Difference between revisions of "Ki-32"

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{{Specs-Card|code=ki_32}}
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{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=ki_32
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''
+
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 +
The '''Ki-32''' was a Japanese light bomber developed in 1936 as a replacement for the Kawasaki Ki-3. The specification called for a top speed of 400 km/h at 3,000 m, ability to climb to an altitude of 3,000 m within 8 minutes, be powered by either the 825 hp Mitsubishi Ha-6 radial, 850 hp Nakajima Ha-5 radial, or 850 hp Kawasaki Ha-9-IIb liquid-cooled inline engine, and carry a maximum payload of 450 kg of bombs. Additionally, the specification also called for a single forward-firing machine gun, a rear-facing machine gun on flexible mount, and the ability to perform a 60-degree dive for dive bombing. Production ceased in 1940 with 854 built. The Ki-32 were withdrawn from front-line service in December 1941.
 +
 
 +
The Ki-32 was introduced in [[Update 1.79 "Project X"]] as the beginning of Japanese dive bomber line. The Ki-32 features a high-altitude bomber spawn, allowing it to reach bases before enemy fighters can climb to intercept it despite its low maximal speed. The single forward-mounted 7.7 mm in a wing could be used for defence as the Ki-32's manoeuvrability allows it to dictate the fight with monoplane contemporaries. The rear-mounted twin 7.7 mm machine guns allow for strong defense against the low rank planes.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
The Ki-32 also is slow even when upgraded. With a stock top speed of 395 km/h and a spaded speed of 423 km/h you will struggle to outrun most monoplanes.
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 +
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 3,950 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 +
|-
 +
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 +
|-
 +
! Stock
 +
| 408 || 397 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 14.7 || 15.2 || 5.5 || 5.5 || rowspan="2" | 300
 +
|-
 +
! Upgraded
 +
| 442 || 423 || 13.1 || 14.0 || 12.4 || 7.6
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Details ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | Features
 +
|-
 +
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
 +
|-
 +
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | Limits
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
 +
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 +
|-
 +
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 +
|-
 +
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 564 || 518 || 280 || ~12 || ~9
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 290 || < 260 || < 270 || > 312
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and 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. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
+
{{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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
One of the two major downfalls of the Ki-32 is the limited protection it has. With an open cockpit, a fuselage made of fabric and wood, and no armour, any plane with guns can shoot it down. However, as noted, the Ki-32 is amazingly manoeuvrable, increasing its survivability if one knows how to use it correctly. It also mounts 2 defensive 7.7 mm Type 89s, which at this rank is quite powerful due to its high fire rate and the large area it can cover.
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
 
 +
* Being a bomber, acquiring the 10 inch (mod 24) module should be top priority. The weak airframe means that getting the survivability modules will help you survive attacks from unwanted visitors.
 +
* New turret belts are beneficial as the gunner's stock belts contain ball ammunition which is almost useless.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|Type 89 (7.7 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 +
 
 +
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, wing-mounted (200 rpg)
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|Army Type 94 GPHE (50 kg)|Army Type 94 GPHE (100 kg)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 
 +
* 9 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (450 kg total)
 +
* 4 x 100 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (400 kg total)
  
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== Defensive armament ===
−
''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available remove this subsection.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
 +
<!-- ''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|Type 89 (7.7 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 +
 
 +
* 2 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns, dorsal turret (270 rpg = 540 total)
 +
 
 +
== 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).'' -->
 +
The first thing you will notice upon flying the Ki-32 is that it is incredibly nimble, especially in AB. It can out-turn anything that's not a biplane. A spaded Ki-32 with no bombs can out-turn early Spitfires, and a smart pilot will use this incredible manoeuvrability to their advantage. However, all this manoeuvrability comes at a dangerous cost. With no armour, a vulnerable cockpit, and a weak airframe, you cannot afford to take any damage. As such, you should avoid engagements at all costs.
 +
 
