases hold their own.

=== Pros and cons ===

'''Pros:'''

* Long, tough hull is easily angled
* 90 mm turret armour is effective at medium & long range
* Large tracks can absorb shells fired at the side
* Fast turret traverse, easy to engage people without turning
* 57 mm gun reloads quickly
* Good penetration
* Slow speed makes it easy to hit enemies after a shortstop
* 30 individually fired smoke grenades, great for covering points and areas with smoke

'''Cons:'''

* No HE filler for any rounds, unless hitting an ammo rack, it will require multiple shots to take the target down
* Large target, easily spotted by bombers/fighter-bombers
* Very poor speed, both forward and backward
* Unangled armour fares poorly at close ranges
* Lack of camouflage, only urban grey and winter livery
* Machine gun port is only 50 mm
* Roof armour is very thin, may be penetrated by 7,62mm machine guns if they hit it.
* Engine mostly affected when hit from the side or turret
* Large tracks are vulnerable to damage

== History ==

The German military first encountered the [[Churchill (Family)|Churchill]] tank in August of 1942, following the disastrous Dieppe raid made by British and Canadian military elements. On August 8th, the Churchill Mk IV made its debut, as almost 60 of them had been allocated to assist the 6,000 British and Canadian troops raiding the beach. Of those, only the first 30 were deployed, and of those 30, one became trapped in its damaged landing craft, another two sank, and 11 were disabled by indirect fire and rough terrain. Despite the losses, this was the first successful use of heavy tanks in amphibious landings. In the chaotic evacuation that followed, the tanks that had deployed and survived the raid were unable to be recovered by the British and were abandoned. They, along with many other examples of British equipment, were captured by the Germans.

These tanks were later evaluated by the Germans. Though none were damaged by direct anti-tank fire, the Germans had come to the conclusion that the tanks were virtually obsolete, too underpowered and lacking proper firepower. Two of the twenty-nine tanks captured at Dieppe were used as ''Beutepanzers'' and saw service with the German military, repainted into the German standard gray coloration and marked with prominent Iron Crosses on the sides of the turret. The rest of the captured Churchills were repurpoused for secondary combat roles, destroyed, or taken apart, with their turrets being used as improvised beach defenses at Dieppe after the raid.

== Media ==


;Skins

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

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|0LHf6Jlb8yg|'''Infanterie Pz.Kpfw. Churchill Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== 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.''

{{Germany heavy tanks}}
{{Germany premium ground vehicles}}

Pz.Kpfw. Churchill (Germany)

2021-06-21T23:00:14Z

U8359201: /* Usage in battles */

{{About
| about = captured heavy tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Churchill (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_infanterie_kampfpanzer_churchill
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} premium German heavy tank {{Battle-rating}}. This vehicle was introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]].

The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is a German captured [[Churchill Mk III]] in the German tech tree. It has virtually no differences to its British tech-tree counterpart, other than being painted grey (with the same tone as the Panzer IV and Panzer III).

The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is one of the best heavy tanks in rank III, sporting heavy frontal armour, a 6 pounder gun that is suitable for its rank, and 30 smoke grenades that are fired separately from the roof, great for covering great areas with smoke. The Churchill also has great gun depression and turret traverse, meaning it can fire at different targets very efficiently.

This vehicle has a few weaknesses which are important to be aware of before charging into battle. First is its low acceleration with a maximum speed of only 24.9 km/h, so it's merely jogging speed as opposed to charging. The tank is also very bulky, difficult to manoeuvre, and a large target. Combine those weaknesses with thin roof armour, and this tank becomes the perfect prey for fighter-bombers and rocket attacks. The side armour is not as strong as it's frontal armour, meaning it is vulnerable to flanking.

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


There are very few enemies which can successfully penetrate the Churchill, the [[M10 GMC|M10]] and the [[Achilles]] can quickly take care of this vehicle even at long ranges! Other tanks like the [[Jagdpanzer IV]], the [[Jagdpanzer 38(t)]], and the [[Dicker Max]] can also make quick work of the Churchill, but only in arcade battles, as in realistic battles, they all belong in the same tree.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 452|rbMinHp= 310}}

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

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

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[6pdr OQF Mk.V (57 mm)|57 mm 6pdr OQF Mk.V]] || 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" | 85 || rowspan="2" | -12°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Vertical || 19.42 || 26.88 || 32.64 || 36.10 || 38.40 || rowspan="2" | 5.20 || rowspan="2" | 4.60 || rowspan="2" | 4.24 || rowspan="2" | 4.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.28 || 16.80 || 20.40 || 22.56 || 24.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Shot Mk.8 || APC || 116 || 111 || 94 || 76 || 62 || 50
|-
| Shot Mk.5 HV || AP || 115 || 111 || 93 || 75 || 60 || 49
|-
| Shot Mk.9 || APCBC || 132 || 127 || 110 || 91 || 75 || 63
|-
| Shell Mk.10 || HE || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Shot Mk.8 || APC || 883 || 2.87 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
| Shot Mk.5 HV || AP || 891 || 2.8 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
| Shot Mk.9 || APCBC || 847 || 3.23 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
| Shell Mk.10 || HE || 655 || 2.72 || 0.1 || 0.1 || 590 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_Churchill_III.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the Churchill III (identical)]]

{| 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
|-
| '''85''' || 82 ''(+3)'' || 43 ''(+42)'' || 22 ''(+63)'' || 5 ''(+80)'' || 1 ''(+84)'' || No
|-
|}
Notes:

* Racks disappear after all shells in the rack have been shot or loaded.
* Turret empty: 82 ''(+3)'' shells.

==== Optics ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} [[Optics]]
|-
! Which ones
! Default magnification
! Maximum magnification
|-
! Main Gun optics
| x1.85 || x3.5
|-
! Comparable optics
| colspan="2" | [[Pz.IV G]]
|-
|}

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

{{main|BESA (7.92 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[BESA (7.92 mm)|7.92 mm BESA]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 9,350 (225) || 600 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

Like its British counterpart, the Churchill can be used as a very efficient brawler with its excellent turret traverse and gun depression, and heavy frontal armour. Though in urban environments, you should be careful in case someone tries to flank your weak side and rear armour.

