Difference between revisions of "Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 (USSR)"

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{{About
 
{{About
−
| about = gift fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = gift Soviet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| other
 
| other
 
| usage-1 = the American version
 
| usage-1 = the American version
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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 '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.31]]. The plane is painted after the camouflage scheme of Soviet pilot Alexander Pokryshkin in the 16th Guards Fighter Regiment, who scored most of his aerial victories in a lend-lease P-39.
+
'''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.31]] and has been made available yearly for Aleksandr Pokryshkin's birthday in the store and in-game for Golden Eagles {{ge}} since 2013.
 +
 
 +
The plane is painted after the camouflage scheme of Soviet ace pilot Alexander Pokryshkin in the 16th Guards Fighter Regiment, who scored most of his aerial victories in a lend-lease P-39. It differs from the regular [[P-39N-0]] by the removal of all 4 wing-mounted .30 cal machine guns. This increases the overall performance of the plane, with almost no shortcomings.
 +
 
 +
This air-superiority fighter is able to dodge several enemies at once, prominently with the tactical use of turn fighting. The firepower, although reduced, is powerful and accurate thanks to the nose-mounted 37 mm M4 cannon. The 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns are fit for pilots seeking to engage numerous aircraft, particularly combined with the characteristic trigger discipline required by many Soviet planes.
 +
 
 +
Overall, the plane will prove to be reliable during mid-low altitude manoeuvres and lethal under the control of an ace pilot - a unique variant deserving collecting!
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
 +
This Soviet P-39N-0 is a low altitude fighter. Its Allison V-1710-85 engine can produce up to 1,350 HP on WEP, however, it has only a single-stage, single-speed supercharger. Because of that, the plane performs optimally at low altitude (<4,000 m): at sea level, it can reach up to 575 km/h, with a maximum level speed of 644 km/h at 3,048 m. Thanks to that, it can outperform many other fighters like the early versions of Bf 109 or other American planes at that altitude range. The climb performance is decent, getting to 4,500 m should take about 4 minutes when flying with WEP enabled and full fuel tanks; below 1,000 m it can reach ~23 m/s. That puts it almost on par with some Bf 109 versions or the Yak-9, but only up to a certain altitude. Due to the engine limits, after flying for 5 minutes with WEP enabled it might start to overheat, especially with closed radiators. Reducing the propeller pitch to 90-95% and opening its radiators to 15-20% or more will significantly increase the length of time it can fly at full power.
 +
 +
Manoeuvrability-wise the Cobra is a decent plane. It can perform a full horizontal circle at 1,000 m in 18 seconds, but once it climbs above the altitude where its engine performs the best, the sustained turn rate will be getting worse due to insufficient power. However, even at low altitudes, it will not be able to outturn most Japanese fighters. The plane also locks up quite a lot above 600 km/h IAS, although it is very good at diving, its structural speed is {{Specs|destruction|body}} km/h, which is excellent compared to the other fighters at similar battle rating. Its roll rate is slightly improved compared to the American [[P-39N-0|N-0]] version because of the removal of the wing-mounted machine guns, at 400 km/h IAS it can reach ~90°/s, and 75°/s at 600 km/h IAS. The turn rate performance can be improved by using flaps, depending on the situation up to even ~20% at the cost of much higher drag. They can be extended to combat, take-off, or landing position, but their speed limit is quite low, up to 425 km/h IAS, losing them during the fight will significantly decrease the plane's dogfighting capabilities.
 +
 +
'''Simulator performance'''
 +
 +
In Simulator battles, the P-39 is a very stable plane. Unlike many other propeller-driven planes it does not require so much trimming to keep it steady, but remember the engine torque will be pushing the plane to the left; this will be more noticeable during WEP, so for cruising reduce the throttle to 90% for optimal flight performance, handling and fuel consumption.
 +
 +
The stalling characteristics can be violent and almost unrecoverable, it will reaching maximum AoA (Angle of Attack) at ~55% elevator deflection, or at 70% with combat flaps. After exceeding the maximum AoA, the plane will stall and then spin within a few seconds. Recovering from that state will take another few seconds or become almost impossible depending on the fuel loadout (the more fuel, the harder to recover) and it is possible to lose even 1,500 m of altitude during that.
 +
 +
{{Notice|For better control, proceed to a test flight, trim the aircraft while cruising and save the trimming configuration.}}
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| 614 || 595 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 18.9 || 19.9 || 11.0 || 11.0 || rowspan="2" | 280
+
| 616 || 595 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 18.9 || 19.9 || 11.0 || 11.0 || rowspan="2" | 280
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| 682 || 644 || 17.8 || 18.0 || 21.7 || 15.4
+
| 683 || 644 || 17.8 || 18.0 || 21.7 || 15.4
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 450 || 450 || 240 || ~12 || ~9
+
| 886 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 426 || 396 || 241 || ~13 || ~9
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
| < 360 || < 380 || < 450 || > 312
 
