Difference between pages "M18 "Black Cat"" and "Yak-3 (VK-107)"

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{{Specs-Card
+
{{Specs-Card|code=yak-3_vk107}}
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|code = us_m18_hellcat_black_cat
 
−
}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
−
| about = American tank destroyer '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = Soviet premium fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = the regular version
+
| usage = other uses
−
| link = M18 GMC
+
| link = Yak-3 (Family)
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
<!--In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.-->
+
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_M18BlackCat.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
[[File:GarageImage_Yak-3_VK-107.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
{{break}}
 
{{break}}
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift Rank {{Specs|rank}} American tank destroyer {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.49 "Weapons of Victory"]]. The M18 "Black Cat" is a gift version of the [[M18 GMC|M18 Hellcat]], with little difference in performance. As of [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"|Update 1.89]], it is currently not available for sale on the [https://store.gaijin.net/storefront.php?category=WarThunder Gaijin Store].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium rank {{Specs|rank}} Russian fighter {{Battle-rating}}. This aircraft was introduced in [[Update 1.51 "Cold Steel"]].
−
 
 
−
The M18 "Black Cat" compensates the lack of anti-tank capability on U.S vehicles by having access to a 76 mm gun with APCR ammunition. This makes the M18 able to fight off many of the common vehicles it could face like the [[Panther D]], [[Tiger H1]], [[KV-1_(ZiS-5)|KV-1]], [[KV-85]], and [[IS-1]].
 
−
 
 
−
Unlike the other tank destroyers known in the game, the M18 "Black Cat" has access to a 360° traversable turret, allowing players to have a greater arc of fire than a typical casemate tank destroyer like the [[StuG III G|StuG III]], but at the expense of a slightly higher profile. Americans tank destroyers also have very high manoeuvrability compared to other nation's tank destroyers, allowing it to flank the enemy.
 
−
 
 
−
The main weak point of M18 is its very thin armour, a feature that actually allows the M18 to reach its high speed. The thin armour makes it possible for any enemy tanks to penetrate the vehicle. A single hit would destroy many critical components in the M18 or cripple the crew. The only saving grace with this extremely thin ammunition is that standard AP rounds may over-penetrate the armour, doing minimal damage to the internals. Thus, when facing the M18, it's best to use AP rounds with explosive fillers or HE and HEAT rounds while avoiding usage of pure AP rounds and APCR.
 
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Survivability and armour ===
+
=== Flight Performance ===
−
<!--Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat?
+
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
  
−
If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.-->
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
−
'''Armour type:'''
+
|-
−
 
+
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
−
* Rolled homogeneous armour
 
−
* Cast homogeneous armour (Gun mantlet)
 
−
 
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
+
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || 12.7 mm (39-64°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 12.7 mm (23-52°) ''Lower glacis'' || 12.7 mm (23-26°) ''Top'' <br> 12.7 mm ''Bottom'' || 12.7 mm (12°) ''Top'' <br> 12.7 mm (36°) ''Bottom'' || 8 mm
+
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at ?,000 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || 25.4 mm (15-26°) ''Turret front'' <br> 19 mm + 25.4 mm (0-55°) ''Gun mantlet''|| 12.7 mm (1-21°) || 12.7 mm (7°) || N/A ''Open-top'' <br> 8 mm ''Bustle and Front''
+
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 
|-
 
|-
−
|}
+
|739||719||10400||18.8||18.9||28.1||23.6||360
−
'''Notes:'''
 
−
 
 
−
* Suspension wheels and tracks are 15 mm thick.
 
−
* Belly armour is 5 mm thick.
 
−
* The hull underside right above the tracks are only 8 mm thick.
 
−
* Tracks are attached the the turret rear, granting some 15 mm in thickness.
 
−
 
 
−
=== Mobility ===
 
−
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
−
 
 
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 653|rbMinHp= 407|<!--AoAweight=(optional) -->}}
 
