War Thunder Wiki - User contributions [en]

AM-1

2020-10-25T13:36:34Z

U85029151: /* Pros and cons */

{{Specs-Card
|code=am_1_mauler
|cockpit=cockpit_am_1_mauler.jpg
}}

== Description ==

[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{Break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American attacker {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"]].

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

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===

The {{PAGENAME}} is a rather cumbersome and heavy aircraft. For pilots new to the aircraft, they will notice even without a payload, the aircraft feels sluggish and can be even more frustrating early on while the aircraft is still in its stock phase. At low speeds, this aircraft is an easy target to prey on. Despite the circumstances, it is decently manoeuvrable for a single-seated attack aircraft allowing for the targeting of ground targets, however, care must be taken when it is necessary to manoeuvre as this aircraft bleeds energy very quickly.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 3,500 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (metres/second)
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (metres)
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
|-
! Stock
| 566 || 547 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.0 || 23.8 || 10.9 || 10.9 || rowspan="2" | 170
|-
! Upgraded
| ___ || 589 || __._ || 22.0 || __._ || 14.2
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 420 || 350 || 300 || ~12 || ~6
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 450 || < 220 || < 410 || > 440
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 4,099 m || 2,600 hp || N/A
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 4,250 m || 1,800 hp || 2,782 hp
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


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

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

== Armaments ==
=== Offensive armament ===

{{main|T31 (20 mm)}}

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

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

=== Suspended armament ===

{{main|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)}}
{{main|HVAR|Tiny Tim|Mk.13/44 (569 mm)}}

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

* Without load
* 14 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (3,500 lb total)
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)
* 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
* 3 x 569 mm Mk.13/44 torpedoes
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb (2,000 lb total)
* 12 x HVAR rockets
* 2 x Tiny Tim rockets
* 2 x Tiny Tim rockets + 12 x HVAR rockets
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 12 x HVAR rockets (1,500 lb total)
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb + 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 12 x HVAR rockets (2,000 lb total)
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb + 2 x Tiny Tim rockets + 12 x HVAR rockets (1,000 lb total)
* 12 x HVAR rockets + 3 x 569 mm Mk.13/44 torpedoes
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 12 x HVAR rockets (2,000 lb total)
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb + 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (4,500 lb total)
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 12 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (5,000 lb total)

== Usage in battles ==


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

Where this plane shines is in a ground-attack role. The cannons, when using ground target belts, can take out lightly armoured targets quite effectively, and the high ammo count is certainly a nice bonus. Additionally, this plane receives an incredible number of ordnance options, from [[HVAR]] and [[Tiny Tim]] rockets to up to 5000 lbs of bombs. In Air Realistic battles these can destroy the most heavily armoured ground targets, and in Ground Realistic these allow the pilot to achieve 7 kills against enemy ground units without landing to reload.

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

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

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

=== Modules ===
{| class="wikitable"
! Tier
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
! Survivability
! colspan="3" | Weaponry
|-
| I
| Fuselage repair
| Radiator
|
|
| M64
| FRC mk.2
|-
| II
|
| Compressor
| Airframe
| Offensive 20 mm
| M65
|
|-
| III
| Wings repair
| Engine
|
|
| Mk.13
| LFRC mk.12
|-
| IV
|
| Engine injection
| Cover
| New 20 mm cannons
| M66
|
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Large and versatile payload
* Decent 20 mm cannons for head-ons or ground attack purposes
* Airbrakes and arresting hook
* 3 torpedoes in ship battles can cause serious damage to several large ships

'''Cons:'''

* No defensive armament
* Sluggish at low speeds
* Poor acceleration
* Bleeds energy quickly if manoeuvring
* Engine Overheats fairly quickly

== History ==


'''Development'''

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

'''Design'''

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

'''Production and Service'''

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

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

== Media ==


;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|Ze0dEvB77fE|'''Best Combo #3''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 3:18 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

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

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

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

{{AirManufacturer Martin}}
{{USA attackers}}

KV-85

2020-10-04T16:17:19Z

U85029151: Changing BR from 5.3 to 5.0.

{{Specs-Card|code=ussr_kv_85}}

== Description ==

[[File:GarageImage_KV-85.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
The '''{{specs|name}}''' is a rank {{specs|rank}} Soviet heavy tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during the closed beta testing for Ground Forces before Update 1.41. A KV-1 with a completely new and more powerful armament in its name, the [[D-5T (85 mm)|85 mm D-5]], allows the Soviet heavy tank tree to have the firepower necessary to combat the other nation's Rank III vehicles.

The KV-85 is a heavy tank, specifically an up-gunned variant of the [[KV-1 (ZiS-5)|KV-1]] and [[KV-1S]] models built with an emphasis of engaging hostile armoured vehicles as well as a breakthrough tank. Operational and visual characteristics of the KV-85 retain the visual and operational similarities to the previous KV-1 line of heavy tanks of which it is upgraded from. Players experienced in operating previous models of the KV or T-34 series of tanks should have little to no difficulty in adjusting to this vehicle. The KV-85 can be distinguished from its KV predecessors by its enlarged and rounded turret and turret ring mount. A quick glance at this vehicle may be mistaken for similar looking tanks such as the [[IS-1]] which shares the same turret and cannon.

Although the armour thickness is the same as the KV-1S, this vehicle is notable for having a more powerful anti-tank gun shared by the [[IS-1]] and [[T-34-85 (D-5T)]]. At 5.0 Battle Rating, however, the tank armour will be of little protection against other hostile vehicles it will face. With just 75 mm front and 60 mm side armour, almost all tanks and the ammunition they fire (a significant number of which have double the penetration value of the thickness of the KV's armour) will penetrate with little to no issue. In comparison to other heavy tanks available in the USSR tree, such as the [[KV-2 (Family)|KV-2]] models and SPG's, the KV-85's handling and combat style is very similar to the IS-1, being quite capable as jack-of-all-trades heavy tank: fast rate of fire, lighter weight compared to similar USSR heavy tanks of its Rank and Battle Rating, satisfactory mobility, fast turret traverse speed, fast targeting, good ammunition penetration and explosive filler. Although despite its limitations, a skilful and experienced player of this vehicle can tip the favour of balance on their side consistently regardless of the combat situation, be it long-range skirmishes or close-quarters combat.

