Difference between revisions of "F3F-2"

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(Updated as of 1.87.2.19)
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{{About
 
{{About
−
|about=aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = American fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
|usage=the premium version
+
| usage = the premium version
−
|link=Galer's F3F-2
+
| link = Galer's F3F-2
 
}}
 
}}
 +
 
== 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.'' -->
 
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
{{break}}
 
{{break}}
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a Rank {{Specs|rank}} American fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]].
  
−
The F3F-2 is, as of War Thunder patch 1.69, the sole American biplane fighter outside of its [[Galer's F3F-2|premium variant]]. However, it is a very capable biplane fighter, and can be seen in-game as a rival to the USSR's [[I-153 M-62|I-153 Chaika]].
+
The F3F-2 is, as of War Thunder patch 1.69, the sole American biplane fighter other than its [[Galer's F3F-2|premium variant]]. However, it is a very capable biplane fighter, and can be seen in-game as a rival to the USSR's [[I-153 M-62|I-153 Chaika]].
  
−
As expected with most Rank I fighters, but often considered "unusual" for an American fighter, the F3F is a pure bred turn fighter. Like the Chaika mentioned above, and the polar opposite in performance of the [[F2A-1|F2A]] that replaced it in service, the F3F can pull turns with relative ease, and also has a very excellent roll rate in addition to that, which when abused can provide a tough challenge for most of its opposition. It easily outclasses all reserve planes except the [[Ki-10-I|Ki-10]] in maneuverability, and is on par with the [[I-153 M-62|I-153]] in that matter as well. However, the F3F's BR can push it into the domain of [[Spitfire Mk Ia|Spitfires]], [[I-16 type 24|late-model I-16s]], [[Ki-43-I|Ki-43s]] (as well its bigger brother, the [[Ki-44-I|Ki-44]]) and of course [[Bf 109 E-3|Bf 109s]], all of which are capable of easily disposing of its biplane opposition. It isn't the fastest or most climbable fighter either.
+
As expected with most Rank I fighters, but often considered "unusual" for an American fighter, the F3F is a pure-bred turn fighter. Like the Chaika mentioned above, and the polar opposite in performance to the [[F2A-1|F2A]] that replaced it in service, the F3F can pull turns with relative ease, and also has a very excellent roll rate, which when abused can provide a tough challenge for most of its opposition. It easily outclasses all reserve planes except the [[Ki-10-I|Ki-10]] in manoeuvrability, and is on par with the [[I-153 M-62|I-153]] in that matter as well. However, the F3F's BR can push it into the domain of [[Spitfire Mk Ia|Spitfires]], [[I-16 type 24|late-model I-16s]], [[Ki-43-I|Ki-43s]] (as well its bigger brother, the [[Ki-44-I|Ki-44]]) and of course [[Bf 109 E-3|Bf 109s]], all of which are capable of easily disposing of their biplane opposition. It isn't the fastest or most climbable fighter either.
  
−
Due to its lackluster armament (one M2 Browning machine gun with 200 rounds and one 7.62 mm Browning machine gun with 500 rounds), the F3F should mainly go after the fighter opposition, and not after bombers-leave that job to the [[P-40E-1|P-40s]]. While it can carry two 100 lbs bombs, they are only effective against lightly armoured targets (armoured cars, artillery, AAA etc.), and if carried early on in the match can weigh the plane down, affecting its flight characteristics a bit as a result. Leave the bombs until either the opposition goes passive for a while or air superiority can be obtained for a period of time over an opposing field of ground targets.
+
Due to its lacklustre armament (one M2 Browning machine gun with 200 rounds and one 7.62 mm Browning machine gun with 500 rounds), the F3F should mainly go after the fighter opposition, and not after bombers - leave that job to the [[P-40E-1|P-40s]]. While it can carry two 100 lb bombs, they are only effective against lightly armoured targets (armoured cars, artillery, AAA etc.), and if carried early on in the match can weigh the plane down, affecting its flight characteristics a bit as a result. Leave the bombs until either the opposition goes passive for a while or air superiority can be obtained for a period of time over an opposing field of ground targets.
  
