War Thunder News

[p][/p][p][/p][p]Today, we’ll be looking at a trio of Commonwealth Hornets joining the British tree, bringing some sting from across the pond and down under![/p][p][/p][h2] [/h2][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]In the 1970s Canada, like many other countries, faced a choice of where to go with the modernisation of its jet fighter fleet. Operating 3 aging types with the, CF-101, CF-104 and CF-116 (F-5), a drastic upgrade and streamline was needed for the Royal Canadian Air Force to defend its skies and operate across its vast, often cold, territory. Canada considered many options, like the Tornado, Mirage F.1 and the American roster of F-14, F-15, F-16 and the F-18. While the F-14 came very close, geopolitics and cost lead to the F/A-18 being selected as the winner in 1980. Its characteristics already met the needs of Canadian operations, having a durable undercarriage for rough landings, twin engines for extra reliability and a suitable range for the vastness of its operational coverage, the carrier-borne routes of the Hornet perfectly suited the Canadian requirements.[/p][p] [/p][p]Canadian Hornets feature several modifications both internally and externally, such as lights and other bespoke changes. CF-188s have taken part in operations in the Gulf Wars, Yugoslavia, NATO Peacekeeping and even most recently, operations in the Middle East. Life extension programs have upgraded and will continue to keep the Hornet in Canadian service until a replacement can be procured. [/p][p] [/p][p]Australia, with a much similar mission to Canada, needed to modernise its fleet of Mirage III fighters. With considerations as far back as 1968 on the future fighter of the Royal Australian Air Force, it was not until the 1980s that the Hornet would ultimately come through as the candidate to replace them after assessing many of the same aircraft that Canada did. After allowing its preferred options in the F-16 and F-18 to mature somewhat, the decision was ultimately made to go with the F/A-18 as it became. Domestic assembly would take place in Australia, with Government Aircraft Factories (GAF) and Commonwealth Aircraft Corporation (CAC) both participating in production and assembly.  Hornets began to enter RAAF service in 1985, and have since been upgraded several times with the Hornet Upgrade Program (HUG), introducing new weaponry, systems, structural reworks and hardware improvements. [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p] [/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the Commonwealth Hornets![/h3][p]Ever since we first introduced the F/A-18 family to the game, many of you have requested the Commonwealth variants of these aircraft. Today, we’re happy to announce 3 versions will be joining the game in the next major update. Representatives from both Canada and Australia will join the British tree, providing an excellent all round platform in both air and ground battles![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Let’s start with the Canadian variant, the CF-18, otherwise officially known as the CF-188. The CF-188A features an AN/AAS-38B targeting pod, as well as GBU-10, GBU-12 and GBU-16 Paveway IIs, GBU-24 Paveway IIIs as well as AGM-65D and G for an immense guided arsenal to bring to bare on ground targets. Alongside conventional armaments like high drag and standard bombs, napalm bombs and the CRV-7 rocket pods unique to this Hornet Variant. We also can’t forget to mention the internal 20 mm M61A1, which features SAPHEI rounds and a firing rate of around 6000 rpm. This lets you make short work of lightly armored ground targets, as well as making use of its radar gunsight for accurate shots in the air. [/p][p][/p][p]The CF-188A is coming as a premium aircraft, providing a versatile option for those wishing to storm through the ranks of the British aircraft tree! Pre-orders for it have started today.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Speaking of which, for its air-to-air weaponry, the CF-188A will feature the AIM-7P missile, which needs no introduction to many pilots! This is one of the best Semi-Active Radar Homing (SARH) missiles in game, losing out only to the likes of the R-27ER. AIM-7P features both datalink and inertial guidance, meaning even if your aircraft loses radar lock, you can require lock at a later stage and the missile will continue its path once reconnected. That’s not to mention its excellent range, letting you reliably hit targets from 15km and even sometimes up to 20km away! Not forgetting the all-aspect AIM-9L for those short range engagements.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The first Australian variant will be the RAAF F/A-18A (Early), which will help to bridge the gap between the Phantom FG.1 and Sea Harrier FA.2. This variant will feature a slightly trimmed down arsenal compared to the CF-188A, but with a lower Battle Rating naturally to suit that. You can expect the same excellent handling in terms of flight performance (not forgetting the maneuvering mode control!) as well as a very well rounded RWR system that keeps you well informed of the threats around you, including threat ID and directional warning. In terms of weaponry, this version features the AIM-9L for short range, and for longer ranges, the AIM-7M/F variants. Ground attack wise, this F/A-18 will feature conventional bombs, high drag bombs, napalm as well as a twin set of AGM-62 ER/DL TV guided bombs. For a touch more precision in your strikes![/p][p] [/p][p]Lastly