== General info ==
=== Survivability and armour ===

'''Armour type:'''

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

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
|-
| Hull || 75 mm (30°) ''Front plate'' 75 mm (70°) ''Front glacis'' 25 mm (25-70°) ''Joint plate'' 75 mm (26-50°) ''Lower glacis'' || 60 mm || 75 mm (29-73°) || 40 mm
|-
| Turret || 100 mm (9-78°) ''Turret front'' 100 mm (4-58°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 100 mm (8-20°) || 100 mm (12-34°) || 30 mm
|-
! Armour !! Sides !! Roof
|-
| Cupola || 82 mm || 35 mm
|-
|}
'''Notes:'''

* Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick.
* A 45 mm thick piece of armour lays on the boundary of the gun mantlet.

=== Mobility ===


{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 775|rbMinHp= 531|}}

== Armaments ==
=== Main armament ===

{{main|D-5T (85 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="6" | [[D-5T (85 mm)|85 mm D-5T]]
|-
! colspan="3" rowspan="1" style="width:5em" |Capacity
! rowspan="1" | Vertical guidance
! rowspan="1" | Horizontal guidance
! rowspan="1" | Stabilizer
|-
| colspan="3" | 70 || -3°/+23° || ±180° || N/A
|-
! colspan="6" | Turret rotation speed (°/s)
|-
! style="width:4em" |Mode
! style="width:4em" |Stock
! style="width:4em" |Upgraded
! style="width:4em" |Prior + Full crew
! style="width:4em" |Prior + Expert qualif.
! style="width:4em" |Prior + Ace qualif.
|-
| ''Arcade'' || 8.3 || 11.5 ||19.0||21.1||22.4
|-
| ''Realistic'' || 8.3 || 9.8 ||11.9||13.2||14.0
|-
! colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
|-
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Stock
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Prior + Full crew
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Prior + Expert qualif.
! colspan="1" style="width:4em" |Prior + Ace qualif.
|-
| 9.6 ||8.5||7.9||7.4
|-
|}

===== 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
|-
| BR-365K || APHE || 148 || 143 || 126 || 106 || 90 || 77
|-
| BR-365A || APHEBC || 135 || 133 || 125 || 115 || 106 || 97
|-
| O-365K || HE || 10 || 10 || 10 || 10 || 10 || 10
|-
|}
{| 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%
|-
| BR-365K || APHE || 792 || 9.2 || 1.2 || 14 || 73.92 || 47° || 60° || 65°
|-
| BR-365A || APHEBC || 792 || 9.2 || 1.2 || 14 || 164 || 48° || 63° || 71°
|-
| O-365K || HE || 793 || 9.54 || 0.1 || 0.3 || 660 || 79° || 80° || 81°
|-
|}

===== [[Ammo racks|Ammo racks]] =====
[[File:Ammoracks KV-85.png|right|thumbnail|x250px|[[Ammo racks|Ammo racks]] of the KV-85.]]
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! class="wikitable unsortable" |Full ammo
! class="wikitable unsortable" |1st rack empty
! class="wikitable unsortable" |2nd rack empty
! class="wikitable unsortable" |3rd rack empty
! class="wikitable unsortable" |4th rack empty
! class="wikitable unsortable" |5th rack empty
! class="wikitable unsortable" |6th rack empty
! class="wikitable unsortable" |Visual discrepancy
|-
|| '''70''' || 67 ''(+3)'' || 63 ''(+7)'' || 51 ''(+19)'' || 41 ''(+29)'' || 25 ''(+45)'' || 1 ''(+69)'' || style="text-align:left" | yes
|-
|}

Turret empty: 51 (+19)

=== Machine guns ===

{{main|DT (7.62 mm)}}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | [[DT (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm DT]]
|-
! colspan="7" | ''Coaxial mount''
|-
! colspan="4" rowspan="1" style="width:5em" |Capacity (Belt capacity)
! rowspan="1" | Fire rate (shots/minute)
! rowspan="1" | Vertical guidance
! rowspan="1" | Horizontal guidance
|-
| colspan="4" | 1,890 (63) || 600 || N/A || N/A
|-
|}

== Usage in battles ==

At its Rank and Battle Rating, the KV-85's armour is no longer up to par against newer and more powerful weapon systems of opposition vehicles it will face. Although unlike the [[IS-1]] successor of which is unable to protect itself by angling due to the rounded turret mount causing a vulnerability, the KV-85 has less of this issue as the entire front portion of the front and lower-plate is designed to be straight and rectangular and allowing it to deflect or ricochet some shots when angled optimally. The tactical usage and efficiency sit somewhere between the IS-1 and the [[T-34-85 (D-5T)]]; it is almost as armoured to par as the IS-1 in some aspects but is not as fast as the T-34-85 whilst still retaining the same armaments. Although of an older design, the KV-85 makes a crude, yet still effective jack-of-all-trades vehicle sufficient in holding its own on the battlefield in many situations by experienced users.

Another significant note of this vehicle is its considerably fast reverse rate, the second highest of its Rank and Battle-Rating for the nation's heavy tank line, topping at 14 km/h behind the [[IS-1]]'s 17 km/h. Players can use this advantage to cross from cover to cover whilst engaging hostile targets or to make a tactical retreat. During situations where close-quarters engagement is expected, an unorthodox strategy can be utilized when the operator of the KV tank re-positions the vehicle 180 degrees and drive in reverse towards the enemy. By driving in reverse with the rear facing the opposition, the engine blocks make a crude yet somewhat effective shield and protecting the more delicate crew. Many opponents the KV-85 will face will fire APHE as its main ammunition armament; the engine blocks and fuel tanks act as spaced-armour and causing APHE to detonate prematurely prior to reaching the crew compartment. In situations where the operator want's the best chance of victory in a 'round-the-corner' head on engagement, the surviving crew after a first-shot volley may be given the opportunity for a retaliatory strike and second-volley after being hit. This tactic should only be utilized in a case-by-case situation basis where it is an absolute necessity, as the engine compartment will almost certainly catch fire when struck. This is of little consequence if the user has Fire Extinguisher equipped. Be aware that this tactic is not suitable against opponents who fire solid-shot armour piercing shells such as certain British and American vehicles, as these will go straight through the rear, into the crew compartment and out the other side without stopping.

Although equally capable and effective in operating alone, the KV-85 also operates efficiently with other friendly vehicles. Of note are vehicles that act as bullet magnets such as the [[Churchill Mk VII|Churchill Mk.VII]] with its heavy armour and large target to act as a distraction or to soak up shots, whilst the user of the KV-85 or other friendly vehicles may trail behind it and fire off shots 'over-the-shoulder' to dispatch more powerful opponents of which the guns of the Churchill may have difficulty dealing damage against.