As this tank's class says, it's an assault tank. It is effectively played in a brawling style, going into the front lines. It's decent post-penetration damage, high rate of fire, and superb front armour will make a wonderful frontline attacker. In open maps, loike Mozdok or Sands of Sinai, pushing is a great option, setting your automatic march on 2 and advancing non-stop. Also, it is featured with a [[gun stabilizer]], making the Churchill perfom even better at this strategie. This tank, due to it's excellent armour, can even hold off an entire enemy flank with minimal backup. In city maps, be careful not to expose your side armour as it is quite weak and your engine might get damaged. With it's good gun, it can be as a support tank as well, in the second line destroying tanks. Angle your armour to maximize it's effectiveness. When frontally angled, even the sides will be tough to penetrate. Many tanks will struggle penetrating you. There are some tanks that you don't even need to worry at all penetrating you from the front, such as the Panzer III. Angling your armour will make you even tough against the high penetration Panzer IV F2. However, be aware of higher penetration tanks. The M10 is a worthy mention as most of the time it might be able to penetrate your armour. The far deadlier Achilles can penetrate your front with little effort. Thus, it is advised to take cover, angle, or destroy them first. Shermans are not much threat since they won't really penetrate your armour, but sometimes they do. They are easy to deal with as your 57 mm gun can punch straight through. Your 57 oddly does a lot of damage for a 57 mm gun. It can one shot Panzer III's, and sometimes Shermans if you aim correctly. Overall, the Churchill III is a very powerful Rank III vehicle that is capable of holding off an entire flank, while destroying tanks easily in quick succession.

If you are not in an up-tiered situation, you can effectively enter a battle and absorb all the enemy rounds which could've been fired at your weaker teammates and either engage the enemy with your 57 mm cannon or let your teammates return fire. Companion vehicles such as the [[Pz.IV F2|Panzer IV F2]], "[[8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl.|Flakbus]]" and other German vehicles possess superior firepower compared to the other country vehicles in rank III (Except for other special TD's, such as the American [[M10 GMC|M10]] and British [[Achilles]]) and can in most cases hold their own.

=== Enemies worth noting ===

* [[M10 GMC]]: This tank can and '''will''' penetrate your armour even angled at close and medium range (~500m). In case of close-quarter encounter, try to have the first shot if it didn't see you. If it saw you, aim to the gun barrel or lower glacis, since the turret has few weakspots not worth aiming to. If you don't have the first shot try to put your gun barrel towards his shot (as crazy as this may sound, it works), as it is very armoured and will stop the shot. After your gun barrel is destroyed, use the Wolverine's slow reload time to escape.
* [[M18 GMC]]: This tank has even more pentrating power than the M10, but it is less armoured, an you can penetrate it anywhere. In order to destroy it with one shot, aim to either one of the two hull upper edges or the left side of the turret. This will detonate the racks and kill the gunner. There is not much to do if it has the first shot, except for the barrel tactics described above.
* [[Pz.IV F2]]/[[Pz.IV G|G]]/[[Pz.IV H|H]]: This family of tanks will only be met in Ground Arcade Battles, since RB are country-selective, but they are fearsome opponents. The last two will most likely one-shot you with ease, so you must be very careful. Shoot at the front plate, preferably at the right side, which may knock out the driver and gunner. If angled, your only chance is to destroy it's gun barrel and later advance to a better shooting position.

=== Pros and cons ===

'''Pros:'''

* Long, tough hull is easily angled
* 90 mm turret armour is effective at medium & long range
* Large tracks can absorb shells fired at the side
* Fast turret traverse, easy to engage people without turning
* 57 mm gun reloads quickly
* Good penetration
* Slow speed makes it easy to hit enemies after a shortstop
* 30 individually fired smoke grenades, great for covering points and areas with smoke

'''Cons:'''

* No HE filler for any rounds, unless hitting an ammo rack, it will require multiple shots to take the target down
* Large target, easily spotted by bombers/fighter-bombers
* Very poor speed, both forward and backward
* Unangled armour fares poorly at close ranges
* Lack of camouflage, only urban grey and winter livery
* Machine gun port is only 50 mm
* Roof armour is very thin
* Engine mostly affected when hit from the side or turret
* Large tracks are vulnerable to damage

== History ==

The German military first encountered the [[Churchill (Family)|Churchill]] tank in August of 1942, following the disastrous Dieppe raid made by British and Canadian military elements. On August 8th, the Churchill Mk IV made its debut, as almost 60 of them had been allocated to assist the 6,000 British and Canadian troops raiding the beach. Of those, only the first 30 were deployed, and of those 30, one became trapped in its damaged landing craft, another two sank, and 11 were disabled by indirect fire and rough terrain. Despite the losses, this was the first successful use of heavy tanks in amphibious landings. In the chaotic evacuation that followed, the tanks that had deployed and survived the raid were unable to be recovered by the British and were abandoned. They, along with many other examples of British equipment, were captured by the Germans.

These tanks were later evaluated by the Germans. Though none were damaged by direct anti-tank fire, the Germans had come to the conclusion that the tanks were virtually obsolete, too underpowered and lacking proper firepower. Two of the twenty-nine tanks captured at Dieppe were used as ''Beutepanzers'' and saw service with the German military, repainted into the German standard gray coloration and marked with prominent Iron Crosses on the sides of the turret. The rest of the captured Churchills were repurpoused for secondary combat roles, destroyed, or taken apart, with their turrets being used as improvised beach defenses at Dieppe after the raid.

== Media ==


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

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|0LHf6Jlb8yg|'''Infanterie Pz.Kpfw. Churchill Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}

== 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.''

