Difference between revisions of "P-47D-25"

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(Updated template w/ new design, Added in-game description, Rearranged text to more appropriate locations)
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
<!--''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''-->
+
<!--In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.-->
  
 
[[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 strike 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 strike fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.
  
 
Like the [[P-51D-5|P-51D Mustang]], the P-47D-25 is one of the iconic fighters of the USAAF and thus one of the most powerful. The wing of the British Spitfire melded with the iconic Pratt and Whitney R-2800 and bulky body, the P-47 is truly a force to be reckoned with, possessing very good performance, weaponry, and loadout. The ''`Jug´'' is thus one of the best [[:Category:Fighters|fighters]] in the USAF line; possessing the hallmarks of a great fighter and the capability of a fast attacker.
 
Like the [[P-51D-5|P-51D Mustang]], the P-47D-25 is one of the iconic fighters of the USAAF and thus one of the most powerful. The wing of the British Spitfire melded with the iconic Pratt and Whitney R-2800 and bulky body, the P-47 is truly a force to be reckoned with, possessing very good performance, weaponry, and loadout. The ''`Jug´'' is thus one of the best [[:Category:Fighters|fighters]] in the USAF line; possessing the hallmarks of a great fighter and the capability of a fast attacker.
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== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight Performance ===
 
=== Flight Performance ===
<!--''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''-->
+
<!--Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.-->
 +
In Arcade battles, the P-47 can be pushed to its limits. Climb rate, turn rate, and responsiveness are all dramatically increased. Still, tactics used in RB also apply very well in Arcade- this fighter is great for practising Boom & Zoom in Arcade due to the impressive climb rate in this mode. However, the skill will not be built nearly as well in this mode, as rolling scissors and "skidding" manoeuvres will not really be needed.
 +
 
 +
Overall, the P-47 is a very pleasurable plane to fly for a quick jaunt in arcade battles.
 +
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! Arrestor gear
 
! Arrestor gear
 
|-
 
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X     <!-- ✓ -->
+
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X   <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
<!--''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''-->
+
''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.''
 
 
* No armour plating
 
* No armour glazing
 
* Critical components located in 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|MAC 1934 (7.5 mm)}}
+
{{main|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
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=== 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-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|HVAR}}
 
{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|HVAR}}
  
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* 10 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 2 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
 
* 10 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 2 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
 
* 10 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 2 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb (2,500 lb total)
 
* 10 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 2 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb (2,500 lb total)
<!--
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available remove this subsection.''
 
-->
 
  
== Usage in the 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 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).-->
 +
 
 +
The Thunderbolt was used as a high altitude bomber escort and excels at fighter roles in the game, but it can also be used as a very effective ground attack aircraft, thanks to its impressive bomb load. With the equivalent of 3,000 lbs of ordnance under its wings with munitions such as 1,000 lb bombs and 10 HVAR rockets, it is an excellent fighter-bomber. In this role, its performance is often superior to even dedicated ground attack aircraft such as IL-2 Sturmoviks. Its eight fifty-calibre guns are effective against soft targets which aren't worth rockets or bombs. With good aim, they can destroy light pillboxes at distances less than 400m if using the "Ground Targets" belt. When engaging against enemy aircraft, Boom & Zoom tactics are a must, never try to dogfight with the 'Jug'. When diving on a target, if you don't down the enemy, don't try to turn and finish him, use the speed you built in the dive and extend away, climb up, Immelmann and do it all again.
 +
 
 +
Two main skill modes present themselves: Strike fighter (fighter-bomber), taken by going low with a full payload, ravaging the countryside, or as just as a standard fighter by first gaining altitude to hunt for bombers, or use the height to dive on enemies who do not have the patience to climb. For the former "ground attack belt" is obviously advised, it will easily pierce armoured cars and light pillboxes, they do work well on aircraft too.
 +
 