we can delve into the  RAAF F/A-18A (Late)! This version will be the HUG-2+ upgrade. Featuring a LITENING targeting pod and JDAMs which are unique to this Hornet modification. You can also expect 10 of the active radar-guided AIM-120C-5 AMRAAMs. This will be a truly versatile all round force both in the skies and against ground targets, with robust loadout options for almost any mission you face. [/p][p] [/p][p]We hope fans of Commonwealth aviation will enjoy these “aircraft with a sting” as we welcome more Australian and Canadian vehicles to the game. That’s all for now, stay tuned to the news for more details on what else you can expect in the next major Update for War Thunder![/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’ll be taking a look at the Sky Sabre, a Multi-Vehicle SAM System consisting of one radar vehicle and two launch vehicles with lethal missiles![/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]The Sky Sabre has its roots back to the early 2000s, when the British Government awarded MBDA UK a contract to develop a new, common missile under the Future Local Area Air Defence System (FLAADS) program. This program aimed to replace the old Rapier missile systems that had been in service since the 1970s.[/p][p]What came from the FLAADS program was the CAMM (Common Anti-Air Modular Missile), designed to be used on a multitude of different platforms; either land, air or sea. It was first incorporated onto Royal Navy ships in 2018 and an extended-range variant called the CAMM-ER was developed in 2023 in collaboration with Italy.[/p][p]The Sky Sabre, which uses the CAMM missile, entered service with the British Army in December 2021, with six being operated by the 16th Regiment Royal Artillery. In 2022, to reinforce NATO anti-aircraft security in the region, one Sky Sabre was sent to Poland and remained in service until December 2024, when it was returned to the UK for maintenance and repairs.[/p][p]Currently, five Sky Sabres are being used for training and protecting the skies of the UK. One Sky Sabre has been located on the Falkland Islands since early 2022, where it replaced all Rapier missile systems previously stationed there.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the Sky Sabre![/h3][p]Meet the Sky Sabre, joining Great Britain at the end of the SPAA line in the Tusk Force major update, ready to reinforce British ground force lineups with some lethal anti-air firepower! This is all thanks to two types of surface-to-air missiles that can take out aircraft at long ranges. Let’s take a closer look![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Just like some of the vehicles released in the previous major update, the Sky Sabre is a Multi-Vehicle SAM System (MVSS). This means it comprises three vehicles: a radar vehicle that tracks targets, and two launcher vehicles that can be placed. The radar is the SAAB Giraffe AMB, and when using it, you’ll be able to track and fire at targets using the newly added Radar Control Screen, just like the other MVSS vehicles. 16 missiles from the launchers (when both are placed) can be fired simultaneously and track individual targets when you click on them on the radar control screen. Like the other MVSS vehicles, this makes the Sky Sabre a serious threat against planes and helicopters![/p][p][/p][p]Trivia: The Sky Sabre launches missiles vertically using a “cold launch” system. This is where gas pushes the missile out of the launcher and into the air, then the missile turns towards its target using an orientational engine before the missile engine itself starts and makes its way to the target.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The Sky Sabre features the EMADS launcher system developed by MBDA. This launcher can hold 8 missiles and fires two types which are both brand-new to the game: the CAMM and CAMM-ER, each with a range of 25 km and 45 km respectively. These missiles are extremely powerful and will explode in the proximity of planes and helicopters and can reach a max speed over Mach 3! Both missiles feature an ARH+IOG+DL guidance system, making them excellent at tracking targets in all points of flight.[/p][p][/p][p]Did you know?: CAMM is short for “Common Anti-Air Modular Missile”. As the name might suggest, CAMM can be incorporated onto various platforms and is currently used on Royal Navy ships and the Sky Sabre. The use of these missiles on ships and land vehicles both make up the “Sea Ceptor” and “Land Ceptor” weapon systems.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Both the radar and launchers are mounted onto the MAN HX77 8x8 truck. This truck, with all equipment mounted, weighs around 32 tons and is capable of reaching top speeds of 100 km/h thanks to its good engine. It has virtually no armor protection to speak of, and you should not be expecting to survive against bombs, tank shells, and strafing aircraft (if they even manage to get that close to you!) Plus, the radar vehicle is really tall, so make sure to *try* and hide it somewhere! That may be difficult though.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]So that’s the Sky Sabre for you — deadly CAMM missiles that are capable of taking out planes and helicopters at medium to long engagement ranges with ease! Be on the look out for this vehicle coming to the game in the Tusk Force major update soon.[/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]Introducing the next major update trailer for War Thunder: Tusk Force! [/p][p][/p][previewyoutube][/previewyoutube]

