Difference between revisions of "M53/59"

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== 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.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet SPAA {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]].
+
The M53/59, known as '''Praga PLDvK vz. 53/59-"Ještěrka"''' (Praga twin-cannon AA Model 53/59 "Lizard") in Czech, is an ex-Czechoslovak SPAA built from the chassis of a Praga V3S truck with a pair of 30 mm ZK453 autocannon onboard. Although this truck was designed and manufactured by the dawn of supersonic jets, these 30 mm cannons did provide devastating firepower against light targets where it would be hopeless against autocannons. The truck didn't see action in Czechoslovakia (and their successor states) but combat records in both South Europe and Africa still reflect its combat capability at support fire operations.
 +
 
 +
One of the newcomers of the [[Update "Sky Guardians"]] and part of the Soviet tech tree, it not only doubled its firepower over its Soviet counterparts, but also has a high rate of fire against any possible aerial targets or armoured targets which happen to show their sides. It has more than enough penetration at its rank to tear them down with ease; but players would still have to conserve ammo as 100 shells per load (50 per magazine) with a rather long reload time could possibly be a death sentence to the truck if the enemy has the means to take you down with ease (i.e. HMG, other autocannons or HE shells). Sneak up and flank unaware enemies or find a spot and conceal yourself, then unleash bullet storm upon them when they show their sides.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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{{Specs-Tank-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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
''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.''
+
The M53/59 is based on a Praga V3S 6x6 truck with a revised cabin to crew 4 out of the 5 of them (with only a gunner outside); surprisingly, although only covered by 10 mm of steel at front, it could deflect .50 HMG from some distance or at flat terrains thanks to its angular design with slopes; the engine block could also absorb some damages but prolonged hits will certainly bust the engine. Other that the front of the truck, the protection all-round is only rated for rifle-calibre bullets and sometimes if the enemies are close enough, they can take the crew down with ease, especially MG34 on German tanks with rather high rate of fire; another problem is the rather cramped crew compartment, anything larger than 14.5 mm machine guns/autocannons will certainly gun down the crews with ease even at distance; let alone shells with explosive filler which could detonate the racks of ammo right at the centre of mass or overpressure the crew altogether. So taking cover from time to time and flank the enemies can maximize its survivability. The crew is enclosed (except the gunner), this increases the survivability to enemy air units strafing compared to previous open-topped Soviet SPAAs. The exposed gunner is very prone to get hit during enemy air attacks. The vehicle is vulnerable to close artillery strikes, which can damage or destroy the vehicle relatively easily.
  
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
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{{Specs-Tank-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.'' -->
−
''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.''
+
The truck utilized the same Tatra T912-2 L6 diesel engine as the Praga V3S truck, although the revised cabin also added weight to the chassis, the truck could still travel at up to 60 km/h and reverse at a sufficient speed in case players need to make a swift escape from enemies. The speed is acceptable on roads, noticeable improvements over previous tracked Soviet SPAAs (e.g., ZiS-43, ZSU-37, etc.) but not as fast as the BTR-ZD. The M53/59 is unable to turn on the spot due to its wheeled chassis and it is hard to manoeuvre in tight and narrow streets.
  
−
{{tankMobility}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=156|rbMinHp=97}}
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{main|ZK453 (30 mm)}}
 