−
 
 
−
== Armaments ==
 
−
=== Main armament ===
 
−
<!--''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''-->
 
−
{{main|M1 (76 mm)}}
 
−
76 mm M1 is an extremely capable gun with a high damage potential and a very good gun handling. It can be found on tanks used up to battle rating 6.0, making it one of the most widely used guns throughout the battle ratings and with M18 being the first tanks to use it - it gives it a very high staying power throughout battle ratings. Once upgraded, the turret has very fair guidance in both: horizontal and vertical axis allowing to quickly catch pot-shots, though given exceptional mobility of the platform even it struggles to catch up with the near-instant hull rotation.
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[M1 (76 mm)|76mm M1]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
+
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at ?,000 m)
−
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
−
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
+
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! ''Arcade''
+
! AB
−
| rowspan="2" | 45 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 21.13 || 29.25 || 35.50 || 39.30 || 41.79 || rowspan="2" | 7.93 || rowspan="2" | 7.02 || rowspan="2" | 6.47 || rowspan="2" | 6.10
+
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 
|-
 
|-
−
! ''Realistic''
+
| ? || ? || {{Specs|ceiling}} || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ???
−
| 14.28 || 16.80 || 20.40 || 22.60 || 24.00
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
===== Ammunition =====
+
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
====Details====
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
! colspan="5" | Features
−
! rowspan="2" class="unsortable" | Type of <br /> warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration''' '''''in mm''''' '''@ 90°'''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 10m
+
! Combat flaps
−
! 100m
+
! Take-off flaps
−
! 500m
+
! Landing flaps
−
! 1000m
+
! Air brakes
−
! 1500m
+
! Arrestor gear
−
! 2000m
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| M62 Shell || APCBC || 127 || 125 || 116 || 106 || 97 || 89
+
| X || X || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
−
|-
 
−
| M42A1 Shell || HE || 7 || 7 || 7 || 7 || 7 || 7
 
−
|-  
 
−
| M79 Shot || AP || 155 || 154 || 131 || 107 || 88 || 72
 
−
|-  
 
−
| M93 Shot || APCR || 221 || 215 || 203 || 181 || 154 || 124
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
 
−
! colspan="11" | Shell details
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
! colspan="5" | Limits
−
! rowspan="2" class="unsortable" | Type of <br /> warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Velocity <br /> in m/s
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Projectile<br />Mass in kg
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Fuse delay''
 
−
''in m:''
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Fuse sensitivity''
 
−
''in mm:''
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Explosive Mass in g<br /> (TNT equivalent):''
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Normalization At 30° <br> from horizontal:''
 
−
! colspan="3" | ''Ricochet:''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 0%
+
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
−
! 50%
+
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
−
! 100%
+
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
−
| M62 Shell || APCBC || 792 || 7 || 1.2 || 20 || 63.7 || +4° || 48° || 63° || 71°
+
! +
 +
! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| M42A1 Shell || HE || 800 || 5.8 || 0.1 || 0.5 || 390 || +0° || 79° || 80° || 81°
+
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || ??? || ~?? || ~?
−
|-
 
−
| M79 Shot || AP || 792 || 6.8 || N/A || N/A || N/A || -1° || 47° || 60° || 65°
 
−
|-
 
−
| M93 Shot || APCR || 1036 || 4.3 || N/A || N/A || N/A || +1.5° || 66° || 70° || 72°
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
+
 
−
! colspan="7" | Smoke characteristic
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Ammunition
+
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
−
! Velocity <br /> in m/s
+
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
−
! Projectile<br />Mass in kg
+
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
−
! ''Screen radius <br /> in m''
+
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
−
! ''Screen time <br /> in s''
 
−
! ''Screen hold time <br /> in s:''
 
−
! ''Explosive Mass in g<br /> (TNT equivalent):''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| M88 || 274 || 3.4 || 13 || 5 || 20 || 50
+
| < ??? || < ??? || < ??? || > ???
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
===== [[Ammo racks|Ammo racks]] =====
 
−
[[File:Ammoracks_M18GMC.png|right|thumbnail|300px|Ammo racks of the {{PAGENAME}}.]]
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Full<br>ammo
+
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
−
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
−
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
−
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
−
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
−
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''45''' || 37 ''(+8)'' || 27 ''(+18)'' || 17 ''(+28)'' || 9 ''(+36)'' || 1 ''(+44)'' || No
+
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
|-
 
|-
 +
! Optimal altitude
 +
! 100% Engine power
 +
! WEP Engine power
 +
|-
 +
| ?,??? m || ??? hp || ?,??? hp
 +
|-
 +
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 +
|-
 +
! Optimal altitude
 +
! 100% Engine power
 +
! WEP Engine power
 +
|-
 +
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 +
|-
 +
! Optimal altitude
 +
! 100% Engine power
 +
! WEP Engine power
 +
|-
 +
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 +
|- -->
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
Turret empty: 37 ''(+8)''
+
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
  
−
When fighting in downtiers it's best to take only 17 shells, which allows the turret and sides of the tank to be empty of shells, notably increasing survivability. Otherwise, it doesn't matter how many rounds are loaded, as most hits against the tank will prove deadly regardless.
+
== Armaments ==
 +
=== Offensive armament ===
 +
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|B-20M (20 mm)|B-20S (20 mm)}}
  
