Difference between revisions of "F8F-1B (France)"

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{{Specs-Card|code=f8f1b_france}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = naval fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = naval fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
Line 6: Line 5:
 
| link-1 = F8F-1
 
| link-1 = F8F-1
 
| link-2 = F8F-1B
 
| link-2 = F8F-1B
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=f8f1b_france
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_F8F-1BFrance.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
Shortly after WWII, France was in dire need of relatively modern military equipment, since conflicts in their colonies started to become more and more violent. Many allied nations like the US and Great Britain supplied France with surplus military vehicles left after WWII, like M4 Shermans, Spitfires, and other vehicles. The '''F8F-1B Bearcat''' was one of these aircraft, designed with the lessons learned during the Battle of Midway, it was developed too late to enter WWII. 200 were sent to France; even though they were already obsolete for 1951, they were enough to deal with small groups of guerrilla fighters like the Viet Minh, because they did not have access to any kind of air force. The Bearcats were used only in close air support.
−
{{break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} French naval fighter {{Battle-rating}}. This aircraft was introduced in [[Update 1.73 "Vive la France"]].
+
It was introduced in [[Update 1.73 "Vive la France"]]. The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a very competent multirole fighter, with the ability to carry a large payload of bombs and rockets while still being competitive in air to air combat. It uses the same engine as the F6F-5 but in a much lighter airframe, which translates into a higher top speed and much better rate of climb, being better in this sense than all previous carrier-borne fighters of the US, like the F4F and F6F, or even the F-4U Corsair. In air battles, a good idea is climbing to high altitude at the start of the match, then diving into unsuspecting enemies or intercepting aircraft climbing slower than you. Since the Bearcat uses 20 mm cannons instead of conventional 12.7 mm HMGs, it is also better suited to dealing with large enemy bombers.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== 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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
−
|-
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
−
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
+
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,268 m)
−
|-
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
−
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="2" |Max Speed (km/h at 4,268 m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
−
|-
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
|-
 
−
| 669 || 650 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 20.4 || 20.8 || 19.3 || 19.3 || 220
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,268 m)
+
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB
+
! Stock
−
! RB
+
| 672 || 647 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 20.1 || 20.8 || 19.3 || 19.3 || rowspan="2" | 220
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 752 || 708 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 17.8 || 19.0 || 37.5 || 24.8 || 220
+
! Upgraded
 +
| 752 || 708 || 18.0 || 19.0 || 32.8 || 24.8
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
====Details====
+
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flap
+
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
−
! Take-off flap
 
−
! Landing flap
 
−
! Air brakes
 
−
! Arrestor gear
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| X || X || X || X || X     <!-- ✓ -->
+
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓     <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | Limits
+
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
+
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
−
! +
+
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
−
! -
 
−
|-
 
−
| {{Specs|разрушение|конструкции}} || {{Specs|разрушение|шасси}} || ??? || ~?? || ~?
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
+
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 616 || 585 || 427 || ~10 || ~5
−
|-
 
−
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
−
|-
 
−
| < ??? || < ??? || < ??? || > ???
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
+
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| ?,??? m || ??? hp || ?,??? hp
 
−
|-
 
−
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Optimal altitude
+
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
+
| < 465 || < 466 || < 600 || > 460
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 
−
|- -->
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
  
 
* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot.
 
* 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot.
 
* 9.5 mm Steel plates on pilot's seat.
 