| < 360 || < 380 || < 450 || > 312
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 2,800 m || 1,125 hp || 1,446 hp
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
−
''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Armour plates
 +
 
 +
* 15.87 mm (5°) Steel - Propeller hub
 +
* 15.87 mm (15°) - Plate in front of the cockpit
 +
* 7 mm (67°) Steel - Plate over instrument cluster
 +
* 6 mm (5-16°) Steel - Upper pilot's seat and headrest encasement
 +
* 6 mm (5°) Steel - Rear tail
 +
* 38 mm (71°) Bulletproof glass - Windscreen
 +
* 64 mm (5°) Bulletproof glass - Headrest of pilot's seat
 +
 
 +
;Critical components
 +
 
 +
* The engine is located behind the pilot
 +
* Cooling systems are under the engine and in the middle of the the tail section.
 +
* Self-sealing fuel tanks are located at the root of each wing.
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{main|M4 (37 mm)|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}
 
{{main|M4 (37 mm)|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}
  
−
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
+
'''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
 
* 1 x 37 mm M4 cannon, nose-mounted (30 rpg)
 
* 1 x 37 mm M4 cannon, nose-mounted (30 rpg)
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== 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).''
+
<!-- ''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 Russian P-39N works basically like the American version, the only difference being lower mass due to removed machine guns and slightly improved roll and turn rate as a result. In Realistic battles it can take advantage of excellent low altitude performance, most low tier battles in which it will participate will take place there. Climbing in this plane is not an issue, it can get to 5,000 m in slightly over 4 minutes, so after reaching it will most likely encounter other fighters like the Bf 109 E/F, or the American counterparts at similar altitude.
 +
 
 +
Committing to extended dogfighting against any planes is not recommended, at its battle rating it can be out-turned by several more nimble planes such as the Japanese [[A6M3|Zero]], the British [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfires]] and the Italian [[Re.2001 CN]]. In these scenarios it is best to keep up its speed, which in some cases is even 100 km/h higher compared to other fighters, then try to [[Boom & Zoom|Boom and Zoom]] or perform chandelle manoeuvres with smart MEC usage.
 +
 
 +
The 37 mm cannon has low rate of fire and somewhat low muzzle velocity, so it is best to surprise-attack slower targets such as heavy fighters, attackers, and bombers. Going head-on with most other heavily armed planes like the [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]] or [[Fw 190 A-1]] will end up badly; the armament is too unreliable for that. Head-ons should be performed skillfully as last resort versus enemies with a nimble and weaker airframe such as the previously mentioned dogfighters.
 +
 
 +
=== Enemies worth nothing ===
 +
Against German aircraft it might struggle a little bit, the Bf 109 has better climb and is also better at instant turning so in most situations it is just best to start using the superior level speed from 0 to 4,000 m, or go for a very shallow dive, they will not be able to keep up because of lower structural speed. The only concern can be the [[Fw 190 A-1]], its level speed is almost as high and gets higher above 5,000 m, the best way to win against them is just by using the superior turn rate, but the player should still be careful, the Fw 190 has a great roll rate, it might try to make the other planes overshoot.
 +
 
