War Thunder Wiki - User contributions [en]

Lightning F.6

2020-04-10T17:45:51Z

U98021478: Edited Pros and Cons - the original claimed the electric lighting had a below average climb rate - this contradicts the figures given, and an earlier statement, which commends the Lightning's climb rate.

{{Specs-Card|code=lightning_f6}}

== Description ==

[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{Break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} British jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 12,192 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
| 2,215 || 2,200 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 27.9 || 28.2 || 150.7 || 141.4 || rowspan="2" | 850
|-
! Upgraded
| 2,386 || 2,290 || 24.4 || 26.0 || 195.3 || 172.0
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="7" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
|-
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 720 || 463 || ~10 || ~6
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
|-
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
|-
| < 850 || < 700 || < 700 || N/A
|-
|}

==== Engine performance ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine
! colspan="3" | Aircraft mass
|-
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
! colspan="1" | Basic Mass (no fuel) || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
|-
| colspan="2" | Rolls-Royce Avon Mk.302 || 2
| colspan="1" | 14,092 kg || colspan="2" | 437 kg/m2
|-
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
! colspan="2" | Mass with fuel (no external load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff Weight
|-
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
! 5m fuel || 18m fuel
|-
| 1,310 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
| 15,353 kg || 18,632 kg || 19,000 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="3" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
|-
! Condition || 100% || WEP
! 5m fuel || 18m fuel || MTOW
|-
| ''Stationary'' || 5,620 kgf || 7,390 kgf
| 0.96 || 0.79 || 0.78
|-
| ''Maximum'' || 5,700 kgf || 7,400 kgf
| 0.96 || 0.79 || 0.78
|-
|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


In line with its role as a high-performance interceptor aircraft the Lightning F.6 has no armoured plating or bulletproof glass, such additions would have increased the weight of the aircraft, while offering no real benefit for it's intended role.

Most of the inside of the wings (including the flaps) consists of fuel tanks, fuel is also stored in the ventral tank. The top engine is mounted above and to the rear of the bottom engine, this leaves it exposed to enemy fire; on the flip side the bottom engine is shielded from enemy fire by the top engine and wing fuel tanks, this makes is surprisingly resilient to damage, it is not uncommon for it to even continue functioning after the aircraft has been hit by a missile (although the rest of the aircraft will be well and truly broken afterwards).

The large belly tank and high wings of the Lightning mean it is able to survive belly landings very well.

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

{{main|ADEN (30 mm)}}

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

* 2 x 30 mm ADEN cannon, mounted in bell tank (120 RPG = 240 total)

=== Suspended armament===

{{main|Firestreak|Red Top}}

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

* Without load
* 2 x Firestreak missiles
* 2 x Red Top missiles

== Usage in battles ==


In combined battles, pilots of the {{PAGENAME}} may find themselves unable to deal much damage against ground vehicles, especially without the use of rockets, anti-tank missiles, or bombs. As such, this fighter is better suited to dealing with enemy air targets such as helicopters, which are plentiful at the Lightning's battle rating.

Although it faces challenges there, air realistic battles are where the Lightning truly belongs. The F.6 is able to use its Red Top missiles to dispatch enemies from a distance. Best practice with the missiles is to fire when there is about a 1.5 km gap between the F.6 and the enemy aircraft. This gap gives the missile time to lock on its target and track the enemy. One downside to the Red Tops is that they are not particularly fast compared to other missiles at its tier and may have trouble manoeuvring to catch an enemy aircraft travelling at top speed.

The {{PAGENAME}} handles well at subsonic speeds, although dogfights at those speeds are not common at this battle rating. Flying slowly leaves the pilot vulnerable to nearby enemies. Among those enemies may be the [[MiG-21 F-13]], which the Lightning can often out-dogfight and the [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4C]], which the Lightning has an extremely difficult time trying to out-dogfight. The Lightning just doesn't have the energy retention that the Phantom does.

Keeping this in mind, it is advised that pilots use this plane as part of a team, rather than as an attempted solo carry. It is recommended that they climb to higher altitude early on in the match and by gaining as much energy as possible before dumping it in dogfight manoeuvres.

Enemy planes that the Lightning F.6 is well-suited to take on in a fight are the [[Mitsubishi T-2]], the [[F-100D]], and the [[MiG-19 (Family)|Mig-19s]] of all variants.

=== Modules ===
The Lightning is a difficult aircraft to use when stock. If you particularly dislike the stock ADEN cannons then you may wish to priorities the cannon upgrades, however generally it is advisable to focus on flight performance and missile upgrades. Once you gain the ability to unlock tier 2 modifications you should probably priorities the Firestreaks, they are far from the best missiles in the game, but they can be useful; after that the new boosters modification is worth getting to improve the general handling of the aircraft. For tier 3 modifications you should get the wing repair and engine upgrades (unless you really want the ADEN upgrades). For tier 4 you will probably want the Red Top missiles for all round better performance than the Firestreaks. After this you can research the rest of the upgrades according to personal preference.
{| class="wikitable"
!Tier
! colspan="2" |Flight performance
!Survivability
! colspan="2" |Weaponry
|-
|I
|Fuselage repair
|
|
|Offensive 30 mm
|
|-
|II
|New boosters
|Compressor
|Airframe
|
|Firestreak
|-
|III
|Wings repair
|Engine
|
|New 30 mm cannons
|
|-
|IV
|G-Suit
|
|Cover
|
|Red Top
|}
=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Surprisingly good turn rate between 800 - 1,000 km/h indicated airspeed (IAS)
* Red Top missiles have good seeker gimballing, high-G overload, and an all-aspect capability with radar lock-on (slaving)
* Armed with a pair of powerful ADEN cannons
* Good climb rate and acceleration

'''Cons:'''

* A large target for enemy aircraft to target
* Pulls a high angle of attack and loses speed in turns
* Below average roll rate
* Limited armament selection, shoehorned more into an air-to-air combat role
* Sacrifices maneuverability for sheer speed
* Relatively low top speed (1,280 km/h IAS at sea level)

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

== Media ==

{{Youtube-gallery|CDl68kOR9ig|'''The Shooting Range #191''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 04:56 discusses the Lightning F.6.}}

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

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

== External links ==


* [[wt:en/news/6615-development-lightning-f-6-saddled-to-a-skyrocket-en|[Devblog] Lightning F.6: Saddled to a Skyrocket!]]
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/479190-lightning-f6/ [Forums<nowiki>]</nowiki> Aircraft Data Sheets: Lightning F.6]

{{AirManufacturer EEC}}
{{Britain jet aircraft}}

Bf 109 E-3

2020-04-01T07:34:49Z

U98021478:

{{Specs-Card|code=bf-109e-3}}
{{About
| about = German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = Bf 109 (Family)
}}

== Description ==

[[File:GarageImage Bf109E3.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

After having experienced the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']], players will rejoice upon unlocking the E-3. While essentially the same plane, the E-3 overcomes the inadequate firepower (compared to other aircraft of similar BR) of the E-1. With two wing-mounted [[MG FF (20 mm)|MG FF’s]] with 60 rounds each, the plane has a deadly punch. Players that did well in the E-1 and learned their 109 trade will be able to make great use of their new Emil. Fighting in the E-3 is essentially the same in the E-1 with the difference that a pilot can now actually reliably dispatch enemies in a short burst. ''Visit the [[Bf 109 E-1|Bf 109 E-1 page]] for more information.''