−
The F3F is armed with one [[Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2 Browning]] machine gun, and one 7.62 mm Browning machine gun, both are located within the nose of the aircraft right above the engine. While this does mean gun convergence is not an issue, the two-gun armament can be lacking in both firepower and ammunition count; the larger M2 has only 200 rounds to play with while the smaller 7.62 has 500 rounds on hand.
+
The F3F is armed with one [[Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2 Browning]] machine gun, and one [[Browning (7.62 mm)||7.62 mm Browning]] machine gun, both are located within the nose of the aircraft right above the engine. While this does mean gun convergence is not an issue, the two-gun armament can be lacking in both firepower and ammunition count; the larger M2 has only 200 rounds to play with while the smaller 7.62 has 500 rounds on hand.
  
−
Nevertheless, this armament is decent enough to take down reserve and lightly-armoured Rank I planes down with relative ease and, if an experienced player is behind the controls, is capable of dealing with even rank II aircraft.
+
Nevertheless, this armament is decent enough to take down reserve and lightly-armoured Rank I planes with relative ease and, if an experienced player is behind the controls, is capable of dealing with even rank II aircraft.
  
−
The best air-to-air belts for the 12.7 MG are either universal or stealth belts (good amount of incendiary bullets), and universal belts should be used for the 7.62 MG.
+
The best air-to-air belts for the 12.7 MG are either Universal or Stealth belts (good amount of incendiary bullets), and Universal belts should be used for the 7.62 MG.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
 
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
 
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
  
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! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
−
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! AB
 
! AB
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! RB
 
! RB
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 411 || 404 || 11,000 || 15.8 || 16.1 || 10.4 || 12.5 || 210
+
| 416 || 405 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 15.7 || 16.1 || 12.4 || 12.4 || 210
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,268 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,268 m)
−
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
−
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
+
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
−
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! AB
 
! AB
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! RB
 
! RB
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 461 || 436 || 11,000 || 14.3 || 15.0 || 24.3 || 16.0 || 210
+
| 458 || 436 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 14.4 || 15.0 || 20.9 || 16 || 210
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
====Details====
+
==== Details ====
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flap
+
! Combat flaps
−
! Take-off flap
+
! Take-off flaps
−
! Landing flap
+
! Landing flaps
 
! Air brakes
 
! Air brakes
 
! Arrestor gear
 
! Arrestor gear
 
|-
 
|-
−
| X || X || X || X || ✓   <!-- ✓ -->
+
| X || X || ✓ || X || ✓     <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Combat flaps<br>(km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
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! -
 
! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 703 || 500 || ??? || ~?? || ~8
+
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || 420 || ~13 || ~6
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < 320 || < 390 || < 350 || > 200
+
| < 320 || < 390 || < 350 || > 308
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 1,600 m || 850 hp || 952 hp  
+
| 1,600 m || 850 hp || 952 hp
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
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! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 4,214 m || 750 hp || 840 hp  
+
| 4,214 m || 750 hp || 840 hp
 
|-
 
|-
−
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 
−
|- -->
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
<!--Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, 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.'' -->
 
* 8.5 mm Steel boxes in the fuselage.
 
* 8.5 mm Steel boxes in the fuselage.
−
* No armour glazing
 
−
* Critical components located at front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls)
 
−
* More fuel tanks located in wings near fuselage
 
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
<!--Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|Browning (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|Browning (7.62 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
−
 
 
* 1 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine gun, nose-mounted (200 rpg)
 
* 1 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine gun, nose-mounted (200 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.62 mm Browning machine gun, nose-mounted (500 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.62 mm Browning machine gun, nose-mounted (500 rpg)
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
<!--Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)}}
 
{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)}}
  
−
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted externally with:
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
−
 
 
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
 
* 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
 
* 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
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''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but 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 an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but 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).''
  
−
===Manual Engine Control===
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" |Mixer
+
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
−
! rowspan="2" |Pitch
+
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
−
! colspan="3" |Radiator
+
! colspan="3" | Radiator
−
! rowspan="2" |Supercharger
+
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
−
! rowspan="2" |Turbocharger
+
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Oil
 
! Oil
 
! Water
 
! Water
−
! Type  
+
! Type
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" |Controllable<br>Auto radiator available|| rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>2 gears || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
===Modules===
+
=== Modules ===
 
For firepower modules, outside of upgrades for the machine guns, the unlock of the module ''Mk.41'' will allow the {{PAGENAME}} to mount two 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs.
 
For firepower modules, outside of upgrades for the machine guns, the unlock of the module ''Mk.41'' will allow the {{PAGENAME}} to mount two 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs.
  
