Difference between revisions of "P-51D-5"

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{{About
 
{{About
−
|about= aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = American fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
|usage= other uses
+
| usage = other versions
−
|link= P-51 (Family)
+
| link = P-51 (Family)
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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 in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.29.
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.
  
−
The P-51D is, undoubtedly, the shining star of the USAF branch. With its sleek laminar-flow wing, classic American M2 Brownings, high-visibility cockpit, and immensely powerful engine, the P-51 is most definitely a force to be reckoned with. It is endowed with very good high-altitude traits, endurance, and speed. Use it accordingly.  
+
The P-51D is, undoubtedly, the shining star of the USAF branch. With its sleek laminar-flow wing, classic American M2 Brownings, high-visibility cockpit, and immensely powerful engine, the P-51 is most definitely a force to be reckoned with. It is endowed with very good high-altitude traits, endurance, and speed. Use it accordingly.
  
 
[[File:HistoricImage P51 assembly.jpg|thumbnail|left|P-51D on the Inglewood assembly line, the fully “semi-monocoque” fuselage lowered on the one piece wing. ''From'' -> "[https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/264749-historical-structures-of-aircraft/ Structures of aircraft]" article]]
 
[[File:HistoricImage P51 assembly.jpg|thumbnail|left|P-51D on the Inglewood assembly line, the fully “semi-monocoque” fuselage lowered on the one piece wing. ''From'' -> "[https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/264749-historical-structures-of-aircraft/ Structures of aircraft]" article]]
  
−
As standard with the USAAF, the Mustang has six M2 Browning in the wing. It can load bombs and rockets like most other planes in the USAAF. The armament, though effective, still requires patience to master. The M2s have a great range, but the damage decreases substantially as your proximity from your opponent increases. It is best to shoot for the engines and wings of any plane, because fuselage shots will waste your ammunition.
+
As standard with the USAAF, the Mustang has six M2 Browning machine guns in the wings. It can load bombs and rockets like most other planes in the USAAF. The armament, though effective, still requires patience to master. The M2s have a great range, but the damage decreases substantially as your proximity from your opponent increases. It is best to shoot for the engines and wings of any plane, because fuselage shots will waste your ammunition.
  
−
The armament is pretty versatile: The 12.7 mm M2 machine guns can easily destroy most soft targets: [[:Category:Light tanks|Light tanks]], AAA, [[:Category:Anti-aircraft vehicles|SPAA]], soft ground units, artillery, etc. Against bombers and heavy fighters the incendiary rounds will effectively set them alight.  
+
The armament is pretty versatile; the 12.7 mm M2 machine guns can easily destroy most soft targets: [[:Category:Light tanks|light tanks]], AAA, [[:Category:Anti-aircraft vehicles|SPAA]], soft ground units, artillery, etc. Against bombers and heavy fighters the incendiary rounds will effectively set them alight.
  
−
The ground attack capability of the Mustang is notable, as it can carry 2 heavy 1000 lb. bombs, as well as 6 rockets. Thus, the Mustang is also an effective attacker/ground attack aircraft.
+
The ground attack capability of the Mustang is notable, as it can carry 2 heavy 1000 lb bombs, as well as 6 rockets. Thus, the Mustang is also an effective attacker/ground attack aircraft.
  
 
== 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
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 672 || 653 || 12,700 || 24.4 || 24.8 || 12.8 || 14.7 || 396
+
| 673 || 652 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.0 || 24.9 || 14.9 || 14.9 || 396
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 7,620 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 7,620 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
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 724 || 698 || 12,700 || 21.7 || 23.0 || 25.2 || 18.0 || 396
+
| 724 || 698 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.0 || 23.0 || 21.7 || 18 || 396
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
====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
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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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! -
 
! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 821 || 281 || 651 || ~16 || ~7
+
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || 644 || ~10 || ~4
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < 460 || < 425 || < 440 || > 257
+
| < 500 || < 300 || < 500 || > 400
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 2,591 m || 1,580 hp || 1,728 hp  
+
| 2,400 m || 1,580 hp || 1,728 hp
 
|-
 
|-
−
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 2
+
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Optimal altitude
 
! Optimal altitude
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! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 6,401 m || 1,310 hp || 1,433 hp  
+
| 6,400 m || 1,320 hp || 1,444 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.'' -->
−
 
 
 
