Difference between revisions of "A-35B (France)"

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{{Specs-Card|code=a-35b}}
+
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=a-35b
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 +
}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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_A-35B.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The A-35B had its beginnings in the Vultee Model 72 in 1940. It was primarily developed for the French Air Force as a dive-bomber but the fall of France put a stop to that. The Model 72 was a unique design for dive bombers as the wings prevent the aircraft from straying off target during a dive-bombing run. After the Pearl Harbor attack, the US acquired many A-31s and Model 72s and later birthed the A-35 “Vengeance”. The A-35 had a better engine and other changes for flight performance. France would later receive almost 70 A-35A/Bs during the lend-lease program.
−
{{Break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} French dive bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.73 "Vive la France"]].
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.73 "Vive la France"]], the '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a fairly decent ground striker. It has three different loadouts for bombs with the best one being the four 500 lb bomb loadout. The Vengeance also has six M2 Browning machine guns with 375 rounds per gun; which means that the A-35B has an impressive 30 seconds of trigger time. This is more than enough to take out light pillboxes and soft ground targets. In addition, the A-35B comes armoured with three steel plates that protect the crew and oil cooling system. Unfortunately, the A-35B lacks in defensive fire with only a single 12.7 mm turret in the rear.  
  
 
== 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.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 3,650 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 3,650 m)
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| 466 || 448 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 30.6 || 33.4 || colspan="2" | 5.2 || rowspan="2" | 307
+
| 466 || 448 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 30.6 || 33.4 || 5.2 || 5.2 || rowspan="2" | 307
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| 506 || 485 || 27.8 || 29.0 || 10.3 || 7.5
+
| 507 || 485 || 27.8 || 29.0 || 10.3 || 7.5
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Details ====
 
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="6" | Features
+
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
 
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
Line 40: Line 44:
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
! colspan="7" | Limits
Line 51: Line 55:
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || 430 || 290 || 278 || ~13 || ~5
+
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 369 || 290 || 278 || ~15 || ~6
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 62: Line 66:
 
|-
 
|-
 
| < 257 || < 350 || < 380 || > 320
 
| < 257 || < 350 || < 380 || > 320
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! Compressor
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
! Setting 1
 
−
| 1,676 m || 1,500 hp || 1,672 hp
 
−
|-
 
−
! Setting 2
 
−
| 4,115 m || 1,350 hp || 1,430 hp
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
 
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of pilot.
 
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of pilot.
 
* 12.7 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.
 
* 12.7 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.
 
* 6.35 mm Steel plate behind oil cooling system.
 
* 6.35 mm Steel plate behind oil cooling system.
 
* 12.7 mm Steel plate in front of dorsal gunner.
 
* 12.7 mm Steel plate in front of dorsal gunner.
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}
 
{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 +
 
* 6 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (375 rpg = 2,250 total)
 
* 6 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (375 rpg = 2,250 total)
  
Line 98: Line 95:
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
{{main|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)}}
 
{{main|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 
* 4 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
 
* 4 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
 
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb (1,000 lb total)
 
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb (1,000 lb total)
 +
 +
Both loads with 500 lb bombs contain in total a higher TNT equivalent than a single 1,000 lb bomb. This makes that single 1,000 lb bomb suitable only against heavily armored targets in naval mode. Against most of the targets (including destroyers and strategic bases) a multi-bomb load outs are superior. An alternative would be to use the {{Specs-Link|f6f-5_france}} (BR {{#unit:f6f-5_france|br}}), the {{Specs-Link|sb2c_5_france}} (BR {{#unit:sb2c_5_france|br}}), or the {{Specs-Link|douglas_ad_4_france}} (BR {{#unit:douglas_ad_4_france|br}}) instead, as they all offer comparable or better loads.
  
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}
 
{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 +
 
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, dorsal turret (400 rpg)
 
* 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, dorsal turret (400 rpg)
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
−
The A-35B is best used as a "swing fighter", switching between ground targets and slow, lumbering air targets as your bombs get used up. The typical American 6 x 12.7 mm MG armament allows this aircraft to hit hard at targets that sit still long enough for you to get a bead on them.
+
The A-35B is designed as a ground attack aircraft, and should be played as such. The aircraft is relatively slow, rather large, and not particularly manoeuvrable. Thus, play the aircraft like a ground attacker. However, it does have some perks which should be utilized to the maximum.
 +
 