Remaining a great energy fighter against its historical opposition, the E-3 is somewhat troubled by the fact that it often faces mid-to-later-war planes such as the [[P-47D-25|P-47D]]. To engage these, make sure to have a clear energy advantage; if attacked, fly defensively and attempt to bleed the enemy's speed while pulling them down. The Bf 109 E-3 is often regarded as a poor turner, a reputation coming out of the fact that its main rival, the [[Spitfire_(Family)|Spitfire]], simply did it better. However, with combat flaps, the E-3 is a respectable turner able to out-manoeuvre most planes that outperform it in firepower or other factors.

The main armament is identical to that of the [[Fw 190 A-1]]. However, there is one critical difference. The MG FF is '''not''' the [[MG_FF/M (20 mm)|MGFF/M]], which can fire ''Minengeschoss'' shells. ''Minengeschoss'' have thin shells, allowing more incendiary material to be used; however, these very same characteristics prevent these shells from being fired from older MG FF versions. Thus, the MgFF/Ms are far more powerful than the MG FFs. Unfortunately, this means that the E-3’s cannons compare poorly with the later MgFF/Ms.

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 545 || 535 || 11,000 || 21.2 || 21.6 || 12.5 || 14.5 || 376
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 594 || 570 || 11,000 || 19.0 || 20.0 || 21.5 || 17.8 || 376
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! +
! -
|-
| 789 || 320 || 500 || ~12 || ~10
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
|-
! Ailerons (km/h)
! Rudder (km/h)
! Elevators (km/h)
! Radiator (km/h)
|-
| < 370 || < 370 || < 520 || > 250
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 4,800 m || 905 hp || 1,086 hp
|-

|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


* No armour plating
* No armour glazing
* Critical components located in front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls, cooling)

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

{{main|MG FF (20 mm)|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}

The Bf 109 E3 is armed with:

* 2 x 20 mm MG FF cannons (60 rpg = 120 total)
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

The two machine guns are arranged in the nose of the aircraft just in front of the pilot, while the two cannons are placed with one in each wing.
=== Suspended armament ===

{{main|SC50JA (50 kg)|SC250JA (250 kg)}}

The Bf 109 E3 can be outfitted with the following ordinance:

* Without load
* 4 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (200 kg total)
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb (250 kg total)


== Usage in the battles ==

[[File:Cockpit_Bf109e3.jpg|250px|thumb|left|Click to enlarge]]
Just as the with the [[Bf 109 E-1|''E-1'']], new players should adopt a hit and run tactic with the Bf 109s (also known as Boom and Run). While often called a Boom & Zoom aircraft, the 109s are not dedicated Boom & Zoomers, and many other aircraft such as the Fw 190 do it much better. While it is true that a pure Boom and Zooming approach can be used for the 109s, limiting oneself to this enormously undermines plane efficiency. That said, the 109s do build up speed quickly in a dive, and they have a respectable zoom climb that ends in a strongly sustained climb at ~270 km/h (optimal climbing speed 260, and dash 280 km/h). Doing so will often give the player the maximum speed or altitude advantage they can have over their chosen target. A straight-up bounce, with a short, extend from the target and a slowly increasing climb leading into an Immelmann, tends to work best for rookie pilots. Remember to check the six and surroundings during the climb and just before diving back onto the target.

With mounting experience on the side of the player, the energy fighting abilities of the Bf 109 E-3 come to the forefront. Fluid and speedy transitions between altitude and speed, together with well-timed uses of flaps, throttle, and manoeuvres, enable the Emil to quickly change engagement in its favour.

When firing at enemies, be aware that the 20 mm cannons only hold a 60 round drum magazine each. They empty quick, and many a new pilot has seen themselves on pitifully low ammunition after only one attack run. Once the cannons are empty, the E-3 will be hard-pressed to destroy any aircraft. Do not waste the cannon ammunition on ground targets and when firing at planes, fire in short, controlled, and well-aimed bursts. Luckily, the E-3 holds 1000 rounds in each of its two [[MG_17 (7.92 mm)|MG 17]]s. Use these if inclined to spray and pray or are about to engage ground targets.

The E-3 can load either 4 x 50 kg or 1 x 250 kg either. Unless wanting to fly at a severe disadvantage, do not use the bombs unless it is necessary to win a match, for example after refuelling/restocking at the base. The bomb load is nowhere near large enough to make a fighter bombing trip worth it.

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

===Modules===
{| class="wikitable"
! Tier
! Flight performance
! Survivability
! Weaponry
|-
| I
| Fuselage Repair, Radiator
|
| Offensive 7 mm, ETC 50/VIIId
|-
| II
| Compressor
| Airframe
| New 7 mm MGs
|-
| III
| Wing Repair, Engine
|
| Offensive 20 mm, ETC 500/IXb
|-
| IV
| Engine Injection
| Cover
| New 20 mm Cannons
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good acceleration
* Good rate of climb
* Good continuous turn rate
* Good roll rate
* Good sustained turn rate
* Plenty of LMG ammo
* Can perform negative G manoeuvres
* Better cockpit visibility than [[Bf 109 F-4|Bf 109Fs]]

'''Cons:'''

* Less than average instantaneous turn rate
* Control stiffening above 400 IAS (kph)
* Low cannon ammo
* Weak low-velocity cannons compared to Hispano, [[MG 151/20 (20 mm)|MG 151]], etc
* Relatively poor durability
* Harsh matchmaking

== History ==

The Bf 109 E-3 became the mainstream fighter of the German Luftwaffe between 1940 to 1941. Seeing some action in 1939, the E-3 was the most produced aircraft of the Emil series and much appreciated by pilots. While pilot comfort was not what one might call outstanding, German pilots held the Emil in high regard, due to its performance and offensive bite. Its improvements over the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']] were a strengthening of the structural integrity and the integration of two-wing mounted MG FFs in the wings, replacing two MG 17s the earlier Emil carried. In order to save the 20 mm shell cases, the wing had a small empty container in which used casings were thrown into after firing of the weapon.

Powered by a DB 601 Aa with a performance of 1175 hp upon takeoff, the plane was initially regarded as a technological secret. This was due to the use of a direct petrol injection system that allowed the engine to run when experiencing negative Gs. The frequent use of a Split-S to evade earlier [[Spitfire_(Family)|''Spitfire'']] and [[Hurricane_(Family)|''Hurricanes'']] using carburettor engines shows the distinct advantage such a system gave. While it worked as a trump card for some time, the nature of war ensured that Allied forces soon had access to downed Bf 109 E-3s and their engine configuration. The first Bf 109 E-3 to fall into enemy hands happened as early as November 1939 near Woerth, France.

The E-3 was one of the first planes that saw widespread exportation. Bulgaria, Japan, Switzerland, and Spain are some of the countries that purchased the Emil.

The E-3 was used extensively in the Battle of Britain, eventually being replaced by the [[Bf 109 F-4|''Friedrich'']].

=== In-game description ===
"The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a single-seat monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe before and during WWII. It was used as a fighter, interceptor, high-altitude interceptor, fighter-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft.

The Bf 109 E variant, or ""Emil"", was in fact the first truly mass-produced variant of the venerable Messerschmitt Bf 109 family. Powered by a new Daimler-Benz DB 601A direct fuel injection engine, the Emil also had a redesigned supercharger. However, most importantly, the engine proved much more reliable than its predecessors. First production variants reached front-line units in early 1939. The Emil was armed with two 7.9mm machine guns in the engine housing and two 20mm cannon in the wings."

