Difference between revisions of "AML-90"

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{{Specs-Card|code=fr_aml_90}}
+
{{About
 +
| about = French light tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
 +
| link = AML-90 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=fr_aml_90
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
 
−
{{Break}}
+
The AML-90 was developed by the French company Panhard in the late 1950s, as a response to a commission by the French Ministry of Defense. It was based on the earlier AML-60, which mounted a 60 mm mortar as its main weapon. The AML-90 replaced the mortar with a DEFA low-pressure 90 mm rifled gun capable of firing high-explosive and high-explosive anti-tank shells. As the developer of the AML-90, France used it extensively, using it for police work, counter-insurgency, and reconnaissance among other tasks.
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} French light tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]].
+
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]], the  '''{{Specs|name}}''' relies heavily on its speed and good positioning to avoid getting killed, since the AML-90's lack of armour means that any shot, even heavy machine guns, can and likely will result in death. Therefore, it should be used in flanking manoeuvres, harassing enemies, capturing points, and supporting allies. Its 90 mm cannon is adequate for this job, however the use of a HEAT projectile means that one-shots are rare. Since it is a wheeled vehicle, it may get stuck in some terrains, and as such using it in flat areas should be prioritized.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
<!--''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''-->
+
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 +
 
 +
'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
 +
* Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret)
 +
* Structural steel (mudguards, storage boxes)
 +
* Wheel (tires)
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 +
|-
 +
| Hull || 10 mm (51°) ''Upper glacis'' <br> 10 mm (17°) ''Upper glacis'' || 10 mm (4°) ''Front half'' <br> 10 mm (6°) ''Rear half'' || 10 mm ''Upper plate'' <br> 10 mm (46°) ''Upper glacis'' <br> 10 mm (20°) ''Lower glacis'' || 10 mm (40°) ''Front glacis'' <br> 10 mm (44°) ''Rear glacis''
 +
|-
 +
|Turret || 12 mm (30°) ''Turret front'' <br> 12 mm (8°) ''Gun mantlet'' || 10 mm (17-21°) <br> 10 mm ''Viewports'' || 10 mm (16°) || 10 mm (16°) ''Front part'' <br> 10 mm ''Rear part'' <br> 8 mm ''Gunner hatch''
 +
|-
 +
|Cupola || colspan="4" style="text-align:center" | 8 mm (spherical)
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
'''Notes:'''
  
−
The tank is not very armored, with only 10 mm of armor for the hull, for the turret the armor varies according to the inclination but is between 14 mm and 28 mm. With such paper thin armor, there is a good chance of suffering a hull break and instantly knocking out the tank in one shot.  The driver is centered at the hull and the commander, who is also the tank's loader, is located to the right of the turret and the gunner to the left.  The engine is at the rear and the ammunition is located in the rear of the turret and in the center / rear of the hull.
+
* Wheels are 10 mm thick and a spare wheel covers the left side of the hull.
 +
* Storage boxes and mudguards are 5 mm thick.
 +
* The belly is 8 mm thick.
 +
* The gun barrel is 20 mm thick.
 +
 
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} lacks protection against heavy machine gun fire and is susceptible to damage by light machine gun fire. The crew is located in a rather small compartment, making the armoured car prompt to being knocked out by a single shot from almost any direction. It is also vulnerable to overpressure, meaning chemical energy ammunition will take out your vehicle regardless of where they impact. A kinetic energy ammunition can damage your AML through the projectile itself or the spalling generated but the inflicted damages are lesser and has a higher chance to knock out the crew members or critical modules than to destroy the vehicle. The thin armour has a chance to not activate fused shells like APHE, APCBC, etc, although it will trigger HEAT, HEATFS, HE rounds, and ATGMs.
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=139|rbMinHp=80}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=139|rbMinHp=80}}
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
 +
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|DEFA F1 (90 mm)}}
 
