Difference between revisions of "Caernarvon"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
<!--''In the description, the first part needs to be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert the screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, they 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 the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} British heavy tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced along with the initial British tree line in [[Update_1.55_"Royal_Armour"|Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]]. Featuring heavy armour on the hull with a [[Centurion Mk 3]] turret, the Caernarvon provides adequate armour, mobility with the bite of a 20-pounder. The variant featured in the game is the ''Mark II'', the experimental series with the 20-pounder whereas the ''Mark I'' was the initial prototype with a 17-pounder instead.
+
In 1949, work on the chassis for the new "Universal Tank" project was nearing completion. However, development of the gun and turret of what would later become the [[Conqueror]] was still yet to begin. In order to expedite testing and training, the new hull was fitted with the 20-pounder-equipped turret of the [[Centurion Mk 3]], producing the '''FV 221 Caernarvon'''. Units were sent to the British Army of the Rhine, Bovington, Libya, and the Middle East for troop trials, identifying a number of issues with the chassis design. Once the Conqueror finally entered service in 1955, all Caernarvon units were re-equipped with the new turret and served until the Conqueror's replacement in the 1960s.  
 +
 
 +
Introduced along with the initial British ground tree in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]], the Caernarvon is the heavier counterpart to the early Centurion series, featuring the same firepower and gun handling characteristics, alongside thicker armour and surprisingly adequate mobility for its size. The Caernarvon works well in a supportive, sniping role, utilising its highly penetrating and easy-to-aim cannon to disable opponents from afar, while minimising the chance of damage through the thick armour. However, it can also be effective in more urban brawls, taking advantage of the two-plane gun stabilizer, decent protection, and reasonable mobility, making the Caernarvon a very versatile vehicle for any location or situation.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || 127 mm (60°) ''Upper glacis'' <br> 76.2 mm (44°) ''Lower glacis'' || 50.8 + 4 mm || 38.1 mm ''Upper plate'' <br> 20 mm (61°) ''Lower glacis'' || 127 mm (30°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 50.8 mm (0-7°) ''Driver compartment'' <br> 18 mm ''Centre'' <br> 8 mm ''Engine vent'' <br> 8 + 18 mm (7°) ''Radiator vent''  
+
| Hull || 127 mm (60°) ''Upper glacis'' <br> 76.2 mm (44°) ''Lower glacis'' || 50.8 + 4 mm || 38.1 mm ''Upper plate'' <br> 20 mm (61°) ''Lower glacis'' || 127 mm (30°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 50.8 mm (0-7°) ''Driver compartment'' <br> 18 mm ''Centre'' <br> 8 mm ''Engine vent'' <br> 8 + 18 mm (7°) ''Radiator vent''
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Turret || 120 + 152 mm (cylindrical) ''Turret front - Centre'' <br> 89-152 mm (5-11°) ''Turret front - Sides '' <br> 100-152 mm (cylindrical) ''Gun mantlet'' <br> 200 mm ''MG port'' || 89 mm (5-9°) || 89 mm ''Bustle'' <br> 89 mm (17-22°) ''Turret base'' || 50.8 mm (19°) ''Front'' <br> 29 mm ''Centre'' <br> 50.8 mm (4-32°) ''Peripheral edge''
 
| Turret || 120 + 152 mm (cylindrical) ''Turret front - Centre'' <br> 89-152 mm (5-11°) ''Turret front - Sides '' <br> 100-152 mm (cylindrical) ''Gun mantlet'' <br> 200 mm ''MG port'' || 89 mm (5-9°) || 89 mm ''Bustle'' <br> 89 mm (17-22°) ''Turret base'' || 50.8 mm (19°) ''Front'' <br> 29 mm ''Centre'' <br> 50.8 mm (4-32°) ''Peripheral edge''
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=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
−
<!--''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''-->
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<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
{{main|20pdr OQF Mk.I (84 mm)}}
 