{{main|ZK453 (30 mm)}}
  
−
''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.''
+
Based on an existing WWII design and built by the Zbrojovka Vsetín and certified in 1953<ref>https://www.armedconflicts.com/CZK-vz-53-30-mm-PLDvK-t1111</ref>, the only weapon on the M53/59 is the 30 mm ZK453 autocannon with 50 shells per magazine- The rate of fire and penetration are certainly satisfying to take down aerial targets and ground targets even at distance thanks to its relative straight ballistics. But this is also not a gun for players who are trigger-happy: having only 400 rounds in total and relatively long reload time, it is best to save the shells for close targets which can utilize its HVAP shells well and fire at burst unless in emergency. The respectable turret traverse speed allows for quick response against incoming enemy air units. The M53/59 is able to fire directly forward as the crew compartment is low enough for the gun to fire horizontally towards the direction it is driving, this proves very advantageous when engaging enemy ground units as it reduces the reaction time significantly.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 400 (50) || rowspan="2" | 400 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+85° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
+
| rowspan="2" | 400 (50) || rowspan="2" | 450 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+85° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || 35.2 || 48.8 || 59.2 || 65.5 || 69.6 || rowspan="2" | 7.80 || rowspan="2" | 6.90 || rowspan="2" | 6.36 || rowspan="2" | 6.00
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| 23.8 || 28.0 || 34.0 || 37.6 || 40.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|FI-T|Fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
+
 
−
* '''30-JFSv-53:''' {{Annotation|FI-T|Fragmentation incendiary tracer}}
+
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|FI-T|Fragmentation incendiary tracer}} - This is an all-purpose ammunition belt that can be used for both anti-air and anti-ground purposes. A great belt to have during battles because it can engage all types of units without switching and reloading specific ammunition for either air or ground enemy units.
−
* '''30-JPZSv-53/59:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}
+
* '''30-JFSv-53:''' {{Annotation|FI-T|Fragmentation incendiary tracer}} - This is the HE belt, which should only be used against enemy air units; the ammunition is ineffective against enemy ground units, with the exception of lightly armoured tanks or other SPAA.
 +
* '''30-JPZSv-53/59:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}} - This is the AP belt used for anti-ground purpose. Use this belt for maximum efficiency against enemy ground units, but because it lacks HE ammunition, engaging enemy air units may be less effective.
  
 
{{:ZK453 (30 mm)/Ammunition|HVAP-T, FI-T}}
 
{{:ZK453 (30 mm)/Ammunition|HVAP-T, FI-T}}
 +
 +
Both ammunition belts have an initial shell velocity of up to 1000 m/s, making engaging air units easily with minimal lead. The HVAP-T rounds provide high penetrating at point blank range: they can effectively damage or destroy enemy tanks in close range. Ammunition can run out really fast due to the fast firing rate with long reloads intervals, this requires extra caution when engaging multiple enemy air units.
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but 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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
−
''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).''
+
The M53/59 has excellent anti-air capabilities, it also has outstanding anti-tank capabilities and a decent mobility. Despite the high-penetrating HVAP-T ammunition belt, it is critical not to stay too long in areas where the main fighting is taking place.
 +
 
 +
To use the M53/59, take note of good camping spots around each map, such as behind a house facing sideways towards a capture zone. For maximum survivability on the battlefield, it is critical to stay hidden and use cover throughout the map. For maps with little to no cover, try to stay hidden behind a hill to assess the overall situation; always look around the skies for enemy air units rather than focusing solely on the ground, as this vehicle's primary role is anti-air.
 +
 
 +
=== Playing against the enemy ===
 +
During battle, always try to stay in cover because open areas are dangerous. Pay attention to nearby enemy tank engines and only fire if you are certain your shells will penetrate the armour (e.g., light tanks, sides of medium or heavy tanks). If the enemy spots you and tries to engage you, it's already too late. Because the M53/59 is not a dedicated anti-tank vehicle, its main disadvantage is light armour with moderate mobility when compared to dedicated light tanks. When playing in tight and narrow streets, pay close attention because the vehicle does not turn in a tight radius.
 +
 
 +
Keep an eye on the map during battle to avoid facing enemy tanks. If you receive an inbound artillery alert, always change your position because close landing artillery shells can and will severely damage or destroy your vehicle.
 +
 
 +
=== Playing against M53/59 ===
 +
If you see an M53/59, always aim for the turret to disable the gun or at the very least knock out the gunner. Load a HE shell immediately for a follow-up shot to effectively destroy the M53/59. If you have a machine gun, use it, as there is a reasonably high chance of hitting the gunner. Never ignore an M53/59 when you see one, as an experienced enemy player can quickly tear through multiple friendly players if they are showing their flank. If you are on a light tank, avoid engaging M53/59 if possible because M53/59 has a better chance of destroying you. Immediately alert nearby friends to draw heavier armoured friendlies to deal with it.  
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
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''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''
 