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Pilot's windscreen
 
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Pilot's windscreen
 
* 19.05 mm Steel - Fore engine plate
 
* 19.05 mm Steel - Fore engine plate
−
* 6.35 mm Steel - Fore cockpit armor plate
+
* 6.35 mm Steel - Fore cockpit armour plate
 
* 8 mm Steel - Plate behind pilot's seat
 
* 8 mm Steel - Plate behind pilot's seat
 
* 11 mm Steel - Pilot's headrest
 
* 11 mm Steel - Pilot's headrest
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== 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)}}
 
{{main|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
−
 
+
* 6 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, wing-mounted (2 x 270 rpg outer + 500 rpg inner = 2,080 total)
−
* 6 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, wing-mounted (500 rpg inner + 270 rpg outer x2 = 2080 total)
 
  
 
=== 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)|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)}}
 
{{main|AN-M30A1 (100 lb)|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)}}
 
{{main|HVAR|M8}}
 
{{main|HVAR|M8}}
  
−
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordinances:
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
−
 
+
* Without load
−
* 6 x 127 mm HVAR rockets
+
* 6 x HVAR rockets
−
* 6 x 114 mm M8 rockets
+
* 6 x M8 rockets
 
* 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
 
* 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
 
* 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (500 lb total)
 
* 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (500 lb total)
 
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
 
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
 
* 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
 
* 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
−
* 6 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
+
* 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs + 6 x HVAR rockets (200 lb total)
−
* 6 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
+
* 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs + 6 x HVAR rockets (500 lb total)
 +
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 6 x HVAR rockets (1,000 lb total)
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== 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).-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in an 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).'' -->
 +
With a BR of 4.3, its performance is far better than most equivalently ranked aircraft such as the [[Fw 190 A-4]]. Climb rate is impressive and the 6 MGs have a very good ammo capacity, even more with the free reloads in AB.
  
−
Of course, unlike AB and RB, the P-51 can fully utilize its capabilities. With a BR of 4.3, it performance far better than most equivalently ranked aircraft such as the FW-190 A-4. Climb rate is impressive and the 6 MGs have a very good ammo capacity, even more with the free reloads in AB.
+
In all battle modes side-climbing and then Boom & Zooming are by far the most effective tactics for use with the Mustang. Once at a high altitude, dispatching bombers and preying on fighters is quite easy, given the high endurance and weaponry of the P-51. '''ALWAYS''' maintain significant energy and speed with the P-51- the Mustang relies on energy to perform. Speeds lower than 400 km/h result in extremely sluggish performance and thus destruction. Therefore, always maintain speed and altitude.
  
−
In both all battle modes side-climbing and then Boom & Zooming are by far the most effective tactics for use with the Mustang. Once at a high altitude dispatching bombers and preying fighters is quite easy, given the high endurance and weaponry of the P-51. '''ALWAYS''' maintain significant energy amounts and speed with the P-51- the Mustang relies on energy to perform. Speeds lower than 400 km/h result in extremely sluggish performance and thus destruction. Therefore, always keep the speed and altitude.
+
Especially in RB, maintaining altitude is imperative with the P-51D. Without altitude, one will most definitely fall prey to faster climbers such as the [[Fw 190 (Family)|Fw 190 D]]. By keeping speed the P-51 is also a very effective dog fighter.
  
−
Especially in RB, maintaining altitude is imperative with the P-51D. Without altitude, one will most definitely fall prey to faster climbers such as the Fw 190 D. By keeping speed the P-51 is also a very effective dog fighter.  
+
The P-51D has a very high stall speed. You'd be better off not stalling in this plane. Only do it when necessary and when you know you're safe to do it. Knowing when to use flaps is important, as the aircraft lacks an airbrake.
  
−
The P-51D has a very high stall speed. You'd be better off to not stall in this plane. Only do it when necessary and when you know  you're safe to do it. Knowing when to use flaps is important, as the aircraft lacks an airbrake.
+
Never go head-on in this plane. Your fragile airframe will be shredded by 20 mm cannons (or larger) which are plentiful at the level it fights. Avoid such situations.
  
−
Never go head on/heads up/ head-to-head with this plane. Your fragile airframe will be shredded by 20 mm, 23 mm, 30 mm, 37 mm, and 45 mm cannons which is plentiful at the level it fights. Avoid such situations.  
+
Surprisingly the Mustang is a good dog-fighter at speeds above 400 km/h, but not good enough to beat [[Spitfire LF Mk IX|Spitfires]], or [[:Category:Japan_aircraft|Japanese planes]]. Thankfully, you will rarely battle any allied planes, if at all. However, if caught by your main opponents, such as the [[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109]] or [[A6M5]], out-running them and employing boom-and-zoom tactics will be very effective.
  
