Difference between revisions of "Radkampfwagen 90"

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{{Specs-Card|code=germ_radpanzer_90}}
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{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=germ_radpanzer_90
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle 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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle 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.'' -->
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The '''Radkampfwagen 90''', also known as the Radpanzer 90, is an eight-wheeled combat vehicle prototype created by Daimler-Benz at the request of the German Federal Ministry of Defence. In the early 1980s, the German Federal Ministry of Defence tasked Daimler-Benz with building an armoured wheeled combat vehicle in response to the success of other countries' wheeled armoured vehicles, such as the French [[AMX-10RC]]. The combat weight was to be around 30 tonnes. In late 1983, Daimler-Benz began developing and manufacturing what was formerly known as the "Wheeled Demonstration Vehicle" and then the "Wheeled Experimental Vehicle (88)". The vehicle was ultimately designated "Radkampfwagen 90". The prototype was finished in 1986. Due to budget cuts and a deteriorating defense market, the Radkampfwagen 90 was never developed beyond the prototype stage. However, the test results were incorporated into the investigations conducted as part of the experimental program "Test Carrier Armored Transport Vehicle with Integrated Overall Protection," which later developed into the GTK Boxer armoured fighting vehicle. The prototype is now displayed in Germany's Wehrtechnische Studiensammlung (Defense Technology Study Collection) in Koblenz. The turret is a prototype version of the [[Leopard 2 (Family)|Leopard 2 main battle tank]]'s.
−
{{Break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German light tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]], the Radkampfwagen 90 is a lightning-fast, heavy-hitting armoured wheeled vehicle for German Army ground forces. The Radkampfwagen 90 is armed with the well-known 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7A3 tank gun and has access to an assortment of ammunition for various situations. The Radkampfwagen 90, with a top speed of more than 100 km/h, is a dangerous flanking vehicle in the right hands. However, it lacks thermal imaging equipment, which is featured in several other tanks of its rank. It is most likely given that the Radkampfwagen 90 is still in the prototype stage. Nonetheless, with a two-plane fully automatic stabilization system and a laser rangefinder, the Radkampfwagen 90 can undoubtedly deliver devastating blows to the adversary if used to its full potential.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
The Radkampfwagen 90, being a light tank, is surprisingly survivable. When talking about the survivability of this vehicle, it is best to separate the tank into two parts, the turret, and the hull.
 
The Radkampfwagen 90, being a light tank, is surprisingly survivable. When talking about the survivability of this vehicle, it is best to separate the tank into two parts, the turret, and the hull.
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'''The Hull'''
 
'''The Hull'''
  
−
The hull of the Radkampfwagen 90 is the weakest part of the tank. While the hull does have "spaced armour", this is deceiving, as this will only protect you from HESH shells, and at 9.0, HESH is effectively useless, and in any case, most players will not be using it as their main shell. When hit by HEATFS, the hull of the Radwagen is very prone to hullbreak, but when hit with APFSDS, the tank can possibly survive a few hits, as long as the ammo is not detonated. In conclusion, the Radwagen's hull, at least from the front, can protect against non-apfsds autocannons, but the sides will be easily penned by even the Russian 14.5mms, and the rear by American .50 cals.
+
The hull of the Radkampfwagen 90 is the weakest part of the tank. While the hull does have "spaced armour", this is deceiving, as this will only protect you from HESH shells, and at its BR, HESH is effectively useless, and in any case, most players will not be using it as their main shell. When hit by HE shells, the hull of the Radkampfwagen is vulnerable to overpressure, but when hit with APFSDS, the tank can possibly survive a few hits, as long as the ammo is not detonated. In conclusion, the Radkampfwagen's hull, at least from the front, can protect against non-APFSDS autocannons, but the sides will be easily penetrated by even the Soviet 14.5 mm, and the rear by American .50 cals.
  
 
'''The Turret'''
 
'''The Turret'''
  
−
The turret of the Radkampfwagen 90 is surprisingly bouncy and well armored. It features, at least on the front and sides, spaced armour, but as mentioned before, this will only protect you from HESH rounds. However, the turret of the Radwagen is very hard to hullbreak, even when using HEATFS. The turret face also features many weird angles, that have the possibility of richocheting enemy rounds off of the sides. Another thing to note is that because of the large amounts of empty space in the turret, coupled with the lower damage of modern rounds, can allow you to survive multiple hits to the turret, even sometimes with enemy shells doing no damage. However, as with any armour, this should never be relied on, and should only be used as a last ditch effort.
+
The turret of the Radkampfwagen 90 is surprisingly bouncy and well armoured. It features, at least on the front and sides, spaced armour, but as mentioned before, this will only protect you from HESH and small calibre AP and HE rounds. The turret face also features many weird angles, that have the possibility of ricocheting enemy rounds off of the sides. Another thing to note is that because of the large amounts of empty space in the turret, coupled with the lower damage of modern rounds, can allow you to survive multiple hits to the turret, even sometimes with enemy shells doing no damage. However, as with any armour, this should never be relied on, and should only be used as a last ditch effort.
 +
 
 +
In conclusion, you can take hits sometimes, but in any case, it is better to not get spotted or hit in the first place, and to get the first shot off.
 +
 
 +
Unlike other light tanks, with the exception of the turret ring, your front is immune to all heavy machine guns and most autocannon rounds (from IFVs and SPAA for example)!
  