Japanese tanks faced by the KV-85 are of little concern as their armour protection is largely inferior, as well as being relatively rare to tanks of other nations. Vehicles of American and British of the same Rank and Battle Rating are also less of a concern as their weapons and armour (excluding the Churchill Mk VII) are also generally inferior to some extent. When situation persists, hostile vehicles of German and Soviet origins should be prioritized first. Tiger tanks should be targeted 'between-the-eyes' of the front plate between the MG and driver's viewport, or to the left or right side of the same front plate to set off ammunition racks. All Panzers models IV and below are of little concern - a single shot anywhere and everywhere will almost always guarantee to penetrate and destroy them. The [[Panther D|Panther]] of which it may occasionally face will be invulnerable in its sloped front plate. Target instead of the turret, or flank to the side and destroy with a single APHE shot.

=== Modules ===
{| class="wikitable"
! Tier
! colspan="2" | Mobility
! Protection
! colspan="2" | Firepower
|-
| I
| Tracks
|
| Parts
| Horizontal Drive
| BR-365A
|-
| II
| Suspension
| Brake System
| FPE
| Adjustment of Fire
|
|-
| III
| Filters
|
| Crew Replenishment
| Elevation Mechanism
|
|-
| IV
| Transmission
| Engine
|
|
|
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===

'''Pros:'''

* Good firepower with the 85 mm gun
* Fast targeting and tracking
* High rate of fire
* Rectangular armour shape allows for good angling effectiveness
* Good mobility, identical to KV-1(L-11)
* Significantly fast reverse speed
* Player skill compatibility between older and newer T-34, KV and IS models

'''Cons:'''

* Insufficient flat armour that would be penetrated if not angled
* Poor gun depression of -3°
* Large gun turret silhouette and profile
* Max speed relatively slow and inferior compared to contemporary tanks
* Limited crew (4 maximum)
* Vehicle center hull is a mass of ammunition, fuel, and crew that can all be damaged with a shot to the area

== History ==

===Pretext===
At its introduction, the [[KV-1 (ZiS-5)|KV-1 Heavy Tank]] in Soviet service was one of the most heavily armoured tanks in service in the world, it also has an outstanding firepower advantage over its contemporaries with the 76.2 mm gun. But as the war progressed, deficiencies in the KV designs were made to light; it was slow, not ergonomic for the crew, and was starting to become a setback due to the Germans being equipped with newer anti-tank guns. Plus, in a technical term, the [[T-34 (1941)|T-34 medium tank]] could do basically everything the KV-1 could do (had similar armour ratings and same gun), but was more mobile and cheaper to produce.

===Development===
It was clear that if the KV tanks wanted to stay in service, it needed to be upgraded. First was the ''KV-1 Model 1942'', which featured more armour, but still lacked mobility and had the same 76.2 mm gun. The first radical response to the tank design was the lighter '''KV-1S''', which featured lighter armour, a smaller turret, a commander cupola, and a better transmission system. All this helped the KV-1 increase in mobility and speed, but it brought the question on why the tank was still being produced still as now it really had the same specifications as the T-34, but the T-34 was still a lot cheaper to produce than the KV tank. If this viewpoint didn't cause the Soviet heavy program to gradually die, then it was the appearance of the [[Panther D|Panther]] tanks that convinced the Soviet command that their tanks need to have more armour and better guns.

In order to help introduce a better gun into the system quickly while better tanks were being developed, the 85 mm D-5T cannon commonly seen on the [[SU-85]] at the time was attached to the KV-1S tank on a new turret from the developing [[IS-1|IS-85]] tanks. The new model, called '''KV-85''', helped even the balance in tank firepower by being able to engage the [[Tiger H1|Tiger I]] from a long distance. However, it was only a stopgap design and not many were produced due to the same 85 mm cannon equipping the standard T-34s to make the [[T-34-85]], making the KV-85's firepower advantage a moot point. Plus, the development of the [[IS-2]], featuring more armour and mobility caused the KV tanks to finally be declared obsolete. The KV-85 was produced from September 1943 to December 1943, with only 148 tanks produced.

===Replacement===
The KV tank series was succeeded by the Iosef Stalin heavy tanks, first with the IS-1, which featured an 85 mm cannon and effectively replacing the KV-85, then the IS-2 with its 122 mm gun that can kill most of the later German tanks easily.

=== In-game description ===
"This tank was created based on the KV-1S due to delays in the IS-1's development. It was equipped with the turret developed for the IS-1 with an enlarged traverse circle, strengthened armour and an 85 mm cannon. The new vehicle was the next step on the path to creating a heavy tank significantly different from a medium tank not only in its armour, but in its firepower as well. The new cannon required a new ammo rack, and the ammunition complement had to be reduced to 70 shells. The tank's main armament was an 85 mm D-5T-85 cannon with a rate of fire of up to 8 shots per minute. Standard ammunition for the 85 mm Mod. 1939 air defence gun was used in the cannon. Instead of a frontal machine gun, a fixed bow machine gun was installed in a socket mount to the right of the driver, which he used to lay down unaimed fire. This allowed the gunner/radio officer to be removed from the crew. Part of the ammunition complement and an additional fuel tank were installed in his place.

Owing to the fact that the tank was an intermediate model, it was manufactured for a relatively short time. In total, 130 of them were made.
KV-85 tanks served in guards assault tank regiments. The first regiment of these new tanks reached the front as early as the first days of September 1943 during battles to liberate Left-bank Ukraine. Alongside other vehicles, the heavy tank was tasked with breaking through enemy positions and fighting armoured vehicles. When used correctly, it could oppose the newest German heavy tanks, which previously technically surpassed it. The tank had insufficient hull armour for the end of 1943, providing adequate defence only against German guns below with a calibre below 75 mm.
The KV-85 was an important intermediate link between pre-war heavy tank designs and the powerful IS tanks built to replace them."

== Media ==


;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|PUw2CQ8e0lE|'''Best Combo #1''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 2:47 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== Read 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.''

''ETC.''

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

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

{{USSR heavy tanks}}

P-63C-5

2020-08-16T17:37:30Z

U85029151: Corrections on Radiator Control in MEC

{{Specs-Card
|code=p-63c-5
|cockpit=cockpit_p-63c-5.jpg
}}
{{About
| about = American fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other vehicles
| link = P-63 (Family)
}}

== Description ==


[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test in Update 1.27.