 +
As a low flying light bomber, your first priority should be bombing ground targets as bombing bases is impractical, due to your bombs dealing low amounts of damage to them. While your 9 x 50 kg bombs are efficient at destroying lightly armoured targets like armoured cars and AAA, and your 100 kg bombs can destroy light tanks, any heavily armoured target like medium and heavy tanks or destroyers will shrug them off unless you score a direct hit, which is relatively easy to do due to the Ki-32's solid bomb accuracy.
 +
 
 +
Be sure to avoid any form of confrontation. Although you can outmanoeuvre pretty much anything you face, you cannot afford to take any hits, so the best idea is to avoid engagements all-together. However, if an enemy decides that you are worthy prey, you have a few tools at your disposal. Firstly, pull turn heavy manoeuvres and try to get on their tail. While you only have a 7.7 mm machine gun, you may be able to hit critical modules or even snipe the pilot if you are accurate enough. Aim for the pilot, engine(s) and wings, as you have a larger chance of downing an enemy by aiming at these spots. If the enemy is diving on you, force them to overshoot through manoeuvres and effective rudder usage then attempt to disengage during their zoom climb.
 +
 
 +
'''Enemies worth noting are as follows:'''
  
−
== Usage in the battles ==
+
'''I-153s/I-16s''' - The Soviet biplanes and early Chaikas are universally feared planes. You can outmanoeuvre both of them, but they are quite fast for their ranks and sport 2-4 ShKAS machine guns that can mount entirely Incendiary rounds, which will shred your weak fabric and wood body in seconds. These ShKAS machine guns are arguably the best 7.62 mm guns in the game due to their high fire rate, good accuracy, powerful incendiary belts and good stopping power for their rank, so try not to get hit by any shot as they have a high possibility of critically damaging your plane, if not setting it on fire. Avoid them if possible, and if one thrusts a fight on you, seek assistance from teammates. Do not try to engage them, under any circumstances, as only one measly 7.7 mm will not be enough to kill them, and very soon, you will find yourself shot down.
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but 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).''
+
 
 +
'''D.501s/D.510s''' - The Dewoitines are exceptionally dangerous opponents. They are highly manoeuvrable, have decent speed, and are the only planes at this BR to mount a cannon, and what a cannon it is (Hispano 404). A single shot of their Hispano is enough to down your plane. However, their airframe is quite weak overall and have a very vulnerable open cockpit. If one engages with you, attempt to make him use all of his cannon rounds then try to snipe out his pilot with your gunner.
 +
 
 +
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 +
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
 +
! colspan="3" | Radiator
 +
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 +
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 +
|-
 +
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 +
|-
 +
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''
+
<!-- ''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:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Fantastic manoeuvrability; can outturn Spitfires with no bombs
 +
* Small target
 +
* Fast firing defensive armament that covers a lot of area
 +
* Minimum fuel load is 35 minutes
 +
* Bombs are very accurate
 +
* Access to a bomb sight, a rarity for single-engined bombers
 +
* Fixed landing gear makes emergency landings easier (and regular landings)
 +
* Slow speed reduces bomb dispersion from the bombsight, unlike faster bombers
 +
* Has some offensive armament unlike most bombers
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
 
  
−
== Historical part ==
+
* Weak airframe
−
''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 big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/index.php?title=Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''
+
* No armour whatsoever
 +
* Slow even after upgrades
 +
* Weak offensive armament
 +
* 4 x 100 kg bombs are useless versus heavy armour
 +
* Fuel tanks are not self-sealing
 +
* Fires will almost certainly down the plane (wood and fabric will not hold up for long)
 +
* It will most likely lose head-ons due to lack of armour and weak offensive armament
 +
* Mediocre roll rate
 +
* Offensive 7.7 mm machine gun is virtually useless other than for ground attacks (and even then, only trucks, artillery and howitzers)
 +
 
