Difference between revisions of "AS 42"

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{{About
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| about = Italian SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = the tank destroyer version
 +
| link = AS 42/47
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}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=it_as_42_metropolitana
 
|code=it_as_42_metropolitana
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== 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 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.'' -->
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (shortened as just '''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''') is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Italian self-propelled anti-aircraft gun {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.85 "Supersonic"]].
+
The '''Camionetta AS 42 (20 mm Breda Model 35 autocannon)''' is the first variant of the Camionetta Desertica Model 42 light reconnaissance car family. During World War II, the Italian army needed a vehicle that was fast and could cover long distances to carry out reconnaissance missions in North Africa, so the AS 42 was born. Known by two names: Auto Sahariana del 1942 or Camionetta Desertica Mod.42, it was used in various campaigns from North Africa to the Italian Campaign and was also used in the post-war period by the Italian state police, in service from 1942 until 1952. The vehicle also had the possibility of mounting various armaments such as the [[Fucile Controcarri S Mod.39 (20 mm)]], [[47/32 mod.39 (47 mm)]] and [[Breda Mod.35 (20 mm)]].
 +
 
 +
Introduced along with the initial Italian ground tree in [[Update 1.85 "Supersonic"]], the AS 42 has good acceleration and speed, allowing you to flank around enemy armoured vehicles and attempt to destroy them with your 20 mm (much like the [[AS 42/47]]). You can also use AS 42 against enemy air targets, for which it is recommended to use the Grenade mod.35 belt which contains rounds with high-explosive filler. However, with light armour and only 2 crew members, the survivability of the AS 42 is rather limited - try to watch out for any enemies and especially their machine guns.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''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? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 +
 +
The AS 42 lacks any armour and is very vulnerable to attacks from the air. While the sloped 3 mm of armour and 10 mm thick spare wheel on the front may be sufficient against standard machine guns, most heavy machine guns will simply cut right through and knock out the crew.
 +
 +
Though the armour itself is not sufficient against heavy machine guns, it is possible to use the rear engine compartment as armour to protect the crew from heavy machine guns, though this will leave you immobile and unable to return fire. The ammunition compartments at the sides of the vehicle may stop machine guns from penetrating all the way through to knock out the crew, but these have dubious protective qualities in the long run. If HE or HEAT is fired, it will simply not matter and the vehicle will be destroyed by overpressure.
 +
 +
However, due to these extremely thin armour characteristics, standard armour-piercing rounds tend to penetrate straight through with minimal damage. In addition, the gun cannot traverse to fire directly at the back of the AS 42, and in any case the gunner is still fully exposed. Your best protection is going to be hard cover and the element of surprise; don't let the enemy get a shot at you. The AS 42 has 2 crew with ammo located in the flanks of the car. The gun's armour will only protect the gunner in rare cases. The small profile makes it easy to conceal the vehicle in realistic battles, especially from aircraft's sight.
  
 
'''Armour type:'''
 
'''Armour type:'''
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|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
 
 
'''Notes:'''
 
'''Notes:'''
  
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* Storage Boxes and fuel Containers cover much of the flanks in addition to the chassis armour.
 
* Storage Boxes and fuel Containers cover much of the flanks in addition to the chassis armour.
 
* The belly of the car is 3 mm thick.
 
* The belly of the car is 3 mm thick.
−
 
−
The {{PAGENAME}} lacks in armour and is very vulnerable to attacks from the air. While the sloped 3 mm of armour may be sufficient against standard machine guns, most heavy machine guns are able to shred this vehicle and as such it is not recommended to engage in slugging matches.
 
−
 
−
Though the armour itself is not sufficient against heavy machine guns, it is possible to use the rear engine compartment as armour to protect the crew from the heavy machine guns projectiles. The ammunition compartments at the sides of the vehicle may stop machine guns from penetrating all the way through to harm the crew, but these have dubious protection values in the long run. However, due to these extreme thin armour thickness, standard armour-piercing rounds tend to penetrate straight through with minimal damage.
 