== General info ==
=== Flight Performance ===
''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"
|-
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 4,572 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
|640||626|| {{Specs|ceiling}} ||24.2||24.5||16.7||18.8||289
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 4,572 m)
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
|708||663|| {{Specs|ceiling}} ||22.3||23.0||32.9||21.7||289
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! +
! -
|-
| {{Specs|разрушение|конструкции}} || {{Specs|разрушение|шасси}} ||480|| ~15 || ~7
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
|-
! Ailerons (km/h)
! Rudder (km/h)
! Elevators (km/h)
! Radiator (km/h)
|-
| < 430 || < 430 || < 419 || > 250
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 7,000 m || 1,100 hp || 1,705 hp
|-

|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


* 15.87 mm Steel - Plates x 2, lower fore cockpit
* 19.05 mm Steel - Plate, upper fore cockpit
* 12.7 mm Steel - Plate behind pilot's seat
* 12.7 mm Steel - Plate protecting oil cooling system
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Windscreen

== Armaments ==
=== Offensive armament ===

{{main|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|M10 (37 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 37 mm M10 cannon, nose-mounted (58 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, nose-mounted (250 rpg = 500 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, wing-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)

=== Suspended armament ===

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

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be configured with the following ordinance:

* Without load
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)

== Usage in battles ==


This aircraft is an improved version of the previous Kingcobra carrying the same armament and main gun. The aircraft is still a high altitude interceptor/ Energy fighter, with its turn radius slightly better than before. The quick dive speed and high energy retention allow the player, with the correct altitude, to engage opponents below numerous times using the high yo-yo method. This aircraft should not be used for ground attack due to its average ammo count.

The 37mm M10 cannon is ridiculously powerful. Aim carefully when firing, and do not fire too quickly, lest your gun jam and you lose your main weapon. A single shot to a wing or fuselage of an enemy plane will be all that it takes to bring it down.

The M2 Brownings are similar to the guns on the Bf-109- spotters. Use them to judge the range for your cannon shot. They are almost useless (except for those lucky pilot snipes) offensively.

Unfortunately, the C-5 is relatively superior to its predecessors. It has far more cannon ammo and a slightly lower climb rate than the A-10. However, this is relatively trivial as both planes are generally evenly matched. Keep this in mind, though, when selecting your load out of planes.

It is recommended to use the P-63 against large fighters and bombers. It is far easier to hit a bomber with the cannon then a small fighter with it.

Head-on attacks are not advisable- the large cannon combined with the relatively weak M2s make for poor head on accuracy. Only engage in head-ons if you are absolutely confident in your aim.

Boom & Zoom is also an effective tactic with this plane. Its large cannon makes getting shots while diving relatively easy, and its high climb rate and energy retention can get it to safety.

Bomber hunting is also extremely effective with the P-63, a large bomber is far easier to hit with a massive cannon. A single shot can take off a bomber's wing. However, don't spam the cannon. Keep the delay between shots at a 1-1.5 second. Firing too quickly will result in a jam, which makes your plane almost useless offensively.

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

===Modules===
Initially, the aircraft's flat speed is not fast enough to outrun Fw 190 A and F 8s that it may face, so it's recommended to upgrade engine performance first. Armament, although it won't improve greatly, is the next recommendation considering how underwhelming it may be on some occasions- do this by researching ammo belts, then improvements to the cannon.
{| class="wikitable"
! colspan="1" | Tier
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
! colspan="1" | Survivability
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
|-
| I
| Fuselage repair
| Radiator
|
| Offensive 12 mm
|
|-
| II
|
| Compressor
| Airframe
| New 12 mm MGs
| FMBC mk.1
|-
| III
| Wings repair
| Engine
|
| Offensive 37 mm
|
|-
| IV
|
| Engine injection
| Cover
| New 37 mm cannons
|
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Excellent dive speed
* Excellent energy retention
* Better-than-average climb rate
* Good flat out speed
* Good cannon damage

'''Cons:'''

* Average turn time
* Worse-than-average performance at low speeds
* Ineffective armament against higher rank aircraft
* Prone to engine damage when being chased
* Default paint scheme makes the aircraft visible at a longer distance
* Rudder locks at high speed making it hard to get guns on target in Boom & Zoom

== 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></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. 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).''

=== In-game description ===
Bell P-63C-1/C-5 Kingcobra Army Fighter

The most advanced production model of the P-63. The P-63C had a more powerful engine, the Allison V-1710-117 (1500 hp), as well as a short-term water injection afterburner capable of boosting the engine to 1800 hp. The airplane's aerodynamics were changed: an additional fin was added under the fuselage. Other external differences included a carburetor intake and new truncated wings. The area of the stabilizers, however, was increased. Measures taken to eliminate the danger of the plane falling into a flat spin were not entirely effective; however, the plane did spin less dangerously than the P-39 Airacobra, without jerking and twisting the controls around. The plane's armament remained the same as on the A-9 and the A-10.

The P-63C fighter was produced in two major series. The C-1 series featured a multipurpose ventral pylon under the plane, similar to that of the A-1 and A-5 series, which could carry an extra fuel tank or a bomb. 215 of these airplanes were built.

The C-5 featured two additional pylons under the wings, similar to those of the A-6. So, the P-63C-5 could carry three 500-lb (227-kg) bombs or three extra 75-gallon (284-liter) fuel tanks, or a combination of the two.

The number of pylons was the only difference between the two series. The P-63C-5 became the largest series in the Kingcobra's production. By May of 1945, 1,012 planes had been constructed.

The Red Army Air Force's opinion of the P-63 was positive. Pilots noted the plane's high speed, good maneuverability, and powerful armament. The convenient three-wheeled chassis, coupled with efficient brakes, provided good conditions for taxiing, takeoff, and landing, and the plane's handling on the ground was excellent.

In World War II, the P-63 would only see combat in the USSR. In the short military campaign in the Far East in August 1945, the Japanese air force provided no serious resistance, so evaluating the Kingcobra's combat performance in air-to-air combat was not possible.

In all, 3,303 P-63 aircraft were produced, including all modifications. After the war, they remained in service with the Soviet Air Force until 1952-1953. In the U.S., all of the planes were officially retired in 1946.

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

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

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''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 aircraft;''
* ''other literature.''

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

P-63A-10

2020-08-16T17:35:03Z

U85029151: Clarification on Radiator Controls

{{Specs-Card
|code=p-63a-10
|cockpit=cockpit_p-63a-10.jpg
}}
{{About
| about = American fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = P-63 (Family)
}}

== Description ==


[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American fighter {{Battle-rating}}. This fighter has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

This later mark of the A-model Kingcobra is quite similar to the earlier [[P-63A-5]]. Aside from the striking golden camouflage the airframe itself only has minor detail differences. Internally, it has modified armament and extra engine power. The best performing Kingcobra at low altitudes, the A-10 is a versatile fighter with good speed, climb, armament, and maneuverability. It requires some finesse to fly but can give feared opponents like the [[Bf 109 F-4]] a serious run for their money.