* 9.5 mm Steel plates on pilot's seat.
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|AN/M3 (20 mm)}}
+
{{main|M3 (20 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* 4 x 20 mm [[AN/M3 (20 mm)|AN/M3]] cannon, wing-mounted (188 outer + 225 inner rpg each wing = 826 total)
+
* 4 x 20 mm M3 cannons, wing-mounted (188 outer + 225 inner rpg each wing = 826 total)
  
−
The four machine guns are arranged in bundles of two mounted in each wing. Each machine gun bundle are armed with 188 rounds of ammunition in one cannon and 225 rounds in the other, which means that two guns (one in each wing) will run out of ammo before the other two if fired until empty.
+
The four cannons are arranged in bundles of two mounted in each wing. Each cannon bundle is armed with 188 rounds of ammunition in one cannon and 225 rounds in the other, which means that two guns (one in each wing) will run out of ammo before the other two if fired until empty.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|HVAR|Tiny Tim|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)}}
 
−
{{main|Browning M2 (12.7 mm)}}
 
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! !! width="13%" | 1 !! width="13%" | 2 !! width="13%" | 3
 +
| rowspan="7" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_F8F-1.png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[M2 Browning (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm M2 Browning]] machine guns (340 rpg)
 +
| 2 || || 2
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|500 lb AN-M64A1]] bombs
 +
| 1 || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb AN-M65A1]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[M116A2 incendiary]] bombs
 +
| 1 || || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[HVAR]] rockets
 +
| 2 || || 2
 +
|-
 +
! [[Tiny Tim]] rockets
 +
| 1 || || 1
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
  
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
−
* 4 х 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, suspended (340 rpg = 1360 total)
+
* 4 x HVAR rockets
 
* 2 x Tiny Tim rockets
 
* 2 x Tiny Tim rockets
−
* 4 x HVAR rockets
+
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
−
* 4 x HVAR rockets + 1 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb
+
* 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
−
* 1 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb
+
* 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns (340 rpg = 1,360 total)
−
* 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 1 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb
+
* 2 x M116A2 incendiary bombs
−
* 3 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs
+
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
<!-- ''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 instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
+
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
'''In AB''', the F8F-1B can perform at its prime, which is, accordingly, remarkably. Due to the lack of damage due to overheating and such, the F8F-1B can easily outstrip any piston-engined fighter in a climb once upgraded. Prior to the engine-injection upgrade, the 1B performs very well, but not as sublimely as it does with the latter modification. Thus, climbing and BnZ match perfectly with the F8F-1B in AB due to its astounding climb rate, speed, acceleration, and weaponry.
+
In Arcade battles the F8F-1B can perform at its prime, which is, accordingly, remarkably. Due to the lack of damage due to overheating and such, the F8F-1B can easily outstrip any piston-engined fighter in a climb once upgraded. Prior to the engine-injection upgrade, the 1B performs very well, but not as sublimely as it does with the latter modification. Thus, climbing and BnZ match perfectly with the F8F-1B in AB due to its astounding climb rate, speed, acceleration, and weaponry.
  
 
Regarding weaponry, fire in very short bursts with the M3 20mm because they will jam rather quickly. The most ideal belt is Air Targets, as the belt has - together with the stealth belt, but the Air Targets belt has instead of a practice shell an API-T shell - the most HEF-I shells.
 
Regarding weaponry, fire in very short bursts with the M3 20mm because they will jam rather quickly. The most ideal belt is Air Targets, as the belt has - together with the stealth belt, but the Air Targets belt has instead of a practice shell an API-T shell - the most HEF-I shells.
  
−
'''In RB''', the F8F-1B is a monster. It possesses a fantastic climb rate, roll rate, high-capacity armament, and flight performance. Top speed and level speed are top notch in this aircraft, as is the dive-speed tolerance (~800 kph). Unfortunately, this power comes at a great price. Called the "Ovencat" by some players, the F8F-1B's engine will overheat in less than a minute while utilizing WEP. It is not recommended for any pilot to use WEP UNTIL unlocking the "Radiator" modification!. Therefore, always side-climb at the beginning of a match as the 1B needs all the energy it can get, especially when facing opponents such as the FW-190 D which can out-climb an F8F-1B in continuous climb due to the lower thermal restraints of its Junkers engine.
+
In RB, the F8F-1B is a monster. It possesses a fantastic climb rate, roll rate, high-capacity armament, and flight performance. Top speed and level speed are top notch in this aircraft, as is the dive-speed tolerance (~800 km/h). Unfortunately, this power comes at a great price. Called the "Ovencat" by some players, the F8F-1B's engine will overheat in less than a minute while utilizing WEP. It is not recommended for any pilot to use WEP UNTIL unlocking the "Radiator" modification!. Therefore, always side-climb at the beginning of a match as the 1B needs all the energy it can get, especially when facing opponents such as the FW-190 D which can out-climb an F8F-1B in continuous climb due to the lower thermal restraints of its Junkers engine.
  