−
=== Machine guns ===
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
−
<!--Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.-->
 
−
{{main|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)}}
 
  
 +
* 1 x 20 mm B-20M cannon, nose-mounted (120 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 20 mm B-20S cannon, nose-mounted (120 rpg)
 +
 +
== Usage in battles ==
 +
''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
 +
 +
===Manual Engine Control===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="7" | [[Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2HB]]
+
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="7" | ''Pintle mount''
+
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 +
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
 +
! colspan="3" | Radiator
 +
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 +
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" rowspan="1" style="width:5em" |Capacity (Belt capacity)
+
! Oil
−
! rowspan="1" | Fire rate <br> (shots/minute)
+
! Water
−
! rowspan="1" | Vertical <br> guidance
+
! Type
−
! rowspan="1" | Horizontal <br> guidance
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="4" | 800 (200) || 576 || -10°/+70° || ±60°
+
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
== Usage in battles ==
+
===Modules===
−
<!--Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).-->
 
−
Before all, avoid colourful or bright decals. Camouflage is the main part of the M18's defence. Chances for good performance in battle are: be "invisible", fast and effective.
 
−
The M18's speed is its best ally. This speed has to be used for flanking manoeuvres and relocate. Not for trying to cross an open field, that will leave it open to enemy fire, speed is not a substitute for armour.
 
−
 
 
−
'''''Relocate''''': This movement will have to be done again and again. Choose a good spot wisely, remove the foliage if necessary to get a clear field of fire. When in the fire spot, use the gun depression and stay in a hull down position until a target is located. Once a target is locked on, aim at critical components. Try to immobilize the enemy by firing at the engine or transmission, or remove their firepower by shooting the gun or breech, or for instant destruction with an aim at the ammo storage. The last option can work very well or not, as skilled players only carry a few rounds of ammo.
 
−
 
 
−
If positive that the enemy hasn´t discovered the firing spot, go for another shot. Stay attentive that none of the enemy's teammates has also located the firing spot. If detected, hide immediately and relocate.
 
−
 
 
−
'''''Flanking''''': Flanking is the most dangerous manoeuvre of all because the vehicle will have to be exposed as it moves to the enemy's rear, but it is very effective when it's coordinated with other vehicles. A distraction is needed to gain the enemy's attention while the M18 makes its move. Isolated enemy units are very vulnerable to this tactic. Using the M18 speed to get to the rear and as the enemy heads toward the objective, the firing perspective should give a very clear view of the enemy's side armour. A good shot with the M62 APCBC shell could knock out the enemy rather quickly, but if using solid AP shots like the M79, aim at critical components on mobility and firepower before knocking out the crew or ammo stowage.
 
−
 
 
−
'''''Avoid flat terrain''''': Flat terrain means that the Hellcat will become an easy target for virtually any vehicle by exposure, especially when not moving or when moving in a straight line. Open plains are the bane of the Hellcat. Whenever possible, one should try to stay amongst hills.
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
−
!Tier
+
! colspan="1" | Tier
−
! colspan="2" |Mobility
+
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
−
!Protection
+
! colspan="1" | Survivability
−
! colspan="2" |Firepower
+
! colspan="1" | Weaponry
 
|-
 
|-
−
|I
+
| I
−
|Tracks||
+
| Fuselage repair
−
|Parts
+
| Radiator
−
|Horizontal Drive||
+
|
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
−
|II
+
| II
−
|Suspension||Brake System
+
|
−
|FPE
+
| Compressor
−
|M79 shot||Adjustment of Fire
+
| Airframe
−
|-
+
| Offensive 20 mm
−
|III
 
−
|Filters||
 
−
|Crew Replenishment
 
−
|M93 shot||Elevation Mechanism
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|IV
+
| III
−
|Transmission||Engine
+
| Wings repair
 +
| Engine
 
|
 
|
−
|M88
 
 
|
 
|
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="6" |This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase
+
| IV
 +
| 100 octane fuel usage
 +
| Engine injection
 +
| Cover
 +
| New 20 mm cannons
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" |This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".-->'''Pros:'''
+
<!-- ''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
−
* Overall mobility is superb, with very responsive manoeuvring that allows the Hellcat to excel in flanking manoeuvres
+
'''Pros:'''
−
* Fast reload speed and turret traverse
+
 