Kingcobra fans can try the succeeding [[P-63C-5]], a largely similar aircraft tuned for better performance at medium to high altitudes.

== General info ==
=== Flight Performance ===


The P-63A-10 has fairly good all-round characteristics. As with most US aircraft, it handles well at high speeds. The elevator and roll do not compress much even past 600 km/h IAS, though the rudder does lose effectiveness past that point. Low speed maneuverability is poor and the turning performance becomes sluggish under around 300 km/h IAS. Unique for a US fighter is the good climb rate, comparable to the German [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]] series. It matches the Bf 109 F-4 in climb up to 2000 meters and starts to fall behind slightly at 3000 meters. Past that, the P-63's performance decreases and the difference in climb rate becomes more pronounced, though it is still quite decent at 4000-5000 meters and can outclimb [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]s and most Soviet fighters at these altitudes. Try not to go any higher than that.

Kingcobras are known for their excellent roll rates, good vertical/horizontal energy retention, and poor maneuvering energy retention. The A-10's low-altitude speed and climb are excellent. Its top speed at sea level is about 595 km/h, matching the [[P-51D-5]] Mustang. It takes some time to reach this speed in level flight. Having some altitude and entering a shallow dive speeds up the process.

The A-10 shares the same Allison V-1710-93 engine with the A-5 but has a higher boost pressure. It has about 150 less horsepower on normal settings and about 300 more when using WEP. The engine tends to run hot when using WEP as a result and it's important to manage the temperature. Aggressive throttle control can over-rev the engine.

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,650 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 628 || 614 || 12,200 || 24.1 || 24.5 || 17.1 || 19.2 || 289
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,650 m)
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 701 || 650 || 12,200 || 22.5 || 23.0 || 30.0 || 22.2 || 289
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! +
! -
|-
| 901 || 300 || 480 || ~15 || ~7
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
|-
! Ailerons (km/h)
! Rudder (km/h)
! Elevators (km/h)
! Radiator (km/h)
|-
| < 430 || < 430 || < 419 || > 250
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 7,000 m || 1,100 hp || 1,705 hp
|-

|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


* 15.87 mm Steel - Plates x 2, lower fore cockpit
* 19.05 mm Steel - Plate, upper fore cockpit
* 12.7 mm Steel - Plate behind pilot's seat
* 12.7 mm Steel - Plate protecting oil cooling system
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Windscreen

The Kingcobra provides quite a lot of protection for its pilot in both the front and back. Pilot snipes are a relatively rare occurrence as a result. However the rear placement of the engine poses some issues; it can block some fire from the rear, but this means that pursuing fighters can potentially damage or even knock out the engine. Another issue with the design is that the fuselage has essentially no room for fuel tanks, and they are placed in the outboard section of the wings as a result. The fuel tanks, though self-sealing, can be ignited by stray fire and will often spell doom for the Kingcobra. The durability is otherwise pretty good. Given some distance and mild evasive maneuvers, incoming fire will often bounce off with little damage.

The US P-63A-10 and P-63C-5 are known for their garish paint schemes. This can be a liability in Ground RB or Simulator battles since it's easier for enemies to spot than the typical brown or blue camouflages of US aircraft. If looking like a ripe banana is a problem, the P-63A-10 has an unlockable silver camouflage similar to the [[P-63C-5 (France)|French P-63C-5]].

== Armaments ==
=== Offensive armament ===

{{main|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|M10 (37 mm)}}

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

* 1 x 37 mm M10 cannon, nose-mounted (58 rpg)
* 2 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, nose-mounted (250 rpg = 500 total)
* 2 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, wing-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)

The P-63A-10 replaces the A-5's M4 cannon, originally inherited from the [[P-39 (Family)|P-39 Airacobra]], with a new M10 cannon. The M10 uses a disintegrating link feed system and has better performance: faster rate of fire, lower chance of jamming, and almost twice the ammunition. Unfortunately it still has atrocious accuracy when stock, so don't use it outside of point-blank range until the New 37 mm Cannon upgrade is researched. It takes a lot of practice to aim and is best used within 500 meters since it has a tendency to spark upon glancing hits. The good news is that a successful hit will usually obliterate any single-engined aircraft. For larger aircraft hits to the tail or wings can be instantly fatal. The Default belt works well since it consists entirely of HE rounds. The Ground Targets belt with 50% AP-T content may seem like a good choice for attacking tanks, but in practice the AP-T rounds struggle to penetrate armored targets for some reason. The only reason to use this belt is its kinetic effects on aircraft. While the AP-T rounds do not have explosive filler they will rip through components and ignite fuel tanks with satisfying results. This may be slightly more reliable than the HE rounds if you hit the fuselage of your target, so the choice between Default and Ground Targets is up to personal preference.

The four M2 Browning machine guns are still equipped with mid-war belts. For anti-aircraft purposes the Universal belt is the best due to the high content of M8 AP-I rounds. They are good at starting fires and will dispatch fragile opponents like Yaks and Bf 109s with ease. Unfortunately they don't have much burst mass and are less effective against sturdy targets than the typical US 6-gun complement; this is noticeable when fighting Fw 190s, for example. Another downside specific to the A-10 and C-5 Kingcobras is that their machine guns have less ammunition than the A-5. The wing guns lost 50 rounds per gun to make room for the new wing hardpoints and the nose guns lost 20 rounds because of the new cannon installation. Mind your aim and fire in long bursts only if you're sure that they will hit. The cannon can finish off twin-engined fighters and bombers.

The nose guns are tightly clustered and the two wing-mounted M2 Brownings are mounted midway on the wings. This makes convergence an issue. A common recommendation is to use 400-500 meters convergence to concentrate the machine gun fire. Consider turning on vertical targeting if using a lower convergence setting, this makes leading the cannon easier by compensating for its poor muzzle velocity. Vertical targeting will make attacking ground vehicles more awkward so it has more drawbacks in Ground RB.