−
 
−
The {{PAGENAME}} has 2 crew with ammo located in the flanks of the car. In rare cases, the gun's armour can protect the gunner.
 
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 +
 +
The car has very high mobility with speeds exceeding 80 km/h on concrete and 35 km/h offroad. The 4x2 configuration severely reduces the AS 42's effectiveness on soft terrain (snow, mud). The AS 42 cannot turn on the spot, and is best used on roads of sufficient width or open, hilly terrain.
  
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=156|rbMinHp=97}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=156|rbMinHp=97}}
−
 
−
The tank has very high mobility with speeds exceeding 80 km/h on concrete and 35 km/h offroad.
 
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|Breda Mod.35 (20 mm)}}
 
{{main|Breda Mod.35 (20 mm)}}
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 +
Your sole armament is a 20 mm autocannon. It is a longer-barreled version of the 20 mm autocannon found on the L6/40 and AB 41, with a bigger magazine capacity, shorter reload time, and similar belt composition. For an anti-aircraft role, the gun has an inferior magazine size and rate of fire. In addition, you don't have a 360° traverse arc, something that is detrimental when engaging aircraft or enemy tanks.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - The belt composition means that 75% of the shells (HEFI-T*) are useless against tanks. However, this belt is reliable against open-topped or lightly armoured targets like SPAA vehicles.
 
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - The belt composition means that 75% of the shells (HEFI-T*) are useless against tanks. However, this belt is reliable against open-topped or lightly armoured targets like SPAA vehicles.
  
−
* '''Granata mod.35:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - This belt does little damage against armoured targets and should be used especially against aircraft or open-topped vehicles. The high-explosive filler is deadly to crew members.
+
* '''Granata mod.35:''' {{Annotation|HEFI-T*|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}} - This belt does little damage against armoured targets and should be used especially against aircraft or open-topped vehicles. The high-explosive filler is effective against crew members.
  
 
* '''Perforante mod.35:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}} - This belt offers a good transition from the Default to the PzGr 40 belt. The round offers decent damage against lightly armoured tanks, especially at close range. Due to lack of high-explosive filler, however, it is better to focus on the PzGr 40 belt to maximize penetration power.
 
* '''Perforante mod.35:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}} - This belt offers a good transition from the Default to the PzGr 40 belt. The round offers decent damage against lightly armoured tanks, especially at close range. Due to lack of high-explosive filler, however, it is better to focus on the PzGr 40 belt to maximize penetration power.
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* '''PzGr 40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}} - Probably the belt with the best penetrating shell for the vehicle. While the damage effects post-penetration can be quite poor, the rapid fire from the autocannon can remedy this problem by following up quickly with another penetrating shot. In close combat, these shells should be used against modules and crew member to make the most of each shell. Against angled armour, however, the HVAP ammo may not be very effective.
 
* '''PzGr 40:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}} - Probably the belt with the best penetrating shell for the vehicle. While the damage effects post-penetration can be quite poor, the rapid fire from the autocannon can remedy this problem by following up quickly with another penetrating shot. In close combat, these shells should be used against modules and crew member to make the most of each shell. Against angled armour, however, the HVAP ammo may not be very effective.
  
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:Breda Mod.35 (20 mm)/Ammunition|HEFI-T*, API-T, HVAP-T}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belt
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
| Default || API-T/HEFI-T* || 38 || 36 || 27 || 19 || 14 || 10
 
−
|-
 
−
| Granata mod.35 || HEFI-T || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2
 
−
|-
 
−
| Perforante mod.35 || API-T || 38 || 36 || 27 || 19 || 14 || 10
 
−
|-
 
−
| PzGr 40 || HVAP-T/API-T || 64 || 63 || 27 || 19 || 14 || 10
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Belt details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Belt
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| Granata mod.35 || HEFI-T* || 830 || 0.14 || 0 || 0.1 || 3 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Perforante mod.35 || API-T || 832 || 0.14 || 1.2 || 9 || 1.7 || 47° || 60° || 65°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 +
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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! 8th<br>rack<br>empty
 