−
* Stock APCBC round has great penetration and lots of explosive fillers, rarely requiring more than one penetrating shot to kill common tanks like M4, Cromwell, [[Tiger H1]] or [[Panzer V Panther (Family)|Panther]]
+
* Excellent rate of climb
−
* Low profile, reducing target size and allows it to hide behind small bushes or rocks easily
+
* Excellent turn rate
−
* The nature of its thin armour means AP rounds have a tendency to pass straight through without damaging modules, and an APHE fuze may not even be triggered. For example the Russian 122mm will over-penetrate, dealing little damage.
+
* Excellent acceleration when below 4000 m, it's even faster than some early period jets
 +
* Excellent roll rate
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Thin armour means rapid-fire autocannons, heavy machine guns, and aerial weapons could easily shred it. Beware of the [[R3 T20 FA-HS]], [[IL-2 (Family)|IL-2]] and [[Wirbelwind]]!
+
* Low top speed in a dive, the plane rips at 720 km/h
−
* Commander is exposed at the 0.50 calibre machine gun mount, and knocking him out would render the weapon useless
+
* Control stiffening when flying above 500 km/h, the roll rate is significantly lower
−
* Open-top construction means aerial strikes and artillery could rain havoc onto the crew
+
* Bad acceleration when above 5000 m
−
* Gun has poor penetration in an uptier, often can't penetrate anything frontally unless hitting a weak spot. The [[Ho-Ri Production|Ho-Ri]], [[Tiger II (H)]] and [[M26 (Family)|M26]] are frontally immune to this 76mm M1.
+
* Low ammo count, only 120 rounds per gun, often runs out after getting 2-3 kills
−
* Doesn't have access to APCR unlike its American counterpart.
 
−
* Rarely reaches 50 km/h in Realistic Battles, even in a straight line, therefore can be outran by the Sd.kfz.234 series or the [[R3 T20 FA-HS]]
 
−
* A moment of immobility due to a damaged engine or transmission could be a sign of impending doom for the M18
 
−
* Hull-break mechanics mean any explosions, HEAT or well-aimed AP round could instantly destroy the vehicle
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!--Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).-->
+
<!--Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== Encyclopedia Info ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).-->
−
===US Tank Destroyer Doctrine===
 
−
The anti-tank doctrine established by the US military called for fast, powerful vehicles able to stop the German blitzkrieg tactics by ambushing the attacking tank forces. Unlike the other armoured fighting vehicles in the theatre, the tank destroyers were made to be placed in reserves to counter any breach in the front lines by taking out the enemy with ambushes. This role led to the desire for a fast vehicle with a powerful gun, the armour was not a concern due to the emphasis in speed. The initial response was the [[M10 GMC|M10 GMC]], made form the [[M4|Medium Tank M4 Sherman]] hull and mounting a 3-inch M1918 gun. While adequate at this role, it was no faster than an ordinary Sherman tank. The '''M18 GMC''' was a response to the problem to provide the tank destroyer force with a very fast tank destroyer.
 
  
−
===Development===
+
The idea to produce a new fighter for the Red Army Air Force went as far back as 1941. It was then that the Yakovlev Design Bureau presented the I-30 prototype, intended an alternative to the earlier Yak-1 design. However, the German invasion of the USSR, as well as aluminium shortages, meant that the project had to be put on hold. Yakovlev resumed the development in 1943 while working on an upgraded version of the Yak-1 fighter. This time, it was decided that a new aircraft should be produced to completely replace the Yak-1 and Yak-7 models.  
−
The origin of the '''[[M18 GMC|M18 GMC]]''' design came as early as December 1941 with the requirement of a Christie suspension and a 37mm gun. This requirement called for a radical new tank design rather than a derivative of the M4 Sherman. These requirements changed as the war progressed, the first change was to the new and innovative Torsion bar suspension from Buick Motor Division from General Motors and another change was to mount the British QF 6-pounder gun then in use on their Churchill Mark III tanks, the developed prototype vehicle was called the '''T49 GMC'''. Then the army wanted the heavier 75mm gun used on the Shermans on it, this prototype was designated the '''T67 GMC'''. Finally, the army decided to mount the 76mm gun also in development for the Sherman onto the prototype, now known as '''T70 GMC'''. Changes to hull shape and turret took place to accommodate all these new requirements and armament, but it eventually was approved for service and finally renamed as the '''M18 GMC''' and started production in mid-1943, which went on until ending in October 1944 with 2,507 units produced. A variant called the '''M39 Armored Utility Vehicle''' was also produced, its turret was removed for space for cargo, 8 personnel, or to tow guns.
 
