Difference between revisions of "Yak-3 (France)"

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{{Specs-Card|code=yak-3_france}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = French premium fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = French premium fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other uses
+
| usage = other versions
 
| link = Yak-3 (Family)
 
| link = Yak-3 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=yak-3_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_Yak-3France.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
Normandie-Nieman was a Free French Air Force squadron that was created in 1942 and is quite famous. After Operation Barbarossa started, Soviet officials wanted their diplomats in France to return to the Soviet Union. This, along with Charles de Gaulle's ambition for French pilots to serve on all fronts of the war, led to the squadron also serving on the Eastern Front. The squadron arrived at Ivanovo Air Base in November 1942 and was trained with several Yak variants. Over the years, the squadron grew its kill tally to an impressive 200+ kills claimed. Nearing the end of the war, the squadron's main fighter was the Yak-3, which would also be used after the war. However, due to the lack of spare parts, many French Yak-3s were cannibalized to keep others airworthy until the situation was untenable. Soon after, they were retired, with one surviving in an airport to this day. The squadron still lives as well and now flies Dassault Rafales.
−
{{break}}
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium rank {{Specs|rank}} French fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.77 "Advancing Storm"]].
 
  
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was introduced as a premium fighter during [[Update 1.77 "Advancing Storm"]]. The Yak-3 is an incredibly dangerous aircraft with its excellent performance, handling, and guns. Like many Yakovlev fighters, the Yak-3 is no exception to being able to manoeuvre well. It has very good manoeuvring energy retention, and the climb rate is also quite high at over 21 m/s. However, Soviet fighters were typically suited for low altitude, and the Yak-3 drops off in power at 5,000 metres and above (16,200 feet). Furthermore, since the Yak-3 is made out of wood, it has a low structural limit of 685 km/h (425 mph), so players need to be extra careful when going into dives. The Yak-3 is an excellent fighter for players to learn energy fighting and basic dogfighting tactics.
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration 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"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
−
|-
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
−
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
+
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,100 m)
−
|-
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
−
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at ?,000 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
 
−
|-
 
−
| ? || ? || {{Specs|ceiling}} || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ???
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
+
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at ?,000 m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB
+
! Stock
−
! RB
+
| 633 || 615 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 18.3 || 18.9 || 17.9 || 17.9 || rowspan="2" | 348
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ? || ? || {{Specs|ceiling}} || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ???
+
! Upgraded
 +
| 674 || 654 || 17.2 || 17.4 || 24.3 || 21.3
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
====Details====
+
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flaps
+
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
−
! Take-off flaps
 
−
! Landing flaps
 
−
! Air brakes
 
−
! Arrestor gear
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
| X || X || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 
| X || X || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
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|}
 
|}
  
−
{| 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|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || ??? || ~?? || ~?
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
 
−
|-
 
−
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < ??? || < ??? || < ??? || > ???
+
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || N/A || 320 || ~12 || ~9
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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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
+
| < 380 || < 420 || < 490 || > 340
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 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.'' -->
−
8.5 mm Steel plate - behind pilot
+
 
−
64 mm bullet proof glass - behind pilot's headrest
+
* 8.5 mm steel behind pilot
−
10 mm Steel plate - above pilot's head.
+
* 10 mm steel on top of rear cockpit
 +
* 64 mm bulletproof
 +
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 under pilot, 1 in each wing)
 +
 
 +
=== 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|ShVAK (20 mm)|Berezin UB (12.7 mm)}}
 
{{main|ShVAK (20 mm)|Berezin UB (12.7 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 +
 
* 1 x 20 mm ShVAK cannon, nose-mounted (120 rpg)
 
* 1 x 20 mm ShVAK cannon, nose-mounted (120 rpg)
 
* 2 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine guns, nose-mounted (150 rpg = 300 total)
 
* 2 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine guns, nose-mounted (150 rpg = 300 total)
  
 
== 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).'' -->
−
The Yak-3 is the pinnacle of the piston engine Yakovlev design, with a much more powerful engine, the addition of a second MG (meaning the MGs are viable now!), and ''metal wings''! The coolant system, now actually somewhat effective, has been moved to the wing roots (no "smiley face" below the nose), making the plane more streamlined. The cannon - the same old 20mm ShVak - receives a pleasant upgrade: very effective Air Targets belts.
+
The Yak-3 is the pinnacle of the piston engine Yakovlev design, with a much more powerful engine, the addition of a second MG (meaning the MGs are viable now!), though metal wings were not yet added until the Yak-9. The coolant system, now actually somewhat effective, has been moved to the wing roots (no "smiley face" below the nose), making the plane more streamlined. The cannon - the same old 20 mm ShVak - receives a pleasant upgrade: very effective Air Targets belts.
 +
 