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* High penetration for an SPAA, only comes short on Bofors 40 mm L/70.
 +
* High velocity cannon, extending its anti-aircraft/vehicle range.
 +
* High rate of fire, will quickly shred any lightly armoured vehicle or aircraft that comes within range.
 +
* Sufficiently fast turret traverse speed.
 +
* 5 crew members.
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Sluggish mobility for an SPAA.
 +
* Overall large profile due to the huge autocannon onboard.
 +
* Very limited protection against machine gun fire, gunner will very often be knocked out first, especially in critical moments.
 +
* Relative slow reload to other SPAAs.
 +
* Low ammunition count, easy to waste every magazine on aircraft without any hits within a few minutes.
 +
* Low magazine ammunition count of on 100 (50 per gun), coupled with a high rate of fire (450 rpm), giving the user a firing time of only around 20 seconds.
  
 
== 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).'' -->
−
''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).''
+
The M53/59 Praga is a Czechoslovak self-propelled anti-aircraft gun from the early Cold War era, armed with twin 30 mm AA autocannons developed in the 1950s. It was developed and introduced concurrently with the Soviet ZSU-57-2. In Czech, it was known as Praga PLDvK vz. 53/59 Ještěrka (lizard).
 +
 
 +
==== Development ====
 +
The SPAA was built on the chassis of a heavily modified and armoured six-wheel-drive truck. The SPAA has a traditional layout, with the engine in the front, the 4-crew cabin in the centre, and the anti-aircraft gun in the back. The anti-aircraft gun is a towed ZK453 weapon system variant. The weapon system uses large vertical 50-round magazines rather than the belt feeding system found in other SPAA of the same era.
 +
 
 +
The Praga V3S is a reliable chassis, but off-road capabilities are limited due to the increased weight caused by mounting the cannon. The chassis is powered by a Tatra 110 hp diesel engine, which allows for a top speed of 60 km/h on the road. The vehicle's maximum range is approximately 500 km, and it lacks amphibious capabilities. The vehicle was manufactured from the 1950s to 1978, with a total of 1450 units produced.
 +
 
 +
The crew is only protected from small arms fire and artillery shell splinters by thin steel armour. During engagement with enemy air targets, the gunner is fully exposed on the gun mount. The M53/59 only has optical gun sights and no radar or fire control system. This severely limits its performance in poor weather, low-light conditions, or against fast-moving targets.
 +
 
 +
==== Replacement ====
 +
While the anti-aircraft role is mostly obsolete in modern times, it can be used effectively as a support role for ground forces against enemy soft targets, particularly during the Yugoslav wars. It is still used by armies in Egypt, Libya, Serbia, and Slovakia, among others.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ussr_m53_59 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
''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;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
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* [[wt:en/news/8132-development-m53-59-czechoslovak-lizard-en|[Devblog] М53/59 Czechoslovak Lizard]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/8132-development-m53-59-czechoslovak-lizard-en|[Devblog] М53/59 Czechoslovak Lizard]]
 +
 +
=== References ===
 +
<references />
  
 
{{USSR anti-aircraft vehicles}}
 
{{USSR anti-aircraft vehicles}}
 
[[Category:Wheeled ground vehicles]]
 
[[Category:Wheeled ground vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 05:37, 11 April 2024

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
M53/59
ussr_m53_59.png
GarageImage M53-59.jpg
M53/59
USSR flag.png USSR
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
6.3 6.3 6.3
Class:
Research:63 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:200 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The M53/59, known as Praga PLDvK vz. 53/59-"Ještěrka" (Praga twin-cannon AA Model 53/59 "Lizard") in Czech, is an ex-Czechoslovak SPAA built from the chassis of a Praga V3S truck with a pair of 30 mm ZK453 autocannon onboard. Although this truck was designed and manufactured by the dawn of supersonic jets, these 30 mm cannons did provide devastating firepower against light targets where it would be hopeless against autocannons. The truck didn't see action in Czechoslovakia (and their successor states) but combat records in both South Europe and Africa still reflect its combat capability at support fire operations.