[p][/p][p][/p][p]Today we’ll be going over Mackensen, the main reward in the Black Hussar naval event![/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]The decision to develop new battlecruisers in Germany was influenced by information surrounding the British Queen Elizabeth-class battleships, equipped with 381 mm guns and a speed of up to 25 knots. On August 13th, 1912, Naval Minster Alfred von Tirpitz instructed Vice-Admiral Rohlmann to develop options for ships with eight 340 mm or 350 mm guns. After analyzing six projects, the option with 340 mm guns was initially chosen, but was rejected due to insufficient speed and seaworthiness. Further calculations showed that a displacement of 31,500 tons was necessary to achieve the required characteristics, which Tirpitz considered unacceptable.[/p][p]In search of a compromise, a version with eight 305 mm guns and stronger torpedo armament was proposed, which was even approved by Kaiser Wilhelm II. However, the naval command and the weapons department opposed it, insisting on more powerful weaponry. After much debate, they settled on a design with six 380 mm guns, following the example of the Bayern-class battleships, but in November 1913, work resumed in favor of eight 350 mm guns. Tirpitz, despite resistance, agreed to increase the displacement limit to 31,000 tons. On December 8th, 1913, this design was finally approved.[/p][p]Following the 1914-1915 program, the initial plan was to build seven cruisers, but only four from the project were laid down. Due to the outbreak of World War I, resources were redirected in favor of the submarine fleet and land operations. Not a single ship of this class was completed. In accordance with the Treaty of Versailles the cruisers were to be transferred to the Allies, but due to their unpreparedness for independent sea passage, they were replaced by the battleship Baden. In 1921-1922, the hulls of the unfinished ships were scrapped for metal.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing Mackensen![/h3][p]Mackensen is a battlecruiser that is not only distinguished by excellent weaponry and good survivability, but is also one of the fastest capital ships of its era! How can you get this battlecruiser? Mackensen can be obtained in the Black Hussar naval event that started today (link to details below). Let’s get acquainted with this ship![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The partially constructed Mackensen promised to be very competitive against the warships of its time. After lengthy discussions, 350 mm guns in four twin turrets were approved as the main caliber of the Mackensen. These guns can fire two types of massive 600 kg shells: armor-piercing and semi-armor-piercing with a large explosive charge. The power of Mackensen’s main caliber is enough to counter any ship of its rank, but the guns will have a hard time dealing with the most protected battleships in the game, even at short distances. There are 150 mm guns in casemate mounts with 6 on each side of the ship. Mackensen’s excellent torpedo armament is also worth mentioning: five torpedo tubes carry large 600 mm torpedoes, with a total ammunition load of 25.[/p][p][/p][p]Mackensen is also decently survivable overall. A sufficiently large crew can keep the ship running for quite a while, and although Mackensen’s armor is inferior to that of battleships, it provides good protection in medium and long-range combat. All vital compartments are protected by a 300 mm main armor belt, with armor of almost the same thickness on the main elevators. The gun platform’s armor belt is protected by 150 mm armor.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Speed is one of Mackensen’s main strengths, especially among its contemporaries. It can reach speeds of up to 28 knots (almost 52 km/h). A notable downside however is that the anti-aircraft weaponry is not very impressive. Mackensen only has slow firing 88 mm guns at its disposal, and there are no small caliber anti-aircraft guns present at all. It’s best to stay close to your allies when playing this ship![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]You can get Mackensen in the Black Hussar naval event that started today! Want to learn more about the event? Be sure to check it out through the link below![/p][p][/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p][p]Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][h3]Aircraft[/h3]

• [p]A bug that allowed aircraft to remain mostly unharmed from forward fuselage impacts from large air-to-air missiles with warheads similar to or larger than the AIM-9 has been fixed.[/p]

[p] [/p][h3]Matchmaking[/h3]

• [p]The technical issues with Custom Battles and Air Simulator Battles have been resolved, custom rooms can now be created again.[/p]

[p][/p][hr][/hr][p]Patch notes reflect only key changes, meaning they may not include a complete list of all improvements made. Additionally, War Thunder is constantly being updated and some changes may not require an update. Changes reflected in patch notes are formed by taking reactions and requests of the community from the bug reporting service, forums and other official platforms into account. Bug fixes and changes are implemented in order of importance, for example a game-breaking bug will be worked on and implemented sooner.[/p]