 +
Against Britain, the only planes that pose a major challenge are the Spitfire variants. Their turn rate is far superior, the climb rate is also very similar, although they are worse in firepower and durability, and will also suffer from overheating issues in any prolonged fight (especially on desert maps), so they will start bleeding their speed very fast or otherwise damage their engine. In most cases, it is best to go for Boom and Zoom or high-speed Hit and Run tactics.
 +
 
 +
Against Italy, the only planes that can cause any problems are the [[C.202]] and [[C.205 (Family)|C.205 series]]. The C.202 is a much slower plane, its climb rate is also worse and the turn rate of the version with cannons very similar, it can be dealt with by either Boom and Zooming it or just dogfighting, but it is not recommended unless there are no other planes around, as it will make the plane slow and easy to shoot down, using the speed advantage is much less risky. The C.205 is a harder enemy to deal with, its level speed is still slower, by ~30-40 km/h (depending on the version), but the climb rate performance is the same, it also gets faster above ~4,500 m. Both the Cobra and Macchi have also very similar turn rate, dogfighting in this situation will mostly depend on the player's skill, but the C.205 has a much easier time with snapshots and high angle attacks. In addition, the cannon version is equipped with three 20 mm cannons, going head-to-head will almost certainly end badly, so after the encounter at similar altitude the P-39 will most likely be pushed to a defensive position, although it can still run away, the structural speed limit is higher by 80 km/h and the lower it gets in altitude, the higher chance the Cobra has for winning.
 +
 
 +
=== Simulator battles ===
 +
In Simulator battles, its capabilities are limited by subpar visibility from its cockpit and the position of its gun sight, which is very low. This makes high angle attacks and leading the target harder.
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Great acceleration
+
* Great acceleration and great top speed in dive
−
* Decent climb
+
* Good climb rate at low altitude
−
* Great top speed at sea level
+
* Great top speed up to 4,000 m
−
* Decent roll
+
* Decent roll rate
−
* Decent vertical manoeuvrability and horizontal manoeuvrability
+
* Decent vertical and horizontal manoeuvrability
−
* 37 mm cannon does a lot of damage if it hits enemy aircraft
+
* 37 mm cannon does a lot of damage when hitting enemy aircraft
−
* Great top speed in dive
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
 
* Rudder stiffens at high speed
 
* Rudder stiffens at high speed
−
* 37 mm cannon has slow velocity which makes it hard to aim
+
* Mediocre armament, low cannon's rate of fire and only two machine guns
 +
* 37 mm cannon has slow velocity which makes it hard to lead
 
* Poor high altitude performance
 
* Poor high altitude performance
  
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<!-- ''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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
  
−
=== In-game description ===
+
{{break}}
 +
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}|expand=true}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 
Bell's P-39 Airacobra was a WWII-era American fighter that was notable for its uncommon design: the engine was placed behind the cockpit, and the landing gear moved from the tail to the nose. The aircraft was adopted by five countries: USA, Britain, Soviet Union, Portugal and Australia.
 
Bell's P-39 Airacobra was a WWII-era American fighter that was notable for its uncommon design: the engine was placed behind the cockpit, and the landing gear moved from the tail to the nose. The aircraft was adopted by five countries: USA, Britain, Soviet Union, Portugal and Australia.
  
 
The P-39N was the first variant to be mass produced, with the P-39N-0 getting a new V-1710-85(E19) engine and a 3-blade Aeroproducts propeller with a 3.15 meter diameter. Starting from aircraft #167, some fuel tanks were removed from the wings to reduce weight, and a connection for additional fuel tanks was installed under the hull. To further increase flight performance, Soviet engineers often removed the wing-mounted machine guns, leaving two nose machine guns and a cannon.
 
