War Thunder News

[p][/p][p][/p][p]This unique mixed-propulsion fighter will be making its way to the US air tree as a premium in the next major update for War Thunder![/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]After jet-powered aircraft began to be tested in Europe, the U.S. Navy wanted to explore the possibility of operating jet-powered aircraft from carriers. However, flight data from the British jet-powered Gloster E28/39 Whittle showed that jet aircraft would be incapable of carrier operations, a presumption that was further confirmed by tests of the Bell P-59 in 1942, which demonstrated that the long take-off runs required would make jet aircraft unfit for carriers. Due to this, the Navy investigated alternatives, as they correctly identified that jet aircraft would be the future of aviation and did not want to be left out of the running.[/p][p][/p][p]After much deliberation, the Navy eventually decided to pursue the production of a composite fighter, with both a propeller and jet engine. In late 1942 Admiral John McCain presented the proposal to nine aircraft manufacturers, one of which was Ryan whose design was accepted. After a long period of wind tunnel tests, modifications, and test flights, the FR-1 Fireball showed promise, but alongside many issues. The core performance of the aircraft was impressive, with the mixed propulsion system mitigating the forecasted issues of operating jet aircraft from carriers. However, the construction was fragile and resulted in many accidents. Several Fireballs crashed or broke apart in the air as a result of the fairly weak wing structure which would falter when compressed.[/p][p][/p][p]The development and testing cycle of the Fireball was undeniably hasty, with aircraft being supplied to operational squadrons before testing had been completed, as the Navy were desperate for an aircraft that could reliably intercept the Japanese Ohka. The first Fireballs arrived at naval squadrons in March 1945, but never ended up seeing combat. In the following months pilots trained with the Fireball onboard carriers, but several more accidents occurred, and by the time pilots were qualified to operate the aircraft, the Japanese surrendered. The remaining Fireball orders were canceled on VJ Day. The Fireballs still in service continued to operate until 1947, but following even more crashes and accidents, an inspection of the remaining Fireballs uncovered almost universal structural failures on each aircraft. This caused all Fireballs to be withdrawn by August 1947.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the FR-1 Fireball![/h3][p]While the Fireball did not have the best reputation in real life, it’s set to become a very interesting and effective addition to War Thunder in the next major update as a premium! There’s a lot of aspects to cover, so let’s get into it![/p][p][/p][p]So, firstly let’s talk about the engines. The Fireball is the first aircraft in the game with mixed-propulsion, powered by both a propeller and jet engine at the same time. In the front is a Wright Cyclone R-1820-72W with 1350 HP, and towards the rear is the General Electric J31 with 1600 lb of thrust (the same engine used in the P-59). These two engines don’t push the Fireball to jet-like speeds, but they do ensure that speed in general remains high and consistent. The Fireball has a max speed of around 650 km/h, and can maintain a speed of around 600 km/h in a straight line at average engagement altitudes, which is fairly impressive. It also features a good climb rate and solid agility overall. Maneuverability is hard to describe concretely as it is dependent on many factors, but the Fireball will feel reminiscent of mid-war Bf 109s or early Griffon Spitfires, not the best, but still very competitive.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Interesting: There are many reports of Fireball pilots playing a joke on friendly aircraft. As the Fireball can turn off its prop engine with the jet engine still running, many pilots enjoyed pulling up next to and keeping pace with friendly aircraft with the front engine visibly off. This often left many pilots awestruck, believing that their own aircraft had to be faulty, before the Fireball would reengage the front engine and zoom off like a rocket.[/p][p][/p][p]Moving on from flight performance, armament is a little less impressive, very similar to the early Bearcat. The Fireball is equipped with four 12.7 mm M2 .50 caliber guns with 300 rounds per gun. The wide intakes required for the jet engine along the wing drastically limited internal space, so the armament of the Fireball is relatively light. Though, as it is still equipped with more powerful late-war ammunition, it will still be able to bring down fighters with an accurate burst.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]You’ll also be able to equip a small but respectable amount of suspended ordnance. Due to the low internal fuel reserves, you can equip two external fuel tanks, along with up to four HVAR rockets, a pair of 500 or 1000 lb bombs, or a pair of 1000 lb mines. While the loadout is limited, the great speed and maneuverability of the Fireball makes it a solid pick for combined battles as well, where it can accurately deliver its payload, and then effectively fulfill fighter duties as well.