Difference between revisions of "P-61A-11"

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{{Specs-Card|code=p-61a_1}}
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{{About
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{{Notice|''This page is about the aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''. For other uses, see [[P-61_(Disambiguation)|P-61 (Disambiguation)]]''}}
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| about = premium American fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = the regular version
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| link = P-61C-1
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}}
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{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=p-61a_1
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
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|cockpit=cockpit_p-61a_1.jpg
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}}
 +
 
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
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<!--''In the description, the first part needs to 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 screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it 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 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.'' -->
 +
The P-61A was the first production variant of the P-61 "Black Widow". Production started in 1943 and differed from the YP-61 by being painted in an olive drab color. Some P-61As were built without the turret due to the B-29 bomber program and problems with the turret during high speed dives. A significant portion had the turret fixed pointing forward and would be controlled by the pilot instead of the gunner. Also, the gunner never flew on certain missions since his main job, controlling the turret, wasn't needed and missions were carried out with only the pilot and radio operator. With the A-5 block, the engines were replaced from the R-2800-10s to the more powerful R-2800-65 and increased the top speed and climb rate. The next block, the A-10, featured the all-important water injection system and returned to the black paint scheme. The A-11 was a modification of the A-10 and only added an extra pylon for either fuel or bombs. Only 20 P-61A-10s were modified to A-11 standards.
  
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a twin-engine fighter, also known as a strike fighter in-game. It is excellent in bomber hunting and excels when used with Boom & Zoom tactics. Unlike the more advanced [[P-61C-1]] variant, this initial production aircraft has weaker engines and fewer external suspended weapons. However, it still has the remote-turret which is incredibly useful for bomber hunting or attacking enemy fighters, as well as four chin-mounted 20 mm cannons with 800 rounds. The P-61A-11 also has a decent amount of armour protecting the crew members and gun placements.  
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{{break}}
 
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium Rank {{Specs|rank}} American twin-engine fighter {{BR1}}. It was introduced in [[Update_1.57_"Battle_March"|Update 1.57 "Battle March"]]. Unlike the more advanced [[P-61C-1|P-61C-1]] variant, this initial production aircraft does not feature any external suspended payloads.
 
  
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The P-61A-1 is a twin-engine fighter, also known as a strike fighter in-game. It has four AN/M2 cannons placed under the belly of the aircraft with an additional four [[Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|Browning machine guns]] in a remotely controlled dorsal turret. The cannons combined with the turret are able to make quick work of any plane which stands in your way. The machine gun turret was controlled by a gyroscopic fire control computer which was operated by either the gunner or radar operator for both offensive and defensive situations. It is excellent in bomber hunting and excels when used with Boom & Zoom tactics. However, it does not have defensive armament that provides essential protection from low rear or belly attacks. While being a large aircraft, it is unable to effectively turn fight and when doing so, rapidly bleeds any energy and advantages it may have..
+
The P-61A-11 was introduced in [[Update 1.57 "Battle March"]] as an in-game premium vehicle purchasable with Golden Eagles {{ge}} but was removed from in-game sale during the [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/529689-planned-economy-changes-in-july-2021 July 2021 Economy Update]. It has been made available in the store periodically for "Black Friday" sales in [[wt:en/news/5132-shop-take-advantage-of-special-black-friday-en|2017]], [[wt:en/news/6488-shop-black-friday-sale-en|2019]], [[wt:en/news/6957-shop-black-friday-bundle-en|2020]], [[wt:en/news/7431-shop-black-friday-bundle-en|2021]], and [[wt:en/news/7975-shop-black-friday-bundle-en|2022]].
 +
== General info ==
 +
=== Flight performance ===
 +
{{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.'' -->
 +
While being a large aircraft, it is unable to effectively turn to fight and when doing so, rapidly bleeds any energy and advantages it may have.
 +
The two engines are Pratt & Whitney R-2800-65s. It will only be able to take off with a speed of around 169 mph (271 km/h) and requires a very long airstrip since it is a very heavy plane.
  
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Turret defensive angles are limited to the upper plane of the aircraft as it can not aim any lower than the elevators. If an enemy plane is in the machine gun dead zone, you will need to change the position of the plane so the guns can acquire a firing solution, this can be accomplished by transitioning into a steep climb or dive. It also offers very weak crew protection from head-on attacks.
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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The two engines are Pratt & Whitney R-2800-10's. It will only be able to take off with a speed of around 169 mph (271 kph) and requires a very long airstrip, since it is a very heavy plane. 
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
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== General info ==
 
−
=== Flight Performance ===
 
−
<!--''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''-->
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
−
|-
 
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 7,315 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 7,315 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" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
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! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
−
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run<br>(meters)
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! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
−
|-
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
|-
 
−
| 561 || 549 || 11,000 || 31.0 || 32.0 || 9.3 || 9.1 || 457
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 7,315 m)
+
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
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! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
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! AB
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! Stock
−
! RB
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| 561 || 549 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 31.0 || 32.0 || 9.3 || 9.1 || rowspan="2" | 457
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 602 || 582 || 11,000 || 29.1 || 30.0 || 13.3 || 11.2 || 457
+
! Upgraded
 +
| 602 || 582 || 29.1 || 30.0 || 13.3 || 11.2
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
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====Details====
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==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flap
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! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
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! Take-off flap
 