 +
When using the "Jug" as a fighter remember that speed and altitude are your lifelines. Never give these up unless you must to stay alive. Also, remember that in arcade planes accelerate very quickly so you need a huge speed advantage to make sure you make a getaway in a boom and zoom attack. With this is mind dive in on enemies that are engaging a teammate or ones that at least 1 km bellow you. If you do not shoot down the enemy, remember to go into a shallow climb to extend, not a steep climb
 +
 
 +
A wonderful Boom & Zoom fighter in every respect, therefore, flies it accordingly! As in real life, the performance advantage will drastically shift in favour of the P-47D above 3,000m (Soviet opponents) or 6,000m (most German and Japanese aircraft). The climb rate of this plane is not the best as such it is a good idea to side climb and wait for the first engagement. In realistic battles it is wise to wait until after the first engagements with enemies, then if your team has a numerical advantage land on the airstrip, bailout and then load the ground attack ordnance, remember to not bail out until fully repaired and rearmed.
 +
 
 +
Its bubble canopy makes spotting enemies much easier than most other planes even when you are above the enemy. Remember that firing at an enemy plane at convergence range will be devastating, choosing a comfortable targeting distance is crucial in the Thunderbolt. In many cases don't be afraid to dive away from an enemy and then pull-up drastically since you have a heavy and very tough airframe, this makes altitude a very important asset, and thus side climbing is always beneficial.
  
 
===Manual Engine Control===
 
===Manual Engine Control===
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* Climb rate and acceleration is a big issue for the stock P-47D. Focus on ''Compressor'', ''Engine'', ''Wing repairs'' and ''Engine Injection'' first. During this ''performance'' focused grind, you can additionally research ''New 12.7 mm'' and the various payload modules to unlock the higher tiers for the better performance upgrades.
 
* Climb rate and acceleration is a big issue for the stock P-47D. Focus on ''Compressor'', ''Engine'', ''Wing repairs'' and ''Engine Injection'' first. During this ''performance'' focused grind, you can additionally research ''New 12.7 mm'' and the various payload modules to unlock the higher tiers for the better performance upgrades.
 
=== Tactics ===
 
The Thunderbolt was used as a high altitude bomber escort and excels at fighter roles in the game, but it can also be used as a very effective ground attack aircraft, thanks to its impressive bomb load. With the equivalent of 3,000 lbs of ordnance under its wings with munitions such as 1,000 lb bombs and 10 HVAR rockets, it is an excellent fighter-bomber. In this role, its performance is often superior to even dedicated ground attack aircraft such as IL-2 Sturmoviks. It's eight fifty-calibre guns are effective against soft targets which aren't worth rockets or bombs. With good aim, they can destroy light pillboxes at distances less than 400m if using the "Ground Targets" belt. When engaging against enemy aircraft, Boom & Zoom tactics are a must, never try to dogfight with the 'Jug'. When diving on a target, if you don't secure the kill, don't try to turn and finish him, use the speed you built in the dive and extend away, climb up, Immelmann and do it all again.
 
 
In Arcade battles, the P-47 can be pushed to its limits. Climb rate, turn rate, and responsiveness are all dramatically increased. Still, tactics used in RB also apply very well in Arcade- this fighter is great for practising Boom & Zoom in Arcade due to the impressive climb rate in this mode. However, the skill will not be built nearly as well in this mode, as rolling scissors and "skidding" manoeuvres will not really be needed.
 
 
Overall, the P-47 is a very pleasurable plane to fly for a quick jaunt in arcade battles.
 
 
Two main skill modes present themselves:'
 
 
Strike fighter (fighter-bomber), taken by going low with a full payload, ravaging the countryside, or gain altitude to hunt for bombers, or use the height to dive on enemies who do not have the patience to climb. For the former `round attack belt´ is obviously advised, it will easily pierce armoured cars and light pillboxes, they do work well on aircraft too.
 
