War Thunder News

[p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The Line of Contact update brings the American F/A-18E Super Hornet carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft, one of the best aircraft in its class in the world, to the game![/p][p][/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]The F/A-18E Super Hornet carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft was developed as a major upgrade of the F/A-18C Hornet. A full-scale development contract was signed in December 1992, and the prototype first flew in November 1995. Despite its external resemblance to its predecessor, it was essentially a new aircraft, with a 90% redesigned airframe, featuring an increased proportion of composite materials and new aerodynamic solutions. The increased dimensions allowed for a third more fuel capacity in the internal tanks and the addition of weapons hardpoints, while maintaining flight performance thanks to more powerful F414-GE-400 engines and an improved control system.[/p][p][/p][p]To save time and money during the initial development phase, nearly 90% of the new aircraft’s avionics were borrowed from the F/A-18C. However, with the start of serial deliveries in November 1999, a program of consistent upgrades began. Block I, which began in 2001, installed new open-architecture onboard computers, an improved electronic warfare suite, modern displays, and the Joint Helmet-Mounted Sighting System (JHMCS). The next and most significant step was the Block II upgrade program, which began in 2005. Its key element was the installation of a new Raytheon AN/APG-79 active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, the first units of which were delivered to the aircraft in 2007. This upgrade, along with modernization of the entire avionics suite and cockpit, dramatically increased the Super Hornet’s combat capabilities, turning it into one of the most technologically advanced combat aircraft in the modern era.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the F/A-18E Super Hornet![/h3][p]Today we’re taking a look at one of the main stars of the Line of Contact major update! Meet the magnificent F/A-18E Super Hornet, the US Navy’s most modern and advanced carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft. Let’s take a look at this jet aircraft, which is sure to sting enemy opponents![/p][p][/p]

[p]Developer Note: We would like to draw attention to the fact that the F/A-18E Super Hornet and other jets for USA, USSR, China and Sweden that are coming in Line of Contact means there are four vehicles at rank VIII vertically for these nations, which is something we said we would not do. This will only be temporary as we would like to confirm that in early 2026 we’ll be introducing rank IX for aircraft, which aims to solve this problem by moving some rank VIII aircraft to rank IX along with some economic changes. However, until then, you can still use aircraft at rank VII to effectively research the new top-tier jets released in the Line of Contact major update. Stay tuned for more news coming in the next few months![/p]

[p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Despite having a one-letter name difference from its predecessor, the F/A-18C, the new Super Hornet is in many ways a completely new aircraft. Let’s take a look at the key differences and characteristics. First off, the Super Hornet has a new AN/APG-79 active phased array radar, providing you with real-time target information. The wing area has been increased, and the number of weapon hardpoints has increased to 11. When loaded for beyond-visual-range combat, the Super Hornet can now carry up to 12 AIM-120B or C-5 ARH missiles, plus an external fuel tank under the fuselage and a pair of AIM-9L or M Sidewinders on the wingtips![/p][p][/p][p]The F/A-18E Super Hornet retains (and improves!) the exceptional anti-ground capabilities of its predecessor. The aircraft’s arsenal now includes a new ATFLIR targeting pod with a thermal imager, and the variety of ground-attack weapons remains the same, but the payload has increased. In addition to the 20 mm cannon and conventional bombs and rockets, Super Hornet players will have the choice of a vast arsenal of guided weapons, from the APKWS II air-to-ground missiles, advanced AGM-65E and F Mavericks, Paveway II, Paveway III and JDAM guided bombs, as well as long-range JDAM-ER and LJDAM laser-guided bombs, which in addition to inertial guidance with GPS corrections, and Walleye II bombs with a television seeker. Basically, there’s something for everyone![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]In addition to weapons, you’ll also be able to utilize enhanced visibility capabilities, active and passive defense, including a convenient helmet-mounted display and target cueing system for air combat, an advanced informative RWR, and a large supply of flare/chaff.[/p][p][/p][p]Along with the increased payload and number of weapon hardpoints, and despite the larger wing and extensive use of lightweight composite materials, there was a need for increased thrust on the aircraft. The Super Hornet was given a pair of new F414-GE-400 engines with an afterburning power of approximately 9,470 kgf, making the aircraft’s speed and maneuverability performance comparable to earlier models in the series. While the Hornet family can’t match the best interceptors in speed, its speed and most importantly, maneuverability are more than sufficient for air combat and anti-missile maneuvers![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The epic Super Hornet, surrounded by a vast arsenal of available weapons, is waiting for you in the hangars of the upcoming Line of Contact major update. We’re finalizing preparations for the release and look forward to seeing you playing it![/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]The Sultan of Oman celebrates Armed Forces Day on December 11th. Oman is a long-standing ally of the United Kingdom and the United States, having hosted coalition troops in 1991 and 2001. The Omani Armed Forces have over 42,000 soldiers and are armed with modern equipment, including the Challenger 2 main battle tank, Piranha armored fighting vehicle, and Centauro tank destroyer.[/p][p] [/p][h2]The Centauro RGO is available for purchase with a 30% discount for 6,734 Golden Eagles![/h2][p] [/p]