 +
== 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).'' -->
 +
The Ki-32 was developed in response to a 1936 Imperial Japanese Army specification to replace the ageing and inferior Ki-3. Both Mitsubishi and Kawasaki were requested to build two prototypes by Christmas. The specification required a top speed of 400 km/h at 3,000 m with a normal operating altitude from 2,000 to 4,000 m and the ability to climb to that height in 8 minutes. The companies needed to choose between utilizing an 825 hp Mitsubishi Ha-6 radial, an 850 hp Nakajima Ha-5 radial or an 850 hp Kawasaki Ha-9-IIb liquid-cooled inline engines.
 +
 
 +
The bomber also needed to conform to the following parameters:
 +
 
 +
* Have a normal bomb load of 300 kg
 +
* Have a maximum payload of 450 kg
 +
* One forward firing machine gun
 +
* At least one flexible rear turret
 +
* The ability to perform 60-degree dives for dive bombing
 +
* Have a fully loaded weight of less than 3,300 kg
 +
 
 +
The first Kawasaki prototype flew in 1937 and seven more prototypes were produced. The Kawasaki Ki-32 and Mitsubishi Ki-30 were virtually identical in terms of layout and performance, the main difference between the two were the engines. Mitsubishi used the Nakajima Ha-5 14-cylinder air-cooled radial engine, whereas Kawasaki opted to use their own Ha-9-IIb inline V12 engine.
 +
 
 +
The Kawasaki design encountered engine cooling problems, thus awarding the Mitsubishi Ki-30 the production order. Despite this, the need for aircraft in the Second Sino-Japanese war, which had started at full scale in July 1937, allowed the Ki-32 to enter production 12 months behind its rival. However, there were more Ki-32s built than Ki-30 despite being an inferior plane.
 +
 
 +
The Ki-32 was used extensively during the Sino-Japanese War, equipping the 3rd, 6th, 10th, 35th, 45th, 65th and 75th Sentai. It saw combat during the Battle of Nomonhan against the Soviet Union in 1938-1939. The plane saw its last combat action with the Imperial Japanese Army bombing the Commonwealth forces during the Japanese invasion of Hong Kong.
 +
 
 +
During WWII, the Ki-32 were supplied to the Manchukuo Air Force in order to replace Kawasaki's old Type 88/KDA-2 light bombers, and were the main bombers of the service through the war.
 +
 
 +
It was finally withdrawn from military service in 1942 and was re-purposed as a training plane.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ki_32 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|goszFx1uQCw|'''The Shooting Range #103''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 10:38 discusses the Ki-32.}}
  
−
== Read also ==
+
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
+
<!-- ''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;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
''ETC.''
+
 
 +
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
 +
* [[SB2U-2]] / [[SB2U-3]]
 +
* [[V-156-B1]]
 +
* [[D3A1]]
 +
* [[V-11]]
 +
* [[V-156-F]]
 +
* [[B17B]]
  
−
== Sources ==
+
== External links ==
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''page on the Wikipedia;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
 
−
* ''other literature.''
+
* [[wt:en/news/5532-development-kawasaki-ki-32-the-bomber-of-three-armies-en|[Devblog] Kawasaki Ki-32: The Bomber of Three Armies]]
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/414723-ki-32/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 +
 
 +
{{AirManufacturer Kawasaki}}
 +
{{Japan bombers}}

Latest revision as of 07:58, 9 October 2023

Ki-32
ki_32.png
GarageImage Ki-32.jpg
ArtImage Ki-32.png
Ki-32
Japan flag.png Japan
I Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
1.0 1.3 1.3
Class:
Research:2 900 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:700 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Ki-32 was a Japanese light bomber developed in 1936 as a replacement for the Kawasaki Ki-3. The specification called for a top speed of 400 km/h at 3,000 m, ability to climb to an altitude of 3,000 m within 8 minutes, be powered by either the 825 hp Mitsubishi Ha-6 radial, 850 hp Nakajima Ha-5 radial, or 850 hp Kawasaki Ha-9-IIb liquid-cooled inline engine, and carry a maximum payload of 450 kg of bombs. Additionally, the specification also called for a single forward-firing machine gun, a rear-facing machine gun on flexible mount, and the ability to perform a 60-degree dive for dive bombing. Production ceased in 1940 with 854 built. The Ki-32 were withdrawn from front-line service in December 1941.