−
'''In conclusion, you can take hits sometimes, but in any case, it is better to not get spotted or hit in the first place, and to get the first shot off.'''
+
This allows you to engage such vehicles with relative ease and destroy them whereas other light vehicles would get penetrated killed.
  
−
'''Armor Composition'''
+
'''Armour Type'''
  
−
* High Hardness Rolled Armor
+
* High Hardness Rolled Armour (HHRA)
−
* Rolled Homogeneous Armor
+
* Rolled Homogeneous Armour (RHA)
−
* Cast Homogeneous Armor
+
* Cast Homogeneous Armour
−
* Gun Steel
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
−
!Armour
 
−
!Front (Slope Angle)
 
−
!Sides
 
−
!Rear
 
−
!Roof
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Hull
+
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
−
|38 mm (75°) ''Upper Glacis''
+
|-
−
38 mm (46°) ''Frontal Plate''
+
| Hull || 38 mm (75°) ''Upper glacis'' <br> 38 mm (46°) ''Frontal plate'' <br> Spaced armour (29 mm HHRA, 200 mm Air, 38 mm RHA) ''Lower glacis'' <br> 10 mm ''Sponsons'' || 10 mm ''Top'' <br> 29 mm ''Bottom'' || 15 mm ''Engine compartment'' <br> 10 mm ''Sponsons'' || 20 mm ''Crew compartment'' <br> 10 mm ''Sponsons'' <br> 5 - 15 mm ''Engine deck''
−
 
+
|-
−
Spaced Armor (29 mm HHRA, 200 mm Air, 38 mm RHA) ''Lower Glacis''
+
| Turret || 50 mm ''Upper front'' <br> Spaced armour (38 mm HHRA, 127 mm Air, 84 mm RHA) ''Lower front'' <br> 33 mm (67°) ''Upper mantlet'' <br> Spaced armour (33 mm HHRA, 120 mm Air, 26 mm RHA) ''Lower mantlet'' <br> 38 mm ''Mantlet sides'' || Spaced armour (38 mm HHRA, 127 mm Air, 84 mm RHA) ''Side front'' <br> Spaced armour (16 mm HHRA, 80 mm Air, 29 mm RHA) ''Side rear'' || 29 mm + 10 mm || 20 mm ''Turret roof'' <br> 50 mm ''Rear mantlet top''
−
 
 
−
10 mm ''Sponsons''
 
−
|10 mm Upper
 
−
29 mm ''Lower''
 
−
|15 mm Engine Compartment
 
−
10 mm ''Sponsons''
 
−
|20 mm ''Crew Compartment''
 
−
10 mm ''Sponsons''
 
−
 
 
−
5 - 15 mm ''Engine Deck''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Turret
 
−
|50 mm ''Upper Front''
 
−
Spaced Armor (38 mm HHRA, 127 mm Air, 84 mm RHA) ''Lower Front''
 
−
33 mm (67°) ''Upper Mantlet''
 
−
Spaced Armor (33 mm HHRA, 120 mm Air, 26 mm RHA) ''Lower Mantlet''
 
−
 
−
38 mm ''Mantlet Sides''
 
−
|Spaced Armor (38 mm HHRA, 127 mm Air, 84 mm RHA) ''Side Front''
 
−
Spaced Armor (16 mm HHRA, 80 mm Air, 29 mm RHA) ''Side Rear''
 
−
|29 mm + 10 mm
 
−
|20 mm ''Turret Roof''
 
−
50 mm ''Rear Mantlet Top''
 
 
|}
 
|}
−
'''Table Key:'''
 
−
 
−
*
 
  
−
* RHA = Rolled Homogeneous Armor
+
'''Notes:'''
  
−
'''Notes:'''
+
* There is a lining of 16 mm RHA between the sponsons and the crew compartment, creating spaced armour on the sides of the vehicle.
−
 
+
* There are optics apertures at the sides of the turret, which have a 50 mm armour plate and a 8 mm armour plate, along with the 20 mm optics. These are essentially a hole in the spaced armour of the turret sides, but most rounds go through the spaced armour anyway so it isn't really a weakness.
−
* There is a lining of 16 mm RHA between the sponsons and the crew compartment, creating spaced armor on the sides of the vehicle.
 
−
* There are optics apertures at the sides of the turret, which have a 50 mm armor plate and a 8 mm armor plate, along with the 20 mm optics. These are essentially a hole in the spaced armor of the turret sides, but most rounds go through the spaced armor anyway so it isn't really a weakness.
 