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Fast, unique, but lightly armed, this curious naval fighter will soon have its chance to burn as bright as its namesake (hopefully only in the metaphorical sense) in the next major update! It’ll be arriving to the US air tree as a mid-rank premium, classic fun. Thank you for reading today’s blog, we still have more to come, so check back in soon for more![/p][p][/p][p]Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p]Today, we’re taking a look at an experimental Soviet bomber created according to the flying wing concept. A truly unusual design coming to the game in the next major update![/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]The development of the DB-LK began back in 1937. In the spring of 1938, after a full-scale mock-up was approved by a special commission of the Air Force, it was decided to go ahead with construction on a functional prototype. To manage the project, the special design bureau named KB-4 was organized at Moscow Plant No. 156. The aircraft received the preliminary designation of “Order 350” and was designed as a twin-fuselage bomber for the USSR. The overall design followed the flying wing concept, with an unusual reverse-swept wing construction.[/p][p][/p][p]Due to the unique and complex design, it inevitably faced serious difficulties. Initially, the aircraft was designed around the promising M-88 engines, which were projected to provide a speed of 550-600 km/h. Due to their unreliability, however, the less powerful M-87B engines had to be installed instead. Construction of the aircraft was mostly complete by September 1939, and state trials were conducted between April and June of the following year, which quickly revealed significant shortcomings.[/p][p][/p][p]The aircraft failed to meet the requirements for maximum speed, and had excessively high take-off and landing speeds, which was typical for tailless designs. Despite the project flying faster than the production DB-3, the state commission did not accept the machine, and further work on the project was discontinued. The only prototype was destroyed in October 1941 as German troops approached Moscow, as there were no available pilots capable of ferrying the plane to the rear.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the DB-LK![/h3][p]Feast your eyes on a highly ambitious bomber project developed in the USSR in the late 1930s. Let’s get acquainted with the DB-LK, set to become one of the most unusual aircraft in the game when it arrives in the next major update! A twin-engine flying wing with a solid bomb load, decent speed and maneuverability, and premium status![/p][p][/p][p]The DB-LK is a twin-fuselage bomber with two cockpits, which is quite a rare setup overall. One cockpit is set up for the pilot, while the other houses the navigator/bombardier. It uses a pair of M-87B engines, which accelerate this green wing to a respectable speed for such an early bomber.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Interesting: The working project name “DB-LK” stands for “Dalniy Bombardirovshchik – Letayushcheye Krylo” (Long-Range Bomber — Flying Wing), although the aircraft is technically not a true flying wing, as it has two fuselages and a stabilizer.[/p][p][/p][p]The DB-LK has quite an interesting armament layout. As a bomber, it carries a solid payload of over 2000 kg on external hardpoints in the center of the fuselage and in small bomb bays inside the fuselage itself. It can equip the usual high-explosive fragmentation bombs and also armor-piercing bombs to combat naval vessels. The DB-LK features both offensive and defensive guns, all familiar 7.62 mm ShKAS machine guns. Two offensive guns are positioned in the middle of the wing between the engines, and a defensive pair are positioned in each tailcone for the gunners. These are relatively powerful light machine guns, but the angles of the defensive turrets aren’t ideal, and have several blind spots.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]So, what do we think? The DB-LK is a very irregular bomber with an excellent payload and premium status. It’ll be a great pick for new pilots who want an interesting playstyle and a head start in the Soviet air tree, working effectively in both air, combined, and naval battles![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]You’ll be able to get acquainted with this curious bomber very soon in the next major update. In the meantime, keep an eye on the news for more interesting additions we’ll be adding![/p][p]Please note that the vehicle's characteristics may be changed before being added to the game.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube][p][/p][p]On December 1st, Portugal celebrates Restoration of Independence Day! It was on this date in 1640 that the Portuguese revolted against Spain, which had controlled the country for several decades at the time, and declared independence. Join in with a new video from our Moments of Valor series, dedicated to Portugal![/p][p][/p][h2]Check out the “Que quem quis sempre pôde” Bundle![/h2][p][/p][p][/p]

