War Thunder Wiki - User contributions [en]

MQ-1

2023-12-11T18:59:42Z

U90120302: /* Usage in battles */ Added a section on the MQ-1's usage in battles section.

{{Specs-Card
|code=ucav_mq_1_predator
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an American strike UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle), developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. Developed from the General Atomics Gnat 750, the "Predator", as the MQ-1 was named, would go on to serve in many conflicts around the world, including in Bosnia, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, to name a few. It served extensively from 1995 until 2018, after which it was replaced by the MQ-9 "Reaper".

The Predator was introduced in [[Update "Drone Age"]]. All nations besides Russia and China gain access to this vehicle to spawn for 750 spawn points; this is not a researchable vehicle. This vehicle is useful in cases where other CAS is unavailable or unable to be used, for example in night battles. With 2 Hellfires, the arsenal is limited, though the drone can be useful to locate enemy vehicles once dry of missiles, with the excellent optical zoom and thermals.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 1,000 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
|-
| 220 || 220 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.0 || 22.0 || 2.5 || 2.5 || 250
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || X || X || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 390  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

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

=== 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.''

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

{{main|AGM-114K Hellfire II}}

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

* 2 x AGM-114K Hellfire II missiles

== Usage in battles ==

===== General Overview =====
As the MQ-1 has a limited payload, it is advised to use the drone for reconnaissance rather than to kill the first two targets you see. This will ensure that your team is able to identify and deal with threats as best they can, while using the drone as a backup in case of emergency situations.

====== Target Designation and Reconnaissance ======
The MQ-1 is equipped with a highly effective targeting pod, boasting thermal vision and enhanced zoom. This allows the operator to scout targets from a long distance, and then being able to relay information to ground forces or close air support elements. Using the MQ-1 to survey the battlefield and relay targets is a tried and tested way of helping your team hold and capture objectives, critical for winning the game.

====== SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defence) ======
It can be said that due to the MQ-1's ability to somewhat hide from radar (due to it's small size and high altitude) it can be used to destroy enemy Air Defence systems on the ground. This ensures that more well-armed teammates - such as the Apache helicopter - can operate more freely as there are less air defence systems in place to destroy them. This allows for teammates to destroy more vehicles and become more efficient in close air support.

====== Redeployment and Withdrawal ======
Due to the nature of the MQ-1's spawning midair and slow speed, it is extremely slow to re-arm the vehicle. The speed of the MQ-1 can be compared to biplane aircraft, which, evidently, are quite slow. It is often easier to abandon the vehicle after the user has felt that its purpose has been served.

This being said, the redeployment of the vehicle is possible in the sense that the MQ-1 can orbit different parts of a map. The MQ-1 has no problems climbing and gaining altitude, able to change areas of surveillance and relay further information to the team.

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Spawns close to battlefield
* The Hellfire missiles are accurate and have a long range
* Can carry a lot of fuel
* Extremely high visibility with thermal targeting pod

'''Cons:'''

* Limited payload, only two missiles
* Slow
* Extremely vulnerable to AA at the same BR
* High spawn cost compared to vehicles with higher payloads

== History ==

The MQ-1 Predator was an unmanned aerial vehicle developed by General Atomics for the USAF in the 1990s. General Atomics was selected for the development of the aircraft in 1994 with its first flight on the 3rd July 1994 at El Mirage Airfield in the Mojave Desert. The aircraft had a lot of similarities to the General Atomics Gnat 750, which was a reconnaissance drone developed in the late 1980s.

The aircraft participated in different exercises in 1995 as part of its ACTD (Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration). In this stage, it was flown by members of the US Navy, Air Force, Army, and the Marine Corps with successful results.

This lead to the decision to deploy the MQ-1 in 1995 as part of the peacekeeping missions in the Balkans, thus it was deployed in Albania and former Yugoslavia. Its first deployment en masse was during the Afghan Campaign of 2001. At that point, the US had 60 Predators in service but 20 were lost in action during the campaign. However, problems soon started to appear, since most of these losses were not due to enemy fire, instead they happened because of reliability problems. The aircraft struggled with icy and cold weather conditions, which are normal in the mountains of Afghanistan. Thus the aircraft's development continued, incorporating a de-icing system, upgraded turbocharger, and improved avionics in what was called the Block 1 or MQ-1L.

Its armed version, known as RQ-1 in the development process, incorporated pylons for guided ammunitions such as laser guided missiles, like the Hellfire ATGM. Several tests were carried during the early 2000s with good results and several simulated targets being destroyed by the Predator. These Predator models were put into service with the designation MQ-1A. Other tests occurred during 2001 after the CIA advocated to use the Hellfire armed version of the Predator to target high value targets like Osama Bin Laden. However these tests showed mixed results, because of issues with the missile fuze that were later resolved. This version however was only deployed to Afghanistan after the September 11 incident.

The Predator as a platform showed good results, being the main UAV in service with the USAF and other branches of the US Armed Forces until the arrival of the MQ-9 Reaper, which was itself a further development of the MQ-1. The aircraft was deployed to the Balkans, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Syria and several other locations where it was used not only in military operations but also as a counter-terrorist weapon. Because of its unmanned nature, it was safer to use drones like the Predator to find and later execute any target without risking the lives of pilots or ground forces in the process.

The Predator remained in limited US service up to 2018 when it was completely retired in favour of the heavier and more capable MQ-9 Reaper, but it didn't only fly for the US Armed Forces. The Italian Armed Forces signed a contract for 6 x MQ-1A Predator drones in 2002 with the units being delivered in 2004. These units were used in Afghanistan, Djibouti and Iraq with more than 8,000 hours of flight. Licenses for its sale were also given to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Morocco and Egypt.

== Media ==
[[File:MQ-1 Drone Wallpaper.jpg|thumb|MQ-1 UCAV equipped with two AGM-114 'Hellfire' missiles. ]]
''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 ==


* [[wikipedia:General_Atomics_MQ-1_Predator|[Wikipedia] General Atomics MQ-1 Predator]]

{{AirManufacturer General Atomics}}
{{Strike UCAVs}}

MiG-27K

2023-12-10T16:40:36Z

U90120302: /* Usage in battles */ Added another section to the MiG-27K's playstyle section.

{{About
| about = Soviet jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the other MiG-27
| link = MiG-27M
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_27k
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

Following the introduction of the MiG-27 into the Soviet Air Force in the mid 1970s, a major upgrade program was initiated by Mikoyan OKB to overhaul the MiG-27's capabilities. This program included the addition of the powerful Kayra-23 laser-optical sight and targeting system, permitting the aircraft to use laser and TV-guided ordnance, along with many upgrades to the avionics and airframe. In the end, this heavily upgraded variant entered service as the MiG-27K, with a large order for the Soviet Air Force. However, due to lack of funding and the high costs, the Soviet Air Force would cut their MiG-27K order in half, and instead order the other half to be a cheaper variant. Mikoyan OKB would then develop the [[MiG-27M]] as the "cheaper" upgraded variant.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Winged Lions"]], is the epitome of single seat Soviet swing-wing ground attack aircraft. Combining major upgrades in avionics, ordnance, and targeting systems into one of the most lethal CAS aircraft of its battle rating, the MiG-27K is truly a force to be reckoned from both the air and the ground. Striking ground targets in mixed battles is easy for this plane, thanks to the strong targeting systems and abundance of laser and TV guided weaponry. The aircraft is no slouch either in air battles, carrying enough bombs to level one base in addition to its full complement of air-to-air missiles and great low altitude flight performance already familiar to pilots of the preceding [[MiG-27M]].

== 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
| 2,182 || 2,172 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 36.6 || 36.8 || 133.9 || 127.3 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,220 || 2,200 || 35.4 || 36.0 || 177.4 || 154.6
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,417 || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 675 || < 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-29B-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,605 kg || colspan="3" | 419 - 472 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,964 kg || 13,912 kg || 15,065 kg || 16,135 kg || 20,760 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
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,208 kgf
| 0.79 || 0.73 || 0.68 || 0.63 || 0.49
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,633 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 0.97 || 0.91 || 0.84 || 0.78 || 0.61
|-
|}

=== 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}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|GSh-6-30 (30 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon, belly-mounted (300 rpg)
** 1 x 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon + 72 x large calibre countermeasures

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


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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
| rowspan="22" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_MiG-27M.png]]</div>
|-
! [[GSh-23L (23 mm)|23 mm GSh-23L]] cannons (250 rpg)
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
| 4 || 1 || 4 || 4 || 4 || 1 || 4
|-
! [[FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|250 kg FAB-250M-62]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-250Sh (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250Sh]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500M-62]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[FAB-500Sh (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500Sh]] bombs
| 1 || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[KAB-500Kr (500 kg)|500 kg KAB-500Kr]] bombs
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[KAB-500L (500 kg)|500 kg KAB-500L]] bombs
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[ZB-500 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || 1 || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[S-5K]] rockets
| 32 || || 32 || || 32 || || 32
|-
! [[S-8KO]] rockets
| 20 || || 20 || || 20 || || 20
|-
! [[S-24B]] rockets
| 1 || || 1 || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[Kh-23M]] missiles
| 1† || || || || || || 1†
|-
! [[Kh-25ML]] missiles
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[Kh-29L]] missiles
| 1* || || || || || || 1*
|-
! [[Kh-29T]] missiles
| 1* || || || || || || 1*
|-
! [[R-13M1]] missiles
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[R-60M]] missiles
| 2 || || || || || || 2
|-
! Delta-NG targeting pod
| || || 1† || || || ||
|-
! 800 l drop tanks
| || || || 1 || || ||
|-
| colspan="8" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 700 kg
|-
| colspan="9" | * KAB-500Kr and KAB-500L bombs, Kh-25ML, Kh-29L, and Kh-29T missiles cannot be mixed, only one type may be carried across hardpoints † It is required to equip the Delta-NG targeting pod with the Kh-23M missiles
|-
|}