! 8th<br>rack<br>empty
 
! 9th<br>rack<br>empty
 
! 9th<br>rack<br>empty
 +
|-
 +
| '''100''' || 94&nbsp;''(+6)'' || 88&nbsp;''(+12)'' || 82&nbsp;''(+18)'' || 76&nbsp;''(+24)'' || 70&nbsp;''(+30)'' || 64&nbsp;''(+36)'' || 58&nbsp;''(+42)'' || 52&nbsp;''(+48)'' || 46&nbsp;''(+54)''
 +
|-
 
! 10th<br>rack<br>empty
 
! 10th<br>rack<br>empty
 
! 11th<br>rack<br>empty
 
! 11th<br>rack<br>empty
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! 17th<br>rack<br>empty
 
! 17th<br>rack<br>empty
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 +
!
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''100''' || 94&nbsp;''(+6)'' || 88&nbsp;''(+12)'' || 82&nbsp;''(+18)'' || 76&nbsp;''(+24)'' || 70&nbsp;''(+30)'' || 64&nbsp;''(+36)'' || 58&nbsp;''(+42)'' || 52&nbsp;''(+48)'' || 46&nbsp;''(+54)'' || 40&nbsp;''(+60)'' || 34&nbsp;''(+66)'' || 28_&nbsp;''(+72)'' || 22&nbsp;''(+78)'' || 16&nbsp;''(+84)'' || 10&nbsp;''(+90)'' || 4&nbsp;''(+96)'' || 0&nbsp;''(+100)'' || Yes
+
| 40&nbsp;''(+60)'' || 34&nbsp;''(+66)'' || 28&nbsp;''(+72)'' || 22&nbsp;''(+78)'' || 16&nbsp;''(+84)'' || 10&nbsp;''(+90)'' || 4&nbsp;''(+96)'' || 0&nbsp;''(+100)'' || Yes
 +
!
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 
 
'''Notes''':
 
'''Notes''':
  
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;Combat tactics
 
;Combat tactics
  
−
The main role of the {{PAGENAME}} is as an anti-air asset. Position the vehicle in an open space to be able to detect aircraft from a distance, usually near your spawn point. You can move forward and stay close to your teammates to offer the best AA support but you'll then become target to enemy tanks (especially with artillery strikes and MG fire). Engage approaching aircraft only under 1,000 m to increase your chances of hitting (ideal distance is 500-700 m) and avoid being detected too early. Your fire rate is poor for an AA gun so you have to shoot precisely and make every shot count. Your vehicle's protection is non-existent: plan to have an obstacle nearby you can use as cover (building, rock formation, etc).
+
The main roles of the AS 42 are as an SPAA and as a scout car. When playing as an SPAA, position the vehicle in an open space to be able to detect aircraft from a distance, usually near your spawn point. You can move forward and stay close to your teammates to offer the best AA support, but be careful not to reveal yourself to enemy tanks. Engage approaching aircraft only under 1,000 m to increase your chances of hitting, and ideally within 500-700 m. Avoid being detected too early: your fire rate and clip size is poor for an AA gun, so you'll have to shoot precisely and make every shot count. Your vehicle's protection is non-existent: plan to have an obstacle nearby you can use as cover, and have an escape route ready.
  