{{main|20pdr OQF Mk.I (84 mm)}}
  
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==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
The AP round is good to knock out crew members at it creates spalling. The solid shot does usually more damage inside enemy tanks than the APDS but its penetration power is lesser. When using APDS, target ammo racks (which it will easily set off). Know the weak spots on most vehicles s well as the crew's and modules' positions as you don't have rounds with explosive filler. The APDS shot can penetrate any Panthers' UFP, and also the Ferdinand's and Ho-Ri's frontal armour.
+
The AP round is good to knock out crew members as it creates spalling. The solid shot does usually more damage inside enemy tanks than the APDS but its penetration power is lesser. When using APDS, target ammo racks (which it will easily set off). Know the weak spots on most vehicles s well as the crew's and modules' positions as you don't have rounds with explosive filler. The APDS shot can penetrate any Panthers' UFP, and also the Ferdinand's and Ho-Ri's frontal armour.
  
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:20pdr OQF Mk.I (84 mm)/Ammunition|Shot Mk.1, Shot Mk.3, Shell Mk.1, 20pdr Shell SS Mk.1}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.1 || APCBC || 232 || 229 || 216 || 201 || 187 || 173
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.3 || APDS || 285 || 283 || 262 || 239 || 218 || 198
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shell Mk.1 || HE || 15 || 15 || 15 || 15 || 15 || 15
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.1 || APCBC || 1,000 || 9.1 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.3 || APDS || 1,400 || 3.2 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 75° || 78° || 80°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shell Mk.1 || HE || 600 || 7.5 || 0 || 0.1 || 1,130 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
! colspan="7" | Smoke shell characteristics
 
−
|-
 
−
! Ammunition
 
−
! Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! Screen radius<br>(m)
 
−
! Screen deploy time<br>(s)
 
−
! Screen hold time<br>(s)
 
−
! Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
|-
 
−
| 20pdr Shell SS Mk.1 || 250 || 9.3 || 13 || 5 || 20 || 50
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.1.0.52''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.19.0.76''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! 4th<br>rack empty
 
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
! 5th<br>rack empty
−
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''65''' || 64&nbsp;''(+1)'' || 56&nbsp;''(+9)'' || 48&nbsp;''(+17)'' || 40&nbsp;''(+25)'' || 32&nbsp;''(+33)''
+
| '''65''' || 63&nbsp;''(+2)'' || 61&nbsp;''(+4)'' || 53&nbsp;''(+12)'' || 45&nbsp;''(+20)'' || 37&nbsp;''(+28)''
 
|-
 
|-
 
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
! 6th<br>rack empty
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! 9th<br>rack empty
 
! 9th<br>rack empty
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 +
!
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 12&nbsp;''(+53)'' || 9&nbsp;''(+56)'' || 5&nbsp;''(+60)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+64)'' || No
+
| 29&nbsp;''(+36)'' || 9&nbsp;''(+56)'' || 5&nbsp;''(+60)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+64)'' || No
 +
!
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes''':
  
−
Notes:
+
* Shells are modelled individually and disappear from the rack after having been loaded in the breech.
−
 
+
* Racks 8 and 9 are first stage ammo racks. They total 8 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
−
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear from the rack after having been loaded in the breech.
 
−
* Racks 7, 8 and 9 are first stage ammo racks. They total 11 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
 
−
* These 3 racks are also emptied first when firing: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 7 - 9 - 8 - 1 - 2 until 6.
 
−
* Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from rack 1 then 2 until 6 into racks 9 then 8 and 7. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.
 
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
<!-- Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB). -->
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<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
  
 
;Arcade Battles
 
;Arcade Battles
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In Arcade Battles, it is recommended to take mostly APDS shells, because the gameplay is much more reactive and it's more important to penetrate an enemy vehicle wherever you hit - because you don't have time to aim, or the enemies are very fast-moving due to increased horsepower.
 