{{Germany heavy tanks}}
{{Germany premium ground vehicles}}

Pz.Kpfw. Churchill (Germany)

2021-06-21T21:09:59Z

U8359201: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = captured British heavy tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other Churchill tanks
| link = Churchill (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=germ_infanterie_kampfpanzer_churchill
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} premium German heavy tank {{Battle-rating}}. This vehicle was introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]].

The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is a German captured [[Churchill Mk III]] in the German tech tree. It has virtually no differences to its British tech-tree counterpart, other than being painted grey (with the same tone as the Panzer IV and Panzer III).

The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is one of the best heavy tanks in rank III, sporting heavy frontal armour, a 6 pounder gun that is suitable for its rank, and 30 smoke grenades that are fired separately from the roof, great for covering great areas with smoke. The Churchill also has great gun depression and turret traverse, meaning it can fire at different targets very efficiently.

This vehicle has a few weaknesses which are important to be aware of before charging into battle. First is its low acceleration with a maximum speed of only 24.9 km/h, so it's merely jogging speed as opposed to charging. The tank is also very bulky, difficult to manoeuvre, and a large target. Combine those weaknesses with thin roof armour, and this tank becomes the perfect prey for fighter-bombers and rocket attacks. The side armour is not as strong as it's frontal armour, meaning it is vulnerable to flanking.

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


There are very few enemies which can successfully penetrate the Churchill, the [[M10 GMC|M10]] and the [[Achilles]] can quickly take care of this vehicle even at long ranges! Other tanks like the [[Jagdpanzer IV]], the [[Jagdpanzer 38(t)]], and the [[Dicker Max]] can also make quick work of the Churchill, but only in arcade battles, as in realistic battles, they all belong in the same tree.

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


{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 452|rbMinHp= 310|}}

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

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

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[6pdr OQF Mk.V (57 mm)|57 mm 6pdr OQF Mk.V]] || 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" | 85 || rowspan="2" | -12°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Vertical || 19.42 || 26.88 || 32.64 || 36.10 || 38.40 || rowspan="2" | 5.20 || rowspan="2" | 4.60 || rowspan="2" | 4.24 || rowspan="2" | 4.00
|-
! ''Realistic''
| 14.28 || 16.80 || 20.40 || 22.56 || 24.00
|-
|}

==== Ammunition ====
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
|-
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
|-
| Shot Mk.8 || APC || 116 || 111 || 94 || 76 || 62 || 50
|-
| Shot Mk.5 HV || AP || 115 || 111 || 93 || 75 || 60 || 49
|-
| Shot Mk.9 || APCBC || 132 || 127 || 110 || 91 || 75 || 63
|-
| Shell Mk.10 || HE || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9
|-
|}
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
! colspan="10" | Shell details
|-
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
! rowspan="2" | Type of warhead
! rowspan="2" | Velocity (m/s)
! rowspan="2" | Projectile Mass (kg)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay (m)
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity (mm)
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass (TNT equivalent) (g)
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
|-
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
|-
| Shot Mk.8 || APC || 883 || 2.87 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
| Shot Mk.5 HV || AP || 891 || 2.8 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
| Shot Mk.9 || APCBC || 847 || 3.23 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
| Shell Mk.10 || HE || 655 || 2.72 || 0.1 || 0.1 || 590 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}

==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
[[File:Ammoracks_Churchill_III.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the Churchill III (identical)]]

{| 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
|-
| '''85''' || 82 ''(+3)'' || 43 ''(+42)'' || 22 ''(+63)'' || 5 ''(+80)'' || 1 ''(+84)'' || No
|-
|}
Notes:

* Racks disappear after all shells in the rack have been shot or loaded.
* Turret empty: 82 ''(+3)'' shells.

==== Optics ====


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} [[Optics]]
|-
! Which ones
! Default magnification
! Maximum magnification
|-
! Main Gun optics
| x1.85 || x3.5 
|-
! Comparable optics
| colspan="2" | [[Pz.IV G]]
|-
|}

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

{{main|BESA (7.92 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | [[BESA (7.92 mm)|7.92 mm BESA]]
|-
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
|-
| Coaxial || 9,350 (225) || 600 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

Like its British counterpart, the Churchill can be used as a very efficient brawler with its excellent turret traverse and gun depression, and heavy frontal armour. Though in urban environments, you should be careful in case someone tries to flank your weak side and rear armour.

This tank can be effectively be played in a brawling style, going into the front lines. This tank, due to it's excellent armour and gun, can even hold off an entire enemy flank with minimal backup. In city maps, be careful not to expose your side armour as it is quite weak and your engine might get damaged. With it's good gun, it can be as a support tank as well, in the second line destroying tanks. Angle your armour to maximize it's effectiveness. When frontally angled, even the sides will be tough to penetrate. Many tanks will struggle penetrating you. There are some tanks that you don't even need to worry at all penetrating you from the front, such as the Panzer III. Angling your armour will make you even tough against the high penetration Panzer IV F2. However, be aware of higher penetration tanks. The M10 is a worthy mention as most of the time it might be able to penetrate your armour. The far deadlier Achilles can penetrate your front with little effort. Thus, it is advised to take cover, angle, or destroy them first. Shermans are not much threat since they won't really penetrate your armour, but sometimes they do. They are easy to deal with as your 57 mm gun can punch straight through. Your 57 oddly does a lot of damage for a 57 mm gun. It can one shot Panzer III's, and sometimes Shermans if you aim correctly. Overall, the Churchill III is a very powerful Rank III vehicle that is capable of holding off an entire flank, while destroying tanks easily in quick succession.

If you are not in an up-tiered situation, you can effectively enter a battle and absorb all the enemy rounds which could've been fired at your weaker teammates and either engage the enemy with your 57 mm cannon or let your teammates return fire. Companion vehicles such as the [[Pz.IV F2|Panzer IV F2]], "[[8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl.|Flakbus]]" and other German vehicles possess superior firepower compared to the other country vehicles in rank III (Except for other special TD's, such as the American [[M10 GMC|M10]] and British [[Achilles]]) and can in most cases hold their own.