−
You can also play as a scout car on some maps: use your speed to flank enemy forces and ambush them. Retreat and relocate after destroying an enemy. Avoid frontal engagements at all cost as your vehicle and your crew are fully unprotected. Keep in mind that you have good mobility on hard terrain (solid ground, roads, etc.) but not on soft terrain (mud, sand, snow) because of your tires. The big turn radius of the {{PAGENAME}} also prevents it from sneaking through narrow passages in urban maps. Drive precisely: any obstacle will immobilize you very quickly if you don't pay attention and your mobility is key to your survival in this role.
+
You can also play as a scout car on some maps: use your speed to flank enemy forces and ambush them. After ambushing, retreat and relocate after destroying an enemy. Avoid frontal engagements at all costs for the best penetration, and because your vehicle and crew are fully unprotected. Keep in mind that you have good mobility on hard terrain (solid ground, roads, etc.) but not on soft terrain (mud, sand, snow) because of your tires. The big turn radius of the {{PAGENAME}} also prevents it from sneaking through narrow passages in urban maps. Drive precisely: any obstacle will immobilize you very quickly if you don't pay attention and your mobility is key to your survival in this role.
  
 
;Notable enemies
 
;Notable enemies
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* Strafing planes. The biggest threat is enemy aircraft, as even a 7.62 mm MG can kill your SPAA in one burst.
 
* Strafing planes. The biggest threat is enemy aircraft, as even a 7.62 mm MG can kill your SPAA in one burst.
 
* Vehicles equipped with heavy machine guns. They will destroy you from 1 km distance in a heartbeat.
 
* Vehicles equipped with heavy machine guns. They will destroy you from 1 km distance in a heartbeat.
−
* Tanks firing HEAT or HE shells. The blast effect is deadly to your already limited and unprotected crew.
+
* Tanks firing HEAT or HE shells. The blast effect will knock out your already limited and unprotected crew.
 
* Heavily armoured tanks that are immune to your gun, even if you catch them by surprise.
 
* Heavily armoured tanks that are immune to your gun, even if you catch them by surprise.
  
 
;How to defeat a {{PAGENAME}}
 
;How to defeat a {{PAGENAME}}
  
−
Being a vehicle without any armour, it remains a vehicle easy to destroy: the 2 quickest ways to deal with the {{PAGENAME}} are MG/autocannons and HEAT/HE projectiles. But any shell with explosive filler will do.
+
Being a vehicle without any armour, it remains a vehicle easy to destroy: the 2 quickest ways to deal with the {{PAGENAME}} are machine guns/autocannons and HEAT/HE projectiles. But any shell with explosive filler will do.
 
Avoid close quarters and engage from long distance to increase your armour advantage while decreasing the {{PAGENAME}}'s firepower.
 
Avoid close quarters and engage from long distance to increase your armour advantage while decreasing the {{PAGENAME}}'s firepower.
−
You can also force your opponent to play on a terrain hindering its mobility (mud, snow, sand) to negate its main advantage. Aim for the driver or the engine to immobilize it, meaning almost certain death for a barely protected vehicle.
+
You can also force your opponent to play on a terrain hindering its mobility (mud, snow, sand) to negate its main advantage. Aim for the driver or the engine to immobilize it, then finish it off with a follow up shot or machine gun fire.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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* Virtually no protection at all, even rifle rounds will penetrate the armour
 
* Virtually no protection at all, even rifle rounds will penetrate the armour
 
* Only has two crew members
 
* Only has two crew members
−
* Crew is exposed  
+
* Crew is exposed
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the 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></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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the 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></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).'' -->
  
−
The AS (Autosahariana) 42 was derived from the AB 41 armoured car. It was, however, unarmoured and did not have the rear driver position. Designed for long-range reconnaissance in North Africa, it had a cross country range of almost 500 miles (800 km). It was also known as the Camionetta Desertica (Desert Weapons Carrier) mod. 42, or "la Sahariana" (the Saharan). The main armament varied: 20 mm anti-aircraft cannons, 20 mm anti-tank rifles, and machine guns were common alternatives. About 200 were built and saw service in North Africa, Sicily and Italy. After the armistice, some continued in use with Fascist Italian forces and Germany, including on the Eastern Front, and in the Ardennes in 1944-5.
+
The AS (Autosahariana) 42 was derived from the AB 41 armoured car. It was, however, unarmoured and did not have the rear driver position. Designed for long-range reconnaissance in North Africa, it had a cross country range of almost 500 miles (800 km). It was also known as the Camionetta Desertica (Desert Weapons Carrier) mod. 42, or "la Sahariana" (the Saharan). The main armament varied: 20 mm anti-aircraft cannons, 20 mm anti-tank rifles, and machine guns were common alternatives. For heavier firepower, some were fitted with a Breda M35 47 mm anti-tank gun, represented by the [[AS 42/47]]. About 200 were built and saw service in North Africa, Sicily and Italy. After the armistice, some continued in use with Fascist Italian forces and Germany, including on the Eastern Front, and in the Ardennes in 1944-5.
 +
 
