Difference between pages "J8A" and "AH-64D"

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(Usage in battles: will make a further edit for MP4)
 
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{{Specs-Card|code=gladiator_j8a}}
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{{Specs-Card|code=ah_64d}}
{{About
 
| about = Swedish fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| usage = other versions
 
| link = Gladiator (Family)
 
}}
 
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
<!-- ''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.'' -->
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<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the helicopter, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the helicopter 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_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
{{break}}
 
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Swedish fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.93 "Shark Attack"]] but is currently unavailable to be played in any game mode, however, it can be flown in test-flight and with the mission editor against NPC aircraft.
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American attack helicopter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]].
 
 
The {{PAGENAME}} or the original Gloster Gladiator Mk II was developed in an awkward time, in that it was an advancement in bi-plane technology over what was already in production, however, its time was almost up even before it rolled out the door as state-of-the-art monoplanes were beginning to take to the skies and outperform even the most advanced biplanes. Though a long future looked grim for the Gladiator, nevertheless it went into production and found a place in the Air Forces not only for the British but other nations such as the Swedish.
 
 
 
Initially a private venture by Gloster, the SS.37 started by modifying an existing prototype, the Gloster Gauntlet and outfit it with a Bristol Mercury M.E.30 radial engine and streamline the existing structure and wings to increase aerodynamic efficiency. By the time trials started, the plane was outfitted with a Mercury IV engine and then retooled for the Mercury VIS engine. Later adjustments outfitted the aircraft with a Mercury IX engine and a two-blade wooden fixed-pitch propeller, though some later models switched to a three-bladed metal pitch-adjustable propeller.
 
 
 
The Gladiator was the last British biplane to be produced, but it was the first one to feature a fully enclosed cockpit and though it entered service with the British, it almost immediately left the service being replaced by newer-generation fighters such as the Hawker [[Hurricane (Family)|Hurricane]] and Supermarine [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]]. While the British no longer found use with the biplanes, other nations felt they would be a fine addition and countries such as Sweden and 12 other countries nabbed up 216 of the remaining Gladiators. Those picked up by Sweden were redesignated ''J8A'' (Jaktplan = fighter airplane).
 
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== 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.''-->
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''Describe how the helicopter behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
[[File:J8a_an_trn_26_001.png|450px|thumb|right|'''{{PAGENAME}}''' on the tail of a [[Flegel%27s_Bf_109_A|Bf 109 A-1]].]]
 
The {{PAGENAME}} is an average biplane in terms of manoeuvrability, however, it is very stiff to the controls when attempting to roll the aircraft. Though an excellent flyer at lower altitudes and at lower speeds, keeping its speed up will increase its effectiveness when engaging in turn battles with other aircraft. The Bristol Mercury-IX engine allows this aircraft to reach top speeds of over 400 kph (~250 mph) and can be a contender with other biplanes, however it will start to struggle against early monoplanes such as the Heinkel [[He 112 (Family)|He 112]], Messerschmitt [[Flegel's Bf 109 A|Bf 109A]], Polykarpov [[I-16 (Family)|I-16]] and the Brewster [[F2A-1|F2A]] fighters. Though not as fast nor does it have the armament these do, it does have a turning advantage they do not and can sometimes make a quick turn around or tail-chase a faster fighter long enough to put guns on target and eliminate an enemy.
 
 
 
The {{PAGENAME}} has a very low stall speed and with the throttle reduced to around 55%, this fighter can maintain level flight at a speed of about 80 kph (50 mph) without nosing over. The vertical stabilizer is rather large for an aircraft of this type which lends itself to being an excellent aircraft for performing wing-over and hammerhead manoeuvres, especially when luring newer and unsuspecting enemy pilots into a rope-a-dope manoeuvre allowing for the {{PAGENAME}} to immediately change direction and pursue the tailing enemy fighter which may have themselves stalled out and set themselves up to be the perfect target for an inbound {{PAGENAME}}. 
 
