Difference between revisions of "P-63C-5 (France)"

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{{Specs-Card|code=p-63c-5_france}}
+
{{About
 +
|about= French fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
|usage= other versions
 +
|link= P-63 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=p-63c-5_france
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 +
|cockpit=cockpit_p-63c-5_france.jpg
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
''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.''
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
Most P-63s never saw use with the USAF, and instead were sent to Allied nations like the USSR. France operated a total of 114 aircraft ordered from the United States shortly before the end of WWII. These aircraft were mostly used against the Viet Minh in the French Indochina War of 1947, replacing the outdated Spitfires donated by the RAF. Since the Viet Minh lacked any kind of air force, France used the P-63s as ground attackers. For this, the aircraft was adapted to carry napalm bomb. However, the aircraft soon started to suffer from high casualties against Viet Minh AA guns, and with the arrival of surplus F6F, F8Fs, and F4Us, the P-63C was retired from service in Indochina.
 +
 
 +
It was introduced in [[Update 1.73 "Vive la France"]]. The aircraft is a high altitude interceptor/energy fighter, with its turn radius slightly better than before. The quick dive speed and high energy retention allows the player, with the correct altitude, to engage opponents below numerous times using the high yo-yo method. This aircraft can be used to some success in ground battles thanks to its access to 3 x 500 lb bombs, however more conventional bombers like the [[SB2C-5 (France)|SB2C-5]] are more suited for this task. There is an identical variant in the US tree - {{Specs-Link|p-63c-5}}. The key difference is in the fact that the French variant has access to the [[Incendiary weapons#Incendiary bombs|incendiary bombs]], while the US model doesn't.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== 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.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 +
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,572 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 +
|-
 +
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 +
|-
 +
! Stock
 +
| 627 || 609 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.2 || 25.1 || 16.8 || 16.8 || rowspan="2" | 289
 +
|-
 +
! Upgraded
 +
| 710 || 663 || 22.3 || 23.0 || 29.0 || 21.7
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Details ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | Features
 +
|-
 +
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
 +
|-
 +
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | Limits
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
 +
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 +
|-
 +
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 +
|-
 +
| 887 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 378 || 359 || 262 || ~12 || ~6
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 410 || < 380 || < 410 || > 420
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and 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. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
+
{{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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* 12.7 mm Steel plate in front of the engine.
 +
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of pilot.
 +
* 19.05 mm Steel plate behind 37 mm autocannon / in front of the pilot.
 +
* 15.87 mm Steel plates in front of pilot's feet.
 +
* 6.35 mm Steel plates on cockpit doors.
 +
* 12.7 mm Steel plate behind pilot's top body.
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
Tier I would be best started with either Radiator or Offensive 12 mm. Tier II would be best-started with Compressor, due to it's increase in rate of climb, followed by either Airframe (for construction strength and rate of climb) or FMBC mk.1 (for additional experience from destroying ground targets in both: air and ground battles). Tier III would be best-started with Engine followed by either Wings repair or Offensive 37 mm. The best choice in the Tier IV is the Engine injection due to the huge increase in engine power making a significant difference in climb and turn rate. From there on continue through the remaining modifications.
 +
 
 +
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 +
=== 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.'' -->
 +
{{main|M10 (37 mm)|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 +
 
 +
* 1 x 37 mm M10 cannon, nose-mounted (58 rpg)
 +
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (250 rpg = 500 total)
 +
* 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
 +
 
 +
=== 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.'' -->
 +
{{main|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|Mk 78 incendiary}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 
 +
* Without load
 +
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 +
* 3 x Mk 78 incendiary bombs
 +
 
 +
== 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 P-63C-5 is a superb energy fighter, especially at low-to-mid altitudes, with a very respectable turn performance. Its extremely high top speed and climb rate at low altitudes, along with good turn performance, allow it to out-energy most opponents, especially if care is taken to lure them into high-speed fights, where most opponents will lose their energy much more quickly than the P-63.
 +
 
 +
While better at altitude than the P-39 from which it was developed, the P-63 loses much of its performance edge around 3,000-4,000 m compared to its main competitor, the BF-109F, along with many other air superiority fighters. If you find yourself in a dogfight at altitude with such an aircraft, try to lure them to a lower altitude where you can better leverage your performance advantages. If the situation allows, a shallow dive is often a good technique, as it takes advantage of the airframe's low drag to neutralize any performance deficit relative to most opponents. A steep dive can be useful in a pinch, but allows the canny enemy to retain a defined altitude advantage while staying above you.
 +
 