{{main|DEFA F1 (90 mm)}}
 +
 +
The AML-90 uses a powerful 90 mm DEFA F1 low pressure cannon. The AML-90 comes with a stock OCC 60-62 HEATFS ammunition, capable of penetrating most tanks at its BR at any distance. It should be noted that the AML-90 only carries 20 rounds at max, meaning all rounds should be aimed for a kill shot as the small capacity will make the tank ammunition deplete faster than in other tanks if precautions are not taken. Commanders should always shoot to kill in the least shots necessary, know center of mass, ammunition racks, etc to successfully engage a target.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 20 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+15° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 23.8 || __.__ || __.__ || __.__ || __.__ || rowspan="2" | 8.7 || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
+
| rowspan="2" | 20 || rowspan="2" | -8°/+15° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 23.8 || 32.9 || 40.0 || 44.2 || 47.1 || rowspan="2" | 8.71 || rowspan="2" | 7.70 || rowspan="2" | 7.10 || rowspan="2" | 6.70
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| 14.9 || __.__ || __.__ || __.__ || __.__
+
| 14.9 || 17.5 || 21.3 || 23.5 || 25.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:DEFA F1 (90 mm)/Ammunition|OCC 60-62, OE 90 F1, OFUM PH90-F2}}
−
! 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
 
−
|-
 
−
| OCC 60-62 || HEATFS || 320 || 320 || 320 || 320 || 320 || 320
 
−
|-
 
−
| OE 90 F1 || HE || 13 || 13 || 13 || 13 || 13 || 13
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| 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%
 
−
|-
 
−
| OCC 60-62 || HEATFS || 750 || 8.95 || N/A || 0.1 || 877.7 || 65° || 72° || 77°
 
−
|-
 
−
| OE 90 F1 || HE || 640 || 10.45 || 0.1 || 0.5 || 945 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" 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)
 
−
|-
 
−
| OFUM PH90-F2 || 640 || 10.2 || 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: 1.101.1.16''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.15.1.55''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 100: Line 97:
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''20''' || 16&nbsp;''(+4)'' || 11&nbsp;''(+9)'' || 7&nbsp;''(+13)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+19)'' || No
+
| '''20''' || 17&nbsp;''(+3)'' || 11&nbsp;''(+9)'' || 6&nbsp;''(+14)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+19)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
Notes:
+
'''Notes''':
  
 
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
 
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
 
* Racks 3 and 4 are first stage ammo racks. They total 10 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
 
* Racks 3 and 4 are first stage ammo racks. They total 10 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
−
* These racks are also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 3 - 4 - 1 - 2.
+
** These racks are also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 3 - 4 - 1 - 2.
−
* Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammunition from rack 1 then 2 into ready rack 4 then 3. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.
+
** Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammunition from rack 1 then 2 into ready rack 4 then 3. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
−
{{main|MAC 31 (7.5 mm)}}
+
{{main|A-A-F1N (7.62 mm)}}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[MAC 31 (7.5 mm)|7.5 mm MAC 31]]
+
! colspan="5" | [[A-A-F1N (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm A-A-F1N]]
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Mount
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
−
! Capacity<br>(Belt capacity)
 
−
! Rate of fire<br>(shots/minute)
 
−
! Vertical<br>guidance
 
−
! Horizontal<br>guidance
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Coaxial || 2,150 (150) || 1,350 || N/A || N/A
+
| Coaxial || 2,200 (100) || 900 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Pintle || 800 (150) || 1,350 || -10°/+40° || ±120°
+
| Pintle || 800 (100) || 900 || -10°/+40° || ±120°
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
The small calibre of the A-A-F1N machine guns makes them largely ineffective against all armoured vehicles but the ones with an open compartment. They 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 ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
AML-90 should be primarily used as a scout flanking vehicle due to its high speed, low profile, scouting capabilities and fire power (tremendous for such a small vehicle). The AML-90 has primarily 3 uses:
+
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 +
AML-90 should be primarily used as a scout flanking vehicle due to its high speed, low profile, scouting capabilities and firepower (tremendous for such a small vehicle). The AML-90 has primarily 3 uses:
  
 
'''Scouting:'''
 
'''Scouting:'''
  
−
As its name says, scouting. When on large maps, the scouting ability should be used at its full potential. The low profile and high speed make it able to crawl to tiny cover really fast and without creating much suspicion, marking targets for friendlies to engage.
+
As its name says, scouting. When on large maps, the scouting ability should be used at its full potential. The low profile and high speed make it able to crawl to cover fast and without creating much suspicion, while marking targets for friendlies to engage.
  