The Ki-32 was introduced in Update 1.79 "Project X" as the beginning of Japanese dive bomber line. The Ki-32 features a high-altitude bomber spawn, allowing it to reach bases before enemy fighters can climb to intercept it despite its low maximal speed. The single forward-mounted 7.7 mm in a wing could be used for defence as the Ki-32's manoeuvrability allows it to dictate the fight with monoplane contemporaries. The rear-mounted twin 7.7 mm machine guns allow for strong defense against the low rank planes.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 3 950 m423 km/h
Turn time14 s
Max altitude7 000 m
EngineKawasaki Ha-9-2B
TypeInline
Cooling systemWater
Take-off weight4 t

The Ki-32 also is slow even when upgraded. With a stock top speed of 395 km/h and a spaded speed of 423 km/h you will struggle to outrun most monoplanes.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 3,950 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 408 397 7000 14.7 15.2 5.5 5.5 300
Upgraded 442 423 13.1 14.0 12.4 7.6

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
600 600 564 518 280 ~12 ~9
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 290 < 260 < 270 > 312

Survivability and armour

Crew2 people
Speed of destruction
Structural600 km/h
Gear600 km/h

One of the two major downfalls of the Ki-32 is the limited protection it has. With an open cockpit, a fuselage made of fabric and wood, and no armour, any plane with guns can shoot it down. However, as noted, the Ki-32 is amazingly manoeuvrable, increasing its survivability if one knows how to use it correctly. It also mounts 2 defensive 7.7 mm Type 89s, which at this rank is quite powerful due to its high fire rate and the large area it can cover.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB104 → 131 Sl icon.png
RB157 → 197 Sl icon.png
SB188 → 237 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications2 970 Rp icon.png
890 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost190 Ge icon.png
Crew training200 Sl icon.png
Experts1 000 Sl icon.png
Aces20 Ge icon.png
Research Aces96 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
20 / 30 / 50 % Sl icon.png
100 / 100 / 100 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
60 Sl icon.png
50 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
60 Sl icon.png
50 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
165 Rp icon.png
Cost:
50 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
250 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
250 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
320 Rp icon.png
Cost:
95 Sl icon.png
80 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
165 Rp icon.png
Cost:
50 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
320 Rp icon.png
Cost:
95 Sl icon.png
80 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type89_belt_pack
Research:
200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
60 Sl icon.png
50 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
type89_new_gun
Research:
165 Rp icon.png
Cost:
50 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
10 in (mod24)
Research:
165 Rp icon.png
Cost:
50 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type97_turret_belt_pack
Research:
250 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
65 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
type89_turret_new_gun
Research:
320 Rp icon.png
Cost:
95 Sl icon.png
80 Ge icon.png
  • Being a bomber, acquiring the 10 inch (mod 24) module should be top priority. The weak airframe means that getting the survivability modules will help you survive attacks from unwanted visitors.
  • New turret belts are beneficial as the gunner's stock belts contain ball ammunition which is almost useless.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 17.7 mm Type 89 machine gun
Ammunition200 rounds
Fire rate900 shots/min
Main article: Type 89 (7.7 mm)

The Ki-32 is armed with:

  • 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, wing-mounted (200 rpg)

Suspended armament

List of setups (2)
Setup 19 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bomb
Setup 24 x 100 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bomb
Main articles: Army Type 94 GPHE (50 kg), Army Type 94 GPHE (100 kg)

The Ki-32 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 9 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (450 kg total)
  • 4 x 100 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (400 kg total)

Defensive armament

Turret2 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun 'special'
Ammunition540 rounds
Fire rate700 shots/min
Main article: Type 89 (7.7 mm)

The Ki-32 is defended by:

  • 2 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns, dorsal turret (270 rpg = 540 total)

Usage in battles

The first thing you will notice upon flying the Ki-32 is that it is incredibly nimble, especially in AB. It can out-turn anything that's not a biplane. A spaded Ki-32 with no bombs can out-turn early Spitfires, and a smart pilot will use this incredible manoeuvrability to their advantage. However, all this manoeuvrability comes at a dangerous cost. With no armour, a vulnerable cockpit, and a weak airframe, you cannot afford to take any damage. As such, you should avoid engagements at all costs.