 +
'''Air Battles:'''
 +
 
 +
The A-35 has a nominal bomb load of up to 2,000 lbs split over four 500 lb bombs. This isn't the greatest bomb load by any means, but can get the job done against lighter targets. The 500 lb bombs don't have a particularly large blast radius, which make it difficult to destroy harder targets such as tanks and pillboxes. However, the aircraft has dive brakes, meaning that it is capable of pinpoint dive-bombing against the enemy. When at a decent altitude (1,500-2,000 m above the target), drop into a near vertical dive, deploy airbrakes, and put the target slightly above the cockpit. Then, at ~500 m above the target, drop the bomb(s) and pull out. If this is done accurately, it can ensure a direct hit or kill against ground targets. The 1,000 lb bomb is usually more suited for this bombing role, since it has a larger blast radius. However, the downside of the larger bomb is that you only have a single bomb, and a single drop.
 +
 
 +
The second advantage the A-35 has for air battles are its six heavy 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns. While the A-35 doesn't get access to the later, more powerful M2 Brownings, these machine guns are very suited to ripping ground and air targets apart. Notably, they are quite good at destroying light pillboxes. Against pillboxes, the universal or stealth belt is usually the most effective, as they contain the most M8 AP-I incendiary tracer bullets which are extremely effective against pillboxes. Note that the pillboxes will be destroyed faster if shot at from the top - in this mode, perform a diving attack (30-40 degrees) on the pillbox, destroy it, and then pull up and strike another target. If the pillbox isn't destroyed, come in for another strafing run, Finally, note that the 12.7 mm guns can only destroy light pillboxes - regular pillboxes are impervious to all gunfire, and can only be destroyed with bombs.
 +
 
 +
'''Ground Battles:'''
 +
 
 +
The A-35 is also well-suited for ground battles where it can make use of its payload. Again, the aforementioned dive bombing tactic can be used against enemy tanks, especially clustered vehicles at a capture point, or other choke point. The 1,000 lb bomb is almost always the best option against ground targets, as it packs the largest punch. While this may limit the amount of targets you can hit in a single sortie, the chances of getting one or more kills is much greater. Finally, don't underestimate the power of your machine guns! They can penetrate the tops of most tanks at the A-35's BR (the Ground Targets belt is the best, with 26 mm of penetration), and can obviously lay waste to any unarmoured SPGs or SPAAs.
 +
 
 +
'''Air-to-air and defensive flying:'''
 +
 
 +
If being attacked by any fighters, the A-35 gets into a sticky position. Its manoeuvrability and top speed are both abysmal for its BR, making it a sitting duck for any pursuing aircraft. Thus, '''do not''' attempt to engage any fighters in a 1-on-1, as it will result in a quick demise. Instead, lead the enemies toward friendly fighters, as well as onto your six o'clock as you have a very potent tail gunner. The tail gunner is armed with another 12.7 mm Browning gun, which is great for pilot snipes and setting engines on fire. Thus, bait them onto your tail, where you can quickly pilot-snipe them and remove the threat. It is worth noting that your six 12.7 mm Brownings are very good at setting things on fire; however, do not engage any other aircraft unless they are noticeably more sluggish than you.
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
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|-
 
|-
 
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
 
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! Survivability
 
−
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 12 mm
 
−
| SBC-17
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
| New 12 mm MGs
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Turret 12 mm
 
−
| LBC-25
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
|
 
−
| Engine injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| New 12 mm MGs (turret)
 
−
|
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
* Manoeuvrable at low speeds
+
 
−
* Has dive brakes
+
* Gets an airspawn allowing it to reach the battlefield faster
 +
* Has dive brakes which are highly useful for dive-bombing
 +
* Has a decent payload for an aircraft of its size
 +
* Heavy forward armament of six 12.7 mm machine guns, as well as an additional 12.7 mm machine gun in the rear
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
* Large and slow
+
 
−
* Small payload
+
* Large and slow - fighters will have no trouble catching up!
 +
* Payload is constrained to 500 lb bombs if carrying max bomb load, and no bombs over 1,000 lbs are available
 +
* Manoeuvrability, especially roll rate, is absolutely horrid compared to fighters and even some other attackers
  