One of the newcomers of the Update "Sky Guardians" and part of the Soviet tech tree, it not only doubled its firepower over its Soviet counterparts, but also has a high rate of fire against any possible aerial targets or armoured targets which happen to show their sides. It has more than enough penetration at its rank to tear them down with ease; but players would still have to conserve ammo as 100 shells per load (50 per magazine) with a rather long reload time could possibly be a death sentence to the truck if the enemy has the means to take you down with ease (i.e. HMG, other autocannons or HE shells). Sneak up and flank unaware enemies or find a spot and conceal yourself, then unleash bullet storm upon them when they show their sides.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull10 / 6 / 6
Turret6 / 6 / 6
Crew5 people
Visibility75 %

The M53/59 is based on a Praga V3S 6x6 truck with a revised cabin to crew 4 out of the 5 of them (with only a gunner outside); surprisingly, although only covered by 10 mm of steel at front, it could deflect .50 HMG from some distance or at flat terrains thanks to its angular design with slopes; the engine block could also absorb some damages but prolonged hits will certainly bust the engine. Other that the front of the truck, the protection all-round is only rated for rifle-calibre bullets and sometimes if the enemies are close enough, they can take the crew down with ease, especially MG34 on German tanks with rather high rate of fire; another problem is the rather cramped crew compartment, anything larger than 14.5 mm machine guns/autocannons will certainly gun down the crews with ease even at distance; let alone shells with explosive filler which could detonate the racks of ammo right at the centre of mass or overpressure the crew altogether. So taking cover from time to time and flank the enemies can maximize its survivability. The crew is enclosed (except the gunner), this increases the survivability to enemy air units strafing compared to previous open-topped Soviet SPAAs. The exposed gunner is very prone to get hit during enemy air attacks. The vehicle is vulnerable to close artillery strikes, which can damage or destroy the vehicle relatively easily.

Armour type:

Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull ___ mm ___ mm Top
___ mm Bottom 		___ mm ___ - ___ mm
Turret ___ - ___ mm Turret front
___ mm Gun mantlet 		___ - ___ mm ___ - ___ mm ___ - ___ mm
Cupola ___ mm ___ mm ___ mm ___ mm

Notes:

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB66 / 11 km/h
RB and SB60 / 10 km/h
Number of gears4 forward
1 back
Weight10.3 t
Engine power
AB210 hp
RB and SB110 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB20.4 hp/t
RB and SB10.7 hp/t

The truck utilized the same Tatra T912-2 L6 diesel engine as the Praga V3S truck, although the revised cabin also added weight to the chassis, the truck could still travel at up to 60 km/h and reverse at a sufficient speed in case players need to make a swift escape from enemies. The speed is acceptable on roads, noticeable improvements over previous tracked Soviet SPAAs (e.g., ZiS-43, ZSU-37, etc.) but not as fast as the BTR-ZD. The M53/59 is unable to turn on the spot due to its wheeled chassis and it is hard to manoeuvre in tight and narrow streets.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 66 11 10.3 156 210 15.15 20.39
Realistic 60 10 97 110 9.42 10.68

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 487 → 5 819 Sl icon.png
RB3 300 → 4 280 Sl icon.png
SB4 997 → 6 481 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications52 700 Rp icon.png
90 700 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training57 000 Sl icon.png
Experts200 000 Sl icon.png
Aces800 Ge icon.png
Research Aces520 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
120 / 150 / 220 % Sl icon.png
172 / 172 / 172 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new wheels.png
Tires
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 500 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods new car suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 100 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 100 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
4 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 600 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
5 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 800 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
5 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 800 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 500 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 100 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ussr.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
4 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 600 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 500 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
30mm_ussr_HE_ammo_pack
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 500 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods aa cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 100 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
30mm_ussr_AP_ammo_pack
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 100 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
4 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 600 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
5 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 800 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Main armament