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
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! colspan="3" | Characteristics
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
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! colspan="3" | ''Stock''
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,420 m)
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! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 1,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
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! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
+
! AB !! RB
 
|-
 
|-
| 402 || 385 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 16.7 || 17.3 || 13.4 || 13.4 || 232
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| ___ || ___ || {{Specs|ceiling}}
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
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! colspan="3" | ''Upgraded''
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,420 m)
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! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 1,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
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! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
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! AB !! RB
 
|-
 
|-
| ??? || 414 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || ??.? || 16.0 || ??.? || 15.7 || 232
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| ___ || ___ || {{Specs|ceiling}}
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
==== Details ====
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=== Survivability and armour ===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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''Examine the survivability of the helicopter. 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 systems.''
|-
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! colspan="5" | Features
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== Armaments ==
|-
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=== Offensive armament ===
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
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''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.''
|-
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| X || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- -->
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=== Suspended armament ===
|-
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''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''
|}
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 +
=== Defensive armament ===
 +
''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.''
 +
 
 +
== Usage in battles ==
 +
''<!--Describe the tactics of playing in a helicopter, the features of using helicopter 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).-->''
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'''Overview:'''
 +
 
 +
The AH.64D is very similar to the AH.64A Apache. The differences are the lack of an option to carry Aim-9L missiles, the new Longbow radar, improved Hellfires, and an improved ECM package. The Apache is an excellent helicopter for attacking ground targets, and can also hold its own against many enemy aircraft. Through adequate use of cover, teamwork, and game sense, the Apache can easily dismantle enemy teams. An Apache pilot must understand all of the tools at their disposal.
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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The Apache has an arsenal of weapons. The most effective anti-tank weapon in the Apache’s arsenal is the AGM114 Hellfire, which uses a top attack trajectory to destroy ground vehicles. There is functionally very little difference between the AGM114B and K variants, used on early and late Apaches respectively.
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Limits
 
|-
 
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Combat flaps<br>(km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
! + !! -
 
|-
 
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || 520 || ~11 || ~5
 
|-
 
|}
 
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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'''Staying Alive:'''
|-
 
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
 
|-
 
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
 
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
|-
 
| < 240 || < 200 || < 330 || > 190
 
|-
 
|}
 
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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Flying the Apache effectively can be more difficult than most players would imagine, processing information from optical sights, radar displays, and the radar warning receiver all at once can lead to information overload. If distracted by irrelevant information, a pilot can quickly lose situational awareness. Being successful in the Apache requires above all else situational awareness. Due to the fragility of the helicopter, any blindspot can lead to a quick and sudden death. Additionally, the mobility of the Apache is adequate but not impressive, so evasive maneuvers are not always effective.
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
|-
 
! Optimal altitude
 
! 100% Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
| 4,115 m || 810 hp || 826 hp
 
|-
 
|}
 
  
=== Survivability and armour ===
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Using cover is a very important part of staying alive in the Apache. Always stay behind a hill or building in ground battles. When exposing yourself in order to fire on the enemy, be mindful to not gain too much altitude. Most importantly, ''Always listen to your RWR and MAW. ''If you hear an alarm, take evasive action immediately.
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
  
Like many aircraft just prior to the break out of World War II, the {{PAGENAME}} was not outfitted with any armour plating. The {{PAGENAME}} relied on its engine to get the aircraft where it needed to go and helped the aircraft get into a position where the guns should shoot down an enemy, any attempts to install armour plating would have only slowed down the already relatively slow biplane which would not have been worth the trade-off.  
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The biggest improvement of the later Apache variants is the ability to mount the Longbow radar system. This system, if used properly, will help maintain situational awareness.
  
To maintain the centre of balance for this fighter, the pilot, fuel tank and engine take up the fuselage from the middle to the front, any attacks on this aircraft in this zone risk hitting a critical component, ending the {{PAGENAME}}'s fight in the battle earlier than expected. Though a closed cockpit may offer the pilot protection from glancing shots, it will not do much for head-on or side attacks.  
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Additionally, it is important to know when to use flares. Flares are extremely effective against heat-seeking missiles, but useless against any other missiles. It is the responsibility of the Apache pilot to recognize the threat and decide whether to use flares or not. For Apaches with MAW (missile alert warning), there is an option for flares to be dispensed automatically.
  