 
== History ==
 
== 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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
−
At the beginning of the 1930s, the American company Vultee was developing a concept for a strike aircraft capable of effectively hitting ground targets, light vehicles and enemy infantry from low altitudes. Effective actions by Germany’s Ju-87 dive bombers in Europe served as a basis for the creation of a concept for the American A-31 Vengeance, a strike dive bomber with a machine gun battery in its wings. This new addition immediately caught the attention of the British delegation, which happened to be searching for a design like the Stuka to aid in the fight against Germany. In the course of modernization, the A-31 received a new 1700 hp engine and strengthened armament of five, and then seven high-caliber Browning machine guns (six in the wings and one more for defense against attacks from the rear), and a bomb load of up to 2000 pounds. Modernized version got new designation - Vultee A-35. In spite of a large export order, the Vengeance also served in the American air force and navy, and the reviews about it were contradictory. For the war in Europe, the bomber turned out to be ill-prepared. Its low speed, large silhouette and need to descend to drop its bombs made it very vulnerable to enemy flak cannons and fighters. However, in the Pacific Theater the vehicle performed well. The Japanese had far fewer anti-aircraft defenses, and the Vengeance served as an attack aircraft, a bomber and a submarine hunter.
+
At the beginning of the 1930s, the American company Vultee was developing a concept for a strike aircraft capable of effectively hitting ground targets, light vehicles and enemy infantry from low altitudes. Effective actions by Germany's Ju-87 dive bombers in Europe served as a basis for the creation of a concept for the American A-31 Vengeance, a strike dive bomber with a machine gun battery in its wings. This new addition immediately caught the attention of the British delegation, which happened to be searching for a design like the Stuka to aid in the fight against Germany. In the course of modernization, the A-31 received a new 1,700 hp engine and strengthened armament of five, and then seven high-calibre Browning machine guns (six in the wings and one more for defense against attacks from the rear), and a bomb load of up to 2,000 pounds. Modernized version got new designation - Vultee A-35. In spite of a large export order, the Vengeance also served in the American air force and navy, and the reviews about it were contradictory. For the war in Europe, the bomber turned out to be ill-prepared. Its low speed, large silhouette and need to descend to drop its bombs made it very vulnerable to enemy flak cannons and fighters. However, in the Pacific Theater the vehicle performed well. The Japanese had far fewer anti-aircraft defenses, and the Vengeance served as an attack aircraft, a bomber and a submarine hunter.
  
 
Nonetheless, the main operators of the A-35 were foreigners. Several squadrons in the British Air Force were equipped with these dive bombers. The aircraft was delivered to Australia and Brazil, and it served in the Free French Army in Africa.
 
Nonetheless, the main operators of the A-35 were foreigners. Several squadrons in the British Air Force were equipped with these dive bombers. The aircraft was delivered to Australia and Brazil, and it served in the Free French Army in Africa.
Line 191: Line 176:
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=a-35b Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|d27p2Kg06MA|'''The Shooting Range #302''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:28 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|N-EazLEFaFg|'''The Shooting Range #71''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:13 discusses the A-35.}}
  
 
== 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;''
 
* ''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.''
Line 201: Line 193:
 
<!-- ''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 aircraft;''
 
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 +
 
* [[wt:en/news/5123-development-a-35b-the-american-legionnaire-en|[Devblog] A-35B: The American Legionnaire]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/5123-development-a-35b-the-american-legionnaire-en|[Devblog] A-35B: The American Legionnaire]]
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/385964-vultee-a-35b/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
  
−
{{Template:AirManufacturer Vultee}}
+
{{AirManufacturer Vultee}}
 
{{France bombers}}
 
{{France bombers}}

Latest revision as of 22:59, 3 October 2023

RANK 5 FRANCE
Somua SM PACK
▄A-35B
a-35b.png
GarageImage A-35B (France).jpg
ArtImage A-35B (France).png
▄A-35B
France flag.png France
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.0 2.7 3.3
Class:
Research:11 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:22 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The A-35B had its beginnings in the Vultee Model 72 in 1940. It was primarily developed for the French Air Force as a dive-bomber but the fall of France put a stop to that. The Model 72 was a unique design for dive bombers as the wings prevent the aircraft from straying off target during a dive-bombing run. After the Pearl Harbor attack, the US acquired many A-31s and Model 72s and later birthed the A-35 “Vengeance”. The A-35 had a better engine and other changes for flight performance. France would later receive almost 70 A-35A/Bs during the lend-lease program.

