War Thunder News

[p][/p][p]Hey everyone! February marks one full year of historical decals returning! As of this event we’ve added 60 new decals, along with returning 60 decals from previous events, so newer players have a chance to collect them as well. Have you had any favorite decals over the past year? Inscription-based decals seem to be the most popular overall, so we’ll try and include some more interesting ones this year too.[/p][p][/p][p]We hope you like the selection! The relatively rare Italian tortoise emblem was fun to make this time around, as was the skunk from the famous “Spray and Pray” Squadron. We’re happy to return the fairly unique "Kohlenklau" emblem for Germany as well. We’ve popped it on a Marder III here for the screenshot, but historically it was painted on a Marder II. As always, keep leaving your suggestions on the forum for future decals, and we hope you enjoy![/p][p][/p]

[p]The following decals will be available from February 12th (11:00 GMT) until March 12th (09:00 GMT)[/p][p]All tasks can be completed using vehicles that are rank III or higher.[/p]

[p][/p][hr][/hr][hr][/hr][h3][/h3][h3]V Gruppo, 132° Reggimento Artiglieria Emblem[/h3][p]The emblem of V Gruppo, 132° Reggimento Artiglieria (5th Group, 132nd Artillery Regiment) Royal Italian Army. The 5th Group took part in the battles of El Alamein, where, despite their limited numbers, they proved very defensively capable. In the early stages of 1942, the 5th Group used this cannon-bearing tortoise as their emblem, effectively encapsulating their slow but well-armed and armored nature, along with the desert environment they operated in. It was painted low on the sides of the casemate on their Semovente da 75/18 SPGs, before being replaced with the standard battery markings.[/p][p] [/p][h3]3rd Bomb Squadron Emblem, CACW[/h3][p]The emblem of the 3rd Bomb Squadron, 1st Bomb Group, Chinese-American Composite Wing (Provisional). The 3rd Squadron was the final bomb squadron to be formed during World War 2, in February 1944. It was jointly commanded by Major Lee Hsueh-yen and Colonel John A. Hilger, and boasted a formidable combat record for its relatively short operational period. The emblem was designed by John Hinrichs Jr, the supply officer of the squadron. It prominently depicts a skunk in front of the rising sun, along with a peg on its nose to keep it safe from its own defense mechanism. It was derived from the motto of the squadron, “Spray and Pray,” which reflected their combat duties of strafing Japanese positions with their heavily armed B-25 aircraft. They operated several Mitchell variants, with the emblem often painted to the sides of the nose towards the front.[/p][p][/p][hr][/hr][hr][/hr][p]
[/p][h3]Trompe La Mort Inscription[/h3][p]Trompe La Mort Inscription, French Army. The inscription is an Old-French saying, directly translated as “To Cheat Death,” but idiomatically “Daredevil” would be more appropriate as a contemporary interpretation. A catalyst for its popularity is the 1835 novel Le Père Goriot by Honoré de Balzac, where the phrase appears as a nickname for one of the characters. It has something of a lineage in regards to military vehicles as well, first appearing on a Schneider CA1 AFV in the First World War. As direct inspiration, the inscription has also appeared on several more modern tanks in the French Army. This stenciled example was painted on the turret sides of a Leclerc MBT towards the rear.[/p][p][/p][h3]"Some Chicken" Marking[/h3][p]“Some Chicken” marking, No. 43 Squadron, RAAF. The squadron was formed in Queensland, Australia on May 1st 1943. It exclusively operated the PBY-5 Catalina, and primarily took part in reconnaissance, mine laying, and anti-shipping duties. The inscription comes from a quote from Winston Churchill; after France fell in 1940, a French general remarked, "In three weeks England will have her neck wrung like a chicken." In December 1941, Churchill retorted with “some chicken,” in relation to the Commonwealth’s continued defiance against the Axis powers in an address to the Canadian parliament. It was painted under the front window on Catalina A24-65 OX-H. The chick may have also had a clockwork key on the back of its head, though photo evidence of this element is interpretive.[/p][p][/p][h3]107 Squadron (OTU) Emblem[/h3][p]The emblem of 107 Squadron’s Operational Training Unit, IAF. 107 Squadron was formed in February 1953 at the Ramat David airbase, as a response to the rapid expansion of the IAF, which necessitated swift and effective training for new pilots. The squadron was equipped with at least 39 Mk IX Spitfires, and successfully trained 21 fighter pilots between 1953 and 1954. The squadron operated in this form until 1956 when the Spitfires were retired, but would later reform as a Meteor and Ouragan squadron several years later. The emblem of the OTU depicts a tiger in silhouette leaping over the IAF insignia, and was often painted behind and below the engine exhaust on several of the squadron’s Spitfires.