−
! Landing flap
 
−
! Air brakes
 
−
! Arrestor gear
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
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|}
 
|}
  
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | Limits
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! colspan="7" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
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! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
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! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
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! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
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! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
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! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
−
! +
+
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
−
! -
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 642 || 350 || 340 || ~4 || ~2
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| 642 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 340 || 337 || 280 || ~7 || ~3
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
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! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
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! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
−
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < 530 || < 420 || < 450 || > 240
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| < 530 || < 420 || < 450 || > 340
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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=== Survivability and armour ===
−
|-
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{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
−
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
|-
+
It also offers very weak crew protection from head-on attacks.
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 460 m || 4000 hp || n/a
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 4,420 m || 3,480 hp || n/a
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 6,090 m || 3,320 hp || n/a
 
−
|- -->
 
−
|}
 
  
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=== Survivability and armour ===
+
* 12.7 mm Steel - Nose armour plating (behind radar unit)
−
<!--''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''-->
+
* 60 mm Bulletproof glass - Pilot and gunner armoured windscreens
−
* 12.7 mm Steel - Nose armor plating (behind radar unit)
+
* 12.7 mm Steel - Gunner front armour (folds out of the way when not in use)
−
* 60 mm Bulletproof glass - Pilot and gunner armored wind screens
 
−
* 12.7 mm Steel - Gunner front armor (folds out of the way when not in use)
 
 
* 12.7 mm Steel - Lower gun plate
 
* 12.7 mm Steel - Lower gun plate
 
* 9.5 mm Steel - Gun turret ammo protection plates
 
* 9.5 mm Steel - Gun turret ammo protection plates
 
* 12.7 mm Steel - Turret protection plate
 
* 12.7 mm Steel - Turret protection plate
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== 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.''-->
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{{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.'' -->
 +
[[File:P-61_upperturret_cone_of_fire.jpg|250px|thumb|right|The cones of fire for the upper machine gun turret on the {{PAGENAME}}.]]
 
{{main|AN/M2 (20 mm)}}
 
{{main|AN/M2 (20 mm)}}
  
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* 4 x 20 mm AN/M2 cannons, chin-mounted (200 rpg = 800 total)
 
* 4 x 20 mm AN/M2 cannons, chin-mounted (200 rpg = 800 total)
  
−
<!--=== Suspended armament ===
+
The 20 mm AN/M2 cannons placed under the belly are able to make quick work of any plane which stands in your way.
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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.''
+
 
−
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;''Main article:&nbsp;'''[[:Category:Suspended armaments|Bombs]]'''''
+
=== Suspended armament ===
−
-->
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{{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.'' -->
 +
{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 
 +
* Without load
 +
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
 +
* 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)
 +
 
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== 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.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
−
{{main|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)}}
+
<!-- ''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)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
  
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* 4 x 12.7 mm Browning M2 machine guns, dorsal turret (500 rpg inside + 560 rpg outside = 2,120 total)
+
* 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, dorsal turret (560 rpg = 2,240 total)
  
−
== Usage in the battles ==
+
The 4 x Browning machine guns are set in a remotely controlled dorsal turret controlled by a gyroscopic fire control computer which was operated by either the gunner or radar operator for both offensive and defensive situations. Turret defensive angles are limited to the upper plane of the aircraft as it can not aim any lower than the elevators. If an enemy plane is in the machine gun dead zone, you will need to change the position of the plane so the guns can acquire a firing solution, this can be accomplished by transitioning into a steep climb or dive. The P-61A-11 does not have defensive armament that provides essential protection from the low rear or belly attacks.
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<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but 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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The below tactics can be used in all games modes: 
 
  
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'''How to offensively Engage an enemy aircraft:''' <br /> Climb to high altitude and keep on a straight heading once you have seen the enemy. Overshoot the enemy plane, then perform a 180 degree turn. Make sure you stay on his tail and gradually descend. It is recommended to do something similar to a shallow descent, where you can keep speed and height to your advantage in case the enemy aircraft changes course and altitude. Do not perform a dive which requires you dive straight down, since you will rip the wings off and crash. Once you are within firing range, fire a short salvo from your cannons. A couple bursts from the Black Widow are sufficient to easily rip an enemy plane to shreds.
+
== 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).'' -->
 +
The below tactics can be used in all games modes:
  
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'''''How to perform defensive fighting:'''''<br />
+
'''How to offensively Engage an enemy aircraft:''' Climb to high altitude and keep on a straight heading once you have seen the enemy. Overshoot the enemy plane, then perform a 180-degree turn. Make sure you stay on his tail and gradually descend. It is recommended to do something similar to a shallow descent, where you can keep speed and height to your advantage in case the enemy aircraft changes course and altitude. Do not perform a dive which requires you to dive straight down since you will rip the wings off and crash. Once you are within firing range, fire a short salvo from your cannons. A couple of bursts from the Black Widow are sufficient to easily rip an enemy plane to shreds.
−
When you are being engaged by an enemy fighter, make sure you keep descending. '''Very Important:''' Do not allow enemy aircraft to get lower than your elevator on the tail boom. You have no defensive armament to cover the belly or full-rear of the plane; these are your weakest defended parts.
 
  
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*Tactic one: Descend slowly. Put the plane in a steep dive that does not exceed your structural limit of 399 mph (642 kph). However it must be steep enough to provide the turret gunner full visibility of the enemy plane. The four [[Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|Browning]] machine guns will take care of the enemy plane.  
+
'''How to perform defensive fighting:''' When you are being engaged by an enemy fighter, make sure you keep descending. Do not allow enemy aircraft to get lower than your elevator on the tail boom. You have no defensive armament to cover the belly or full-rear of the plane; these are your weakest defended parts.
  
