War Thunder News

[p][/p][p]On September 19th, 1969, the Mi-24 took to the skies for the first time, later becoming one of the most popular helicopters in the world. It was the first Soviet attack helicopter and the first combat helicopter in the world with retractable landing gear, allowing it to reach higher speeds. Until 1986, it remained the record holder in this category among helicopters, when test pilot Gurgen Karapetyan reached a speed of 368.4 km/h![/p][p] [/p][h2]The Mi-24D is temporarily available with a 30% discount![/h2][p]This helicopter is available in the game with a 30% discount, at 5,992 Golden Eagles. It will only be available for purchase during this promotion.[/p][p] [/p][p]When: From September 19th (11:00 GMT) until September 22nd (11:00 GMT).[/p][p]Where: USSR > Helicopters > Premium vehicles.[/p][p] [/p][p][/p][carousel][/carousel][p][/p][p]About this helicopter[/p]

• [p]The Mi-24D is a 1976 modification with an improved machine gun and redesigned crew cabin. Despite its considerable weight, it maintains an impressive speed. It can carry Falanga ATGMs with excellent armor penetration, 23 mm cannon pods, dozens of rockets and 250 or 500 kg bombs.[/p]

[p] [/p][p] [/p][h2]30% discount on the Mi-24P HFS 80 (Germany) and Mi-24P (Italy)![/h2][p]The German Mi-24P HFS 80 (rank VI) and Hungarian (in the Italian tree) Mi-24P (rank VI) helicopters have a 30% discount as well, at 6,111 Golden Eagles each.[/p][p] [/p][p]When: From September 19th (11:00 GMT) until September 22nd (11:00 GMT).[/p][p]Where: Germany / Italy > Helicopters > Premium vehicles.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][carousel][/carousel][p] [/p][p]About the Mi-24P[/p]

• [p]The Mi-24P modification aimed to enhance the helicopter’s cannons. In 1975, a twin-barrel 30 mm GSh-30-2k cannon was installed on the Mi-24 so that it could be more effective at combating armored vehicles. In 1981 the Mi-24 entered serial production, and was delivered to allies shortly after, including the GDR and Hungary. The Mi-24P continues to serve Hungary to this day. In addition to the powerful cannon, this variant has access to R-60 air-to-air missiles and Shturm anti-tank missiles.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p]The F-16I Sufa is a specialized Israeli variant of the American F-16 Fighting Falcon, developed in the early 2000s amidst growing military modernization in the Middle East.[/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]By the mid 1990s, Israel sought to replace aging aircraft like the F-4 Phantom II and A-4 Skyhawk, while also complementing its fleet of F-15s and earlier F-16s, as neighboring states were acquiring more advanced Russian aircraft and air defense systems. In 1999, Israel signed a deal with the United States under the Peace Marble V program, leading to the procurement of 102 two-seat F-16Is, making it the largest single fighter purchase in Israeli history.[/p][p]The Sufa (“Storm”) was heavily modified to meet Israel’s unique operational needs, featuring conformal fuel tanks for extended range, Israeli-made avionics, electronic warfare suites, helmet-mounted sights, and compatibility with domestic weapons. Its two-seat configuration also allowed for improved mission management, especially for deep strike and suppression of enemy air defense (SEAD) roles.[/p][p]Entering service in 2004, the F-16I quickly became the backbone of the Israeli Air Force (IAF), participating in operations such as 2006’s Lebanon War and later strikes in Syria, demonstrating the effectiveness of the upgrades the platform received. To date, the F-16I remains one of the most modern fighters employed by the Israeli air force.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the F-16I Sufa![/h3][p][/p][p]In the Tusk Force major update, the Israel aviation tree will gain access to one of the most advanced fighters currently employed by the IAF, namely the F-16I Sufa. Although based on the American F-16 Block 52, the Sufa represents an extensive upgrade program to the F-16 platform including many domestic Israeli systems. Let’s take a further look at this fighter![/p][p][/p][p]Visually, the Sufa might closely resemble the Barak II which seasoned Israel air players will have already acquainted themselves with. While this may likely be attributed to the twin-seat cockpit layout, the F-16I speaks an entirely different story when throwing a glimpse “under the hood”. Equipped with the new Pratt & Whitney F100-PW-229 turbofan engine the F-16I keeps the dynamic characteristics of its predecessor, despite the slight increase in mass. However, it will obviously lack in dynamics when using new Conformal Fuel Tanks.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Speaking of increased payloads, the Sufa retains the large selection of suspended weapons while also getting new ones, meaning that it will have access to the advanced IR (AIM-9L and AIM-9M) and ARH missiles (AIM-120C-5) as well as a large selection of precision guided and unguided bombs. Among the strike weapons, it is worth noting the line of SPICE bombs with a TV guidance, ranging from 250 (new to the game) to 2000 kg. As such, the F-16I can conduct strike missions in combined battles with even greater accuracy while avoiding straying too close to hostile air defences. Another worthy addition is the PAWS-2 MAWS, capable of keeping the pilot aware of incoming missiles.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The F-16I Sufa will soon be making its way to the top rank of the Israeli aviation tree in the Tusk Force major update. In the meantime however, make sure to stay tuned to the news for the latest information regarding the upcoming update. That’s all for today, pilots. Until the next one, we wish you clear skies and good hunting![/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]On September 18th, 1947, the National Security Act was signed into law, separating the U.S. Air Force from the Army and giving it the status of an independent branch from the armed forces. On this day, official ceremonies are held at the Pentagon and air bases, demonstration flights with modern and historical aircraft fly over, and open days are held at Air Force museums.[/p][p] [/p][h2]Bostwick’s P-47M-1-RE and Wetmore’s P-51D-10 are temporarily available for Golden Eagles![/h2]