 +
The M2s are strong machine guns with a relatively long range. While effective out past 500 m, especially against relatively slow targets, care should be taken when firing relative to many other M2-carrying fighters due to the relatively low number of rounds per gun. Remember that you out-speed most opponents, so burning ammo to spook fleeing opponents isn't always necessary.
 +
 
 +
The 37 mm M10 cannon is ridiculously powerful, but not horribly accurate and gains dispersion quickly when burst firing. Aim carefully when firing, and prioritize its use on stalling fighters or larger opponents such as attackers or bombers. A single shot to a wing or fuselage of an enemy plane is often all that it takes to bring it down. Try to wait until you are within a few hundred metres to fire, even at what would be a dead easy shot for a gun or cannon with better velocity and accuracy. Never fire more than a few shots of 37 mm at a time to minimize dispersion and ensure the cannon does not jam.
  
−
== Weaponry ==
+
Head-on attacks are a mixed bag in the P-63. While the Brownings are strong in a head-on due to their high general damage and good accuracy, the P-63 is generally fragile and extremely prone to fires on the wing fuel tanks, which will immediately neutralize you as a threat even if you survive the fire due to massively increased drag and degraded turn performance. The best way to approach head-ons in this fighter is to dodge using your strong roll to stay off-axis relative to your opponent and use your strong performance and turn characteristics to gain the upper hand in the subsequent fight. If confident in your aim, try firing a short burst at around 800 m from your opponent before dodging. With their high velocity, a well-aimed burst from the Brownings can take a naive opponent by surprise, and will often cause critical damage to their plane. The 37 mm is not generally useful in a properly-executed head-on, as its poor accuracy makes it unlikely to land a hit if you break off to dodge at a safe point. Save the ammo for later when you've drained your opponent of their energy and have a clear shot.
−
=== Offensive weaponry ===
 
−
''Describe the offensive weaponry 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.''
 
  
−
=== Suspended weaponry ===
+
While the P-63 excels as an energy fighter, if you find yourself in the position to boom-and-zoom, it is extremely good at doing so. Its high top speed and strong climb enable you to maintain the decisive energy/altitude advantage that defines boom-and-zooming. The P-63's main disadvantage in a high-speed boom manoeuvre is relatively strong elevator control stiffening at speed, which can make lining up a shot difficult. Remember that against most enemies, as long as you are pushing them down in altitude, it is easy to maintain an energy advantage in this plane, so transitioning from a high energy differential with extremely long boom-and-zoom yo-yos to a lower energy differential with tighter loops can be advantageous, as it puts the opponent under more pressure as they have less time to prepare between each of your approaches.
−
''Describe the aircraft's suspended weapons: 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.''
 
  
−
=== Defensive weaponry ===
+
The P-63 can make effective bomber hunter as a typical bomber makes an easy shot, even with the 37 mm. Ensure you set up your runs effectively, as the P-63's fragility means a well-placed burst from the bomber's turrets can easily take you out of the fight. It's often inadvisable to pursue bombers at high altitude due to the P-63's relatively poor performance above 4,000 m. A canny bomber pilot that is above or even at the same altitude as you will simply turn away and rake you with their defensive armament. However, if you find yourself above a bomber, the P-63's speed can enable safe, high-speed runs that will often net easy kills due to the P-63's strong armament.
−
''Defensive weaponry 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.''
 
  
−
== Usage in the battles ==
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
−
''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).''
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 +
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
 +
! colspan="3" | Radiator
 +
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 +
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 +
|-
 +
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 +
|-
 +
| Controllable || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== 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:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Excellent dive speed
 +
* Excellent energy retention
 +
* Better-than-average climb rate
 +
* Good flat out speed
 +
* Good cannon damage
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
 
  
−
== Historical part ==
+
* Average turn time
−
''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/index.php?title=Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''
+
* Worse-than-average performance at low speeds
 +
* Ineffective armament against higher rank aircraft
 +
* Prone to engine damage when being chased
 +
 
 +
== History ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 +
 
 +
The P-63C saw little use with the US Air Force, and most were exported via Lend-Lease to the USSR. However, France also placed an order for 300 P-63C Kingcobras, to be delivered in 1945; of these, 114 aircraft were delivered before the rest of the order was voided, as the US found it unprofitable to continue producing Kingcobras after the war's end. By the time of contract cancellation, 3 full squadrons had converted to the Kingcobra while many more planes weren't ready for service. The first squadron to convert to the P-63 was the II/9 "Auvergne", based in North Africa.
 +
 