 
When using the "Jug" as a fighter remember that speed and altitude are your lifelines. Never give these up unless you must to stay alive. Also, remember that in arcade planes accelerate very quickly so you need a huge speed advantage to make sure you make a getaway in a boom and zoom attack. With this is mind dive in on enemies that are engaging a teammate or ones that at least 1 km bellow you. if you do not kill the enemy remember to go into a shallow climb to extend not a steep climb
 
 
A wonderful Boom & Zoom fighter in every respect, therefore, flies it accordingly! As in real life, the performance advantage will drastically shift in favour of the P-47D above 3,000m (Soviet opponents) or 6,000m (most German and Japanese aircraft). The climb rate of this plane is not the best as such it is a good idea to side climb and wait for the first engagement. In realistic battles it is wise to wait until after the first engagements with enemies, then if your team has a numerical advantage land on the airstrip, bailout and then load the ground attack ordnance, remember to not bail out until fully repaired and rearmed.
 
 
Its bubble canopy makes spotting enemies much easier than most other planes even when you are above the enemy. Remember that firing at an enemy plane at convergence range will be devastating, choosing a comfortable targeting distance is crucial in the Thunderbolt. In many cases don't be afraid to dive away from an enemy and then pull-up drastically since you have a heavy and very tough airframe, this makes altitude a very important asset, and thus side climbing is always beneficial.
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
<!--''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''-->
+
<!--Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".-->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
* Great at diving and Boom & Zoom
+
* Great at diving and Boom & Zoom
* Great interceptor
+
* Great multirole aircraft, acting as an interceptor or ground-attack aircraft
* It is the perfect multirole aircraft
 
 
* Impressive speed, great engine performance above 6,000 m
 
* Impressive speed, great engine performance above 6,000 m
* It is very rugged
+
* Very rugged construction can keep the plane flying despite damages
* Impressive firepower of 8 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns
+
* Impressive firepower of 8 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns with also impressive ammunition pool
* Plenty of ammo
 
 
* First plane in the U.S tech tree to gain access to pure API-T ammo belts
 
* First plane in the U.S tech tree to gain access to pure API-T ammo belts
* Very fast for its tier and current battle rating
+
* Very fast for its rank
 
* One of the few fighters that can carry both bombs and rockets at the same time, making it excellent for ground attack
 
* One of the few fighters that can carry both bombs and rockets at the same time, making it excellent for ground attack
 
* By using opposite rudder and aileron controls, for example, left rudder and right aileron, the Thunderbolt can "skid" quickly in the direction the rudder. Very useful to dodge shots. Works for both the D-25 and D-28
 
* By using opposite rudder and aileron controls, for example, left rudder and right aileron, the Thunderbolt can "skid" quickly in the direction the rudder. Very useful to dodge shots. Works for both the D-25 and D-28
* Battle rating of 3.0 gives the plane significant advantages over other planes in terms of technical specifications, provided one can play it to its strengths
 
* Impressive payload. When full researched, the P-47s can carry two 1,000 lb bombs and one 500 lb bomb, as well as the rockets
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
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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 big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''-->
+
<!--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>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).-->
  