== Media ==
Here is an excellent video by You-tuber Messer Smitty on flying the Bf 109 E in War Thunder:

http://War Thunder: Bf 109 E Helpful Beginner Tips, Guide, and Information

;Aircraft skins.

* [http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23bf109e3 Skins and camouflages for the "Bf 109 E-3" from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Mitsubishi [[A6M (Family)|A6M]]
* Bell [[P-39 (Family)|P-39]] Airacobra
* Curtiss [[P-36 (Family)|P-36]]
* Curtiss [[P-40 (Family)|P-40]]
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
* Fiat [[G.55 serie 1|G.55]]
* Focke-Wulf [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]
* Grumman [[F4F (Family)|F4F]] Wildcat
* Grumman [[F6F (Family)|F6F]] Hellcat
* Hawker [[Hurricane (Family)|Hurricane]]
* Heinkel [[He 112 (Family)|He 112]]
* [[IAR-81C|IAR-81]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
* Lavochkin [[LaGG-3 (Family)|LaGG-3]]
* Macchi [[C.202]]
* Macchi [[C.205 serie 1|C.205]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-3 (Family)|MiG-3]]
* Morane-Saulnier [[M.S.406C1|MS.406]]
* Nakajima [[Ki-43 (Family)|Ki-43]]
* North American [[P-51 (Family)|P-51]] Mustang
* Polikarpov [[I-16 (Family)|I-16]]
* Supermarine [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-9]]

== External links ==


* Radinger, Willy & Otto, Wolfgang, Messerschmitt Me 109 - Das meistgebaute Jagdflugzeug der Welt - Entwicklung, Erprobung, Technik - Bf 109A bis 109K, Aviatic Verlag, Oberhachingen: 2011
* [http://www.messerschmitt-bf109.de/web.php?lang=de&auth=e&name=bf109b&versionscategory=6 "Falcon's Messerschmitt Bf 109 Hangar" Bf 109E subpage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Messerschmitt_Bf_109_variants#Bf_109E English Wikipedia: "Messerschmitt Bf 109 variants – Bf 109 E"]
* [http://kurfurst.org/#Emil "Performance Information Bf 109E"]

{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
{{Germany fighters}}

Bf 109 E-3

2020-04-01T07:33:22Z

U98021478: I have added a link to a youtube video by user Messer Smitty on using the Bf 103 E-3 in War Thunder. I have cited the person who uploaded it - I hope that that is Ok.

{{Specs-Card|code=bf-109e-3}}
{{About
| about = German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = Bf 109 (Family)
}}

== Description ==

[[File:GarageImage Bf109E3.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

After having experienced the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']], players will rejoice upon unlocking the E-3. While essentially the same plane, the E-3 overcomes the inadequate firepower (compared to other aircraft of similar BR) of the E-1. With two wing-mounted [[MG FF (20 mm)|MG FF’s]] with 60 rounds each, the plane has a deadly punch. Players that did well in the E-1 and learned their 109 trade will be able to make great use of their new Emil. Fighting in the E-3 is essentially the same in the E-1 with the difference that a pilot can now actually reliably dispatch enemies in a short burst. ''Visit the [[Bf 109 E-1|Bf 109 E-1 page]] for more information.''

Remaining a great energy fighter against its historical opposition, the E-3 is somewhat troubled by the fact that it often faces mid-to-later-war planes such as the [[P-47D-25|P-47D]]. To engage these, make sure to have a clear energy advantage; if attacked, fly defensively and attempt to bleed the enemy's speed while pulling them down. The Bf 109 E-3 is often regarded as a poor turner, a reputation coming out of the fact that its main rival, the [[Spitfire_(Family)|Spitfire]], simply did it better. However, with combat flaps, the E-3 is a respectable turner able to out-manoeuvre most planes that outperform it in firepower or other factors.

The main armament is identical to that of the [[Fw 190 A-1]]. However, there is one critical difference. The MG FF is '''not''' the [[MG_FF/M (20 mm)|MGFF/M]], which can fire ''Minengeschoss'' shells. ''Minengeschoss'' have thin shells, allowing more incendiary material to be used; however, these very same characteristics prevent these shells from being fired from older MG FF versions. Thus, the MgFF/Ms are far more powerful than the MG FFs. Unfortunately, this means that the E-3’s cannons compare poorly with the later MgFF/Ms.

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 545 || 535 || 11,000 || 21.2 || 21.6 || 12.5 || 14.5 || 376
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 594 || 570 || 11,000 || 19.0 || 20.0 || 21.5 || 17.8 || 376
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! +
! -
|-
| 789 || 320 || 500 || ~12 || ~10
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
|-
! Ailerons (km/h)
! Rudder (km/h)
! Elevators (km/h)
! Radiator (km/h)
|-
| < 370 || < 370 || < 520 || > 250
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 4,800 m || 905 hp || 1,086 hp
|-

|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


* No armour plating
* No armour glazing
* Critical components located in front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls, cooling)

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

{{main|MG FF (20 mm)|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}

The Bf 109 E3 is armed with:

* 2 x 20 mm MG FF cannons (60 rpg = 120 total)
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

The two machine guns are arranged in the nose of the aircraft just in front of the pilot, while the two cannons are placed with one in each wing.
=== Suspended armament ===

{{main|SC50JA (50 kg)|SC250JA (250 kg)}}

The Bf 109 E3 can be outfitted with the following ordinance:

* Without load
* 4 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (200 kg total)
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb (250 kg total)


== Usage in the battles ==

[[File:Cockpit_Bf109e3.jpg|250px|thumb|left|Click to enlarge]]
Just as the with the [[Bf 109 E-1|''E-1'']], new players should adopt a hit and run tactic with the Bf 109s (also known as Boom and Run). While often called a Boom & Zoom aircraft, the 109s are not dedicated Boom & Zoomers, and many other aircraft such as the Fw 190 do it much better. While it is true that a pure Boom and Zooming approach can be used for the 109s, limiting oneself to this enormously undermines plane efficiency. That said, the 109s do build up speed quickly in a dive, and they have a respectable zoom climb that ends in a strongly sustained climb at ~270 km/h (optimal climbing speed 260, and dash 280 km/h). Doing so will often give the player the maximum speed or altitude advantage they can have over their chosen target. A straight-up bounce, with a short, extend from the target and a slowly increasing climb leading into an Immelmann, tends to work best for rookie pilots. Remember to check the six and surroundings during the climb and just before diving back onto the target.

With mounting experience on the side of the player, the energy fighting abilities of the Bf 109 E-3 come to the forefront. Fluid and speedy transitions between altitude and speed, together with well-timed uses of flaps, throttle, and manoeuvres, enable the Emil to quickly change engagement in its favour.

When firing at enemies, be aware that the 20 mm cannons only hold a 60 round drum magazine each. They empty quick, and many a new pilot has seen themselves on pitifully low ammunition after only one attack run. Once the cannons are empty, the E-3 will be hard-pressed to destroy any aircraft. Do not waste the cannon ammunition on ground targets and when firing at planes, fire in short, controlled, and well-aimed bursts. Luckily, the E-3 holds 1000 rounds in each of its two [[MG_17 (7.92 mm)|MG 17]]s. Use these if inclined to spray and pray or are about to engage ground targets.

The E-3 can load either 4 x 50 kg or 1 x 250 kg either. Unless wanting to fly at a severe disadvantage, do not use the bombs unless it is necessary to win a match, for example after refuelling/restocking at the base. The bomb load is nowhere near large enough to make a fighter bombing trip worth it.