=== Suspended armament ===

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

The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be configured with the following ordinance:

* Without load
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)

The A-5 only had a single hardpoint under the fuselage for a 500 lb bomb. The A-10 has new wing hardpoints and can carry triple the bomb load, a welcome improvement. The wing bombs will drop as a pair first and the second drop will release the fuselage bomb. The US 500 lb bomb is not particularly powerful but can still do good work if delivered with reasonable accuracy. The first drop is more forgiving since the two bombs have a decent combined blast radius. The second drop is more demanding but the centreline position allows you to deliver it precisely; it is very satisfying to land it next to or on top of an enemy tank.

== Usage in battles ==


'''Air RB'''

The P-63A-10 has good all-round characteristics and lends itself to several possible strategies. Examine what nations are present on the enemy team; Axis teams usually have Bf 109s, C.205s, J2Ms, and similar fighters that climb well and typically attack from above, while Soviet teams tend to stay at low to medium altitudes and can be comfortably outclimbed. If you want to work with an altitude advantage against Axis teams, try sideclimbing once you reach 3000-4000 meters, but remember that high altitude operations are better left to Thunderbolts, Lightnings, and Mustangs.

Going after bombers is a valid option provided that they are not at extreme altitudes; attack from underneath, directly above, or the side and try not to sit on their tails. Open up with the machine guns early on, and once the distance is short enough for consistent hits to be scored, start using the cannon in short bursts. Ideally the machine guns can knock out defensive gunners and start fires while the cannon can rip off tails or wings. It is very satisfying to dismember a bomber with a well-placed cannon shot. The rear-mounted engine protects the P-63 from engine knockouts but it pays not to sit still as even small calibre machine guns can ignite the wing fuel tanks with fatal results.

The P-63 excels at diving attacks on attackers and fighters due to its mild control compression, durable wings, and good energy retention. If the target evades, simply zoom climb back up or extend away, then look for an opening to engage again. This tactic works well if you catch someone in the middle of a climb since they will be continuously forced down. Just be careful against Soviet fighters since they perform optimally at low altitude.

When committing to a dogfight, keep hard turns at high speed to a minimum. Although the P-63 is surprisingly nimble in these conditions, such manoeuvres tend to bleed its energy and put a lot of stress on the pilot. It is safer to keep some distance from your opponent and turn more gently instead of aggressively following them; only do that if you are certain that you can secure the kill. This does not mean that you should avoid turning engagements at all since that would be a waste of the P-63's good maneuverability for a US fighter. Just avoid dumping your speed all at once and getting sucked into a difficult low-speed engagement. The P-63 relies on being able to enter engagements with an energy advantage and using that to win, it's not great at regaining energy in the middle of a fight. If the P-63's speed drop below 300 km/h during turnfights or loops, use combat flaps to improve the turn rate in the meantime and try to regain speed as quickly as possible.

With WEP, the P-63A-10 has a significantly better power-to-weight ratio than the somewhat underpowered A-5. This means that you can engage in turnfights, spiral climbs, and stall climbs more comfortably. The low speed handling isn't any better so try to avoid those if you can.

Evasive manoeuvres and defensive flying are important skills to master in the P-63. If the pursuer has a lower top speed than the P-63 and does not have ludicrously powerful cannons, extend away in a shallow dive and make slight dodges upwards and downwards to easily dodge incoming fire. With the A-10 you can escape by diving to sea level, almost no contemporary fighters can keep up if you hold onto your speed. Rolling scissors are effective to force overshoots against opponents with poor roll rates. As a last resort, combining roll, elevator, and rudder results in an unpredictable and rapid spiral while bleeding speed quickly.

The general flow of battle can be unpredictable. If your team has numerous sideclimbing fighters, you can enter battle slightly ahead of them and tie up the enemy, setting them up for friendly boom-and-zoom attacks. Dragging Axis fighters to lower altitudes can work well since they tend to be significantly slower there. Against Soviet aircraft, stick to boom-and-zoom attacks and maintain a safe distance. Their low speed handling and power-to-weight are significantly better and their speeds are comparable. The [[Yak-3]] can send you back to the hangar if you do not watch your speed and altitude and the [[Yak-9U]] exceeds the P-63A-10 in almost all metrics except high-speed handling, roll, and armament.

'''Ground RB'''

The P-63A-10 is a good yet uncommon choice for Ground RB. Many US fighters or attackers like the [[F6F-5|Hellcat]] and [[P-47D-25|Thunderbolt]] can carry heavy ground attack ordinance but are out of their element in the low-altitude environment of Ground RB matches. Their high altitude performance advantages are moot and they struggle to turn or climb effectively, making it easier for Bf 109s, C.205s, and even Zeroes to mop them up. The P-63A-10 has excellent performance at low altitudes and is right at home in the skies above tank battles.

If there are no enemy fighters, take the bomb payload. After spawning in, gain some altitude and look for targets to bomb. When the bombs have been expended, extend away and gain some altitude while getting your bearings. If enemy aircraft are present, climb some more and engage once you have an energy advantage. If the skies are clear you can fly around the map and strafe targets with the machine guns. Returning to base to reload the bombs is an option if the battle is not moving very quickly. If you think enemy aircraft will be inbound soon, climb to get the drop on them when they spawn in.

The P-63A-10 cannot cope with enemy fighters when burdened with its full bombload. There is unfortunately no option to take only the centerline bomb, so think carefully before spawning in. If it turns out that your team does not have control of the air, you can ditch the ordinance and go after fighters, then return to the airfield once it's safe to reload the bombs. A more risky option is deliver the bombs and make a beeline towards your airfield using your sea level speed. Once you are covered by friendly airfield AA, you can climb and reset the engagement on your terms.

A well-flown P-63A-10 can destroy and harass both ground and air targets. As long as you stay aware of your surroundings, few opponents will give you trouble and your team will appreciate the close air support and clear skies.