 
* Turret Ring - 50 mm
 
* Turret Ring - 50 mm
 
* Tires and Suspension - 10 mm
 
* Tires and Suspension - 10 mm
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 1286|rbMinHp= 734}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,286|rbMinHp=734}}
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
{{main|L7A3 (105 mm)}}
 
{{main|L7A3 (105 mm)}}
  
−
The L7A3 105 mm gun mounted on the Radkampfwagen 90 is the same as the gun that the Leopard 1 series uses, and is the same in many aspects. Similar to the Leopard A1A1, the gun is equipped with a two-plane stabilizer allowing for firing on the move. The gun also has faster targeting speed at 5.1 degrees per second compared the the Leopard 1's 3.1 degrees per second in the vertical plane, but the turret traverse speed of the Radwagen, or horizontal targeting speed, certainly leaves something to be desired. A unique thing about this particular L7 is that it fires one of the best L7 APFSDS shells in the game, with higher penetration than even the first Rheinmetall 120 mm L44 APFSDS shell.
+
The L7A3 105 mm gun mounted on the Radkampfwagen 90 is the same as the gun that the Leopard 1 series uses, and is the same in many aspects. Similar to the Leopard A1A1, the gun is equipped with a two-plane stabilizer allowing for firing on the move. The gun also has faster targeting speed at 5.1 degrees per second compared to the Leopard 1's 3.1 degrees per second in the vertical plane, but the turret traverse speed of the Radkampfwagen, or horizontal targeting speed, certainly leaves something to be desired. A unique thing about this particular L7 is that it fires one of the best L7 APFSDS shells in the game, with higher penetration than even the first Rheinmetall 120 mm L44 APFSDS shell.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
Line 99: Line 80:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 42 || rowspan="2" | -9°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 22.8 || 31.62 || 38.4 || __.__ || 45.18 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.7 || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | 6.7
+
| rowspan="2" | 42 || rowspan="2" | -9°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 22.85 || 31.62 || 38.40 || 42.47 || 45.18 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 6.70
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| 14.3 || 16.8 || 20.4 || __.__ || 24.0
+
| 14.28 || 16.80 || 20.40 || 22.56 || 24.00
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:L7A3 (105 mm)/Ammunition|DM12, DM512, DM23, DM33}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM12 || HEATFS || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400 || 400
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM23 || APFSDS || 337 || 335 || 330 || 322 || 314 || 306
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM33 || APFSDS || 408 || 405 || 398 || 389 || 379 || 370
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM502 || HESH || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127 || 127
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM12 || HEATFS || 1,173 || 10.5 || N/A || 0.1 || 1,271 || 65° || 72° || 77°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM23 || APFSDS || 1,455 || 3.79 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM33 || APFSDS || 1,455 || 3.79 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 78° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| DM502 || HESH || 732 || 14.85 || 0.4 || 0.1 || 4,306 || 73° || 77° || 80°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x200px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 +
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
! 4th<br>rack empty
−
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''42''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''42''' || 31&nbsp;''(+11)'' || 28&nbsp;''(+14)'' || 12&nbsp;''(+30)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+41)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
  
−
==== [[Optics]] ====
+
* The 4th rack is a first stage ammo rack, so it refills from the other racks in the designated order.
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} Optics
 
−
|-
 
−
!
 
−
! Default magnification
 
−
! Maximum magnification
 
−
|-
 
−
! Main Gun optics
 
−
| x8.0 || x12.0
 
−
|-
 
−
! Comparable optics
 
−
| colspan="2" | ___
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 
{{main|MG3A1 (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|MG3A1 (7.62 mm)}}
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* This MG has very low penetration, as almost any thin armoured plate can withstand its fire
 
* This MG has very low penetration, as almost any thin armoured plate can withstand its fire
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | [[MG3A1 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm MG3A1]]
 
! colspan="5" | [[MG3A1 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm MG3A1]]
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Mount
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
−
! Capacity<br>(Belt capacity)
 
−
! Rate of fire<br>(shots/minute)
 
−
! Vertical<br>guidance
 
−
! Horizontal<br>guidance
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Coaxial || 4,000 (1,000) || 1,200 || N/A || N/A
+
| Coaxial || 4,000 (200) || 1,200 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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'''General Playstyle'''
 
'''General Playstyle'''
  
−
The Radkampfwagen 90, due to it's speed, may be used in a flanking manner, being able to go around the enemy and surprise them where they do not expect. When flanking, it is recommended to use roads if possible, as the Radwagen is a wheeled vehicle, and rough terrain will slow it down. However, even offroad, the vehicle is still capable of speeds that are much higher than many other contemporary MBTs. The scouting ability of the Radwagen can also be very useful, as it can help you support your team without risking the possibility of being spotted/noticed by firing your gun. The only downside to this playstyle is that the Radwagen is unusually large in size, most notably the hull, which makes it easier to be spotted.
+
The Radkampfwagen 90 may be used in a flanking manner thanks to its speed, being able to go around the enemy and surprise them where they do not expect. When flanking, it is recommended to use roads if possible, as the Radkampfwagen is a wheeled vehicle, and rough terrain will slow it down. However, even offroad, the vehicle is still capable of speeds that are much higher than many other contemporary MBTs. The scouting ability of the Radkampfwagen can also be very useful, as it can help you support your team without risking the possibility of being spotted/noticed by firing your gun. The only downside to this playstyle is that the Radkampfwagen is unusually large in size, most notably the hull, which makes it easier to be spotted.
  
−
The Radkampfwagen may also be used in a playstyle of a fast MBT. While the hull of the Radwagen is weak, not really well armoured, and prone to hullbreak, and easy to hit, the turret of the vehicle has multiple well angled and very bouncy plates, both interior and exterior, which allows the turret to sometimes take hits without damage, or even ricochet some shells. This bouncy turret can be used in a hull-down position, like a ridgeline, or a pile or rubble. However, it is important to note that even though enemy shells have a chance of bouncing, it is best not to rely on this, and to use the vehicle's stabilizer and situational awareness to get the first shot off.
+
The Radkampfwagen may also be used in a playstyle of a fast MBT. While the hull of the Radkampfwagen is weak, not really well armoured, and prone to overpressure damage, and easy to hit, the turret of the vehicle has multiple well angled and very bouncy plates, both interior and exterior, which allows the turret to sometimes take hits without damage, or even ricochet some shells. This bouncy turret can be used in a hull-down position, like a ridgeline, or a pile or rubble. However, it is important to note that even though enemy shells have a chance of bouncing, it is best not to rely on this, and to use the vehicle's stabilizer and situational awareness to get the first shot off.
  