 +
The delivery of these aircraft to France caused a diplomatic stir in the United States, where the Lend-Lease program had been subsidized using taxpayer dollars. It was hoped that the aircraft would see service fighting the Luftwaffe in WWII, rather than sit the war out. However, the French soon made good use of their P63C Kingcobras with the outbreak of conflict in French Indochina between 1946-47.
 +
 
 +
The first Kingcobras arrived in 1949, replacing ex-WWII Spitfires that had been donated by the RAF. As the Viet Minh had no air force, the P-63Cs were used as ground attack aircraft, dropping WWII-era 250 lb bombs or non-finned napalm bombs. However, the Viet Minh soon began to receive advanced AA guns from the USSR and China, resulting in a dramatic increase of aircraft loss rates. At one point, the attrition rate reached 25% per year, with 30 aircraft losses between 1949 and 1951. The majority of these aircraft were written off due to flak damage, or were destroyed in runway accidents due to the poor quality of the French airfields. The aircraft were further limited by a lack of spare parts (the US refused to supply any) and a general hostile attitude towards the conflict in the United States.
 +
 
 +
By 1951, the American attitudes changed and began actively supporting the French forces. As a result, the French started receiving surplus F6F, F8F and F4U aircraft from American inventories. By winter of that year, the P-63C Kingcobra had disappeared from service in Indochina. None of the airframes were ever shipped back, and several wrecked aircraft remain in present-day Vietnam. The final French P-63 was retired in 1962, having served as a trainer with the French Air force.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''Прекрасным дополнением к статье станут видеогайды, а также скриншоты из игры и фотографии.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=p-63c-5_france Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
−
== Read also ==
+
;Videos
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
+
{{Youtube-gallery|vark3TkhG7U|'''Sub Request, {{PAGENAME}}. Outnumbered!''' - ''Joseph 2000''|616zWpcg-bY|'''The Plane SO UNDERRATED It Can Carry An Entire Allied Team''' - ''Spit_flyer''|-EyzWeoz_JQ|'''{{PAGENAME}} - Ace Cold Predator''' - ''Napalmratte''}}
 +
 
 +
== 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-39Q-25 (France)]]
−
''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 the Wikipedia;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
 
−
* ''other literature.''
+
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/340956-p-63c-5/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 +
 
 +
{{AirManufacturer Bell}}
 +
{{France fighters}}

Latest revision as of 11:28, 26 December 2023

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the French fighter P-63C-5 (France). For other versions, see P-63 (Family).
▄P-63C-5
p-63c-5_france.png
GarageImage P-63C-5 (France).jpg
ArtImage P-63C-5 (France).jpg
360://https://wiki.warthunder.com/images/5/52/Cockpit_p-63c-5_france.jpg
▄P-63C-5
France flag.png France
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
4.0 4.0 4.7
Class:
Research:26 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:76 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

Most P-63s never saw use with the USAF, and instead were sent to Allied nations like the USSR. France operated a total of 114 aircraft ordered from the United States shortly before the end of WWII. These aircraft were mostly used against the Viet Minh in the French Indochina War of 1947, replacing the outdated Spitfires donated by the RAF. Since the Viet Minh lacked any kind of air force, France used the P-63s as ground attackers. For this, the aircraft was adapted to carry napalm bomb. However, the aircraft soon started to suffer from high casualties against Viet Minh AA guns, and with the arrival of surplus F6F, F8Fs, and F4Us, the P-63C was retired from service in Indochina.

It was introduced in Update 1.73 "Vive la France". The aircraft is a high altitude interceptor/energy fighter, with its turn radius slightly better than before. The quick dive speed and high energy retention allows the player, with the correct altitude, to engage opponents below numerous times using the high yo-yo method. This aircraft can be used to some success in ground battles thanks to its access to 3 x 500 lb bombs, however more conventional bombers like the SB2C-5 are more suited for this task. There is an identical variant in the US tree - P-63C-5. The key difference is in the fact that the French variant has access to the incendiary bombs, while the US model doesn't.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 4 572 m663 km/h
Turn time23 s
Max altitude12 500 m
EngineAllison V-1710-117
TypeInline
Cooling systemWater
Take-off weight5 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 4,572 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 627 609 12500 24.2 25.1 16.8 16.8 289
Upgraded 710 663 22.3 23.0 29.0 21.7

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 + -
887 304 378 359 262 ~12 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 410 < 380 < 410 > 420