Developed by North Republic Aviation, the main role of the P-47 Thunderbolt was Bomber Escort, at high altitude the 'Jug' could contend with the latest from the Luftwaffe. The design was to also include much better protection for the pilot by having increased armour around the cockpit, however, this increased it's weight substantially. It was the first American fighter to receive more than the standard 6 x .50 calibre M2 Browning Machine guns, a total of 8 all together. Making it the most powerful Allied aircraft in terms of firepower at the time. Thanks to its rugged design, The Thunderbolt was able to take a considerable beating, more so than other allied aircraft, also with its sturdy airframe and reliable radial engine, the 'Jug' quickly took on the role of ground attack, able to arm itself with 2500 lbs of bombs and rockets. All in all the Thunderbolt was one of the most successful allied aircraft during the war, even with the introduction of the faster and more nimble P-51 Mustang, later modifications of the Thunderbolt would go on to see action in the later part of the Pacific Campaign against the Imperial Japanese Navy.  
+
Developed by North Republic Aviation, the main role of the P-47 Thunderbolt was Bomber Escort, at high altitude the 'Jug' could contend with the latest from the Luftwaffe. The design was to also include much better protection for the pilot by having increased armour around the cockpit, however, this increased its weight substantially. It was the first American fighter to receive more than the standard 6 x .50 calibre M2 Browning Machine guns, a total of 8 all together. Making it the most powerful Allied aircraft in terms of firepower at the time. Thanks to its rugged design, The Thunderbolt was able to take a considerable beating, more so than other allied aircraft, also with its sturdy airframe and reliable radial engine, the 'Jug' quickly took on the role of ground attack, able to arm itself with 2500 lbs of bombs and rockets. All in all the Thunderbolt was one of the most successful allied aircraft during the war, even with the introduction of the faster and more nimble P-51 Mustang, later modifications of the Thunderbolt would go on to see action in the later part of the Pacific Campaign against the Imperial Japanese Navy.  
  
 
A total of 385 D-25 Models of the P-47 were constructed. This model was the first to receive the teardrop canopy. It was also fitted with an increased supply of oxygen and some systems were repositioned for higher fuel capacity.
 
A total of 385 D-25 Models of the P-47 were constructed. This model was the first to receive the teardrop canopy. It was also fitted with an increased supply of oxygen and some systems were repositioned for higher fuel capacity.
 +
 +
===In-game description===
 +
The Republic P-47 Thunderbolt was an American fighter-bomber of the WWII era. It was one of the main USAAF fighters of WWII, especially effective as a fighter-bomber. The P-47 was also sent to the USSR via the lend-lease program. It was designed at Republic Aviation by two emigrants from the Russian Empire, Alexander Seversky and Alexander Kartveli.
 +
 +
The official designation of the P-47, like that of many other Republic aircraft, is related to the word Thunder. However, the P-47's unmatched dimensions and weight led to the P-47 being nicknamed the Jug. Another informal nickname, more common during WWII, is Bolt or T-Bolt. The most mass-produced variant of the P-47 was the P-47D with a teardrop canopy. The variant was in development as early as 1941 and the first order for 850 P-47Ds was placed in late 1941. Many more Thunderbolts would be built during the war, making it the most mass-produced US fighter of WWII by 1945.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
+
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
 
 
== Read also ==
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
 
  
 +
== 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;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
<!--''ETC.''-->
 
  
== Sources ==
+
== External links ==
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
 
* ''other literature.''
 
* ''other literature.''
  
 
{{USA fighters}}
 
{{USA fighters}}

Revision as of 16:17, 22 May 2019

Introducing Wiki 3.0
p-47d.png
P-47D-25
AB RB SB
4.0 4.3 3.7
Class:
Research:17 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:105 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
This page is about the American strike fighter P-47D-25. For other uses, see P-47 (Family).

Description

GarageImage P-47D-25.jpg


The P-47D-25 Thunderbolt is a rank III American strike fighter with a battle rating of 4.0 (AB), 4.3 (RB), and 3.7 (SB). It was in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

Like the P-51D Mustang, the P-47D-25 is one of the iconic fighters of the USAAF and thus one of the most powerful. The wing of the British Spitfire melded with the iconic Pratt and Whitney R-2800 and bulky body, the P-47 is truly a force to be reckoned with, possessing very good performance, weaponry, and loadout. The `Jug´ is thus one of the best fighters in the USAF line; possessing the hallmarks of a great fighter and the capability of a fast attacker.

General info

Flight Performance

In Arcade battles, the P-47 can be pushed to its limits. Climb rate, turn rate, and responsiveness are all dramatically increased. Still, tactics used in RB also apply very well in Arcade- this fighter is great for practising Boom & Zoom in Arcade due to the impressive climb rate in this mode. However, the skill will not be built nearly as well in this mode, as rolling scissors and "skidding" manoeuvres will not really be needed.