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

===Modules===
{| class="wikitable"
! Tier
! Flight performance
! Survivability
! Weaponry
|-
| I
| Fuselage Repair, Radiator
|
| Offensive 7 mm, ETC 50/VIIId
|-
| II
| Compressor
| Airframe
| New 7 mm MGs
|-
| III
| Wing Repair, Engine
|
| Offensive 20 mm, ETC 500/IXb
|-
| IV
| Engine Injection
| Cover
| New 20 mm Cannons
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good acceleration
* Good rate of climb
* Good continuous turn rate
* Good roll rate
* Good sustained turn rate
* Plenty of LMG ammo
* Can perform negative G manoeuvres
* Better cockpit visibility than [[Bf 109 F-4|Bf 109Fs]]

'''Cons:'''

* Less than average instantaneous turn rate
* Control stiffening above 400 IAS (kph)
* Low cannon ammo
* Weak low-velocity cannons compared to Hispano, [[MG 151/20 (20 mm)|MG 151]], etc
* Relatively poor durability
* Harsh matchmaking

== History ==

The Bf 109 E-3 became the mainstream fighter of the German Luftwaffe between 1940 to 1941. Seeing some action in 1939, the E-3 was the most produced aircraft of the Emil series and much appreciated by pilots. While pilot comfort was not what one might call outstanding, German pilots held the Emil in high regard, due to its performance and offensive bite. Its improvements over the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']] were a strengthening of the structural integrity and the integration of two-wing mounted MG FFs in the wings, replacing two MG 17s the earlier Emil carried. In order to save the 20 mm shell cases, the wing had a small empty container in which used casings were thrown into after firing of the weapon.

Powered by a DB 601 Aa with a performance of 1175 hp upon takeoff, the plane was initially regarded as a technological secret. This was due to the use of a direct petrol injection system that allowed the engine to run when experiencing negative Gs. The frequent use of a Split-S to evade earlier [[Spitfire_(Family)|''Spitfire'']] and [[Hurricane_(Family)|''Hurricanes'']] using carburettor engines shows the distinct advantage such a system gave. While it worked as a trump card for some time, the nature of war ensured that Allied forces soon had access to downed Bf 109 E-3s and their engine configuration. The first Bf 109 E-3 to fall into enemy hands happened as early as November 1939 near Woerth, France.

The E-3 was one of the first planes that saw widespread exportation. Bulgaria, Japan, Switzerland, and Spain are some of the countries that purchased the Emil.

The E-3 was used extensively in the Battle of Britain, eventually being replaced by the [[Bf 109 F-4|''Friedrich'']].

=== In-game description ===
"The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a single-seat monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe before and during WWII. It was used as a fighter, interceptor, high-altitude interceptor, fighter-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft.

The Bf 109 E variant, or ""Emil"", was in fact the first truly mass-produced variant of the venerable Messerschmitt Bf 109 family. Powered by a new Daimler-Benz DB 601A direct fuel injection engine, the Emil also had a redesigned supercharger. However, most importantly, the engine proved much more reliable than its predecessors. First production variants reached front-line units in early 1939. The Emil was armed with two 7.9mm machine guns in the engine housing and two 20mm cannon in the wings."

== Media ==
Here is an excellent video by You-tuber Messer Smitty on flying the Bf 109 E in War Thunder:

http://War Thunder: Bf 109 E Helpful Beginner Tips, Guide, and Information

;Aircraft skin.

* [http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23bf109e3 Skins and camouflages for the "Bf 109 E-3" from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Mitsubishi [[A6M (Family)|A6M]]
* Bell [[P-39 (Family)|P-39]] Airacobra
* Curtiss [[P-36 (Family)|P-36]]
* Curtiss [[P-40 (Family)|P-40]]
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
* Fiat [[G.55 serie 1|G.55]]
* Focke-Wulf [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]
* Grumman [[F4F (Family)|F4F]] Wildcat
* Grumman [[F6F (Family)|F6F]] Hellcat
* Hawker [[Hurricane (Family)|Hurricane]]
* Heinkel [[He 112 (Family)|He 112]]
* [[IAR-81C|IAR-81]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
* Lavochkin [[LaGG-3 (Family)|LaGG-3]]
* Macchi [[C.202]]
* Macchi [[C.205 serie 1|C.205]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-3 (Family)|MiG-3]]
* Morane-Saulnier [[M.S.406C1|MS.406]]
* Nakajima [[Ki-43 (Family)|Ki-43]]
* North American [[P-51 (Family)|P-51]] Mustang
* Polikarpov [[I-16 (Family)|I-16]]
* Supermarine [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-9]]

== External links ==


* Radinger, Willy & Otto, Wolfgang, Messerschmitt Me 109 - Das meistgebaute Jagdflugzeug der Welt - Entwicklung, Erprobung, Technik - Bf 109A bis 109K, Aviatic Verlag, Oberhachingen: 2011
* [http://www.messerschmitt-bf109.de/web.php?lang=de&auth=e&name=bf109b&versionscategory=6 "Falcon's Messerschmitt Bf 109 Hangar" Bf 109E subpage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Messerschmitt_Bf_109_variants#Bf_109E English Wikipedia: "Messerschmitt Bf 109 variants – Bf 109 E"]
* [http://kurfurst.org/#Emil "Performance Information Bf 109E"]

{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
{{Germany fighters}}

Bf 109 E-3

2020-04-01T07:26:23Z

U98021478:

{{Specs-Card|code=bf-109e-3}}
{{About
| about = German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = Bf 109 (Family)
}}

== Description ==

[[File:GarageImage Bf109E3.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

After having experienced the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']], players will rejoice upon unlocking the E-3. While essentially the same plane, the E-3 overcomes the inadequate firepower (compared to other aircraft of similar BR) of the E-1. With two wing-mounted [[MG FF (20 mm)|MG FF’s]] with 60 rounds each, the plane has a deadly punch. Players that did well in the E-1 and learned their 109 trade will be able to make great use of their new Emil. Fighting in the E-3 is essentially the same in the E-1 with the difference that a pilot can now actually reliably dispatch enemies in a short burst. ''Visit the [[Bf 109 E-1|Bf 109 E-1 page]] for more information.''

Remaining a great energy fighter against its historical opposition, the E-3 is somewhat troubled by the fact that it often faces mid-to-later-war planes such as the [[P-47D-25|P-47D]]. To engage these, make sure to have a clear energy advantage; if attacked, fly defensively and attempt to bleed the enemy's speed while pulling them down. The Bf 109 E-3 is often regarded as a poor turner, a reputation coming out of the fact that its main rival, the [[Spitfire_(Family)|Spitfire]], simply did it better. However, with combat flaps, the E-3 is a respectable turner able to out-manoeuvre most planes that outperform it in firepower or other factors.

The main armament is identical to that of the [[Fw 190 A-1]]. However, there is one critical difference. The MG FF is '''not''' the [[MG_FF/M (20 mm)|MGFF/M]], which can fire ''Minengeschoss'' shells. ''Minengeschoss'' have thin shells, allowing more incendiary material to be used; however, these very same characteristics prevent these shells from being fired from older MG FF versions. Thus, the MgFF/Ms are far more powerful than the MG FFs. Unfortunately, this means that the E-3’s cannons compare poorly with the later MgFF/Ms.