 +
Boasting incredible engine performance on a light and agile airframe, you can easily climb with, or even outclimb your contemporary fighters, allowing you maintain an energy advantage over some at the start of a match. Unlike some of the other energy-fighters you will come across (Bf-109s and such), the Yak-3 has incredible maneuverability compared to them, found in its roll rate and turn radius. Its energy retention and engine power alone allow you to almost indefinitely hold a horizontal turn, making this plane an excellent dogfighter and can let you play both as a turn-fighter of sorts or a dedicated energy-fighter.
 +
 
 +
Flight performance of the Yak-3 is outstanding. While it can't out-turn the likes of a Zero, or execute Boom-and-Zoom tactics as well as a Bf-109, it can certainly handle nearly everything it will face. This plane truly excels at long and slow dogfights, where the engine power will allow you to recover from any turn with ease. The landing flaps, albeit rather weak, making stall-fighting and turning effectively under 300 km/h trivial, and will certainly help when dealing with enemies that outclass you in one area. The Yak can easily handle said stall maneuvers, and low-speed turns you may find yourself in. Most planes will have lost most of their speed and will struggle to accelerate in these conditions, making maneuvers like the high yo-yo absurdly useful.
 +
 
 +
Always beware of true turn-fighters (Spitfires, Zeros), as they may be able to take you down before you can force them to bleed energy. It is generally recommended to maintain an energy advantage (altitude is best), so they can never have a fight on their own terms. If in a dogfight with a turn-fighter, the Yak's agility can be a major aid in staying out of your opponent's flight path, so capitalize on this as best you can. As stated above, forcing your enemy to turn while staying untouched can allowing you to pull maneuvers quickly and accelerate when speed is needed to get on your enemies tail.
 +
 
 +
Even with the climbing performance the Yak offers, bomber-hunting isn't recommended. You have a very limited ammunition supply making even extending dogfights with more than one enemy stressful. Thankfully, the weapons you get won't disappoint. Both your gun and cannon have good muzzle velocities with high rates of fire, and are effective all-around. Try to only hold bursts of a few rounds at a time to maximize damage potential while preserving ammo for later fights.
  
−
Overall, the Yak-3 can be considered as a "jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none" aircraft. It will readily fulfill any fighter role a pilot will put it in, however, it won't excel in any – the American and German aircraft will still be better at energy fighting and executing Boom & Zoom tactics, while the British and the Japanese planes will still have an edge in maneuverability. Yet, the Yak-3 is a very potent machine which, with a skilled pilot behind the controls, is an opponent that you don't want to underestimate.
+
While certainly outperformed in areas like turn rates and BnZ potential, the Yak can accomplish any feat with proper skill from the pilot, making for one of the best multirole fighters currently in-game.
  
−
===Manual Engine Control===
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 162: Line 122:
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Oil
+
! Oil !! Water !! Type
−
! Water
 
−
! Type
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Automatic pitch || Controllable || Not controllable || Combined || Controllable || Not controllable
+
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || 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="1" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 12 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
| New 12 mm MGs
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| 100 octane fuel usage
 
−
|
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| New 20 mm cannons
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
−
* This premium aircraft comes furnished with all modifications unlocked upon purchase.
 
  
 
=== 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:'''
−
* Great turn time
+
 