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

===Modules===
{| class="wikitable"
! colspan="1" | Tier
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
! colspan="1" | Survivability
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
|-
| I
| Fuselage Repair
| Radiator
|
| Offensive 12 mm
|
|-
| II
|
| Compressor
| Airframe
| New 12 mm MGs
| FMBC mk.1
|-
| III
| Wings Repair
| Engine
|
| Offensive 37 mm
|
|-
| IV
|
| Engine Injection
| Cover
| New 37 mm Cannons
|
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good horizontal speed and acceleration
* Excellent dive speed
* Excellent performance at high speed, relatively minor compression
* Good rate of climb
* Good turn radius
* Good energy retention if maneuvering is kept to a minimum
* 37 mm cannon can chew bombers easily
* No fuel tank in the fuselage
* Can carry an impressive 1500 lbs worth of bombs if the need arises
* Almost double the amount of 37 mm shells compared to previous Bell aircraft

'''Cons:'''

* Poor turn time at lower speeds
* Poor maneuvering energy retention, bleeds speed in hard turns
* Large difference in trajectory between 37 mm and 12.7 mm, limiting the opportunities at which the firepower of both can be utilized
* 37 mm cannon is not effective against tanks
* Limited ammunition for the machine guns
* Wings are littered with fuel tanks and easily set ablaze
* Default paint scheme makes the aircraft visible at a longer distance

== History ==


=== In-game description ===
Bell P-63A-6/A-7/A-8/A-9/A-10 Kingcobra Army Fighter

The A-6 series introduced two additional multipurpose pylons under the wings, which could hold two 500-lb (227-kg) bombs or two additional fuel tanks with a capacity of 75 gallons (284 liters). To provide the extra space needed, the Colt-Browning M2.5 12.7mm machine guns in the wings had their ammunition reduced from 250 to 200 rounds per gun. To reduce the risk of the plane going into a flat spin, the shape of the elevator fin was changed, and its area was reduced. A total of 130 A-6 aircraft were built.

During operation, the A-1, A-5, and A-6 aircraft exhibited a strain in the skin of their wings, so the A-7 series (150 planes) featured a thicker lining and reinforced structure. The fighter also had difficulty when exiting a dive or performing vertical maneuvers. This was partially countered by installing a counterbalance in the elevator control system and by increasing the area of the elevator fin. The problem was completely eliminated only by the time modification C was released.

The A-8 series (200 aircraft) had the Allison V-1710 engine, equipped with a water-methanol mixture direct-injection afterburner which could be used to briefly increase engine power to 1800 hp. Also, the airplane was fitted with an improved propeller (the Aeroproducts A6425-D3), an N-6 camera was installed, and the aircraft's armor was upgraded to 85.5 kilograms.

The A-9 series (445 aircraft) had its armament strengthened at the request of the Red Army Air Force. A Colt-Browning M10 37mm cannon was installed. The new gun featured improved ballistics and 58 more rounds of ammunition per gun. To make space for this change, the ammunition for the fuselage guns was reduced to 250 rounds each. In addition, 5 kg of armor were added when the pilot's seat was upgraded.

The A-10 series (730 aircraft) received new N-9 sights. The mass of the aircraft's armor had reached 121 kg, and the aircraft could carry 6 unguided rockets.

As the improved P-63A was being delivered to the Soviet Union, priority shifted to supplying the eastern armies preparing for military action against Japan. During the campaign of August 1945 in the Far East, the P-63 was used to escort bombers and reconnaissance aircraft as well as to cover troops from the air and attack Japanese encampments.

From October 1943 to December 1944, Bell Aircraft produced a total of 1,725 P-63A fighter aircraft, after which the design was replaced by the C modification.

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

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

* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''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 aircraft;''
* ''other literature.''

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

F-82E

2020-08-15T20:35:01Z

U85029151: I corrected the MEC section where it stated that you couldn't control the Prop Pitch and the Water Radiator

{{Specs-Card
|code=f-82e
|cockpit=cockpit_f-82e.jpg
}}
{{About
| about = American twin-engine fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other versions
| link = P-51 (Family)
}}

== Description ==


[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American twin-engine fighter {{Battle-rating}}. This fighter was introduced in [[Update 1.39]].

Perhaps the most distinctive feature about the F-82E "Twin Mustang" is that it literally looks like two P-51 conjoined together into a plane.

This means the F-82E Twin Mustang has nearly two of everything, two fuselages, two engines, two tails, and two pilots. The last of which makes the Twin Mustang more survivable than most other aircraft as each can work independently if the other is incapacitated.

Built with the intent of long-range escort for the B-29 Superfortress bombers, the fuel capacity in the Twin Mustang is also much higher than its contemporaries.

Unlike the preceding American planes, the Twin Mustang no longer features wing-mounted armament but instead are now centre-mounted between the fuselages, so gun convergence is no longer a big issue.

The F-82E works best as a high-altitude bomber-killer or escort plane. While its respectable payload of bombs, machine guns, and rockets make it an effective ground attacker, it is very vulnerable in that role unless the enemy's fighters have all been neutralized.

The F-82E's main assets are its destructive firepower (with the gun pod) combined with massive ammo count, its good climbing speed and its amazing escape speed. Using the tracer bullets and shooting continuously it is possible to adjust aim effectively from more than 1.5 km away. In head-ons, this means your opponent will usually be destroyed or crippled well before he gets his own target indicator. With bombers, it means one serious burst from 0.7-1.0 km will deliver a critical, and a full-second burst from less than 0.7 km should cut any bomber into several pieces.

== General info ==
=== Flight performance ===
''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"
|-
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 6,126 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 713 || 696 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 28.3 || 28.7 || 15.3 || 15.3 || 450
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 6,126 m)
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 770 || 742 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 25.8 || 27.0 || 26.4 || 18.7 || 450
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! +
! -
|-
| 812 || 450 || 520 || ~8 || ~8
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
|-
! Ailerons (km/h)
! Rudder (km/h)
! Elevators (km/h)
! Radiator (km/h)
|-
| < 450 || < 400 || < 500 || > 240
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 5,000 m || 3,200 hp || 4,499 hp
|-

|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Windshield
* 6.35 mm Steel - Fore cockpit armour plate, pilot and co-pilot
* 8 mm Steel - Armor plate, pilot and co-pilot's seats
* 11 mm Steel - Armor plate headrests, pilot and co-pilot
* 19.05mm Steel - Engine protective plate

== Armaments ==
=== Offensive armament ===

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

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

* 6 x 12.7 mm Browning M3 machine guns, center-mounted (400 rpg = 2,400 total)

=== Suspended armament ===

{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)|HVAR|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 x 1000 lbs AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
* 2 x 2000 lbs AN-M66A2 bombs (4,000 lb total)
* 10 x 127 mm HVAR rockets
* 8 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, center-mounted (400 rpg = 3,200 total)

== Usage in battles ==

Start play by climbing above 5,000 m while always maintaining a speed above 290 kph. If this brings you in range of enemy fighters before you have achieved a height advantage simply turn away and let them seek other targets. Once you have achieved 5,000 m altitude with airspeed above 300 kph you are virtually invulnerable since you will always have the option of running away with or without diving. You can seek and destroy bombers. Any fighter foolish enough to go after you should be dealt with head-on starting from more than 1.2 km away to ensure time to adjust and kill with your machine guns. If this is not an option or if you are being engaged by a pair of fighters, or if your initial pass fails to kill, keep running. Very few planes have the ability to follow you and your frame is sturdy enough to withstand the occasional long-distance hit.