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

* 1 x 800 l drop tank
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60M missiles
* 22 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (2,200 kg total)
* 7 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,750 kg total)
* 7 x 250 kg OFAB-250Sh bombs (1,750 kg total)
* 7 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (3,500 kg total)
* 5 x 500 kg FAB-500Sh bombs (2,500 kg total)
* 4 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs
* 4 x 500 kg KAB-500Kr bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 4 x 500 kg KAB-500L bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 128 x S-5K rockets
* 80 x S-8KO rockets
* 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 2 x Kh-29T missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)
{{Navigation-End}}

As mentioned before, the MiG-27K's arsenal is largely the same as the MiG-27M's. Unguided options include bombs, rockets, and gun pods and the TV guided weapons are still the Kh-29T missile and KAB-500Kr bomb. These two weapon categories function more or less the same as the MiG-27M. The real stars of the show are now the laser-guided weapons: the familiar Kh-25ML and Kh-29L missiles are far easier to use with the MiG-27K's optics, which have high zoom and a wide field of view akin to an attack helicopter. It is now possible to designate and track targets from long distances and indirect angles, which makes flying the aircraft in attack approaches much easier. The new KAB-500L laser-guided bombs are an extra option for those who want precise and powerful explosions that can take out clustered targets, but they are slower than the air-to-ground missiles and may be trickier to guide due to their unpowered nature.

== Usage in battles ==

'''General Tactics'''

The user is able to utilise the MiG-27K's powerful ordanance and long range to eliminate many ground vehicles in a single pass. The MiG-27K can be used to destroy enemy vehicles from an extreme range. The pilot of the aircraft should ensure that they manage targets effectively to score as many kills as possible and keeping themselves alive. It should be noted that a MiG-27K can single-handedly change the course of a game if handled correctly, avoiding SPAA and enemy jets by giving them a small window of opportunity for the kill.

From the perspective of the ground player, the MiG-27K can be rather terrifying. The capabilities of the vehicle come from its range, speed and potent weapons. This allows the MiG to only reveal itself for an extremely short amount of time, only appearing when striking targets from a distance. The MBT has a close to zero chance of being able to do ''anything'' against the MiG-27K, and that is what makes it so terrifying.

The pilot should, however, keep an eye out for other enemy aircraft, as the MiG-27K has a limited amount of chaff and flares, and a poor selection of air-to-air missiles for its position in the tech tree. Avoiding SPAA is imperative as vehicles such as the notorious FlaRakRad will have a field day with a MiG if flown incorrectly.

====== Using air-to-ground missiles ======
It is suggested to use air-to-ground missiles against targets such as SPAA and tanks. The KH-25ML, KH-29L and KH-29T rockets are excellent examples of powerful ordanance that can be employed to destroy multiple targets in a single pass. A massive advantage of using these missiles is that they are extremely potent, and therefore the pilot doesn't need to worry about where he is aiming, as long as he hits the target.

Firstly, the pilot must be aware of the current situation on the battlefield, and create a list of targets that are imperative to winning the battle. If enemies are overrunning a point, for example, the MiG-27K can be used to relieve pressure on the team and destroy targets capturing the point. In doing this, the pilot should manage their altitude in order to avoid SPAA fire as best they can, and using their targeting pod to guide missiles in to high-priority targets.
[[File:Mig 27.png|thumb|MiG-27k using high-zoom optics to seek a target at a range of almost 10 kilometres away. ]]
This can be done from any altitude, but a lower one is more reliable as it gives the SPAA player a shorter time to react, lock and fire upon the MiG-27K. Use your high speed to evacuate the danger zone after a pass, re-evaluate the situation and go in for more kills. Once you are out of missiles, simply rush to the airfield and ensure that you re-arm and refuel. Take off once again and continue the process of evaluating targets, taking them out and re-positioning, keeping the enemies guessing as to where you are. The benefits of using guided missiles are the fact that they have high battlefield maneuverability, allowing them to be fired when the MiG-27K is not facing its target.

====== Using guided bombs ======
Guided bombs such as the KAB-500L and KAB-500Kr bombs have an enhanced range due to them being unpowered and droppable from any height.

This means that the MiG-27K pilot can climb to extreme altitude, avoiding SPAA's attention, and carefully selecting targets based on the situation they find themselves in. However, an altitude of over 10000 metres or 33000 feet should be attained, as SPAA is designed specifically for destroying high-flying aircraft.

Guided bombs can be used to quietly eliminate targets from such a distance that they were not even aware the MiG was in the area, allowing for multiple targets to be acquired and destroyed on a single pass. This allows them to take out targets and re-arm without any realistic threat from the ground. However, this leaves the MiG vulnerable to other aircraft that are capable of firing missiles that can destroy their vehicle from many miles away - namely the FlaRakRad and the ADATS weapon systems.

====== Up Close & Personal ======
The MiG-27K has one final ace up its sleeve. The infamous GSh-6-30 cannon, mounted on the bottom of the vehicle.

It is not advised to use the minigun, as it leaves the pilot vulnerable to SPAA strikes. However, some situations call for a desperate attempt to thwart the enemy advance, and the GSh-6-30 is more than capable of doing this. Equipped with 300 rounds of ammunition, the 30mm cannon will shred any lightly armored vehicle with ease. Heavier armour, such as Leopard MBTs and Abrams MBTs can also be approached, albeit from the top. Getting rounds through the top of the turret will vaporise crew members and components inside, resulting in the temporary crippling of the vehicle or outright destruction. Ammo loads are often ignited by the cannon, rendering the tank useless unless it re-arms.

SPAA vehicles will have an extremely difficult time defending against the cannon if caught unaware, as it will easily destroy most SPAA vehicles with a few rounds. However, spawn invulnerability may play a large part into the demise of the "brawling" playstyle, as invincible SPAA will cause a large issue for the MiG-27K on the exit of the gunrun.

Another point should be made on overcommitting to the airstrike, as the MiG-27K is not as maneuverable as other aircraft. This means that the plane will not pull up as violently as one might want it to when in a dive, resulting the pilot ploughing into the ground at Mach 1.

=== Pros and cons ===

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

'''Pros:'''

- Ability to equip 4 devastating air-to-ground missiles

- Supersonic aircraft capable of re-arming quickly

- Access to guided bombs and effective munition, able to outrange some SPAA found at this tier

- Effective targeting pod with high sight range, upwards of 15KM in good visibility

*

'''Cons:'''

- Low amount of ordanance compared to more modern vehicles at the same tier

- Lack of thermal targeting pod means vehicle is rendered inadequate in poor weather conditions

- Poor selection of AAM (Air to Air Missiles) compared to other vehicles with more modern AAM capabilities

- Less manueverable than other vehicles at the same BR

- Vulnerable to AAA due to its large radar signature

*

== History ==

The MiG-27K is the final Soviet version of the MiG-27 ground attack aircraft, derived from the MiG-23. This variant of the MiG-27 differs from previous versions mainly through the inclusion of an onboard laser designator and compatibility with TV-guided weapons systems.

The MiG-27K is a variant of the MiG-27, a ground-attack aircraft derived from the earlier MiG-23. Compared to the MiG-23, the MiG-27 featured a revised downward-sloping nose, leading the aircraft to be nicknamed "Balkon" ("Balcony") because of its improved frontal visibility. The aircraft also had simpler non-variable intake ramps and a fixed engine nozzle, leading to weight savings. In accordance with its ground attack role, the MiG-27 lacked a radar and was instead fitted with ground attack systems.

The MiG-27K followed the previous MiG-27M as the ultimate variant of the MiG-27 in Soviet service. The most notable change was the addition of a laser designator and targeting pod in the nose of the aircraft. Additionally, the aircraft gained the ability to carry TV-guided munitions. In total, roughly 200 MiG-27Ks were built for the Soviet air force.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_27k Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[MiG-23 (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/534250-mig-27m/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{USSR jet aircraft}}

MiG-27K

2023-12-10T16:28:44Z

U90120302: /* Usage in battles */ Updated the usage in battles section to look more tidy, and allow the reader to think about many possibilities when it comes to using the MiG-27k.