−
* Good armament of two Berezin machine guns and one ShVAK cannon
+
* Stellar engine performance
−
* Good climb rate
+
* Stall and vertical maneuvers are effective and easy
 +
* Energy retention is on-par with Bf-109s
 +
* Surprisingly very agile, with a great turn and roll rate
 +
* Doesn't struggle or begin to feel sluggish at low speeds
 +
* Effective armament
 +
* Great acceleration
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Mediocre rip speed - worsened by its powerful engine
 +
* No combat flaps, only equipped with landing flaps
 +
* No WEP, engine overheats at 100%
 +
* Poor engine performance above 5 km
 +
* Long bursts and bomber-hunting will quickly drain your ammo pool
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!--Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too 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>=== Encyclopedia Info ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).-->
+
<!-- ''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 idea to produce a new fighter for the Red Army Air Force went as far back as 1941. It was then that the Yakovlev Design Bureau presented the I-30 prototype, intended an alternative to the earlier Yak-1 design. However, the German invasion of the USSR, as well as aluminium shortages, meant that the project had to be put on hold. Yakovlev resumed the development in 1943 while working on an upgraded version of the Yak-1 fighter. This time, it was decided that a new aircraft should be produced to completely replace the Yak-1 and Yak-7 models.  
+
The idea to produce a new fighter for the Red Army Air Force went as far back as 1941. It was then that the Yakovlev Design Bureau presented the I-30 prototype, intended an alternative to the earlier Yak-1 design. However, the German invasion of the USSR, as well as aluminium shortages, meant that the project had to be put on hold. Yakovlev resumed the development in 1943 while working on an upgraded version of the Yak-1 fighter. This time, it was decided that a new aircraft should be produced to completely replace the Yak-1 and Yak-7 models.
  
−
By September 1943, yet another improved variant was ready, designated Yak-1M Dubler, on which the canvas skin on the tail section was replaced with 2mm plywood, and oil and water radiators were improved. The Dubler also had a new mastless antenna, a ring sight instead of a reflector sight, improved armour and a new propeller. Test pilots were impressed by the new prototype. Their report stated in part: "''Yak-1M possessed excellent horizontal, and especially vertical, manoeuvrability. Top speed greatly improved compared to earlier serial-production Yaks. Despite the improved performance, the aircraft remains easy to fly and does not require extensive pilot training''."  
+
By September 1943, yet another improved variant was ready, designated Yak-1M Dubler, on which the canvas skin on the tail section was replaced with 2 mm plywood, and oil and water radiators were improved. The Dubler also had a new mastless antenna, a ring sight instead of a reflector sight, improved armour and a new propeller. Test pilots were impressed by the new prototype. Their report stated in part: "''Yak-1M possessed excellent horizontal, and especially vertical, manoeuvrability. Top speed greatly improved compared to earlier serial-production Yaks. Despite the improved performance, the aircraft remains easy to fly and does not require extensive pilot training''."
  
 
The new machine was dubbed as the Yak-3 and entered service with the Red Army Air Force in 1944. The Yak-3 was a further modification of the Yak-1, produced in 1944 and 1945, with a total of 4,848 built, and considered one of the best fighters of the war.
 
The new machine was dubbed as the Yak-3 and entered service with the Red Army Air Force in 1944. The Yak-3 was a further modification of the Yak-1, produced in 1944 and 1945, with a total of 4,848 built, and considered one of the best fighters of the war.
  
−
The new fighter quickly became very popular with Soviet pilots. They highly praised its solid armament of two Berezin UBS 12.7 mm machine guns and one ShVAK 20 mm cannon as well as ease of piloting and superb low-altitude performance. Marcel Albert, the top scoring French ace of World War II, cited the Yak-3 as one of the best fighters of the war, along with the P-51 Mustang and the Supermarine Spitfire. After the war, the Yak-3 was also used by the Air Forces of Socialist Yugoslavia and Poland.<ref name="forum">[https://warthunder.com/en/news/2693--en <nowiki>[Aircraft Profile] Yak-3</nowiki>]</ref>
+
The new fighter quickly became very popular with Soviet pilots. They highly praised its solid armament of two Berezin UBS 12.7 mm machine guns and one ShVAK 20 mm cannon as well as ease of piloting and superb low-altitude performance. Marcel Albert, the top scoring French ace of World War II, cited the Yak-3 as one of the best fighters of the war, along with the P-51 Mustang and the Supermarine Spitfire. After the war, the Yak-3 was also used by the Air Forces of Socialist Yugoslavia and Poland.<ref name="forum">[[wt:en/news/2693--en|[Aircraft Profile] Yak-3]]</ref>
  
−
The Yak-3P was produced from April 1945 until mid-1946, armed with 3 × 20 mm Berezin B-20 cannon with 120 rounds for the middle cannon and 130 RPG for the side weapons. The three-cannon armament with full ammunition load was actually 11 kg (24 lb) lighter than that of a standard Yak-3, and the one-second burst mass of 3.52 kg (7.74 lb) was greater than that of most contemporary fighters. Starting in August 1945, all Yak-3 were produced in the Yak-3P configuration with a total of 596 built.
+
== Media ==
 +
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
  
−
=== In-game description ===
+
;Skins
−
"The Yak-3 was a Soviet single-engine fighter of the WWII era. It was the first combat aircraft designed by Alexander Yakovlev's construction bureau. The Yak-3 was a further modification of the Yak-1, produced in 1944 and 1945, with a total of 4,848 built, and considered one of the best fighters of the war. In February 1943, a new Yak-1M variant was completed. It was a further development of the Yak-1, differing from it mainly in lower weight and smaller wing span.
 