The P-39N was the first variant to be mass produced, with the P-39N-0 getting a new V-1710-85(E19) engine and a 3-blade Aeroproducts propeller with a 3.15 meter diameter. Starting from aircraft #167, some fuel tanks were removed from the wings to reduce weight, and a connection for additional fuel tanks was installed under the hull. To further increase flight performance, Soviet engineers often removed the wing-mounted machine guns, leaving two nose machine guns and a cannon.
  
−
As this variant, Bell produced 2,095 aircraft. Most of these were sent to the Soviet Union on the US's Lend-Lease program. In November 1942, the USSR received the first Airacobras, and the fighters showed good results in battle maneuvers at low and moderate altitudes. Many famous Soviet aces — such as Pokrishkin Alexander Ivanovich, Rechkalov Gregory Andreevich, Gulaev Dmitry Nikolaevich and Kutakhov Pavel Stepanovich — piloted the Airacobras during WWII.
+
As this variant, Bell produced 2,095 aircraft. Most of these were sent to the Soviet Union on the US's Lend-Lease program. In November 1942, the USSR received the first Airacobras, and the fighters showed good results in battle manoeuvres at low and moderate altitudes. Many famous Soviet aces — such as Pokrishkin Alexander Ivanovich, Rechkalov Gregory Andreevich, Gulaev Dmitry Nikolaevich and Kutakhov Pavel Stepanovich — piloted the Airacobras during WWII.
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
=== Notable pilots ===
 
=== Notable pilots ===
−
 
+
[[File:Alexander_Pokryshkin_profile.jpg|thumb|none|200px|link=User:U64962917#Pokryshkin,_Alexander_I.|[[User:U64962917#Pokryshkin,_Alexander_I.|Alexander Pokryshkin]] changed to the '''P-39N''' aircraft after his P-39K was damaged by an Il-2 which inadvertently fired its guns during a rough landing.]]
−
<div><ul>
 
−
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:Alexander_Pokryshkin_profile.jpg|thumb|none|200px|link=User:U64962917#Pokryshkin,_Alexander_I.|[[User:U64962917#Pokryshkin,_Alexander_I.|Alexander Pokryshkin]] changed to the '''P-39N''' aircraft after his P-39K was damaged by an Il-2 which inadvertenly fired its guns during a rough landing.]] </li>
 
−
</ul></div>
 
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
{{Youtube-gallery|k0xWIrlYSr4|'''The Shooting Range #55''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:35 discusses the Soviet P-39.}}
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=p-39n_su Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|lzVTOvAGEck|'''"Crushing Teams /// Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 1.93 Gameplay''' - ''DEFYN''|k0xWIrlYSr4|'''The Shooting Range #55''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:35 discusses the Soviet P-39.|oIvS2CmTedA|'''Premium Review: Pokryshkin's P-39N-0''' - ''Jengar''}}
  
 
== 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 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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
 +
 
 +
* [[P-63 (Family)]]
 +
* [[Yak-9 (Family)]]
 +
* [[Yak-1 (Family)]]
 +
 
 +
;Other US-supplied Soviet fighters
 +
 
 +
* [[P-40E-1 (USSR)]]
 +
* [[P-47D-27 (USSR)]]
  
 
== 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 aircraft;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/314748-bell-p-39n-0-su/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 +
 
 +
{{Sp-begin|Obtainable events}}
 +
<div align="left">
 +
* 2013 - [[wt:en/news/104--en|Ace of the Month: Alexander Pokryshkin]]
 +
* 2014 - [[wt:en/news/492--en|Aleksandr Pokryshkin - the air tactician]]
 +
* 2015 - [[wt:en/news/2912--en|[Special] Pokryshkin's P-39]]
 +
* 2016 - [[wt:en/news/3641-special-v-for-victory-en|[Special] V for Victory!]]
 +
* 2017 - No news announcement but the sale took place
 +
* 2018 - [[wt:en/news/5405-news-birthday-of-alexander-pokryshkin-en|[News] Birthday of Alexander Pokryshkin]]
 +
* 2019 - [[wt:en/news/6108-news-birthday-of-alexander-pokryshkin-en|[News] Birthday of Alexander Pokryshkin]]
 +
* 2020 - [[wt:en/news/6648-news-alexander-pokryshkin-s-birthday-en|[News] Alexander Pokryshkin's birthday]]
 +
* 2021 - [[wt:en/news/7097-p39n-0-for-alexander-pokryshkin-s-birthday-en|P39N-0 for Alexander Pokryshkin's birthday]]
 +
</div>
 +
{{Sp-end}}
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Bell}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Bell}}
 