 
'''Flanking:'''
 
'''Flanking:'''
  
−
Due to the high speed and really powerful gun, the AML-90 can be used to hit any enemy from the back. This tactic should be a "Hit n' Run", you should disable or destroy targets and leave before they can engage you. The powerful gun can even be able to take a [[Maus]] and [[E-100]] if used properly (320mm of penetration at all ranges at 0°). Use smoke to cover your trail when you have been spotted.
+
Due to the high speed and really powerful gun, the AML-90 can be used to hit any enemy from the back. This tactic should be a "Hit n' Run", you should disable or destroy targets and leave before they can engage you. The powerful gun can even be able to take on a [[Maus]] or [[E-100]] if used properly (320 mm of penetration at all ranges at 0°). Use smoke to cover your trail when you have been spotted.
  
 
'''Sniping:'''
 
'''Sniping:'''
  
−
Despite the optics not having a huge zoom, it is enough to be able to detect, target and engage enemy vehicles at all ranges thanks to the HEAT-FS round. Be aware of your ammo as it can only carry 20, make all shots count. It also creates a relatively small smoke trail when firing compared to other cannons at the br (105mm, other 90mm, 122mm) thanks to the muzzle break. Bushes can be also used to make this vehicle invisible due to its low profile. A big bunch of branches can cover almost 70% of the front of the AML-90, making it a moving bush but deadly bush. It also creates a small engine sound that will be, most of the time, masked up by all tanks, giving you a stealth capability which can be expoited in urban combat.
+
Despite the optics not having a huge zoom, it is enough to be able to detect, target and engage enemy vehicles at all ranges thanks to the HEATFS round. Be aware of your ammo as it can only carry 20, so make all shots count. It also creates a relatively small smoke trail when firing compared to other cannons at the battle rating (105 mm, other 90 mm, 122 mm) thanks to the muzzle brake. Bushes can also be used to make this vehicle invisible due to its low profile. A big bunch of branches can cover almost 70% of the front of the AML-90, making it a moving and deadly bush. It also creates a small engine sound that will be, most of the time, masked up by other tanks, giving you a stealth capability which can be exploited in urban combat.
−
 
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 
−
! Protection
 
−
! colspan="3" | Firepower
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Tires
 
−
|
 
−
| Parts
 
−
| Horizontal Drive
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
| Suspension
 
−
| Brake System
 
−
| FPE
 
−
| Adjustment of Fire
 
−
| Airstrike
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Filters
 
−
|
 
−
| Crew Replenishment
 
−
| Elevation Mechanism
 
−
| OFUM PH90-F2
 
−
| Smoke grenade
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| Transmission
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Artillery Support
 
−
| Improved optics
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Very small size makes it easy to get around and avoid shots.
+
* Its very small size makes it easy to get around and avoid shots
−
* 320 mm penetrating HEAT-FS ammo should be able to take care of any expected enemies
+
* 320 mm penetrating HEATFS ammo should be able to take care of any expected enemies
 
* Has access to smoke grenades and smoke shells that will allow it to move around unseen
 
* Has access to smoke grenades and smoke shells that will allow it to move around unseen
−
* Has a roof mounted 7.5 mm that can be good to shoot planes and open top vehicles
+
* Has a roof mounted 7.62 mm that can be good to shoot planes and open-topped vehicles
−
* Armor is thin enough to not fuze some high caliber APHE, most notably from Soviet cannons
+
* Armour is thin enough to not fuse some high calibre APHE shells, most notably from Soviet cannons
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Has hullbreak
+
* Prone to overpressure damage
−
* Only has 3 crew, a single shot will most likely knock it out
+
* Only has a crew of 3, a single shot will most likely knock the {{PAGENAME}} out
−
* Only 10-12mm frontal armour, can get penned by .50 cals and other small calibre weapons
+
* Only 10 to 12 mm of frontal armour, can get penetrated by .50 cal HMG fire and other small-calibre weapons
 
* Very low ammo count of 20 shells
 
* Very low ammo count of 20 shells
−
* Terrible brakes, you will take 20 meters to stop
+
* Terrible brakes, it will take you 20 metres to stop
−
* Wheeled vehicle mobility, it's not easy to climb hills
+
* Wheeled vehicle mobility: any obstacle makes you lose a lot of speed (walls, fences, potholes, hills)
−
* Taking smoke shells means having to take less HEAT-FS on the already small ammo storage
+
* Taking smoke shells means having to take less HEATFS on the already limited ammo storage
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
''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).''
+
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 +
 