Introduced in Update 1.73 "Vive la France", the ▄A-35B is a fairly decent ground striker. It has three different loadouts for bombs with the best one being the four 500 lb bomb loadout. The Vengeance also has six M2 Browning machine guns with 375 rounds per gun; which means that the A-35B has an impressive 30 seconds of trigger time. This is more than enough to take out light pillboxes and soft ground targets. In addition, the A-35B comes armoured with three steel plates that protect the crew and oil cooling system. Unfortunately, the A-35B lacks in defensive fire with only a single 12.7 mm turret in the rear.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 3 650 m485 km/h
Turn time29 s
Max altitude7 100 m
EngineWright R-2600-13
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight16 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 3,650 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 466 448 7100 30.6 33.4 5.2 5.2 307
Upgraded 507 485 27.8 29.0 10.3 7.5

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
0 278 369 290 278 ~15 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 257 < 350 < 380 > 320

Survivability and armour

Crew2 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear278 km/h
  • 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of pilot.
  • 12.7 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.
  • 6.35 mm Steel plate behind oil cooling system.
  • 12.7 mm Steel plate in front of dorsal gunner.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB866 → 1 102 Sl icon.png
RB1 436 → 1 828 Sl icon.png
SB2 363 → 3 008 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications10 320 Rp icon.png
13 700 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost750 Ge icon.png
Crew training6 300 Sl icon.png
Experts22 000 Sl icon.png
Aces250 Ge icon.png
Research Aces220 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
60 / 130 / 180 % Sl icon.png
124 / 124 / 124 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
520 Rp icon.png
Cost:
690 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
520 Rp icon.png
Cost:
690 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
650 Rp icon.png
Cost:
860 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
650 Rp icon.png
Cost:
860 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 500 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 500 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_belt_pack
Research:
520 Rp icon.png
Cost:
690 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
SBC-17
Research:
520 Rp icon.png
Cost:
690 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
bmg50_new_gun
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_turret_belt_pack
Research:
650 Rp icon.png
Cost:
860 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
LBC-25
Research:
650 Rp icon.png
Cost:
860 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods turret gun.png
bmg50_turret_new_gun
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 500 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 16 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun
Ammunition2 250 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
Main article: M2 Browning (12.7 mm)

The A-35B (France) is armed with:

  • 6 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (375 rpg = 2,250 total)

The six machine guns are arranged in bundles of two mounted in each wing. Each is armed with the same amount of ammunition, which means that all guns will fire together until empty.

Suspended armament

List of setups (3)
Setup 12 x 250 lb AN-M57 bomb
2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb
Setup 24 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb
Setup 31 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb
Main articles: AN-M57 (250 lb), AN-M64A1 (500 lb), AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)

The A-35B (France) can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 2 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (1,500 lb total)
  • 4 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb (1,000 lb total)

Both loads with 500 lb bombs contain in total a higher TNT equivalent than a single 1,000 lb bomb. This makes that single 1,000 lb bomb suitable only against heavily armored targets in naval mode. Against most of the targets (including destroyers and strategic bases) a multi-bomb load outs are superior. An alternative would be to use the ▄F6F-5 (BR 3.3), the ▄SB2C-5 (BR 3.7), or the ▄AD-4 (BR 6.0) instead, as they all offer comparable or better loads.

Defensive armament

Turret12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun
Ammunition400 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
Main article: M2 Browning (12.7 mm)

The A-35B (France) is defended by:

  • 1 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun, dorsal turret (400 rpg)

Usage in battles

The A-35B is designed as a ground attack aircraft, and should be played as such. The aircraft is relatively slow, rather large, and not particularly manoeuvrable. Thus, play the aircraft like a ground attacker. However, it does have some perks which should be utilized to the maximum.

Air Battles:

The A-35 has a nominal bomb load of up to 2,000 lbs split over four 500 lb bombs. This isn't the greatest bomb load by any means, but can get the job done against lighter targets. The 500 lb bombs don't have a particularly large blast radius, which make it difficult to destroy harder targets such as tanks and pillboxes. However, the aircraft has dive brakes, meaning that it is capable of pinpoint dive-bombing against the enemy. When at a decent altitude (1,500-2,000 m above the target), drop into a near vertical dive, deploy airbrakes, and put the target slightly above the cockpit. Then, at ~500 m above the target, drop the bomb(s) and pull out. If this is done accurately, it can ensure a direct hit or kill against ground targets. The 1,000 lb bomb is usually more suited for this bombing role, since it has a larger blast radius. However, the downside of the larger bomb is that you only have a single bomb, and a single drop.

The second advantage the A-35 has for air battles are its six heavy 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns. While the A-35 doesn't get access to the later, more powerful M2 Brownings, these machine guns are very suited to ripping ground and air targets apart. Notably, they are quite good at destroying light pillboxes. Against pillboxes, the universal or stealth belt is usually the most effective, as they contain the most M8 AP-I incendiary tracer bullets which are extremely effective against pillboxes. Note that the pillboxes will be destroyed faster if shot at from the top - in this mode, perform a diving attack (30-40 degrees) on the pillbox, destroy it, and then pull up and strike another target. If the pillbox isn't destroyed, come in for another strafing run, Finally, note that the 12.7 mm guns can only destroy light pillboxes - regular pillboxes are impervious to all gunfire, and can only be destroyed with bombs.