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|-
 
|-
 
| I
 
| I
−
| Fuselage Repair
+
| Fuselage repair
 
| Radiator
 
| Radiator
−
|  
+
|
−
|  
+
|
−
| Offensive 7 mm  
+
| Offensive 7 mm
−
|  
+
|
 
|-
 
|-
 
| II
 
| II
−
|  
+
|
 
| Compressor
 
| Compressor
 
| Airframe
 
| Airframe
 
| Offensive 12 mm
 
| Offensive 12 mm
−
|  
+
|
 
| Mk.41
 
| Mk.41
 
|-
 
|-
 
| III
 
| III
−
|  
+
| Wings repair
 
| Engine
 
| Engine
−
|  
+
|
−
|  
+
|
 
| New 7 mm MGs
 
| New 7 mm MGs
−
|  
+
|
 
|-
 
|-
 
| IV
 
| IV
−
| Wings Repair
+
|
−
| Engine Injection
+
| Engine injection
 
| Cover
 
| Cover
 
| New 12 mm MGs
 
| New 12 mm MGs
−
|  
+
|
−
|  
+
|
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".-->
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
 
 
* Very good turn rate and roll rate
 
* Very good turn rate and roll rate
 
* Can be a deadly fighter with an experienced pilot behind the controls
 
* Can be a deadly fighter with an experienced pilot behind the controls
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'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
 
+
* Lacklustre armament (one 12.7 mm machine gun and one 7.62 mm machine gun)
−
* Lackluster armament (one 12.7 mm machine gun and one 7.62 mm machine gun)
 
 
* Not a very fast plane
 
* Not a very fast plane
 
* Doesn't have a very good climb rate
 
* Doesn't have a very good climb rate
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!--Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, 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></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== Encyclopedia Info ===</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).'' -->
−
 
+
The last biplane fighter in use by the United States Navy, the Grumman F3F first flew on 20 March 1935, and entered front-line service with VF-5B of USS ''Ranger'' the following March. The improved F3F-2 model-fitted with a more powerful Wright R-1820-22 Cyclone nine-cylinder engine-entered service between 1937-38 and proved to be the ultimate evolution of American biplane fighter design; it also earned the nickname "Flying Barrel" due to its modified engine cowling, which had to be larger to fit the new and bigger 1820 cubic-inch (29.88-litre) radial powerplant. The modifications allowed the updated fighter to accelerate to a higher top speed of 264 miles per hour (425 km/h), improved its climb rate from 2050 to 2750 ft/min (10.4 m/s to 13.7 m/s) and also expanded its service ceiling to 33,200 feet (10,120 m). Despite already being obsolete by the time it was introduced, Navy pilots loved the tough little Grumman fighter, and the F3F also influenced and provided a starting point for the design of Grumman's more successful wartime [[F4F-3|F4F Wildcat]] monoplane fighter.
−
The last biplane fighter in use by the United States Navy, the Grumman F3F first flew on 20 March 1935, and entered front-line service with VF-5B of USS ''Ranger'' the following March. The improved F3F-2 model-fitted with a more powerful Wright R-1820-22 Cyclone nine-cylinder engine-entered service between 1937-38 and proved to be the ultimate evolution of American biplane fighter design; it also earned the nickname "Flying Barrel" due to its modified engine cowling, which had to be larger to fit the new and bigger 1820 cubic-inch (29.88-litre) radial powerplant. The modifications allowed the updated fighter to accelerate to a higher top speed of 264 miles per hour (425 km/h), improved its clim brate from 2050 to 2750 ft/min (10.4 m/s to 13.7 m/s) and also expanded its service ceiling to 33,200 feet (10,120 m). Despite already being obsolete by the time it was introduced, Navy pilots loved the tough little Grumman fighter, and the F3F also influenced and provided a starting point for the design of Grumman's more successful wartime [[F4F-3|F4F Wildcat]] monoplane fighter.
 
  
 
Eighty-one F3F-2s were procured, and served with VF-6 aboard the USS ''Enterprise'' as well as Marine squadrons VMF-1 and VMF-2. The last F3Fs in front-line use by carrier squadrons were gone by 1941 (replaced by newer [[F2A-1|Brewster F2A Buffalo]] monoplanes), but remained in use for training and transport duties during the first two or so years of the United States' involvement in World War II, the last of which was retired in November 1943.
 