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*Tactic Two: Put the plane in a steep climb and make sure you set the throttle to at least 70%. Jump into the gunner turret and operate it. This will be the most accurate and fastest way of shooting down the hostile plane. When you operate the turret, make sure you try and perform defensive manoeuvres when operating it i.e. sharp turns, rapidly decreasing in height as well as gaining height and changing the speed of the plane in an irrational way. This will give you higher chance of survival against the enemy.
+
*Tactic one: Descend slowly. Put the plane in a steep dive that does not exceed your structural limit of 399 mph (642 km/h). However, it must be steep enough to provide the turret gunner full visibility of the enemy plane. The four [[Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|Browning]] machine guns will take care of the enemy plane.
 +
*Tactic Two: Put the plane in a steep climb and make sure you set the throttle to at least 70%. Jump into the gunner turret and operate it. This will be the most accurate and fastest way of shooting down the hostile plane. When you operate the turret, make sure you try and perform defensive manoeuvres when operating it i.e. sharp turns, rapidly decreasing in height as well as gaining height and changing the speed of the plane in an irrational way. This will give you a higher chance of survival against the enemy.
  
 
====Specific enemies worth noting====
 
====Specific enemies worth noting====
 
<!--Some concerning vehicles to worry about if playing this plane. (i.e. Japanese fighters will out turn you)-->
 
<!--Some concerning vehicles to worry about if playing this plane. (i.e. Japanese fighters will out turn you)-->
 +
 
*'''Japanese Aircraft'''
 
*'''Japanese Aircraft'''
−
The most dangerous opponents for the P-61A are going to be the Japanese aircraft, due to their incredible maneuverability, and their fast climb-rate, which will leave you at a disadvantage in altitude. However, the most notable threat from the Japanese arsenal is probably going to be the J2M Raiden, due to its fast speed and fairly durable armor for a Japanese plane. In addition, any of the later model A6M3 Reisen (Zero) models will give you problems, as they will out-turn you in seconds.  
+
 
 +
The most dangerous opponents for the P-61A are going to be the Japanese aircraft, due to their incredible manoeuvrability, and their fast climb-rate, which will leave you at a disadvantage in altitude. However, the most notable threat from the Japanese arsenal is probably going to be the J2M Raiden, due to its fast speed and fairly durable armour for a Japanese plane. In addition, any of the later model A6M3 Reisen (Zero) models will give you problems, as they will out-turn you in seconds.
  
 
*'''German Aircraft'''
 
*'''German Aircraft'''
−
The Germans have the most planes with more dangerous cannons, thanks to their minengeschoß rounds, which punch through and explode inside an air frame, thus causing maximum damage to control surfaces. As you are at a battle rating of 3.7, you have the possibility of facing the Bf-109 G-6, which has a fast speed and nose-mounted weaponry that are large enough in caliber to shred your air frame. Perhaps the biggest threat to your plane is the ''Focke-Wulf'' Fw 190 A-4, which boasts four 20 mm cannons, which will reduce your plane to a burning wreck. While it is unlikely to see many at high altitude, the ''Messerschmitt'' Me-410 A-1 is also a viable threat.
 
  
−
*'''Russian Aircraft'''
+
The Germans have the most planes with more dangerous cannons, thanks to their Minengeschoß rounds, which punch through and explode inside an airframe, thus causing maximum damage to control surfaces. At your battle rating, you have the possibility of facing the Bf 109 G-6, which has a fast speed and nose-mounted weaponry that are large enough in calibre to shred your airframe. Perhaps the biggest threat to your plane is the Focke-Wulf Fw 190 A-4, which boasts four 20 mm cannons, which will reduce your plane to a burning wreck. While it is unlikely to see many at high altitude, the Messerschmitt Me 410 A-1 is also a viable threat.
−
Repeat after the following bold statement:'''Do not head-on an IL-2 of any variant.''' As sluggish as they seem, the IL-2 will rip your aircraft to shreds due to the fast firing combination of machine gun and auto-cannon fire. The most common adversary that will be faced is any aircraft bearing the prefix "Yak"- most dangerous among them is the Yak-9K, which has a 45 mm cannon that can utterly obliterate your plane, and the Yak-9T, which has a 37 mm cannon that will do the same damage to your aircraft. The La-5FN is probably the biggest threat you will face due to its fast speed, ridiculously strong cockpit armor, climb rate, maneuverability and firepower. This is mainly given if an La-5FN pilot is using "Ground Target" ammunition, every third round fired is an Armor-Piercing Fragmentation Incendiary round, and every other round is either a Fragmentation-Incendiary Tracer or an Armor-Piercing Incendiary round. In short, the La-5FN has the biggest threat due to all the API rounds in the ammunition.  
+
 
 +
*'''Soviet Aircraft'''
 +
 
 +
Repeat after the following bold statement: do not head-on an IL-2 of any variant. As sluggish as they seem, the IL-2 will rip your aircraft to shreds due to the fast firing combination of machine gun and auto-cannon fire. The most common adversary that will be faced is any aircraft bearing the prefix "Yak"- most dangerous among them is the Yak-9K, which has a 45 mm cannon that can utterly obliterate your plane, and the Yak-9T, which has a 37 mm cannon that will do the same damage to your aircraft. The La-5FN is probably the biggest threat you will face due to its fast speed, ridiculously strong cockpit armour, climb rate, manoeuvrability and firepower. This is mainly given if a La-5FN pilot is using "Ground Target" ammunition, every third round fired is an Armor-Piercing Fragmentation Incendiary round, and every other round is either a Fragmentation-Incendiary Tracer or an Armor-Piercing Incendiary round. In short, the La-5FN has the biggest threat due to all the API rounds in the ammunition.
  