{{USSR fighters}}
 
{{USSR fighters}}
 
{{USSR premium aircraft}}
 
{{USSR premium aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 20:29, 8 March 2024

Introducing Wiki 3.0
This page is about the gift Soviet fighter Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 (USSR). For the American version, see P-39N-0. For other versions, see P-39 (Family).
▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0
p-39n_su.png
GarageImage Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 (USSR).jpg
360://https://old-wiki.warthunder.com/images/e/ea/Cockpit_p-39n_su.jpg
▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0
USSR flag.png USSR
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.3 3.0 3.0
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift

Description

▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 Airacobra is a premium gift rank III Soviet fighter with a battle rating of 3.3 (AB) and 3.0 (RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.31 and has been made available yearly for Aleksandr Pokryshkin's birthday in the store and in-game for Golden Eagles Ge icon.png since 2013.

The plane is painted after the camouflage scheme of Soviet ace pilot Alexander Pokryshkin in the 16th Guards Fighter Regiment, who scored most of his aerial victories in a lend-lease P-39. It differs from the regular P-39N-0 by the removal of all 4 wing-mounted .30 cal machine guns. This increases the overall performance of the plane, with almost no shortcomings.

This air-superiority fighter is able to dodge several enemies at once, prominently with the tactical use of turn fighting. The firepower, although reduced, is powerful and accurate thanks to the nose-mounted 37 mm M4 cannon. The 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns are fit for pilots seeking to engage numerous aircraft, particularly combined with the characteristic trigger discipline required by many Soviet planes.

Overall, the plane will prove to be reliable during mid-low altitude manoeuvres and lethal under the control of an ace pilot - a unique variant deserving collecting!

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 3 048 m644 km/h
Turn time18 s
Max altitude9 700 m
EngineAllison V-1710-85
TypeInline
Cooling systemWater
Take-off weight5 t

This Soviet P-39N-0 is a low altitude fighter. Its Allison V-1710-85 engine can produce up to 1,350 HP on WEP, however, it has only a single-stage, single-speed supercharger. Because of that, the plane performs optimally at low altitude (<4,000 m): at sea level, it can reach up to 575 km/h, with a maximum level speed of 644 km/h at 3,048 m. Thanks to that, it can outperform many other fighters like the early versions of Bf 109 or other American planes at that altitude range. The climb performance is decent, getting to 4,500 m should take about 4 minutes when flying with WEP enabled and full fuel tanks; below 1,000 m it can reach ~23 m/s. That puts it almost on par with some Bf 109 versions or the Yak-9, but only up to a certain altitude. Due to the engine limits, after flying for 5 minutes with WEP enabled it might start to overheat, especially with closed radiators. Reducing the propeller pitch to 90-95% and opening its radiators to 15-20% or more will significantly increase the length of time it can fly at full power.

Manoeuvrability-wise the Cobra is a decent plane. It can perform a full horizontal circle at 1,000 m in 18 seconds, but once it climbs above the altitude where its engine performs the best, the sustained turn rate will be getting worse due to insufficient power. However, even at low altitudes, it will not be able to outturn most Japanese fighters. The plane also locks up quite a lot above 600 km/h IAS, although it is very good at diving, its structural speed is 0 km/h, which is excellent compared to the other fighters at similar battle rating. Its roll rate is slightly improved compared to the American N-0 version because of the removal of the wing-mounted machine guns, at 400 km/h IAS it can reach ~90°/s, and 75°/s at 600 km/h IAS. The turn rate performance can be improved by using flaps, depending on the situation up to even ~20% at the cost of much higher drag. They can be extended to combat, take-off, or landing position, but their speed limit is quite low, up to 425 km/h IAS, losing them during the fight will significantly decrease the plane's dogfighting capabilities.