Ground Battles:

The A-35 is also well-suited for ground battles where it can make use of its payload. Again, the aforementioned dive bombing tactic can be used against enemy tanks, especially clustered vehicles at a capture point, or other choke point. The 1,000 lb bomb is almost always the best option against ground targets, as it packs the largest punch. While this may limit the amount of targets you can hit in a single sortie, the chances of getting one or more kills is much greater. Finally, don't underestimate the power of your machine guns! They can penetrate the tops of most tanks at the A-35's BR (the Ground Targets belt is the best, with 26 mm of penetration), and can obviously lay waste to any unarmoured SPGs or SPAAs.

Air-to-air and defensive flying:

If being attacked by any fighters, the A-35 gets into a sticky position. Its manoeuvrability and top speed are both abysmal for its BR, making it a sitting duck for any pursuing aircraft. Thus, do not attempt to engage any fighters in a 1-on-1, as it will result in a quick demise. Instead, lead the enemies toward friendly fighters, as well as onto your six o'clock as you have a very potent tail gunner. The tail gunner is armed with another 12.7 mm Browning gun, which is great for pilot snipes and setting engines on fire. Thus, bait them onto your tail, where you can quickly pilot-snipe them and remove the threat. It is worth noting that your six 12.7 mm Brownings are very good at setting things on fire; however, do not engage any other aircraft unless they are noticeably more sluggish than you.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Controllable
Auto control available 		Not controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Combined Controllable
2 gears 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Gets an airspawn allowing it to reach the battlefield faster
  • Has dive brakes which are highly useful for dive-bombing
  • Has a decent payload for an aircraft of its size
  • Heavy forward armament of six 12.7 mm machine guns, as well as an additional 12.7 mm machine gun in the rear

Cons:

  • Large and slow - fighters will have no trouble catching up!
  • Payload is constrained to 500 lb bombs if carrying max bomb load, and no bombs over 1,000 lbs are available
  • Manoeuvrability, especially roll rate, is absolutely horrid compared to fighters and even some other attackers

History

At the beginning of the 1930s, the American company Vultee was developing a concept for a strike aircraft capable of effectively hitting ground targets, light vehicles and enemy infantry from low altitudes. Effective actions by Germany's Ju-87 dive bombers in Europe served as a basis for the creation of a concept for the American A-31 Vengeance, a strike dive bomber with a machine gun battery in its wings. This new addition immediately caught the attention of the British delegation, which happened to be searching for a design like the Stuka to aid in the fight against Germany. In the course of modernization, the A-31 received a new 1,700 hp engine and strengthened armament of five, and then seven high-calibre Browning machine guns (six in the wings and one more for defense against attacks from the rear), and a bomb load of up to 2,000 pounds. Modernized version got new designation - Vultee A-35. In spite of a large export order, the Vengeance also served in the American air force and navy, and the reviews about it were contradictory. For the war in Europe, the bomber turned out to be ill-prepared. Its low speed, large silhouette and need to descend to drop its bombs made it very vulnerable to enemy flak cannons and fighters. However, in the Pacific Theater the vehicle performed well. The Japanese had far fewer anti-aircraft defenses, and the Vengeance served as an attack aircraft, a bomber and a submarine hunter.

Nonetheless, the main operators of the A-35 were foreigners. Several squadrons in the British Air Force were equipped with these dive bombers. The aircraft was delivered to Australia and Brazil, and it served in the Free French Army in Africa.

- From Devblog

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #302 - Metal Beasts section at 00:28 discusses the A-35B (France).
The Shooting Range #71 - Pages of History section at 03:13 discusses the A-35.

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


Vultee Aircraft Corporation
Export  P-66 · ▄A-35B · V-11 · V-12D

France bombers
Farman  F.222.2 · N.C.223.3
Latécoère  Late 298D
Potez  Potez 633
Liore et Olivier  LeO 451 early · LeO 451 late
Bloch  M.B.174A-3 · M.B.162 · M.B.175T
American  V-156-F · Martin 167-A3 · ▄A-35B · ▄SB2C-5 · B-26C · ▄PBY-5A Late · ▄PB4Y-2
British  Lancaster MR.7

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