In Arcade Battles, it is recommended to take mostly APDS shells, because the gameplay is much more reactive and it's more important to penetrate an enemy vehicle wherever you hit - because you don't have time to aim, or the enemies are very fast-moving due to increased horsepower.
  
−
In terms of game strategies, the Caernarvon is very versatile (almost MBT-like). You can get into sniping positions and rain shells on all enemies that enter your line of sight (or target the more armoured vehicles such as the Ferdinand and the Ho-Ri Production, which are impenetrable to many tanks around 6.7); you can also serve as a breakthrough tank, not because of armour, but because of speed and the stabilizer which allows you to shoot on the move at enemies that dare block your path; or, you can flank, although that role is often taken by much faster vehicles such as Ru 251, BMP-1 and R3.  
+
In terms of game strategies, the Caernarvon is very versatile (almost MBT-like). You can get into sniping positions and rain shells on all enemies that enter your line of sight (or target the more armoured vehicles such as the Ferdinand and the Ho-Ri Production, which are impenetrable to many tanks around 6.7); you can also serve as a breakthrough tank, not because of armour, but because of speed and the stabilizer which allows you to shoot on the move at enemies that dare block your path; or, you can flank, although that role is often taken by much faster vehicles such as Ru 251, BMP-1 and R3.
  
 
To succeed in Arcade, you must learn to use your advantages, most notably the stabilizer and the APDS round. For example, whenever you are in a stand-off with a non-stabilized tank - get into cover, and when they try to drive out to hold your angle, you can also drive out and shoot them, because your gun will be ready to fire faster than theirs, even though they started driving out of cover before you.
 
To succeed in Arcade, you must learn to use your advantages, most notably the stabilizer and the APDS round. For example, whenever you are in a stand-off with a non-stabilized tank - get into cover, and when they try to drive out to hold your angle, you can also drive out and shoot them, because your gun will be ready to fire faster than theirs, even though they started driving out of cover before you.
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In Realistic Battles, most players prefer to take out the solid shot, because it has the potential to damage many more components while maintaining decent penetration values. However, you should take your time to aim this shot, because it will not penetrate some tougher enemies (e.g. Ferdinand, Ho-Ri Production, or IS-3/IS-4), or take some APDS rounds with you.
 
In Realistic Battles, most players prefer to take out the solid shot, because it has the potential to damage many more components while maintaining decent penetration values. However, you should take your time to aim this shot, because it will not penetrate some tougher enemies (e.g. Ferdinand, Ho-Ri Production, or IS-3/IS-4), or take some APDS rounds with you.
  
−
When playing the Caernarvon in Realistic Battles, try to play a supportive role. You don't know where the enemies are, and your armour will not save you from an ambush, so rely on your teammates to lead the way. Here, the sniping strategy is much more viable, because your round velocities are very high, making aiming over 1 km much easier, moreover 10 degrees of depression allow you to play in hilly areas and take pot shots at unsuspecting enemies (especially the Russian tanks, who lack gun depression). You can still push forward with your team because your stabilizer still allows you to take much more accurate reactive shots (or when on the move).
+
When playing the Caernarvon in Realistic Battles, try to play a supportive role. You don't know where the enemies are, and your armour will not save you from an ambush, so rely on your teammates to lead the way. Here, the sniping strategy is much more viable, because your round velocities are very high, making aiming over 1 km much easier, moreover 10 degrees of depression allow you to play in hilly areas and take pot shots at unsuspecting enemies (especially the Soviet tanks, who lack gun depression). You can still push forward with your team because your stabilizer still allows you to take much more accurate reactive shots (or when on the move).
  
 
To succeed in Realistic, you must use cover and let your teammates take the shots. Usually, you will be able to return fire to avenge a teammate, and most of the time you get the kill, due to easy gun handling.
 