 
*'''British Aircraft'''
 
*'''British Aircraft'''
−
The British are among the most maneuverable adversary you will face, so with that in mind, do not try and turn-fight any British plane. Also, most British planes have an astonishing climb-rate, which will leave you at an altitude disadvantage. The most common adversary you will face is the Spitfire Mk. IIb, which can turn circles around you and it has two wing-mounted Hispano cannons, which can tear into the P-61's air frame. They may not be too common, but a Boomerang Mk. I or a Boomerang Mk. II will also give you a hard time, given their tighter grouping of shells, and the fact they have the Hispano Mk. II cannons, whose "Air Target" ammunition is practically "Stealth" ammunition. The Beaufighter Mk. VIc, will be the most dangerous threat, given the four Hispano cannons in the belly, which will tear apart the P-61. A Spitfire Mk. V will also give you a run for your money, due to the Hispano Mk. II cannons it wields.  
+
 
 +
The British are among the most manoeuvrable adversary you will face, so with that in mind, do not try and turn-fight any British plane. Also, most British planes have an astonishing climb-rate, which will leave you at an altitude disadvantage. The most common adversary you will face is the Spitfire Mk. IIb, which can turn circles around you and it has two wing-mounted Hispano cannons, which can tear into the P-61's airframe. They may not be too common, but a Boomerang Mk. I or a Boomerang Mk. II will also give you a hard time, given their tighter grouping of shells, and the fact they have the Hispano Mk. II cannons, whose "Air Target" ammunition is practically "Stealth" ammunition. The Beaufighter Mk. VIc, will be the most dangerous threat, given the four Hispano cannons in the belly, which will tear apart the P-61. A Spitfire Mk. V will also give you a run for your money, due to the Hispano Mk. II cannons it wields.
  
 
*'''Italian Aircraft'''
 
*'''Italian Aircraft'''
−
The most plausible threat from the Italians will be the C.202EC (''Experimental Cannon''), which has the maneuverability, speed and firepower, thanks to the plane boasting German 20 mm cannons that have the minengeschoß shells.  
+
 
 +
The most plausible threat from the Italians will be the C.202EC (Experimental Cannon), which has the manoeuvrability, speed and especially firepower due to the plane boasting German 20 mm cannons which utilise the minengeschoß shells.
  
 
*'''American Aircraft'''
 
*'''American Aircraft'''
−
In addition, another major threat is the American P-47D Thunderbolt, which has the speed and firepower to out-class the P-61A in any fashion.  
+
 
−
===Manual Engine Control===
+
In addition, another major threat is the American P-47D Thunderbolt, which has the speed and firepower to out-class the P-61A in any fashion.
 +
 
 +
===Radars===
 +
{{main|AI Mk. X}}
 +
[[File:P-61_-_Nose_Radar.jpg|250px|thumb|right|A front view of a {{PAGENAME}}'s [[AI Mk. X]] radar.]]
 +
The P-61A-11 is equipped with an [[AI Mk. X]] search radar, located in the nose of the aircraft. The radar utilised a 29 in (74 cm) parabolic dish which it rotated at 360 rpm when set to ranges below 100 miles, however, it is slowed down to 100 rpm when set to the 100 miles setting. The scopes could be set to one of four ranges, 1, 10, 20 or 100 miles (1.6, 16, 32 or 160 km). The parabolic dish could be adjusted to different altitude settings which included 0° to 0°, -5° to +5°, +5° to +20°, and +20° to +50°. One of the benefits to the multiple choices in range and altitude settings of the radar was that it provided partial immunity to chaff and other radar interference or countermeasures conducted by the enemy.
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
! colspan="4" | [[AI Mk. X]] - Target Detection Radar
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
+
! {{Annotation|Maximum<br/>Detection<br/>Range|The maximum possible range at which a target can be detected}}
−
|-
+
! {{Annotation|Guaranteed<br/>Detection<br/>Range|The range, below which, detection of a target is practically guaranteed}}
−
! rowspan="2" |Mixer
+
! {{Annotation|Max Azimuth<br/>Scan Angle|How far to each side the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
−
! rowspan="2" |Pitch
+
! {{Annotation|Max Elevation<br/>Scan Angle|How far up and down the radar can scan (widest search mode)}}
−
! colspan="3" |Radiator
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Supercharger
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Turbocharger
 
−
|-
 
−
! Oil
 
−
! Water
 
−
! Type
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not ontrollable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| 14,000 m || 8,500 m || ±75° || -20°/+40°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
[[File:P-61_cockpit_pilots_radar_indicator.png|250px|thumb|right|A view of a {{PAGENAME}} pilot's instrument panel with a BC-1152-A pilots indicator portion of the [[AI Mk. X]] radar. (The BC-1152-A is the square box with the rectangular window just above the control yoke)]]
  
−
===Modules===
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
−
{| class="wikitable"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
−
!colspan = "1"| Tier
 
−
!colspan = "2"| Flight performance
 
−
!colspan = "1"| Survivability
 
−
!colspan = "2"| Weaponry
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| I
+
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
−
| Fuselage Repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| Turret 12 mm
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| II
+
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
−
|  
+
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
−
| Compressor
+
! colspan="3" | Radiator
−
| Airframe
+
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
−
| New 12 mm MGs (turret)
+
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
−
| III
+
! Oil !! Water !! Type
−
| Wings Repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| IV
+
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Controllable<br>3 gears || Not controllable
−
|  
 