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 545 || 535 || 11,000 || 21.2 || 21.6 || 12.5 || 14.5 || 376
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 594 || 570 || 11,000 || 19.0 || 20.0 || 21.5 || 17.8 || 376
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! +
! -
|-
| 789 || 320 || 500 || ~12 || ~10
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
|-
! Ailerons (km/h)
! Rudder (km/h)
! Elevators (km/h)
! Radiator (km/h)
|-
| < 370 || < 370 || < 520 || > 250
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 4,800 m || 905 hp || 1,086 hp
|-

|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


* No armour plating
* No armour glazing
* Critical components located in front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls, cooling)

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

{{main|MG FF (20 mm)|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}

The Bf 109 E3 is armed with:

* 2 x 20 mm MG FF cannons (60 rpg = 120 total)
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

The two machine guns are arranged in the nose of the aircraft just in front of the pilot, while the two cannons are placed with one in each wing.
=== Suspended armament ===

{{main|SC50JA (50 kg)|SC250JA (250 kg)}}

The Bf 109 E3 can be outfitted with the following ordinance:

* Without load
* 4 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (200 kg total)
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb (250 kg total)


== Usage in the battles ==

[[File:Cockpit_Bf109e3.jpg|250px|thumb|left|Click to enlarge]]
Just as the with the [[Bf 109 E-1|''E-1'']], new players should adopt a hit and run tactic with the Bf 109s (also known as Boom and Run). While often called a Boom & Zoom aircraft, the 109s are not dedicated Boom & Zoomers, and many other aircraft such as the Fw 190 do it much better. While it is true that a pure Boom and Zooming approach can be used for the 109s, limiting oneself to this enormously undermines plane efficiency. That said, the 109s do build up speed quickly in a dive, and they have a respectable zoom climb that ends in a strongly sustained climb at ~270 km/h (optimal climbing speed 260, and dash 280 km/h). Doing so will often give the player the maximum speed or altitude advantage they can have over their chosen target. A straight-up bounce, with a short, extend from the target and a slowly increasing climb leading into an Immelmann, tends to work best for rookie pilots. Remember to check the six and surroundings during the climb and just before diving back onto the target.

With mounting experience on the side of the player, the energy fighting abilities of the Bf 109 E-3 come to the forefront. Fluid and speedy transitions between altitude and speed, together with well-timed uses of flaps, throttle, and manoeuvres, enable the Emil to quickly change engagement in its favour.

When firing at enemies, be aware that the 20 mm cannons only hold a 60 round drum magazine each. They empty quick, and many a new pilot has seen themselves on pitifully low ammunition after only one attack run. Once the cannons are empty, the E-3 will be hard-pressed to destroy any aircraft. Do not waste the cannon ammunition on ground targets and when firing at planes, fire in short, controlled, and well-aimed bursts. Luckily, the E-3 holds 1000 rounds in each of its two [[MG_17 (7.92 mm)|MG 17]]s. Use these if inclined to spray and pray or are about to engage ground targets.

The E-3 can load either 4 x 50 kg or 1 x 250 kg either. Unless wanting to fly at a severe disadvantage, do not use the bombs unless it is necessary to win a match, for example after refuelling/restocking at the base. The bomb load is nowhere near large enough to make a fighter bombing trip worth it.

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

===Modules===
{| class="wikitable"
! Tier
! Flight performance
! Survivability
! Weaponry
|-
| I
| Fuselage Repair, Radiator
|
| Offensive 7 mm, ETC 50/VIIId
|-
| II
| Compressor
| Airframe
| New 7 mm MGs
|-
| III
| Wing Repair, Engine
|
| Offensive 20 mm, ETC 500/IXb
|-
| IV
| Engine Injection
| Cover
| New 20 mm Cannons
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good acceleration
* Good rate of climb
* Good continuous turn rate
* Good roll rate
* Good sustained turn rate
* Plenty of LMG ammo
* Can perform negative G manoeuvres
* Better cockpit visibility than [[Bf 109 F-4|Bf 109Fs]]

'''Cons:'''

* Less than average instantaneous turn rate
* Control stiffening above 400 IAS (kph)
* Low cannon ammo
* Weak low-velocity cannons compared to Hispano, [[MG 151/20 (20 mm)|MG 151]], etc
* Relatively poor durability
* Harsh matchmaking

== History ==

The Bf 109 E-3 became the mainstream fighter of the German Luftwaffe between 1940 to 1941. Seeing some action in 1939, the E-3 was the most produced aircraft of the Emil series and much appreciated by pilots. While pilot comfort was not what one might call outstanding, German pilots held the Emil in high regard, due to its performance and offensive bite. Its improvements over the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']] were a strengthening of the structural integrity and the integration of two-wing mounted MG FFs in the wings, replacing two MG 17s the earlier Emil carried. In order to save the 20 mm shell cases, the wing had a small empty container in which used casings were thrown into after firing of the weapon.

Powered by a DB 601 Aa with a performance of 1175 hp upon takeoff, the plane was initially regarded as a technological secret. This was due to the use of a direct petrol injection system that allowed the engine to run when experiencing negative Gs. The frequent use of a Split-S to evade earlier [[Spitfire_(Family)|''Spitfire'']] and [[Hurricane_(Family)|''Hurricanes'']] using carburettor engines shows the distinct advantage such a system gave. While it worked as a trump card for some time, the nature of war ensured that Allied forces soon had access to downed Bf 109 E-3s and their engine configuration. The first Bf 109 E-3 to fall into enemy hands happened as early as November 1939 near Woerth, France.

The E-3 was one of the first planes that saw widespread exportation. Bulgaria, Japan, Switzerland, and Spain are some of the countries that purchased the Emil.

The E-3 was used extensively in the Battle of Britain, eventually being replaced by the [[Bf 109 F-4|''Friedrich'']].

=== In-game description ===
"The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a single-seat monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe before and during WWII. It was used as a fighter, interceptor, high-altitude interceptor, fighter-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft.

The Bf 109 E variant, or ""Emil"", was in fact the first truly mass-produced variant of the venerable Messerschmitt Bf 109 family. Powered by a new Daimler-Benz DB 601A direct fuel injection engine, the Emil also had a redesigned supercharger. However, most importantly, the engine proved much more reliable than its predecessors. First production variants reached front-line units in early 1939. The Emil was armed with two 7.9mm machine guns in the engine housing and two 20mm cannon in the wings."

== Media ==
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''

;Aircraft skins

* [http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23bf109e3 Skins and camouflages for the "Bf 109 E-3" from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Mitsubishi [[A6M (Family)|A6M]]
* Bell [[P-39 (Family)|P-39]] Airacobra
* Curtiss [[P-36 (Family)|P-36]]
* Curtiss [[P-40 (Family)|P-40]]
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
* Fiat [[G.55 serie 1|G.55]]
* Focke-Wulf [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]
* Grumman [[F4F (Family)|F4F]] Wildcat
* Grumman [[F6F (Family)|F6F]] Hellcat
* Hawker [[Hurricane (Family)|Hurricane]]
* Heinkel [[He 112 (Family)|He 112]]
* [[IAR-81C|IAR-81]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
* Lavochkin [[LaGG-3 (Family)|LaGG-3]]
* Macchi [[C.202]]
* Macchi [[C.205 serie 1|C.205]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-3 (Family)|MiG-3]]
* Morane-Saulnier [[M.S.406C1|MS.406]]
* Nakajima [[Ki-43 (Family)|Ki-43]]
* North American [[P-51 (Family)|P-51]] Mustang
* Polikarpov [[I-16 (Family)|I-16]]
* Supermarine [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-9]]