2 x 30 mm ZK453 cannon
Ammunition400 rounds
Belt capacity50 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
7.8 → 6.0 s
Fire rate450 shots/min
Vertical guidance-10° / 85°
Main article: ZK453 (30 mm)

Based on an existing WWII design and built by the Zbrojovka Vsetín and certified in 1953[1], the only weapon on the M53/59 is the 30 mm ZK453 autocannon with 50 shells per magazine- The rate of fire and penetration are certainly satisfying to take down aerial targets and ground targets even at distance thanks to its relative straight ballistics. But this is also not a gun for players who are trigger-happy: having only 400 rounds in total and relatively long reload time, it is best to save the shells for close targets which can utilize its HVAP shells well and fire at burst unless in emergency. The respectable turret traverse speed allows for quick response against incoming enemy air units. The M53/59 is able to fire directly forward as the crew compartment is low enough for the gun to fire horizontally towards the direction it is driving, this proves very advantageous when engaging enemy ground units as it reduces the reaction time significantly.

30 mm ZK453 (x2) Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 400 (50) 450 -10°/+85° ±180° - 35.2 48.8 59.2 65.5 69.6 7.80 6.90 6.36 6.00
Realistic 23.8 28.0 34.0 37.6 40.0

Ammunition

  • Default: HVAP-T · FI-T - This is an all-purpose ammunition belt that can be used for both anti-air and anti-ground purposes. A great belt to have during battles because it can engage all types of units without switching and reloading specific ammunition for either air or ground enemy units.
  • 30-JFSv-53: FI-T - This is the HE belt, which should only be used against enemy air units; the ammunition is ineffective against enemy ground units, with the exception of lightly armoured tanks or other SPAA.
  • 30-JPZSv-53/59: HVAP-T - This is the AP belt used for anti-ground purpose. Use this belt for maximum efficiency against enemy ground units, but because it lacks HE ammunition, engaging enemy air units may be less effective.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
HVAP-T 91 88 74 60 49 40
FI-T 9 9 8 6 5 4
Shell details
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
HVAP-T 1,000 0.43 - - - 66° 70° 72°
FI-T 1,000 0.45 0.1 0.1 63.14 47° 56° 65°

Both ammunition belts have an initial shell velocity of up to 1000 m/s, making engaging air units easily with minimal lead. The HVAP-T rounds provide high penetrating at point blank range: they can effectively damage or destroy enemy tanks in close range. Ammunition can run out really fast due to the fast firing rate with long reloads intervals, this requires extra caution when engaging multiple enemy air units.

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
8 __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __

Usage in battles

The M53/59 has excellent anti-air capabilities, it also has outstanding anti-tank capabilities and a decent mobility. Despite the high-penetrating HVAP-T ammunition belt, it is critical not to stay too long in areas where the main fighting is taking place.

To use the M53/59, take note of good camping spots around each map, such as behind a house facing sideways towards a capture zone. For maximum survivability on the battlefield, it is critical to stay hidden and use cover throughout the map. For maps with little to no cover, try to stay hidden behind a hill to assess the overall situation; always look around the skies for enemy air units rather than focusing solely on the ground, as this vehicle's primary role is anti-air.

Playing against the enemy

During battle, always try to stay in cover because open areas are dangerous. Pay attention to nearby enemy tank engines and only fire if you are certain your shells will penetrate the armour (e.g., light tanks, sides of medium or heavy tanks). If the enemy spots you and tries to engage you, it's already too late. Because the M53/59 is not a dedicated anti-tank vehicle, its main disadvantage is light armour with moderate mobility when compared to dedicated light tanks. When playing in tight and narrow streets, pay close attention because the vehicle does not turn in a tight radius.

