War Thunder News

[p][/p][p][/p][p]A gun boat with radar, an automatic 57 mm cannon, and a six-barreled 30 mm AK-630 autocannon: meet a hunter and a ruthless anti-aircraft platform![/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]The AK-225 Gunboat was constructed at the Primorsky Shipyard in Leningrad, and entered service on January 7th, 1969. It was a representative of Project 205PE, which was developed as a patrol export version for countries with friendly relations with the USSR. As part of the 41st Missile Boat Brigade of the Black Sea Fleet, this vessel underwent numerous trials, during which the need to strengthen its armament became apparent. On an experimental basis, a new 57 mm cannon was installed on the bow of the AK-225 to increase the firepower.[/p][p][/p][p]After additional trials however, the results showed that the additional 57 mm mount was still insufficient for the tasks the vessel was intended to perform. By the time these trials concluded, the general concept of gunboats in the Soviet fleet had changed, and the naval doctrine had shifted towards other classes of ships. As a result, despite some technical successes, Project 205PE was not approved for mass production. On June 24th, 1991, the AK-225 was removed from the ship register of the navy, and was scrapped two years later in 1993.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the AK-225![/h3][p]The main reward in the Sea Defender naval event is an experimental Soviet patrol boat! The AK-225 features two different automatic cannons and an air target tracking radar, more than capable of proving itself in coastal combat and supporting the larger fleet with its anti-air abilities! This event started today, so let’s get acquainted with this new boat.[/p][p][/p][p]Unlike the other Project 205PE patrol ships, the AK-225 is equipped with an experimental 57 mm AK-175 cannon, which has greatly expanded the range of targets it can engage. This cannon can fire two types of shells – high-explosive fragmentation and armor-piercing. This gun can comfortably deal with small vessels and is even capable of detonating the magazines on destroyers with its AP shells. However, the barrel will overheat if fired for too long, so avoid long bursts of fire.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The auxiliary armament of the AK-225 is the famous six-barreled AK-630 cannon, with an incredible fire rate of 5000 rounds per minute! It can quite literally cut through boats at close range like a saw. This cannon is especially useful for taking down air threats at low altitudes, with aiming aided by the tracking radar. The speed of this vessel is fairly effective too, it can reach a max speed of 36 knots (up to 67 km/h), so the AK-225 will be very suitable for swiftly capturing points.[/p][p][/p][p]In War Thunder, the AK-225 joins the game as a Rank V event vehicle. Its powerful small-caliber armament will make it an excellent choice for coastal combat, though it is still more than capable of supporting larger vessels with its powerful anti-aircraft weaponry. It can comfortably support the team by capturing and defending points, and can even detonate destroyers with its AP belt![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]You can get the AK-225 yourself completely free by taking part in the Sea Defender naval event that started today. More details on this event in the link below![/p][p][/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]Click here to find out more details about the Sea Defender event:[/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p]The Type 03 Chū-SAM will soon become Japan’s new top-tier anti-air system in War Thunder’s next major update![/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]In 2005, the JGSDF began to equip themselves with the new Type 03 medium-range SAM system, also known as the Chū-SAM. The development of this system was carried out by a consortium led by Mitsubishi Electric with the goal of replacing the outdated American I-Hawk systems. The trials of the new system began in 2001, and after passing successfully it was officially adopted into service in 2003. By 2010, the JGSDF had ten batteries equipped with the Chū-SAM family of systems, and it is still in operational service today.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the Type 03 Chū-SAM![/h3][p]A new Multi-Vehicle SAM system is ready to roll into War Thunder! The Type 03 Chū-SAM will be arriving in the next major update at the top of Japan's anti-aircraft line, featuring a powerful radar and vertical launch missiles![/p][p][/p][p]Like most high-end SAM systems, the Type 03 Chū-SAM will function in game as two separate vehicles — a self-propelled launcher (SPL) and a detection and target designation station (DTDS). You’ll have access to two launch vehicles, each with six missile containers (so you’ll have 12 missiles in total). These launchers are equipped with Type 03 missiles; these are large, vertically launched missiles. They are each equipped with an inertial guidance system with radio correction in the initial launch phase, and an active radar seeker to help guide the missile during the final phase of its trajectory.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The DTDS vehicle is responsible for detecting, locking, and tracking targets. Like the launch vehicles, it’s built on the chassis of an 8x8 four-axle truck, with effectively no meaningful armor protection. In its combat position it deploys an AESA system, which provides a high scan frequency and transmits accurate real-time data on aerial targets to the system’s commander.[/p][p][/p][p]The Type 03 Chū-SAM is a highly efficient asset for the team, scanning the air at long ranges and high altitudes. However, its short range combat ability is notably poor, and will have to rely on other friendly SPAA systems to counter enemy aircraft above the battlefield. Like all similar systems the Type 03 Chū-SAM is huge and fragile, meaning that you’ll have to position carefully, and away from predictable areas.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The Type 03 Chū-SAM is ready to take its place as the new top anti-air system for Japan in the next and final War Thunder update of 2025. Along with it are a huge number of additions, improvements and fixes, so keep checking in to see what else is in store![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Please note that the vehicle's characteristics may be changed before being added to the game.[/p]

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

• [p]F-5E (Germany) — a bug that caused the radar to be unable to update the data on targets tracked in TWS mode has been fixed.[/p]

[p] [/p][h3]Naval Vessels[/h3]

• [p]A bug that caused the automatic gunners in Arcade Battles to fire at distances that exceeded the capabilities of the guns has been fixed.[/p]
• [p]A bug that caused the guns in Arcade Battles to stop automatically counting the lead has been fixed. (Report).[/p]

[p] [/p][h3]Interface[/h3]

• [p]A bug that caused the current scan area limits of the radar to display incorrectly when zooming in on aircraft in 3rd person view has been fixed.[/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]

[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]