 
'''Arcade Battles'''
 
'''Arcade Battles'''
  
−
In Arcade, the playstyle of the Radwagen changes a bit. Due to markers that will tell everyone where the Radwagen is, flanking is not as good of a strategy. However, the vehicle retains all other advantages, and due to the slight engine boost in arcade, will be able to hit very high speeds even offroad. Of course, enemies will also be faster in general, which makes this extra speed redundant. The vehicle's scouting abilities are useful in aiding the team. Your gun, for its tier, is good, and its decently low shell drop will aid in those long range shots that are common in arcade. Just remember - this is a light vehicle in a gamemode where it can't really hide, so when playing this vehicle in Arcade, be cautious.
+
In Arcade, the playstyle of the Radkampfwagen changes a bit. Due to markers that will tell everyone where the Radkampfwagen is, flanking is not as good of a strategy. However, the vehicle retains all other advantages, and due to the slight engine boost in arcade, will be able to hit very high speeds even offroad. Of course, enemies will also be faster in general, which makes this extra speed redundant. The vehicle's scouting abilities are useful in aiding the team. Your gun, for its tier, is good, and its decently low shell drop will aid in those long range shots that are common in arcade. Just remember - this is a light vehicle in a game mode where it can't really hide, so when playing this vehicle in Arcade, be cautious.
  
 
'''Realistic Battles'''
 
'''Realistic Battles'''
  
−
In Realistic, the Radwagen's speed and scouting abilities are even more prominent. As mentioned above, it can flank around the enemy with stealth, and either scout enemies for the team or quickly knock them out with its very punchy gun. The team also will benefit from its scouting abilities, as in a gamemode without enemy markers, intel of the enemies whereabouts can be crucial to the team's victory.
+
In Realistic, the Radkampfwagen's speed and scouting abilities are even more prominent. As mentioned above, it can flank around the enemy with stealth, and either scout enemies for the team or quickly knock them out with its very punchy gun. The team also will benefit from its scouting abilities, as in a game mode without enemy markers, intel on the enemies whereabouts can be crucial to the team's victory.
−
 
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 
−
! Protection
 
−
! colspan="3" | Firepower
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Tires
 
−
|
 
−
| Parts
 
−
| Horizontal Drive
 
−
| DM502
 
−
| Smoke grenade
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
| Suspension
 
−
| Brake System
 
−
| FPE
 
−
| Adjustment of Fire
 
−
| DM12
 
−
| Airstrike
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Filters
 
−
|
 
−
| Crew Replenishment
 
−
| Elevation Mechanism
 
−
| Improved optics
 
−
| NVD
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| Transmission
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Artillery Support
 
−
| DM33
 
−
| Rangefinder
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 267: Line 150:
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Introduces a new playstyle option for top-rank German lineups
+
* Very mobile and very fast on both roads and cross-country terrain
−
* Complement the lack of scout vehicles top-rank German lineups
+
* Has DM33 round available for research
−
* Has DM23 APFSDS rounds as stock ammunition
+
* Very competitive, gun performs great even in uptiered battles
−
* Is very mobile and very fast on both roads and cross-country terrain
 
−
* Has DM33 rounds available for research
 
−
* Deadly when facing lower-ranked opponents
 
−
* Remains competitive even when uptiered and gun still performs well even at 10.3
 
−
* 8.7 reload stock, can be further improved with crew training
 
 
* Hull is resistant against most heavy machine guns
 
* Hull is resistant against most heavy machine guns
−
* Spaced armour in the front and is resistant against low calibre SPAA
+
* Spaced armour in the front and is resistant against low calibre SPAA and IFV fire
 
* Same turret as the Leopard 2K, can sometimes bounce shots
 
* Same turret as the Leopard 2K, can sometimes bounce shots
−
* Extremely effective in the hands of experienced players
 
 
* Is not sluggish at low speed
 
* Is not sluggish at low speed
 +
* Great reverse speed
 +
* Has great optics (8x-16x zoom), making it a great sniper
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
 
* Does not have anti-aircraft machine gun
 
* Does not have anti-aircraft machine gun
−
* Can be hull-broken
+
* Can be destroyed with overpressure by HE shells, artillery strikes and bombs
−
* Slower reverse speed than other wheeled vehicles
+
* Does not have thermal sights, putting it at a disadvantage of other vehicles at its rank
−
* Does not have thermal sights, putting it at a disadvantage of other vehicles of similar BR
+
* Has a large silhouette
−
* Wheeled vehicles means it will suffer on certain terrain and cannot pivot turn
+
* Only average turret rotation of 24°/sec spaded, below average for such a mobile vehicle which would benefit from better gun handling (i.e. like the Rooikat)
−
* Has a large profile because of large turret
 