[p]When: From December 11th (11:00 GMT) until December 15th (11:00 GMT).[/p][p]Where: Italy > Army > Premium vehicles.[/p]

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• [p]This vehicle will stay available to purchase after this promotion ends.[/p]

[p][/p][p]About this light tank[/p]

• [p]The Centauro RGO (rank VII) is an export variant of the Centauro B1 MGS, produced specifically for the Omani Armed Forces. Its increased weight is offset by a more powerful engine, allowing you to quickly take advantage of map positions. Its 120 mm cannon reloads quickly and fires excellent APFSDS rounds. A thermal imager helps you locate targets, and an LWS will let you know when an enemy is lasing you.[/p]

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[p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Today we’ll be taking a look at the NASAMS surface-to-air missile system, a joint development between Norway and the United States, coming to Sweden and the USA in the Line of Contact major update![/p][p] [/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]Development of the NASAMS air defense missile system began in the 1980s by Norwegian company Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace in collaboration with American company Raytheon Missiles & Defense. The project’s primary goal was to replace the aging Improved Hawk systems in the Norwegian Armed Forces.[/p][p]The key principle in the development of NASAMS was to standardize and the use of existing, proven components to reduce costs and accelerate development. The AIM-120 AMRAAM air-to-air missile with an active radar homing head was used as the primary weapon. A towed six-container launcher was developed for its ground launch. The detection and guidance system was a modernized AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel three-dimensional radar.[/p][p]Testing of the system with actual missile launches was successfully completed in June 1993. By late 1994 and early 1995, the system had achieved initial operational capability and began entering service with the Norwegian Air Force, but its full operational capability was not completed until 1998. In 2019, the modernized NASAMS 3 was developed, capable of using AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II IR-guided missiles and extended-range AMRAAM-ER missiles.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the NASAMS 3![/h3][p]The renowned NASAMS medium-range air defense system is coming to War Thunder as a Multi-Vehicle SAM System for two nations, the USA and Sweden. Let’s get acquainted with this new vehicle, coming in the Line of Contact major update! [/p][p][/p][p]Like all Multi-Vehicle SAM systems, the NASAMS consists of three vehicles: a Target Acquisition And Designation System (TADS) and two self-propelled launchers (SPLS). The launcher system features six containers mounted on a three-axle truck chassis and can fire three types of missiles: the AIM-120 with an active radar homing head, the AMRAAM-ER with extended range, and the all-aspect AIM 9-X Sidewinder Block II with an infrared seeker and excellent maneuverability. This means you’ll be able to provide cover for the team at both medium and short ranges and at high altitudes as well![/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]The Target Acquisition And Designation System (TADS), which is slightly unusual for Multi-Vehicle SAM systems, has a different chassis. It’s built on a military jeep platform, and even with quite a sizable Sentinel radar, it’s still relatively compact. The vehicle is easier to conceal in low terrain or foliage, which is crucial for the survivability of the entire system.[/p][p][/p][p]The NASAMS is coming to two nations, the USA and Sweden, where it will be a top-tier rank VIII air defense system. Two missile types allow for complete airspace control without any blind spots, while the system’s excellent mobility allows for deployment in unexpected locations and quick repositioning if needed. Look out for this vehicle coming in the Line of Contact major update, and we’ll catch you in the next blog![/p][p][/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][/p][p]On December 10th, 1938 the Hudson bomber, developed by Lockheed, made its maiden flight. It demonstrated its versatility in service with Great Britain, Canada, and the United States, patrolling maritime borders, transporting cargo, participating in reconnaissance operations, and fought enemies with bombs and torpedoes. Almost 3,000 examples of this aircraft were produced.[/p][p] [/p][h2]The Hudson Mk V is temporarily available for purchase for 700 Golden Eagles![/h2][p][/p]

[p]When: From December 10th (11:00 GMT) until December 15th (11:00 GMT).[/p][p]Where: Great Britain > Aviation > Premium vehicles.[/p]

[p] [/p][p]About this aircraft[/p]