  
−
===Combat usage===
+
By September 1943, yet another improved variant was ready, designated Yak-1M Dubler, on which the canvas skin on the tail section was replaced with 2mm plywood, and oil and water radiators were improved. The Dubler also had a new mastless antenna, a ring sight instead of a reflector sight, improved armour and a new propeller. Test pilots were impressed by the new prototype. Their report stated in part: "''Yak-1M possessed excellent horizontal, and especially vertical, manoeuvrability. Top speed greatly improved compared to earlier serial-production Yaks. Despite the improved performance, the aircraft remains easy to fly and does not require extensive pilot training''."  
−
These vehicles saw combat debut in the summer of 1944, where they are given the unofficial nickname '''"Hellcat"''' by the crews using them. Unlike the M10 tank destroyer that was built before it, the M18 GMC was purely made for emphasis on speed. Armour was restricted down to a maximum of 1-inch (25mm) on the turret front while the rest of the body plating is a measly .50-inches thick (12.7mm). The turret was also an open-top design similar to the M10 tank destroyer, meaning the crew are left exposed to the elements and enemy fire and shrapnel. These faults were mitigated by the fact that as its role as a tank destroyer, it was to have minimum contact with infantry and ambush enemy tanks in concealed position rather than face them in an offensive operation. Nevertheless, the M18 GMC were well liked by the crew for its 76mm cannon, which allows it to destroy the newer German [[Tiger H1|Tiger Is]] and [[Panther D|Panthers]] tanks from the front with HVAP ammo (though the Panther at close range only) when unable to flank around to the side or rear of these tanks. The speed was also astounding, reaching 55 miles per hour maximum, this makes the M18 GMC the fastest armoured fighting vehicle in World War II and was not succeeded until the third-generation main battle tank M1 Abrams. The name '''"Black Cat"''' came from the 805th Tank Destroyer Battalion, Company B where the naming practice for the battalion was the first letter of the company, then "Cats". Thus, a crew in Company B named their hellcat the "Black Cats".
 
  
−
While use in the Pacific theatre was limited due to the inadequate armour of Japanese tanks, it saw most of its service in the European theatre against Nazi Germany. Due to the lack in armour and emphasis on speed, the M18 crews utilize the "shoot and scoot" tactic in attacking the enemy from one position and quickly move to another before the enemy could find their initial firing position, this tactic confuses the German tanks, and could even lead them to believe there are more armoured enemy than what it appears. The M18 GMCs were present during the Battle of Arracourt in France as the 704th Tank Destroyer Battalion. Lt. Edwin Leiper led an M18 platoon of C Company and in the battle knocked a total of 15 German tanks for the loss of three M18; six of these German tank kills, most of which were Panthers, were credited to one M18 led by Sgt Henry R. Hartman. The M18 also played a crucial part in the Battle of the Bulge, where its top speed of 55 mph was finally put to good use in bypassing the enemy forces. Four M18 tank destroyers of the 705th Tank Destroyer Battalion assisted the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment in attacking the 2nd Panzer Divison and their support to kill the fuel lines to the German tanks. The overall attack had the M18 GMCs credited with at least 24 tank kills of the 30 total inflicted in the attack.
+
The new machine was dubbed as the Yak-3 and entered service with the Red Army Air Force in 1944. The Yak-3 was a further modification of the Yak-1, produced in 1944 and 1945, with a total of 4,848 built, and considered one of the best fighters of the war.
  
−
===Legacy===
+
The new fighter quickly became very popular with Soviet pilots. They highly praised its solid armament of two Berezin UBS 12.7 mm machine guns and one ShVAK 20 mm cannon as well as ease of piloting and superb low-altitude performance. Marcel Albert, the top scoring French ace of World War II, cited the Yak-3 as one of the best fighters of the war, along with the P-51 Mustang and the Supermarine Spitfire. After the war, the Yak-3 was also used by the Air Forces of Socialist Yugoslavia and Poland.<ref name="forum">[https://warthunder.com/en/news/2693--en <nowiki>[Aircraft Profile] Yak-3</nowiki>]</ref>
−
Overall, the M18 GMC proved itself by having the highest kill to lose ratio to any other tanks and tank destroyer in American service, making it the most effective tank destroyer in American service. However, like its other tank destroyer brethren, it soon found itself obsolete along with the entire tank destroyer doctrine. Mainly due to increasing prevalence of well-armoured tanks that could do its job more efficiently such as the M26 Pershing, but also the lack of German AFVs at the time of the war and a study on ammo usage indicates that the tank destroyers spent more time supporting infantry with high-explosive shells than killing tanks with armour-piercing, rendering the anti-tank section an unnecessary component in the modernizing armoured forces.
 