Simulator performance

In Simulator battles, the P-39 is a very stable plane. Unlike many other propeller-driven planes it does not require so much trimming to keep it steady, but remember the engine torque will be pushing the plane to the left; this will be more noticeable during WEP, so for cruising reduce the throttle to 90% for optimal flight performance, handling and fuel consumption.

The stalling characteristics can be violent and almost unrecoverable, it will reaching maximum AoA (Angle of Attack) at ~55% elevator deflection, or at 70% with combat flaps. After exceeding the maximum AoA, the plane will stall and then spin within a few seconds. Recovering from that state will take another few seconds or become almost impossible depending on the fuel loadout (the more fuel, the harder to recover) and it is possible to lose even 1,500 m of altitude during that.

Msg-info.png For better control, proceed to a test flight, trim the aircraft while cruising and save the trimming configuration.
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 3,048 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 616 595 9700 18.9 19.9 11.0 11.0 280
Upgraded 683 644 17.8 18.0 21.7 15.4

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 + -
886 322 426 396 241 ~13 ~9
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 360 < 380 < 450 > 312

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear322 km/h
Armour plates
  • 15.87 mm (5°) Steel - Propeller hub
  • 15.87 mm (15°) - Plate in front of the cockpit
  • 7 mm (67°) Steel - Plate over instrument cluster
  • 6 mm (5-16°) Steel - Upper pilot's seat and headrest encasement
  • 6 mm (5°) Steel - Rear tail
  • 38 mm (71°) Bulletproof glass - Windscreen
  • 64 mm (5°) Bulletproof glass - Headrest of pilot's seat
Critical components
  • The engine is located behind the pilot
  • Cooling systems are under the engine and in the middle of the the tail section.
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks are located at the root of each wing.

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB1 027 Sl icon.png
RB5 611 Sl icon.png
SB1 746 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts67 000 Sl icon.png
Aces400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces570 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 60 / 230 / 310 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 136 / 136 / 136 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
bmg50_new_gun
Mods weapon.png
m4_new_gun

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 137 mm M4 cannon
Ammunition30 rounds
Fire rate150 shots/min
Weapon 22 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun
Ammunition400 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
Main articles: M4 (37 mm), M2 Browning (12.7 mm)

Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 (USSR) is armed with:

  • 1 x 37 mm M4 cannon, nose-mounted (30 rpg)
  • 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)

Usage in battles

The Russian P-39N works basically like the American version, the only difference being lower mass due to removed machine guns and slightly improved roll and turn rate as a result. In Realistic battles it can take advantage of excellent low altitude performance, most low tier battles in which it will participate will take place there. Climbing in this plane is not an issue, it can get to 5,000 m in slightly over 4 minutes, so after reaching it will most likely encounter other fighters like the Bf 109 E/F, or the American counterparts at similar altitude.

Committing to extended dogfighting against any planes is not recommended, at its battle rating it can be out-turned by several more nimble planes such as the Japanese Zero, the British Spitfires and the Italian Re.2001 CN. In these scenarios it is best to keep up its speed, which in some cases is even 100 km/h higher compared to other fighters, then try to Boom and Zoom or perform chandelle manoeuvres with smart MEC usage.

The 37 mm cannon has low rate of fire and somewhat low muzzle velocity, so it is best to surprise-attack slower targets such as heavy fighters, attackers, and bombers. Going head-on with most other heavily armed planes like the Bf 109 or Fw 190 A-1 will end up badly; the armament is too unreliable for that. Head-ons should be performed skillfully as last resort versus enemies with a nimble and weaker airframe such as the previously mentioned dogfighters.