[/p][hr][/hr][hr][/hr][p][/p][h3]"Kohlenklau" Emblem, Pzjr.Abt. 561[/h3][p]An emblem of Panzerjäger-Abteilung 561 (561st Tank Destroyer Battalion), Wehrmacht. This marking depicts the “Kohlenklau” (Coal Thief), a German propaganda character used to encourage citizens to conserve energy and resources during the war. The campaign was launched in late 1942 and resulted in many posters and publications; the character even featured in a 1944 animation as well as a board game. The emblem was a personal marking of Marder II commander Helmut Kohlke, likely chosen due to the similarity between the name of the character and his surname. The face of the Kohlenklau was painted on both sides of his Marder, on the upper casemate towards the front. [/p][p][/p][h3]301st Tactical Fighter Squadron Emblem (7th Air Wing)[/h3][p]The tail marking of the 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron, JASDF. The squadron was formed provisionally on August 1st 1972, and was formally activated as the 301st on October 16th 1973 as part of the 7th Air Wing. Having a frog as the tail marking fell into place quite naturally. It was based on one of the many frog species that inhabit the surrounding area of the Hyakuri Airbase, and linguistically shares a fitting sentiment for pilots. The Japanese word for frog (蛙) is phonetically the same as the phrase “to return” (帰る) spoken as ka-eh-ru, which turned frogs into symbols of good luck and safe return. The seven stars on the scarf represent the 7th Air Wing, though as the squadron has been attached to several wings, there are other variants with fewer stars. It was painted on the tail of the F-4EJ Phantoms of the squadron, under the diagonal formation light strip.

[/p][hr][/hr][hr][/hr][p][/p][h3]Personal Marking of Grigori Kogrushev, 168 IAP[/h3][p]The personal marking of Grigori Aleksandrovich Kogrushev, 168 IAP (168th Fighter Aviation Regiment), Soviet Air Force. Grigori boasted a distinguished career in the air force, commanding the 11th, 172nd, and 168th regiments during the Second World War. Aside from flying the I-16 during the Spanish Civil War, he primarily piloted Yak fighters, and shot down a total of six aircraft, with two being shared. On June 13th, 1944, he transitioned to the Yak-9B fighter-bomber, which he would fly until the end of the war. His personal ace of hearts marking was painted under the engine exhausts towards the front on his Yak-9B, serial number 12153100.[/p][p][/p][h3]DESRON 9 Emblem[/h3][p]The emblem of Destroyer Squadron 9, United States Navy. The squadron was first formed in 1920 with early four-piper destroyers, and operated until 1930 when it was decommissioned temporarily. It was later reactivated in 1937, equipped with Porter and Somers class destroyers, including USS Davis, Moffett and Somers, and saw action in both the Atlantic and Pacific. The squadron took part in many operations after the Second World War as well, including the Korean War and Desert Storm, and currently operates the Arleigh Burke-class. The badge of the squadron prominently portrays naval military strength and honor, with the famous phrase “En garde” conveying the sentiment “get ready to fight!”.[/p][p] [/p][h3]BRIG 5 Emblem[/h3][p]The Emblem of 5th Brigade, Norwegian Army. The 5th Brigade was a Type 78 infantry brigade attached to the Øst-Oppland Defence District, which also used the same emblem but with a red background. The badge was created in the early 1980s by Major General Thorbjørn Bergersen, and depicts a Birkebeiner warrior. They are most well known for an event in 1206, where two Birkebeiners skied the infant Prince Haakon to safety through a blizzard during the Norwegian civil war, who would go on to become the king of Norway. These exploits cemented the warriors in culture and history, and make for a desirable subject for a military badge. There is limited information to suggest that the marking was painted on the brigade's M113 and M109 vehicles; it was more commonly seen as a shoulder patch.[/p][hr][/hr][p]
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.[/p][p][/p][p]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.[/p][p][/p][carousel][/carousel][p][/p][p]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.[/p][p][/p][p]Thanks for a year of support decal enjoyers! We’ll keep going strong into 2026 and will continue to include interesting markings for you to collect, from the common to the obscure. Enjoy the selection and we’ll see in a month for more.[/p]

