War Thunder News

Pre-orders for three store packs have started today! Meet the AV-8S Harrier for Japan, the Su-22M4 for Germany and the formidable JA37DI Viggen for Sweden.

[h2]AV-8S Harrier — Japan, Rank VI[/h2]

To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store!
59.99
Pre-order - AV-8S Matador Pack

• This pack includes: AV-8S Matador (Rank 6, Japan)
  
• 2000 Golden Eagles
  
• Premium account for 15 days
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique title "Matador"
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique decal “Naga”
  

The AV-8S represents the Spanish, and later Thai, export variant of the AV-8A Harrier, which is already well familiar to the game. As such, the aircraft inherits much of its flight characteristics from the AV-8A, including the Harrier’s signature VTOL ability, allowing it to act both as a fixed wing aircraft, but also as a helicopter, thanks to its hover capabilities. As with other Harriers, this feature in addition to an extensive suite of suspended weapons makes it particularly well suited for Ground Battles. Furthermore, being able to carry the AIM-9P Sidewinder missile as well as countermeasures ensures that the AV-8S can hold its own in a dogfight. Lastly, with the AV-8S being a Premium aircraft, you can use its additional bonuses to speed up progression towards some of the top Japanese aircraft!




[h2]Su-22M4 — Germany, Rank VII[/h2]

Pre-order - Su-22M4 WTD 61 Pack
To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store!
69.99

• This pack includes:
  
• Su-22M4 WTD 61 (Rank 7, Germany)
  
• 2500 Golden Eagles
  
• Premium account for 20 days
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique title "Fitter"
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique "Ingolstadt coat of arms" decal
  
• Pre-order bonus: JBG 77 Anniversary Camouflage (click image to expand)
  

The Su-22M4 comes to the game as the pinnacle of the Su-17/22 family in German service. This advanced variant is able to employ cutting-edge guided ordnance, including TV-guided weapons, as well as laser-guided munitions. Furthermore, the Su-22M4 proves formidable in air-to-air combat, equipped with over 250 countermeasures and the potent all-aspect R-60MK missiles. Its upgraded engine and avionics ensure rapid delivery of these deadly weapons to enemy targets. In essence, the Su-22M4 embodies a true multirole masterpiece for German high-tier air operations. It excels in both air-to-air and air-to-ground engagements, making it a formidable force on the battlefield.




[h2]JA37DI — Sweden, Rank VIII[/h2]

Pre-order - Saab JA37DI Viggen F21 Pack
To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store!
79.99
This pack includes:

• Saab JA 37DI Viggen F21 (Rank 8, Sweden)
  
• 3000 Golden Eagles
  
• Premium accoount for 30 days
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique title "Lightning strike"
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique "Mjölnir" decal
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique four-color camouflage (click image to expand)
  

The JA37DI represents a further modification of the JA37D, which itself became available during the mid 1990s. Building upon the upgrades of the standard D variant of the Viggen, the DI modification focused on streamlining the aircraft’s systems and avionics for international operations. Most notably however, the JA37DI brings with it the ability to mount the Rb99 missile. Being the Swedish designation for the American AIM-120, its addition to the Viggen greatly increases the aircraft’s effectiveness in aerial combat, giving it the ability to hunt down targets which are beyond visual range. In addition to this, the Viggen retains its signature superb flight characteristics culminating in the aircraft’s excellent maneuverability thanks to its sleek delta wing design!

The ICV(P) is a state-of-the-art experimental infantry combat vehicle belonging to a family of new tactical wheeled vehicles developed by Mitsubishi for the JSDF.

[h2]Infantry Combat Vehicle ICV(P): A Light Tank for Japan at Rank VII[/h2]
At a glance:

• Excellent mobility!
  
• Unmanned turret.
  
• Light protection.
  
• Rapid-firing 30mm cannon.
  

Vehicle History
[expand]
In 2018, the Japanese Ministry of Defence initiated a program for the development of a common family of light vehicles which would replace some of the older vehicles in service since the late 1980s. Six vehicle variants were planned in total, one of which would be the Infantry Fighting Vehicle (ICV) variant. Mitsubishi, tasked with developing the vehicle, chose the chassis of the Type 16 MCV as a basis on which the next vehicle family would be developed. In 2020, the first prototype of the ICV was constructed. By this time however, the Patria AMV had won the tender for a promising new wheeled APC for the JSDF. As a result, the number of vehicles from the family which will later on be launched into production is expected to be reduced to just a few variants, including the ICV. In late September 2022, the ICV(P) was still undergoing testing.
[/expand]

[h2]Meet the ICV(P)![/h2]

The ICV(P) will be a new light combat vehicle joining the top ranks of the Japanese ground forces tree, coming to the game as one of the highlights of the Firebirds major update. Fans of the Type 87 and Type 89 may especially look forward to the arrival of the ICV(P) as it combines the best aspects of both vehicles in a new, highly mobile and just as deadly platform. Let’s take a closer look!