  
−
Today, some countries in the world such as Yugoslavia still have the M18 Hellcats in reserves.
+
The Yak-3P was produced from April 1945 until mid-1946, armed with 3 × 20 mm Berezin B-20 cannon with 120 rounds for the middle cannon and 130 RPG for the side weapons. The three-cannon armament with full ammunition load was actually 11 kg (24 lb) lighter than that of a standard Yak-3, and the one-second burst mass of 3.52 kg (7.74 lb) was greater than that of most contemporary fighters. Starting in August 1945, all Yak-3 were produced in the Yak-3P configuration with a total of 596 built.
  
 
=== In-game description ===
 
=== In-game description ===
−
The 805th’s M18 antitank vehicle was one of the most flamboyant. Its tactical designation was drawn in white against a black background. On the sides of the turret and body were white areas with two vertical black stripes and one horizontal one. On the sides of the body next to the mechanic’s station was a roundel of a cat biting through the body of the tank. It was the custom in the division to give their vehicles names, but the first letter of the “name” had to be the same as the company’s letter. So the first vehicle in company B was called “Black Cat”.
+
"The Yak-3 was a Soviet single-engine fighter of the WWII era. It was the first combat aircraft designed by Alexander Yakovlev's construction bureau. The Yak-3 was a further modification of the Yak-1, produced in 1944 and 1945, with a total of 4,848 built, and considered one of the best fighters of the war. In February 1943, a new Yak-1M variant was completed. It was a further development of the Yak-1, differing from it mainly in lower weight and smaller wing span.
 +
 
 +
By September 1943, yet another improved variant was ready, designated Yak-1M Dubler, on which the canvas skin on the tail section was replaced with 2mm plywood, and oil and water radiators were improved. The Dubler also had a new mastless antenna, a ring sight instead of a reflector sight, improved armor and a new propeller. Test pilots were impressed by the new prototype. Their report stated in part: ""Yak-1M possessed excellent horizontal, and especially vertical, maneuverability. Top speed greatly improved compared to earlier serial-production Yaks. Despite improved performance, the aircraft remains easy to fly and does not require extensive pilot training."" Therefore, the new modification went into production, receiving a new designation, Yak-3.
 +
 
 +
One of the most memorable air battles for the Yak-3 took place on 16th July 1944, when the plane showed it could confidently engage superior enemy forces. On that day, 10 Yak-3s met 8 Bf-109s and 4 FW-190s, with the battle eventually growing to 18 Soviet and 24 German planes. In the end, 15 German planes were shot down, for the loss of a single Yak-3."
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
<!--Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.-->
+
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
−
[[File:M18 GMC BC Insignia Garage.jpg|x250px|thumbnail|none|M18 "Black Cat" unit insignia on the hull side.]]
 
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
+
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
<!--Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:
+
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 +
 
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
+
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
−
* ''other literature.''-->
+
* ''other literature.''
−
 
 
−
* [[wt:en/devblog/current/760/|[Devblog<nowiki>]</nowiki> M18 and M18 'Black Cat']]
 
−
* [[wt:en/news/2922-article-series-weapons-of-victory-m18-black-cat-en|[Weapons of Victory<nowiki>]</nowiki> M18 "Black Cat"]]
 
  
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{{USA tank destroyers}}
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{{AirManufacturer Yakovlev}}
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{{USA premium ground vehicles}}
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{{USSR fighters}}
 +
{{USSR premium aircraft}}
 +
<references />

Revision as of 17:31, 14 July 2020

Rank VI | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
Yak-3 (VK-107)
yak-3_vk107.png
Yak-3 (VK-107)
USSR flag.png USSR
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
5.7 5.7 6.3
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:6 090 Specs-Card-Eagle.png
Show in game
This page is about the Soviet premium fighter Yak-3 (VK-107). For other uses, see Yak-3 (Family).

Description

GarageImage Yak-3 (VK-107).jpg


The Yak-3 (VK-107) is a premium rank IV Russian fighter with a battle rating of 5.7 (AB/RB) and 6.3 (SB). This aircraft was introduced in Update 1.51 "Cold Steel".

General info

Flight Performance

Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.

Characteristics
Stock
Max Speed
(km/h at ?,000 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
739 719 10400 18.8 18.9 28.1 23.6 360
Upgraded
Max Speed
(km/h at ?,000 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
 ?  ? 10400  ??.?  ??.?  ??.?  ??.?  ???