{{About
| about = Soviet jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the other MiG-27
| link = MiG-27M
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_27k
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

Following the introduction of the MiG-27 into the Soviet Air Force in the mid 1970s, a major upgrade program was initiated by Mikoyan OKB to overhaul the MiG-27's capabilities. This program included the addition of the powerful Kayra-23 laser-optical sight and targeting system, permitting the aircraft to use laser and TV-guided ordnance, along with many upgrades to the avionics and airframe. In the end, this heavily upgraded variant entered service as the MiG-27K, with a large order for the Soviet Air Force. However, due to lack of funding and the high costs, the Soviet Air Force would cut their MiG-27K order in half, and instead order the other half to be a cheaper variant. Mikoyan OKB would then develop the [[MiG-27M]] as the "cheaper" upgraded variant.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Winged Lions"]], is the epitome of single seat Soviet swing-wing ground attack aircraft. Combining major upgrades in avionics, ordnance, and targeting systems into one of the most lethal CAS aircraft of its battle rating, the MiG-27K is truly a force to be reckoned from both the air and the ground. Striking ground targets in mixed battles is easy for this plane, thanks to the strong targeting systems and abundance of laser and TV guided weaponry. The aircraft is no slouch either in air battles, carrying enough bombs to level one base in addition to its full complement of air-to-air missiles and great low altitude flight performance already familiar to pilots of the preceding [[MiG-27M]].

== 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
| 2,182 || 2,172 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 36.6 || 36.8 || 133.9 || 127.3 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,220 || 2,200 || 35.4 || 36.0 || 177.4 || 154.6
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,417 || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 675 || < 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-29B-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,605 kg || colspan="3" | 419 - 472 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,964 kg || 13,912 kg || 15,065 kg || 16,135 kg || 20,760 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
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,208 kgf
| 0.79 || 0.73 || 0.68 || 0.63 || 0.49
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,633 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 0.97 || 0.91 || 0.84 || 0.78 || 0.61
|-
|}

=== 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}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|GSh-6-30 (30 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon, belly-mounted (300 rpg)
** 1 x 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon + 72 x large calibre countermeasures

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


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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
| rowspan="22" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_MiG-27M.png]]</div>
|-
! [[GSh-23L (23 mm)|23 mm GSh-23L]] cannons (250 rpg)
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
| 4 || 1 || 4 || 4 || 4 || 1 || 4
|-
! [[FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|250 kg FAB-250M-62]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-250Sh (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250Sh]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500M-62]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[FAB-500Sh (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500Sh]] bombs
| 1 || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[KAB-500Kr (500 kg)|500 kg KAB-500Kr]] bombs
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[KAB-500L (500 kg)|500 kg KAB-500L]] bombs
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[ZB-500 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || 1 || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[S-5K]] rockets
| 32 || || 32 || || 32 || || 32
|-
! [[S-8KO]] rockets
| 20 || || 20 || || 20 || || 20
|-
! [[S-24B]] rockets
| 1 || || 1 || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[Kh-23M]] missiles
| 1† || || || || || || 1†
|-
! [[Kh-25ML]] missiles
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[Kh-29L]] missiles
| 1* || || || || || || 1*
|-
! [[Kh-29T]] missiles
| 1* || || || || || || 1*
|-
! [[R-13M1]] missiles
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[R-60M]] missiles
| 2 || || || || || || 2
|-
! Delta-NG targeting pod
| || || 1† || || || ||
|-
! 800 l drop tanks
| || || || 1 || || ||
|-
| colspan="8" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 700 kg
|-
| colspan="9" | * KAB-500Kr and KAB-500L bombs, Kh-25ML, Kh-29L, and Kh-29T missiles cannot be mixed, only one type may be carried across hardpoints † It is required to equip the Delta-NG targeting pod with the Kh-23M missiles
|-
|}

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

* 1 x 800 l drop tank
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60M missiles
* 22 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (2,200 kg total)
* 7 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,750 kg total)
* 7 x 250 kg OFAB-250Sh bombs (1,750 kg total)
* 7 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (3,500 kg total)
* 5 x 500 kg FAB-500Sh bombs (2,500 kg total)
* 4 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs
* 4 x 500 kg KAB-500Kr bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 4 x 500 kg KAB-500L bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 128 x S-5K rockets
* 80 x S-8KO rockets
* 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 2 x Kh-29T missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)
{{Navigation-End}}

As mentioned before, the MiG-27K's arsenal is largely the same as the MiG-27M's. Unguided options include bombs, rockets, and gun pods and the TV guided weapons are still the Kh-29T missile and KAB-500Kr bomb. These two weapon categories function more or less the same as the MiG-27M. The real stars of the show are now the laser-guided weapons: the familiar Kh-25ML and Kh-29L missiles are far easier to use with the MiG-27K's optics, which have high zoom and a wide field of view akin to an attack helicopter. It is now possible to designate and track targets from long distances and indirect angles, which makes flying the aircraft in attack approaches much easier. The new KAB-500L laser-guided bombs are an extra option for those who want precise and powerful explosions that can take out clustered targets, but they are slower than the air-to-ground missiles and may be trickier to guide due to their unpowered nature.

== Usage in battles ==

'''General Tactics'''

The user is able to utilise the MiG-27K's powerful ordanance and long range to eliminate many ground vehicles in a single pass. The MiG-27K can be used to destroy enemy vehicles from an extreme range. The pilot of the aircraft should ensure that they manage targets effectively to score as many kills as possible and keeping themselves alive. It should be noted that a MiG-27K can single-handedly change the course of a game if handled correctly, avoiding SPAA and enemy jets by giving them a small window of opportunity for the kill.

From the perspective of the ground player, the MiG-27K can be rather terrifying. The capabilities of the vehicle come from its range, speed and potent weapons. This allows the MiG to only reveal itself for an extremely short amount of time, only appearing when striking targets from a distance. The MBT has a close to zero chance of being able to do ''anything'' against the MiG-27K, and that is what makes it so terrifying.

The pilot should, however, keep an eye out for other enemy aircraft, as the MiG-27K has a limited amount of chaff and flares, and a poor selection of air-to-air missiles for its position in the tech tree. Avoiding SPAA is imperative as vehicles such as the notorious FlaRakRad will have a field day with a MiG if flown incorrectly.

====== Using air-to-ground missiles ======
It is suggested to use air-to-ground missiles against targets such as SPAA and tanks. The KH-25ML, KH-29L and KH-29T rockets are excellent examples of powerful ordanance that can be employed to destroy multiple targets in a single pass. A massive advantage of using these missiles is that they are extremely potent, and therefore the pilot doesn't need to worry about where he is aiming, as long as he hits the target.

Firstly, the pilot must be aware of the current situation on the battlefield, and create a list of targets that are imperative to winning the battle. If enemies are overrunning a point, for example, the MiG-27K can be used to relieve pressure on the team and destroy targets capturing the point. In doing this, the pilot should manage their altitude in order to avoid SPAA fire as best they can, and using their targeting pod to guide missiles in to high-priority targets.
[[File:Mig 27.png|thumb|MiG-27k using high-zoom optics to seek a target at a range of almost 10 kilometres away. ]]
This can be done from any altitude, but a lower one is more reliable as it gives the SPAA player a shorter time to react, lock and fire upon the MiG-27K. Use your high speed to evacuate the danger zone after a pass, re-evaluate the situation and go in for more kills. Once you are out of missiles, simply rush to the airfield and ensure that you re-arm and refuel. Take off once again and continue the process of evaluating targets, taking them out and re-positioning, keeping the enemies guessing as to where you are. The benefits of using guided missiles are the fact that they have high battlefield maneuverability, allowing them to be fired when the MiG-27K is not facing its target.

====== Using guided bombs ======
Guided bombs such as the KAB-500L and KAB-500Kr bombs have an enhanced range due to them being unpowered and droppable from any height.

This means that the MiG-27K pilot can climb to extreme altitude, avoiding SPAA's attention, and carefully selecting targets based on the situation they find themselves in. However, an altitude of over 10000 metres or 33000 feet should be attained, as SPAA is designed specifically for destroying high-flying aircraft.

Guided bombs can be used to quietly eliminate targets from such a distance that they were not even aware the MiG was in the area, allowing for multiple targets to be acquired and destroyed on a single pass. This allows them to take out targets and re-arm without any realistic threat from the ground. However, this leaves the MiG vulnerable to other aircraft that are capable of firing missiles that can destroy their vehicle from many miles away - namely the FlaRakRad and the ADATS weapon systems.

=== Pros and cons ===

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

'''Pros:'''

- Ability to equip 4 devastating air-to-ground missiles

- Supersonic aircraft capable of re-arming quickly

- Access to guided bombs and effective munition, able to outrange some SPAA found at this tier

- Effective targeting pod with high sight range, upwards of 15KM in good visibility

*

'''Cons:'''

- Low amount of ordanance compared to more modern vehicles at the same tier

- Lack of thermal targeting pod means vehicle is rendered inadequate in poor weather conditions

- Poor selection of AAM (Air to Air Missiles) compared to other vehicles with more modern AAM capabilities

- Less manueverable than other vehicles at the same BR

- Vulnerable to AAA due to its large radar signature

*

== History ==

The MiG-27K is the final Soviet version of the MiG-27 ground attack aircraft, derived from the MiG-23. This variant of the MiG-27 differs from previous versions mainly through the inclusion of an onboard laser designator and compatibility with TV-guided weapons systems.