As a rule, never let your airspeed drop below 300 kph; do not go near ground level if there is more than one enemy fighter in the vicinity unless your airspeed is above 500 kph, and never engage in furballs.

When used as a heavy fighter, keep in mind the brutally low handling capability of the F-82. Always avoid "furballs" and stay above your opponents. The climb rate makes the F-82 a capable bomber-killer. As a bomber killer, the aiming problems that many pilots face against smaller, more agile fighters evaporate. It is recommended to utilize the 8 x M2 Gun pod, due to the extremely high damage output. However, more experienced players may do away with this option, as it does hamper the handling of the craft.

Due to its high speed, it is very dangerous when used in a boom and run strategy (energy retention and a very high top speed in level flight mean it can be literally untouchable for a lot of single-engine fighters). In this case, it's very important to watch one's speed and to throttle back in dives or it can lose its wings due to high speed. For achieving the maximum straight-line speed at sea level, one should have the engine mixture set to 72%.

Remember, do not attempt to engage smaller and nimbler fighters, as most of the times you will overshoot and completely miss due to the poor handling.

Always use the tracer bullets with your six or fourteen 12.7 mm machine guns. Not only are the tracers very effective incendiaries, but they also give you the ability to see exactly where you are shooting up to 2 km away. This is invaluable in destroying bombers from far enough away to avoid their tail gunners, and in achieving incredible accuracy in head-ons well before your enemy gets a target indicator on you.

Boom and Zoom is not an ideal strategy with the F-82. At about 650 kph you will experience extreme control stiffening. The F-82 excels in the destruction of bombers and other aircraft in head-ons.

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

===Modules===
{| class="wikitable"
! colspan="1" | Tier
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
! colspan="1" | Survivability
! colspan="3" | Weaponry
|-
| I
| Fuselage Repair
| Radiator
|
| Offensive 12 mm
| FMBC mk.1
|
|-
| II
| New Boosters
| Compressor
| Airframe
|
| FLBC mk.1
| NAGP mk.1
|-
| III
| Wings Repair
| Engine
|
| New 12 mm MGs
| FLBC mk.3
|
|-
| IV
| G-Suit
| Engine Injection
| Cover
|
| FRC mk.5
|
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Variety of payload options
* Good fast-firing armament (M3 Browning MGs) with a high ammo capacity
* Above average climb rate
* Fast once upgraded (can outrun pretty much every fighter in level flight)
* Excellent in head-ons (which should rather be avoided due to large profile of F-82)
* M20 API-T ammunition option
* When equipped with a gun pod the F-82 is a flying flamethrower
* Brutal acceleration in dive
* Centre-mounted armament both primary and gun pod, allowing for devastating accuracy
* Pilot and co-pilot seated offset from the centre of the aircraft, making them harder to reliably hit
* Sturdy airframe

'''Cons:'''

* Poor handling
* Difficult to aim (it gets a bit better with booster upgrade)
* Elevator prone to failure when damaged
* With the gun pod installed, the continuous fire will slow the plane down significantly
* Prone to control stiffening in a dive

== History ==


Designed to provide the US forces with long-range escort capabilities over the Pacific, the F-82 bore the appearance of desperate measures taken to use surplus P-51 parts. In reality, the F-82 was purposely designed as such in order to provide a fighter plane that had fresh pilots ready to engage, despite the tedious nature of long distance flights. Each fuselage carried a pilot and a co-pilot/navigator which reduced individual fatigue over long missions.

The F-82 started development in 1944, with significant deliveries done in early 1946. Although too late for the war, the fighter still saw extensive use by Air Defense Command as an escort fighter and a night fighter. 14 F-82's were converted to winterized interceptors for use over Alaska. It also saw significant use in the Korean War with Japanese based (US planes deployed from Japan) F-82s among the first aircraft to operate over Korea. In fact, the first three North Korean aircraft shot down by US forces were done so by the Twin Mustang.

=== In-game description ===
"In late 1943, North American aviation designers proposed a design project: a new long-range fighter designated the P-82 (NA-120). One two-seat machine was to be created from two P-51D aircraft. The fuselage, one wing (left or right) and the vertical empennage were taken from the production fighter. The fuselages were connected with a new central wing section and a rectangular tailplane. The result was a strong and rigid frame without a central nacelle.

The aircraft was launched into full-scale production in 1944. Several variants were based on it, including the P-82G (NA-150) night interceptor fighter, which started full-scale production in 1946.

The power unit of the P-82G consisted of two Allison V-1710-143 and V-1710-145 (to the left and to the right, respectively) twelve-cylinder, V-type, liquid-cooled engines producing a maximum power of 1,930 hp. The engines were equipped with flame arresters in their exhaust pipes.

An SCR-720C radar was housed in a large container fastened under the center wing section. The radar antenna was installed in a radar-transparent nosecone which protruded ahead of the propeller arc.

The plane's armament consisted of six 12.7 mm Colt-Browning M2.5 machine guns, with 400 rounds each, housed in the center wing section. It was possible to suspend two fuel tanks, two 1,000 lb (454 kg) bombs, or four guide rails for unguided HVAR missiles under the wing panels.

The left cockpit was occupied by the pilot, and the right one by the radar operator. The operator did not have a second control system, so an automatic pilot was installed on the aircraft to reduce the in-flight load on the pilot.

The night interceptor was fitted with extra radio electronic equipment: a blind instrument landing system, a radio altimeter, an AN/APS-13 rear attack warning radar, and an AN/APN-19 identification friend or foe transponder.

In June 1948, the US military aircraft designation system was changed. Accordingly, the P-82G was now designated the F-82G. 14 F-82G fighters were converted to a special F-82H Arctic version, to be operated in Alaska.

Production of the F-82G was discontinued in 1949, with 59 aircraft built in total. They became the last piston-engined fighters built in the USA.

F-82G night fighters participated in the Korean War. On 27 June 1950, the crew of an F-82G from the 68th Fighter Squadron (68 FS) shot down a North Korean plane. It was the first air victory in the Korean War and the first victory of the newly formed USAF."

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23f82 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

;Videos
{{Youtube-gallery|d5k2T9FP0bQ|'''Avoid them in frontal attack!''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 0:38 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[P-51 (Family)]]

;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* [[Bf 109 Z]]

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

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

{{AirManufacturer NAA}}
{{USA twin-engine fighters}}