Although being a completely new vehicle, Japanese engineers used the proven platform of the Type 16 MCV as the basis for the ICV(P). As a result, the ICV(P) not only inherits some of the Type 16’s visual appearance, but also much of its performance specifications when it comes to mobility. Namely, being equipped with the same 570 HP diesel engine found on the Type 16 MCV ends up in the ICV(P) possessing excellent cross-country mobility while also being able to reach a top speed over 100 km/h. However, as with most wheeled vehicles, the ICV(P) will be pushed to its limits when faced with extremely harsh terrain types, such as deep mud or snow. So be careful on the battlefield and avoid these surfaces if possible so as to not impede the ICV(P)’s greatest advantage.

In terms of firepower, the ICV(P) truly strikes a balance between the Type 87 RCV and Type 89 which precede it. Being fitted with a 30 mm Bushmaster Mk. 44 autocannon, the ICV(P) can comfortably engage other lightly protected enemy vehicles at a distance while also posing a serious threat to even heavily armored MBTs at closer engagement distances thanks to its access to APFSDS rounds.



Unlike the Type 89 however, the ICV(P) doesn’t come equipped with integrated ATGM launchers, thus somewhat reducing its tactical flexibility and offensive capabilities somewhat. Nevertheless, playing to the ICV(P)’s strengths means utilizing the vehicle’s fantastic mobility and deadly autocannon to scout out targets for allies and neutralize threats on the flanks in the close proximity of the ICV(P) itself.



The ICV(P) will soon reinforce the top ranks of the Japanese ground forces tree in the Firebirds major update. That’s it for today’s devblog. While you’re waiting for the wonderful ICV(P) to arrive, stay tuned to the news to find out what else the upcoming update will bring with it. Until then, happy hunting tankers!

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

One of the main national holidays of Italy is dedicated to the capitulation of Austria-Hungary in the First World War, which took place on November 4th, 1918. As a result of the peace treaty, Italy annexed South Tyrol, the Austrian Littoral, Trieste and part of Dalmatia, thus completing the unification of all the lands that it considered its own. For this purpose, Italy entered the First World War, so the victory over Austria-Hungary is also celebrated as the Day of Armed Forces of Italy.

[h2]The P40 “G.C. Leoncello” and M43 “G.C. Leoncello” are temporarily available at a 50% discount for Golden Eagles![/h2]
In honor of the holiday, the Italian P40 and M43 from the Leoncello armored squadron group are temporarily available at a 50% discount for 575 and 650 Golden Eagles respectively.

When: From today until November 7th (07:00 GMT).
Where: Italy > Army > Premium Vehicles.

About these vehicles

• The P40 “G.C. Leoncello” is well suited for medium-range combat and ambush attacks. It’s quite mobile and can penetrate up to 100 mm of armor with its HEAT shell. The sloped armor of this tank often caused ricochets, especially when it’s positioned in a diamond shape. Smoke grenades also allow you to hide from the enemy when needed!
  

• The M43 “G.C.Leoncello” is a tank destroyer armed with a 105 mm gun, whose HEAT shell has armor penetration of up to 120 mm. However, due to its mediocre ballistics, it’s best used at medium ranges. This tank has a smaller profile, allowing it to be placed in unexpected positions to surprise the enemy.
  

[h2]Get the “Italian Unity” decal! [/h2]
Available for this day!

“Italian Unity” decal

When: From today until November 7th (07:00 GMT).
Task: Play 3 battles using Italian vehicles at rank III or above to receive the “Italian Unity” decal!

Additional details:

• Your activity must not be below 70%.
  
• You can complete the task in random battles, except for Enduring Confrontation missions, [Assault] mode and Helicopter PVE battles.
  
• Track your progress in the hangar by clicking Nickname → Achievements → Holidays → National Unity Day of Italy.
  
• You can find the decal in the “Holidays” tab in the Customization menu.
  

Today we’ll be taking a look at the KV-7, an experimental three-barreled tank destroyer and the main reward for the Dreams Come True event!