Overall, the P-47 is a very pleasurable plane to fly for a quick jaunt in arcade battles.

Characteristics
Stock
Max Speed
(km/h at 9,114 m)
Max altitude
(meters)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(meters/second)
Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
665 656 12,200 26.6 27.2 5.3 7.1 600
Upgraded
Max Speed
(km/h at 9,114 m)
Max altitude (meters) Turn time (seconds) Rate of climb
(meters/second)
Take-off run (meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
736 700 12,200 36.4 25.0 18.2 10.6 600

Details

Features
Combat flap Take-off flap Landing flap Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X
Limits
Wing-break speed
(km/h)
Gear limit
(km/h)
Combat flap
(km/h)
Max Static G
+ -
885 450 520 ~14 ~6
Optimal velocities
Ailerons
(km/h)
Rudder
(km/h)
Elevators
(km/h)
Radiator
(km/h)
< 380 < 420 < 450 > 250
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
7,350 m 2,000 hp 2,300 hp

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.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: Browning M2 (12.7 mm)

The P-47D-25 is armed with:

  • 8 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, wing-mounted (425 rpg = 3400 total)

Suspended armament

The P-47D-25 can be outfitted with the following ordinance:

  • 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb (500 lb total)
  • 2 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
  • 10 x 127 mm HVAR rockets
  • 2 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb (2,500 lb total)
  • 10 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb (500 lb total)
  • 10 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 2 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
  • 10 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 2 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 1 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb (2,500 lb total)

Usage in battles

The Thunderbolt was used as a high altitude bomber escort and excels at fighter roles in the game, but it can also be used as a very effective ground attack aircraft, thanks to its impressive bomb load. With the equivalent of 3,000 lbs of ordnance under its wings with munitions such as 1,000 lb bombs and 10 HVAR rockets, it is an excellent fighter-bomber. In this role, its performance is often superior to even dedicated ground attack aircraft such as IL-2 Sturmoviks. Its eight fifty-calibre guns are effective against soft targets which aren't worth rockets or bombs. With good aim, they can destroy light pillboxes at distances less than 400m if using the "Ground Targets" belt. When engaging against enemy aircraft, Boom & Zoom tactics are a must, never try to dogfight with the 'Jug'. When diving on a target, if you don't down the enemy, don't try to turn and finish him, use the speed you built in the dive and extend away, climb up, Immelmann and do it all again.

Two main skill modes present themselves: Strike fighter (fighter-bomber), taken by going low with a full payload, ravaging the countryside, or as just as a standard fighter by first gaining altitude to hunt for bombers, or use the height to dive on enemies who do not have the patience to climb. For the former "ground attack belt" is obviously advised, it will easily pierce armoured cars and light pillboxes, they do work well on aircraft too.

When using the "Jug" as a fighter remember that speed and altitude are your lifelines. Never give these up unless you must to stay alive. Also, remember that in arcade planes accelerate very quickly so you need a huge speed advantage to make sure you make a getaway in a boom and zoom attack. With this is mind dive in on enemies that are engaging a teammate or ones that at least 1 km bellow you. If you do not shoot down the enemy, remember to go into a shallow climb to extend, not a steep climb

A wonderful Boom & Zoom fighter in every respect, therefore, flies it accordingly! As in real life, the performance advantage will drastically shift in favour of the P-47D above 3,000m (Soviet opponents) or 6,000m (most German and Japanese aircraft). The climb rate of this plane is not the best as such it is a good idea to side climb and wait for the first engagement. In realistic battles it is wise to wait until after the first engagements with enemies, then if your team has a numerical advantage land on the airstrip, bailout and then load the ground attack ordnance, remember to not bail out until fully repaired and rearmed.