−
|  
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| New 20 mm Cannons
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''-->
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
 +
 
* The offensive armament is mounted under the belly of the plane, this provides excellent accuracy
 
* The offensive armament is mounted under the belly of the plane, this provides excellent accuracy
 
* Powerful offensive armament of 4 x [[AN/M2 (20 mm)|AN/M2]] cannons with a total amount of 800 rounds
 
* Powerful offensive armament of 4 x [[AN/M2 (20 mm)|AN/M2]] cannons with a total amount of 800 rounds
−
* Powerful defensive armament of 4 x [[Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|Browning MGs]] in a turret with 2120 rounds that can be used offensively
+
* Powerful defensive armament of 4 x [[Browning M2 (12.7 mm)|Browning MGs]] in a turret with 2,240 rounds that can be used offensively
 
* Very stable climb rate
 
* Very stable climb rate
−
* Engines are able to cool down very fast  
+
* Engines are able to cool down very fast
−
* Okay turn time
 
−
* Able to perform sharp movements at low and high speed
 
 
* Excellent bomber hunter
 
* Excellent bomber hunter
−
* Excellent Reward and Research bonus
 
 
* Very strong and rugged airframe; is able to fly with wing tips missing
 
* Very strong and rugged airframe; is able to fly with wing tips missing
−
* Can keep alot of momentum from a gradual dive
+
* Can keep a lot of momentum from a gradual dive
−
* Can do very sharp manoeuvers at high and low speeds due to the flaps
+
* Can do very sharp manoeuvres at high and low speeds due to the flaps
 
* Engine can stay very cool at high throttle settings (65-75%)
 
* Engine can stay very cool at high throttle settings (65-75%)
 +
* Has access to a target detection radar, with much better range than German radars found around this battle rating
 +
 +
'''Cons:'''
  
−
'''Cons'''
 
−
* No WEP.
 
 
* Slow acceleration and requires a long airstrip to take off due to weight
 
* Slow acceleration and requires a long airstrip to take off due to weight
 
* Slow roll rates
 
* Slow roll rates
−
* No airbrakes installed; easy to get structural damage and rip apart at 399 mph (642 kph)
+
* No airbrakes installed
 +
* Not recommended to dive sharply, easy to get structural damage and rip apart at 642 kn/h (399 mph)
 
* Unable to put fires out in a dive, due to speed will reach in excess of structural limitations which will rip the wings off
 
* Unable to put fires out in a dive, due to speed will reach in excess of structural limitations which will rip the wings off
−
* Not recommended to dive sharply, structural damage will occur in speeds in excess of 399 mph
+
* Unable to sustain a direct head-on attack against a well-armed, small-profile enemy plane
−
* Unable to sustain a direct head on attack against a well-armed, small-profile enemy plane
 
 
* Only one defensive dorsal turret installed, cannot cover the rear of the plane effectively
 
* Only one defensive dorsal turret installed, cannot cover the rear of the plane effectively
−
* No defense against low-rear and belly attacks
+
* No defence against low-rear and belly attacks
−
* Large body airframe, makes dog fighting almost impossible
+
* Large body airframe, makes dogfighting almost impossible
 
* Can not carry additional armament
 
* Can not carry additional armament
−
* Flaps snap off easily.
+
* Flaps snap off easily
 +
* Compared to the [[P-61C-1|main tech tree variant]], worse in every way in terms of manoeuvrability, speed and climb rate
 +
* Smaller payload than the [[P-61C-1]]
  
 
== 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 big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''
+
<!-- ''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 1940, the British Purchasing Commission wanted a high-altitude, high-speed interceptor to shoot down Luftwaffe bombers when they raided British cities. This called for a high-endurance heavy fighter with Aerial Interception (AI) radars and specified gun armament mounted in a 360 degrees gun turret. The requirements were sent to many aircraft manufacturers, one of them being Jack Northrop. The USAAC accepted his proposal, resulting in one of the most deadly and large fighters in World War Two. The prototype YP-61, had a long fuselage gondola in between two engine nacelles. The tail was a new radical twin-boom design. Full span flaps were fitted on the wings and it had two Pratt & Whitney R-2800-10 Double Wasp 18-cylinder radials, producing 2,000 horsepower each. The plane was mounted on a tricycle landing gear and had a three-man crew: a radar operator, gunner, and pilot. Armament includes four Browning 12.7 mm heavy machine guns mounted in a four-gun powered turret. The original design also had a ventral turret, but that was replaced by Hispano Mk.II cannons. Some versions also had air brakes so the pilot would not overshoot the target.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
  
−
== Read also ==
+
;Skins
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
+
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=p-61a_1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Images
 +
<gallery mode="packed" heights="200">
 +
File:P-61 frontview.jpg|Front view of the deadly P-61 twin-engine fighter.
 +
File:P-61 cockpit.jpg|Detailed view of the two-seat cockpit of the P-61.
 +
File:P-61 radiooperator.jpg|A close-up view of the radio operator position on the P-61.
 +
</gallery>
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|rpp-GqXiaKg|'''The Shooting Range #214''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 04:41 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|B_KJXo2w0IQ|'''P-61 Black Widow: America's Night-Interceptor''' - ''jimi daen''}}
 +
 
 +
== 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;''
 
* ''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.'' -->
−
<!--''ETC.''-->
 