To succeed in Realistic, you must use cover and let your teammates take the shots. Usually, you will be able to return fire to avenge a teammate, and most of the time you get the kill, due to easy gun handling.
  
 
=== 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 a 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 a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Same armament as the Centurion Mk 3, has a very good stock round and access to APDS
+
* The Caernarvon is like a beefed up Centurion Mk 3
−
* Very fast reload for a large calibre
+
** Same armament as the Centurion Mk 3, has a very good stock round and access to APDS, no learning curve
 +
** Upper front plate is extremely strong - it has 127 mm thickness at a 60° angle
 +
** Hull roof and most of the turret roof is 51 mm thick, so it will sustain heavy tank HE
 +
* Gun reloads a bit faster than enemies with the same calibre
 
* Fast turret and hull traverse
 
* Fast turret and hull traverse
 
* Good acceleration
 
* Good acceleration
−
* The Caernarvon plays like a beefed up Centurion Mk 3
 
 
* Brake system is very responsive
 
* Brake system is very responsive
 
* Access to gun stabilizer
 
* Access to gun stabilizer
−
* Wider tracks enables the Caernarvon to navigate through bad terrain much better than the Centurion Mk 3
+
* Extremely strong gun mantlet
−
* While a heavy tank, still has many weak spots in its armour
+
* Armour profile on the turret face is inconsistent - enemies think twice before firing
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Lower glacis is still a weak spot
+
* Although it is designated as a heavy tank, the Centurion turret sabotages its armour and it will be destroyed almost on autopilot by anyone familiar with the Centurion weakspots (almost everybody at this point)
−
* Large ammo rack behind LFP (Can be removed by bringing less than 34 shells)
+
* Lower glacis is still a weak spot, roof still can be breached by artillery tanks
−
* APDS shot does punctual damage
+
* Large ammo rack behind LFP (can be removed by bringing less than 34 shells)
−
* No explosive filler in any shells
+
* APDS shot has little post-penetrative spalling
 +
* No explosive filler in any regular shells
 
* Weak side armour, should not be exposed in any way when engaging an enemy
 
* Weak side armour, should not be exposed in any way when engaging an enemy
 
* Top armour covering the engine is still only 8 mm
 
* Top armour covering the engine is still only 8 mm
 +
* HEATFS shells can often easily penetrate the armour, even from the front
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too 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 vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 
===Development===
 
===Development===
−
In 1944, General Staff started a project called ''A45 Infantry Support Tank'', which started around the same time as the development of the [[Centurion Mk 3|A41 Centurion]] cruiser tank. This project, after the war, was redesignated from a typical "Infantry Tank" and instead focused on a new role of a "Universal Tank" design in the form of the FV 200 series. The "Universal Tank" concept was to design a vehicle that would have a mobility comparable to that of cruiser tanks, but with the armour and firepower of heavy tanks. The FV 200 series designation was adopted and was to serve as a line of vehicles that used the same hull and chassis in different roles like armour recovery vehicles and self-propelled guns. The first tank of this series was to be the FV 201, which would be 55 tons and had the 20-pounder gun.
+
In 1944, General Staff started a project called ''A45 Infantry Support Tank'', which started around the same time as the development of the [[Centurion Mk 3|A41 Centurion]] cruiser tank. This project, after the war, was redesignated from a typical "Infantry Tank" and instead focused on a new role of a "Universal Tank" design in the form of the FV 200 series. The "Universal Tank" concept was to design a vehicle that would have a mobility comparable to that of cruiser tanks, but with the armour and firepower of heavy tanks. The FV 200 series designation was adopted and was to serve as a line of vehicles that used the same hull and chassis in different roles like armour recovery vehicles and self-propelled guns. The first tank of this series was to be the FV 201, which would be 55 tons and had the 20-pounder gun.
  