• [p]George Bostwick’s P-47M-1-RE is available for 6090 Golden Eagles[/p]
• [p]Raymond Wetmore’s P-51D-10 is available for 4880 Golden Eagles[/p]

[p][/p][p]When: From September 18th (11:00 GMT) until September 22nd (11:00 GMT).[/p][p]Where: USA > Aviation > Premium vehicles[/p][p][/p][p][/p][carousel][/carousel][p][/p][h3]About these aircraft[/h3]

• [p]George Bostwick fought in Western Europe, shooting down at least eight aircraft and destroying six ground targets. His P-47M-1-RE is the most advanced modification of the P-47. The improved engine allows the aircraft to retain energy well and not fall apart at high speeds. This fighter features great speed and maneuverability at high altitudes and is armed with eight Browning machine guns.[/p]
• [p]Ray Wetmore also fought in the European theater, shooting down 21 German aircraft, becoming one of the most successful American aces. His P-51D-10 is capable of ground attack and interception roles, with the aircraft able to take up to 1,500 kg of ordinance. The six 12.7 mm machine guns also have a high ammo count exceeding 2,000 rounds![/p]

[p] [/p][p] [/p][h2]50% Discount on the "US Air Force Birthday" Bundle[/h2][p][/p][p]Until September 22nd (11:00 GMT) a bundle including Ray Wetmore`s P-51D-10, George Bostwick's P-47M-1-RE Thunderbolt and a P-38K![/p][p][/p][p] To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store.[/p][h3]
"US Air Force Birthday" Bundle -50%[/h3][p]84.97 42.49[/p][p]This bundle includes:[/p]

• [p]Ray Wetmore`s P-51D-10 Pack[/p]
• [p]George Bostwick's P-47M-1-RE Thunderbolt Pack[/p]
• [p]P-38K Pack[/p]

[p] [/p][h2]Get the “USAF Day 2025” decal![/h2][p] [/p][p]When: From September 18th (11:00 GMT) until September 22nd (11:00 GMT).[/p][p]Task: Earn 3,000 mission points with US aircraft at rank III or higher to receive the “USAF Day 2025” decal.[/p][p]Please note: After finishing the task, you need to collect the reward manually.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p] “USAF Day 2025” decal[/p][p][/p][p]Additional details:[/p]

• [p]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 → US Air Force Birthday.[/p]
• [p]You can find the decal in the “Holidays” tab in the customization menu.[/p]