  
−
== Sources ==
+
* [[P-61C-1]]
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
 
 +
== External links ==
 +
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/303448-northrop-p-61a-1/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 +
* [https://ia801208.us.archive.org/33/items/PilotTrainingManualForTheBlackWidowP61/PilotTrainingManualForTheBlackWidowP-61.pdf Pilot Training Manual for the P-61 Black Widow - By Headquarters AAF - Office of Flying Safety, 1944]
 +
* [https://ww2aircraft.net/forum/threads/p-61-pilots-manual.6789/ Northrop P-61 Black Widow Pilot's Flight Operations Instructions - USAAF, July 1945]
  
 +
{{AirManufacturer Northrop}}
 
{{USA twin-engine fighters}}
 
{{USA twin-engine fighters}}
 +
{{USA premium aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 05:31, 17 October 2023

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
This page is about the premium American fighter P-61A-11. For the regular version, see P-61C-1.
P-61A-11
p-61a_1.png
GarageImage P-61A-11.jpg
360://https://wiki.warthunder.com/images/0/0c/Cockpit_p-61a_1.jpg
P-61A-11
USA flag.png USA
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.7 3.7 4.0
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game

Description

The P-61A was the first production variant of the P-61 "Black Widow". Production started in 1943 and differed from the YP-61 by being painted in an olive drab color. Some P-61As were built without the turret due to the B-29 bomber program and problems with the turret during high speed dives. A significant portion had the turret fixed pointing forward and would be controlled by the pilot instead of the gunner. Also, the gunner never flew on certain missions since his main job, controlling the turret, wasn't needed and missions were carried out with only the pilot and radio operator. With the A-5 block, the engines were replaced from the R-2800-10s to the more powerful R-2800-65 and increased the top speed and climb rate. The next block, the A-10, featured the all-important water injection system and returned to the black paint scheme. The A-11 was a modification of the A-10 and only added an extra pylon for either fuel or bombs. Only 20 P-61A-10s were modified to A-11 standards.

The P-61A-11 is a twin-engine fighter, also known as a strike fighter in-game. It is excellent in bomber hunting and excels when used with Boom & Zoom tactics. Unlike the more advanced P-61C-1 variant, this initial production aircraft has weaker engines and fewer external suspended weapons. However, it still has the remote-turret which is incredibly useful for bomber hunting or attacking enemy fighters, as well as four chin-mounted 20 mm cannons with 800 rounds. The P-61A-11 also has a decent amount of armour protecting the crew members and gun placements.

The P-61A-11 was introduced in Update 1.57 "Battle March" as an in-game premium vehicle purchasable with Golden Eagles Ge icon.png but was removed from in-game sale during the July 2021 Economy Update. It has been made available in the store periodically for "Black Friday" sales in 2017, 2019, 2020, 2021, and 2022.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 7 315 m582 km/h
Turn time30 s
Max altitude11 000 m
Engine2 х Pratt & Whitney R-2800-65
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight15 t

While being a large aircraft, it is unable to effectively turn to fight and when doing so, rapidly bleeds any energy and advantages it may have. The two engines are Pratt & Whitney R-2800-65s. It will only be able to take off with a speed of around 169 mph (271 km/h) and requires a very long airstrip since it is a very heavy plane.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 7,315 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 561 549 11000 31.0 32.0 9.3 9.1 457
Upgraded 602 582 29.1 30.0 13.3 11.2

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
642 350 340 337 280 ~7 ~3
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 530 < 420 < 450 > 340

Survivability and armour

Crew3 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear350 km/h

It also offers very weak crew protection from head-on attacks.

  • 12.7 mm Steel - Nose armour plating (behind radar unit)
  • 60 mm Bulletproof glass - Pilot and gunner armoured windscreens
  • 12.7 mm Steel - Gunner front armour (folds out of the way when not in use)
  • 12.7 mm Steel - Lower gun plate
  • 9.5 mm Steel - Gun turret ammo protection plates
  • 12.7 mm Steel - Turret protection plate

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB792 Sl icon.png
RB5 080 Sl icon.png
SB1 795 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts67 000 Sl icon.png
Aces400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces570 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 60 / 210 / 270 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 136 / 136 / 136 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_turret_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
bmg50_turret_new_gun
Mods pilon bomb.png
FMBC mk.1
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
anm2_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FLBC mk.1
Mods weapon.png
anm2_new_gun

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 14 x 20 mm AN/M2 cannon
Ammunition800 rounds
Fire rate600 shots/min
The cones of fire for the upper machine gun turret on the P-61A-11.
Main article: AN/M2 (20 mm)

The P-61A-11 is armed with:

  • 4 x 20 mm AN/M2 cannons, chin-mounted (200 rpg = 800 total)

The 20 mm AN/M2 cannons placed under the belly are able to make quick work of any plane which stands in your way.

Suspended armament

List of setups (2)
Setup 12 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb
Setup 22 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb
Main articles: AN-M64A1 (500 lb), AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)

The P-61A-11 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (2,000 lb total)

Defensive armament

Turret4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun
Ammunition2240 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
Main article: M2 Browning (12.7 mm)

The P-61A-11 is defended by:

  • 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, dorsal turret (560 rpg = 2,240 total)

The 4 x Browning machine guns are set in a remotely controlled dorsal turret controlled by a gyroscopic fire control computer which was operated by either the gunner or radar operator for both offensive and defensive situations. Turret defensive angles are limited to the upper plane of the aircraft as it can not aim any lower than the elevators. If an enemy plane is in the machine gun dead zone, you will need to change the position of the plane so the guns can acquire a firing solution, this can be accomplished by transitioning into a steep climb or dive. The P-61A-11 does not have defensive armament that provides essential protection from the low rear or belly attacks.