The MiG-27K is a variant of the MiG-27, a ground-attack aircraft derived from the earlier MiG-23. Compared to the MiG-23, the MiG-27 featured a revised downward-sloping nose, leading the aircraft to be nicknamed "Balkon" ("Balcony") because of its improved frontal visibility. The aircraft also had simpler non-variable intake ramps and a fixed engine nozzle, leading to weight savings. In accordance with its ground attack role, the MiG-27 lacked a radar and was instead fitted with ground attack systems.

The MiG-27K followed the previous MiG-27M as the ultimate variant of the MiG-27 in Soviet service. The most notable change was the addition of a laser designator and targeting pod in the nose of the aircraft. Additionally, the aircraft gained the ability to carry TV-guided munitions. In total, roughly 200 MiG-27Ks were built for the Soviet air force.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_27k Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[MiG-23 (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/534250-mig-27m/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{USSR jet aircraft}}

File:Mig 27.png

2023-12-10T16:16:50Z

U90120302:

MiG-27k in the test range, using high-zoom optics to aqcuire a target from a range of 10 kilometres.

MiG-27K

2023-12-10T15:58:35Z

U90120302: /* Usage in battles */ Added a brief usage in battles section to the MiG-27K

{{About
| about = Soviet jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the other MiG-27
| link = MiG-27M
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_27k
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

Following the introduction of the MiG-27 into the Soviet Air Force in the mid 1970s, a major upgrade program was initiated by Mikoyan OKB to overhaul the MiG-27's capabilities. This program included the addition of the powerful Kayra-23 laser-optical sight and targeting system, permitting the aircraft to use laser and TV-guided ordnance, along with many upgrades to the avionics and airframe. In the end, this heavily upgraded variant entered service as the MiG-27K, with a large order for the Soviet Air Force. However, due to lack of funding and the high costs, the Soviet Air Force would cut their MiG-27K order in half, and instead order the other half to be a cheaper variant. Mikoyan OKB would then develop the [[MiG-27M]] as the "cheaper" upgraded variant.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Winged Lions"]], is the epitome of single seat Soviet swing-wing ground attack aircraft. Combining major upgrades in avionics, ordnance, and targeting systems into one of the most lethal CAS aircraft of its battle rating, the MiG-27K is truly a force to be reckoned from both the air and the ground. Striking ground targets in mixed battles is easy for this plane, thanks to the strong targeting systems and abundance of laser and TV guided weaponry. The aircraft is no slouch either in air battles, carrying enough bombs to level one base in addition to its full complement of air-to-air missiles and great low altitude flight performance already familiar to pilots of the preceding [[MiG-27M]].

== 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
| 2,182 || 2,172 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 36.6 || 36.8 || 133.9 || 127.3 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,220 || 2,200 || 35.4 || 36.0 || 177.4 || 154.6
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,417 || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 675 || < 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-29B-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,605 kg || colspan="3" | 419 - 472 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,964 kg || 13,912 kg || 15,065 kg || 16,135 kg || 20,760 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
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,208 kgf
| 0.79 || 0.73 || 0.68 || 0.63 || 0.49
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,633 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 0.97 || 0.91 || 0.84 || 0.78 || 0.61
|-
|}

=== 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}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|GSh-6-30 (30 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon, belly-mounted (300 rpg)
** 1 x 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon + 72 x large calibre countermeasures

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


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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
| rowspan="22" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_MiG-27M.png]]</div>
|-
! [[GSh-23L (23 mm)|23 mm GSh-23L]] cannons (250 rpg)
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
| 4 || 1 || 4 || 4 || 4 || 1 || 4
|-
! [[FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|250 kg FAB-250M-62]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-250Sh (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250Sh]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500M-62]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[FAB-500Sh (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500Sh]] bombs
| 1 || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[KAB-500Kr (500 kg)|500 kg KAB-500Kr]] bombs
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[KAB-500L (500 kg)|500 kg KAB-500L]] bombs
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[ZB-500 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || 1 || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[S-5K]] rockets
| 32 || || 32 || || 32 || || 32
|-
! [[S-8KO]] rockets
| 20 || || 20 || || 20 || || 20
|-
! [[S-24B]] rockets
| 1 || || 1 || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[Kh-23M]] missiles
| 1† || || || || || || 1†
|-
! [[Kh-25ML]] missiles
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[Kh-29L]] missiles
| 1* || || || || || || 1*
|-
! [[Kh-29T]] missiles
| 1* || || || || || || 1*
|-
! [[R-13M1]] missiles
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[R-60M]] missiles
| 2 || || || || || || 2
|-
! Delta-NG targeting pod
| || || 1† || || || ||
|-
! 800 l drop tanks
| || || || 1 || || ||
|-
| colspan="8" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 700 kg
|-
| colspan="9" | * KAB-500Kr and KAB-500L bombs, Kh-25ML, Kh-29L, and Kh-29T missiles cannot be mixed, only one type may be carried across hardpoints † It is required to equip the Delta-NG targeting pod with the Kh-23M missiles
|-
|}

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

* 1 x 800 l drop tank
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60M missiles
* 22 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (2,200 kg total)
* 7 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,750 kg total)
* 7 x 250 kg OFAB-250Sh bombs (1,750 kg total)
* 7 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (3,500 kg total)
* 5 x 500 kg FAB-500Sh bombs (2,500 kg total)
* 4 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs
* 4 x 500 kg KAB-500Kr bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 4 x 500 kg KAB-500L bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 128 x S-5K rockets
* 80 x S-8KO rockets
* 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 2 x Kh-29T missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)
{{Navigation-End}}

As mentioned before, the MiG-27K's arsenal is largely the same as the MiG-27M's. Unguided options include bombs, rockets, and gun pods and the TV guided weapons are still the Kh-29T missile and KAB-500Kr bomb. These two weapon categories function more or less the same as the MiG-27M. The real stars of the show are now the laser-guided weapons: the familiar Kh-25ML and Kh-29L missiles are far easier to use with the MiG-27K's optics, which have high zoom and a wide field of view akin to an attack helicopter. It is now possible to designate and track targets from long distances and indirect angles, which makes flying the aircraft in attack approaches much easier. The new KAB-500L laser-guided bombs are an extra option for those who want precise and powerful explosions that can take out clustered targets, but they are slower than the air-to-ground missiles and may be trickier to guide due to their unpowered nature.

== Usage in battles ==

The user is able to utilise the MiG-27K's powerful ordanance and long range to eliminate many ground vehicles in a single pass.

====== Using air-to-ground missiles ======
It is suggested to use air-to-ground missiles against targets such as SPAA and tanks. The KH-25ML, KH-29L and KH-29T rockets are excellent examples of powerful ordanance that can be employed to destroy multiple targets in a single pass. A massive advantage of using these missiles is that they are extremely potent, and therefore the pilot doesn't need to worry about where he is aiming, as long as he hits the target.

Firstly, the pilot must be aware of the current situation on the battlefield, and create a list of targets that are imperative to winning the battle. If enemies are overrunning a point, for example, the MiG-27K can be used to relieve pressure on the team and destroy targets capturing the point. In doing this, the pilot should manage their altitude in order to avoid SPAA fire as best they can, and using their targeting pod to guide missiles in to high-priority targets.

This can be done from any altitude, but a lower one is more reliable as it gives the SPAA player a shorter time to react, lock and fire upon the MiG-27K. Use your high speed to evacuate the danger zone after a pass, re-evaluate the situation and go in for more kills. Once you are out of missiles, simply rush to the airfield and ensure that you re-arm and refuel. Take off once again and continue the process of evaluating targets, taking them out and re-positioning, keeping the enemies guessing as to where you are. The benefits of using guided missiles are the fact that they have high battlefield maneuverability, allowing them to be fired when the MiG-27K is not facing it's target.

Always look out for enemy planes as they will be a large threat to your aircraft.

====== Using guided bombs ======
Guided bombs such as the KAB-500L and KAB-500Kr bombs have an enhanced range due to them being unpowered and droppable from any height.

This means that the MiG-27K pilot can climb to extreme altitude, avoiding SPAA's attention, and carefully selecting targets based on the situation they find themselves in. However, an altitude of over 10000 metres or 33000 feet should be attained, as SPAA is designed specifically for destroying high-flying aircraft.

Guided bombs can be used to quietly eliminate targets from such a distance that they were not even aware the MiG was in the area, allowing for multiple targets to be acquired and destroyed on a single pass. This allows them to take out targets and re-arm without any realistic threat from the ground. However, this leaves the MiG vulnerable to other aircraft that are capable of firing missiles that can destroy their vehicle from many miles away.