 +
===Design===
 +
The AML-90 is a variant of a light armoured car developed by the French company Panhard in the late 1950s. It was designed to replace the older and less capable scout vehicles that the French Army had used during World War II, such as the AMD 35, Laffly S15, and the Daimler Ferrets. The AML family of cars had a four-wheel drive chassis, a three-man crew, and the AML-90 had a 90 mm low-pressure gun that could fire high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) shells. The AML-90 was also very agile and compact, making it suitable for reconnaissance and raiding missions in various terrains.
 +
 
 +
===Development===
 +
The first prototypes were tested in 1959 and the vehicles entered service in 1961. The early versions were armed with a 60 mm mortar in the turret. A new turret integrating a 90 mm cannon was developed the same year they entered service. The AML was an export success with many armies around the world adopting the AML-90, in particular African or Middle-Eastern countries with limited budgets. Almost 5,000 units were produced.
 +
 
 +
===Combat usage===
 +
The AML-90 saw service in the French Army and in numerous armies around the world, the most renowned foreign operators being South Africa, Spain, Israel, Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The AML-90 saw combat action during many conflicts throughout the years: Six-Day War, South African Border War, Iran-Iraq war, Toyota War among the most know and remains in service until today.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
Line 215: Line 180:
 
;Skins
 
;Skins
  
−
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=france&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=light_tank&vehicle=fr_aml_90 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
+
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=fr_aml_90 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
;Videos
 
;Videos
Line 221: Line 186:
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 +
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 +
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 +
;Related development
 +
* [[AML-90 (Family)]]
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
+
;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* [[AUBL/74]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 +
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 +
* ''other literature.'' -->
  
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
+
* [[wikipedia:Panhard_AML|[Wikipedia] Panhard AML]]
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
+
* [https://www.tanks-encyclopedia.com/coldwar/France/Panhard_AML.php <nowiki>[Tanks Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Panhard AML]
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer Panhard}}
 
{{France light tanks}}
 
{{France light tanks}}
 +
[[Category:Wheeled ground vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 11:57, 1 January 2024

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This page is about the French light tank AML-90. For other versions, see AML-90 (Family).
AML-90
fr_aml_90.png
GarageImage AML-90.jpg
AML-90
France flag.png France
V Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
7.0 7.7 7.7
Class:
Research:95 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:270 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
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Description

The AML-90 was developed by the French company Panhard in the late 1950s, as a response to a commission by the French Ministry of Defense. It was based on the earlier AML-60, which mounted a 60 mm mortar as its main weapon. The AML-90 replaced the mortar with a DEFA low-pressure 90 mm rifled gun capable of firing high-explosive and high-explosive anti-tank shells. As the developer of the AML-90, France used it extensively, using it for police work, counter-insurgency, and reconnaissance among other tasks.

Introduced in Update 1.95 "Northern Wind", the AML-90 relies heavily on its speed and good positioning to avoid getting killed, since the AML-90's lack of armour means that any shot, even heavy machine guns, can and likely will result in death. Therefore, it should be used in flanking manoeuvres, harassing enemies, capturing points, and supporting allies. Its 90 mm cannon is adequate for this job, however the use of a HEAT projectile means that one-shots are rare. Since it is a wheeled vehicle, it may get stuck in some terrains, and as such using it in flat areas should be prioritized.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull10 / 10 / 10
Turret12 / 10 / 10
Crew3 people
Visibility84 %

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (hull, turret)
  • Structural steel (mudguards, storage boxes)
  • Wheel (tires)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 10 mm (51°) Upper glacis
10 mm (17°) Upper glacis 		10 mm (4°) Front half
10 mm (6°) Rear half 		10 mm Upper plate
10 mm (46°) Upper glacis
10 mm (20°) Lower glacis 		10 mm (40°) Front glacis
10 mm (44°) Rear glacis
Turret 12 mm (30°) Turret front
12 mm (8°) Gun mantlet 		10 mm (17-21°)
10 mm Viewports 		10 mm (16°) 10 mm (16°) Front part
10 mm Rear part
8 mm Gunner hatch
Cupola 8 mm (spherical)

Notes:

  • Wheels are 10 mm thick and a spare wheel covers the left side of the hull.
  • Storage boxes and mudguards are 5 mm thick.
  • The belly is 8 mm thick.
  • The gun barrel is 20 mm thick.