−
In 1949, a new requirement for the project called for the use of a 120 mm gun, possibly in response to the reveal of the Soviet [[IS-3]] heavy tank in the Berlin Victory Parade in 1945. This new requirement would delay the initial deadlines for the tank as no gun of that caliber had been developed yet. As a interim development before such a gun could be made, the FV 201 hull was mounted with a turret from a Centurion Mk.2, which had a 17-pounder gun. This Centurion turret mated FV 201 tank was designated the '''FV 221 Caernavon''', with a ''Mark I'' for the 17-pounder. The later combination of the [[Centurion Mk 3]] turret instead of the Mk.2 upped the armament of the tank to the more powerful 20-pounder gun, this version named the ''Mark II''. About 21 units of the Caernarvon Mark II was made in this method.
+
In 1949, a new requirement for the project called for the use of a 120 mm gun, possibly in response to the reveal of the Soviet [[IS-3]] heavy tank in the Berlin Victory Parade in 1945. This new requirement would delay the initial deadlines for the tank as no gun of that calibre had been developed yet. As a interim development before such a gun could be made, the FV 201 hull was mounted with a turret from a Centurion Mk.2, which had a 17-pounder gun. This Centurion turret mated FV 201 tank was designated the '''FV 221 Caernavon''', with a ''Mark I'' for the 17-pounder. The later combination of the [[Centurion Mk 3]] turret instead of the Mk.2 upped the armament of the tank to the more powerful 20-pounder gun, this version named the ''Mark II''. About 21 units of the Caernarvon Mark II was made in this method.
  
 
===Successor===
 
===Successor===
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;Skins
 
;Skins
−
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=britain&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=heavy_tank&vehicle=uk_fv221_caernarvon Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
+
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=uk_fv221_caernarvon Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
;Videos
 
;Videos
−
{{Youtube-gallery|gR3JPNt0iPw|'''Heavyweight brits''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:02 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|9ayZTC2A6Ks|'''T34 vs {{PAGENAME}}''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|Fjh-tTr6TPs|'''Best Combo #2''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 2:00 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|fvOxbA46lZc|'''{{PAGENAME}} - How To Master It - Tank Review''' - ''Napalmratte''|p7ggBFTdxCk|'''{{PAGENAME}} Tank Review''' - ''NUSensei''}}
+
{{Youtube-gallery|gR3JPNt0iPw|'''Heavyweight Brits''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:02 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|9ayZTC2A6Ks|'''T34 vs Caernarvon''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|Fjh-tTr6TPs|'''Best Combo #2''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 2:00 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|fvOxbA46lZc|'''Caernarvon - How To Master It - Tank Review''' - ''Napalmratte''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 237: Line 192:
  
 
;Vehicles equipped with the same chassis
 
;Vehicles equipped with the same chassis
 +
 
* [[Conqueror]]
 
* [[Conqueror]]
  
−
;Vehicles equipped with the same gun
+
;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
−
* [[Charioteer Mk VII]]
 
−
* [[FV4202]]
 
−
* [[Centurion Mk 3]]
 
−
* [[Centurion Action X]]
 
  
−
;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
 
 
* [[T34]]
 
* [[T34]]
  

Latest revision as of 19:57, 25 October 2023

Rank 7 USA
F-5C Pack
Caernarvon
uk_fv221_caernarvon.png
GarageImage Caernarvon.jpg
Caernarvon
Britain flag.png Britain
V Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
7.7 7.7 7.7
Class:
Research:82 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:240 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

In 1949, work on the chassis for the new "Universal Tank" project was nearing completion. However, development of the gun and turret of what would later become the Conqueror was still yet to begin. In order to expedite testing and training, the new hull was fitted with the 20-pounder-equipped turret of the Centurion Mk 3, producing the FV 221 Caernarvon. Units were sent to the British Army of the Rhine, Bovington, Libya, and the Middle East for troop trials, identifying a number of issues with the chassis design. Once the Conqueror finally entered service in 1955, all Caernarvon units were re-equipped with the new turret and served until the Conqueror's replacement in the 1960s.