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Ancient Japanese chronicles date the accession of the first Emperor Jimmu to the first day of the first month of 660 BCE. During the transition to the Gregorian calendar in the Meiji era, this date was aligned with February 11th and made into a holiday. Japan widely celebrated the 2,600th anniversary of the founding of the empire in 1940. After World War II, the celebrations were discontinued, but in the mid-1960s they were resumed with refined wording, eliminating any mention of the empire. It is a patriotic holiday, marked by the flying of flags and numerous local festivals.

[/p][p]To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store!

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[p]When: From February 11th (07:00 GMT) until February 18th (07:00 GMT).[/p]

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[/p][p]The IJN Kiyoshimo is temporarily available for 4880 Golden Eagles and the A6M5 Ko and J2M4 Kai are temporarily available for 3850 Golden Eagles each!

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[p]When: From February 11th (07:00 GMT) until February 18th (07:00 GMT).[/p][p]Where: Japan > Bluewater fleet / Aviation > Premium vehicles.[/p]

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[/p][h3]About these vehicles[/h3][p][/p][p][/p]

• [p]The IJN Kiyoshimo (rank III) was a Yugumo-class destroyer that fought in the Pacific theater of operations in 1944. Its key features were speed, impressive anti-aircraft defense, and devastating 610 mm torpedoes. It is an excellent support ship![/p]

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• [p]The A6M5 Ko (rank IV) is an early modification of the A6M5 carrier-based fighter, with an additional 50 rounds of ammo. At its rank, almost nothing can match its maneuverability! Two 20 mm cannons and two 7.7 mm machine guns will punish any enemy that gets too close, and it can even mount bombs for some light CAS duties.[/p]

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[p]When: From February 11th (07:00 GMT) until February 18th (07:00 GMT).[/p][p] [/p][p]Task: Earn 3,000 mission points in battles where you used Japan vehicles at rank III or higher to receive the “Japan’s National Foundation Day” trophy! [/p]

[p][/p][p]Inside this trophy, you’ll receive one of four decals that were previously available on this day:
[/p][p][/p][p]If you already have all four decals, you’ll receive a trophy and get one of the following when opening it:[/p]

• [p]20-50% Research Point booster for 3-10 battles[/p]
• [p]20-50% Silver Lion booster for 3-10 battles[/p]
• [p]3-5 universal backups[/p]
• [p]1 day of Premium account[/p]

[p] [/p][p]Please note: After finishing the task, you need to collect the reward manually.[/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 → Japan’s National Foundation Day.[/p]

[p][/p][p]This February, Steam is hosting a festival dedicated to PvP games, and of course War Thunder is participating! This is your chance to pick up packs at a great discount![/p][p][/p]

[p]When: From February 9th (18:00 GMT) until February 16th (18:00 GMT), the following packs are available at a 50% discount:[/p]

[p][/p]

• [p]CF-188 Hornet Pack[/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]
• [p]MiG-23ML Pack[/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]
• [p]JH-7A Prototype Pack[/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]
• [p]USS Maryland Pack[/p][p][dynamiclink][/dynamiclink][/p]

[p][/p][p]Please note! After this discount ends, these packs will be removed from being able to be purchased on Steam.[/p]

Thank you to everyone who shared their screenshots last week! This week’s theme highlights vehicles that have been customized for the battlefield. Pick out a unique camouflage, distinctive decals, or a full custom skin, and capture a screenshot showing how your vehicle has been tailored for combat. The three most popular and three selected by us will get 300 GE. See the winners down below!