  
−
By September 1943, yet another improved variant was ready, designated Yak-1M Dubler, on which the canvas skin on the tail section was replaced with 2mm plywood, and oil and water radiators were improved. The Dubler also had a new mastless antenna, a ring sight instead of a reflector sight, improved armor and a new propeller. Test pilots were impressed by the new prototype. Their report stated in part: ""Yak-1M possessed excellent horizontal, and especially vertical, maneuverability. Top speed greatly improved compared to earlier serial-production Yaks. Despite improved performance, the aircraft remains easy to fly and does not require extensive pilot training."" Therefore, the new modification went into production, receiving a new designation, Yak-3.  
+
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=yak-3_france Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
−
One of the most memorable air battles for the Yak-3 took place on 16th July 1944, when the plane showed it could confidently engage superior enemy forces. On that day, 10 Yak-3s met 8 Bf-109s and 4 FW-190s, with the battle eventually growing to 18 Soviet and 24 German planes. In the end, 15 German planes were shot down, for the loss of a single Yak-3."
+
;Videos
−
 
+
{{Youtube-gallery|DWfx4FGgO50|'''Premium Review: {{PAGENAME}} [Brilliant Beauty!]"''' - ''Jengar''|A5zB4uwfnsk|'''Premium Review. {{PAGENAME}}. An effective Bruiser''' - ''Joseph 2000''|ZQ0XIBPcF4E|'''The Shooting Range #73''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 08:54 discusses the {{PAGENAME}} and the Nomandie-Niemen Regiment.}}
−
== Media ==
 
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
 
  
 
== 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 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.''
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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* ''other literature.''
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* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/78309-yakovlev-yak-3-1944/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
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=== References ===
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<references />
  
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{{AirManufacturer Yakovlev}}
 
{{France fighters}}
 
{{France fighters}}
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{{France premium aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 20:42, 30 March 2024

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
This page is about the French premium fighter Yak-3 (France). For other versions, see Yak-3 (Family).
▄Yak-3
yak-3_france.png
GarageImage Yak-3 (France).jpg
ArtImage Yak-3 (France).png
▄Yak-3
France flag.png France
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
4.3 4.3 4.7
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:1 600 Specs-Card-Eagle.png
Show in game

Description

Normandie-Nieman was a Free French Air Force squadron that was created in 1942 and is quite famous. After Operation Barbarossa started, Soviet officials wanted their diplomats in France to return to the Soviet Union. This, along with Charles de Gaulle's ambition for French pilots to serve on all fronts of the war, led to the squadron also serving on the Eastern Front. The squadron arrived at Ivanovo Air Base in November 1942 and was trained with several Yak variants. Over the years, the squadron grew its kill tally to an impressive 200+ kills claimed. Nearing the end of the war, the squadron's main fighter was the Yak-3, which would also be used after the war. However, due to the lack of spare parts, many French Yak-3s were cannibalized to keep others airworthy until the situation was untenable. Soon after, they were retired, with one surviving in an airport to this day. The squadron still lives as well and now flies Dassault Rafales.

The ▄Yak-3 was introduced as a premium fighter during Update 1.77 "Advancing Storm". The Yak-3 is an incredibly dangerous aircraft with its excellent performance, handling, and guns. Like many Yakovlev fighters, the Yak-3 is no exception to being able to manoeuvre well. It has very good manoeuvring energy retention, and the climb rate is also quite high at over 21 m/s. However, Soviet fighters were typically suited for low altitude, and the Yak-3 drops off in power at 5,000 metres and above (16,200 feet). Furthermore, since the Yak-3 is made out of wood, it has a low structural limit of 685 km/h (425 mph), so players need to be extra careful when going into dives. The Yak-3 is an excellent fighter for players to learn energy fighting and basic dogfighting tactics.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 4 100 m650 km/h
Turn time17 s
Max altitude10 400 m
EngineKlimov VK-105PF
TypeInline
Cooling systemWater
Take-off weight3 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 4,100 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 633 615 10400 18.3 18.9 17.9 17.9 348
Upgraded 674 654 17.2 17.4 24.3 21.3