As a low flying light bomber, your first priority should be bombing ground targets as bombing bases is impractical, due to your bombs dealing low amounts of damage to them. While your 9 x 50 kg bombs are efficient at destroying lightly armoured targets like armoured cars and AAA, and your 100 kg bombs can destroy light tanks, any heavily armoured target like medium and heavy tanks or destroyers will shrug them off unless you score a direct hit, which is relatively easy to do due to the Ki-32's solid bomb accuracy.

Be sure to avoid any form of confrontation. Although you can outmanoeuvre pretty much anything you face, you cannot afford to take any hits, so the best idea is to avoid engagements all-together. However, if an enemy decides that you are worthy prey, you have a few tools at your disposal. Firstly, pull turn heavy manoeuvres and try to get on their tail. While you only have a 7.7 mm machine gun, you may be able to hit critical modules or even snipe the pilot if you are accurate enough. Aim for the pilot, engine(s) and wings, as you have a larger chance of downing an enemy by aiming at these spots. If the enemy is diving on you, force them to overshoot through manoeuvres and effective rudder usage then attempt to disengage during their zoom climb.

Enemies worth noting are as follows:

I-153s/I-16s - The Soviet biplanes and early Chaikas are universally feared planes. You can outmanoeuvre both of them, but they are quite fast for their ranks and sport 2-4 ShKAS machine guns that can mount entirely Incendiary rounds, which will shred your weak fabric and wood body in seconds. These ShKAS machine guns are arguably the best 7.62 mm guns in the game due to their high fire rate, good accuracy, powerful incendiary belts and good stopping power for their rank, so try not to get hit by any shot as they have a high possibility of critically damaging your plane, if not setting it on fire. Avoid them if possible, and if one thrusts a fight on you, seek assistance from teammates. Do not try to engage them, under any circumstances, as only one measly 7.7 mm will not be enough to kill them, and very soon, you will find yourself shot down.

D.501s/D.510s - The Dewoitines are exceptionally dangerous opponents. They are highly manoeuvrable, have decent speed, and are the only planes at this BR to mount a cannon, and what a cannon it is (Hispano 404). A single shot of their Hispano is enough to down your plane. However, their airframe is quite weak overall and have a very vulnerable open cockpit. If one engages with you, attempt to make him use all of his cannon rounds then try to snipe out his pilot with your gunner.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Not controllable Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Separate Not controllable
1 gear 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Fantastic manoeuvrability; can outturn Spitfires with no bombs
  • Small target
  • Fast firing defensive armament that covers a lot of area
  • Minimum fuel load is 35 minutes
  • Bombs are very accurate
  • Access to a bomb sight, a rarity for single-engined bombers
  • Fixed landing gear makes emergency landings easier (and regular landings)
  • Slow speed reduces bomb dispersion from the bombsight, unlike faster bombers
  • Has some offensive armament unlike most bombers

Cons:

  • Weak airframe
  • No armour whatsoever
  • Slow even after upgrades
  • Weak offensive armament
  • 4 x 100 kg bombs are useless versus heavy armour
  • Fuel tanks are not self-sealing
  • Fires will almost certainly down the plane (wood and fabric will not hold up for long)
  • It will most likely lose head-ons due to lack of armour and weak offensive armament
  • Mediocre roll rate
  • Offensive 7.7 mm machine gun is virtually useless other than for ground attacks (and even then, only trucks, artillery and howitzers)

History

The Ki-32 was developed in response to a 1936 Imperial Japanese Army specification to replace the ageing and inferior Ki-3. Both Mitsubishi and Kawasaki were requested to build two prototypes by Christmas. The specification required a top speed of 400 km/h at 3,000 m with a normal operating altitude from 2,000 to 4,000 m and the ability to climb to that height in 8 minutes. The companies needed to choose between utilizing an 825 hp Mitsubishi Ha-6 radial, an 850 hp Nakajima Ha-5 radial or an 850 hp Kawasaki Ha-9-IIb liquid-cooled inline engines.