The AML-90 lacks protection against heavy machine gun fire and is susceptible to damage by light machine gun fire. The crew is located in a rather small compartment, making the armoured car prompt to being knocked out by a single shot from almost any direction. It is also vulnerable to overpressure, meaning chemical energy ammunition will take out your vehicle regardless of where they impact. A kinetic energy ammunition can damage your AML through the projectile itself or the spalling generated but the inflicted damages are lesser and has a higher chance to knock out the crew members or critical modules than to destroy the vehicle. The thin armour has a chance to not activate fused shells like APHE, APCBC, etc, although it will trigger HEAT, HEATFS, HE rounds, and ATGMs.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB101 / 20 km/h
RB and SB91 / 18 km/h
Number of gears10 forward
2 back
Weight5.5 t
Engine power
AB172 hp
RB and SB90 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB31.3 hp/t
RB and SB16.4 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 101 20 5.5 139 172 25.27 31.27
Realistic 91 18 80 90 14.55 16.36

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 035 → 4 406 Sl icon.png
RB3 664 → 5 320 Sl icon.png
SB4 919 → 7 142 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications76 700 Rp icon.png
127 300 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 000 Ge icon.png
Crew training78 000 Sl icon.png
Experts270 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces670 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
120 / 160 / 200 % Sl icon.png
190 / 190 / 190 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new wheels.png
Tires
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods new car suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
165 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
165 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 500 Sl icon.png
185 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
3 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
2 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
165 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement fr.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 500 Sl icon.png
185 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
165 Ge icon.png
Mods airstrike.png
Airstrike
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
165 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 500 Sl icon.png
185 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
90mm_CN90_Smoke_ammo_pack
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 500 Sl icon.png
185 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 500 Sl icon.png
185 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods scouting.png
Improved optics
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Main armament

90 mm DEFA F1 cannon
Ammunition20 rounds
First-order10 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
8.7 → 6.7 s
Vertical guidance-8° / 15°
Main article: DEFA F1 (90 mm)

The AML-90 uses a powerful 90 mm DEFA F1 low pressure cannon. The AML-90 comes with a stock OCC 60-62 HEATFS ammunition, capable of penetrating most tanks at its BR at any distance. It should be noted that the AML-90 only carries 20 rounds at max, meaning all rounds should be aimed for a kill shot as the small capacity will make the tank ammunition deplete faster than in other tanks if precautions are not taken. Commanders should always shoot to kill in the least shots necessary, know center of mass, ammunition racks, etc to successfully engage a target.

90 mm DEFA F1 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 20 -8°/+15° ±180° N/A 23.8 32.9 40.0 44.2 47.1 8.71 7.70 7.10 6.70
Realistic 14.9 17.5 21.3 23.5 25.0

Ammunition

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
OCC 60-62 HEATFS 350 350 350 350 350 350
OE 90 F1 HE 13 13 13 13 13 13
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
OCC 60-62 HEATFS 800 3.65 0.05 0.1 877.7 65° 72° 77°
OE 90 F1 HE 640 5.27 0.2 0.1 945 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)
OFUM PH90-F2 640 5.4 9 5 20 50

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the AML-90
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
20 17 (+3) 11 (+9) 6 (+14) 1 (+19) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • Racks 3 and 4 are first stage ammo racks. They total 10 shells and get filled first when loading up the tank.
    • These racks are also emptied early: the rack depletion order at full capacity is: 3 - 4 - 1 - 2.
    • Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammunition from rack 1 then 2 into ready rack 4 then 3. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.

Machine guns

7.62 mm A-A-F1N machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition2 200 rounds
Belt capacity100 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate900 shots/min
7.62 mm A-A-F1N machine gun
Ammunition2 000 rounds
Belt capacity100 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate900 shots/min
Main article: A-A-F1N (7.62 mm)
7.62 mm A-A-F1N
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 2,200 (100) 900 N/A N/A
Pintle 800 (100) 900 -10°/+40° ±120°

The small calibre of the A-A-F1N machine guns makes them largely ineffective against all armoured vehicles but the ones with an open compartment. They 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

AML-90 should be primarily used as a scout flanking vehicle due to its high speed, low profile, scouting capabilities and firepower (tremendous for such a small vehicle). The AML-90 has primarily 3 uses:

Scouting:

As its name says, scouting. When on large maps, the scouting ability should be used at its full potential. The low profile and high speed make it able to crawl to cover fast and without creating much suspicion, while marking targets for friendlies to engage.

