War Thunder News

[p][/p][p][/p][p]Check out the famous Czechoslovakian L-39 trainer coming to War Thunder in its combat training variant, the L-39ZA![/p][p][/p][h2]L-39ZA: A Premium Strike Aircraft for the USSR at Rank V[/h2][p]At a glance:[/p]

• [p] Good handling[/p]
• [p] Bombs and rockets[/p]
• [p] Low top speed[/p]
• [p] Two flap positions and an air brake[/p]
• [p] Low ammo count for the cannon[/p]

[p][/p][h2]Pre-order – L-39ZA Albatros Pack[/h2][p]To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store![/p][p]49.99[/p]

• [p] L-39ZA Albatros (Rank V, USSR)[/p]
• [p] 2000 Golden Eagles[/p]
• [p] Premium account for 15 days[/p]
• [p] Pre-order bonus: unique title "Bird of passage"[/p]
• [p] Pre-order bonus: unique decal "Albatross"
  [/p]

[p][/p][p]Vehicle History[/p][p][/p][p]The Czechoslovakian L-39 jet trainer replaced the L-29 Delfin. It was a completely new aircraft that featured a simple and reliable design and received a more powerful engine with almost twice the thrust as the L-29. The prototype first took to the skies on November 4th 1968 and serial production began in 1972. In 1974, development of a combat training variant called the L-39ZA began, equipped with a 23 mm GSh-23L cannon and reinforced chassis. Serial production of this variant began in 1980. Later on, special export variants were produced.[/p][p][/p][p]The L-39ZA was tested in the USSR in 1979, where it confirmed its effectiveness as a light attack aircraft. A total of 265 aircraft of this modification were built, entering service with the Air Forces of Czechoslovakia, the GDR, Bulgaria, Romania, Syria, Algeria among several other countries.[/p][p][/p][p]In the 1980s and 1990s, the L-39 proved itself as a universal platform for training and combat operations. Even after the collapse of the Warsaw Pact, the L-39 remains in demand — many of these aircraft are still in operation in various countries, and its successor, the L-39NG, L-59 and L-159 continue to build on the success of this legendary aircraft. Thanks to the combination of simplicity, reliability and versatility, the L-39 Albatros is rightfully considered as one of the best combat trainer aircraft in the world.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]Introducing the L-39ZA Albatros[/h2][p][/p][p]Meet the combat variant of the famous Czechoslovakian L-39 trainer coming to the game in the Leviathans major update as a rank V premium for the USSR! This is the first fully domestically designed Czechoslovakian aircraft to arrive to the game and today pre-orders for it have started! So without further ado, let’s dive into the details.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The L-39ZA Albatros is a two-seat subsonic jet aircraft that was not only used for training pilots, but also was used as a standalone combat strike aircraft. The L-39ZA features a twin-barreled 23 mm cannon positioned under the cockpit at the center of the fuselage, so aiming this gun is pretty easy! Although having said this, the total ammunition is just 150 rounds, so you’re going to have to make sure that your shots count. For destroying ground vehicles, the L-39ZA features a good amount of bombs and rockets — up to 1000 kg of bombs ranging from 100, 250 and 500 kg, as well as up to 64 small S-5K rockets.[/p][p][/p][p]We’d like to note that in real life, the L-39ZA can indeed carry air-to-air missiles, however the introduction of these missiles to the aircraft in-game would inevitably lead to its Battle Rating increasing. Given the L-39ZA’s speed characteristics, it would make this aircraft easy prey for opponents if it were to have a higher Battle Rating. As a result, we’ve decided to introduce the ground attack variant of this aircraft, making it an excellent addition to ground force lineups at rank V. It will also be able to play effectively in air modes at its rank too.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Speaking of speed, the L-39ZA can reach a maximum speed of around 760 km/h, where it can be controlled well throughout its entire speed range thanks to the short wings and high tail that provide excellent turn and roll rates. Plus, the L-39ZA has two positions for its flaps along with an air brake, helping to accurately line up on ground targets and give an additional advantage while turning in air battles.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The L-39ZA Albatros combat-trainer is coming to War Thunder in the Leviathans major update! From today, you can pre-order this strike aircraft to get unique bonuses, Golden Eagles and Premium Account time. Follow the link above to the store page and keep an eye on the news for more dev blogs coming 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]On June 6th 1944, the Western Front opened in the European theater of the Second World War. A record-breaking150,000 Allied soldiers landed on the beaches of Normandy with support from the sea and air. D-Day is one of the most important events in the history of the 20th century, and we celebrate it every year![/p][p][/p][h2]Unique Bundles Available in the Gaijin.net Store![/h2]