== Armaments ==
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'''Using the Longbow Radar:'''
[[File:J8a_an_trn_26_003.png|450px|thumb|right|A flight of '''{{PAGENAME}}''''s.]]
 
=== 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|Ksp m/22 (8 mm)}}
 
  
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
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The radar of the Apache should be used as a secondary tool when engaging ground targets. As of update 1.99.1.45 when this article was written, the radar is not effective in obtaining target lock for ground vehicles. The AGM114L radar guided hellfire is not in the game, so guidance of hellfires should be done by using the FLIR thermal imaging camera to lase targets. However, the radar is still useful in detecting enemy aircraft. By using the multi-function menu to switch radar mode, the radar will begin to search for air rather than ground targets. Keeping track of enemy aircraft is vital to survival in the Apache, as any plane can make quick work of the Apache if the helicopter is unprepared.
* 2 x 8 mm Ksp m/22 machine guns, side-mounted (600 rpg = 1,200 total)
 
* 2 x 8 mm Ksp m/22 machine guns, wing-mounted (400 rpg = 800 total)
 
  
The Swedish Air Forces decided to not outfit their {{PAGENAME}} fighters with the standard .303 machine guns the British typically used, instead they opted to install four 8 mm Ksp m/22 machine guns, two mounted on each side of the pilot within arm's reach and the other two were mounted one under each side of the lower wing. It is important for pilots of this aircraft to determine at what distance they typically engage enemy aircraft at as convergence of the machine guns is a necessity to manage to effectively put as many bullets as possible into the enemy fighter. Typically in biplanes, a closer convergence setting of 100 to 250 m is best for close-in fighting, typically as one gets farther out from there, bullets lose some of their punch.
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'''Air to Air (Stinger and Gun):'''
  
Many ace pilots from all sides of the war stated that when the enemy filled the windscreen, there was no way you could not hit, thereby guaranteeing a hit and conserving ammunition. The {{PAGENAME}} does not have the machine-gun speed of those found on some Russian biplanes as it is necessary to synchronize the firing of the guns in the fuselage to fire through the propeller arc. With 2,000 rounds of ammunition distributed between all four machine guns, it is recommended to fire in short bursts, mainly to prevent overheating and jamming of the machine guns. Typically you can continuously fire about 750 rounds of ammunition before the guns jam up and require a cool down before they can be used again.
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The Apache is surprisingly potent in air to air combat. Engagements should be conducted primarily through the use of the stinger missile. The stinger is a simple but effective air to air missile. It has an excellent seeker head and can obtain all aspect lock on almost any air target within 3-5km (even propellor aircraft with a low heat signature). However, the stinger can be easily fooled by flares or outmaneuvered by a fast enemy aircraft. The best way to use the stinger against enemy aircraft is when they are heading directly towards you. If fired at the right second, most enemies will struggle to dodge a stinger.
  
When possible, change out the default ammunition belts for either tracer belts which are very effective against other biplanes, especially those which have fabric coverings and non-self sealing fuel tanks as tracer rounds have a good chance of setting planes on fire which can rarely put the flames out. Air belts are another good choice due to the explosive filler in the round which helps to damage or disable aircraft faster than regular bullets. For those pilots who like to sneak into a fight and catch enemy aircraft unaware, stealth belts are the way to go as there are no tracer rounds to give away your position. The enemy pilots tend to realize where the stealth bullets are coming from only too late as their aircraft is coming apart and falling to the ground.
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If the enemy gets close, the 30mm autocannon can be extremely effective. The gun will automatically aim with optical lock, so Apache pilots can aim accurately while taking evasive maneuvers.
  
== Usage in battles ==
+
'''Close Range Air to Ground (Gun and Rockets):'''
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft 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).''-->
 
[[File:J8a_an_trn_26_002.png|450px|thumb|right|Scratch one more Bf 109.]]
 