Enemies worth nothing

Against German aircraft it might struggle a little bit, the Bf 109 has better climb and is also better at instant turning so in most situations it is just best to start using the superior level speed from 0 to 4,000 m, or go for a very shallow dive, they will not be able to keep up because of lower structural speed. The only concern can be the Fw 190 A-1, its level speed is almost as high and gets higher above 5,000 m, the best way to win against them is just by using the superior turn rate, but the player should still be careful, the Fw 190 has a great roll rate, it might try to make the other planes overshoot.

Against Britain, the only planes that pose a major challenge are the Spitfire variants. Their turn rate is far superior, the climb rate is also very similar, although they are worse in firepower and durability, and will also suffer from overheating issues in any prolonged fight (especially on desert maps), so they will start bleeding their speed very fast or otherwise damage their engine. In most cases, it is best to go for Boom and Zoom or high-speed Hit and Run tactics.

Against Italy, the only planes that can cause any problems are the C.202 and C.205 series. The C.202 is a much slower plane, its climb rate is also worse and the turn rate of the version with cannons very similar, it can be dealt with by either Boom and Zooming it or just dogfighting, but it is not recommended unless there are no other planes around, as it will make the plane slow and easy to shoot down, using the speed advantage is much less risky. The C.205 is a harder enemy to deal with, its level speed is still slower, by ~30-40 km/h (depending on the version), but the climb rate performance is the same, it also gets faster above ~4,500 m. Both the Cobra and Macchi have also very similar turn rate, dogfighting in this situation will mostly depend on the player's skill, but the C.205 has a much easier time with snapshots and high angle attacks. In addition, the cannon version is equipped with three 20 mm cannons, going head-to-head will almost certainly end badly, so after the encounter at similar altitude the P-39 will most likely be pushed to a defensive position, although it can still run away, the structural speed limit is higher by 80 km/h and the lower it gets in altitude, the higher chance the Cobra has for winning.

Simulator battles

In Simulator battles, its capabilities are limited by subpar visibility from its cockpit and the position of its gun sight, which is very low. This makes high angle attacks and leading the target harder.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Great acceleration and great top speed in dive
  • Good climb rate at low altitude
  • Great top speed up to 4,000 m
  • Decent roll rate
  • Decent vertical and horizontal manoeuvrability
  • 37 mm cannon does a lot of damage when hitting enemy aircraft

Cons:

  • Rudder stiffens at high speed
  • Mediocre armament, low cannon's rate of fire and only two machine guns
  • 37 mm cannon has slow velocity which makes it hard to lead
  • Poor high altitude performance

History


Archive of the in-game description

Bell's P-39 Airacobra was a WWII-era American fighter that was notable for its uncommon design: the engine was placed behind the cockpit, and the landing gear moved from the tail to the nose. The aircraft was adopted by five countries: USA, Britain, Soviet Union, Portugal and Australia.

The P-39N was the first variant to be mass produced, with the P-39N-0 getting a new V-1710-85(E19) engine and a 3-blade Aeroproducts propeller with a 3.15 meter diameter. Starting from aircraft #167, some fuel tanks were removed from the wings to reduce weight, and a connection for additional fuel tanks was installed under the hull. To further increase flight performance, Soviet engineers often removed the wing-mounted machine guns, leaving two nose machine guns and a cannon.

As this variant, Bell produced 2,095 aircraft. Most of these were sent to the Soviet Union on the US's Lend-Lease program. In November 1942, the USSR received the first Airacobras, and the fighters showed good results in battle manoeuvres at low and moderate altitudes. Many famous Soviet aces — such as Pokrishkin Alexander Ivanovich, Rechkalov Gregory Andreevich, Gulaev Dmitry Nikolaevich and Kutakhov Pavel Stepanovich — piloted the Airacobras during WWII.


Notable pilots

Alexander Pokryshkin changed to the P-39N aircraft after his P-39K was damaged by an Il-2 which inadvertently fired its guns during a rough landing.