Usage in battles

The below tactics can be used in all games modes:

How to offensively Engage an enemy aircraft: Climb to high altitude and keep on a straight heading once you have seen the enemy. Overshoot the enemy plane, then perform a 180-degree turn. Make sure you stay on his tail and gradually descend. It is recommended to do something similar to a shallow descent, where you can keep speed and height to your advantage in case the enemy aircraft changes course and altitude. Do not perform a dive which requires you to dive straight down since you will rip the wings off and crash. Once you are within firing range, fire a short salvo from your cannons. A couple of bursts from the Black Widow are sufficient to easily rip an enemy plane to shreds.

How to perform defensive fighting: When you are being engaged by an enemy fighter, make sure you keep descending. Do not allow enemy aircraft to get lower than your elevator on the tail boom. You have no defensive armament to cover the belly or full-rear of the plane; these are your weakest defended parts.

  • Tactic one: Descend slowly. Put the plane in a steep dive that does not exceed your structural limit of 399 mph (642 km/h). However, it must be steep enough to provide the turret gunner full visibility of the enemy plane. The four Browning machine guns will take care of the enemy plane.
  • Tactic Two: Put the plane in a steep climb and make sure you set the throttle to at least 70%. Jump into the gunner turret and operate it. This will be the most accurate and fastest way of shooting down the hostile plane. When you operate the turret, make sure you try and perform defensive manoeuvres when operating it i.e. sharp turns, rapidly decreasing in height as well as gaining height and changing the speed of the plane in an irrational way. This will give you a higher chance of survival against the enemy.

Specific enemies worth noting

  • Japanese Aircraft

The most dangerous opponents for the P-61A are going to be the Japanese aircraft, due to their incredible manoeuvrability, and their fast climb-rate, which will leave you at a disadvantage in altitude. However, the most notable threat from the Japanese arsenal is probably going to be the J2M Raiden, due to its fast speed and fairly durable armour for a Japanese plane. In addition, any of the later model A6M3 Reisen (Zero) models will give you problems, as they will out-turn you in seconds.

  • German Aircraft

The Germans have the most planes with more dangerous cannons, thanks to their Minengeschoß rounds, which punch through and explode inside an airframe, thus causing maximum damage to control surfaces. At your battle rating, you have the possibility of facing the Bf 109 G-6, which has a fast speed and nose-mounted weaponry that are large enough in calibre to shred your airframe. Perhaps the biggest threat to your plane is the Focke-Wulf Fw 190 A-4, which boasts four 20 mm cannons, which will reduce your plane to a burning wreck. While it is unlikely to see many at high altitude, the Messerschmitt Me 410 A-1 is also a viable threat.

  • Soviet Aircraft

Repeat after the following bold statement: do not head-on an IL-2 of any variant. As sluggish as they seem, the IL-2 will rip your aircraft to shreds due to the fast firing combination of machine gun and auto-cannon fire. The most common adversary that will be faced is any aircraft bearing the prefix "Yak"- most dangerous among them is the Yak-9K, which has a 45 mm cannon that can utterly obliterate your plane, and the Yak-9T, which has a 37 mm cannon that will do the same damage to your aircraft. The La-5FN is probably the biggest threat you will face due to its fast speed, ridiculously strong cockpit armour, climb rate, manoeuvrability and firepower. This is mainly given if a La-5FN pilot is using "Ground Target" ammunition, every third round fired is an Armor-Piercing Fragmentation Incendiary round, and every other round is either a Fragmentation-Incendiary Tracer or an Armor-Piercing Incendiary round. In short, the La-5FN has the biggest threat due to all the API rounds in the ammunition.

  • British Aircraft

The British are among the most manoeuvrable adversary you will face, so with that in mind, do not try and turn-fight any British plane. Also, most British planes have an astonishing climb-rate, which will leave you at an altitude disadvantage. The most common adversary you will face is the Spitfire Mk. IIb, which can turn circles around you and it has two wing-mounted Hispano cannons, which can tear into the P-61's airframe. They may not be too common, but a Boomerang Mk. I or a Boomerang Mk. II will also give you a hard time, given their tighter grouping of shells, and the fact they have the Hispano Mk. II cannons, whose "Air Target" ammunition is practically "Stealth" ammunition. The Beaufighter Mk. VIc, will be the most dangerous threat, given the four Hispano cannons in the belly, which will tear apart the P-61. A Spitfire Mk. V will also give you a run for your money, due to the Hispano Mk. II cannons it wields.

  • Italian Aircraft

The most plausible threat from the Italians will be the C.202EC (Experimental Cannon), which has the manoeuvrability, speed and especially firepower due to the plane boasting German 20 mm cannons which utilise the minengeschoß shells.

  • American Aircraft

In addition, another major threat is the American P-47D Thunderbolt, which has the speed and firepower to out-class the P-61A in any fashion.

Radars

Main article: AI Mk. X
A front view of a P-61A-11's AI Mk. X radar.