Introduced along with the initial British ground tree in Update 1.55 "Royal Armour", the Caernarvon is the heavier counterpart to the early Centurion series, featuring the same firepower and gun handling characteristics, alongside thicker armour and surprisingly adequate mobility for its size. The Caernarvon works well in a supportive, sniping role, utilising its highly penetrating and easy-to-aim cannon to disable opponents from afar, while minimising the chance of damage through the thick armour. However, it can also be effective in more urban brawls, taking advantage of the two-plane gun stabilizer, decent protection, and reasonable mobility, making the Caernarvon a very versatile vehicle for any location or situation.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull127 / 51 / 38
Turret152 / 89 / 89
Crew4 people
Visibility139 %

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret roof, cupola roof)
  • Cast homogeneous armour (turret, cupola)
  • Structural steel (side skirts, mudguards, storage boxes)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 127 mm (60°) Upper glacis
76.2 mm (44°) Lower glacis 		50.8 + 4 mm 38.1 mm Upper plate
20 mm (61°) Lower glacis 		127 mm (30°) Front glacis
50.8 mm (0-7°) Driver compartment
18 mm Centre
8 mm Engine vent
8 + 18 mm (7°) Radiator vent
Turret 120 + 152 mm (cylindrical) Turret front - Centre
89-152 mm (5-11°) Turret front - Sides
100-152 mm (cylindrical) Gun mantlet
200 mm MG port 		89 mm (5-9°) 89 mm Bustle
89 mm (17-22°) Turret base 		50.8 mm (19°) Front
29 mm Centre
50.8 mm (4-32°) Peripheral edge
Cupola 152 mm (cylindrical) Base
29 mm (51-75°) Upper part 		152 mm (cylindrical) Front half
90 mm (cylindrical) Rear half 		90 mm (cylindrical) 29 mm

Notes:

  • Suspension wheels and bogies are 20 mm thick while tracks are 30 mm thick.
  • Steel boxes and side skirts located on the hull and turret sides add 4 mm of armour.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB37 / 13 km/h
RB and SB34 / 12 km/h
Number of gears5 forward
2 back
Weight61.0 t
Engine power
AB1 545 hp
RB and SB810 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB25.3 hp/t
RB and SB13.3 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 37 13 61 1046 1,545 17.15 25.33
Realistic 34 12 716 810 11.74 13.28

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 914 → 6 378 Sl icon.png
RB5 249 → 6 813 Sl icon.png
SB7 502 → 9 737 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications68 700 Rp icon.png
117 600 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 900 Ge icon.png
Crew training68 000 Sl icon.png
Experts240 000 Sl icon.png
Aces990 Ge icon.png
Research Aces620 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
140 / 200 / 220 % Sl icon.png
184 / 184 / 184 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
4 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 800 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
3 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
3 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
4 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 300 Sl icon.png
195 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
7 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
7 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 800 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
2 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement uk.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
4 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 300 Sl icon.png
195 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
4 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 800 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
3 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
84mm_britain_20pdr_APDS_ammo_pack
Research:
3 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
4 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 300 Sl icon.png
195 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
4 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 300 Sl icon.png
195 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
84mm_britain_Smoke_ammo_pack
Research:
7 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Main armament

84 mm 20pdr OQF Mk.I cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition65 rounds
First-order8 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
8.1 → 6.3 s
Vertical guidance-10° / 20°
Main article: 20pdr OQF Mk.I (84 mm)
84 mm 20pdr OQF Mk.I Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 65 -10°/+20° ±180° Two-plane 16.18 22.40 27.20 30.08 32.00 8.19 7.25 6.68 6.30
Realistic 11.90 14.00 17.00 18.80 20.00