−
* Slower than average turret rotation
 
 
* Is littered with ammo
 
* Is littered with ammo
−
* Requires deep knowledge and keen situational awareness to play effectively
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Line 297: Line 173:
  
 
In the early 1980s, the German Federal Ministry of Defence, known as the Bundesministerium der Verteidigung (BMVg) in German, initiated a program to produce an eight-wheeled combat vehicle. The reason for the program's creation was the success of the Spähpanzer 2 Luchs and the Transportpanzer Fuchs, along with vehicles operated by other countries, such as the French AMX-10RC. Daimler-Benz was tasked with the construction of such a vehicle, and the requirements were for an 8 x 8 wheeled combat vehicle with a weight of less than 30 tons and a powerful armament and adequate armour. The first prototype was built in 1983, and was first known as the Demonstrationsfahrzeug Rad (demonstration vehicle wheeled) and then the Experimentalfahrzeug Rad (8×8), meaning experimental vehicle wheeled (8×8). It finally received the name Radpanzer 90, and it is known as the Radkampfwagen 90 in War Thunder. The final production model was completed in 1986. It featured a rear-mounted engine, had an independent suspension for the wheels, and the turret was that of the Leopard 1A3. The Radpanzer 90 never entered service, but the information gathered from the program was later used in the development of the GTK Boxer wheeled vehicle.
 
In the early 1980s, the German Federal Ministry of Defence, known as the Bundesministerium der Verteidigung (BMVg) in German, initiated a program to produce an eight-wheeled combat vehicle. The reason for the program's creation was the success of the Spähpanzer 2 Luchs and the Transportpanzer Fuchs, along with vehicles operated by other countries, such as the French AMX-10RC. Daimler-Benz was tasked with the construction of such a vehicle, and the requirements were for an 8 x 8 wheeled combat vehicle with a weight of less than 30 tons and a powerful armament and adequate armour. The first prototype was built in 1983, and was first known as the Demonstrationsfahrzeug Rad (demonstration vehicle wheeled) and then the Experimentalfahrzeug Rad (8×8), meaning experimental vehicle wheeled (8×8). It finally received the name Radpanzer 90, and it is known as the Radkampfwagen 90 in War Thunder. The final production model was completed in 1986. It featured a rear-mounted engine, had an independent suspension for the wheels, and the turret was that of the Leopard 1A3. The Radpanzer 90 never entered service, but the information gathered from the program was later used in the development of the GTK Boxer wheeled vehicle.
 +
 +
=== [[wt:en/news/6635-development-radkampfwagen-90-a-leopard-on-wheels-en|Devblog]] ===
 +
In the early 1980s, the West German Ministry of Defense sought to procure a wheeled tank themselves, after observing the success of similar designs of other nations such as the French AMX-10RC. The mostly positive experiences made with the introduction of the wheeled Luchs in the years prior, further convinced the German military of this idea.
 +
 +
As a result, the Ministry of Defense tasked the Daimler-Benz company, who had also been involved in the development of the successful Spähpanzer Luchs before, with developing this new wheeled tank. By late 1983, the first mock-up was created and the project received its official name - Radkampfwagen 90, or alternatively, Radpanzer 90.
 +
 +
The first, and what would end up being the only prototype was constructed in 1986, subsequently undergoing various trials. Despite proving itself as a highly capable vehicle and producing favorable test results, the dissolution of the Eastern Bloc and its Warsaw Pact alliance, caused not only the need for a vehicle such as the Radkampfwagen 90 to disappear, but also for a valid justification of accepting its high production costs. As the direct result of a combination of all these factors, further development of the project was suspended in the late '80s - early '90s, with the Radkampfwagen 90 project being ultimately abandoned.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, 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=germ_radpanzer_90 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Images
 +
<gallery mode="packed" heights="150">
 +
File:Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 01.jpg|
 +
File:Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 02.jpg|
 +
File:Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 03.jpg|
 +
File:Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 04.jpg|
 +
File:Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 05.jpg|
 +
File:Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 06.jpg|
 +
</gallery>
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|chjZ6Hra--c|'''Best wheeled tanks''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 04:49 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|KZ6O1OKiShA|'''Should You Buy The RadKampfWagen 90?''' - ''Sako Sniper''|d5oJGOKiUV8|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''Napalmratte''}}
  
 
== See 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 vehicles;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
  
−
== Bibliography ==
+
;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
  
−
* Radpanzer 90. (2020, February 22). In ''Wikipedia''. https://de.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Radpanzer_90&oldid=197067150
+
* [[Class 3 (P)]]
 +
* [[Rooikat 105]]
 +
* [[Type 16]]
 +
* [[WMA301]]
 +
* [[Centauro I 105 R]]
 +
* [[AMX-10RC]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== 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;''
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
 
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
  
 
* [[wt:en/news/6635-development-radkampfwagen-90-a-leopard-on-wheels-en|[Devblog] Radkampfwagen 90: A leopard on wheels]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/6635-development-radkampfwagen-90-a-leopard-on-wheels-en|[Devblog] Radkampfwagen 90: A leopard on wheels]]
 +
 +
=== References ===
 +
 +
;Biblbiography
 +
 +
* Radpanzer 90. (2020, February 22). In ''Wikipedia''. https://de.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Radpanzer_90&oldid=197067150
  
 
{{Germany light tanks}}
 
{{Germany light tanks}}
 +
[[Category:Wheeled ground vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 13:28, 1 September 2023