=== Pros and cons ===

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

'''Pros:'''

- Ability to equip 4 devastating air-to-ground missiles

- Supersonic aircraft capable of re-arming quickly

- Access to guided bombs and effective munition, able to outrange some SPAA found at this tier

- Effective targeting pod with high sight range, upwards of 15KM in good visibility

*

'''Cons:'''

- Low amount of ordanance compared to more modern vehicles at the same tier

- Lack of thermal targeting pod means vehicle is rendered inadequate in poor weather conditions

- Poor selection of AAM (Air to Air Missiles) compared to other vehicles with more modern AAM capabilities

- Less manueverable than other vehicles at the same BR

- Vulnerable to AAA due to its large radar signature

*

== History ==

The MiG-27K is the final Soviet version of the MiG-27 ground attack aircraft, derived from the MiG-23. This variant of the MiG-27 differs from previous versions mainly through the inclusion of an onboard laser designator and compatibility with TV-guided weapons systems.

The MiG-27K is a variant of the MiG-27, a ground-attack aircraft derived from the earlier MiG-23. Compared to the MiG-23, the MiG-27 featured a revised downward-sloping nose, leading the aircraft to be nicknamed "Balkon" ("Balcony") because of its improved frontal visibility. The aircraft also had simpler non-variable intake ramps and a fixed engine nozzle, leading to weight savings. In accordance with its ground attack role, the MiG-27 lacked a radar and was instead fitted with ground attack systems.

The MiG-27K followed the previous MiG-27M as the ultimate variant of the MiG-27 in Soviet service. The most notable change was the addition of a laser designator and targeting pod in the nose of the aircraft. Additionally, the aircraft gained the ability to carry TV-guided munitions. In total, roughly 200 MiG-27Ks were built for the Soviet air force.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_27k Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[MiG-23 (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/534250-mig-27m/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{USSR jet aircraft}}

MiG-27K

2023-12-10T15:41:04Z

U90120302: /* Pros and cons */ Added pros and cons to Mig-27K

{{About
| about = Soviet jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = the other MiG-27
| link = MiG-27M
}}
{{Specs-Card
|code=mig_27k
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

Following the introduction of the MiG-27 into the Soviet Air Force in the mid 1970s, a major upgrade program was initiated by Mikoyan OKB to overhaul the MiG-27's capabilities. This program included the addition of the powerful Kayra-23 laser-optical sight and targeting system, permitting the aircraft to use laser and TV-guided ordnance, along with many upgrades to the avionics and airframe. In the end, this heavily upgraded variant entered service as the MiG-27K, with a large order for the Soviet Air Force. However, due to lack of funding and the high costs, the Soviet Air Force would cut their MiG-27K order in half, and instead order the other half to be a cheaper variant. Mikoyan OKB would then develop the [[MiG-27M]] as the "cheaper" upgraded variant.

The '''{{Specs|name}}''', introduced in [[Update "Winged Lions"]], is the epitome of single seat Soviet swing-wing ground attack aircraft. Combining major upgrades in avionics, ordnance, and targeting systems into one of the most lethal CAS aircraft of its battle rating, the MiG-27K is truly a force to be reckoned from both the air and the ground. Striking ground targets in mixed battles is easy for this plane, thanks to the strong targeting systems and abundance of laser and TV guided weaponry. The aircraft is no slouch either in air battles, carrying enough bombs to level one base in addition to its full complement of air-to-air missiles and great low altitude flight performance already familiar to pilots of the preceding [[MiG-27M]].

== 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
| 2,182 || 2,172 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 36.6 || 36.8 || 133.9 || 127.3 || rowspan="2" | 750
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,220 || 2,200 || 35.4 || 36.0 || 177.4 || 154.6
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| 1,417 || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 508 || 473 || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 675 || < 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-29B-300 || 1
| colspan="2" | 11,605 kg || colspan="3" | 419 - 472 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel
|-
| 1,780 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 12,964 kg || 13,912 kg || 15,065 kg || 16,135 kg || 20,760 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
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 7,950 kgf || 10,208 kgf
| 0.79 || 0.73 || 0.68 || 0.63 || 0.49
|-
| ''Optimal'' || 8,268 kgf (1,400 km/h) || 12,633 kgf (1,400 km/h)
| 0.97 || 0.91 || 0.84 || 0.78 || 0.61
|-
|}

=== 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}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}}
|-
|}
=== Offensive armament ===
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}

{{main|GSh-6-30 (30 mm)}}

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

* A choice between two presets:
** 1 x 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon, belly-mounted (300 rpg)
** 1 x 30 mm GSh-6-30 cannon + 72 x large calibre countermeasures

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


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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
|-
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
| rowspan="22" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_MiG-27M.png]]</div>
|-
! [[GSh-23L (23 mm)|23 mm GSh-23L]] cannons (250 rpg)
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-100 (100 kg)|100 kg OFAB-100]] bombs
| 4 || 1 || 4 || 4 || 4 || 1 || 4
|-
! [[FAB-250M-62 (250 kg)|250 kg FAB-250M-62]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[OFAB-250Sh (250 kg)|250 kg OFAB-250Sh]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[FAB-500M-62 (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500M-62]] bombs
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
|-
! [[FAB-500Sh (500 kg)|500 kg FAB-500Sh]] bombs
| 1 || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[KAB-500Kr (500 kg)|500 kg KAB-500Kr]] bombs
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[KAB-500L (500 kg)|500 kg KAB-500L]] bombs
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[ZB-500 incendiary]] bombs
| 1 || || 1 || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[S-5K]] rockets
| 32 || || 32 || || 32 || || 32
|-
! [[S-8KO]] rockets
| 20 || || 20 || || 20 || || 20
|-
! [[S-24B]] rockets
| 1 || || 1 || || 1 || || 1
|-
! [[Kh-23M]] missiles
| 1† || || || || || || 1†
|-
! [[Kh-25ML]] missiles
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
|-
! [[Kh-29L]] missiles
| 1* || || || || || || 1*
|-
! [[Kh-29T]] missiles
| 1* || || || || || || 1*
|-
! [[R-13M1]] missiles
| 1 || || || || || || 1
|-
! [[R-60M]] missiles
| 2 || || || || || || 2
|-
! Delta-NG targeting pod
| || || 1† || || || ||
|-
! 800 l drop tanks
| || || || 1 || || ||
|-
| colspan="8" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 700 kg
|-
| colspan="9" | * KAB-500Kr and KAB-500L bombs, Kh-25ML, Kh-29L, and Kh-29T missiles cannot be mixed, only one type may be carried across hardpoints † It is required to equip the Delta-NG targeting pod with the Kh-23M missiles
|-
|}

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

* 1 x 800 l drop tank
* 2 x R-13M1 missiles
* 4 x R-60M missiles
* 22 x 100 kg OFAB-100 bombs (2,200 kg total)
* 7 x 250 kg FAB-250M-62 bombs (1,750 kg total)
* 7 x 250 kg OFAB-250Sh bombs (1,750 kg total)
* 7 x 500 kg FAB-500M-62 bombs (3,500 kg total)
* 5 x 500 kg FAB-500Sh bombs (2,500 kg total)
* 4 x ZB-500 incendiary bombs
* 4 x 500 kg KAB-500Kr bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 4 x 500 kg KAB-500L bombs (2,000 kg total)
* 128 x S-5K rockets
* 80 x S-8KO rockets
* 4 x S-24B rockets
* 2 x Kh-23M missiles
* 4 x Kh-25ML missiles
* 2 x Kh-29L missiles
* 2 x Kh-29T missiles
* 2 x 23 mm GSh-23L cannons (250 rpg = 500 total)
{{Navigation-End}}

As mentioned before, the MiG-27K's arsenal is largely the same as the MiG-27M's. Unguided options include bombs, rockets, and gun pods and the TV guided weapons are still the Kh-29T missile and KAB-500Kr bomb. These two weapon categories function more or less the same as the MiG-27M. The real stars of the show are now the laser-guided weapons: the familiar Kh-25ML and Kh-29L missiles are far easier to use with the MiG-27K's optics, which have high zoom and a wide field of view akin to an attack helicopter. It is now possible to designate and track targets from long distances and indirect angles, which makes flying the aircraft in attack approaches much easier. The new KAB-500L laser-guided bombs are an extra option for those who want precise and powerful explosions that can take out clustered targets, but they are slower than the air-to-ground missiles and may be trickier to guide due to their unpowered nature.

== 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 ===

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

'''Pros:'''

- Ability to equip 4 devastating air-to-ground missiles

- Supersonic aircraft capable of re-arming quickly

- Access to guided bombs and effective munition, able to outrange some SPAA found at this tier

- Effective targeting pod with high sight range, upwards of 15KM in good visibility

*

'''Cons:'''

- Low amount of ordanance compared to more modern vehicles at the same tier

- Lack of thermal targeting pod means vehicle is rendered inadequate in poor weather conditions

- Poor selection of AAM (Air to Air Missiles) compared to other vehicles with more modern AAM capabilities

- Less manueverable than other vehicles at the same BR

- Vulnerable to AAA due to its large radar signature

*

== History ==

The MiG-27K is the final Soviet version of the MiG-27 ground attack aircraft, derived from the MiG-23. This variant of the MiG-27 differs from previous versions mainly through the inclusion of an onboard laser designator and compatibility with TV-guided weapons systems.