Eighty-one F3F-2s were procured, and served with VF-6 aboard the USS ''Enterprise'' as well as Marine squadrons VMF-1 and VMF-2. The last F3Fs in front-line use by carrier squadrons were gone by 1941 (replaced by newer [[F2A-1|Brewster F2A Buffalo]] monoplanes), but remained in use for training and transport duties during the first two or so years of the United States' involvement in World War II, the last of which was retired in November 1943.
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 
* [http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23f3f War Thunder Live camouflages for the F3F]
 
* [http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23f3f War Thunder Live camouflages for the F3F]
  
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== 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;''
 
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
−
* ''other literature.''-->
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grumman_F3F English Wikipedia article about the F3F]
 
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grumman_F3F English Wikipedia article about the F3F]
 
* [http://www.mucheswarbirds.com/F3Fart.html Some information on the F3F, in all its variants]
 
* [http://www.mucheswarbirds.com/F3Fart.html Some information on the F3F, in all its variants]
  
 
{{USA fighters}}
 
{{USA fighters}}

Revision as of 16:14, 24 May 2019

F3F-2
f3f-2.png
F3F-2
USA flag.png USA
I Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
1.7 1.3 1.3
Class:
Research:2 900 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:700 Specs-Card-Lion.png
This page is about the American fighter F3F-2. For the premium version, see Galer's F3F-2.

Description

GarageImage F3F-2.jpg


The F3F-2 is a rank I American fighter with a battle rating of 1.7 (AB) and 1.3 (RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.55 "Royal Armour".

The F3F-2 is, as of War Thunder patch 1.69, the sole American biplane fighter other than its premium variant. However, it is a very capable biplane fighter, and can be seen in-game as a rival to the USSR's I-153 Chaika.

As expected with most Rank I fighters, but often considered "unusual" for an American fighter, the F3F is a pure-bred turn fighter. Like the Chaika mentioned above, and the polar opposite in performance to the F2A that replaced it in service, the F3F can pull turns with relative ease, and also has a very excellent roll rate, which when abused can provide a tough challenge for most of its opposition. It easily outclasses all reserve planes except the Ki-10 in manoeuvrability, and is on par with the I-153 in that matter as well. However, the F3F's BR can push it into the domain of Spitfires, late-model I-16s, Ki-43s (as well its bigger brother, the Ki-44) and of course Bf 109s, all of which are capable of easily disposing of their biplane opposition. It isn't the fastest or most climbable fighter either.

Due to its lacklustre armament (one M2 Browning machine gun with 200 rounds and one 7.62 mm Browning machine gun with 500 rounds), the F3F should mainly go after the fighter opposition, and not after bombers - leave that job to the P-40s. While it can carry two 100 lb bombs, they are only effective against lightly armoured targets (armoured cars, artillery, AAA etc.), and if carried early on in the match can weigh the plane down, affecting its flight characteristics a bit as a result. Leave the bombs until either the opposition goes passive for a while or air superiority can be obtained for a period of time over an opposing field of ground targets.

The F3F is armed with one 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, and one |7.62 mm Browning machine gun, both are located within the nose of the aircraft right above the engine. While this does mean gun convergence is not an issue, the two-gun armament can be lacking in both firepower and ammunition count; the larger M2 has only 200 rounds to play with while the smaller 7.62 has 500 rounds on hand.

Nevertheless, this armament is decent enough to take down reserve and lightly-armoured Rank I planes with relative ease and, if an experienced player is behind the controls, is capable of dealing with even rank II aircraft.

The best air-to-air belts for the 12.7 MG are either Universal or Stealth belts (good amount of incendiary bullets), and Universal belts should be used for the 7.62 MG.

General info

Flight performance

Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.

Characteristics
Stock
Max Speed
(km/h at 4,268 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
416 405 10120 15.7 16.1 12.4 12.4 210
Upgraded
Max Speed
(km/h at 4,268 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
458 436 10120 14.4 15.0 20.9 16 210

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wing-break speed
(km/h) 		Gear limit
(km/h) 		Combat flaps
(km/h) 		Max Static G
+ -
420 ~13 ~6
Optimal velocities
Ailerons
(km/h) 		Rudder
(km/h) 		Elevators
(km/h) 		Radiator
(km/h)
< 320 < 390 < 350 > 308
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
1,600 m 850 hp 952 hp
Setting 2
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
4,214 m 750 hp 840 hp

Survivability and armour

  • 8.5 mm Steel boxes in the fuselage.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main articles: Browning M2 (12.7 mm), Browning (7.62 mm)

The F3F-2 is armed with:

  • 1 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine gun, nose-mounted (200 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.62 mm Browning machine gun, nose-mounted (500 rpg)

Suspended armament

Main article: AN-M30A1 (100 lb)

The F3F-2 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)

Usage in battles

Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but 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).