Keep an eye on the map during battle to avoid facing enemy tanks. If you receive an inbound artillery alert, always change your position because close landing artillery shells can and will severely damage or destroy your vehicle.

Playing against M53/59

If you see an M53/59, always aim for the turret to disable the gun or at the very least knock out the gunner. Load a HE shell immediately for a follow-up shot to effectively destroy the M53/59. If you have a machine gun, use it, as there is a reasonably high chance of hitting the gunner. Never ignore an M53/59 when you see one, as an experienced enemy player can quickly tear through multiple friendly players if they are showing their flank. If you are on a light tank, avoid engaging M53/59 if possible because M53/59 has a better chance of destroying you. Immediately alert nearby friends to draw heavier armoured friendlies to deal with it.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High penetration for an SPAA, only comes short on Bofors 40 mm L/70.
  • High velocity cannon, extending its anti-aircraft/vehicle range.
  • High rate of fire, will quickly shred any lightly armoured vehicle or aircraft that comes within range.
  • Sufficiently fast turret traverse speed.
  • 5 crew members.

Cons:

  • Sluggish mobility for an SPAA.
  • Overall large profile due to the huge autocannon onboard.
  • Very limited protection against machine gun fire, gunner will very often be knocked out first, especially in critical moments.
  • Relative slow reload to other SPAAs.
  • Low ammunition count, easy to waste every magazine on aircraft without any hits within a few minutes.
  • Low magazine ammunition count of on 100 (50 per gun), coupled with a high rate of fire (450 rpm), giving the user a firing time of only around 20 seconds.

History

The M53/59 Praga is a Czechoslovak self-propelled anti-aircraft gun from the early Cold War era, armed with twin 30 mm AA autocannons developed in the 1950s. It was developed and introduced concurrently with the Soviet ZSU-57-2. In Czech, it was known as Praga PLDvK vz. 53/59 Ještěrka (lizard).

Development

The SPAA was built on the chassis of a heavily modified and armoured six-wheel-drive truck. The SPAA has a traditional layout, with the engine in the front, the 4-crew cabin in the centre, and the anti-aircraft gun in the back. The anti-aircraft gun is a towed ZK453 weapon system variant. The weapon system uses large vertical 50-round magazines rather than the belt feeding system found in other SPAA of the same era.

The Praga V3S is a reliable chassis, but off-road capabilities are limited due to the increased weight caused by mounting the cannon. The chassis is powered by a Tatra 110 hp diesel engine, which allows for a top speed of 60 km/h on the road. The vehicle's maximum range is approximately 500 km, and it lacks amphibious capabilities. The vehicle was manufactured from the 1950s to 1978, with a total of 1450 units produced.

The crew is only protected from small arms fire and artillery shell splinters by thin steel armour. During engagement with enemy air targets, the gunner is fully exposed on the gun mount. The M53/59 only has optical gun sights and no radar or fire control system. This severely limits its performance in poor weather, low-light conditions, or against fast-moving targets.

Replacement

While the anti-aircraft role is mostly obsolete in modern times, it can be used effectively as a support role for ground forces against enemy soft targets, particularly during the Yugoslav wars. It is still used by armies in Egypt, Libya, Serbia, and Slovakia, among others.

Media

Skins

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

External links

References

  1. ↑ https://www.armedconflicts.com/CZK-vz-53-30-mm-PLDvK-t1111


USSR anti-aircraft vehicles
GAZ-AAA  GAZ-AAA (4M) · GAZ-AAA (DShK)
BTR-152  BTR-152A · BTR-152D
Wheeled/Half-tracked  GAZ-MM (72-K) · ZiS-12 (94-KM) · ZiS-43
Radar SPAAG  ZSU-23-4 · ZSU-37-2
SAM  ZSU-23-4M4 · Strela-10M2 · 2S6 · Pantsir-S1
Other  ZSU-23-4M2 · ZUT-37 · ZSU-37 · BTR-ZD · ZSU-57-2
Czechoslovakia  M53/59
North Vietnam  ▂Phòng không T-34

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