[p]When: From June 6th (11:00 GMT) until June 9th (11:00 GMT).[/p]

[p][/p][p]Celebrate the anniversary with the following unique bundles available for purchase in the Gaijin.net store.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]“First in Deed” Bundle -30%[/h3][p][/p][p]To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store![/p][p]$98.36 $68.85[/p]

• [p] M4A3E2 Sherman Jumbo Cobra King;[/p]
• [p] M18 Black Cat Pack;[/p]
• [p] George Bostwick's P-47M-1-RE Thunderbolt Pack;[/p]
• [p] Mustang Pack;[/p]
• [p] Unique title: “First in Deed”;[/p]
• [p] Unique decal: “First United States Army Insignia”.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][h3]“Sledgehammer” Bundle -30%[/h3][p][/p][p]To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store![/p][p]$93.96 $65.77[/p]

• [p] M10 Achilles Pack;[/p]
• [p] Sherman Firefly Ic Pack;[/p]
• [p] Prendergast`s Spitfire FR Mk.XIVe Pack;[/p]
• [p] Typhoon Pack;[/p]
• [p] Unique title: “Sledgehammer”;[/p]
• [p] Unique decal: “2nd Army Formation badge”.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][h3]“Overlord” Bundle -50%[/h3][p][/p][p]To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store![/p][p]$192 $96.16[/p]

• [p] M4A3E2 Sherman Jumbo Cobra King;[/p]
• [p] M18 Black Cat Pack;[/p]
• [p] George Bostwick's P-47M-1-RE Thunderbolt Pack;[/p]
• [p] Mustang Pack;[/p]
• [p] M10 Achilles Pack;[/p]
• [p] Sherman Firefly Ic Pack;[/p]
• [p] Prendergast`s Spitfire FR Mk.XIVe Pack;[/p]
• [p] Typhoon Pack;[/p]
• [p] Unique title: “Overlord”;[/p]
• [p] Unique decal: “SHAEF insignia”.[/p]

[p][/p]

• [p] + Decals and titles from “First in deed” and “Sledgehammer” bundles.[/p]

[p]Please note! You can also get the unique titles and decals if you log into the game from June 6th to June 9th and get at least three victories, while at the same time you have previously purchased all separate packs that are included in the bundles above. The titles and decals will be assigned after June 11th to all players who have fulfilled these conditions. [/p][p] [/p][h2]Take part in the Normandy ‘44 event to get the T86![/h2]

[p]When: From June 5th (11:00 GMT) until June 17th (11:00 GMT).[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p]Play in Ground battles, earn points and get themed decals and a decoration, plus the American T86 premium tank that is capable of driving on water thanks to being amphibious! [/p][p][/p][p]CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE DETAILS[/p][p][/p][h2]The Rough Rider: Theodore Roosevelt III in June’s Pages of History![/h2]

[p]When: From June 1st (11:00 GMT) until June 30th (11:00 GMT).[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p]This month’s Pages of History features Theodore Roosevelt Jr, the son of U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt and a veteran of both World Wars. He was the only general to personally land on the beaches of Normandy along with the rest of the soldiers on the morning of June 6th 1944. People thought he was going to his death, but the 56-year old (who walked with a cane) not only survived but also brilliantly commanded his subordinates. [/p][p][/p][p]CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE DETAILS[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]Get a decal for D-Day![/h2][p]Decorate your vehicles with this unique decal.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]“D-Day 2025” decal [/p][p][/p][p]When: From June 6th (11:00 GMT) until June 10th (07:00 GMT).[/p][p]Task: Play 3 battles using US, British or French vehicles at rank III or higher to receive the “D-Day 2025” decal![/p][p][/p][p]Additional details:[/p]

• [p] Your activity must not be below 70%.[/p]
• [p] You can complete the task in random battles, except for Enduring Confrontation missions, and \[Assault] mode.[/p]
• [p] Track your progress in the hangar by clicking Nickname → Achievements → Holidays → D-Day.[/p]
• [p] You can find the decal in the “Holidays” tab in the customization menu.[/p]