 
The F8F-1B suffers at altitudes over 6,500 m. Below that, of course, utilize Boom & Zoom as your main tactic. Acceleration is magnificent as is dive speed. You will find it rather difficult to rip your wings in a dive. Careful not to push the Bearcat too far, though, as rolling manoeuvres and fast-paced moves can easily rip its wings.
 
The F8F-1B suffers at altitudes over 6,500 m. Below that, of course, utilize Boom & Zoom as your main tactic. Acceleration is magnificent as is dive speed. You will find it rather difficult to rip your wings in a dive. Careful not to push the Bearcat too far, though, as rolling manoeuvres and fast-paced moves can easily rip its wings.
Line 181: Line 158:
 
Turning is not recommended in RB due to the 1B's mediocre turn rate.
 
Turning is not recommended in RB due to the 1B's mediocre turn rate.
  
−
===Manual Engine Control===
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 192: Line 169:
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Oil
+
! Oil !! Water !! Type
−
! Water
 
−
! Type
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
===Modules===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 
−
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage Repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| DGP-1
 
−
| Offensive 12 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
| FRC mk.2
 
−
| New 12 mm MGs
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings Repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| LFRC mk.12
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| G-Suit
 
−
| Engine Injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| FLBC mk.1
 
−
| 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. 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".'' -->
+
<!-- ''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:'''
  
 
* Excellent dive speed
 
* Excellent dive speed
−
* Good maneuverability in moderate to high speeds
+
* Good manoeuvrability in moderate to high speeds
 
* Fast acceleration
 
* Fast acceleration
−
* Can support high G's in sharp turns and has a G-suit upgrade available
+
* Can support high Gs in sharp turns and has a G-suit upgrade available
 
* Powerful armament, high ammo count
 
* Powerful armament, high ammo count
−
* Great roll rate compared to planes such as the BF-109
+
* Great roll rate compared to planes such as the Bf 109
 
* Respectable climb rate up to 5 km
 
* Respectable climb rate up to 5 km
 
* Excellent bomb capacity
 
* Excellent bomb capacity
Line 253: Line 192:
  
 
* Engine overheats when not using MEC
 
* Engine overheats when not using MEC
−
* Lackluster engine performance above 5 km
+
* Lacklustre engine performance above 5 km
−
* AN/M3 cannons jam in barely three seconds unless it's modified
+
* M3 cannons jam in barely three seconds unless it's modified
 
* Ground loops if landing with full brakes
 
* Ground loops if landing with full brakes
 
* Sluggish controls at speeds less than 300 km/h
 
* Sluggish controls at speeds less than 300 km/h
Line 260: Line 199:
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
The Bearcat was the direct descendant of the famous Hellcat. Indeed, in the summer of 1943 a team of engineers from Grumman began, at the request of the American authorities, the study of the replacement of the Hellcat. It was the project called G58 which would use the same engine as its predecessor, the very good Pratt & Whitney R-2800 double Wasp. The aircraft was very light and its armament was reduced compared to its predecessor. Indeed for it to be more efficient it had a lighter cell to gain maneuverability and ascent speed.
+
<!-- ''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).'' -->
  
−
Its intended function was a light interceptor on board an escort light aircraft carrier
+
=== Development ===
 +
The concept of the G-58 (the Grumman designation for what would become the F8F Bearcat) began on 23 June, 1942. The Vice President of Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation Jake Swirbul met with F4F Wildcat pilots that had fought in the Battle of Midway. Jimmie Thatch - one of the pilots - emphasized the fact that climb rate is one of the most important characteristics of a good plane.
  