The MiG-27K is a variant of the MiG-27, a ground-attack aircraft derived from the earlier MiG-23. Compared to the MiG-23, the MiG-27 featured a revised downward-sloping nose, leading the aircraft to be nicknamed "Balkon" ("Balcony") because of its improved frontal visibility. The aircraft also had simpler non-variable intake ramps and a fixed engine nozzle, leading to weight savings. In accordance with its ground attack role, the MiG-27 lacked a radar and was instead fitted with ground attack systems.

The MiG-27K followed the previous MiG-27M as the ultimate variant of the MiG-27 in Soviet service. The most notable change was the addition of a laser designator and targeting pod in the nose of the aircraft. Additionally, the aircraft gained the ability to carry TV-guided munitions. In total, roughly 200 MiG-27Ks were built for the Soviet air force.

== Media ==


;Skins

* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=mig_27k Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Related development

* [[MiG-23 (Family)]]

== External links ==


* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/534250-mig-27m/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]

{{AirManufacturer MiG}}
{{USSR jet aircraft}}

MQ-1

2023-12-10T15:31:57Z

U90120302: /* Media */ Added media to the MQ-1 section

{{Specs-Card
|code=ucav_mq_1_predator
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an American strike UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle), developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. Developed from the General Atomics Gnat 750, the "Predator", as the MQ-1 was named, would go on to serve in many conflicts around the world, including in Bosnia, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, to name a few. It served extensively from 1995 until 2018, after which it was replaced by the MQ-9 "Reaper".

The Predator was introduced in [[Update "Drone Age"]]. All nations besides Russia and China gain access to this vehicle to spawn for 750 spawn points; this is not a researchable vehicle. This vehicle is useful in cases where other CAS is unavailable or unable to be used, for example in night battles. With 2 Hellfires, the arsenal is limited, though the drone can be useful to locate enemy vehicles once dry of missiles, with the excellent optical zoom and thermals.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 1,000 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
|-
| 220 || 220 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.0 || 22.0 || 2.5 || 2.5 || 250
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || X || X || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 390  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

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

=== 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.''

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

{{main|AGM-114K Hellfire II}}

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

* 2 x AGM-114K Hellfire II 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:'''

* Spawns close to battlefield
* The Hellfire missiles are accurate and have a long range
* Can carry a lot of fuel
* Extremely high visibility with thermal targeting pod

'''Cons:'''

* Limited payload, only two missiles
* Slow
* Extremely vulnerable to AA at the same BR
* High spawn cost compared to vehicles with higher payloads

== History ==

The MQ-1 Predator was an unmanned aerial vehicle developed by General Atomics for the USAF in the 1990s. General Atomics was selected for the development of the aircraft in 1994 with its first flight on the 3rd July 1994 at El Mirage Airfield in the Mojave Desert. The aircraft had a lot of similarities to the General Atomics Gnat 750, which was a reconnaissance drone developed in the late 1980s.

The aircraft participated in different exercises in 1995 as part of its ACTD (Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration). In this stage, it was flown by members of the US Navy, Air Force, Army, and the Marine Corps with successful results.

This lead to the decision to deploy the MQ-1 in 1995 as part of the peacekeeping missions in the Balkans, thus it was deployed in Albania and former Yugoslavia. Its first deployment en masse was during the Afghan Campaign of 2001. At that point, the US had 60 Predators in service but 20 were lost in action during the campaign. However, problems soon started to appear, since most of these losses were not due to enemy fire, instead they happened because of reliability problems. The aircraft struggled with icy and cold weather conditions, which are normal in the mountains of Afghanistan. Thus the aircraft's development continued, incorporating a de-icing system, upgraded turbocharger, and improved avionics in what was called the Block 1 or MQ-1L.

Its armed version, known as RQ-1 in the development process, incorporated pylons for guided ammunitions such as laser guided missiles, like the Hellfire ATGM. Several tests were carried during the early 2000s with good results and several simulated targets being destroyed by the Predator. These Predator models were put into service with the designation MQ-1A. Other tests occurred during 2001 after the CIA advocated to use the Hellfire armed version of the Predator to target high value targets like Osama Bin Laden. However these tests showed mixed results, because of issues with the missile fuze that were later resolved. This version however was only deployed to Afghanistan after the September 11 incident.

The Predator as a platform showed good results, being the main UAV in service with the USAF and other branches of the US Armed Forces until the arrival of the MQ-9 Reaper, which was itself a further development of the MQ-1. The aircraft was deployed to the Balkans, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Syria and several other locations where it was used not only in military operations but also as a counter-terrorist weapon. Because of its unmanned nature, it was safer to use drones like the Predator to find and later execute any target without risking the lives of pilots or ground forces in the process.

The Predator remained in limited US service up to 2018 when it was completely retired in favour of the heavier and more capable MQ-9 Reaper, but it didn't only fly for the US Armed Forces. The Italian Armed Forces signed a contract for 6 x MQ-1A Predator drones in 2002 with the units being delivered in 2004. These units were used in Afghanistan, Djibouti and Iraq with more than 8,000 hours of flight. Licenses for its sale were also given to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Morocco and Egypt.

== Media ==
[[File:MQ-1 Drone Wallpaper.jpg|thumb|MQ-1 UCAV equipped with two AGM-114 'Hellfire' missiles. ]]
''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 ==


* [[wikipedia:General_Atomics_MQ-1_Predator|[Wikipedia] General Atomics MQ-1 Predator]]

{{AirManufacturer General Atomics}}
{{Strike UCAVs}}

MQ-1

2023-12-10T15:27:57Z

U90120302: Updated pros and cons section by describing the slowness of the UCAV but highlighting its extremely high visibility compared to helis at its br.

{{Specs-Card
|code=ucav_mq_1_predator
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an American strike UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle), developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. Developed from the General Atomics Gnat 750, the "Predator", as the MQ-1 was named, would go on to serve in many conflicts around the world, including in Bosnia, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, to name a few. It served extensively from 1995 until 2018, after which it was replaced by the MQ-9 "Reaper".

The Predator was introduced in [[Update "Drone Age"]]. All nations besides Russia and China gain access to this vehicle to spawn for 750 spawn points; this is not a researchable vehicle. This vehicle is useful in cases where other CAS is unavailable or unable to be used, for example in night battles. With 2 Hellfires, the arsenal is limited, though the drone can be useful to locate enemy vehicles once dry of missiles, with the excellent optical zoom and thermals.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 1,000 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
|-
| 220 || 220 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.0 || 22.0 || 2.5 || 2.5 || 250
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || X || X || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 390  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

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

=== 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.''

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

{{main|AGM-114K Hellfire II}}

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

* 2 x AGM-114K Hellfire II 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:'''

* Spawns close to battlefield
* The Hellfire missiles are accurate and have a long range
* Can carry a lot of fuel
* Extremely high visibility with thermal targeting pod

'''Cons:'''

* Limited payload, only two missiles
* Slow
* Extremely vulnerable to AA at the same BR
* High spawn cost compared to vehicles with higher payloads

== History ==

The MQ-1 Predator was an unmanned aerial vehicle developed by General Atomics for the USAF in the 1990s. General Atomics was selected for the development of the aircraft in 1994 with its first flight on the 3rd July 1994 at El Mirage Airfield in the Mojave Desert. The aircraft had a lot of similarities to the General Atomics Gnat 750, which was a reconnaissance drone developed in the late 1980s.

The aircraft participated in different exercises in 1995 as part of its ACTD (Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration). In this stage, it was flown by members of the US Navy, Air Force, Army, and the Marine Corps with successful results.

This lead to the decision to deploy the MQ-1 in 1995 as part of the peacekeeping missions in the Balkans, thus it was deployed in Albania and former Yugoslavia. Its first deployment en masse was during the Afghan Campaign of 2001. At that point, the US had 60 Predators in service but 20 were lost in action during the campaign. However, problems soon started to appear, since most of these losses were not due to enemy fire, instead they happened because of reliability problems. The aircraft struggled with icy and cold weather conditions, which are normal in the mountains of Afghanistan. Thus the aircraft's development continued, incorporating a de-icing system, upgraded turbocharger, and improved avionics in what was called the Block 1 or MQ-1L.

Its armed version, known as RQ-1 in the development process, incorporated pylons for guided ammunitions such as laser guided missiles, like the Hellfire ATGM. Several tests were carried during the early 2000s with good results and several simulated targets being destroyed by the Predator. These Predator models were put into service with the designation MQ-1A. Other tests occurred during 2001 after the CIA advocated to use the Hellfire armed version of the Predator to target high value targets like Osama Bin Laden. However these tests showed mixed results, because of issues with the missile fuze that were later resolved. This version however was only deployed to Afghanistan after the September 11 incident.

The Predator as a platform showed good results, being the main UAV in service with the USAF and other branches of the US Armed Forces until the arrival of the MQ-9 Reaper, which was itself a further development of the MQ-1. The aircraft was deployed to the Balkans, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Syria and several other locations where it was used not only in military operations but also as a counter-terrorist weapon. Because of its unmanned nature, it was safer to use drones like the Predator to find and later execute any target without risking the lives of pilots or ground forces in the process.