The bomber also needed to conform to the following parameters:

  • Have a normal bomb load of 300 kg
  • Have a maximum payload of 450 kg
  • One forward firing machine gun
  • At least one flexible rear turret
  • The ability to perform 60-degree dives for dive bombing
  • Have a fully loaded weight of less than 3,300 kg

The first Kawasaki prototype flew in 1937 and seven more prototypes were produced. The Kawasaki Ki-32 and Mitsubishi Ki-30 were virtually identical in terms of layout and performance, the main difference between the two were the engines. Mitsubishi used the Nakajima Ha-5 14-cylinder air-cooled radial engine, whereas Kawasaki opted to use their own Ha-9-IIb inline V12 engine.

The Kawasaki design encountered engine cooling problems, thus awarding the Mitsubishi Ki-30 the production order. Despite this, the need for aircraft in the Second Sino-Japanese war, which had started at full scale in July 1937, allowed the Ki-32 to enter production 12 months behind its rival. However, there were more Ki-32s built than Ki-30 despite being an inferior plane.

The Ki-32 was used extensively during the Sino-Japanese War, equipping the 3rd, 6th, 10th, 35th, 45th, 65th and 75th Sentai. It saw combat during the Battle of Nomonhan against the Soviet Union in 1938-1939. The plane saw its last combat action with the Imperial Japanese Army bombing the Commonwealth forces during the Japanese invasion of Hong Kong.

During WWII, the Ki-32 were supplied to the Manchukuo Air Force in order to replace Kawasaki's old Type 88/KDA-2 light bombers, and were the main bombers of the service through the war.

It was finally withdrawn from military service in 1942 and was re-purposed as a training plane.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #103 - Pages of History section at 10:38 discusses the Ki-32.

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links


Kawasaki Aircraft Industries (川崎航空機工業株式会社)
Biplane Fighters  Ki-10-I · Ki-10-I C · Ki-10-II · Ki-10-II C
Fighters  Ki-61-I ko · Ki-61-I otsu · Ki-61-I hei · Tada's Ki-61-I hei · Ki-61-I tei · Ki-61-II Otsu Kai
  Ki-100 · Ki-100-II
Interceptors  Ki-45 ko · Ki-45 otsu · Ki-45 hei · Ki-45 tei
  Ki-96
  Ki-102 otsu
  Ki-108 Kai
Bombers  Ki-32
  Ki-48-II otsu
Captured  ␗Ki-45 hei/tei · ␗Ki-61-I otsu · ▃Ki-61-Ib
See also  Kawasaki Shipyard Co.

Japan bombers
Navy 
Carrier-based attack bomber 
B5N  B5N2
B6N  B6N1 · B6N2 · B6N2a
B7A  B7A2 · B7A2 (Homare 23)
Carrier-based dive bomber 
D3A  D3A1
D4Y  D4Y1 · D4Y2 · D4Y3 Ko
Shipboard Observation seaplane 
F1M  F1M2
Land-based Attack bomber 
G4M  G4M1
G5N  G5N1
G8N  G8N1
Flying boat 
H6K  H6K4
H8K  H8K2 · H8K3
Land-based Bomber 
P1Y  P1Y1
Army 
Light  Ki-32
  Ki-48-II otsu
Heavy  Ki-21-Ia · Ki-21-I hei
  Ki-49-I · Ki-49-IIa · Ki-49-IIb · Ki-49-IIb/L
  Ki-67-I Ko · Ki-67-I otsu
Other countries  ▅B-17E

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