 +
Post-war, about a dozen survivors, painted amaranth red and disarmed, were used by the ''Polizia di Stato'' in Udine and Bologna.<ref>https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SPA-Viberti_AS.42</ref>
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
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;Videos
 
;Videos
−
{{Youtube-gallery|ND8CwYH8-io|'''{{PAGENAME}} Review: Great with the CR42 as backup! Not so much at taking hits...''' - ''Joseph 2000''|nR4lecy5CBA|'''Camionetta SPA-Viberti AS42 Light Italian Truck - The Italian Desert Raider''' - ''Tanks Encyclopedia''}}
+
{{Youtube-gallery|ND8CwYH8-io|'''AS42 Review: Great with the CR42 as backup! Not so much at taking hits...''' - ''Joseph 2000''|nR4lecy5CBA|'''Camionetta SPA-Viberti AS42 Light Italian Truck - The Italian Desert Raider''' - ''Tanks Encyclopedia''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 221: Line 200:
  
 
;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
 
;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
 +
 
* [[Type 94]]
 
* [[Type 94]]
 
* [[Flakpanzer I]]
 
* [[Flakpanzer I]]
Line 232: Line 212:
 
* [[wikipedia:SPA-Viberti_AS.42|[Wikipedia] SPA-Viberti AS.42]]
 
* [[wikipedia:SPA-Viberti_AS.42|[Wikipedia] SPA-Viberti AS.42]]
 
* [https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/italy/Camioneta_AS-42_Sahariana.php <nowiki>[Tanks Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Camionetta SPA-Viberti AS42]
 
* [https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2/italy/Camioneta_AS-42_Sahariana.php <nowiki>[Tanks Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Camionetta SPA-Viberti AS42]
 +
 +
=== References ===
 +
<references />
  
 
{{Italy anti-aircraft vehicles}}
 
{{Italy anti-aircraft vehicles}}
 
[[Category:Wheeled ground vehicles]]
 
[[Category:Wheeled ground vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 23:31, 23 September 2023

RANK 5 FRANCE
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This page is about the Italian SPAA AS 42. For the tank destroyer version, see AS 42/47.
AS 42
it_as_42_metropolitana.png
GarageImage AS 42.jpg
ArtImage AS 42.png
AS 42
Italy flag.png Italy
I Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
1.3 1.3 1.3
Class:
Research:2 900 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:700 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Camionetta AS 42 (20 mm Breda Model 35 autocannon) is the first variant of the Camionetta Desertica Model 42 light reconnaissance car family. During World War II, the Italian army needed a vehicle that was fast and could cover long distances to carry out reconnaissance missions in North Africa, so the AS 42 was born. Known by two names: Auto Sahariana del 1942 or Camionetta Desertica Mod.42, it was used in various campaigns from North Africa to the Italian Campaign and was also used in the post-war period by the Italian state police, in service from 1942 until 1952. The vehicle also had the possibility of mounting various armaments such as the Fucile Controcarri S Mod.39 (20 mm), 47/32 mod.39 (47 mm) and Breda Mod.35 (20 mm).