Ammunition

The AP round is good to knock out crew members as it creates spalling. The solid shot does usually more damage inside enemy tanks than the APDS but its penetration power is lesser. When using APDS, target ammo racks (which it will easily set off). Know the weak spots on most vehicles s well as the crew's and modules' positions as you don't have rounds with explosive filler. The APDS shot can penetrate any Panthers' UFP, and also the Ferdinand's and Ho-Ri's frontal armour.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
Shot Mk.1 APCBC 232 229 216 201 187 173
Shot Mk.3 APDS 384 380 363 343 324 306
Shell Mk.1 HE 15 15 15 15 15 15
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Shot Mk.1 APCBC 1,000 9.1 - - - 48° 63° 71°
Shot Mk.3 APDS 1,430 3.22 - - - 75° 78° 80°
Shell Mk.1 HE 600 7.5 0.2 0.1 1.13 79° 80° 81°
Smoke shell characteristics
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Screen radius
(m) 		Screen deploy
time (s) 		Screen hold
time (s) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
20pdr Shell SS Mk.1 250 9.3 9 5 20 50

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Caernarvon
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty
65 63 (+2) 61 (+4) 53 (+12) 45 (+20) 37 (+28)
6th
rack empty 		7th
rack empty 		8th
rack empty 		9th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
29 (+36) 9 (+56) 5 (+60) 1 (+64) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modelled individually and disappear from the rack after having been loaded in the breech.
  • Racks 8 and 9 are first stage ammo racks. They total 8 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.

Machine guns

7.92 mm BESA machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition3 600 rounds
Belt capacity225 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main article: BESA (7.92 mm)
7.92 mm BESA
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 3,600 (225) 600 N/A N/A

The small calibre of the BESA machine gun makes it largely ineffective against all armoured vehicles but the ones with an open compartment. It still can be used to ping targets as a rangefinding help or to mow down minor obstacles blocking your line of sight.

Usage in battles

Arcade Battles

In Arcade Battles, it is recommended to take mostly APDS shells, because the gameplay is much more reactive and it's more important to penetrate an enemy vehicle wherever you hit - because you don't have time to aim, or the enemies are very fast-moving due to increased horsepower.

In terms of game strategies, the Caernarvon is very versatile (almost MBT-like). You can get into sniping positions and rain shells on all enemies that enter your line of sight (or target the more armoured vehicles such as the Ferdinand and the Ho-Ri Production, which are impenetrable to many tanks around 6.7); you can also serve as a breakthrough tank, not because of armour, but because of speed and the stabilizer which allows you to shoot on the move at enemies that dare block your path; or, you can flank, although that role is often taken by much faster vehicles such as Ru 251, BMP-1 and R3.

To succeed in Arcade, you must learn to use your advantages, most notably the stabilizer and the APDS round. For example, whenever you are in a stand-off with a non-stabilized tank - get into cover, and when they try to drive out to hold your angle, you can also drive out and shoot them, because your gun will be ready to fire faster than theirs, even though they started driving out of cover before you.

Realistic Battles

In Realistic Battles, most players prefer to take out the solid shot, because it has the potential to damage many more components while maintaining decent penetration values. However, you should take your time to aim this shot, because it will not penetrate some tougher enemies (e.g. Ferdinand, Ho-Ri Production, or IS-3/IS-4), or take some APDS rounds with you.

When playing the Caernarvon in Realistic Battles, try to play a supportive role. You don't know where the enemies are, and your armour will not save you from an ambush, so rely on your teammates to lead the way. Here, the sniping strategy is much more viable, because your round velocities are very high, making aiming over 1 km much easier, moreover 10 degrees of depression allow you to play in hilly areas and take pot shots at unsuspecting enemies (especially the Soviet tanks, who lack gun depression). You can still push forward with your team because your stabilizer still allows you to take much more accurate reactive shots (or when on the move).