[h2]Let’s begin the 210th edition of our competition![/h2]

Create a stunning screenshot and submit it on the War Thunder Steam Community Hub with the tag #WTscreen210. You have time until the 13th of February to submit your screenshot.

After that date, 6 winners will be selected (3 of which will be the highest rated by the community and 3 selected by our judges), each of which receive a reward of 300GE.



[h3]Terms:[/h3]

Your screenshot must include a custom camouflage, decals, or decorations.
You must add the #WTscreen210 tag (title cannot have any other text in it).
Artists may only win by popular vote once per four screenshot competitions.
• Screenshots need to be compliant with the War Thunder rules.
  
• You need to be the author of the screenshot.
  
• Screenshot needs to be new. You cannot use those which have previously been published or used in other competitions.
  
• We will only accept raw screenshots from the game. You cannot use any editing software nor any other visual enhancements (like Nvidia Ansel filters).
  
• You can use filters and settings built into War Thunder.
  
• You can use the replay functionality built into War Thunder.
  
• Rewards will be delivered to the author's account within 14 working days.
  

[h2]And now, time for the winners of the competition’s 209th edition – Streets of Conflict![/h2]

[h3]Winners selected via community votes:[/h3]
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3657218914
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3658188084
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3657510079

[h3]Winners selected by our judges:[/h3]
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3658742064
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3658055543
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3657324218

Each winner will get 300GE! Congratulations and see you next week!

[p][/p][p][/p][p]As the dust settles on an unforgettable 2025 season, we stand on the threshold of a brand new year for War Thunder Esports, with 2026 promising to be bigger, bolder, and more competitive than ever.[/p][p] [/p][p]This year, War Thunder Esports continues its evolution with refined formats, higher stakes, and expanded opportunities for players across the globe. From rising talents to seasoned veterans, 2026 is designed to reward skill, dedication, and strategic mastery at every level of play.[/p][p] [/p][p]Throughout the year, the competitive calendar will once again be shaped by a series of major events, each pushing teams to their limits and offering unforgettable moments for players and spectators alike. New challenges await, familiar rivalries return, and the path to glory has never been clearer or more demanding.[/p][p] [/p][p]In this announcement, we’ll take you through what’s new for 2026 and what to expect from the upcoming competitive season.[/p][p] [/p][p]New year. New battles. New champions.[/p][p]Welcome to the 2026 WTCS Season![/p][p] [/p][h2]War Thunder Esports Calendar 2026: An Overview[/h2][p][/p][p]The 2026 War Thunder Esports season is structured around a full-year competitive calendar, designed to provide consistent high-level competition while maintaining a clear progression from early-season majors to decisive grand finals.[/p][p] [/p][p]The year is divided into four quarters, each playing a distinct role in the competitive ecosystem, with parallel paths for professional and challenger-level teams.[/p][p] [/p][h2]Seasonal Structure[/h2][p][/p][p]Important Notice: Teams that qualify for and earn points in the Pro League are strictly prohibited from participating in the Challenger League. Likewise, teams that qualify for and earn points in the Challenger League are not allowed to participate in the Pro League. Playing on secondary accounts to participate in both leagues is also strictly prohibited.[/p][p][/p][p]Any player or team that fails to comply with this regulation will be fully disqualified for the entire season.[/p][p][/p][p]The competitive season revolves around two main circuits.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][p]WTCS Pro League, featuring the highest-ranked teams. Teams participating in the Pro League will have the opportunity to compete for cash prizes at each Major event. [/p][p] [/p]

• [p]Pro League Major I: 4v4 Mixed Battle RB (with markers) / Bo5 / 5 000 Euros[/p]
• [p]Pro League Major II: 4v4 Air Battle RB / Bo7 / 5 000 Euros[/p]
• [p]Pro League Major III: 4v4 Tank Battle RB (with markers) / Bo5 / 5 000 Euros[/p]
• [p]Pro League Grand Final: 4v4 All mode 15 000 Euros[/p]