−
Surprisingly the Mustang is a good dog fighter at speeds above 400 kph, but not good enough to beat [[Spitfire LF Mk IX|Spitfires]], or [[:Category:Japan_aircraft|Japanese planes]]. Thankfully, you will rarely battle any allied planes, if not at all. However, if caught by your main opponents, such as the Bf-109 or A6M5, out-running them and employing boom-and-zoom tactics will be very effective.
+
The 6 M2 Browning HMGs are very effective with the P-51. When combined with the "Tracer" belt (which is composed entirely with the extremely effective M20 API-T rounds), the Mustang's weapons are a force to be reckoned with. With bombers, a good burst to the engines is enough to send it up in flames. Not only are the guns powerful, but they possess very high ammunition capacity- 2,000 rounds total- plenty for an entire game. Additionally, once you reach 480 rounds left the P-51 fires only from 2 outboard M2s, providing additional endurance for the price of lower damage and power. This can be highly advantageous in RB and SB, but extremely disadvantageous in arcade.
−
 
 
−
The 6 M2 Browning HMGs are very effective with the P-51. When combined with the "Tracer belt" (which is composed entirely with the extremely effective M20 APIT rounds), the Mustang's weapons are a force to be reckoned with. With bombers, a good burst to the engine is enough to send it up in flames. Not only are the guns powerful they possess very high ammunition capacity- 2000 rounds total- plenty for an entire game. Even more, once you reach 480 rounds left the P-51 fires only from 2 outboard M2s, providing additional endurance for the price of lower damage and power. This can be highly advantageous in RB and SB, but extremely disadvantageous in arcade.
 
  
 
Cockpit visibility is very impressive in SB due to the bubble cockpit. Visibility is superior to all planes in the 4-6 BR range aside from the P-47 or Griffin Spits.
 
Cockpit visibility is very impressive in SB due to the bubble cockpit. Visibility is superior to all planes in the 4-6 BR range aside from the P-47 or Griffin Spits.
  
−
===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" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Auto control available || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Auto control available || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable<br>2 gears || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
===Modules===
+
=== Modules ===
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
! colspan="1" | Tier
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|-
 
|-
 
| I
 
| I
−
| Fuselage Reapir
+
| Fuselage repair
 
| Radiator
 
| Radiator
−
|  
+
|
 
| Offensive 12 mm
 
| Offensive 12 mm
−
|  
+
|
 
| FSBC mk.1
 
| FSBC mk.1
 
|-
 
|-
 
| II
 
| II
−
|  
+
|
 
| Compressor
 
| Compressor
 
| Airframe
 
| Airframe
−
|  
+
|
 
| FRC mk.2
 
| FRC mk.2
 
| FSBC mk.5
 
| FSBC mk.5
 
|-
 
|-
 
| III
 
| III
−
| Wings Repair
+
| Wings repair
 
| Engine
 
| Engine
−
|  
+
|
 
| New 12 mm MGs
 
| New 12 mm MGs
−
|  
+
|
 
| FMBC mk.1
 
| FMBC mk.1
 
|-
 
|-
 
| IV
 
| IV
−
| G-Suit
+
| G-suit
−
| Engine Injection
+
| Engine injection
 
| Cover
 
| Cover
−
|  
+
|
 
| Rocket Launcher M10
 
| Rocket Launcher M10
 
| FLBC mk.1
 
| FLBC mk.1
Line 257: Line 246:
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
*The stock Mustang has fairly poor performance. Acceleration and climb rate is terrible. This can be rectified by grinding down the performance modifications. The "Offensive 12.7 mm" should be researched immediately, and stealth ammo equipped. Avoiding researching ground attack mods until you research performance mods first, that includes the very important "G-Suit", as it greatly increases high-speed g-tolerance.
+
* The stock Mustang has fairly poor performance. Acceleration and climb rate is terrible. This can be rectified by grinding down the performance modifications. The "Offensive 12.7 mm" should be researched immediately, and stealth ammo equipped. Avoid researching ground attack mods until you research performance mods first, that includes the very important "G-Suit", as it greatly increases high-speed g-tolerance.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--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".-->
+
<!-- ''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:'''
−
 