−
Grumman engineers therefore studied the lightest possible cell capable of accepting the heavy weight of the double Wasp R-2800 W engine. The Americans always had in mind the performance of the Japanese Zero, which were light and well-motorized and which were the surprise at the start of the Pacific War. It was therefore important that the new aircraft beat the Japanese on their own terrain : maneuverability ; even sacrificing the usual strengths of the Hellcat: armament and protection.
+
Climb rate is linked to power-to-weight ratio, so to increase climb rate a powerful engine and small, lightweight airframe are necessary. Not only would the G-58 have to have a good climb rate, but it also needed to be able to operate from escort carriers, which the F6F Hellcat was too large to operate from, and as such only the obsolete F4F Wildcat could operate from the escort carriers. A small, light aircraft could accomplish both goals; it could operate from the escort carriers and it could have a good climb rate. Grumman began developing the G-58 Bearcat in late 1943, after studying carrier warfare in the Pacific for a year and a half.
  
−
Two prototypes were ordered on November 27, 1943 called XF8F-1. The first flight took place on August 31, 1944 only nine months after the order. The tests went perfectly even if it was necessary to modify the drift to resolve a certain instability in flight, especially in yaw.
+
It is thought by some that the FW-190 influenced the design of the G-58, but it has never been confirmed, and it's still up for debate. The Grumman test pilots flew and examined a captured FW-190 in 1943 in England, and the G-58 also has a number of features very similar to the FW-190 such as the landing gear and cowling arrangements, but there is no hard evidence that the data from the testing of the FW-190 was used to develop the G-58.
  
−
The F8-F1 "Bearcat" arrived too late to participate in the battles of the Second World War, but they were however embarked on the US aircraft carriers.
+
=== F8F-1B ===
 +
The F8F-1B was an improvement over the F8F-1 Bearcat. The armament of the F8F-1 (four 12.7 mm machine guns) was changed to four 20 mm cannons on the F8F-1B. That was the only major difference between the two models.
 +
 
 +
=== Service ===
 +
The First Indochina War of 1946-1954 was the conflict which would first test the Bearcat in combat. In 1951, 200 Bearcats were delivered to France, and the French Bearcats were used extensively during the First Indochina War.
 +
 
 +
== Media ==
 +
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
  
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These planes, which are particularly well studied, are considered to be the best piston engine fighters of all time, even if they have never been in combat on the American side.
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;Skins
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[[File:French F8f.jpg|thumb|329x329px]]
 
  
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The first Bearcat (44 ex.) Arrived in Saigon on 07/02/1951 aboard the aircraft carrier "Windham Bay". The second delivery (46 ex.) Took place on 03/25/1951 by the aircraft carrier "Sitkoh Bay". The whole joined Parc 482 de Bien Hoa for destocking. Other deliveries to the Air Force were made in 1952 and 1953 bringing the total to 209 copies, it was F8F1 / F8F1B. The aircraft were either equipped with machine guns or cannons, which explains the two names, version "B" corresponding to the cannon version. These weapons were easily recognizable because if the machine guns were completely embedded in the wings, the guns protruded from the leading edge.
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=f8f1b_france Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
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The main criticism of the Bearcat was their relatively low autonomy, for this the devices intended for France were modified so that the arming pylons could also receive additional releasable tanks, the versions delivered had a designation US F8-F1D and F8- F1BD.
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;Videos
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[[File:Bearcat of GC 3-6 crashed to Haiphong in 1951..jpg|thumb|200x200px]]
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{{Youtube-gallery|4v3fxupuZPA|'''Last piston fighters''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:28 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|PNkoJ-MFERc|'''Best naval fighters''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 2:24 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|ceCcHSoUiLE|'''French F8F-1B [Jet Killer!]''' - ''Jengar''}}
  