[p] [/p][p][/p][p]WTCS Challenger League, offering emerging teams a pathway to the top level. Both leagues follow a similar structure but different lineups, ensuring competitive balance and clear opportunities for progression.[/p][p] [/p]

• [p]Challenger League Major I: 4v4 Mixed Battle RB (with markers) / Bo5[/p]
• [p]Challenger League Major II: 4v4 Air Battle RB / Bo7[/p]
• [p]Challenger League Major III: 4v4 Tank Battle RB (with markers) / Bo5[/p]
• [p]Challenger League Grand Final: 4v4 All mode[/p]

[p] [/p][p]You’ll notice differences in the lineups and formats offered between each league, with the Pro League primarily focused on top-tier vehicles, while the Challenger League is designed around lower-tier vehicles.[/p][p][/p][p]Training sessions will be made available every week, from Wednesday to Sunday, on our tournament platform.[/p][p][/p][h2]Prizes and Rewards[/h2][p]The prizes will be announced ahead of each Major, as will the partners who will be supporting both of the leagues throughout the 2026 season![/p][p][/p][p]This is one of the most important differences between the two leagues.[/p][p][/p][p]This year, the Professional League will feature a total cash prize pool of €30,000. The top eight Grand Final teams will also have the opportunity to co-create Team Packs.[/p][p]For rookie teams looking to compete in the Challenger League, more than 500,000 Golden Eagles will be awarded throughout the year, along with opportunities to win packs of your choice and rare vehicle coupons.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]Roster Construction[/h2][p]This year, to participate in either league, teams must have a minimum roster of 4 players and a maximum roster of 7 players for each Major event.[/p][p][/p][p]One player change per roster, per Major, is allowed.[/p][p] The roster for the Grand Finals will be limited to a maximum of 8 players.[/p][p] [/p][h2]Broadcast and Promotion[/h2][p]This year, you’ll be able to follow the entire WTCS season on our multilingual Twitch channels, including English, Russian, French, Polish, and German, as well as an English broadcast on our YouTube channel.[/p][p]In addition, all event replays will be available on our YouTube channel, along with highlight compilations featuring the best moments.[/p][p]You’ll also be able to follow all news and updates related to both leagues on our dedicated social media channels, including X, Instagram, and Discord.[/p][p][/p][p][/p][h2]Most Valuable Player Criteria[/h2][p]The MVP title is awarded based on several key criteria that reflect a player’s overall impact on the tournament. These criteria go beyond statistics, focusing on influence, decision-making, and consistency at the highest level of competition.[/p][p][/p][p]Impactful actions measure how often a player directly affects the outcome of a match through clutch plays or decisive moments. Presence on the battlefield highlights their ability to be in the right place at the right time, leading engagements and executing key maneuvers. Adaptability reflects how well the player adjusts to the evolving flow of the game, whether by changing roles or strategies. Consistency rewards stable, high-level performances throughout the tournament, while memorable actions recognize exceptional plays that leave a lasting impression on viewers.[/p][p][/p][p]This year, we’ve decided to place even greater emphasis on recognizing the best players of the 2026 season.[/p][p][/p][p]The MVP and the Top 3 players of the season will be rewarded as follows:[/p]

• [p]€1500 for 1st place + WTCS Season 2026 MVP title[/p]
• [p]€650 for 2nd place[/p]
• [p]€350 for 3rd place[/p]

[p][/p][p]The winners will be selected based on the results of the whole season and at the end of the Pro League Grand Finals.[/p][p] [/p][h2]Carrying the legacy into 2026[/h2][p]With the experience gained in 2025, WTCS enters 2026 with a refined structure and clearer competitive objectives. Formats are now well established, expectations are defined, and teams return with a better understanding of what is required to compete at the highest level.[/p][p][/p][p]The foundations have been set.[/p][p]2026 builds on them.[/p][p][/p][p]The War Thunder Esports team wishes everyone an insane WTCS 2026 season. Let the battles begin — may the best team win!
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