To succeed in Realistic, you must use cover and let your teammates take the shots. Usually, you will be able to return fire to avenge a teammate, and most of the time you get the kill, due to easy gun handling.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • The Caernarvon is like a beefed up Centurion Mk 3
    • Same armament as the Centurion Mk 3, has a very good stock round and access to APDS, no learning curve
    • Upper front plate is extremely strong - it has 127 mm thickness at a 60° angle
    • Hull roof and most of the turret roof is 51 mm thick, so it will sustain heavy tank HE
  • Gun reloads a bit faster than enemies with the same calibre
  • Fast turret and hull traverse
  • Good acceleration
  • Brake system is very responsive
  • Access to gun stabilizer
  • Extremely strong gun mantlet
  • Armour profile on the turret face is inconsistent - enemies think twice before firing

Cons:

  • Although it is designated as a heavy tank, the Centurion turret sabotages its armour and it will be destroyed almost on autopilot by anyone familiar with the Centurion weakspots (almost everybody at this point)
  • Lower glacis is still a weak spot, roof still can be breached by artillery tanks
  • Large ammo rack behind LFP (can be removed by bringing less than 34 shells)
  • APDS shot has little post-penetrative spalling
  • No explosive filler in any regular shells
  • Weak side armour, should not be exposed in any way when engaging an enemy
  • Top armour covering the engine is still only 8 mm
  • HEATFS shells can often easily penetrate the armour, even from the front

History

Development

In 1944, General Staff started a project called A45 Infantry Support Tank, which started around the same time as the development of the A41 Centurion cruiser tank. This project, after the war, was redesignated from a typical "Infantry Tank" and instead focused on a new role of a "Universal Tank" design in the form of the FV 200 series. The "Universal Tank" concept was to design a vehicle that would have a mobility comparable to that of cruiser tanks, but with the armour and firepower of heavy tanks. The FV 200 series designation was adopted and was to serve as a line of vehicles that used the same hull and chassis in different roles like armour recovery vehicles and self-propelled guns. The first tank of this series was to be the FV 201, which would be 55 tons and had the 20-pounder gun.

In 1949, a new requirement for the project called for the use of a 120 mm gun, possibly in response to the reveal of the Soviet IS-3 heavy tank in the Berlin Victory Parade in 1945. This new requirement would delay the initial deadlines for the tank as no gun of that calibre had been developed yet. As a interim development before such a gun could be made, the FV 201 hull was mounted with a turret from a Centurion Mk.2, which had a 17-pounder gun. This Centurion turret mated FV 201 tank was designated the FV 221 Caernavon, with a Mark I for the 17-pounder. The later combination of the Centurion Mk 3 turret instead of the Mk.2 upped the armament of the tank to the more powerful 20-pounder gun, this version named the Mark II. About 21 units of the Caernarvon Mark II was made in this method.

Successor

The Caernarvon, powerful as it was at the time period, was intended to fulfill the role of the new "Main Battle Tank" concept in the FV 200 series. However, the success of the lighter Centurion cruiser tank made it apparent that the Centurion was more capable in that role than the heavier and less mobile Caernarvon. Thus, this role was not given to the Caernarvon and its design was used instead for further chassis development for future tank development. In 1955, the basis of the Caernarvon was built into the first Conqueror tank. Several Caernarvon Mk.II's were rebuilt into Conqueror Mk. 2 standards in between 1958 and 1959.

Media

Skins
Videos
Heavyweight Brits discusses the Caernarvon at 5:02 - War Thunder Official Channel
T34 vs Caernarvon - War Thunder Official Channel
Best Combo #2 discusses the Caernarvon at 2:00 - War Thunder Official Channel
Caernarvon - How To Master It - Tank Review - Napalmratte

See also

Vehicles equipped with the same chassis
Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links


Britain heavy tanks
Matilda  Matilda III · Matilda Hedgehog
Churchill  Churchill I · Churchill III · Churchill VII · Churchill Crocodile · Churchill NA75 · Black Prince
Post-war  Caernarvon · Conqueror
Other  Independent · Excelsior · TOG II

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