• [p]The Hudson Mk V can carry four 250 lb and six 100 lb bombs, plus eight AP Mk I rockets with up to 100 mm armor penetration. This aircraft is not just dropping bombs, it’s also fairly fast with effective frontal and defensive armament, totaling five 7.7 mm machine guns. Surprise your opponents both on the ground and in the air with this rare bird![/p]

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[p][/p][p][/p][p]Today, we’ll be introducing you to the new generation of Eurofighter aircraft to crown the German, British and Italian aircraft trees. Meet the Typhoon AESA series![/p][p] [/p][p] [/p][h3]Vehicle History[/h3][p]Early on in the 1990s, before the Eurofighter had even taken to the skies, collaborative efforts between European nations were already developing what we would now know as an Active Electronic radar or solid state radar. While the ECR-90 (CAPTOR-M in production) would be the radar to see the Eurofighter into service with the consortium nations, work in the background to develop its replacement was ongoing. Initially the CAESAR (Captor Active Electronically Scanned Array Radar) radar, produced by the Euroradar consortium of nations (Germany, Great Britain, Spain and Italy), would serve as the foundation for CAPTOR-E, the next generation of radar sets for the Eurofighter. Through its testing and development, CAESAR would mature and be developed into the next generation of AESA radars for the Eurofighter: the ECRS series.[/p][p] [/p][p]The European Common Radar System (ECRS) was developed by Leonardo (ECRS Mk 0 & Mk 2) and Hensoldt/Indra (ECRS Mk 1), with integration being carried out by BAE Systems and Airbus Germany on aircraft platforms. Operationally, Qatar and Kuwait are already using the ECRS Mk 0 on their Eurofighters. Now the main Eurofighter operator nations are beginning to integrate their chosen versions of the ECRS onto production aircraft, with examples from Spain and Britain having already flown on production examples of the Eurofighter. Germany is also carrying out ongoing integration of the ECRS Mk 1 and Italy has agreed the acquisition of the ECRS Mk 2 for its Eurofighters after developing that version with the UK. It is expected all four nations will have operational service examples in the next few years and into the 2030s.  [/p][p][/p][p][/p][h3]Introducing the AESA Eurofighters![/h3][p]The Eurofighter series doesn’t need much of an introduction to most pilots, but today, we promise something CAPTORvating indeed! The new AESA CAPTOR-E radar series, or European Common Radar System (ECRS) as it is also known, is a next generation radar system that provides some of the best coverage and performance in game to date. Coming in the Line of Contact major update, Germany, Great Britain and Italy will each receive an example of this new development for a very potent top combat aircraft. Let’s take a closer look at what you can expect to find on the Eurofighter AESAs when they come in the Line of Contact major update![/p][p] [/p][p]In game, the examples of the Eurofighter Typhoon you can already find excel at BVR combat. Their excellent flight performance and long range AIM-120Cs, coupled with their high countermeasure count makes for an exceptional standoff platform for long range aerial engagements. The AESA equipped Eurofighters take this to the next level. The ECRS offers a significant upgrade in both field of view and scan rates. Being an electronically scanned radar, the refresh rate of targets is lightning fast compared to most mechanical scan radars, providing significantly better tracking updates to directional changes.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]Unlike some other “fixed plate” AESA radars, the ECRS can also make use of its repositioner to achieve an average of 50% larger scan area volume when looking at existing mechanical sets. On the German Eurofighter equipped with the ECRS Mk 1, this provides a field of view of ±90°, while the Mk.2 on British and Italian aircraft extends this to ±100°. As a result, you’ll benefit from much better airspace awareness and the ability to track targets that would normally fall outside of the gimbal zone![/p][p] [/p][p]The German EF-2000 AESA will also come with a PIRATE FLIR/IRST, allowing for IR locking for the first time on this example like the British and Italian versions have. A much welcomed addition no doubt! The upgrades however don’t stop there. All Eurofighters in game will feature a double AMRAAM pylon on stations 2 and 12. Meaning the maximum AIM-120 capacity is now 8 on these aircraft. An excellent loadout to put that new radar to good use with.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p] [/p][p]While this aircraft’s improvements are focused on the air side of things, you can still expect to find the familiar complement of guided air-to-ground ordnance in the form of Brimstones, Paveway, LJDAM and more for an all round excellent multi-role platform. The Eurofighters also feature an impressive countermeasure and defensive suite, providing all-around coverage, excellent situational awareness, and a robust package of defenses against incoming threats.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p] [/p][p]The new Eurofighter AESAs will be joining the game in the Line of Contact major update, with Germany, Great Britain and Italy all welcoming an example to their respective trees. We hope you enjoy them! Until next time, stay tuned for more![/p][p] [/p][p]Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.[/p]