The Predator remained in limited US service up to 2018 when it was completely retired in favour of the heavier and more capable MQ-9 Reaper, but it didn't only fly for the US Armed Forces. The Italian Armed Forces signed a contract for 6 x MQ-1A Predator drones in 2002 with the units being delivered in 2004. These units were used in Afghanistan, Djibouti and Iraq with more than 8,000 hours of flight. Licenses for its sale were also given to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Morocco and Egypt.

== 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 ==


* [[wikipedia:General_Atomics_MQ-1_Predator|[Wikipedia] General Atomics MQ-1 Predator]]

{{AirManufacturer General Atomics}}
{{Strike UCAVs}}

MQ-1

2023-12-10T15:24:55Z

U90120302: /* Pros and cons */

{{Specs-Card
|code=ucav_mq_1_predator
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an American strike UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle), developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. Developed from the General Atomics Gnat 750, the "Predator", as the MQ-1 was named, would go on to serve in many conflicts around the world, including in Bosnia, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, to name a few. It served extensively from 1995 until 2018, after which it was replaced by the MQ-9 "Reaper".

The Predator was introduced in [[Update "Drone Age"]]. All nations besides Russia and China gain access to this vehicle to spawn for 750 spawn points; this is not a researchable vehicle. This vehicle is useful in cases where other CAS is unavailable or unable to be used, for example in night battles. With 2 Hellfires, the arsenal is limited, though the drone can be useful to locate enemy vehicles once dry of missiles, with the excellent optical zoom and thermals.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 1,000 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
|-
| 220 || 220 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.0 || 22.0 || 2.5 || 2.5 || 250
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || X || X || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 390  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

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

=== 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.''

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

{{main|AGM-114K Hellfire II}}

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

* 2 x AGM-114K Hellfire II 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:'''

* High altitude spawn, above most radars at its battle rating
* The Hellfire missiles are accurate and have a long range
* Can carry a lot of fuel

'''Cons:'''

* Limited payload, only two missiles
* Slow

== History ==

The MQ-1 Predator was an unmanned aerial vehicle developed by General Atomics for the USAF in the 1990s. General Atomics was selected for the development of the aircraft in 1994 with its first flight on the 3rd July 1994 at El Mirage Airfield in the Mojave Desert. The aircraft had a lot of similarities to the General Atomics Gnat 750, which was a reconnaissance drone developed in the late 1980s.

The aircraft participated in different exercises in 1995 as part of its ACTD (Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration). In this stage, it was flown by members of the US Navy, Air Force, Army, and the Marine Corps with successful results.

This lead to the decision to deploy the MQ-1 in 1995 as part of the peacekeeping missions in the Balkans, thus it was deployed in Albania and former Yugoslavia. Its first deployment en masse was during the Afghan Campaign of 2001. At that point, the US had 60 Predators in service but 20 were lost in action during the campaign. However, problems soon started to appear, since most of these losses were not due to enemy fire, instead they happened because of reliability problems. The aircraft struggled with icy and cold weather conditions, which are normal in the mountains of Afghanistan. Thus the aircraft's development continued, incorporating a de-icing system, upgraded turbocharger, and improved avionics in what was called the Block 1 or MQ-1L.

Its armed version, known as RQ-1 in the development process, incorporated pylons for guided ammunitions such as laser guided missiles, like the Hellfire ATGM. Several tests were carried during the early 2000s with good results and several simulated targets being destroyed by the Predator. These Predator models were put into service with the designation MQ-1A. Other tests occurred during 2001 after the CIA advocated to use the Hellfire armed version of the Predator to target high value targets like Osama Bin Laden. However these tests showed mixed results, because of issues with the missile fuze that were later resolved. This version however was only deployed to Afghanistan after the September 11 incident.

The Predator as a platform showed good results, being the main UAV in service with the USAF and other branches of the US Armed Forces until the arrival of the MQ-9 Reaper, which was itself a further development of the MQ-1. The aircraft was deployed to the Balkans, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Syria and several other locations where it was used not only in military operations but also as a counter-terrorist weapon. Because of its unmanned nature, it was safer to use drones like the Predator to find and later execute any target without risking the lives of pilots or ground forces in the process.

The Predator remained in limited US service up to 2018 when it was completely retired in favour of the heavier and more capable MQ-9 Reaper, but it didn't only fly for the US Armed Forces. The Italian Armed Forces signed a contract for 6 x MQ-1A Predator drones in 2002 with the units being delivered in 2004. These units were used in Afghanistan, Djibouti and Iraq with more than 8,000 hours of flight. Licenses for its sale were also given to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Morocco and Egypt.

== 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 ==


* [[wikipedia:General_Atomics_MQ-1_Predator|[Wikipedia] General Atomics MQ-1 Predator]]

{{AirManufacturer General Atomics}}
{{Strike UCAVs}}

MQ-1

2023-12-10T15:23:45Z

U90120302: /* Pros and cons */ Although the previous point stated it, the Cons of the MQ-1 are that it is highly vulnerable to AA vehicles.

{{Specs-Card
|code=ucav_mq_1_predator
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an American strike UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle), developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. Developed from the General Atomics Gnat 750, the "Predator", as the MQ-1 was named, would go on to serve in many conflicts around the world, including in Bosnia, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, to name a few. It served extensively from 1995 until 2018, after which it was replaced by the MQ-9 "Reaper".

The Predator was introduced in [[Update "Drone Age"]]. All nations besides Russia and China gain access to this vehicle to spawn for 750 spawn points; this is not a researchable vehicle. This vehicle is useful in cases where other CAS is unavailable or unable to be used, for example in night battles. With 2 Hellfires, the arsenal is limited, though the drone can be useful to locate enemy vehicles once dry of missiles, with the excellent optical zoom and thermals.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 1,000 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
|-
| 220 || 220 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.0 || 22.0 || 2.5 || 2.5 || 250
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || X || X || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 390  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

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

=== 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.''

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

{{main|AGM-114K Hellfire II}}

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

* 2 x AGM-114K Hellfire II 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:'''

* Spawns close to battlefield
* The Hellfire missiles are accurate and have a long range
* Can carry a lot of fuel
* Extremely high visibility with its targeting pod and thermals
* Able to spot targets from extreme distances

'''Cons:'''

* Limited payload, only two missiles
* Slow
* Extremely weak against AA vehicles and highly visible on RADAR.

== History ==

The MQ-1 Predator was an unmanned aerial vehicle developed by General Atomics for the USAF in the 1990s. General Atomics was selected for the development of the aircraft in 1994 with its first flight on the 3rd July 1994 at El Mirage Airfield in the Mojave Desert. The aircraft had a lot of similarities to the General Atomics Gnat 750, which was a reconnaissance drone developed in the late 1980s.

The aircraft participated in different exercises in 1995 as part of its ACTD (Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration). In this stage, it was flown by members of the US Navy, Air Force, Army, and the Marine Corps with successful results.

This lead to the decision to deploy the MQ-1 in 1995 as part of the peacekeeping missions in the Balkans, thus it was deployed in Albania and former Yugoslavia. Its first deployment en masse was during the Afghan Campaign of 2001. At that point, the US had 60 Predators in service but 20 were lost in action during the campaign. However, problems soon started to appear, since most of these losses were not due to enemy fire, instead they happened because of reliability problems. The aircraft struggled with icy and cold weather conditions, which are normal in the mountains of Afghanistan. Thus the aircraft's development continued, incorporating a de-icing system, upgraded turbocharger, and improved avionics in what was called the Block 1 or MQ-1L.

Its armed version, known as RQ-1 in the development process, incorporated pylons for guided ammunitions such as laser guided missiles, like the Hellfire ATGM. Several tests were carried during the early 2000s with good results and several simulated targets being destroyed by the Predator. These Predator models were put into service with the designation MQ-1A. Other tests occurred during 2001 after the CIA advocated to use the Hellfire armed version of the Predator to target high value targets like Osama Bin Laden. However these tests showed mixed results, because of issues with the missile fuze that were later resolved. This version however was only deployed to Afghanistan after the September 11 incident.

The Predator as a platform showed good results, being the main UAV in service with the USAF and other branches of the US Armed Forces until the arrival of the MQ-9 Reaper, which was itself a further development of the MQ-1. The aircraft was deployed to the Balkans, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Syria and several other locations where it was used not only in military operations but also as a counter-terrorist weapon. Because of its unmanned nature, it was safer to use drones like the Predator to find and later execute any target without risking the lives of pilots or ground forces in the process.

The Predator remained in limited US service up to 2018 when it was completely retired in favour of the heavier and more capable MQ-9 Reaper, but it didn't only fly for the US Armed Forces. The Italian Armed Forces signed a contract for 6 x MQ-1A Predator drones in 2002 with the units being delivered in 2004. These units were used in Afghanistan, Djibouti and Iraq with more than 8,000 hours of flight. Licenses for its sale were also given to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Morocco and Egypt.

== Media ==
[[File:MQ-1 Drone Wallpaper.jpg|thumb|MQ-1 UCAV, equipped with two AGM-114 'Hellfire' missiles.]]
''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 ==


* [[wikipedia:General_Atomics_MQ-1_Predator|[Wikipedia] General Atomics MQ-1 Predator]]

{{AirManufacturer General Atomics}}
{{Strike UCAVs}}

MQ-1

2023-12-10T15:21:50Z

U90120302: /* Pros and cons */ The targeting pod should be stressed as it is very useful and better than most helicopters at its BR rating.