Introduced along with the initial Italian ground tree in Update 1.85 "Supersonic", the AS 42 has good acceleration and speed, allowing you to flank around enemy armoured vehicles and attempt to destroy them with your 20 mm (much like the AS 42/47). You can also use AS 42 against enemy air targets, for which it is recommended to use the Grenade mod.35 belt which contains rounds with high-explosive filler. However, with light armour and only 2 crew members, the survivability of the AS 42 is rather limited - try to watch out for any enemies and especially their machine guns.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull0 / 0 / 0
Turret0 / 0 / 0
Crew2 people
Visibility58 %

The AS 42 lacks any armour and is very vulnerable to attacks from the air. While the sloped 3 mm of armour and 10 mm thick spare wheel on the front may be sufficient against standard machine guns, most heavy machine guns will simply cut right through and knock out the crew.

Though the armour itself is not sufficient against heavy machine guns, it is possible to use the rear engine compartment as armour to protect the crew from heavy machine guns, though this will leave you immobile and unable to return fire. The ammunition compartments at the sides of the vehicle may stop machine guns from penetrating all the way through to knock out the crew, but these have dubious protective qualities in the long run. If HE or HEAT is fired, it will simply not matter and the vehicle will be destroyed by overpressure.

However, due to these extremely thin armour characteristics, standard armour-piercing rounds tend to penetrate straight through with minimal damage. In addition, the gun cannot traverse to fire directly at the back of the AS 42, and in any case the gunner is still fully exposed. Your best protection is going to be hard cover and the element of surprise; don't let the enemy get a shot at you. The AS 42 has 2 crew with ammo located in the flanks of the car. The gun's armour will only protect the gunner in rare cases. The small profile makes it easy to conceal the vehicle in realistic battles, especially from aircraft's sight.

Armour type:

  • Structural steel (chassis, gun breech, gun mount)
  • Wheel (tires & spares)
  • Gun Steel (cannon barrel)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Chassis 3 mm
Gun mount 150 mm Gun Breech
20 mm Gunner's Seat
20 mm Elevation and Traverse Mechanisms 		N/A

Notes:

  • Tires are 10 mm thick. * There is a spare tire on the front and on the rear of the vehicle.
  • Storage boxes, fuel containers and fenders are 3 mm thick.
  • Storage Boxes and fuel Containers cover much of the flanks in addition to the chassis armour.
  • The belly of the car is 3 mm thick.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB92 / 24 km/h
RB and SB85 / 22 km/h
Number of gears6 forward
4 back
Weight6.0 t
Engine power
AB210 hp
RB and SB110 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB35.0 hp/t
RB and SB18.3 hp/t

The car has very high mobility with speeds exceeding 80 km/h on concrete and 35 km/h offroad. The 4x2 configuration severely reduces the AS 42's effectiveness on soft terrain (snow, mud). The AS 42 cannot turn on the spot, and is best used on roads of sufficient width or open, hilly terrain.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 92 24 6 156 210 26 35
Realistic 85 22 97 110 16.17 18.33

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB101 → 130 Sl icon.png
RB89 → 115 Sl icon.png
SB138 → 178 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications2 985 Rp icon.png
905 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost190 Ge icon.png
Crew training200 Sl icon.png
Experts1 000 Sl icon.png
Aces20 Ge icon.png
Research Aces96 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
10 / 10 / 20 % Sl icon.png
100 / 100 / 100 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new wheels.png
Tires
Research:
150 Rp icon.png
Cost:
45 Sl icon.png
45 Ge icon.png
Mods new car suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
135 Rp icon.png
Cost:
40 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
135 Rp icon.png
Cost:
40 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
250 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
240 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
240 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
150 Rp icon.png
Cost:
45 Sl icon.png
45 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
135 Rp icon.png
Cost:
40 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement it.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
250 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
150 Rp icon.png
Cost:
45 Sl icon.png
45 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
20mm_Breda_HE_ammo_pack
Research:
150 Rp icon.png
Cost:
45 Sl icon.png
45 Ge icon.png
Mods aa cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
135 Rp icon.png
Cost:
40 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
20mm_Breda_APHE_ammo_pack
Research:
135 Rp icon.png
Cost:
40 Sl icon.png
40 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
250 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
240 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
20mm_kwk_30_APCR_ammo_pack
Research:
240 Rp icon.png
Cost:
75 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Main armament