 
* Outstanding Boom & Zoom capability
 
* Outstanding Boom & Zoom capability
 
* Great performance at altitude
 
* Great performance at altitude
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* Plenty of ammo
 
* Plenty of ammo
 
* High energy retention in turns
 
* High energy retention in turns
−
* Large fuel capacity (45 minutes flight time)
+
* Large fuel capacity (1 hour 45 minutes maximum flight time)
 
* Tracers consist entirely of API-T rounds, giving the 12.7 mm a significantly bigger punch than other machine guns
 
* Tracers consist entirely of API-T rounds, giving the 12.7 mm a significantly bigger punch than other machine guns
 
* Fantastic top speed and acceleration when spaded
 
* Fantastic top speed and acceleration when spaded
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'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
 
 
* Relatively prone to catching fire
 
* Relatively prone to catching fire
 
* High stall speed
 
* High stall speed
−
* Only utilizes machines guns, no cannons
+
* Only utilises machines guns, no cannons
 
* Poor performance and climb, relatively low acceleration when stock
 
* Poor performance and climb, relatively low acceleration when stock
 
* Sluggish when carrying bombs and rockets ''(Increased weight and drag)''
 
* Sluggish when carrying bombs and rockets ''(Increased weight and drag)''
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== 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 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></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).'' -->
−
 
 
 
In April of 1940, the British Purchasing Commission visited the United States in the hope of securing a new fighter to supplement their Spitfire and Hurricane. They approached the North American Aircraft Company with the proposal to build P-40s under license from Curtiss. Instead, North American proposed the idea of building a brand new superior fighter. The BPC accepted the proposal and the first prototype was set to be completed within 120 days. The design team was led by Lee Atwood, Raymond Rice, and Edgar Schmued (a German-born Austrian who was previously employed by Fokker). They quickly set to work on the new prototype designated NA-73X. The original prototype was assembled in 117 days and first flew on October 26, 1940. A majority of the early Mustangs produced were primarily used for testing by the USAAC. Shortly thereafter 320 NA-73s were ordered by the BPC. The first production model destined for the RAF made its maiden flight on May 1, 1941. The Lend-Lease contract was approved later that year on September 25th. These aircraft were designated Mustang I.
 
In April of 1940, the British Purchasing Commission visited the United States in the hope of securing a new fighter to supplement their Spitfire and Hurricane. They approached the North American Aircraft Company with the proposal to build P-40s under license from Curtiss. Instead, North American proposed the idea of building a brand new superior fighter. The BPC accepted the proposal and the first prototype was set to be completed within 120 days. The design team was led by Lee Atwood, Raymond Rice, and Edgar Schmued (a German-born Austrian who was previously employed by Fokker). They quickly set to work on the new prototype designated NA-73X. The original prototype was assembled in 117 days and first flew on October 26, 1940. A majority of the early Mustangs produced were primarily used for testing by the USAAC. Shortly thereafter 320 NA-73s were ordered by the BPC. The first production model destined for the RAF made its maiden flight on May 1, 1941. The Lend-Lease contract was approved later that year on September 25th. These aircraft were designated Mustang I.
  
−
The Allison power-plant used on the early Mustangs was not designed for high altitude performance. In August of 1942, Major Thomas Hitchcock approached senior officers in the U.S. Army for a solution. He proposed the Mustang could be easily developed into a high altitude long-range fighter through the conversion to the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. America's World War I ace Eddie Rickenbacker also endorsed the idea. Five Mustang Is were delivered to Rolls-Royce for the conversion and Merlin 65 engines were fitted to the airframe. Rolls-Royce would allow the Packard company to build the Merlin engines under license and this would be the answer to the USAAF's long-range fighter problem.  
+
The Allison power-plant used on the early Mustangs was not designed for high altitude performance. In August of 1942, Major Thomas Hitchcock approached senior officers in the U.S. Army for a solution. He proposed the Mustang could be easily developed into a high altitude long-range fighter through the conversion to the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. America's World War I ace Eddie Rickenbacker also endorsed the idea. Five Mustang Is were delivered to Rolls-Royce for the conversion and Merlin 65 engines were fitted to the airframe. Rolls-Royce would allow the Packard company to build the Merlin engines under license and this would be the answer to the USAAF's long-range fighter problem.
  