[p]Packs included in this bundle are also available for purchase separately with a 30% discount![/p]

[p][/p][p]The M5A1 5th Canadian Armoured Division Pack is also available with a 50% discount, it also includes the unique “LICAS” camouflage!
[/p][p][/p]

[p]The bundle is available until December 8th 12:00 (GMT). Available for PC players only.[/p]

[p][/p][p]Players on all platforms who already own all vehicles in the bundle can also earn the title by playing 3 battles with each vehicle before December 8th. You can complete the task in random battles, except for \[Assault] mode.[/p]

• [p]Track your progress in the hangar by clicking Nickname → Achievements → Holidays → Moments of Valor: Portugal.[/p]

[p][/p][h2]Check out some unique Portuguese camouflages![/h2][p]The following camouflages are permanently available in-game for Golden Eagles:[/p]

• [p]VRCC Centauro (Rank VI, Italy) — unique “Portuguese Armed Forces” camouflage[/p]
• [p]P-47D-30 (Rank III, Italy) — unique “Portuguese Air Force” camouflage[/p]
• [p]A-7K (Rank VII, USA) — unique “Portuguese Air Force” camouflage[/p]
• [p]F-16AM (Rank VIII, France) — unique “Jaguar” camouflage[/p]
• [p]Beaufighter Mk X (Rank II, Great Britain) — unique “BF10” camouflage[/p]
• [p]Alpha Jet A (Rank VI, Germany) — unique “Asas de Portugal” camouflage[/p]
• [p]P-400 (Rank II, USA) — unique “Portuguese Air Force” camouflage[/p]
• [p]MH-60L DAP (Rank VII, USA) — unique “Portuguese Air Force” camouflage[/p]
• [p]F-84G-21-RE (Rank V, Italy) — unique “Dragões” camouflage[/p]
• [p]Stuart VI (5th CAD) (Rank II, USA) — unique “LICAS” camouflage[/p]

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[p][/p][p]Our final naval event of the year is dedicated to the coastal guards who patrolled the USSR’s maritime borders on ships and boats. Participate in naval battles to earn themed decals, the Soviet border guard flag, and the AK-225 patrol gunboat![/p][p][/p]

[p]From December 3rd (11:00 GMT) until December 17th (11:00 GMT), earn mission points in Naval Battles, unlock stages and get rewards![/p]

[p][/p][h2]AK-225 — an Event Vehicle Gun Boat for the USSR at Rank V[/h2][p][/p][p][/p][p]The AK-225 was developed as a patrol gunboat for the USSR’s allies. This small, fast vessel with a tracking radar features an impressive armament loadout consisting of an automatic 57 mm cannon with armor-piercing and high-explosive fragmentation rounds. It’s mounted on the bow, and the famous six-barrel AK-630 mount is mounted on the stern. The AK-225 can dispatch other boats and low-flying aircraft with ease![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Among the rewards in the event is also this chest. When opened, there is a chance to receive one of the following items:[/p]

• [p]50,000 - 100,000 Silver Lions[/p]
• [p]Silver Lion and Research boosters[/p]
• [p]Random Wagers and Orders[/p]
• [p]Universal Backups (1 - 3) [/p]
• [p]A random obtainable camouflage for a vehicle you own[/p]
• [p]1 day of Premium Account[/p]

[p][/p][h2]How to get all rewards[/h2][p]Each stage can be completed for 35,000 mission points, every new stage you finish will give you a new reward.[/p][p] [/p]

[p]Please note: After finishing a stage, you need to collect the reward manually. To do this, click on your name in-game, go to “Sea Defender” and click the “Get Reward” button.[/p]

[p][/p][p]You’re able to earn mission points in Naval Battles at Rank III or above in Arcade and Realistic Battles. The number of mission points to complete a stage depends on the game mode and the maximum Rank of the vehicle that you use in battle. There’s a multiplier for earning mission points, which is shown in the task description in-game.  [/p][p] [/p][p]You can also earn mission points by using event vehicles that are Rank I and II. Event vehicles that can be used have the name of the event that they were obtainable in on their stat card.[/p][p] [/p]

[p]Stages change every two days at 11:00 GMT on December 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th, 13th and 15th.[/p]

[p][/p][h2]Rewards are given when you complete a specific number of stages[/h2]