On early maps which tend to favour biplanes and some early monoplanes, the {{PAGENAME}} pilot has the option to decide which type of target they will go after and arm up the ammunition to do so. The {{PAGENAME}} is a multirole aircraft which can pursue either air-to-air combat, ground attack or both. The {{PAGENAME}} is a very effective turn fighter and can hold its own against many early biplanes, but due to its speed, it has the option to turn fight or attempt early Boom & Zoom runs. If flying at an altitude above the enemy aircraft, the {{PAGENAME}} can selectively choose targets, swoop down on them and either zoom back up to altitude or zoom away out of range of slower aircraft before turning around.
 
  
One of the advantages of this aircraft's low-speed capabilities is its very low stall speed, which lends itself to be handy when strafing ground targets. Lightly armoured targets such as anti-aircraft artillery, light trucks and some light tanks can be in reach with the {{PAGENAME}}. When swooping in at a lower speed and attacking ground targets, after a pass, fly up in a shallow climb and perform a wing-over to immediately face the direction you just came in and begin to target up enemy vehicles and repeat. Fortified pill-boxes, medium and heavy tanks should be avoided as they will be relatively impervious to the 8 mm machine gunfire.
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At close range, the Apache has excellent offensive capability. The 30mm autocannon is incredibly accurate even at surprisingly far distances. This cannon uses a High Explosive Dual Purpose round that can engage lightly armored targets. Rocket pods can also be used, with the CCIP computer helping maintain accuracy even at further distances. Be careful when trying to use the Hellfire missile at close range. It can do a direct attack at closer ranges (rather than it’s usual top attack) but if fired at an odd angle, it may not have time to maneuver onto the target if fired at closer ranges.
  
{{PAGENAME}} fighters work great in teams of two or three. Fighters can rotate being "bait" for enemy aircraft, attempting to take an enemy for a tail and while the enemy if focusing on their target, one or both of your teammates then zip in and take out the enemy target and if you happen to catch them when they are close to stall speed, the easier it will be to eliminate them from the match.
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The problem with trying to engage at close range is that doing so will put the Apache in huge amounts of danger. Enemy tanks will be able to quickly destroy the Apache with their main guns or anti-aircraft machineguns.
  
=== Manual Engine Control ===
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'''Long Range Air to Ground (Hellfire): '''
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
[[File:HellfireTrajectory.png|thumb]]
|-
+
[[File:HellfireSequenceDemonstration.mp4|left|thumb]]
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
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At longer ranges, the Hellfire missile can be used to full effect. The hellfire will guide on its target as shown in the attached diagram. This is known as top attack. Being that it takes this path to the enemy target, the hellfire can take upward of 30 seconds to reach its target at longer ranges. Do not fire at enemies that are about to move to cover, and make sure to fire multiple missiles at once in order to deal maximum damage. Because the hellfire is laser guided, multiple missiles can be fired at once. They should be fired at intervals of 5-10 seconds, where between missiles the Apache can switch to a new ground target. This will allow for the quick destruction of multiple enemies. This tactic can be incredibly effective. Although the time to target for the most recently fired hellfire is available on the HUD, pilots will have to keep track of all the missiles they have fired by memory and quick calculations.
|-
 
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
 
! colspan="3" | Radiator
 
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 
|-
 
| Controllable || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
 
|-
 
|}
 
  
=== Modules ===
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Combatting enemy anti aircraft vehicles can be a challenge. Always remain in cover and move unpredictably in combat. Use the radar warning receiver to obtain the general direction of enemy AA, and then attack with a Hellfire. An effective strategy is to fire a hellfire, break optical lock to gain cover and avoid counterfire, and then pop back up and get lock again several seconds before the Hellfire hits. This strategy if applied correctly will result in a hit, as the Hellfire is smart enough to begin following the laser designator again once the Apache re-obtains its lock.
{| class="wikitable"
 