=== Pros and cons ===

'''Pros:'''

* Long, tough hull is easily angled
* 90 mm turret armour is effective at medium & long range
* Large tracks can absorb shells fired at the side
* Fast turret traverse; easy to engage people without turning
* 57 mm gun reloads quickly
* Good penetration
* Premium tank earns more rewards after a match
* Fewer enemies that can kill you in RB and SB, as you are in the German tree
* Slow speed makes it easy to hit enemies after a shortstop
* 30 individually fired smoke grenades, great for covering points and areas with smoke

'''Cons:'''

* No HE filler for any rounds, unless hitting an ammo rack, it will require multiple shots to take the target down
* Large target; easily spotted by bombers/fighter-bombers
* Very poor speed, both forward and backward
* Unangled armour fares poorly at close ranges
* Lack of camouflage; only Urban grey and Winter
* Machine gun port is only 50 mm
* Roof armour is very thin, may be penetrated even by 7.62mm machine guns
* Engine mostly affected when hit from the side or turret
* Large tracks are vulnerable to damage

== History ==

The German military first encountered the [[Churchill (Family)|Churchill]] tank in August of 1942, following the disastrous Dieppe raid made by British and Canadian military elements. On August 8th, the Churchill Mk IV made its debut, as almost 60 of them had been allocated to assist the 6,000 British and Canadian troops raiding the beach. Of those, only the first 30 were deployed, and of those 30, one became trapped in its damaged landing craft, another two sank, and 11 were disabled by indirect fire and rough terrain. Despite the losses, this was the first successful use of heavy tanks in amphibious landings. In the chaotic evacuation that followed, the tanks that had deployed and survived the raid were unable to be recovered by the British and were abandoned. They, along with many other examples of British equipment, were captured by the Germans.

These tanks were later evaluated by the Germans. Though none were damaged by direct anti-tank fire, the Germans had come to the conclusion that the tanks were virtually obsolete, too underpowered and lacking proper firepower. Two of the twenty-nine tanks captured at Dieppe were used as ''Beutepanzers'' and saw service with the German military, repainted into the German standard gray coloration and marked with prominent Iron Crosses on the sides of the turret. The rest of the captured Churchills were repurpoused for secondary combat roles, destroyed, or taken apart, with their turrets being used as improvised beach defenses at Dieppe after the raid.

== Media ==

{{Youtube
| url = 7fRkADxtNPg
}}

== 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;''
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
* ''other literature.''

{{Germany heavy tanks}}
{{Germany premium ground vehicles}}

Bf 109 G-6

2021-06-21T20:18:24Z

U8359201: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Bf 109 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=bf-109g-6
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

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

The Bf 109 G-6 is a difficult plane to fly when it is in stock configuration. Once upgraded, it performs well enough to even the playing field and allows an enjoyable experience. This variant is played much like its predecessors, by using energy fighting. Because of its poor performance, it's imperative to keep your energy state high at all times.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,500 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 636 || 616 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 21.3 || 22.1 || 14.0 || 14.0 || rowspan="2" | 343
|-
! Upgraded
| 705 || 668 || 19.3 || 20.0 || 27.6 || 19.5
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 437 || 408 || 260 || ~13 || ~6
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 450 || < 390 || < 450 || > 715
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 5,700 m || 1,270 hp || 1,778 hp
|-
|}

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


* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front and rear of the cockpit.
* 4-8 mm Steel plates on pilot seat.
* 10 mm Steel plates around pilot's head.
* 21 mm Steel plate on the rear of the fuel tank, with 4 mm plates surrounding it on other sides.

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

The Bf 109 G-6 performs badly in stock conditions with an armament that is vastly inferior to other fighters. This changes drastically with upgrades. They are listed in the order in which they should be acquired.

* ''Offensive 13 mm'' (for removing the tracers and getting an idea of where your cannon rounds land)
* ''Radiator''
* ''Compressor''
* ''Offensive 20 mm'' (the stock belts are abhorrent with only 25% of glorious minengeschosse)
* ''Engine''
* ''U4 modification'' (do not equip it now, the single 30 mm is a bit inconsistent)
* ''Offensive 30 mm'' (for later use)
* ''Engine injection''
* ''Gunpods'' (depending on which you like more take the 30s (R5) or 20s (R6), though generally, the 30s are more sensible since when engaging fighters gun pods are more of a hindrance and the 30s are very useful against bombers)

Afterwards, get all the cannon and machine gun upgrades and the remaining ones for better flight characteristics. Bombs and rockets should be ignored until you have researched everything else since they are not very useful.

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

{{main|MK 108 (30 mm)|MG 151 (20 mm)|MG 131 (13 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 20 mm MG 151 cannon, nose-mounted (200 rpg) + 2 x 13 mm MG 131 machine guns, nose-mounted (300 rpg = 600 total)
** 1 x 30 mm MK 108 cannon, nose-mounted (65 rpg) + 2 x 13 mm MG 131 machine guns, nose-mounted (300 rpg = 600 total)

The two machine guns are located just forward of the pilot firing out of the nose of the aircraft. The cannon (either 20 mm or 30 mm) is mounted in the propeller shaft and will fire through the propeller hub. The 30 mm cannon can only be installed once the corresponding module at tier III is unlocked. The best 20 mm belt is "Air Targets", the best 13 mm belt is "IAI" or "Stealth" and the best 30 mm belt is the "Universal" or "Stealth".