−
The P-51D was powered by a Packard Merlin V-1650-7 engine. The aircraft was fitted with six 12.7 mm Machine guns, a reflex gunsight, and a bubble canopy. A total of 7.956 D variant Mustangs were built.
+
The P-51D was powered by a Packard Merlin V-1650-7 engine. The aircraft was fitted with six 12.7 mm Machine guns, a reflex gunsight, and a bubble canopy. A total of 7.956 D variant Mustangs were built.
  
 
The P-51D saw front-line service with the Eight Air-force immediately following D-Day. It quickly excelled as a high-altitude escort fighter.
 
The P-51D saw front-line service with the Eight Air-force immediately following D-Day. It quickly excelled as a high-altitude escort fighter.
  
 
=== In-game description ===
 
=== In-game description ===
−
"The North-American P-51 Mustang was an American fighter designed in the early 1940s and is considered the best US fighter of WWII. It was widely exported to countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The P-51 participated in the Korean War and other post-WWII conflicts.  
+
The North-American P-51 Mustang was an American fighter designed in the early 1940s and is considered the best US fighter of WWII. It was widely exported to countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The P-51 participated in the Korean War and other post-WWII conflicts.
  
−
The most famous Mustang version was the P-51D with teardrop (or bubble) canopy. The main problem for the pilots of the earlier variants was a huge blind spot at the rear of the aircraft due to the canopy design. An earlier attempt to address the issue was a British-designed Malcolm hood, installed on many P-51Bs. It improved rearward visibility, but the search for a better solution continued. In January 1943, USAAF's Colonel Mark Bradley, while stationed in Britain, was introduced to the then-new ""bubble"" canopy, designed for use on Spitfires and Typhoons. The canopy had no framework and offered near 360-degree vision. To install the new canopy, the rear fuselage section of the Mustang had to lose some height. However, this change required minimal redesign to the airframe. The inaugural flight of the new P-51D took place at Inglewood, California on 17th November 1943."
+
The most famous Mustang version was the P-51D with teardrop (or bubble) canopy. The main problem for the pilots of the earlier variants was a huge blind spot at the rear of the aircraft due to the canopy design. An earlier attempt to address the issue was a British-designed Malcolm hood, installed on many P-51Bs. It improved rearward visibility, but the search for a better solution continued. In January 1943, USAAF's Colonel Mark Bradley, while stationed in Britain, was introduced to the then-new "bubble" canopy, designed for use on Spitfires and Typhoons. The canopy had no framework and offered near 360-degree vision. To install the new canopy, the rear fuselage section of the Mustang had to lose some height. However, this change required minimal redesign to the airframe. The inaugural flight of the new P-51D took place at Inglewood, California on 17th 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=%23p51 Camouflages for the P-51 on live.warthunder]
 
* [http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23p51 Camouflages for the P-51 on live.warthunder]
  
Line 311: Line 297:
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 
* [http://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/12541-p-51d-mustang/ [Forums<nowiki>]</nowiki> P-51D Mustang]
 
* [http://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/12541-p-51d-mustang/ [Forums<nowiki>]</nowiki> P-51D Mustang]
  
 
{{USA fighters}}
 
{{USA fighters}}

Revision as of 14:29, 29 June 2019

P-51D-5
p-51d-5.png
P-51D-5
USA flag.png USA
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
4.0 4.0 5.0
Class:
Research:13 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:76 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
This page is about the American fighter P-51D-5. For other versions, see P-51 (Family).

Description

GarageImage P-51D-5.jpg


The P-51D-5 Mustang is a rank III American fighter with a battle rating of 4.0 (AB/RB) and 5.0 (SB). It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

The P-51D is, undoubtedly, the shining star of the USAF branch. With its sleek laminar-flow wing, classic American M2 Brownings, high-visibility cockpit, and immensely powerful engine, the P-51 is most definitely a force to be reckoned with. It is endowed with very good high-altitude traits, endurance, and speed. Use it accordingly.

P-51D on the Inglewood assembly line, the fully “semi-monocoque” fuselage lowered on the one piece wing. From -> "Structures of aircraft" article

As standard with the USAAF, the Mustang has six M2 Browning machine guns in the wings. It can load bombs and rockets like most other planes in the USAAF. The armament, though effective, still requires patience to master. The M2s have a great range, but the damage decreases substantially as your proximity from your opponent increases. It is best to shoot for the engines and wings of any plane, because fuselage shots will waste your ammunition.