! Tier
 
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
! Survivability
 
! Weaponry
 
|-
 
| I
 
| Fuselage repair
 
| Radiator
 
|
 
| Offensive 8 mm
 
|-
 
| II
 
|
 
| Compressor
 
| Airframe
 
|
 
|-
 
| III
 
| Wings repair
 
| Engine
 
|
 
| New 8 mm MGs
 
|-
 
| IV
 
|
 
| Engine injection
 
| Cover
 
|
 
|-
 
|}
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 195: Line 94:
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
* Can go up to 418 km/h
 
* It's four 8 mm machine guns can quickly shred other low tier planes
 
* 2,000 rounds of ammunition total, can fire continuously about 750 rounds before guns jam
 
* Very high max altitude for its rank
 
* Fixed-pitch propeller reduces the need for manual engine control tweaking
 
* Fantastic rudder control for stall manoeuvres
 
* Very low stall speed
 
  
'''Cons:'''
+
* Hellfire missile is a great ground attack ATGM
* Climb rate is slower than most other planes that rival it
+
* Good top speed and manoeuvrable
* Poor roll rate
+
* Amazing 30 mm cannon; if ballistic computer is on, you can easily get kills on jets or helicopters from 2 km range
* Higher than average required takeoff length for biplanes
 
* No armour protection
 
* During simulator battles, much of the front view is obscured by the upper wing and canopy framing
 
* No option for bombs or rockets, strict aerial or ground attack with 8 mm machine guns only
 
  
== History ==
 
<!-- ''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>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
  
In 1936, a new defence resolution was made by the Swedish defence ministry to organise one new fighter wing and four new bomber wings in light of rising tensions in Europe. The new fighter wing was intended to provide an aerial defence to the Stockholm region and would consist of three squadrons. After a selection process, the Gloster Gladiator was found to be the aircraft most suited to requirements, and an order was made for 55 aircraft, which were to be locally fitted with engines and armament.
+
'''Cons:'''
  
The first Gloster Gladiator was delivered to the Swedish Air Force on April 15th 1937 and locally designated as the 'Jaktplan 8' (J8). While the first few Swedish Gladiators were fitted with the Fairey three-bladed propeller, the decision was taken to switch back to the earlier fixed-pitch two-bladed wooden propeller. The first 37 aircraft were built to Gladiator Mk.I standard with a 645 hp NOHAB-built Bristol Mercury VIS2; the last batch of 18 aircraft were built to Gladiator Mk.II standard with an 840 hp NOHAB-built Bristol Mercury VIII. The former batch thus became known as the J8, while the latter batch was known as the J8A. Both types were armed with the Ksp m/36, which was a license-built version of the Browning M1917 chambered for 8x63mm ammunition. Deliveries of the Swedish Gloster Gladiator concluded on July 16th 1939, but two aircraft were already lost in service before deliveries were finalised. The Gladiators were initially allocated to F1 Västmanland in 1937 before a new wing was formed. This wing, F8, was transferred to Barkarby, north of Stockholm, in October of 1938, becoming F8 Barkarby.
+
* Hellfire missiles are very difficult to use against moving aerial targets
  
Initial impressions of the Gloster Gladiator were mixed: the type was brand-new (having first flown in 1934 and having entered RAF service in February of 1937), but already conceptually outdated in comparison with types such as the German Bf 109, British Hawker Hurricane and the American P-35. As a result, more modern types were urgently sourced.
+
== History ==
 