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

{{main|SC50JA (50 kg)|SC250JA (250 kg)|Wfr.Gr.21|MK 108 (30 mm)|MG 151 (20 mm)}}

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

* Without load
* 4 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (200 kg total)
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb (250 kg total)
* 2 x 30 mm MK 108 cannons, gunpods (wing-mounted) (35 rpg = 70 total)
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, gunpods (wing-mounted) (135 rpg = 270 total)
* 2 x Wfr.Gr.21 rockets

== Usage in battles ==

When stock, you should side climb and enter combat with a superior altitude before engaging. Your enemies will render you ineffective if you don't have the height advantage. However, when it's fully upgraded you might omit side-climbing as the plane should generally get you either at the same altitude or above the opponent. WEP is very effective, so use it to get to an effective altitude in the least amount of time. The engine overheats quite fast, but it also cools down rapidly. Don't be afraid to use WEP even if your temperature is yellow or red.

If you're engaging an enemy while you have an energy advantage, you should do everything in your power to keep or regain this advantage while depleting his. The Bf 109 can achieve this through the use of energy traps like rope-a-dopes, and to disengage when a foe avoids your boom. When neither you or the enemy has an advantage, you should avoid head-ons with the least amount of energy waste. Most of the time the enemy tries to get back on your 6 o clock, which drains his energy much more than yours. This gives you the opportunity to extend, climb, or bait him into an energy trap. Should you, however, face an enemy with superior altitude or speed, attempt to evade his booms on you or force him to overshoot.

When it comes to armament you have the choice of a 20 or 30 mm cannon in the engine, and gun pods of the same calibre. The 20 mm gun has good gun characteristics with decent damage and a good ammo count, while the 30 mm deals devastating damage but has a low ammo capacity and a very slow shell velocity. The gun pods aren't recommended in realistic battles as they dramatically decrease the plane's performance.

In Simulator, the Bf 109 G-6 is quite a friendly fighter that can perform many tasks. It offers great flight performance with its smooth handling, adequate speed, and impressive climb rate and turn rate. Its nose-mounted guns do not require any convergence setting, making it very easy to aim. The nose gently slopes down from the windscreen, offering great over-the-nose visibility. The late G models also have an improved canopy side with less frames, and the solid armour headset is replaced by a transparent bulletproof glass, allowing some rear views which is better over the F models. Said bulletproof glass, however, has a thick metal frame, thus you can only see through the middle at a small portion of the tail. Still this is better than not being able to see anything behind at all. There are bombs of 50kg/250kg to choose from which are beneficial for ground-pounding or base-bombing, although these are not its primary objectives. However, the Bf 109 G does have pretty limited cockpit view obstructed by its numerous canopy frames and handles. The inclusion of two 13mm MG131 creates two large, visible bulges on the nose, just in front of the windscreen, obstructing the pilot's downward view. The plane also behaves poorly during takeoffs due to its torquey engine.

Bring at least 30 minutes of fuel for prolonged patrolling and fighting. The convergence does not really matter, it might be anywhere between 250-600 m. Depending on the task you wish to complete (eg destroy enemy attackers), gunpods can be helpful, if available. Although they slightly worsen the flight performance, that extra burst mass can be the difference between a "Hit" and "Aircraft destroyed". Finally, you can set keys for vertical head movement, as lifting up your head a little helps improving the over-the-nose visibility which helps you to track target.

Taking off in a late Bf 109 is harder than other aircraft, so one should familiarise themselves with the earlier 109s. When taking off, the Bf 109 will shift severely to the left side due to the huge torque, so consider setting keybinds for left and right brakes, as they are more effective at directional control than the rudder while on the ground. As the plane just lifts off the ground it will automatically roll to the left again due to the torque, so you must immediately roll a little right to keep it level, or the left wingtip will strike the ground.

Dogfighting in SB involves everyday RB tactics and manoeuvres such as Immelmann, Split-S, scissor, barrel roll, etc. Note: the Bf 109 handles very sluggishly in the roll axis at low speed, so take this into account if dogfighting at low speed/altitude. You can even pull the elevator fully for maximum agility, but only if you pull gently and gradually will the 109 manoeuvre as you wish. If the stick is pulled harshly and suddenly, the plane will start swaying around and enter a flat spin. The aircraft can quite easily recover from a flat spin by fully deflecting elevators downward and rudder to the opposite side of which the plane is spinning, and wait until it starts a dive and gather some speed to pull up.

* If you want to engage bombers, consider bring gunpods to maximise your damage output. Against late-war heavy bombers like B-17, relying solely on the one central cannon might also work, but that requires more professional evading and longer aiming which is considerably more dangerous, as the bombers you see will be better armed. Choosing between the 30 mm and 20 mm gunpods is up to you. The extra two Mk 108 will significantly boost your one-second burst mass and damage which can be very destructive for experienced pilots doing deflection shots, however the pathetic 35 rounds each gun will not last long in, for example, "destroy enemy bombers" mission where there are ~10 aircraft to down. The pair of MG151 is more balanced in terms of ammo and velocity, although they do not pack as much punch in a short firing window. With the powerful mineshells, 1-3 passes are enough to destroy any aircraft. In fact gunpods can also be helpful in dogfights against fighters, as the slight decrease in performance does not matter a lot in simulator, rather the ability to cripple/destroy the target as soon as you get a chance to is way more important.
* Landing may need practice for some. It is easy at first: decelerate and descent towards the runway, deploy combat, takeoff, landing flaps and gears in such order, fly at ~210 km/h before touchdown. Now note that you must align the plane with the airstrip correctly prior to touchdown and do not yaw/break one side too much when breaking, as the undercarriages are so close together that they cannot support such lateral force, causing the plane to wobble on the tires dangerously or even tilt towards one side, striking a wingtip into the ground. At last, you can break until the plane reaches a full stop and not worry about propeller strike.

====Specific enemies worth noting====

Your worst enemies in the Bf-109 G-6 are the [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfires]] and the [[P-47 (Family)|P-47D/N/M Thunderbolts]]. The Spitfire can out-turn you at almost all altitudes below 4,000 meters. You have to be really careful when engaging a P-47 with an altitude advantage against you. The best thing you can do in that case is to turn away and keep climbing. If the Thunderbolt dives on you, turn into the head-on, fire a few rounds then use your superior roll rate to do a split-S. If a Spitfire engages you DO NOT try to turn with it! If you try, you will have fallen into their trap, your best defence is similar to the tactics employed against the Thunderbolt, split-S and use your roll rate.