20 mm Breda Mod.35 cannon
Ammunition1 200 rounds
Belt capacity12 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
3.9 → 3.0 s
Fire rate240 shots/min
Vertical guidance-10° / 80°
Horizontal guidance-150° / 150°
Main article: Breda Mod.35 (20 mm)

Your sole armament is a 20 mm autocannon. It is a longer-barreled version of the 20 mm autocannon found on the L6/40 and AB 41, with a bigger magazine capacity, shorter reload time, and similar belt composition. For an anti-aircraft role, the gun has an inferior magazine size and rate of fire. In addition, you don't have a 360° traverse arc, something that is detrimental when engaging aircraft or enemy tanks.

20 mm Breda Mod.35 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 1,200 (12) 240 -10°/+90° ±150° N/A 30.8 42.7 51.8 57.3 60.9 3.90 3.45 3.18 3.00
Realistic 20.8 24.5 29.8 32.9 35.0

Ammunition

  • Default: API-T · HEFI-T* · HEFI-T* · HEFI-T* - The belt composition means that 75% of the shells (HEFI-T*) are useless against tanks. However, this belt is reliable against open-topped or lightly armoured targets like SPAA vehicles.
  • Granata mod.35: HEFI-T* - This belt does little damage against armoured targets and should be used especially against aircraft or open-topped vehicles. The high-explosive filler is effective against crew members.
  • Perforante mod.35: API-T - This belt offers a good transition from the Default to the PzGr 40 belt. The round offers decent damage against lightly armoured tanks, especially at close range. Due to lack of high-explosive filler, however, it is better to focus on the PzGr 40 belt to maximize penetration power.
  • PzGr 40: HVAP-T · API-T - Probably the belt with the best penetrating shell for the vehicle. While the damage effects post-penetration can be quite poor, the rapid fire from the autocannon can remedy this problem by following up quickly with another penetrating shot. In close combat, these shells should be used against modules and crew member to make the most of each shell. Against angled armour, however, the HVAP ammo may not be very effective.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
HEFI-T* 5 5 4 3 2 2
API-T 38 36 27 19 14 10
HVAP-T 48 45 31 20 13 8
Shell details
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
HEFI-T* 830 0.14 0.04 0.1 3 79° 80° 81°
API-T 832 0.14 1.2 9 1.7 47° 60° 65°
HVAP-T 1,050 0.1 - - - 66° 70° 72°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the AS 42
Full
ammo 		1st
rack
empty 		2nd
rack
empty 		3rd
rack
empty 		4th
rack
empty 		5th
rack
empty 		6th
rack
empty 		7th
rack
empty 		8th
rack
empty 		9th
rack
empty
100 94 (+6) 88 (+12) 82 (+18) 76 (+24) 70 (+30) 64 (+36) 58 (+42) 52 (+48) 46 (+54)
10th
rack
empty 		11th
rack
empty 		12th
rack
empty 		13th
rack
empty 		14th
rack
empty 		15th
rack
empty 		16th
rack
empty 		17th
rack
empty 		Visual
discrepancy
40 (+60) 34 (+66) 28 (+72) 22 (+78) 16 (+84) 10 (+90) 4 (+96) 0 (+100) Yes

Notes:

  • The visual discrepancy is the rack 17. It contains 4 clips whereas only one is modeled.
  • Racks 1 to 16 contain 6 clips each.
  • Clips are modeled by sets of 2 and disappear from the rack after you've fired/loaded both clips in the set.