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X ✓ X X
Limits
Wing-break speed
(km/h) 		Gear limit
(km/h) 		Combat flap
(km/h) 		Max Static G
+ -
 ??? ~?? ~?
Optimal velocities
Ailerons
(km/h) 		Rudder
(km/h) 		Elevators
(km/h) 		Radiator
(km/h)
< ??? < ??? < ??? > ???
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
 ?,??? m  ??? hp  ?,??? hp

Survivability and armour

Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main articles: B-20M (20 mm), B-20S (20 mm)

The Yak-3 (VK-107) is armed with:

  • 1 x 20 mm B-20M cannon, nose-mounted (120 rpg)
  • 1 x 20 mm B-20S cannon, nose-mounted (120 rpg)

Usage in battles

Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Not controllable Not controllable Not controllable Separate Not controllable Not controllable

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage repair Radiator
II Compressor Airframe Offensive 20 mm
III Wings repair Engine
IV 100 octane fuel usage Engine injection Cover New 20 mm cannons
This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent rate of climb
  • Excellent turn rate
  • Excellent acceleration when below 4000 m, it's even faster than some early period jets
  • Excellent roll rate

Cons:

  • Low top speed in a dive, the plane rips at 720 km/h
  • Control stiffening when flying above 500 km/h, the roll rate is significantly lower
  • Bad acceleration when above 5000 m
  • Low ammo count, only 120 rounds per gun, often runs out after getting 2-3 kills

History

The idea to produce a new fighter for the Red Army Air Force went as far back as 1941. It was then that the Yakovlev Design Bureau presented the I-30 prototype, intended an alternative to the earlier Yak-1 design. However, the German invasion of the USSR, as well as aluminium shortages, meant that the project had to be put on hold. Yakovlev resumed the development in 1943 while working on an upgraded version of the Yak-1 fighter. This time, it was decided that a new aircraft should be produced to completely replace the Yak-1 and Yak-7 models.

By September 1943, yet another improved variant was ready, designated Yak-1M Dubler, on which the canvas skin on the tail section was replaced with 2mm plywood, and oil and water radiators were improved. The Dubler also had a new mastless antenna, a ring sight instead of a reflector sight, improved armour and a new propeller. Test pilots were impressed by the new prototype. Their report stated in part: "Yak-1M possessed excellent horizontal, and especially vertical, manoeuvrability. Top speed greatly improved compared to earlier serial-production Yaks. Despite the improved performance, the aircraft remains easy to fly and does not require extensive pilot training."

The new machine was dubbed as the Yak-3 and entered service with the Red Army Air Force in 1944. The Yak-3 was a further modification of the Yak-1, produced in 1944 and 1945, with a total of 4,848 built, and considered one of the best fighters of the war.

The new fighter quickly became very popular with Soviet pilots. They highly praised its solid armament of two Berezin UBS 12.7 mm machine guns and one ShVAK 20 mm cannon as well as ease of piloting and superb low-altitude performance. Marcel Albert, the top scoring French ace of World War II, cited the Yak-3 as one of the best fighters of the war, along with the P-51 Mustang and the Supermarine Spitfire. After the war, the Yak-3 was also used by the Air Forces of Socialist Yugoslavia and Poland.[1]

The Yak-3P was produced from April 1945 until mid-1946, armed with 3 × 20 mm Berezin B-20 cannon with 120 rounds for the middle cannon and 130 RPG for the side weapons. The three-cannon armament with full ammunition load was actually 11 kg (24 lb) lighter than that of a standard Yak-3, and the one-second burst mass of 3.52 kg (7.74 lb) was greater than that of most contemporary fighters. Starting in August 1945, all Yak-3 were produced in the Yak-3P configuration with a total of 596 built.

In-game description

"The Yak-3 was a Soviet single-engine fighter of the WWII era. It was the first combat aircraft designed by Alexander Yakovlev's construction bureau. The Yak-3 was a further modification of the Yak-1, produced in 1944 and 1945, with a total of 4,848 built, and considered one of the best fighters of the war. In February 1943, a new Yak-1M variant was completed. It was a further development of the Yak-1, differing from it mainly in lower weight and smaller wing span.