+
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the helicopter 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>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
International events led to the Swedish J8 to have their ''combat debut'' in 1939 - albeit not under Swedish colours. Following the invasion of Finland by the Soviet Union on November 30th 1939, numerous countries offered military support to Finland, including neighbouring Sweden which went as far to form a volunteer squadron - ''Flygflottilj 19'' - which would enter combat under Finnish colours. The F19 Wing consisted of 12 J8A Gloster Gladiators capable of carrying 8 light bombs and 4 B4 Hawker Harts light bombers, supported by a Junkers F13, a Raab-Katzenstein RB-26 and a Waco ZQC-6 liaison aircraft, and was manned entirely by Swedish volunteers. After intense negotiations and preparations during December 1939 and early January 1940, the F19 Wing entered combat on January 12th 1940 with a raid on Soviet troop concentrations and air bases near Märkäjärvi, Salmijärvi and Salla. While the Hawker Hart bombers fared rather badly against enemy opposition (2 collided and 1 was shot down on this first raid, with 1 crew member killed, 2 taken PoW and 3 managings to ski back to their bases), the Gloster Gladiators went on to do rather better during their deployment. Over the course of two months, Swedish pilots claimed 10 kills; other than the 3 Harts lost on the first raid, the unit lost 3 Gladiators of which 2 were lost in accidents (one in a landing accident, pilot unhurt, and one due to structural failure, pilot killed), and 1 was shot down by Soviet airmen on January 23rd 1940 (pilot KIA). Following the cease-fire of March 13th 1940, the F19 Wing returned to Sweden and was disbanded.
 
 
 
In 1940, F8 Barkarby was re-equipped with the J9 (Seversky EP-1), with the J8s transferred to the F9 Säve wing which was tasked with protecting Gothenborg. The J8's stint with F9 was short, being replaced by the J11 (Fiat CR.42), after which they were used to equip the F10 Ängelholm Wing tasked with protecting Malmö. When the F10 Wing, in turn, was re-equipped with the J20 (Reggiane Re.2000), the J8's role as a frontline fighter in Swedish Air Force service was considered over, and the aircraft were distributed among other wings as advanced trainers, reserves and base hacks. During the latter part of their career in the Swedish Air Force, J8s were used piecemeal by the F8, F9, F10, F13, F16 and F20 wings. About 20 aircraft remained in service at the end of the Second World War, at which point they were progressively withdrawn from service as they were considered as being at the end of their service life. The last three Swedish J8 Gladiators were withdrawn from service on February 10th 1947.
 
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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== 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 aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''-->
 
;Other variants in-game
 
* Gloster [[Gladiator Mk II]] - nearly identical to the {{PAGENAME}}, however, utilises 4 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns and a three-bladed propeller.
 
* Gloster [[Tuck%27s_Gladiator_Mk_II|Gladiator Mk II]] - piloted by British pilot Robert S. Tuck. Identical aircraft to the Gladiator Mk II.
 
* Gloster [[Gladiator Mk IIF]] - Identical to Gladiator Mk II, removed from the game, replaced with [[Fury Mk I]] and [[Fury Mk II]].
 
* Gloster [[Gladiator Mk IIS]] - Identical to Gladiator Mk II, removed from the game, replaced with [[Nimrod Mk I]] and [[Nimrod Mk II]].
 
* Gloster [[Sea Gladiator Mk I]] - Nearly identical to Gladiator Mk.II, modified to allow for carrier landings.
 
* Gloster [[Gladiator Mk I (China)|Gladiator Mk I]] - Aircraft sold to China, nearly identical to Gladiator Mk II.
 
  
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
+
* ''reference to the series of the helicopter;''
* Fiat [[CR.32]]
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
* Fiat [[CR.42]]
 
* Grumman [[F3F-2|F3F]]
 
* Polikarpov [[I-15 (Family)|I-15]]
 
* Polikarpov [[I-153 M-62|I-153]]
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
<!--''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
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<!--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 aircraft;''
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* ''encyclopedia page on the helicopter;''
 
* ''other literature.''-->
 
* ''other literature.''-->
* [https://www.scalemates.com/kits/sbs-model-d48005-gloster-gladiator-j8-j8a-in-swedish-service--990243 Scalemates.com website - Paint schemes of Gloster J8A fighters.]
 