Introducing Wiki 3.0
Radkampfwagen 90
germ_radpanzer_90.png
GarageImage Radkampfwagen 90.jpg
ArtImage Radkampfwagen 90.png
Radkampfwagen 90
Germany flag.png Germany
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
10.0 10.0 10.0
Class:
Research:260 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:710 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png

Description

The Radkampfwagen 90, also known as the Radpanzer 90, is an eight-wheeled combat vehicle prototype created by Daimler-Benz at the request of the German Federal Ministry of Defence. In the early 1980s, the German Federal Ministry of Defence tasked Daimler-Benz with building an armoured wheeled combat vehicle in response to the success of other countries' wheeled armoured vehicles, such as the French AMX-10RC. The combat weight was to be around 30 tonnes. In late 1983, Daimler-Benz began developing and manufacturing what was formerly known as the "Wheeled Demonstration Vehicle" and then the "Wheeled Experimental Vehicle (88)". The vehicle was ultimately designated "Radkampfwagen 90". The prototype was finished in 1986. Due to budget cuts and a deteriorating defense market, the Radkampfwagen 90 was never developed beyond the prototype stage. However, the test results were incorporated into the investigations conducted as part of the experimental program "Test Carrier Armored Transport Vehicle with Integrated Overall Protection," which later developed into the GTK Boxer armoured fighting vehicle. The prototype is now displayed in Germany's Wehrtechnische Studiensammlung (Defense Technology Study Collection) in Koblenz. The turret is a prototype version of the Leopard 2 main battle tank's.

Introduced in Update 1.97 "Viking Fury", the Radkampfwagen 90 is a lightning-fast, heavy-hitting armoured wheeled vehicle for German Army ground forces. The Radkampfwagen 90 is armed with the well-known 105 mm Royal Ordnance L7A3 tank gun and has access to an assortment of ammunition for various situations. The Radkampfwagen 90, with a top speed of more than 100 km/h, is a dangerous flanking vehicle in the right hands. However, it lacks thermal imaging equipment, which is featured in several other tanks of its rank. It is most likely given that the Radkampfwagen 90 is still in the prototype stage. Nonetheless, with a two-plane fully automatic stabilization system and a laser rangefinder, the Radkampfwagen 90 can undoubtedly deliver devastating blows to the adversary if used to its full potential.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull38 / 26 / 15
Turret122 / 45 / 29
Crew4 people
Visibility136 %

The Radkampfwagen 90, being a light tank, is surprisingly survivable. When talking about the survivability of this vehicle, it is best to separate the tank into two parts, the turret, and the hull.

The Hull

The hull of the Radkampfwagen 90 is the weakest part of the tank. While the hull does have "spaced armour", this is deceiving, as this will only protect you from HESH shells, and at its BR, HESH is effectively useless, and in any case, most players will not be using it as their main shell. When hit by HE shells, the hull of the Radkampfwagen is vulnerable to overpressure, but when hit with APFSDS, the tank can possibly survive a few hits, as long as the ammo is not detonated. In conclusion, the Radkampfwagen's hull, at least from the front, can protect against non-APFSDS autocannons, but the sides will be easily penetrated by even the Soviet 14.5 mm, and the rear by American .50 cals.

The Turret

The turret of the Radkampfwagen 90 is surprisingly bouncy and well armoured. It features, at least on the front and sides, spaced armour, but as mentioned before, this will only protect you from HESH and small calibre AP and HE rounds. The turret face also features many weird angles, that have the possibility of ricocheting enemy rounds off of the sides. Another thing to note is that because of the large amounts of empty space in the turret, coupled with the lower damage of modern rounds, can allow you to survive multiple hits to the turret, even sometimes with enemy shells doing no damage. However, as with any armour, this should never be relied on, and should only be used as a last ditch effort.

In conclusion, you can take hits sometimes, but in any case, it is better to not get spotted or hit in the first place, and to get the first shot off.

Unlike other light tanks, with the exception of the turret ring, your front is immune to all heavy machine guns and most autocannon rounds (from IFVs and SPAA for example)!

This allows you to engage such vehicles with relative ease and destroy them whereas other light vehicles would get penetrated killed.

Armour Type

  • High Hardness Rolled Armour (HHRA)
  • Rolled Homogeneous Armour (RHA)
  • Cast Homogeneous Armour
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 38 mm (75°) Upper glacis
38 mm (46°) Frontal plate
Spaced armour (29 mm HHRA, 200 mm Air, 38 mm RHA) Lower glacis
10 mm Sponsons 		10 mm Top
29 mm Bottom 		15 mm Engine compartment
10 mm Sponsons 		20 mm Crew compartment
10 mm Sponsons
5 - 15 mm Engine deck
Turret 50 mm Upper front
Spaced armour (38 mm HHRA, 127 mm Air, 84 mm RHA) Lower front
33 mm (67°) Upper mantlet
Spaced armour (33 mm HHRA, 120 mm Air, 26 mm RHA) Lower mantlet
38 mm Mantlet sides 		Spaced armour (38 mm HHRA, 127 mm Air, 84 mm RHA) Side front
Spaced armour (16 mm HHRA, 80 mm Air, 29 mm RHA) Side rear 		29 mm + 10 mm 20 mm Turret roof
50 mm Rear mantlet top

Notes:

  • There is a lining of 16 mm RHA between the sponsons and the crew compartment, creating spaced armour on the sides of the vehicle.
  • There are optics apertures at the sides of the turret, which have a 50 mm armour plate and a 8 mm armour plate, along with the 20 mm optics. These are essentially a hole in the spaced armour of the turret sides, but most rounds go through the spaced armour anyway so it isn't really a weakness.
  • Turret Ring - 50 mm
  • Tires and Suspension - 10 mm

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB112 / 39 km/h
RB and SB101 / 36 km/h
Number of gears5 forward
2 back
Weight30.8 t
Engine power
AB1 584 hp
RB and SB830 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB51.4 hp/t
RB and SB26.9 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 112 39 30.8 1,286 1,584 41.75 51.43
Realistic 101 36 734 830 23.83 26.95

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 721 → 5 786 Sl icon.png
RB3 582 → 5 570 Sl icon.png
SB4 598 → 7 149 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications212 200 Rp icon.png
350 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 800 Ge icon.png
Crew training200 000 Sl icon.png
Experts710 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 080 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
140 / 170 / 220 % Sl icon.png
232 / 232 / 232 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new wheels.png
Tires
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods new car suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ger.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_usa_HESH_ammo_pack
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_NATO_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods airstrike.png
Airstrike
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods scout streak.png
Scout UAV
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods scouting.png
Improved optics
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
105mm_DM33_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder

Main armament

105 mm L7A3 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition42 rounds
First-order11 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
8.7 → 6.7 s
Vertical guidance-9° / 20°
Main article: L7A3 (105 mm)

The L7A3 105 mm gun mounted on the Radkampfwagen 90 is the same as the gun that the Leopard 1 series uses, and is the same in many aspects. Similar to the Leopard A1A1, the gun is equipped with a two-plane stabilizer allowing for firing on the move. The gun also has faster targeting speed at 5.1 degrees per second compared to the Leopard 1's 3.1 degrees per second in the vertical plane, but the turret traverse speed of the Radkampfwagen, or horizontal targeting speed, certainly leaves something to be desired. A unique thing about this particular L7 is that it fires one of the best L7 APFSDS shells in the game, with higher penetration than even the first Rheinmetall 120 mm L44 APFSDS shell.

105 mm L7A3 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 42 -9°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 22.85 31.62 38.40 42.47 45.18 8.71 7.70 7.10 6.70
Realistic 14.28 16.80 20.40 22.56 24.00

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
DM12 HEATFS 400 400 400 400 400 400
DM512 HESH 127 127 127 127 127 127
DM23 APFSDS 337 335 330 322 314 306
DM33 APFSDS 408 405 398 389 379 370
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
DM12 HEATFS 1,174 10.5 0.05 0.1 1.27 65° 72° 77°
DM512 HESH 732 11.2 0.1 4 4.31 73° 77° 80°
DM23 APFSDS 1,455 4.2 - - - 78° 80° 81°
DM33 APFSDS 1,455 3.79 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Radkampfwagen 90
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
42 31 (+11) 28 (+14) 12 (+30) 1 (+41) No

Notes:

  • The 4th rack is a first stage ammo rack, so it refills from the other racks in the designated order.

Machine guns

7.62 mm MG3A1 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition4 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
Main article: MG3A1 (7.62 mm)

The coaxially mounted 7.62 mm MG3A1 is, in most situations, not useful. While being able to "blind" opponents by shooting at their optics, as with any MG, and able to easily dispatch of vehicles with exposed crew that have uptiered themselves, such as the M56, 2 factors really hold this MG back from being truly useful. These are:

  • The MG is mounted coaxially, limiting its traverse and AA capabilities (especially against helicopters)
  • This MG has very low penetration, as almost any thin armoured plate can withstand its fire
7.62 mm MG3A1
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 4,000 (200) 1,200 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

General Playstyle

The Radkampfwagen 90 may be used in a flanking manner thanks to its speed, being able to go around the enemy and surprise them where they do not expect. When flanking, it is recommended to use roads if possible, as the Radkampfwagen is a wheeled vehicle, and rough terrain will slow it down. However, even offroad, the vehicle is still capable of speeds that are much higher than many other contemporary MBTs. The scouting ability of the Radkampfwagen can also be very useful, as it can help you support your team without risking the possibility of being spotted/noticed by firing your gun. The only downside to this playstyle is that the Radkampfwagen is unusually large in size, most notably the hull, which makes it easier to be spotted.

The Radkampfwagen may also be used in a playstyle of a fast MBT. While the hull of the Radkampfwagen is weak, not really well armoured, and prone to overpressure damage, and easy to hit, the turret of the vehicle has multiple well angled and very bouncy plates, both interior and exterior, which allows the turret to sometimes take hits without damage, or even ricochet some shells. This bouncy turret can be used in a hull-down position, like a ridgeline, or a pile or rubble. However, it is important to note that even though enemy shells have a chance of bouncing, it is best not to rely on this, and to use the vehicle's stabilizer and situational awareness to get the first shot off.