== External links ==


* Radinger, Willy & Otto, Wolfgang, Messerschmitt Me 109 - Das meistgebaute Jagdflugzeug der Welt - Entwicklung, Erprobung, Technik - Bf 109A bis 109K, Aviatic Verlag, Oberhachingen: 2011
* [http://www.messerschmitt-bf109.de/web.php?lang=de&auth=e&name=bf109b&versionscategory=6 "Falcon's Messerschmitt Bf 109 Hangar" Bf 109E subpage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Messerschmitt_Bf_109_variants#Bf_109E English Wikipedia: "Messerschmitt Bf 109 variants – Bf 109 E"]
* [http://kurfurst.org/#Emil "Performance Information Bf 109E"]

{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
{{Germany fighters}}

Bf 109 E-3

2020-04-01T07:24:35Z

U98021478: /* Media */

{{Specs-Card|code=bf-109e-3}}
{{About
| about = German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = Bf 109 (Family)
}}

== Description ==

[[File:GarageImage Bf109E3.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

After having experienced the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']], players will rejoice upon unlocking the E-3. While essentially the same plane, the E-3 overcomes the inadequate firepower (compared to other aircraft of similar BR) of the E-1. With two wing-mounted [[MG FF (20 mm)|MG FF’s]] with 60 rounds each, the plane has a deadly punch. Players that did well in the E-1 and learned their 109 trade will be able to make great use of their new Emil. Fighting in the E-3 is essentially the same in the E-1 with the difference that a pilot can now actually reliably dispatch enemies in a short burst. ''Visit the [[Bf 109 E-1|Bf 109 E-1 page]] for more information.''

Remaining a great energy fighter against its historical opposition, the E-3 is somewhat troubled by the fact that it often faces mid-to-later-war planes such as the [[P-47D-25|P-47D]]. To engage these, make sure to have a clear energy advantage; if attacked, fly defensively and attempt to bleed the enemy's speed while pulling them down. The Bf 109 E-3 is often regarded as a poor turner, a reputation coming out of the fact that its main rival, the [[Spitfire_(Family)|Spitfire]], simply did it better. However, with combat flaps, the E-3 is a respectable turner able to out-manoeuvre most planes that outperform it in firepower or other factors.

The main armament is identical to that of the [[Fw 190 A-1]]. However, there is one critical difference. The MG FF is '''not''' the [[MG_FF/M (20 mm)|MGFF/M]], which can fire ''Minengeschoss'' shells. ''Minengeschoss'' have thin shells, allowing more incendiary material to be used; however, these very same characteristics prevent these shells from being fired from older MG FF versions. Thus, the MgFF/Ms are far more powerful than the MG FFs. Unfortunately, this means that the E-3’s cannons compare poorly with the later MgFF/Ms.

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 545 || 535 || 11,000 || 21.2 || 21.6 || 12.5 || 14.5 || 376
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 594 || 570 || 11,000 || 19.0 || 20.0 || 21.5 || 17.8 || 376
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! +
! -
|-
| 789 || 320 || 500 || ~12 || ~10
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
|-
! Ailerons (km/h)
! Rudder (km/h)
! Elevators (km/h)
! Radiator (km/h)
|-
| < 370 || < 370 || < 520 || > 250
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 4,800 m || 905 hp || 1,086 hp
|-

|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


* No armour plating
* No armour glazing
* Critical components located in front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls, cooling)

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

{{main|MG FF (20 mm)|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}

The Bf 109 E3 is armed with:

* 2 x 20 mm MG FF cannons (60 rpg = 120 total)
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

The two machine guns are arranged in the nose of the aircraft just in front of the pilot, while the two cannons are placed with one in each wing.
=== Suspended armament ===

{{main|SC50JA (50 kg)|SC250JA (250 kg)}}

The Bf 109 E3 can be outfitted with the following ordinance:

* Without load
* 4 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (200 kg total)
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb (250 kg total)


== Usage in the battles ==

[[File:Cockpit_Bf109e3.jpg|250px|thumb|left|Click to enlarge]]
Just as the with the [[Bf 109 E-1|''E-1'']], new players should adopt a hit and run tactic with the Bf 109s (also known as Boom and Run). While often called a Boom & Zoom aircraft, the 109s are not dedicated Boom & Zoomers, and many other aircraft such as the Fw 190 do it much better. While it is true that a pure Boom and Zooming approach can be used for the 109s, limiting oneself to this enormously undermines plane efficiency. That said, the 109s do build up speed quickly in a dive, and they have a respectable zoom climb that ends in a strongly sustained climb at ~270 km/h (optimal climbing speed 260, and dash 280 km/h). Doing so will often give the player the maximum speed or altitude advantage they can have over their chosen target. A straight-up bounce, with a short, extend from the target and a slowly increasing climb leading into an Immelmann, tends to work best for rookie pilots. Remember to check the six and surroundings during the climb and just before diving back onto the target.

With mounting experience on the side of the player, the energy fighting abilities of the Bf 109 E-3 come to the forefront. Fluid and speedy transitions between altitude and speed, together with well-timed uses of flaps, throttle, and manoeuvres, enable the Emil to quickly change engagement in its favour.

When firing at enemies, be aware that the 20 mm cannons only hold a 60 round drum magazine each. They empty quick, and many a new pilot has seen themselves on pitifully low ammunition after only one attack run. Once the cannons are empty, the E-3 will be hard-pressed to destroy any aircraft. Do not waste the cannon ammunition on ground targets and when firing at planes, fire in short, controlled, and well-aimed bursts. Luckily, the E-3 holds 1000 rounds in each of its two [[MG_17 (7.92 mm)|MG 17]]s. Use these if inclined to spray and pray or are about to engage ground targets.

The E-3 can load either 4 x 50 kg or 1 x 250 kg either. Unless wanting to fly at a severe disadvantage, do not use the bombs unless it is necessary to win a match, for example after refuelling/restocking at the base. The bomb load is nowhere near large enough to make a fighter bombing trip worth it.

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

===Modules===
{| class="wikitable"
! Tier
! Flight performance
! Survivability
! Weaponry
|-
| I
| Fuselage Repair, Radiator
|
| Offensive 7 mm, ETC 50/VIIId
|-
| II
| Compressor
| Airframe
| New 7 mm MGs
|-
| III
| Wing Repair, Engine
|
| Offensive 20 mm, ETC 500/IXb
|-
| IV
| Engine Injection
| Cover
| New 20 mm Cannons
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good acceleration
* Good rate of climb
* Good continuous turn rate
* Good roll rate
* Good sustained turn rate
* Plenty of LMG ammo
* Can perform negative G manoeuvres
* Better cockpit visibility than [[Bf 109 F-4|Bf 109Fs]]

'''Cons:'''

* Less than average instantaneous turn rate
* Control stiffening above 400 IAS (kph)
* Low cannon ammo
* Weak low-velocity cannons compared to Hispano, [[MG 151/20 (20 mm)|MG 151]], etc
* Relatively poor durability
* Harsh matchmaking

== History ==

The Bf 109 E-3 became the mainstream fighter of the German Luftwaffe between 1940 to 1941. Seeing some action in 1939, the E-3 was the most produced aircraft of the Emil series and much appreciated by pilots. While pilot comfort was not what one might call outstanding, German pilots held the Emil in high regard, due to its performance and offensive bite. Its improvements over the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']] were a strengthening of the structural integrity and the integration of two-wing mounted MG FFs in the wings, replacing two MG 17s the earlier Emil carried. In order to save the 20 mm shell cases, the wing had a small empty container in which used casings were thrown into after firing of the weapon.