Usage in battles

Combat tactics

The main roles of the AS 42 are as an SPAA and as a scout car. When playing as an SPAA, position the vehicle in an open space to be able to detect aircraft from a distance, usually near your spawn point. You can move forward and stay close to your teammates to offer the best AA support, but be careful not to reveal yourself to enemy tanks. Engage approaching aircraft only under 1,000 m to increase your chances of hitting, and ideally within 500-700 m. Avoid being detected too early: your fire rate and clip size is poor for an AA gun, so you'll have to shoot precisely and make every shot count. Your vehicle's protection is non-existent: plan to have an obstacle nearby you can use as cover, and have an escape route ready.

You can also play as a scout car on some maps: use your speed to flank enemy forces and ambush them. After ambushing, retreat and relocate after destroying an enemy. Avoid frontal engagements at all costs for the best penetration, and because your vehicle and crew are fully unprotected. Keep in mind that you have good mobility on hard terrain (solid ground, roads, etc.) but not on soft terrain (mud, sand, snow) because of your tires. The big turn radius of the AS 42 also prevents it from sneaking through narrow passages in urban maps. Drive precisely: any obstacle will immobilize you very quickly if you don't pay attention and your mobility is key to your survival in this role.

Notable enemies

Pretty much any enemy can destroy the AS 42 in seconds. The most lethal enemies are:

  • Strafing planes. The biggest threat is enemy aircraft, as even a 7.62 mm MG can kill your SPAA in one burst.
  • Vehicles equipped with heavy machine guns. They will destroy you from 1 km distance in a heartbeat.
  • Tanks firing HEAT or HE shells. The blast effect will knock out your already limited and unprotected crew.
  • Heavily armoured tanks that are immune to your gun, even if you catch them by surprise.
How to defeat a AS 42

Being a vehicle without any armour, it remains a vehicle easy to destroy: the 2 quickest ways to deal with the AS 42 are machine guns/autocannons and HEAT/HE projectiles. But any shell with explosive filler will do. Avoid close quarters and engage from long distance to increase your armour advantage while decreasing the AS 42's firepower. You can also force your opponent to play on a terrain hindering its mobility (mud, snow, sand) to negate its main advantage. Aim for the driver or the engine to immobilize it, then finish it off with a follow up shot or machine gun fire.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High top speed
  • Access to PzGr 40 rounds
  • Sloped frontal armour, may deflect some rounds
  • High penetration for the 20 mm cannon
  • Small profile helps when flanking the enemy

Cons:

  • Small magazine for SPAA
  • Virtually no protection at all, even rifle rounds will penetrate the armour
  • Only has two crew members
  • Crew is exposed

History

The AS (Autosahariana) 42 was derived from the AB 41 armoured car. It was, however, unarmoured and did not have the rear driver position. Designed for long-range reconnaissance in North Africa, it had a cross country range of almost 500 miles (800 km). It was also known as the Camionetta Desertica (Desert Weapons Carrier) mod. 42, or "la Sahariana" (the Saharan). The main armament varied: 20 mm anti-aircraft cannons, 20 mm anti-tank rifles, and machine guns were common alternatives. For heavier firepower, some were fitted with a Breda M35 47 mm anti-tank gun, represented by the AS 42/47. About 200 were built and saw service in North Africa, Sicily and Italy. After the armistice, some continued in use with Fascist Italian forces and Germany, including on the Eastern Front, and in the Ardennes in 1944-5.

Post-war, about a dozen survivors, painted amaranth red and disarmed, were used by the Polizia di Stato in Udine and Bologna.[1]

Media

Skins
Videos
AS42 Review: Great with the CR42 as backup! Not so much at taking hits... - Joseph 2000
Camionetta SPA-Viberti AS42 Light Italian Truck - The Italian Desert Raider - Tanks Encyclopedia

See also

Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links

References

  1. ↑ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/SPA-Viberti_AS.42


Italy anti-aircraft vehicles
R3 Capraia  R3 T20 FA-HS
SIDAM 25  SIDAM 25 · SIDAM 25 (Mistral)
Wheeled  AS 42 · CM52
Tracked  M42 Contraereo · Leopard 40/70 · OTOMATIC
Hungary  ◔ZSU-57-2 · ◔ZSU-23-4

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