Media

Skins
Videos
"Crushing Teams /// Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 1.93 Gameplay - DEFYN
The Shooting Range #55 - Pages of History section at 03:35 discusses the Soviet P-39.
Premium Review: Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 - Jengar

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
Other US-supplied Soviet fighters

External links


Obtainable events


Bell Aircraft Corporation
Aircraft 
Fighters  P-39N-0 · P-39Q-5
  P-400
  P-63A-10 · P-63A-5 · P-63C-5 · ␠Kingcobra
Jet Fighters  P-59A
Export  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15 · ▄P-39Q-25
  ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5 · ▄P-63C-5
Helicopters 
Attack  AH-1F · AH-1G · AH-1Z · AH-1W
  OH-58D
Utility  UH-1B · UH-1C · UH-1C XM-30
Export/Licensed  ▅UH-1B · ◄UH-1D
  Tzefa A · Tzefa B · Tzefa D/E · ▅AH-1S early · ▅AH-1S · ▅AH-1S Kisarazu · ␗AH-1W
  ␗OH-58D
See Also  Fuji Heavy Industries · Agusta

USSR fighters
I-15  I-15 WR · I-15 M-22 · I-15 M-25 · I-15bis · Krasnolutsky's I-15bis
  I-153 M-62 · Zhukovsky's I-153-M62 · I-153P
I-16  I-16 type 5 · I-16 type 10 · I-16 type 18 · I-16 type 24 · I-16 type 27 · I-16 type 28 · I-180S
I-29  I-29
I-185  I-185 (M-71) · I-185 (M-82)
I-225  I-225
ITP  ITP (M-1)
MiG-3  MiG-3-15 · MiG-3-15 (BK) · MiG-3-34
LaGG  I-301 · LaGG-3-4 · LaGG-3-8 · LaGG-3-11 · LaGG-3-23 · LaGG-3-34 · LaGG-3-35 · LaGG-3-66
La  La-5 · La-5F · La-5FN · La-7 · Dolgushin's La-7 · La-7B-20 · La-9 · La-11
Yak-1/7  Yak-1 · Yak-1B · Yak-7B
Yak-3  Yak-3 · Eremin's Yak-3(e) · Yak-3P · Yak-3T · Yak-3U · Yak-3 (VK-107)
Yak-9  Yak-9 · Yak-9B · Golovachev's Yak-9M · Yak-9T · Yak-9K · Yak-9U · Yak-9UT · Yak-9P
Other countries  ▂P-40E-1 · ▂P-47D-27 · ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ▂Fw 190 D-9 · ▂Spitfire Mk IXc
P-39  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15
P-63  ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5

USSR premium aircraft
Fighters  Krasnolutsky's I-15bis · I-16 type 28 · Zhukovsky's I-153-M62 · I-153P · I-180S · I-301 · ITP (M-1)
  LaGG-3-4 · LaGG-3-23 · LaGG-3-34 · Dolgushin's La-7 · La-11
  Eremin's Yak-3(e) · Yak-3 (VK-107) · Yak-3T · Golovachev's Yak-9M
  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15 · ▂P-40E-1 · ▂P-47D-27 · ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5
  ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ▂Spitfire Mk IXc · ▂Fw 190 D-9
Twin-engine fighters  I-29
Jet fighters  Su-11 · MiG-15bis ISh · MiG-17AS · MiG-21S (R-13-300) · MiG-23ML
Strike aircraft  IL-2M "Avenger" · IL-2 M-82 · IL-8 (1944) · Su-6 · Tandem MAI · TIS MA · Su-8 · Tu-1
  Yak-38 · Su-7BMK · Su-25K · Su-39
Bombers  Po-2M · Be-6 · MBR-2-M-34 · Pe-2-205 · TB-3M-17-32
  ▂PBY-5A Catalina · ▂Hampden TB Mk I · ▂A-20G-30 · ▂B-25J-30

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