[p][/p][h2]HMS Belfast is Available at a 50% Discount![/h2][p][/p]

[p]When: From June 6th (11:00 GMT) until June 9th (11:00 GMT).
Where: Great Britain > Bluewater fleet > Premium vehicles.[/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][carousel][/carousel][p]HMS Belfast is now a museum ship in London! But in the mid-20th century, she played a part in many battles. HMS Belfast escorted northern convoys to the Soviet Union, participated in the Battle of the North Cape and the sinking of the battleship Scharnhorst, and provided fire support during the Normandy landings on June 6th 1944.[/p][p][/p][h2]D-Day Tournament Series![/h2][p]We’ve lined up a series of air, tank and naval tournaments dedicated to the anniversary of D-Day! Registration for them is already open and will last until June 8th. In these tournaments, you can win a special D-Day decal and the “Ace of Normandy” title. Don’t forget, we have an official Esports Discord server, so don’t forget to join! [/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE TOURNAMENTS WEBSITE[/p][p][/p][p]How to participate in War Thunder Tournaments[/p]

Hello everyone! Thanks for checking in for another round of monthly decals, we hope you liked the selection last month!

Thank you for leaving your suggestions on the forum and in the comments, this month we brought back a few previous decals you requested, and the decal for Italy was suggested by a player too. We look at all of the suggestions that you leave, so if you have some interesting examples be sure to make a post and we’ll take a look!

The following decals will be available from June 6th (11:00 GMT) until July 7th (09:00 GMT).

All tasks can be completed using vehicles that are rank III or higher.

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Monthly markings can be found in a special tab at the bottom of the customization menu, (Monthly Decals) after a month, they’ll be moved to their corresponding category.

You can check the exact terms and track the progress of completing tasks for these decals by going to your Player Profile > Decals > Monthly Decals. From here, click the “Track progress” button on each decal to track from the hangar.



All of the emblems will come with a detailed description. This will generally consist of the history of the marking, its design, which vehicles used it, and where it was often placed on vehicles historically if applicable (some emblems are taken from badges, which weren’t always applied). This way you can more easily recreate the original positioning if you’d like.

We hope you like these historical decal events and enjoy the selection for June, thank you for all of your comments and suggestions, we’ll see you next month!

Meet this mobile SAM vehicle, featuring radar missiles on the back of an army Humvee jeep!

[h2]SL-AMRAAM: An SPAA (SAM) for the USA at Rank VIII[/h2]
At a glance:

• Launcher and radar vehicles on Humvee chassis
  
• Two missile types: IR and ARH
  
• Very high top speed!
  
• Vulnerable to being taken out
  

Vehicle History The SL-AMRAAM (Surface Launched AMRAAM) surface-to-air missile system was developed by American company Raytheon as a land-based version of the AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missile. This short and medium-range mobile system was created to protect troops and important facilities from modern air threats.

The system is based on the AIM-120C missile with an ARH head, launched from compact launchers on a Humvee or truck chassis. To detect targets, the system uses AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radars or other compatible radars integrated into a single NATO air defense network.



[h2]Introducing the SL-AMRAAM![/h2]

The SL-AMRAAM is set to be one of the most interesting new vehicles coming in the Leviathans major update. Not just because it is capable of firing both AIM-120 ARH missiles and new to the game AIM-9X all-aspect missiles, but because it’s a Multi-Vehicle SAM System based on the famous Humvee chassis! Let’s take a further look at what it is all about.



If you’ve been following our news as of late, you would have heard about Multi-Vehicle SAM Systems coming to War Thunder. If you missed it, make sure to get yourself up to speed here! In short, these new systems feature one radar vehicle and one or two launchers that can be placed nearby.

The SL-AMRAAM features a radar vehicle with an AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar on the back of a trailer, as well as two launcher vehicles in the form of missiles mounted onto the back of a Humvee. At your fingertips are two different types of missiles that can be used for both medium and short ranges and altitudes. The first one is the AIM-120C, which features an ARH seeker, excellent for use against targets coming head on. This missile has a launch range of about 25 km from the ground, a long flight time and improved jamming immunity.