====Counter-tactics====

If you're facing this plane, try to deplete its energy and force the plane either low or high. At higher altitudes, the engine performance is poor at best, and at lower ones, the plane loses energy quickly with no fast means to regain it. Avoid head-ons, as the enemy aircraft can potentially carry up to 3 x 30 mm guns.

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

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Extremely good climb rate, even at high altitudes
* Very good energy retention
* Great for stalling out enemies, as the stall control is excellent
* Good low speed manoeuvrability without gunpods: you'll outurn planes like the P-47s and the early P-51s at low speeds
* Can research 2 types of gun pods for greatly increased firepower
* 30mm cannons are extremely effective at bomber-hunting, allied with a great rate of climb, will turn out to be a superb interceptor
* 20mm cannons are wonderful when dogfighting against fighters, due to reasonable damage and high ammo count
* The only Bf-109 G-class with the ability to carry rockets
* The plane is overall very durable, with armour plates covering the only fuel tank
* Very powerful engine when using WEP
* Feels more agile than the [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190s]]
* Very good radiators for being a late war 109, they're responsive and will keep the engine cooler for way longer than the G-2's
* Rather manoeuvrable, in the hands of an experienced pilot may overturn even the mighty Spitfire
* Can feature a pair of Br.21 rockets, enabling it to take out even heavy tanks like the US T29 and Soviet IS-2 in tank realistic battles

'''Cons:'''

* Engine produces less horsepower on 100% throttle than the Bf 109 G-2, while being about 200 kg heavier
* Poor armament: unless using gunpods, head-ons should be avoided at all costs
* Outdated airframe means compression speed and rip speed are lower than most enemies you'll face
* Undergunned and underpowered when stock
* Engine still overheats, although not that often as the F or the G-2 model
* Mounted weaponry/payloads will reduce flight performance significantly
* Low ammo count, unless using gunpods; which sacrifice flight performance
* 30 mm MK 108 cannons have too little ammo (35 rpg) to be an effective weapon in a battle
* Flaps are very sluggish to deploy and they rip at low speed
* 13 mm machine guns don't hit very hard
* For Sim, the numerous canopy frames and razorback greatly limit the all-round view, and huge engine torque causes severe turning when taking off

== History ==


=== In-game description ===
The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a single-seat monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe before and during WWII. It was used as a fighter, interceptor, high-altitude interceptor, fighter-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft.

The Bf 109 G-6 "Gustav" was the most mass-produced variant of the Gustav series. It entered production in the late Autumn of 1942, and was initially designed as a universal platform which could be quickly converted to various roles as needed in field conditions. The G-6 was also equipped with improved engines, either with MW 50 methanol-water injection, or the high-altitude GM-1 nitrous oxide injection. The DB 605AS engine, which used 96-octane fuel, as opposed to 87-octane, could reach over 2,000 HP at 500 m and 1,800 HP at 5,000 m. These variants were designated Bf 109G-6/AS. The armoured seat had a transparent seat back, which significantly improved visibility. A total of 700 /AS aircraft were produced.

In addition to those changes, the G-6 was also the first to house the 30mm MK 108 cannon, which had 60 specially designed incendiary shells. A single hit was usually enough to destroy a single-seat fighter, most bombers needing no more than 4 or 5 hits.

== Media ==


;Skins

* Skin and Camouflages for the [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=aircraft&vehicleClass=fighter&vehicle=bf-109g-6 {{PAGENAME}}] in Warthunder Live.

[[File:Bf 109 G-6 Erica Hartmann.mp4|thumb|"Erica Hartmann" collaboration camouflage|none]]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* North American [[P-51 (Family)|P-51]] Mustang
* Grumman [[F6F (Family)|F6F]] Hellcat
* Focke-Wulf [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
* Fiat [[G.55 serie 1|G.55]]
* Macchi [[C.205N2|C.205]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/316100-messerschmitt-bf-109-g-6/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
* [[wt:en/news/3202--en|[Warrior Profile] Ace of the Month - July - Captain Alexandru Şerbănescu]]

{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
{{Germany fighters}}

Bf 109 G-6

2021-06-21T19:46:04Z

U8359201: /* Pros and cons */

{{About
| about = German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = Bf 109 (Family)
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=bf-109g-6
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

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

The Bf 109 G-6 is a difficult plane to fly when it is in stock configuration. Once upgraded, it performs well enough to even the playing field and allows an enjoyable experience. This variant is played much like its predecessors, by using energy fighting. Because of its poor performance, it's imperative to keep your energy state high at all times.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,500 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 636 || 616 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 21.3 || 22.1 || 14.0 || 14.0 || rowspan="2" | 343
|-
! Upgraded
| 705 || 668 || 19.3 || 20.0 || 27.6 || 19.5
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 437 || 408 || 260 || ~13 || ~6
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 450 || < 390 || < 450 || > 715
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 5,700 m || 1,270 hp || 1,778 hp
|-
|}

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


* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front and rear of the cockpit.
* 4-8 mm Steel plates on pilot seat.
* 10 mm Steel plates around pilot's head.
* 21 mm Steel plate on the rear of the fuel tank, with 4 mm plates surrounding it on other sides.

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

The Bf 109 G-6 performs badly in stock conditions with an armament that is vastly inferior to other fighters. This changes drastically with upgrades. They are listed in the order in which they should be acquired.