By September 1943, yet another improved variant was ready, designated Yak-1M Dubler, on which the canvas skin on the tail section was replaced with 2mm plywood, and oil and water radiators were improved. The Dubler also had a new mastless antenna, a ring sight instead of a reflector sight, improved armor and a new propeller. Test pilots were impressed by the new prototype. Their report stated in part: ""Yak-1M possessed excellent horizontal, and especially vertical, maneuverability. Top speed greatly improved compared to earlier serial-production Yaks. Despite improved performance, the aircraft remains easy to fly and does not require extensive pilot training."" Therefore, the new modification went into production, receiving a new designation, Yak-3.

One of the most memorable air battles for the Yak-3 took place on 16th July 1944, when the plane showed it could confidently engage superior enemy forces. On that day, 10 Yak-3s met 8 Bf-109s and 4 FW-190s, with the battle eventually growing to 18 Soviet and 24 German planes. In the end, 15 German planes were shot down, for the loss of a single Yak-3."

Media

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • encyclopedia page on the aircraft;
  • other literature.


A.S. Yakovlev Design Bureau (Яковлев Опытное конструкторское бюро)
Fighters 
Yak-1  Yak-1 · Yak-1B
Yak-3  Yak-3 · Yak-3 (VK-107) · Yak-3P · Yak-3T · Yak-3U
Yak-7  Yak-7B
Yak-9  Yak-9 · Yak-9B · Yak-9K · Golovachev's Yak-9M · Yak-9P · Yak-9T · Yak-9U · Yak-9UT
Twin-engine fighters  I-29
Jet fighters 
Yak-15  Yak-15P · Yak-15
Yak-17  Yak-17
Yak-23  Yak-23
Yak-30  Yak-30D
Yak-141  Yak-141
Strike aircraft 
Yak-2  Yak-2 KABB
Yak-38  Yak-38 · Yak-38M
Bombers  Yak-4
Jet bombers  Yak-28B
Foreign use  ▄Yak-3 · Challe's ▄Yak-9T · ◔Yak-9P
Captured  ▀Yak-1B

USSR fighters
I-15  I-15 WR · I-15 M-22 · I-15 M-25 · I-15bis · Krasnolutsky's I-15bis
  I-153 M-62 · Zhukovsky's I-153-M62 · I-153P
I-16  I-16 type 5 · I-16 type 10 · I-16 type 18 · I-16 type 24 · I-16 type 27 · I-16 type 28 · I-180S
I-29  I-29
I-185  I-185 (M-71) · I-185 (M-82)
I-225  I-225
ITP  ITP (M-1)
MiG-3  MiG-3-15 · MiG-3-15 (BK) · MiG-3-34
LaGG  I-301 · LaGG-3-4 · LaGG-3-8 · LaGG-3-11 · LaGG-3-23 · LaGG-3-34 · LaGG-3-35 · LaGG-3-66
La  La-5 · La-5F · La-5FN · La-7 · Dolgushin's La-7 · La-7B-20 · La-9 · La-11
Yak-1/7  Yak-1 · Yak-1B · Yak-7B
Yak-3  Yak-3 · Yak-3P · Yak-3T · Yak-3U · Yak-3 (VK-107)
Yak-9  Yak-9 · Yak-9B · Golovachev's Yak-9M · Yak-9T · Yak-9K · Yak-9U · Yak-9UT · Yak-9P
Other countries  ▂P-40E-1 · ▂P-47D-27 · ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ▂Fw 190 D-9 · ▂Spitfire Mk IXc
P-39  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15
P-63  ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5

USSR premium aircraft
Fighters  Krasnolutsky's I-15bis · I-16 type 28 · Zhukovsky's I-153-M62 · I-153P · I-180S · I-301 · ITP (M-1)
  LaGG-3-4 · LaGG-3-23 · LaGG-3-34 · Dolgushin's La-7 · La-11
  Yak-3 (VK-107) · Yak-3T · Golovachev's Yak-9M
  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15 · ▂P-40E-1 · ▂P-47D-27 · ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5
  ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ▂Spitfire Mk IXc · ▂Fw 190 D-9
Twin-engine fighters  I-29
Jet fighters  Su-11 · MiG-15bis ISH · MiG-17AS · MiG-21S (R-13-300) · MiG-23ML
Strike aircraft  IL-2M "Avenger" · IL-2 M-82 · IL-8 (1944) · Su-6 · Tandem MAI · TIS MA · Su-8 · Tu-1
  Yak-38 · Su-7BMK · Su-25K · Su-39
Bombers  Po-2M · Be-6 · MBR-2-M-34 · Pe-2-205 · TB-3M-17-32
  ▂PBY-5A Catalina · ▂Hampden TB Mk I · ▂A-20G-30 · ▂B-25J-30

  1. ↑ [Aircraft Profile] Yak-3
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