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
685 320 N/A N/A 320 ~12 ~9
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 380 < 420 < 490 > 340

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural685 km/h
Gear320 km/h
  • 8.5 mm steel behind pilot
  • 10 mm steel on top of rear cockpit
  • 64 mm bulletproof
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 under pilot, 1 in each wing)

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB687 Sl icon.png
RB4 616 Sl icon.png
SB2 533 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts165 000 Sl icon.png
Aces590 Ge icon.png
Research Aces710 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 70 / 220 / 340 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 148 / 148 / 148 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Mods oil.png
100 octane fuel usage
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods ammo.png
ub_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
ub_new_gun
Mods ammo.png
shvak_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
shvak_new_gun

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 120 mm ShVAK cannon
Ammunition120 rounds
Fire rate800 shots/min
Weapon 22 x 12.7 mm Berezin UBS machine gun
Ammunition300 rounds
Fire rate996 shots/min
Main articles: ShVAK (20 mm), Berezin UB (12.7 mm)

The Yak-3 (France) is armed with:

  • 1 x 20 mm ShVAK cannon, nose-mounted (120 rpg)
  • 2 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine guns, nose-mounted (150 rpg = 300 total)

Usage in battles

The Yak-3 is the pinnacle of the piston engine Yakovlev design, with a much more powerful engine, the addition of a second MG (meaning the MGs are viable now!), though metal wings were not yet added until the Yak-9. The coolant system, now actually somewhat effective, has been moved to the wing roots (no "smiley face" below the nose), making the plane more streamlined. The cannon - the same old 20 mm ShVak - receives a pleasant upgrade: very effective Air Targets belts.

Boasting incredible engine performance on a light and agile airframe, you can easily climb with, or even outclimb your contemporary fighters, allowing you maintain an energy advantage over some at the start of a match. Unlike some of the other energy-fighters you will come across (Bf-109s and such), the Yak-3 has incredible maneuverability compared to them, found in its roll rate and turn radius. Its energy retention and engine power alone allow you to almost indefinitely hold a horizontal turn, making this plane an excellent dogfighter and can let you play both as a turn-fighter of sorts or a dedicated energy-fighter.

Flight performance of the Yak-3 is outstanding. While it can't out-turn the likes of a Zero, or execute Boom-and-Zoom tactics as well as a Bf-109, it can certainly handle nearly everything it will face. This plane truly excels at long and slow dogfights, where the engine power will allow you to recover from any turn with ease. The landing flaps, albeit rather weak, making stall-fighting and turning effectively under 300 km/h trivial, and will certainly help when dealing with enemies that outclass you in one area. The Yak can easily handle said stall maneuvers, and low-speed turns you may find yourself in. Most planes will have lost most of their speed and will struggle to accelerate in these conditions, making maneuvers like the high yo-yo absurdly useful.

Always beware of true turn-fighters (Spitfires, Zeros), as they may be able to take you down before you can force them to bleed energy. It is generally recommended to maintain an energy advantage (altitude is best), so they can never have a fight on their own terms. If in a dogfight with a turn-fighter, the Yak's agility can be a major aid in staying out of your opponent's flight path, so capitalize on this as best you can. As stated above, forcing your enemy to turn while staying untouched can allowing you to pull maneuvers quickly and accelerate when speed is needed to get on your enemies tail.

Even with the climbing performance the Yak offers, bomber-hunting isn't recommended. You have a very limited ammunition supply making even extending dogfights with more than one enemy stressful. Thankfully, the weapons you get won't disappoint. Both your gun and cannon have good muzzle velocities with high rates of fire, and are effective all-around. Try to only hold bursts of a few rounds at a time to maximize damage potential while preserving ammo for later fights.