The armament is pretty versatile; the 12.7 mm M2 machine guns can easily destroy most soft targets: light tanks, AAA, SPAA, soft ground units, artillery, etc. Against bombers and heavy fighters the incendiary rounds will effectively set them alight.

The ground attack capability of the Mustang is notable, as it can carry 2 heavy 1000 lb bombs, as well as 6 rockets. Thus, the Mustang is also an effective attacker/ground attack aircraft.

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 7,620 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
673 652 12700 24.0 24.9 14.9 14.9 396
Upgraded
Max Speed
(km/h at 7,620 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
724 698 12700 22.0 23.0 21.7 18 396

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wing-break speed
(km/h) 		Gear limit
(km/h) 		Combat flaps
(km/h) 		Max Static G
+ -
644 ~10 ~4
Optimal velocities
Ailerons
(km/h) 		Rudder
(km/h) 		Elevators
(km/h) 		Radiator
(km/h)
< 500 < 300 < 500 > 400
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
2,400 m 1,580 hp 1,728 hp
Setting 2
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
6,400 m 1,320 hp 1,444 hp

Survivability and armour

  • 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Pilot's windscreen
  • 19.05 mm Steel - Fore engine plate
  • 6.35 mm Steel - Fore cockpit armour plate
  • 8 mm Steel - Plate behind pilot's seat
  • 11 mm Steel - Pilot's headrest

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: Browning M2 (12.7 mm)

The P-51D-5 is armed with:

  • 6 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, wing-mounted (2 x 270 rpg outer + 500 rpg inner = 2,080 total)

Suspended armament

Main articles: AN-M30A1 (100 lb), AN-M57 (250 lb), AN-M64A1 (500 lb), AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)
Main articles: HVAR, M8

The P-51D-5 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 6 x HVAR rockets
  • 6 x M8 rockets
  • 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs (200 lb total)
  • 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (500 lb total)
  • 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 100 lb AN-M30A1 bombs + 6 x HVAR rockets (200 lb total)
  • 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs + 6 x HVAR rockets (500 lb total)
  • 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 6 x HVAR rockets (1,000 lb total)

Usage in battles

With a BR of 4.3, its performance is far better than most equivalently ranked aircraft such as the Fw 190 A-4. Climb rate is impressive and the 6 MGs have a very good ammo capacity, even more with the free reloads in AB.

In all battle modes side-climbing and then Boom & Zooming are by far the most effective tactics for use with the Mustang. Once at a high altitude, dispatching bombers and preying on fighters is quite easy, given the high endurance and weaponry of the P-51. ALWAYS maintain significant energy and speed with the P-51- the Mustang relies on energy to perform. Speeds lower than 400 km/h result in extremely sluggish performance and thus destruction. Therefore, always maintain speed and altitude.

Especially in RB, maintaining altitude is imperative with the P-51D. Without altitude, one will most definitely fall prey to faster climbers such as the Fw 190 D. By keeping speed the P-51 is also a very effective dog fighter.

The P-51D has a very high stall speed. You'd be better off not stalling in this plane. Only do it when necessary and when you know you're safe to do it. Knowing when to use flaps is important, as the aircraft lacks an airbrake.

Never go head-on in this plane. Your fragile airframe will be shredded by 20 mm cannons (or larger) which are plentiful at the level it fights. Avoid such situations.

Surprisingly the Mustang is a good dog-fighter at speeds above 400 km/h, but not good enough to beat Spitfires, or Japanese planes. Thankfully, you will rarely battle any allied planes, if at all. However, if caught by your main opponents, such as the Bf 109 or A6M5, out-running them and employing boom-and-zoom tactics will be very effective.

The 6 M2 Browning HMGs are very effective with the P-51. When combined with the "Tracer" belt (which is composed entirely with the extremely effective M20 API-T rounds), the Mustang's weapons are a force to be reckoned with. With bombers, a good burst to the engines is enough to send it up in flames. Not only are the guns powerful, but they possess very high ammunition capacity- 2,000 rounds total- plenty for an entire game. Additionally, once you reach 480 rounds left the P-51 fires only from 2 outboard M2s, providing additional endurance for the price of lower damage and power. This can be highly advantageous in RB and SB, but extremely disadvantageous in arcade.