Its bubble canopy makes spotting enemies much easier than most other planes even when you are above the enemy. Remember that firing at an enemy plane at convergence range will be devastating, choosing a comfortable targeting distance is crucial in the Thunderbolt. In many cases don't be afraid to dive away from an enemy and then pull-up drastically since you have a heavy and very tough airframe, this makes altitude a very important asset, and thus side climbing is always beneficial.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Not controllable Not controllable Not controllable Separate Not controllable Not controllable

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Airframe Repair Radiator Offensive 12 mm
II Compressor Airframe FMBC mk.1
III Wings Repair Engine New 12 mm MGs FRC mk.2
IV G-Suit Fuel Injection Cover FLBC mk.1
  • Climb rate and acceleration is a big issue for the stock P-47D. Focus on Compressor, Engine, Wing repairs and Engine Injection first. During this performance focused grind, you can additionally research New 12.7 mm and the various payload modules to unlock the higher tiers for the better performance upgrades.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Great at diving and Boom & Zoom
  • Great multirole aircraft, acting as an interceptor or ground-attack aircraft
  • Impressive speed, great engine performance above 6,000 m
  • Very rugged construction can keep the plane flying despite damages
  • Impressive firepower of 8 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns with also impressive ammunition pool
  • First plane in the U.S tech tree to gain access to pure API-T ammo belts
  • Very fast for its rank
  • One of the few fighters that can carry both bombs and rockets at the same time, making it excellent for ground attack
  • By using opposite rudder and aileron controls, for example, left rudder and right aileron, the Thunderbolt can "skid" quickly in the direction the rudder. Very useful to dodge shots. Works for both the D-25 and D-28

Cons:

  • Terrible turning time at low altitude/low speed
  • Mediocre climb performance (side climbing recommended)
  • Larger than average fighters
  • Poor overall performance when mounting payloads
  • After attacking ground targets, the P-47 lacks the altitude to Boom & Zoom enemy fighters

History

Developed by North Republic Aviation, the main role of the P-47 Thunderbolt was Bomber Escort, at high altitude the 'Jug' could contend with the latest from the Luftwaffe. The design was to also include much better protection for the pilot by having increased armour around the cockpit, however, this increased its weight substantially. It was the first American fighter to receive more than the standard 6 x .50 calibre M2 Browning Machine guns, a total of 8 all together. Making it the most powerful Allied aircraft in terms of firepower at the time. Thanks to its rugged design, The Thunderbolt was able to take a considerable beating, more so than other allied aircraft, also with its sturdy airframe and reliable radial engine, the 'Jug' quickly took on the role of ground attack, able to arm itself with 2500 lbs of bombs and rockets. All in all the Thunderbolt was one of the most successful allied aircraft during the war, even with the introduction of the faster and more nimble P-51 Mustang, later modifications of the Thunderbolt would go on to see action in the later part of the Pacific Campaign against the Imperial Japanese Navy.

A total of 385 D-25 Models of the P-47 were constructed. This model was the first to receive the teardrop canopy. It was also fitted with an increased supply of oxygen and some systems were repositioned for higher fuel capacity.

In-game description

The Republic P-47 Thunderbolt was an American fighter-bomber of the WWII era. It was one of the main USAAF fighters of WWII, especially effective as a fighter-bomber. The P-47 was also sent to the USSR via the lend-lease program. It was designed at Republic Aviation by two emigrants from the Russian Empire, Alexander Seversky and Alexander Kartveli.

The official designation of the P-47, like that of many other Republic aircraft, is related to the word Thunder. However, the P-47's unmatched dimensions and weight led to the P-47 being nicknamed the Jug. Another informal nickname, more common during WWII, is Bolt or T-Bolt. The most mass-produced variant of the P-47 was the P-47D with a teardrop canopy. The variant was in development as early as 1941 and the first order for 850 P-47Ds was placed in late 1941. Many more Thunderbolts would be built during the war, making it the most mass-produced US fighter of WWII by 1945.

Media

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

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

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • encyclopedia page on the aircraft;
  • other literature.


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