* [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gloster_Gladiator Wikipedia website - Gloster Gladiator]
 
* [http://surfcity.kund.dalnet.se/gladiator_sweden.htm J8 Gloster Gladiator in the Swedish Air Force]
 
* [https://www.ipmsstockholm.org/magazine/1999/05/stuff_eng_detail_gladiator.htm ipmsstockholm.org website - Gloster Gladiator in Detail - Gladiators in Sweden]
 
* [http://users.kymp.net/mode0522/planes/gladiator.html Many details for building an accurate model along with large history section]
 
  
{{Sweden fighters}}
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* [[wt:en/news/6638-development-ah-64-apache-the-rotary-chieftain-en|[Devblog] AH-64 Apache: The Rotary Chieftain]]
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{{AirManufacturer Boeing}}
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{{USA helicopters}}

Revision as of 07:05, 25 July 2020

Rank 6 USA
F-5C Pack
AH-64D
ah_64d.png
AH-64D
AB RB SB
10.7 11.7 10.7
Research:400 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:1 020 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

GarageImage AH-64D.jpg


The AH-64D is a rank VII American attack helicopter with a battle rating of 10.7 (AB/SB) and 11.7 (RB). It was introduced in Update 1.97 "Viking Fury".

General info

Flight performance

Describe how the helicopter 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 1,000 m)
Max altitude
(metres)
AB RB
___ ___ 5400
Upgraded
Max Speed
(km/h at 1,000 m)
Max altitude
(metres)
AB RB
___ ___ 5400

Survivability and armour

Examine the survivability of the helicopter. 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 systems.

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.

Suspended armament

Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.

Defensive armament

Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.

Usage in battles

'

Overview:

The AH.64D is very similar to the AH.64A Apache. The differences are the lack of an option to carry Aim-9L missiles, the new Longbow radar, improved Hellfires, and an improved ECM package. The Apache is an excellent helicopter for attacking ground targets, and can also hold its own against many enemy aircraft. Through adequate use of cover, teamwork, and game sense, the Apache can easily dismantle enemy teams. An Apache pilot must understand all of the tools at their disposal.

The Apache has an arsenal of weapons. The most effective anti-tank weapon in the Apache’s arsenal is the AGM114 Hellfire, which uses a top attack trajectory to destroy ground vehicles. There is functionally very little difference between the AGM114B and K variants, used on early and late Apaches respectively.

Staying Alive:

Flying the Apache effectively can be more difficult than most players would imagine, processing information from optical sights, radar displays, and the radar warning receiver all at once can lead to information overload. If distracted by irrelevant information, a pilot can quickly lose situational awareness. Being successful in the Apache requires above all else situational awareness. Due to the fragility of the helicopter, any blindspot can lead to a quick and sudden death. Additionally, the mobility of the Apache is adequate but not impressive, so evasive maneuvers are not always effective.

Using cover is a very important part of staying alive in the Apache. Always stay behind a hill or building in ground battles. When exposing yourself in order to fire on the enemy, be mindful to not gain too much altitude. Most importantly, Always listen to your RWR and MAW. If you hear an alarm, take evasive action immediately.

The biggest improvement of the later Apache variants is the ability to mount the Longbow radar system. This system, if used properly, will help maintain situational awareness.

Additionally, it is important to know when to use flares. Flares are extremely effective against heat-seeking missiles, but useless against any other missiles. It is the responsibility of the Apache pilot to recognize the threat and decide whether to use flares or not. For Apaches with MAW (missile alert warning), there is an option for flares to be dispensed automatically.

Using the Longbow Radar:

The radar of the Apache should be used as a secondary tool when engaging ground targets. As of update 1.99.1.45 when this article was written, the radar is not effective in obtaining target lock for ground vehicles. The AGM114L radar guided hellfire is not in the game, so guidance of hellfires should be done by using the FLIR thermal imaging camera to lase targets. However, the radar is still useful in detecting enemy aircraft. By using the multi-function menu to switch radar mode, the radar will begin to search for air rather than ground targets. Keeping track of enemy aircraft is vital to survival in the Apache, as any plane can make quick work of the Apache if the helicopter is unprepared.