[p][/p][p]The second prototype of the Lockheed P-38 Lightning, the YP-38, made its first flight on September 17th, 1940. The P-38 entered service in mid-1941 and was widely used during the Second World War in the Pacific and Asia. The P-38 was the only American combat aircraft to be mass-produced throughout the entire war.[/p][p] [/p][h2]The YP-38 is temporarily available for Golden Eagles![/h2][p]The YP-38 (rank II) is temporarily available to purchase for 1,150 Golden Eagles.[/p][p] [/p][p]When: From September 16th (11:00 GMT) until September 19th (11:00 GMT).[/p][p]Where: USA > Aviation > Premium vehicles.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][carousel][/carousel][p] [/p][p]About this aircraft [/p]

• [p]The YP-38 maintains speed at altitude quite well, allowing it to effectively operate as an interceptor. The pilot is protected by armor plates on all sides, enhancing survivability. The YP-38 is equipped with a powerful 37 mm cannon, supported by two 12.7 mm and two 7.62 mm machine guns.[/p]

[p][/p][p]The F-5TH Super Tigris is an extensively modernized variant of the Northrop F-5E/F Tiger II developed and operated by the Royal Thai Air Force in the late 2010s.[/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]Originally acquired in the late 1970s during the Cold War, Thailand purchased the F-5 to strengthen its air defenses amid growing regional tensions in Southeast Asia at the time and rising influence of both the U.S. and Soviet Union in the region. By the 2010s, the RTAF faced aging fighter fleets and limited budgets, making full replacement with modern, current generation fighters financially difficult. Instead, Thailand opted to upgrade its F-5s in cooperation with Israel’s Elbit Systems, producing the F-5TH “Super Tigris”. The upgrade added modern avionics, radar, electronic warfare systems, new cockpit displays, and compatibility with advanced air-to-air and precision-guided weapons, bringing the aircraft’s capabilities close to those of newer multirole fighters.[/p][p][/p][p]The F-5TH both allowed Thailand to extend the service life of its existing fleet of F-5s while also complementing newer fighters like the Swedish JAS 39 Gripen. Entering operational service in 2019, the Super Tigris ensures that the RTAF continues to field capable multirole aircraft to the present day despite procurement constraints. The type is expected to remain in service until the late 2020s before reaching the age limit of the airframes.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the F-5TH Super Tigris![/h3][p]The F-5TH Super Tigris is one of the latest modifications of a classic Cold War jet fighter that War Thunder players already know very well and which is seemingly defying obsolescence against all odds. This latest Thai upgrade brings the venerable F-5 into the modern age of jet combat, introducing various state-of the-art systems and, most importantly, greatly expanding the selection of advanced ordnance options to rival the latest fighters of other nations. Let’s take a look at this jet, coming in the Tusk Force major update![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Based off the F-5T that might already be familiar to many of you from a previous update, the F-5TH builds upon the Tiger’s signature speed and agility and combines them with meaningful upgrades, intended to bring the aircraft on par with much more recent fighter types. As such, the aircraft retains the same engines and overall design, but is outfitted with advanced avionics and incorporates a fully digital “glass cockpit” as well as a more capable radar system.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The true star of the show however, is found in the aircraft’s suspended weapons arsenal. While the previous gen F-5T already offered a respectable selection of advanced weapons, the Super Tigris elevates this to another level. Being modified to carry the latest air-to-air missiles, the F-5TH can mount AIM-9M, Python-3, as well as Derby ARH missiles. In addition to this, the Super Tigris’ arsenal is further augmented by the ability to mount guided bombs. All this taken into account results in a greatly expanded versatility which underlines the F-5TH multirole capability. In other words, thanks to the availability of these new weapons, the Super Tigris can be seen as a force to be reckoned with, even in top tier matches, despite its Cold War legacy! [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The Super Tigris will soon be making its way to War Thunder as part of the Tusk Force major update. Arriving to the top ranks of the Thai subtree, the F-5TH will provide the Japanese aviation tree with access to another excellent fighter, further reinforcing its top tier lineup. That’s all for today. In the meantime, make sure to stay tuned to the news for the latest information regarding the upcoming update![/p][p][/p][p]Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.[/p]