While certainly outperformed in areas like turn rates and BnZ potential, the Yak can accomplish any feat with proper skill from the pilot, making for one of the best multirole fighters currently in-game.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Stellar engine performance
  • Stall and vertical maneuvers are effective and easy
  • Energy retention is on-par with Bf-109s
  • Surprisingly very agile, with a great turn and roll rate
  • Doesn't struggle or begin to feel sluggish at low speeds
  • Effective armament
  • Great acceleration

Cons:

  • Mediocre rip speed - worsened by its powerful engine
  • No combat flaps, only equipped with landing flaps
  • No WEP, engine overheats at 100%
  • Poor engine performance above 5 km
  • Long bursts and bomber-hunting will quickly drain your ammo pool

History

The idea to produce a new fighter for the Red Army Air Force went as far back as 1941. It was then that the Yakovlev Design Bureau presented the I-30 prototype, intended an alternative to the earlier Yak-1 design. However, the German invasion of the USSR, as well as aluminium shortages, meant that the project had to be put on hold. Yakovlev resumed the development in 1943 while working on an upgraded version of the Yak-1 fighter. This time, it was decided that a new aircraft should be produced to completely replace the Yak-1 and Yak-7 models.

By September 1943, yet another improved variant was ready, designated Yak-1M Dubler, on which the canvas skin on the tail section was replaced with 2 mm plywood, and oil and water radiators were improved. The Dubler also had a new mastless antenna, a ring sight instead of a reflector sight, improved armour and a new propeller. Test pilots were impressed by the new prototype. Their report stated in part: "Yak-1M possessed excellent horizontal, and especially vertical, manoeuvrability. Top speed greatly improved compared to earlier serial-production Yaks. Despite the improved performance, the aircraft remains easy to fly and does not require extensive pilot training."

The new machine was dubbed as the Yak-3 and entered service with the Red Army Air Force in 1944. The Yak-3 was a further modification of the Yak-1, produced in 1944 and 1945, with a total of 4,848 built, and considered one of the best fighters of the war.

The new fighter quickly became very popular with Soviet pilots. They highly praised its solid armament of two Berezin UBS 12.7 mm machine guns and one ShVAK 20 mm cannon as well as ease of piloting and superb low-altitude performance. Marcel Albert, the top scoring French ace of World War II, cited the Yak-3 as one of the best fighters of the war, along with the P-51 Mustang and the Supermarine Spitfire. After the war, the Yak-3 was also used by the Air Forces of Socialist Yugoslavia and Poland.[1]

Media

Skins
Videos
Premium Review: Yak-3 (France) [Brilliant Beauty!]" - Jengar
Premium Review. Yak-3 (France). An effective Bruiser - Joseph 2000
The Shooting Range #73 - Pages of History section at 08:54 discusses the Yak-3 (France) and the Nomandie-Niemen Regiment.

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;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links

References

  1. ↑ [Aircraft Profile] Yak-3


A.S. Yakovlev Design Bureau (Яковлев Опытное конструкторское бюро)
Fighters 
Yak-1  Yak-1 · Yak-1B
Yak-3  Yak-3 · Eremin's Yak-3(e) · Yak-3 (VK-107) · Yak-3P · Yak-3T · Yak-3U
Yak-7  Yak-7B
Yak-9  Yak-9 · Yak-9B · Yak-9K · Golovachev's Yak-9M · Yak-9P · Yak-9T · Yak-9U · Yak-9UT
Twin-engine fighters  I-29
Jet fighters 
Yak-15  Yak-15P · Yak-15
Yak-17  Yak-17
Yak-23  Yak-23
Yak-30  Yak-30D
Yak-141  Yak-141
Strike aircraft 
Yak-2  Yak-2 KABB
Yak-38  Yak-38 · Yak-38M
Bombers  Yak-4
Jet bombers  Yak-28B
Foreign use  ▄Yak-3 · Challe's ▄Yak-9T · ◔Yak-9P
Captured  ▀Yak-1B

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

France premium aircraft
Fighters  D.371 H.S.9 · Pallier's D.510 · ▄P-39Q-25 · ▄P-40F-5 Lafayette · ▄P-47D-22-RE · F-6C-10-NA
  M.B.152C1 · ▄Yak-3 · Challe's ▄Yak-9T · NC.900 · S.O.8000 Narval
Jet fighters  ◘Sea Hawk Mk.50 · Milan · Mirage F1C-200
Strike aircraft  ▄AD-4NA · F-84F IAF
Bombers  Late 298D · ▄PBY-5A Late
Jet bombers  Vautour IIA IDF/AF · S.O.4050 Vautour IIN

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