Powered by a DB 601 Aa with a performance of 1175 hp upon takeoff, the plane was initially regarded as a technological secret. This was due to the use of a direct petrol injection system that allowed the engine to run when experiencing negative Gs. The frequent use of a Split-S to evade earlier [[Spitfire_(Family)|''Spitfire'']] and [[Hurricane_(Family)|''Hurricanes'']] using carburettor engines shows the distinct advantage such a system gave. While it worked as a trump card for some time, the nature of war ensured that Allied forces soon had access to downed Bf 109 E-3s and their engine configuration. The first Bf 109 E-3 to fall into enemy hands happened as early as November 1939 near Woerth, France.

The E-3 was one of the first planes that saw widespread exportation. Bulgaria, Japan, Switzerland, and Spain are some of the countries that purchased the Emil.

The E-3 was used extensively in the Battle of Britain, eventually being replaced by the [[Bf 109 F-4|''Friedrich'']].

=== In-game description ===
"The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a single-seat monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe before and during WWII. It was used as a fighter, interceptor, high-altitude interceptor, fighter-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft.

The Bf 109 E variant, or ""Emil"", was in fact the first truly mass-produced variant of the venerable Messerschmitt Bf 109 family. Powered by a new Daimler-Benz DB 601A direct fuel injection engine, the Emil also had a redesigned supercharger. However, most importantly, the engine proved much more reliable than its predecessors. First production variants reached front-line units in early 1939. The Emil was armed with two 7.9mm machine guns in the engine housing and two 20mm cannon in the wings."

== Media ==
<iframe width="646" height="363" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CA_fZTI-ikI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>
;Aircraft skins

* [http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23bf109e3 Skins and camouflages for the "Bf 109 E-3" from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Mitsubishi [[A6M (Family)|A6M]]
* Bell [[P-39 (Family)|P-39]] Airacobra
* Curtiss [[P-36 (Family)|P-36]]
* Curtiss [[P-40 (Family)|P-40]]
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
* Fiat [[G.55 serie 1|G.55]]
* Focke-Wulf [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]
* Grumman [[F4F (Family)|F4F]] Wildcat
* Grumman [[F6F (Family)|F6F]] Hellcat
* Hawker [[Hurricane (Family)|Hurricane]]
* Heinkel [[He 112 (Family)|He 112]]
* [[IAR-81C|IAR-81]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
* Lavochkin [[LaGG-3 (Family)|LaGG-3]]
* Macchi [[C.202]]
* Macchi [[C.205 serie 1|C.205]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-3 (Family)|MiG-3]]
* Morane-Saulnier [[M.S.406C1|MS.406]]
* Nakajima [[Ki-43 (Family)|Ki-43]]
* North American [[P-51 (Family)|P-51]] Mustang
* Polikarpov [[I-16 (Family)|I-16]]
* Supermarine [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-9]]

== External links ==


* Radinger, Willy & Otto, Wolfgang, Messerschmitt Me 109 - Das meistgebaute Jagdflugzeug der Welt - Entwicklung, Erprobung, Technik - Bf 109A bis 109K, Aviatic Verlag, Oberhachingen: 2011
* [http://www.messerschmitt-bf109.de/web.php?lang=de&auth=e&name=bf109b&versionscategory=6 "Falcon's Messerschmitt Bf 109 Hangar" Bf 109E subpage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Messerschmitt_Bf_109_variants#Bf_109E English Wikipedia: "Messerschmitt Bf 109 variants – Bf 109 E"]
* [http://kurfurst.org/#Emil "Performance Information Bf 109E"]

{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
{{Germany fighters}}

Bf 109 E-3

2020-04-01T07:23:26Z

U98021478: /* Media */

{{Specs-Card|code=bf-109e-3}}
{{About
| about = German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
| link = Bf 109 (Family)
}}

== Description ==

[[File:GarageImage Bf109E3.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

After having experienced the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']], players will rejoice upon unlocking the E-3. While essentially the same plane, the E-3 overcomes the inadequate firepower (compared to other aircraft of similar BR) of the E-1. With two wing-mounted [[MG FF (20 mm)|MG FF’s]] with 60 rounds each, the plane has a deadly punch. Players that did well in the E-1 and learned their 109 trade will be able to make great use of their new Emil. Fighting in the E-3 is essentially the same in the E-1 with the difference that a pilot can now actually reliably dispatch enemies in a short burst. ''Visit the [[Bf 109 E-1|Bf 109 E-1 page]] for more information.''

Remaining a great energy fighter against its historical opposition, the E-3 is somewhat troubled by the fact that it often faces mid-to-later-war planes such as the [[P-47D-25|P-47D]]. To engage these, make sure to have a clear energy advantage; if attacked, fly defensively and attempt to bleed the enemy's speed while pulling them down. The Bf 109 E-3 is often regarded as a poor turner, a reputation coming out of the fact that its main rival, the [[Spitfire_(Family)|Spitfire]], simply did it better. However, with combat flaps, the E-3 is a respectable turner able to out-manoeuvre most planes that outperform it in firepower or other factors.

The main armament is identical to that of the [[Fw 190 A-1]]. However, there is one critical difference. The MG FF is '''not''' the [[MG_FF/M (20 mm)|MGFF/M]], which can fire ''Minengeschoss'' shells. ''Minengeschoss'' have thin shells, allowing more incendiary material to be used; however, these very same characteristics prevent these shells from being fired from older MG FF versions. Thus, the MgFF/Ms are far more powerful than the MG FFs. Unfortunately, this means that the E-3’s cannons compare poorly with the later MgFF/Ms.

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 545 || 535 || 11,000 || 21.2 || 21.6 || 12.5 || 14.5 || 376
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed (km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb (meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
|-
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
! AB
! RB
|-
| 594 || 570 || 11,000 || 19.0 || 20.0 || 21.5 || 17.8 || 376
|-
|}

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

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap (km/h)
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
|-
! +
! -
|-
| 789 || 320 || 500 || ~12 || ~10
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
|-
! Ailerons (km/h)
! Rudder (km/h)
! Elevators (km/h)
! Radiator (km/h)
|-
| < 370 || < 370 || < 520 || > 250
|-
|}

{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
|-
! Optimal altitude
! 100% Engine power
! WEP Engine power
|-
| 4,800 m || 905 hp || 1,086 hp
|-

|}

=== Survivability and armour ===


* No armour plating
* No armour glazing
* Critical components located in front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls, cooling)

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

{{main|MG FF (20 mm)|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}

The Bf 109 E3 is armed with:

* 2 x 20 mm MG FF cannons (60 rpg = 120 total)
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

The two machine guns are arranged in the nose of the aircraft just in front of the pilot, while the two cannons are placed with one in each wing.
=== Suspended armament ===

{{main|SC50JA (50 kg)|SC250JA (250 kg)}}

The Bf 109 E3 can be outfitted with the following ordinance:

* Without load
* 4 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (200 kg total)
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb (250 kg total)


== Usage in the battles ==

[[File:Cockpit_Bf109e3.jpg|250px|thumb|left|Click to enlarge]]
Just as the with the [[Bf 109 E-1|''E-1'']], new players should adopt a hit and run tactic with the Bf 109s (also known as Boom and Run). While often called a Boom & Zoom aircraft, the 109s are not dedicated Boom & Zoomers, and many other aircraft such as the Fw 190 do it much better. While it is true that a pure Boom and Zooming approach can be used for the 109s, limiting oneself to this enormously undermines plane efficiency. That said, the 109s do build up speed quickly in a dive, and they have a respectable zoom climb that ends in a strongly sustained climb at ~270 km/h (optimal climbing speed 260, and dash 280 km/h). Doing so will often give the player the maximum speed or altitude advantage they can have over their chosen target. A straight-up bounce, with a short, extend from the target and a slowly increasing climb leading into an Immelmann, tends to work best for rookie pilots. Remember to check the six and surroundings during the climb and just before diving back onto the target.