The P-61A-11 is equipped with an AI Mk. X search radar, located in the nose of the aircraft. The radar utilised a 29 in (74 cm) parabolic dish which it rotated at 360 rpm when set to ranges below 100 miles, however, it is slowed down to 100 rpm when set to the 100 miles setting. The scopes could be set to one of four ranges, 1, 10, 20 or 100 miles (1.6, 16, 32 or 160 km). The parabolic dish could be adjusted to different altitude settings which included 0° to 0°, -5° to +5°, +5° to +20°, and +20° to +50°. One of the benefits to the multiple choices in range and altitude settings of the radar was that it provided partial immunity to chaff and other radar interference or countermeasures conducted by the enemy.

AI Mk. X - Target Detection Radar
Maximum
Detection
Range 		Guaranteed
Detection
Range 		Max Azimuth
Scan Angle 		Max Elevation
Scan Angle
14,000 m 8,500 m ±75° -20°/+40°
A view of a P-61A-11 pilot's instrument panel with a BC-1152-A pilots indicator portion of the AI Mk. X radar. (The BC-1152-A is the square box with the rectangular window just above the control yoke)

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • The offensive armament is mounted under the belly of the plane, this provides excellent accuracy
  • Powerful offensive armament of 4 x AN/M2 cannons with a total amount of 800 rounds
  • Powerful defensive armament of 4 x Browning MGs in a turret with 2,240 rounds that can be used offensively
  • Very stable climb rate
  • Engines are able to cool down very fast
  • Excellent bomber hunter
  • Very strong and rugged airframe; is able to fly with wing tips missing
  • Can keep a lot of momentum from a gradual dive
  • Can do very sharp manoeuvres at high and low speeds due to the flaps
  • Engine can stay very cool at high throttle settings (65-75%)
  • Has access to a target detection radar, with much better range than German radars found around this battle rating

Cons:

  • Slow acceleration and requires a long airstrip to take off due to weight
  • Slow roll rates
  • No airbrakes installed
  • Not recommended to dive sharply, easy to get structural damage and rip apart at 642 kn/h (399 mph)
  • Unable to put fires out in a dive, due to speed will reach in excess of structural limitations which will rip the wings off
  • Unable to sustain a direct head-on attack against a well-armed, small-profile enemy plane
  • Only one defensive dorsal turret installed, cannot cover the rear of the plane effectively
  • No defence against low-rear and belly attacks
  • Large body airframe, makes dogfighting almost impossible
  • Can not carry additional armament
  • Flaps snap off easily
  • Compared to the main tech tree variant, worse in every way in terms of manoeuvrability, speed and climb rate
  • Smaller payload than the P-61C-1

History

In 1940, the British Purchasing Commission wanted a high-altitude, high-speed interceptor to shoot down Luftwaffe bombers when they raided British cities. This called for a high-endurance heavy fighter with Aerial Interception (AI) radars and specified gun armament mounted in a 360 degrees gun turret. The requirements were sent to many aircraft manufacturers, one of them being Jack Northrop. The USAAC accepted his proposal, resulting in one of the most deadly and large fighters in World War Two. The prototype YP-61, had a long fuselage gondola in between two engine nacelles. The tail was a new radical twin-boom design. Full span flaps were fitted on the wings and it had two Pratt & Whitney R-2800-10 Double Wasp 18-cylinder radials, producing 2,000 horsepower each. The plane was mounted on a tricycle landing gear and had a three-man crew: a radar operator, gunner, and pilot. Armament includes four Browning 12.7 mm heavy machine guns mounted in a four-gun powered turret. The original design also had a ventral turret, but that was replaced by Hispano Mk.II cannons. Some versions also had air brakes so the pilot would not overshoot the target.

Media

Skins
Images

  • Front view of the deadly P-61 twin-engine fighter.

  • Detailed view of the two-seat cockpit of the P-61.

  • A close-up view of the radio operator position on the P-61.

Videos
The Shooting Range #214 - Pages of History section at 04:41 discusses the P-61A-11.
P-61 Black Widow: America's Night-Interceptor - jimi daen

See also

External links


Northrop Corporation
Fighters  P-61A-11 · P-61C-1
Jet fighters  F-89B · F-89D
  F-5A · F-5C · F-5E
  F-20A
Export  ␗F-5A · ▄F-5E FCU

USA twin-engine fighters
P-38  XP-38G · P-38E · P-38G-1 · P-38J-15 · Bong's P-38J-15 · P-38L-5-LO · P-38K · YP-38
P-61  P-61A-11 · P-61C-1
F7F  F7F-1 · F7F-3
Other  XF5F · XP-50 · F-82E

USA premium aircraft
Fighters  Thach's F2A-1 · Galer's F3F-2 · F2G-1 · F4U-4B VMF-214 · P-26A-34 · Rasmussen's P-36A · P-40C · P-43A-1
  P-47M-1-RE · ⋠P-47M-1-RE · P-51A · P-51D-10 · P-51D-20-NA · ␠Kingcobra · XP-55
  ▃A6M2 · ▃Ki-43-II · ▃Ki-61-Ib · ▃Bf 109 F-4 · ▃Fw 190 A-8 · ▃Spitfire LF Mk IXc
Twin-engine fighters  XP-38G · Bong's P-38J-15 · P-38K · YP-38 · P-61A-11 · XF5F · XP-50 · F7F-3
Jet fighters  P-59A · F-86F-35 · F-89B · F-89D · F-4S Phantom II · F-5C · F-20A
Strike aircraft  A-1H · A2D-1 · AU-1 · XA-38 · AV-8A · AV-8B (NA) · A-6E TRAM · A-10A
Bombers  A-26C-45DT · B-10B · BTD-1 · PBM-3 "Mariner" · PBM-5A "Mariner" · PV-2D

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