Air to Air (Stinger and Gun):

The Apache is surprisingly potent in air to air combat. Engagements should be conducted primarily through the use of the stinger missile. The stinger is a simple but effective air to air missile. It has an excellent seeker head and can obtain all aspect lock on almost any air target within 3-5km (even propellor aircraft with a low heat signature). However, the stinger can be easily fooled by flares or outmaneuvered by a fast enemy aircraft. The best way to use the stinger against enemy aircraft is when they are heading directly towards you. If fired at the right second, most enemies will struggle to dodge a stinger.

If the enemy gets close, the 30mm autocannon can be extremely effective. The gun will automatically aim with optical lock, so Apache pilots can aim accurately while taking evasive maneuvers.

Close Range Air to Ground (Gun and Rockets):

At close range, the Apache has excellent offensive capability. The 30mm autocannon is incredibly accurate even at surprisingly far distances. This cannon uses a High Explosive Dual Purpose round that can engage lightly armored targets. Rocket pods can also be used, with the CCIP computer helping maintain accuracy even at further distances. Be careful when trying to use the Hellfire missile at close range. It can do a direct attack at closer ranges (rather than it’s usual top attack) but if fired at an odd angle, it may not have time to maneuver onto the target if fired at closer ranges.

The problem with trying to engage at close range is that doing so will put the Apache in huge amounts of danger. Enemy tanks will be able to quickly destroy the Apache with their main guns or anti-aircraft machineguns.

Long Range Air to Ground (Hellfire): 

HellfireTrajectory.png

At longer ranges, the Hellfire missile can be used to full effect. The hellfire will guide on its target as shown in the attached diagram. This is known as top attack. Being that it takes this path to the enemy target, the hellfire can take upward of 30 seconds to reach its target at longer ranges. Do not fire at enemies that are about to move to cover, and make sure to fire multiple missiles at once in order to deal maximum damage. Because the hellfire is laser guided, multiple missiles can be fired at once. They should be fired at intervals of 5-10 seconds, where between missiles the Apache can switch to a new ground target. This will allow for the quick destruction of multiple enemies. This tactic can be incredibly effective. Although the time to target for the most recently fired hellfire is available on the HUD, pilots will have to keep track of all the missiles they have fired by memory and quick calculations.

Combatting enemy anti aircraft vehicles can be a challenge. Always remain in cover and move unpredictably in combat. Use the radar warning receiver to obtain the general direction of enemy AA, and then attack with a Hellfire. An effective strategy is to fire a hellfire, break optical lock to gain cover and avoid counterfire, and then pop back up and get lock again several seconds before the Hellfire hits. This strategy if applied correctly will result in a hit, as the Hellfire is smart enough to begin following the laser designator again once the Apache re-obtains its lock.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Hellfire missile is a great ground attack ATGM
  • Good top speed and manoeuvrable
  • Amazing 30 mm cannon; if ballistic computer is on, you can easily get kills on jets or helicopters from 2 km range


Cons:

  • Hellfire missiles are very difficult to use against moving aerial targets

History

Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the helicopter 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: https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <ref></ref>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <references />. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under === In-game description ===, also if applicable).

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 helicopter;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links


Boeing Aircraft
Aircraft 
Fighters  P-26A-33 · P-26A-34 M2 · P-26B-35
Bombers  B-17E · B-17E/L · B-17G-60-VE
  B-29A-BN
Export  P-26A-34 · B-17G
Captured  ▅B-17E
Helicopters 
Attack  AH-64A · AH-64D
Export / Licensed  AH-64A (GR) · ▃AH-64A Peten · AH-64A Peten · ▅AH-64DJP · ▄AH Mk.1 · AHS
See Also  Tupolev Design Bureau · Westland Helicopters · Fuji Heavy Industries
  For Boeing-built ships, see Boeing Marine Branch

USA helicopters
Attack 
Black Hawk  MH-60L DAP
Choctaw  H-34
Cobra  AH-1F · AH-1G · AH-1Z
SuperCobra  AH-1W
Kiowa  OH-58D
Little Bird  AH-6M
Apache  YAH-64 · AH-64A · ▃AH-64A Peten · AH-64A (GR) · AH-64D
Utility 
Huey  UH-1B · UH-1C · UH-1C XM-30