Manual Engine Control

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

Modules

For firepower modules, outside of upgrades for the machine guns, the unlock of the module Mk.41 will allow the F3F-2 to mount two 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs.

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage repair Radiator Offensive 7 mm
II Compressor Airframe Offensive 12 mm Mk.41
III Wings repair Engine New 7 mm MGs
IV Engine injection Cover New 12 mm MGs

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Very good turn rate and roll rate
  • Can be a deadly fighter with an experienced pilot behind the controls
  • Capable of dealing with most reserve or rank I aircraft
  • Can land on carriers, which comes in handy
  • Massive fuel load

Cons:

  • Lacklustre armament (one 12.7 mm machine gun and one 7.62 mm machine gun)
  • Not a very fast plane
  • Doesn't have a very good climb rate

History

The last biplane fighter in use by the United States Navy, the Grumman F3F first flew on 20 March 1935, and entered front-line service with VF-5B of USS Ranger the following March. The improved F3F-2 model-fitted with a more powerful Wright R-1820-22 Cyclone nine-cylinder engine-entered service between 1937-38 and proved to be the ultimate evolution of American biplane fighter design; it also earned the nickname "Flying Barrel" due to its modified engine cowling, which had to be larger to fit the new and bigger 1820 cubic-inch (29.88-litre) radial powerplant. The modifications allowed the updated fighter to accelerate to a higher top speed of 264 miles per hour (425 km/h), improved its climb rate from 2050 to 2750 ft/min (10.4 m/s to 13.7 m/s) and also expanded its service ceiling to 33,200 feet (10,120 m). Despite already being obsolete by the time it was introduced, Navy pilots loved the tough little Grumman fighter, and the F3F also influenced and provided a starting point for the design of Grumman's more successful wartime F4F Wildcat monoplane fighter.

Eighty-one F3F-2s were procured, and served with VF-6 aboard the USS Enterprise as well as Marine squadrons VMF-1 and VMF-2. The last F3Fs in front-line use by carrier squadrons were gone by 1941 (replaced by newer Brewster F2A Buffalo monoplanes), but remained in use for training and transport duties during the first two or so years of the United States' involvement in World War II, the last of which was retired in November 1943.

Media

See also

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

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

External links


USA fighters
P-26 Peashooter  P-26A-33 · P-26A-34 · P-26A-34 M2 · P-26B-35
P-36 Hawk  P-36A · Rasmussen's P-36A · P-36C · ○P-36C · P-36G
P-39 Airacobra  P-400 · P-39N-0 · P-39Q-5
P-40  P-40C · P-40E-1 · P-40E-1 TD · P-40F-10
P-43 Lancer  P-43A-1
P-47 Thunderbolt  P-47D-22-RE · P-47D-25 · P-47D-28 · P-47M-1-RE · ⋠P-47M-1-RE · P-47N-15
P-51 Mustang  P-51 · P-51A (Thunder League) · P-51C-10 · P-51D-5 · P-51D-10 · P-51D-20-NA · P-51D-30 · P-51H-5-NA
P-63 Kingcobra  P-63A-5 · P-63A-10 · P-63C-5 · ␠Kingcobra
Prototypes  XP-55
F2A Buffalo  F2A-1 · Thach's F2A-1 · F2A-3
BF2C  BF2C-1
F3F  F3F-2 · Galer's F3F-2
F4F Wildcat  F4F-3 · F4F-4
F4U Corsair  F4U-1A · F4U-1A (USMC) · F4U-1D · F4U-1C · F4U-4 · F4U-4B · F4U-4B VMF-214 · F2G-1
F6F Hellcat  F6F-5 · F6F-5N
F8F Bearcat  F8F-1 · F8F-1B
Other countries  ▃Ki-43-II · ▃Ki-61-Ib · ▃A6M2 · ▃Bf 109 F-4 · ▃Fw 190 A-8 · ▃Spitfire LF Mk IXc

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