[h2]KV-7 U-13: A Premium Tank Destroyer for the USSR at Rank III[/h2]
At a glance:

• Three guns (one 76 mm, two 45 mm).
  
• Excellent armor!
  
• Great APHE shells.
  
• Average mobility.
  
• Poor gun elevation/depression.
  

Vehicle History
[expand]
The design team at the Chelyabinsk plant aimed to create an assault tank on the KV-1 chassis and considered multi-barrel layout schemes. One of these options was a prototype with the U-13 gun system for placing one 76 mm F-34 gun and two 45 mm 20-K guns into the turret. In view of the difficult situation at the front and the urgent need for an armored vehicle with increased firepower, work proceeded rapidly.

The first prototype was produced in December 1941, and the assembly of a test batch began almost immediately afterward. Field tests were conducted on January 5th 1942 in Mytishchi near Moscow. The three-barreled KV-7 demonstrated low accuracy due to the poor design of the breech frame and the inaccuracy of the sight, which did not take into account the significant difference between the ballistics of the guns. As a result, having received the test results, Joseph Stalin himself personally ordered that further development of the three-barreled version be abandoned. The rest is history.
[/expand]



[h2]Meet the KV-7![/h2]

For War Thunder’s birthday, we’ve selected a suitable and special vehicle, the three-barreled Soviet KV-7 U-13 premium tank as the main reward in the Dreams Come True event! Let’s dive into the strengths and weaknesses of this interesting monstrosity.



A quick look at the KV-7 will reveal that its main difference from regular tank destroyers lies in its armament. The KV-7 is equipped with a 76 mm F-34 cannon, familiar from early T-34 tanks, along with a pair of 45 mm 20-K cannons which were used in pre-war light tanks of the USSR, such as the BT-7, BT-5, and T-26. All three cannons can fire simultaneously, and despite the differences in ballistics, at short and medium ranges the shells from the three cannons still group together quite well.

If you’re an experienced Soviet ground forces player, you’ve likely mastered the excellent BR-350 rounds fired from the 76 mm cannon. Yeah, sometimes they might not have enough armor penetration for the heavier tanks, but any penetration causes a large explosion and significant damage to internal modules and crew. Because of this, it would be a wise idea to prioritize these shells as the main ammunition type for the KV-7, and load the 45 mm guns with, say, APCR or APBC rounds. The KV-7 features a variety of ammunition options for taking out various opponents, from lightly armored targets to the more heavily armored beasts, so make sure to select the right rounds for the job as some may not be as effective as others depending on the situation.



What about armor? The KV-7 inherits its hull protection from the KV-1. This means it has well-protected sides, and frontal hull armor over 100 mm thick with the additional plating. The front of the casemate itself is also 100 mm thick, comprised of a 25 mm plate on top of a 75 mm plate, along with a sturdy gun mantlet. Having said this, the KV-1’s weakpoints are still present on the KV-7, primarily the drivers port and flat casemate front. Like the KV-1, the KV-7 benefits from angling its chassis to increase survivability — however unlike a regular tank, doing this will make it harder to fire back as the KV-7 has limited firing angles. This tactic though can be used effectively to bait a shot before turning back and bearing down all three guns upon your enemy.



In terms of mobility the KV-7 performs as expected, being similar to the KV-1. The speed is average but sufficient enough to allow it to get into positions and fight the enemy aggressively when needed.

The premium KV-7 U-13 is the main reward for the Dreams Come True event which begins today! Overall the KV-7 is going to fit in well with Soviet ground forces lineups at ranks II-III. For players who would like to start their research of Soviet vehicles, the KV-7 presents the perfect opportunity to research ranks I to IV.

[h3]Click here to find out more details about the Dreams Come True event[/h3]

Boo! Happy Halloween! Thanks for submitting your screenshots - They looked fantastic. A lot has been going on, and there is more to come! This week- take a picture of something with a piston-powered engine! This can be a picture of an early biplane, or even a few modern vehicles- but nothing with a jet or turbine engine. The three most popular and three selected by us will get 300 GE. See the winners down below!

[h2]Let’s begin the 144th edition of our competition![/h2]

Create a stunning screenshot and submit it on the War Thunder Steam Community Hub with the tag #WTscreen144. You have time until the 8th of November 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 feature a vehicle with a piston engine.
You must add the #WTscreen144 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 143rd edition – Quite a Fright![/h2]

[h3]Winners selected via community votes:[/h3]
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3354907105
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3354940231
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3355864750

[h3]Winners selected by our judges:[/h3]
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3357511627
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3355157712
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3356115725

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