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During the battles in Indochina the Bearcat were used as support plane and they gave full satisfaction for this use. Many accidents were deplored, many on takeoff or landing, often without too much seriousness for the pilot, which was not the case for combat accidents where many pilots died ...
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== 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;''
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
  
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The last Bearcat were returned to the United States either delivered to Vietnam or Thailand in late July 1956.
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;Related development
  
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== Media ==
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* [[F8F (Family)]]
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''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
 
  
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== See also ==
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;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
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''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
  
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* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
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* [[F6F (Family)]]
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
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<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* ''other literature.'' -->
  
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* [http://www.wwiiaircraftperformance.org/F8F/F8F-1_Standard_Aircraft_Characteristics.pdf Standard Aircraft Characteristics of the F8F-1]
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* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
 
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* ''other literature.''
 
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Grumman}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Grumman}}
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{{French fighters}}
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{{France fighters}}

Latest revision as of 11:00, 26 December 2023

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
This page is about the naval fighter F8F-1B (France). For other versions, see F8F-1 and F8F-1B.
▄F8F-1B
f8f1b_france.png
GarageImage F8F-1B (France).jpg
ArtImage F8F-1B (France).png
▄F8F-1B
France flag.png France
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
6.3 6.3 6.3
Class:
Research:54 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:185 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

Shortly after WWII, France was in dire need of relatively modern military equipment, since conflicts in their colonies started to become more and more violent. Many allied nations like the US and Great Britain supplied France with surplus military vehicles left after WWII, like M4 Shermans, Spitfires, and other vehicles. The F8F-1B Bearcat was one of these aircraft, designed with the lessons learned during the Battle of Midway, it was developed too late to enter WWII. 200 were sent to France; even though they were already obsolete for 1951, they were enough to deal with small groups of guerrilla fighters like the Viet Minh, because they did not have access to any kind of air force. The Bearcats were used only in close air support.

It was introduced in Update 1.73 "Vive la France". The ▄F8F-1B Bearcat is a very competent multirole fighter, with the ability to carry a large payload of bombs and rockets while still being competitive in air to air combat. It uses the same engine as the F6F-5 but in a much lighter airframe, which translates into a higher top speed and much better rate of climb, being better in this sense than all previous carrier-borne fighters of the US, like the F4F and F6F, or even the F-4U Corsair. In air battles, a good idea is climbing to high altitude at the start of the match, then diving into unsuspecting enemies or intercepting aircraft climbing slower than you. Since the Bearcat uses 20 mm cannons instead of conventional 12.7 mm HMGs, it is also better suited to dealing with large enemy bombers.

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Max speed
at 4 268 m708 km/h
Turn time19 s
Max altitude10 900 m
EnginePratt & Whitney R-2800-34W
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight6 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 4,268 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 672 647 10900 20.1 20.8 19.3 19.3 220
Upgraded 752 708 18.0 19.0 32.8 24.8

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
827 340 616 585 427 ~10 ~5
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 465 < 466 < 600 > 460

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural827 km/h
Gear340 km/h
  • 60 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot.
  • 9.5 mm Steel plates on pilot's seat.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB2 505 → 3 354 Sl icon.png
RB6 019 → 8 059 Sl icon.png
SB9 105 → 12 191 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications47 000 Rp icon.png
85 500 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 500 Ge icon.png
Crew training52 000 Sl icon.png
Experts185 000 Sl icon.png
Aces940 Ge icon.png
Research Aces480 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
110 / 220 / 470 % Sl icon.png
166 / 166 / 166 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 500 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 500 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
2 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
2 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 600 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 600 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 600 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods napalm fire bomb.png
M116A2
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 500 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods gunpods.png
DGP-1
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 500 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_belt_pack
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 500 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
FRC mk.2
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
bmg50_new_gun
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
LFRC mk.12
Research:
2 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
anm3_belt_pack
Research:
2 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 300 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FLBC mk.1
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 600 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
anm3_new_gun
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 600 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: M3 (20 mm)