With mounting experience on the side of the player, the energy fighting abilities of the Bf 109 E-3 come to the forefront. Fluid and speedy transitions between altitude and speed, together with well-timed uses of flaps, throttle, and manoeuvres, enable the Emil to quickly change engagement in its favour.

When firing at enemies, be aware that the 20 mm cannons only hold a 60 round drum magazine each. They empty quick, and many a new pilot has seen themselves on pitifully low ammunition after only one attack run. Once the cannons are empty, the E-3 will be hard-pressed to destroy any aircraft. Do not waste the cannon ammunition on ground targets and when firing at planes, fire in short, controlled, and well-aimed bursts. Luckily, the E-3 holds 1000 rounds in each of its two [[MG_17 (7.92 mm)|MG 17]]s. Use these if inclined to spray and pray or are about to engage ground targets.

The E-3 can load either 4 x 50 kg or 1 x 250 kg either. Unless wanting to fly at a severe disadvantage, do not use the bombs unless it is necessary to win a match, for example after refuelling/restocking at the base. The bomb load is nowhere near large enough to make a fighter bombing trip worth it.

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

===Modules===
{| class="wikitable"
! Tier
! Flight performance
! Survivability
! Weaponry
|-
| I
| Fuselage Repair, Radiator
|
| Offensive 7 mm, ETC 50/VIIId
|-
| II
| Compressor
| Airframe
| New 7 mm MGs
|-
| III
| Wing Repair, Engine
|
| Offensive 20 mm, ETC 500/IXb
|-
| IV
| Engine Injection
| Cover
| New 20 mm Cannons
|-
|}

=== Pros and cons ===


'''Pros:'''

* Good acceleration
* Good rate of climb
* Good continuous turn rate
* Good roll rate
* Good sustained turn rate
* Plenty of LMG ammo
* Can perform negative G manoeuvres
* Better cockpit visibility than [[Bf 109 F-4|Bf 109Fs]]

'''Cons:'''

* Less than average instantaneous turn rate
* Control stiffening above 400 IAS (kph)
* Low cannon ammo
* Weak low-velocity cannons compared to Hispano, [[MG 151/20 (20 mm)|MG 151]], etc
* Relatively poor durability
* Harsh matchmaking

== History ==

The Bf 109 E-3 became the mainstream fighter of the German Luftwaffe between 1940 to 1941. Seeing some action in 1939, the E-3 was the most produced aircraft of the Emil series and much appreciated by pilots. While pilot comfort was not what one might call outstanding, German pilots held the Emil in high regard, due to its performance and offensive bite. Its improvements over the [[Bf 109 E-1|''Bf 109 E-1'']] were a strengthening of the structural integrity and the integration of two-wing mounted MG FFs in the wings, replacing two MG 17s the earlier Emil carried. In order to save the 20 mm shell cases, the wing had a small empty container in which used casings were thrown into after firing of the weapon.

Powered by a DB 601 Aa with a performance of 1175 hp upon takeoff, the plane was initially regarded as a technological secret. This was due to the use of a direct petrol injection system that allowed the engine to run when experiencing negative Gs. The frequent use of a Split-S to evade earlier [[Spitfire_(Family)|''Spitfire'']] and [[Hurricane_(Family)|''Hurricanes'']] using carburettor engines shows the distinct advantage such a system gave. While it worked as a trump card for some time, the nature of war ensured that Allied forces soon had access to downed Bf 109 E-3s and their engine configuration. The first Bf 109 E-3 to fall into enemy hands happened as early as November 1939 near Woerth, France.

The E-3 was one of the first planes that saw widespread exportation. Bulgaria, Japan, Switzerland, and Spain are some of the countries that purchased the Emil.

The E-3 was used extensively in the Battle of Britain, eventually being replaced by the [[Bf 109 F-4|''Friedrich'']].

=== In-game description ===
"The Messerschmitt Bf 109 was a single-seat monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe before and during WWII. It was used as a fighter, interceptor, high-altitude interceptor, fighter-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft.

The Bf 109 E variant, or ""Emil"", was in fact the first truly mass-produced variant of the venerable Messerschmitt Bf 109 family. Powered by a new Daimler-Benz DB 601A direct fuel injection engine, the Emil also had a redesigned supercharger. However, most importantly, the engine proved much more reliable than its predecessors. First production variants reached front-line units in early 1939. The Emil was armed with two 7.9mm machine guns in the engine housing and two 20mm cannon in the wings."

== Media ==
''<iframe width="646" height="363" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CA_fZTI-ikI" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>''

;Aircraft skins

* [http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23bf109e3 Skins and camouflages for the "Bf 109 E-3" from live.warthunder.com.]

== See also ==


;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

* Mitsubishi [[A6M (Family)|A6M]]
* Bell [[P-39 (Family)|P-39]] Airacobra
* Curtiss [[P-36 (Family)|P-36]]
* Curtiss [[P-40 (Family)|P-40]]
* Dewoitine [[D.520]]
* Fiat [[G.55 serie 1|G.55]]
* Focke-Wulf [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190]]
* Grumman [[F4F (Family)|F4F]] Wildcat
* Grumman [[F6F (Family)|F6F]] Hellcat
* Hawker [[Hurricane (Family)|Hurricane]]
* Heinkel [[He 112 (Family)|He 112]]
* [[IAR-81C|IAR-81]]
* Kawasaki [[Ki-61 (Family)|Ki-61]]
* Lavochkin [[LaGG-3 (Family)|LaGG-3]]
* Macchi [[C.202]]
* Macchi [[C.205 serie 1|C.205]]
* Mikoyan-Gurevich [[MiG-3 (Family)|MiG-3]]
* Morane-Saulnier [[M.S.406C1|MS.406]]
* Nakajima [[Ki-43 (Family)|Ki-43]]
* North American [[P-51 (Family)|P-51]] Mustang
* Polikarpov [[I-16 (Family)|I-16]]
* Supermarine [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-1]]
* Yakovlev [[Yak-9]]

== External links ==


* Radinger, Willy & Otto, Wolfgang, Messerschmitt Me 109 - Das meistgebaute Jagdflugzeug der Welt - Entwicklung, Erprobung, Technik - Bf 109A bis 109K, Aviatic Verlag, Oberhachingen: 2011
* [http://www.messerschmitt-bf109.de/web.php?lang=de&auth=e&name=bf109b&versionscategory=6 "Falcon's Messerschmitt Bf 109 Hangar" Bf 109E subpage]
* [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Messerschmitt_Bf_109_variants#Bf_109E English Wikipedia: "Messerschmitt Bf 109 variants – Bf 109 E"]
* [http://kurfurst.org/#Emil "Performance Information Bf 109E"]

{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
{{Germany fighters}}