Cockpit visibility is very impressive in SB due to the bubble cockpit. Visibility is superior to all planes in the 4-6 BR range aside from the P-47 or Griffin Spits.

Manual Engine Control

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

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage repair Radiator Offensive 12 mm FSBC mk.1
II Compressor Airframe FRC mk.2 FSBC mk.5
III Wings repair Engine New 12 mm MGs FMBC mk.1
IV G-suit Engine injection Cover Rocket Launcher M10 FLBC mk.1
  • The stock Mustang has fairly poor performance. Acceleration and climb rate is terrible. This can be rectified by grinding down the performance modifications. The "Offensive 12.7 mm" should be researched immediately, and stealth ammo equipped. Avoid researching ground attack mods until you research performance mods first, that includes the very important "G-Suit", as it greatly increases high-speed g-tolerance.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Outstanding Boom & Zoom capability
  • Great performance at altitude
  • Very fast at all altitudes, especially with a leveling-out dive
  • Very agile at high speeds
  • Good cockpit visibility
  • Plenty of ammo
  • High energy retention in turns
  • Large fuel capacity (1 hour 45 minutes maximum flight time)
  • Tracers consist entirely of API-T rounds, giving the 12.7 mm a significantly bigger punch than other machine guns
  • Fantastic top speed and acceleration when spaded
  • Very good sustained climb rate when spaded

Cons:

  • Relatively prone to catching fire
  • High stall speed
  • Only utilises machines guns, no cannons
  • Poor performance and climb, relatively low acceleration when stock
  • Sluggish when carrying bombs and rockets (Increased weight and drag)
  • Has an annoying tendency to quickly catch on fire.

History

In April of 1940, the British Purchasing Commission visited the United States in the hope of securing a new fighter to supplement their Spitfire and Hurricane. They approached the North American Aircraft Company with the proposal to build P-40s under license from Curtiss. Instead, North American proposed the idea of building a brand new superior fighter. The BPC accepted the proposal and the first prototype was set to be completed within 120 days. The design team was led by Lee Atwood, Raymond Rice, and Edgar Schmued (a German-born Austrian who was previously employed by Fokker). They quickly set to work on the new prototype designated NA-73X. The original prototype was assembled in 117 days and first flew on October 26, 1940. A majority of the early Mustangs produced were primarily used for testing by the USAAC. Shortly thereafter 320 NA-73s were ordered by the BPC. The first production model destined for the RAF made its maiden flight on May 1, 1941. The Lend-Lease contract was approved later that year on September 25th. These aircraft were designated Mustang I.

The Allison power-plant used on the early Mustangs was not designed for high altitude performance. In August of 1942, Major Thomas Hitchcock approached senior officers in the U.S. Army for a solution. He proposed the Mustang could be easily developed into a high altitude long-range fighter through the conversion to the Rolls-Royce Merlin engine. America's World War I ace Eddie Rickenbacker also endorsed the idea. Five Mustang Is were delivered to Rolls-Royce for the conversion and Merlin 65 engines were fitted to the airframe. Rolls-Royce would allow the Packard company to build the Merlin engines under license and this would be the answer to the USAAF's long-range fighter problem.

The P-51D was powered by a Packard Merlin V-1650-7 engine. The aircraft was fitted with six 12.7 mm Machine guns, a reflex gunsight, and a bubble canopy. A total of 7.956 D variant Mustangs were built.

The P-51D saw front-line service with the Eight Air-force immediately following D-Day. It quickly excelled as a high-altitude escort fighter.

In-game description

The North-American P-51 Mustang was an American fighter designed in the early 1940s and is considered the best US fighter of WWII. It was widely exported to countries in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The P-51 participated in the Korean War and other post-WWII conflicts.

The most famous Mustang version was the P-51D with teardrop (or bubble) canopy. The main problem for the pilots of the earlier variants was a huge blind spot at the rear of the aircraft due to the canopy design. An earlier attempt to address the issue was a British-designed Malcolm hood, installed on many P-51Bs. It improved rearward visibility, but the search for a better solution continued. In January 1943, USAAF's Colonel Mark Bradley, while stationed in Britain, was introduced to the then-new "bubble" canopy, designed for use on Spitfires and Typhoons. The canopy had no framework and offered near 360-degree vision. To install the new canopy, the rear fuselage section of the Mustang had to lose some height. However, this change required minimal redesign to the airframe. The inaugural flight of the new P-51D took place at Inglewood, California on 17th 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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