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear304 km/h
  • 12.7 mm Steel plate in front of the engine.
  • 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of pilot.
  • 19.05 mm Steel plate behind 37 mm autocannon / in front of the pilot.
  • 15.87 mm Steel plates in front of pilot's feet.
  • 6.35 mm Steel plates on cockpit doors.
  • 12.7 mm Steel plate behind pilot's top body.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB1 005 → 1 297 Sl icon.png
RB2 211 → 2 854 Sl icon.png
SB3 483 → 4 496 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications24 500 Rp icon.png
44 300 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 100 Ge icon.png
Crew training22 000 Sl icon.png
Experts76 000 Sl icon.png
Aces500 Ge icon.png
Research Aces320 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
60 / 150 / 300 % Sl icon.png
142 / 142 / 142 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_belt_pack
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods napalm fire bomb.png
Mk78
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
bmg50_new_gun
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
Rocket Launcher M10
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
m4_belt_pack
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FMBC mk.1
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
m10_new_gun
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png

Tier I would be best started with either Radiator or Offensive 12 mm. Tier II would be best-started with Compressor, due to it's increase in rate of climb, followed by either Airframe (for construction strength and rate of climb) or FMBC mk.1 (for additional experience from destroying ground targets in both: air and ground battles). Tier III would be best-started with Engine followed by either Wings repair or Offensive 37 mm. The best choice in the Tier IV is the Engine injection due to the huge increase in engine power making a significant difference in climb and turn rate. From there on continue through the remaining modifications.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 137 mm M10 cannon
Ammunition58 rounds
Fire rate165 shots/min
Weapon 24 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun
Ammunition900 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
Main articles: M10 (37 mm), M2 Browning (12.7 mm)

The P-63C-5 (France) is armed with:

  • 1 x 37 mm M10 cannon, nose-mounted (58 rpg)
  • 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (250 rpg = 500 total)
  • 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)

Suspended armament

List of setups (5)
Setup 13 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb
Setup 23 x Mk 78 incendiary bomb
Setup 36 x M8 rocket
Setup 41 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bomb
6 x M8 rocket
Setup 51 x Mk 78 incendiary bomb
6 x M8 rocket
Main articles: AN-M64A1 (500 lb), Mk 78 incendiary

The P-63C-5 (France) can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)
  • 3 x Mk 78 incendiary bombs

Usage in battles

The P-63C-5 is a superb energy fighter, especially at low-to-mid altitudes, with a very respectable turn performance. Its extremely high top speed and climb rate at low altitudes, along with good turn performance, allow it to out-energy most opponents, especially if care is taken to lure them into high-speed fights, where most opponents will lose their energy much more quickly than the P-63.

While better at altitude than the P-39 from which it was developed, the P-63 loses much of its performance edge around 3,000-4,000 m compared to its main competitor, the BF-109F, along with many other air superiority fighters. If you find yourself in a dogfight at altitude with such an aircraft, try to lure them to a lower altitude where you can better leverage your performance advantages. If the situation allows, a shallow dive is often a good technique, as it takes advantage of the airframe's low drag to neutralize any performance deficit relative to most opponents. A steep dive can be useful in a pinch, but allows the canny enemy to retain a defined altitude advantage while staying above you.

The M2s are strong machine guns with a relatively long range. While effective out past 500 m, especially against relatively slow targets, care should be taken when firing relative to many other M2-carrying fighters due to the relatively low number of rounds per gun. Remember that you out-speed most opponents, so burning ammo to spook fleeing opponents isn't always necessary.

The 37 mm M10 cannon is ridiculously powerful, but not horribly accurate and gains dispersion quickly when burst firing. Aim carefully when firing, and prioritize its use on stalling fighters or larger opponents such as attackers or bombers. A single shot to a wing or fuselage of an enemy plane is often all that it takes to bring it down. Try to wait until you are within a few hundred metres to fire, even at what would be a dead easy shot for a gun or cannon with better velocity and accuracy. Never fire more than a few shots of 37 mm at a time to minimize dispersion and ensure the cannon does not jam.

Head-on attacks are a mixed bag in the P-63. While the Brownings are strong in a head-on due to their high general damage and good accuracy, the P-63 is generally fragile and extremely prone to fires on the wing fuel tanks, which will immediately neutralize you as a threat even if you survive the fire due to massively increased drag and degraded turn performance. The best way to approach head-ons in this fighter is to dodge using your strong roll to stay off-axis relative to your opponent and use your strong performance and turn characteristics to gain the upper hand in the subsequent fight. If confident in your aim, try firing a short burst at around 800 m from your opponent before dodging. With their high velocity, a well-aimed burst from the Brownings can take a naive opponent by surprise, and will often cause critical damage to their plane. The 37 mm is not generally useful in a properly-executed head-on, as its poor accuracy makes it unlikely to land a hit if you break off to dodge at a safe point. Save the ammo for later when you've drained your opponent of their energy and have a clear shot.