The F8F-1B (France) is armed with:

  • 4 x 20 mm M3 cannons, wing-mounted (188 outer + 225 inner rpg each wing = 826 total)

The four cannons are arranged in bundles of two mounted in each wing. Each cannon bundle is armed with 188 rounds of ammunition in one cannon and 225 rounds in the other, which means that two guns (one in each wing) will run out of ammo before the other two if fired until empty.

Suspended armament

The F8F-1B (France) can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3
Hardpoints F8F-1.png
12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns (340 rpg) 2 2
500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs 1 1
1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs 1 1 1
M116A2 incendiary bombs 1 1
HVAR rockets 2 2
Tiny Tim rockets 1 1
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 4 x HVAR rockets
  • 2 x Tiny Tim rockets
  • 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,000 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
  • 4 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns (340 rpg = 1,360 total)
  • 2 x M116A2 incendiary bombs

Usage in battles

In Arcade battles the F8F-1B can perform at its prime, which is, accordingly, remarkably. Due to the lack of damage due to overheating and such, the F8F-1B can easily outstrip any piston-engined fighter in a climb once upgraded. Prior to the engine-injection upgrade, the 1B performs very well, but not as sublimely as it does with the latter modification. Thus, climbing and BnZ match perfectly with the F8F-1B in AB due to its astounding climb rate, speed, acceleration, and weaponry.

Regarding weaponry, fire in very short bursts with the M3 20mm because they will jam rather quickly. The most ideal belt is Air Targets, as the belt has - together with the stealth belt, but the Air Targets belt has instead of a practice shell an API-T shell - the most HEF-I shells.

In RB, the F8F-1B is a monster. It possesses a fantastic climb rate, roll rate, high-capacity armament, and flight performance. Top speed and level speed are top notch in this aircraft, as is the dive-speed tolerance (~800 km/h). Unfortunately, this power comes at a great price. Called the "Ovencat" by some players, the F8F-1B's engine will overheat in less than a minute while utilizing WEP. It is not recommended for any pilot to use WEP UNTIL unlocking the "Radiator" modification!. Therefore, always side-climb at the beginning of a match as the 1B needs all the energy it can get, especially when facing opponents such as the FW-190 D which can out-climb an F8F-1B in continuous climb due to the lower thermal restraints of its Junkers engine.

The F8F-1B suffers at altitudes over 6,500 m. Below that, of course, utilize Boom & Zoom as your main tactic. Acceleration is magnificent as is dive speed. You will find it rather difficult to rip your wings in a dive. Careful not to push the Bearcat too far, though, as rolling manoeuvres and fast-paced moves can easily rip its wings.

The M3 20 mm cannons have an extremely fast fire rate and thus may drain your ammunition storage rather quickly. However, the massive 826 round storage should be plenty for quite a lot of battling in the skies!

The F8F-1B can also be used as an effective fighter-bomber. It can carry a large payload of Tiny Tims, bombs, and assorted rockets, making it an effective attacker.

Turning is not recommended in RB due to the 1B's mediocre turn rate.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent dive speed
  • Good manoeuvrability in moderate to high speeds
  • Fast acceleration
  • Can support high Gs in sharp turns and has a G-suit upgrade available
  • Powerful armament, high ammo count
  • Great roll rate compared to planes such as the Bf 109
  • Respectable climb rate up to 5 km
  • Excellent bomb capacity

Cons:

  • Engine overheats when not using MEC
  • Lacklustre engine performance above 5 km
  • M3 cannons jam in barely three seconds unless it's modified
  • Ground loops if landing with full brakes
  • Sluggish controls at speeds less than 300 km/h
  • Dumps velocity in high-G turns

History

Development

The concept of the G-58 (the Grumman designation for what would become the F8F Bearcat) began on 23 June, 1942. The Vice President of Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation Jake Swirbul met with F4F Wildcat pilots that had fought in the Battle of Midway. Jimmie Thatch - one of the pilots - emphasized the fact that climb rate is one of the most important characteristics of a good plane.