Arcade Battles

In Arcade, the playstyle of the Radkampfwagen changes a bit. Due to markers that will tell everyone where the Radkampfwagen is, flanking is not as good of a strategy. However, the vehicle retains all other advantages, and due to the slight engine boost in arcade, will be able to hit very high speeds even offroad. Of course, enemies will also be faster in general, which makes this extra speed redundant. The vehicle's scouting abilities are useful in aiding the team. Your gun, for its tier, is good, and its decently low shell drop will aid in those long range shots that are common in arcade. Just remember - this is a light vehicle in a game mode where it can't really hide, so when playing this vehicle in Arcade, be cautious.

Realistic Battles

In Realistic, the Radkampfwagen's speed and scouting abilities are even more prominent. As mentioned above, it can flank around the enemy with stealth, and either scout enemies for the team or quickly knock them out with its very punchy gun. The team also will benefit from its scouting abilities, as in a game mode without enemy markers, intel on the enemies whereabouts can be crucial to the team's victory.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Very mobile and very fast on both roads and cross-country terrain
  • Has DM33 round available for research
  • Very competitive, gun performs great even in uptiered battles
  • Hull is resistant against most heavy machine guns
  • Spaced armour in the front and is resistant against low calibre SPAA and IFV fire
  • Same turret as the Leopard 2K, can sometimes bounce shots
  • Is not sluggish at low speed
  • Great reverse speed
  • Has great optics (8x-16x zoom), making it a great sniper

Cons:

  • Does not have anti-aircraft machine gun
  • Can be destroyed with overpressure by HE shells, artillery strikes and bombs
  • Does not have thermal sights, putting it at a disadvantage of other vehicles at its rank
  • Has a large silhouette
  • Only average turret rotation of 24°/sec spaded, below average for such a mobile vehicle which would benefit from better gun handling (i.e. like the Rooikat)
  • Is littered with ammo

History

In the early 1980s, the German Federal Ministry of Defence, known as the Bundesministerium der Verteidigung (BMVg) in German, initiated a program to produce an eight-wheeled combat vehicle. The reason for the program's creation was the success of the Spähpanzer 2 Luchs and the Transportpanzer Fuchs, along with vehicles operated by other countries, such as the French AMX-10RC. Daimler-Benz was tasked with the construction of such a vehicle, and the requirements were for an 8 x 8 wheeled combat vehicle with a weight of less than 30 tons and a powerful armament and adequate armour. The first prototype was built in 1983, and was first known as the Demonstrationsfahrzeug Rad (demonstration vehicle wheeled) and then the Experimentalfahrzeug Rad (8×8), meaning experimental vehicle wheeled (8×8). It finally received the name Radpanzer 90, and it is known as the Radkampfwagen 90 in War Thunder. The final production model was completed in 1986. It featured a rear-mounted engine, had an independent suspension for the wheels, and the turret was that of the Leopard 1A3. The Radpanzer 90 never entered service, but the information gathered from the program was later used in the development of the GTK Boxer wheeled vehicle.

Devblog

In the early 1980s, the West German Ministry of Defense sought to procure a wheeled tank themselves, after observing the success of similar designs of other nations such as the French AMX-10RC. The mostly positive experiences made with the introduction of the wheeled Luchs in the years prior, further convinced the German military of this idea.

As a result, the Ministry of Defense tasked the Daimler-Benz company, who had also been involved in the development of the successful Spähpanzer Luchs before, with developing this new wheeled tank. By late 1983, the first mock-up was created and the project received its official name - Radkampfwagen 90, or alternatively, Radpanzer 90.

The first, and what would end up being the only prototype was constructed in 1986, subsequently undergoing various trials. Despite proving itself as a highly capable vehicle and producing favorable test results, the dissolution of the Eastern Bloc and its Warsaw Pact alliance, caused not only the need for a vehicle such as the Radkampfwagen 90 to disappear, but also for a valid justification of accepting its high production costs. As the direct result of a combination of all these factors, further development of the project was suspended in the late '80s - early '90s, with the Radkampfwagen 90 project being ultimately abandoned.

Media

Skins
Images
  • Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 01.jpg
  • Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 02.jpg
  • Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 03.jpg
  • Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 04.jpg
  • Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 05.jpg
  • Radpanzer 90 WTWallpaper 06.jpg
Videos
Best wheeled tanks discusses the Radkampfwagen 90 at 04:49 - War Thunder Official Channel
Should You Buy The RadKampfWagen 90? - Sako Sniper
Radkampfwagen 90 Tank Review - Napalmratte

See also

Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links

References

Biblbiography


Germany light tanks
Pz.II  Pz.II C · Pz.II C (DAK) · Pz.II C TD · Pz.II F · Pz.Sfl.Ic
Sd.Kfz.234  Sd.Kfz.234/1 · Sd.Kfz.234/2 · Sd.Kfz.234/2 TD
Marder  Marder A1- · Marder 1A3 · Begleitpanzer 57 · DF105
SPz PUMA  PUMA · PUMA VJTF
Wheeled  Sd.Kfz.221 (s.Pz.B.41) · Class 3 (P) · Radkampfwagen 90 · Boxer MGS
Other  Ru 251 · SPz 12-3 LGS
Argentina  TAM · TAM 2C · TAM 2IP · JaPz.K A2
Czechoslovakia  Pz.35(t) · Pz.38(t) A · Pz.38(t) F · Pz.38(t) n.A. · Sd.Kfz. 140/1
France  Pz.Sp.Wg.P204(f) KwK
Lithuania  Vilkas
USA  leKPz M41
USSR  SPz BMP-1

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