While the P-63 excels as an energy fighter, if you find yourself in the position to boom-and-zoom, it is extremely good at doing so. Its high top speed and strong climb enable you to maintain the decisive energy/altitude advantage that defines boom-and-zooming. The P-63's main disadvantage in a high-speed boom manoeuvre is relatively strong elevator control stiffening at speed, which can make lining up a shot difficult. Remember that against most enemies, as long as you are pushing them down in altitude, it is easy to maintain an energy advantage in this plane, so transitioning from a high energy differential with extremely long boom-and-zoom yo-yos to a lower energy differential with tighter loops can be advantageous, as it puts the opponent under more pressure as they have less time to prepare between each of your approaches.

The P-63 can make effective bomber hunter as a typical bomber makes an easy shot, even with the 37 mm. Ensure you set up your runs effectively, as the P-63's fragility means a well-placed burst from the bomber's turrets can easily take you out of the fight. It's often inadvisable to pursue bombers at high altitude due to the P-63's relatively poor performance above 4,000 m. A canny bomber pilot that is above or even at the same altitude as you will simply turn away and rake you with their defensive armament. However, if you find yourself above a bomber, the P-63's speed can enable safe, high-speed runs that will often net easy kills due to the P-63's strong armament.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent dive speed
  • Excellent energy retention
  • Better-than-average climb rate
  • Good flat out speed
  • Good cannon damage

Cons:

  • Average turn time
  • Worse-than-average performance at low speeds
  • Ineffective armament against higher rank aircraft
  • Prone to engine damage when being chased

History

The P-63C saw little use with the US Air Force, and most were exported via Lend-Lease to the USSR. However, France also placed an order for 300 P-63C Kingcobras, to be delivered in 1945; of these, 114 aircraft were delivered before the rest of the order was voided, as the US found it unprofitable to continue producing Kingcobras after the war's end. By the time of contract cancellation, 3 full squadrons had converted to the Kingcobra while many more planes weren't ready for service. The first squadron to convert to the P-63 was the II/9 "Auvergne", based in North Africa.

The delivery of these aircraft to France caused a diplomatic stir in the United States, where the Lend-Lease program had been subsidized using taxpayer dollars. It was hoped that the aircraft would see service fighting the Luftwaffe in WWII, rather than sit the war out. However, the French soon made good use of their P63C Kingcobras with the outbreak of conflict in French Indochina between 1946-47.

The first Kingcobras arrived in 1949, replacing ex-WWII Spitfires that had been donated by the RAF. As the Viet Minh had no air force, the P-63Cs were used as ground attack aircraft, dropping WWII-era 250 lb bombs or non-finned napalm bombs. However, the Viet Minh soon began to receive advanced AA guns from the USSR and China, resulting in a dramatic increase of aircraft loss rates. At one point, the attrition rate reached 25% per year, with 30 aircraft losses between 1949 and 1951. The majority of these aircraft were written off due to flak damage, or were destroyed in runway accidents due to the poor quality of the French airfields. The aircraft were further limited by a lack of spare parts (the US refused to supply any) and a general hostile attitude towards the conflict in the United States.

By 1951, the American attitudes changed and began actively supporting the French forces. As a result, the French started receiving surplus F6F, F8F and F4U aircraft from American inventories. By winter of that year, the P-63C Kingcobra had disappeared from service in Indochina. None of the airframes were ever shipped back, and several wrecked aircraft remain in present-day Vietnam. The final French P-63 was retired in 1962, having served as a trainer with the French Air force.

Media

Skins
Videos
Sub Request, P-63C-5 (France). Outnumbered! - Joseph 2000
The Plane SO UNDERRATED It Can Carry An Entire Allied Team - Spit_flyer
P-63C-5 (France) - Ace Cold Predator - Napalmratte

See also

External links


Bell Aircraft Corporation
Aircraft 
Fighters  P-39N-0 · P-39Q-5
  P-400
  P-63A-10 · P-63A-5 · P-63C-5 · ␠Kingcobra
Jet Fighters  P-59A
Export  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15 · ▄P-39Q-25
  ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5 · ▄P-63C-5
Helicopters 
Attack  AH-1F · AH-1G · AH-1Z · AH-1W
  OH-58D
Utility  UH-1B · UH-1C · UH-1C XM-30
Export/Licensed  ▅UH-1B · ◄UH-1D
  Tzefa A · Tzefa B · Tzefa D/E · ▅AH-1S early · ▅AH-1S · ▅AH-1S Kisarazu · ␗AH-1W
  ␗OH-58D
See Also  Fuji Heavy Industries · Agusta

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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