Flanking:

Due to the high speed and really powerful gun, the AML-90 can be used to hit any enemy from the back. This tactic should be a "Hit n' Run", you should disable or destroy targets and leave before they can engage you. The powerful gun can even be able to take on a Maus or E-100 if used properly (320 mm of penetration at all ranges at 0°). Use smoke to cover your trail when you have been spotted.

Sniping:

Despite the optics not having a huge zoom, it is enough to be able to detect, target and engage enemy vehicles at all ranges thanks to the HEATFS round. Be aware of your ammo as it can only carry 20, so make all shots count. It also creates a relatively small smoke trail when firing compared to other cannons at the battle rating (105 mm, other 90 mm, 122 mm) thanks to the muzzle brake. Bushes can also be used to make this vehicle invisible due to its low profile. A big bunch of branches can cover almost 70% of the front of the AML-90, making it a moving and deadly bush. It also creates a small engine sound that will be, most of the time, masked up by other tanks, giving you a stealth capability which can be exploited in urban combat.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Its very small size makes it easy to get around and avoid shots
  • 320 mm penetrating HEATFS ammo should be able to take care of any expected enemies
  • Has access to smoke grenades and smoke shells that will allow it to move around unseen
  • Has a roof mounted 7.62 mm that can be good to shoot planes and open-topped vehicles
  • Armour is thin enough to not fuse some high calibre APHE shells, most notably from Soviet cannons

Cons:

  • Prone to overpressure damage
  • Only has a crew of 3, a single shot will most likely knock the AML-90 out
  • Only 10 to 12 mm of frontal armour, can get penetrated by .50 cal HMG fire and other small-calibre weapons
  • Very low ammo count of 20 shells
  • Terrible brakes, it will take you 20 metres to stop
  • Wheeled vehicle mobility: any obstacle makes you lose a lot of speed (walls, fences, potholes, hills)
  • Taking smoke shells means having to take less HEATFS on the already limited ammo storage

History

Design

The AML-90 is a variant of a light armoured car developed by the French company Panhard in the late 1950s. It was designed to replace the older and less capable scout vehicles that the French Army had used during World War II, such as the AMD 35, Laffly S15, and the Daimler Ferrets. The AML family of cars had a four-wheel drive chassis, a three-man crew, and the AML-90 had a 90 mm low-pressure gun that could fire high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) shells. The AML-90 was also very agile and compact, making it suitable for reconnaissance and raiding missions in various terrains.

Development

The first prototypes were tested in 1959 and the vehicles entered service in 1961. The early versions were armed with a 60 mm mortar in the turret. A new turret integrating a 90 mm cannon was developed the same year they entered service. The AML was an export success with many armies around the world adopting the AML-90, in particular African or Middle-Eastern countries with limited budgets. Almost 5,000 units were produced.

Combat usage

The AML-90 saw service in the French Army and in numerous armies around the world, the most renowned foreign operators being South Africa, Spain, Israel, Saudi Arabia and Iraq. The AML-90 saw combat action during many conflicts throughout the years: Six-Day War, South African Border War, Iran-Iraq war, Toyota War among the most know and remains in service until today.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #194 - Metal Beasts section at 00:30 discusses the AML-90.
My Best Scout Game Ever - AML-90 - PhlyDaily

See also

Related development
Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links


Panhard
Armoured Cars  AML-90
AMD.35  AMD.35 · AMD.35 (SA35)
E.B.R.  E.B.R. (1951) · E.B.R. (1954) · E.B.R. (1963)
Export  AML-90

France light tanks
AMC.34/35  AMC.34 YR · AMC.35 (ACG.1)
H.35/39  H.35 · H.39 · H.39 "Cambronne"
AMX-13  AMX-13 (FL11) · AMX-13-M24 · AMX-13 · AMX-13 (SS.11) · AMX-13-90 · AMX-13 (HOT)
Wheeled  AML-90 · AMX-10RC · Vextra 105
AMD.35  AMD.35 · AMD.35 (SA35)
E.B.R.  E.B.R. (1951) · E.B.R. (1954) · E.B.R. (1963)
Other  FCM.36 · R.35 (SA38) · Char 25t · MARS 15 · VBCI-2 (MCT30)
Austria  SK-105A2
Great Britain  ▄Crusader Mk.II
Netherlands  CV 9035NL
USA  LVT-4/40 · ▄M3A3 Stuart

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