• [p]For 1 Stage: trophy with a random reward[/p]
• [p]For 2 Stages: one of the reward decals[/p]
• [p]For 3 Stages: trophy with a random reward[/p]
• [p]For 4 Stages: one of the reward decals[/p]
• [p]For 5 Stages: trophy with a random reward[/p]
• [p]For 6 Stages: “Flag of the naval units of the Border Troops of the USSR” ship flag[/p]
• [p]For 7 Stages: non-tradable coupon for the AK-225[/p]

[p] [/p][h2]Discounts for purchasing stages using Golden Eagles[/h2][p]Incomplete stages can be purchased for Golden Eagles, but if you’re significantly close to completing a stage, its price will be significantly reduced.[/p][p][/p][p]Let’s say you have earned 85% of the required mission points to complete a stage, then the price of purchasing this stage will be halved. If you’re near the finish line for a stage and are at 95% progress, then the price will be reduced by five times. For example, if you’ve scored 30,000 mission points, then the price for unlocking this stage will be 499 Golden Eagles. If you’ve scored 33,500 mission points, then you’ll only need 199 Golden Eagles. Remember to keep this in mind if you run out of time for a stage![/p][p][/p][h2]Coupon Upgrade[/h2][p]When you complete 7 stages, you’ll receive a non-tradable coupon for AK-225, where using it will immediately activate the vehicle on your account. If you don’t want the vehicle and would like to sell the coupon on the Market, you’ll need the “Upgrade for coupon” item.[/p][p] [/p]

[p]The “Upgrade for coupon” item can be earned in parallel with the stages throughout the event from December 3rd (11:00 GMT) until December 17th (11:00 GMT) for 600,000 mission points.[/p]

[p][/p][p]After receiving the “Upgrade for coupon” item, you can convert the non-tradable coupon into a tradable one and sell it on the Market. The tradable coupon can be sold after 6 days from the moment it’s created.[/p][p] [/p][p]The “Upgrade for coupon” item is valid until December 22nd (11:00 GMT). Until this time, you can use it or exchange it for War Bonds. Afterwards, it’ll disappear from your inventory.[/p][p] [/p]

[p]To make a tradable coupon, select the “Coupon AK-225 (USSR)” in your inventory and click the “Modify” button.[/p]

[p][/p][p]You can track the progress of the stages and the “Upgrade for coupon” item by clicking on your Nickname > Achievements > Sea Defender. If you don’t manage to complete a stage on time or would like to purchase a stage, you’ll be able to do so until December 22nd from the Achievements window, you can purchase each stage with Golden Eagles which will give you the corresponding rewards.[/p]

Thank you for all of your submissions last week! For the 200th competition in the series we’re celebrating the vehicles that have earned their place in history, and in your hearts. This week, capture a screenshot featuring a machine you consider a legend, whether it’s famous in real life, iconic in War Thunder, or simply a personal favorite you’ve relied on across your battles. The three most popular and three selected by us will get 300 GE. See the winners down below!

[h2]Let’s begin the 200th edition of our competition![/h2]

Create a stunning screenshot and submit it on the War Thunder Steam Community Hub with the tag #WTscreen200. You have time until the 5th of December to submit your screenshot.

After that date, 6 winners will be selected (3 of which will be the highest rated by the community and 3 selected by our judges), each of which receive a reward of 300GE.



[h3]Terms:[/h3]

Your screenshot must include at least one player vehicle.
You must add the #WTscreen200 tag (title cannot have any other text in it).
Artists may only win by popular vote once per four screenshot competitions.
• Screenshots need to be compliant with the War Thunder rules.
  
• You need to be the author of the screenshot.
  
• Screenshot needs to be new. You cannot use those which have previously been published or used in other competitions.
  
• We will only accept raw screenshots from the game. You cannot use any editing software nor any other visual enhancements (like Nvidia Ansel filters).
  
• You can use filters and settings built into War Thunder.
  
• You can use the replay functionality built into War Thunder.
  
• Rewards will be delivered to the author's account within 14 working days.
  

[h2]And now, time for the winners of the competition’s 199th edition – City Limits![/h2]

[h3]Winners selected via community votes:[/h3]
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3610112952
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3610498837
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3610182003

[h3]Winners selected by our judges:[/h3]
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3610141332
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3610929936
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3611612902

Each winner will get 300GE! Congratulations and see you next week!