Climb rate is linked to power-to-weight ratio, so to increase climb rate a powerful engine and small, lightweight airframe are necessary. Not only would the G-58 have to have a good climb rate, but it also needed to be able to operate from escort carriers, which the F6F Hellcat was too large to operate from, and as such only the obsolete F4F Wildcat could operate from the escort carriers. A small, light aircraft could accomplish both goals; it could operate from the escort carriers and it could have a good climb rate. Grumman began developing the G-58 Bearcat in late 1943, after studying carrier warfare in the Pacific for a year and a half.

It is thought by some that the FW-190 influenced the design of the G-58, but it has never been confirmed, and it's still up for debate. The Grumman test pilots flew and examined a captured FW-190 in 1943 in England, and the G-58 also has a number of features very similar to the FW-190 such as the landing gear and cowling arrangements, but there is no hard evidence that the data from the testing of the FW-190 was used to develop the G-58.

F8F-1B

The F8F-1B was an improvement over the F8F-1 Bearcat. The armament of the F8F-1 (four 12.7 mm machine guns) was changed to four 20 mm cannons on the F8F-1B. That was the only major difference between the two models.

Service

The First Indochina War of 1946-1954 was the conflict which would first test the Bearcat in combat. In 1951, 200 Bearcats were delivered to France, and the French Bearcats were used extensively during the First Indochina War.

Media

Skins
Videos
Last piston fighters discusses the F8F-1B (France) at 5:28 - War Thunder Official Channel
Best naval fighters discusses the F8F-1B (France) at 2:24 - War Thunder Official Channel
French F8F-1B [Jet Killer!] - Jengar

See also

Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links


Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation
Aircraft 
Fighters 
F3F  F3F-2 · Galer's F3F-2
F4F Wildcat  F4F-3 · F4F-4
XF5F Skyrocket  XF5F · XP-50
F6F Hellcat  F6F-5 · F6F-5N
F7F Tigercat  F7F-1 · F7F-3
F8F Bearcat  F8F-1 · F8F-1B
Jet Fighters 
F9F Panther/Cougar  F9F-2 · F9F-5 · F9F-8
F-11 Tiger  F11F-1
F-14 Tomcat  F-14A Early · F-14B
Jet Strike Aircraft 
A-6 Intruder  A-6E TRAM
Bombers  TBF-1C
Export  ▄Martlet Mk IV · ▄F6F-5 · ▄F6F-5N · ▄F8F-1B · ▄Avenger Mk II · ▄Hellcat Mk II
  ▄F-14A IRIAF
Naval Vehicles 
Patrol Gunboat Hydrofoil (PGH)  USS Flagstaff

France fighters
Dewoitine  D.371 · D.371 H.S.9 · D.373 · D.500 · D.501 · Pallier's D.510 · D.520
Morane-Saulnier  M.S.405C1 · M.S.406C1 · M.S.410
Arsenal  V.G.33C-1
Bloch  M.B.152C1 · M.B.157
Caudron  C.R.714
Sud-Ouest  S.O.8000 Narval
American  H-75A-1 · H-75A-4 · ▄P-39Q-25 · ▄P-40F-5 Lafayette · ▄P-47D-22-RE · ▄P-63C-5 · F-6C-10-NA
  ▄F6F-5 · ▄F6F-5N · F4U-7 · ▄F8F-1B
Other countries  ▄Seafire LF Mk.III · ▄Yak-3 · Challe's ▄Yak-9T · NC.900
Belgium  ▄Gladiator Mk I · ▄Spitfire FR Mk XIVe
Netherlands  ◘Sea Fury FB 51

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