* ''Offensive 13 mm'' (for removing the tracers and getting an idea of where your cannon rounds land)
* ''Radiator''
* ''Compressor''
* ''Offensive 20 mm'' (the stock belts are abhorrent with only 25% of glorious minengeschosse)
* ''Engine''
* ''U4 modification'' (do not equip it now, the single 30 mm is a bit inconsistent)
* ''Offensive 30 mm'' (for later use)
* ''Engine injection''
* ''Gunpods'' (depending on which you like more take the 30s (R5) or 20s (R6), though generally, the 30s are more sensible since when engaging fighters gun pods are more of a hindrance and the 30s are very useful against bombers)

Afterwards, get all the cannon and machine gun upgrades and the remaining ones for better flight characteristics. Bombs and rockets should be ignored until you have researched everything else since they are not very useful.

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

{{main|MK 108 (30 mm)|MG 151 (20 mm)|MG 131 (13 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 20 mm MG 151 cannon, nose-mounted (200 rpg) + 2 x 13 mm MG 131 machine guns, nose-mounted (300 rpg = 600 total)
** 1 x 30 mm MK 108 cannon, nose-mounted (65 rpg) + 2 x 13 mm MG 131 machine guns, nose-mounted (300 rpg = 600 total)

The two machine guns are located just forward of the pilot firing out of the nose of the aircraft. The cannon (either 20 mm or 30 mm) is mounted in the propeller shaft and will fire through the propeller hub. The 30 mm cannon can only be installed once the corresponding module at tier III is unlocked. The best 20 mm belt is "Air Targets", the best 13 mm belt is "IAI" or "Stealth" and the best 30 mm belt is the "Universal" or "Stealth".

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

{{main|SC50JA (50 kg)|SC250JA (250 kg)|Wfr.Gr.21|MK 108 (30 mm)|MG 151 (20 mm)}}

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

* Without load
* 4 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (200 kg total)
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb (250 kg total)
* 2 x 30 mm MK 108 cannons, gunpods (wing-mounted) (35 rpg = 70 total)
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, gunpods (wing-mounted) (135 rpg = 270 total)
* 2 x Wfr.Gr.21 rockets

== Usage in battles ==

When stock, you should side climb and enter combat with a superior altitude before engaging. Your enemies will render you ineffective if you don't have the height advantage. However, when it's fully upgraded you might omit side-climbing as the plane should generally get you either at the same altitude or above the opponent. WEP is very effective, so use it to get to an effective altitude in the least amount of time. The engine overheats quite fast, but it also cools down rapidly. Don't be afraid to use WEP even if your temperature is yellow or red.

If you're engaging an enemy while you have an energy advantage, you should do everything in your power to keep or regain this advantage while depleting his. The Bf 109 can achieve this through the use of energy traps like rope-a-dopes, and to disengage when a foe avoids your boom. When neither you or the enemy has an advantage, you should avoid head-ons with the least amount of energy waste. Most of the time the enemy tries to get back on your 6 o clock, which drains his energy much more than yours. This gives you the opportunity to extend, climb, or bait him into an energy trap. Should you, however, face an enemy with superior altitude or speed, attempt to evade his booms on you or force him to overshoot.

When it comes to armament you have the choice of a 20 or 30 mm cannon in the engine, and gun pods of the same calibre. The 20 mm gun has good gun characteristics with decent damage and a good ammo count, while the 30 mm deals devastating damage but has a low ammo capacity and a very slow shell velocity. The gun pods aren't recommended in realistic battles as they dramatically decrease the plane's performance.

In Simulator, the Bf 109 G-6 is quite a friendly fighter that can perform many tasks. It offers great flight performance with its smooth handling, adequate speed, and impressive climb rate and turn rate. Its nose-mounted guns do not require any convergence setting, making it very easy to aim. The nose gently slopes down from the windscreen, offering great over-the-nose visibility. The late G models also have an improved canopy side with less frames, and the solid armour headset is replaced by a transparent bulletproof glass, allowing some rear views which is better over the F models. Said bulletproof glass, however, has a thick metal frame, thus you can only see through the middle at a small portion of the tail. Still this is better than not being able to see anything behind at all. There are bombs of 50kg/250kg to choose from which are beneficial for ground-pounding or base-bombing, although these are not its primary objectives. However, the Bf 109 G does have pretty limited cockpit view obstructed by its numerous canopy frames and handles. The inclusion of two 13mm MG131 creates two large, visible bulges on the nose, just in front of the windscreen, obstructing the pilot's downward view. The plane also behaves poorly during takeoffs due to its torquey engine.

Bring at least 30 minutes of fuel for prolonged patrolling and fighting. The convergence does not really matter, it might be anywhere between 250-600 m. Depending on the task you wish to complete (eg destroy enemy attackers), gunpods can be helpful, if available. Although they slightly worsen the flight performance, that extra burst mass can be the difference between a "Hit" and "Aircraft destroyed". Finally, you can set keys for vertical head movement, as lifting up your head a little helps improving the over-the-nose visibility which helps you to track target.

Taking off in a late Bf 109 is harder than other aircraft, so one should familiarise themselves with the earlier 109s. When taking off, the Bf 109 will shift severely to the left side due to the huge torque, so consider setting keybinds for left and right brakes, as they are more effective at directional control than the rudder while on the ground. As the plane just lifts off the ground it will automatically roll to the left again due to the torque, so you must immediately roll a little right to keep it level, or the left wingtip will strike the ground.

Dogfighting in SB involves everyday RB tactics and manoeuvres such as Immelmann, Split-S, scissor, barrel roll, etc. Note: the Bf 109 handles very sluggishly in the roll axis at low speed, so take this into account if dogfighting at low speed/altitude. You can even pull the elevator fully for maximum agility, but only if you pull gently and gradually will the 109 manoeuvre as you wish. If the stick is pulled harshly and suddenly, the plane will start swaying around and enter a flat spin. The aircraft can quite easily recover from a flat spin by fully deflecting elevators downward and rudder to the opposite side of which the plane is spinning, and wait until it starts a dive and gather some speed to pull up.