{{Specs-Card
|code=ucav_mq_1_predator
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an American strike UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle), developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. Developed from the General Atomics Gnat 750, the "Predator", as the MQ-1 was named, would go on to serve in many conflicts around the world, including in Bosnia, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, to name a few. It served extensively from 1995 until 2018, after which it was replaced by the MQ-9 "Reaper".

The Predator was introduced in [[Update "Drone Age"]]. All nations besides Russia and China gain access to this vehicle to spawn for 750 spawn points; this is not a researchable vehicle. This vehicle is useful in cases where other CAS is unavailable or unable to be used, for example in night battles. With 2 Hellfires, the arsenal is limited, though the drone can be useful to locate enemy vehicles once dry of missiles, with the excellent optical zoom and thermals.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 1,000 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
|-
| 220 || 220 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.0 || 22.0 || 2.5 || 2.5 || 250
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || X || X || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 390  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

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

=== 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.''

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

{{main|AGM-114K Hellfire II}}

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

* 2 x AGM-114K Hellfire II 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:'''

* High altitude spawn, above most radars at its battle rating
* The Hellfire missiles are accurate and have a long range
* Can carry a lot of fuel
* Extremely high visibility with its targeting pod and thermals
* Able to spot targets from extreme distances

'''Cons:'''

* Limited payload, only two missiles
* Slow

== History ==

The MQ-1 Predator was an unmanned aerial vehicle developed by General Atomics for the USAF in the 1990s. General Atomics was selected for the development of the aircraft in 1994 with its first flight on the 3rd July 1994 at El Mirage Airfield in the Mojave Desert. The aircraft had a lot of similarities to the General Atomics Gnat 750, which was a reconnaissance drone developed in the late 1980s.

The aircraft participated in different exercises in 1995 as part of its ACTD (Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration). In this stage, it was flown by members of the US Navy, Air Force, Army, and the Marine Corps with successful results.

This lead to the decision to deploy the MQ-1 in 1995 as part of the peacekeeping missions in the Balkans, thus it was deployed in Albania and former Yugoslavia. Its first deployment en masse was during the Afghan Campaign of 2001. At that point, the US had 60 Predators in service but 20 were lost in action during the campaign. However, problems soon started to appear, since most of these losses were not due to enemy fire, instead they happened because of reliability problems. The aircraft struggled with icy and cold weather conditions, which are normal in the mountains of Afghanistan. Thus the aircraft's development continued, incorporating a de-icing system, upgraded turbocharger, and improved avionics in what was called the Block 1 or MQ-1L.

Its armed version, known as RQ-1 in the development process, incorporated pylons for guided ammunitions such as laser guided missiles, like the Hellfire ATGM. Several tests were carried during the early 2000s with good results and several simulated targets being destroyed by the Predator. These Predator models were put into service with the designation MQ-1A. Other tests occurred during 2001 after the CIA advocated to use the Hellfire armed version of the Predator to target high value targets like Osama Bin Laden. However these tests showed mixed results, because of issues with the missile fuze that were later resolved. This version however was only deployed to Afghanistan after the September 11 incident.

The Predator as a platform showed good results, being the main UAV in service with the USAF and other branches of the US Armed Forces until the arrival of the MQ-9 Reaper, which was itself a further development of the MQ-1. The aircraft was deployed to the Balkans, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Syria and several other locations where it was used not only in military operations but also as a counter-terrorist weapon. Because of its unmanned nature, it was safer to use drones like the Predator to find and later execute any target without risking the lives of pilots or ground forces in the process.

The Predator remained in limited US service up to 2018 when it was completely retired in favour of the heavier and more capable MQ-9 Reaper, but it didn't only fly for the US Armed Forces. The Italian Armed Forces signed a contract for 6 x MQ-1A Predator drones in 2002 with the units being delivered in 2004. These units were used in Afghanistan, Djibouti and Iraq with more than 8,000 hours of flight. Licenses for its sale were also given to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Morocco and Egypt.

== Media ==
[[File:MQ-1 Drone Wallpaper.jpg|thumb|MQ-1 UCAV, equipped with two AGM-114 'Hellfire' missiles.]]
''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 ==


* [[wikipedia:General_Atomics_MQ-1_Predator|[Wikipedia] General Atomics MQ-1 Predator]]

{{AirManufacturer General Atomics}}
{{Strike UCAVs}}

MQ-1

2023-12-10T15:19:49Z

U90120302: /* Media */ Adding a well-known image of the MQ-1 showcasing its armaments.

{{Specs-Card
|code=ucav_mq_1_predator
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
}}

== Description ==

The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an American strike UCAV (Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle), developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems. Developed from the General Atomics Gnat 750, the "Predator", as the MQ-1 was named, would go on to serve in many conflicts around the world, including in Bosnia, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya, to name a few. It served extensively from 1995 until 2018, after which it was replaced by the MQ-9 "Reaper".

The Predator was introduced in [[Update "Drone Age"]]. All nations besides Russia and China gain access to this vehicle to spawn for 750 spawn points; this is not a researchable vehicle. This vehicle is useful in cases where other CAS is unavailable or unable to be used, for example in night battles. With 2 Hellfires, the arsenal is limited, though the drone can be useful to locate enemy vehicles once dry of missiles, with the excellent optical zoom and thermals.

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


{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
! colspan="2" | Max speed (km/h at 1,000 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
|-
| 220 || 220 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.0 || 22.0 || 2.5 || 2.5 || 250
|-
|}

==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
|-
! colspan="5" | Features
|-
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
|-
| X || X || X || 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 !! + !! -
|-
| 390  || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || N/A || ~__ || ~__
|-
|}

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

=== 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.''

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

{{main|AGM-114K Hellfire II}}

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

* 2 x AGM-114K Hellfire II 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:'''

* High altitude spawn, above most radars at its battle rating
* The Hellfire missiles are accurate and have a long range
* Can carry a lot of fuel

'''Cons:'''

* Limited payload, only two missiles
* Slow

== History ==

The MQ-1 Predator was an unmanned aerial vehicle developed by General Atomics for the USAF in the 1990s. General Atomics was selected for the development of the aircraft in 1994 with its first flight on the 3rd July 1994 at El Mirage Airfield in the Mojave Desert. The aircraft had a lot of similarities to the General Atomics Gnat 750, which was a reconnaissance drone developed in the late 1980s.

The aircraft participated in different exercises in 1995 as part of its ACTD (Advanced Concept Technology Demonstration). In this stage, it was flown by members of the US Navy, Air Force, Army, and the Marine Corps with successful results.

This lead to the decision to deploy the MQ-1 in 1995 as part of the peacekeeping missions in the Balkans, thus it was deployed in Albania and former Yugoslavia. Its first deployment en masse was during the Afghan Campaign of 2001. At that point, the US had 60 Predators in service but 20 were lost in action during the campaign. However, problems soon started to appear, since most of these losses were not due to enemy fire, instead they happened because of reliability problems. The aircraft struggled with icy and cold weather conditions, which are normal in the mountains of Afghanistan. Thus the aircraft's development continued, incorporating a de-icing system, upgraded turbocharger, and improved avionics in what was called the Block 1 or MQ-1L.

Its armed version, known as RQ-1 in the development process, incorporated pylons for guided ammunitions such as laser guided missiles, like the Hellfire ATGM. Several tests were carried during the early 2000s with good results and several simulated targets being destroyed by the Predator. These Predator models were put into service with the designation MQ-1A. Other tests occurred during 2001 after the CIA advocated to use the Hellfire armed version of the Predator to target high value targets like Osama Bin Laden. However these tests showed mixed results, because of issues with the missile fuze that were later resolved. This version however was only deployed to Afghanistan after the September 11 incident.

The Predator as a platform showed good results, being the main UAV in service with the USAF and other branches of the US Armed Forces until the arrival of the MQ-9 Reaper, which was itself a further development of the MQ-1. The aircraft was deployed to the Balkans, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Yemen, Libya, Syria and several other locations where it was used not only in military operations but also as a counter-terrorist weapon. Because of its unmanned nature, it was safer to use drones like the Predator to find and later execute any target without risking the lives of pilots or ground forces in the process.

The Predator remained in limited US service up to 2018 when it was completely retired in favour of the heavier and more capable MQ-9 Reaper, but it didn't only fly for the US Armed Forces. The Italian Armed Forces signed a contract for 6 x MQ-1A Predator drones in 2002 with the units being delivered in 2004. These units were used in Afghanistan, Djibouti and Iraq with more than 8,000 hours of flight. Licenses for its sale were also given to Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Morocco and Egypt.

== Media ==
[[File:MQ-1 Drone Wallpaper.jpg|thumb|MQ-1 UCAV, equipped with two AGM-114 'Hellfire' missiles.]]
''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 ==


* [[wikipedia:General_Atomics_MQ-1_Predator|[Wikipedia] General Atomics MQ-1 Predator]]

{{AirManufacturer General Atomics}}
{{Strike UCAVs}}