The second missile is the AIM-9X, one of the most modern iterations of the famous Sidewinder air-to-air missile family! This missile is going to be a very, very unpleasant surprise for enemy aircraft. It has an all-aspect IR seeker, a high immunity to countermeasures, an amazingly high available overload and a controlled thrust vector. If you’re on the receiving end of this missile, it will not be easy to escape it once it has been fired at you. It can be launched at a distance of about 10 km against a non-maneuvering target.

Since the Humvee features a modular design, it was the perfect choice for this missile system. The SL-AMRAAM’s radar vehicle and two launchers are both based on the Humvee, which are also integral parts of the U.S. and NATO military contingents. This U.S. Armed Forces workhorse is fast, on a good road you can accelerate to more than 110 km/h! The armor is just bulletproof and anti-fragmentation however, providing little to no reliable protection, so make sure to position your vehicles wisely.



That’s this one done! The SL-AMRAAM Multi-Vehicle SAM System is coming to rank VIII in the USA’s ground forces tree as an end of line SPAA (SAM) in the Leviathans major update! And remember, be sure to check out our website for other dev blogs we’ve got coming.

Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.

The T86 is an American amphibious vehicle, coming in as the main reward in the Normandy ‘44 event!

[h2]T86: A Premium Light Tank for the USA at Rank III[/h2]
At a glance:

• M18 Hellcat base
  
• 76 mm gun with APCR, APCBC, AP shells
  
• Vertical stabilizer
  
• Large in size, making it vulnerable
  
• Amphibious!
  

Vehicle History
In February 1944, the U.S. Ordnance Department initiated the development of an amphibious vehicle with a 76 mm gun based on the M18 Hellcat. The contract for the design was awarded to Sparkman & Stephens, and in September 1944, two prototypes were approved to be built — the T86 and T86E1. The main difference was the ability to drive on water. The T86 was driven on water by its tracks, whereas the T86E1 by two propellers. Both vehicles retained some elements of the M18, but received an enlarged displacement hull, folding rudders for maneuvering on water, special wave deflectors and additional periscopes for the crew.

The prototype was tested in late 1944. The T86 achieved a speed of 8.4 km/h on water, while the T86E1 achieved 10 km/h, which was lower than the expected 12 km/h. Despite attempts to further improve the T86E1 by installing a larger propeller, the prototype that moved on water with its tracks was considered more successful. Later on, a third prototype, the T87 was created with a shortened hull and a turret with the 105 mm T88 gun, but with the end of the war in 1945, all work on the program was stopped.




[h2]Introducing the T86![/h2]

The Normandy ‘44 event honors one of the most decisive operations during the Second World War. D-Day happened on June 6th 1944 and for this momentous occasion we have an event that started today, featuring the T86 American experimental amphibious tank which is based on the popular M18 Hellcat, two D-Day related decals and a decoration. Let’s take a closer look at the T86!



Compared to the M18 Hellcat, the T86 has retained the transmission, core chassis and turret with the same gun, all while losing most of its armor. The obvious main difference is that it has been dressed up in a special amphibious pontoon, allowing it to drive while on water! There’s a total of five crew members, with three of them located in the lightly protected turret. The weapon is the same found on the M18 Hellcat, the 76 mm M1 gun with the ammunition for this gun being the same you’d expect to see on the M18 Hellcat — AP, HE, APCBC, APCR and a Smoke shell!

As obvious from how the T86 looks, the turret is placed on a very large hull, which allows the tank to float and drive on water as already mentioned. Since the hull is now larger in all directions, the overall mobility is now lower due to the weight of the pontoon and weaker engine.



While playing the T86, be sure to rely on its mobility which is still good and its very effective gun with a good reload speed and vertical stabilizer, which make this tank a handy contributor to the battle. There’s almost no hope though when you get hit by shells or even machine gun bullets, since the armor is thin and the crew is cramped quite tightly. Although sometimes the separation of the crew in the turret from the driver and radio operator in the hull can play into your hands, especially if you don’t fill the ammunition racks to the brim — but don’t count on it!

Like all vehicles with an open fighting compartment, the T86 is especially vulnerable to aircraft and SPAA looking to take a bite. On the flipside, a .50 cal is mounted on the turret, handy for fighting off low flying aircraft, so long as the crew member using it stays alive.



The T86 is a great little vehicle that could have stormed the beaches of Normandy on D-Day if it had been developed earlier. That’s it for this one, be sure to check out the event details below to learn how you can get yourself this vehicle!

Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.

Click here to find out more details about the Normandy ‘44 event