* If you want to engage bombers, consider bring gunpods to maximise your damage output. Against late-war heavy bombers like B-17, relying solely on the one central cannon might also work, but that requires more professional evading and longer aiming which is considerably more dangerous, as the bombers you see will be better armed. Choosing between the 30 mm and 20 mm gunpods is up to you. The extra two Mk 108 will significantly boost your one-second burst mass and damage which can be very destructive for experienced pilots doing deflection shots, however the pathetic 35 rounds each gun will not last long in, for example, "destroy enemy bombers" mission where there are ~10 aircraft to down. The pair of MG151 is more balanced in terms of ammo and velocity, although they do not pack as much punch in a short firing window. With the powerful mineshells, 1-3 passes are enough to destroy any aircraft. In fact gunpods can also be helpful in dogfights against fighters, as the slight decrease in performance does not matter a lot in simulator, rather the ability to cripple/destroy the target as soon as you get a chance to is way more important.
* Landing may need practice for some. It is easy at first: decelerate and descent towards the runway, deploy combat, takeoff, landing flaps and gears in such order, fly at ~210 km/h before touchdown. Now note that you must align the plane with the airstrip correctly prior to touchdown and do not yaw/break one side too much when breaking, as the undercarriages are so close together that they cannot support such lateral force, causing the plane to wobble on the tires dangerously or even tilt towards one side, striking a wingtip into the ground. At last, you can break until the plane reaches a full stop and not worry about propeller strike.

====Specific enemies worth noting====

Your worst enemies in the Bf-109 G-6 are the [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfires]] and the [[P-47 (Family)|P-47D/N/M Thunderbolts]]. The Spitfire can out-turn you at almost all altitudes below 4,000 meters. You have to be really careful when engaging a P-47 with an altitude advantage against you. The best thing you can do in that case is to turn away and keep climbing. If the Thunderbolt dives on you, turn into the head-on, fire a few rounds then use your superior roll rate to do a split-S. If a Spitfire engages you DO NOT try to turn with it! If you try, you will have fallen into their trap, your best defence is similar to the tactics employed against the Thunderbolt, split-S and use your roll rate.

====Counter-tactics====

If you're facing this plane, try to deplete its energy and force the plane either low or high. At higher altitudes, the engine performance is poor at best, and at lower ones, the plane loses energy quickly with no fast means to regain it. Avoid head-ons, as the enemy aircraft can potentially carry up to 3 x 30 mm guns.

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

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Extremely good climb rate, even at high altitudes
* Very good energy retention
* Great for stalling out enemies, as the stall control is excellent
* Good low speed manoeuvrability without gunpods: you'll outurn planes like the P-47s and the early P-51s at low speeds
* Can research 2 types of gun pods for greatly increased firepower
* 30mm cannons are extremely effective at bomber-hunting, allied with a great rate of climb, will turn out to be a superb interceptor
* 20mm cannons are wonderful when dogfighting against fighters, due to reasonable damage and high ammo count
* The only Bf-109 G-class able to carry rockets
* The plane is overall very durable, with armour plates covering the only fuel tank
* Very powerful engine when using WEP
* Feels more agile than the [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190s]]
* Very good radiators for being a late war 109, they're responsive and will keep the engine cooler for way longer than the G-2's
* Rather manoeuvrable, in the hands of an experienced pilot may overturn even the mighty Spitfire
* Can feature a pair of Br.21 rockets, enabling it to take out even heavy tanks like the US T29 and Soviet IS-2 in tank realistic battles

'''Cons:'''

* Engine produces less horsepower on 100% throttle than the Bf 109 G-2, while being about 200 kg heavier
* Poor armament: unless using gunpods, head-ons should be avoided at all costs
* Outdated airframe means compression speed and rip speed are lower than most enemies you'll face
* Undergunned and underpowered when stock
* Engine still overheats, although not that often as the F or the G-2 model
* Mounted weaponry/payloads will reduce flight performance significantly
* Low ammo count, unless using gunpods; which sacrifice flight performance
* 30 mm MK 108 cannons have too little ammo (35 rpg) to be an effective weapon in a battle
* Flaps are very sluggish to deploy and they rip at low speed
* 13 mm machine guns don't hit very hard
* For Sim, the numerous canopy frames and razorback greatly limit the all-round view, and huge engine torque causes severe turning when taking off

== History ==


=== In-game description ===
The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a single-seat monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe before and during WWII. It was used as a fighter, interceptor, high-altitude interceptor, fighter-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft.

The Bf 109 G-6 "Gustav" was the most mass-produced variant of the Gustav series. It entered production in the late Autumn of 1942, and was initially designed as a universal platform which could be quickly converted to various roles as needed in field conditions. The G-6 was also equipped with improved engines, either with MW 50 methanol-water injection, or the high-altitude GM-1 nitrous oxide injection. The DB 605AS engine, which used 96-octane fuel, as opposed to 87-octane, could reach over 2,000 HP at 500 m and 1,800 HP at 5,000 m. These variants were designated Bf 109G-6/AS. The armoured seat had a transparent seat back, which significantly improved visibility. A total of 700 /AS aircraft were produced.

In addition to those changes, the G-6 was also the first to house the 30mm MK 108 cannon, which had 60 specially designed incendiary shells. A single hit was usually enough to destroy a single-seat fighter, most bombers needing no more than 4 or 5 hits.

== Media ==


;Skins

* Skin and Camouflages for the [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=germany&vehicleType=aircraft&vehicleClass=fighter&vehicle=bf-109g-6 {{PAGENAME}}] in Warthunder Live.

[[File:Bf 109 G-6 Erica Hartmann.mp4|thumb|"Erica Hartmann" collaboration camouflage|none]]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* North American [[P-51 (Family)|P-51]] Mustang
* Grumman [[F6F (Family)|F6F]] Hellcat
* Focke-Wulf [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
* Fiat [[G.55 serie 1|G.55]]
* Macchi [[C.205N2|C.205]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/316100-messerschmitt-bf-109-g-6/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
* [[wt:en/news/3202--en|[Warrior Profile] Ace of the Month - July - Captain Alexandru Şerbănescu]]

{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
{{Germany fighters}}