Difference between revisions of "BTR-152D"

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{{About
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| about = Soviet SPAA '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = the other version
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| link = BTR-152A
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}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=ussr_btr_152d
 
|code=ussr_btr_152d
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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 "Kings of Battle"]].
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The '''BTR-152D''' is an improved variant of the BTR-152-based self-propelled anti-aircraft gun family. The design incorporates four [[KPV (14.5 mm)|14.5 mm KPVT]] heavy machine guns in a quad mount, increasing the vehicle's firepower over the previous [[BTR-152A]]. Other enhancements include an external tire pressure regulation system, a front-mounted winch, and night vision devices for the driver.
 +
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update "Kings of Battle"]], the BTR-152D is very similar to its predecessor. However, firepower is greatly increased, making it much easier to bring down enemy aircraft. Armor-piercing ammunition can penetrate significant armor at close ranges. Nonetheless, it is still lightly armoured and is not recommended to be used to primarily engage enemy ground vehicles.
  
 
== 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.''
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As the BTR-152D is an armored personnel carrier, its armor is very light compared to tanks. However, relative to other truck-based anti-aircraft vehicles, it has a relatively good armor profile. Its armor, although light, can protect the crew against light machine gun fire and shrapnel. In fact, due to the thinness of the armor, it may prevent incoming APHE ammunition from detonating, causing the round to overpenetrate. Although the armor can shrug off small-caliber machine guns, vehicles fitted with heavy machine guns and autocannons can easily punch through the armor and take out the crew rapidly.
 +
 
 +
The cabin and troop compartment are semi-enclosed, having side armor but lacking a roof. This means that attacking aircraft and machine guns positioned higher than the BTR-152D's roof line will be able to easily hit crew members. The turret is essentially unarmored except for a thin gunshield that does not elevate with the guns, meaning that it will not protect against aircraft coming from high angles. The lack of a roof also means that high-explosive weapons will easily overpressure this vehicle, whether connecting with it directly or detonating nearby. Although rare, [[Incendiary weapons]] will burn the crew near-instantaneously if flames get inside the vehicle.
 +
 
 +
The crew size of the BTR-152D is relatively large, meaning that the vehicle can lose more crewmembers than other vehicles while staying operational. However, the crew are situated very close to each other, meaning that enemy fire that penetrates the armor can take out most if not all of the crew in quick succession.
 +
 
 +
Due to the overall armor profile, it is inadviseable to rely on the BTR-152D's armor. It is recommended to play carefully, similar to other anti-aircraft vehicles, trying not to get hit.
 +
 
 +
'''Armour type:'''
  
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
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* Rolled homogenous armor (Hull, Gunshield)
 +
* Structural steel (Wheel wells, Bumper)
 +
* Bulletproof glass (Viewing ports)<!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
 
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
 
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
 
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
 
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
| Hull || ___ mm || ___ mm ''Top'' <br> ___ mm ''Bottom'' || ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
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| Hull || 13 mm (34-64°) ''Grille''<br>13 mm (42°) ''Cabin''<br>12 mm (42°) ''Viewing ports''<br>6 mm (84°) ''Hood''<br>3 mm (0°) ''Bumper''
|-
+
| 10 mm (7-22°) ''Cabin''<br>10 mm (7°) ''Doors'' 10 mm (0°) ''Sides'' <br>10 mm (7-23°) ''Rear'' 6 mm (0-38°) ''Wheel wells''
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
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| 8 mm (0°) ''Rear''<br>10 mm (0°) ''Spare tire''<br>6 mm (0°) ''Rear bumper'' 
 +
| 6 mm (87°) ''Cabin''
 
|-
 
|-
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
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| Turret || 6 mm (16°) ''Gunshield'' <br> 10 mm (0°) ''Gun mount''
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| 6 mm (0°) ''Ammunition'' <br> 6 mm (0°) ''Turret ring''
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| 6 mm (6-10°) ''Gun mount'' <br> 6 mm (0°) ''Turret ring''
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| 6 mm (90°) ''Gunshield'' <br> 0 mm (0°) ''Turret'' ''roof''
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
 
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
 
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
 
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
 +
* Wheels are 10 mm thick
 +
* Gunshield section rotates horizontally with the turret, covering different small sections of the hull depending on its position
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 
{{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 mobility of the BTR-152D is decent overall, being able to reach relatively high forward speeds on road and decent speeds offroad for a wheeled vehicle. Compared to its maximum forward speed, the vehicle's reverse is relatively lackluster, although not terrible. Before driving over hills or around corners, it is recommended to check for enemies that might force a retreat. Researching ''Mobility'' modifications will noticeably improve the vehicle's performance.
 +
 
 +
Keep in mind that due to the BTR-152D's relatively light weight and low engine power, obstacles such as fences and light vegetation will significantly slow it down if hit, while large trees will completely stop the vehicle.
  
{{tankMobility}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=156|rbMinHp=97}}
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
 +
One recommended order of research is as follows:
 +
 +
* ''Improved Parts'' and ''Improved FPE'': These are high-priority modifications and will significantly improve the BTR-152D's ability to return to combat after taking damage.
 +
* ''Adjustment of Fire'': This modification will improve weapon groupings and increase accuracy.
 +
* ''Elevation Mechanism'' and ''Horizontal Drive'': As the BTR-152D is an anti-aircraft vehicle, it is recommended to hold weapon handling modifications in high priority. These will increase the ability to track enemy aircraft by decreasing the time for weapons to be brought onto the target.
 +
* ''IAI'' and ''API-T'': Although the default ''Universal'' ammunition is very potent, players may opt to research and choose between ''IAI'' (Immediate-Action Incendiary) and ''API-T'' (Armor-Piercing Incendiary, Tracer) ammunition belts. ''IAI'' ammunition belts contain more IAI ammunition than other belts, which is very potent against aircraft and can easily set fire to aircraft fuel tanks and engines. ''API-T'' ammunition belts contains the AP-I(c) (Armor-Piercing, Incendiary, cermet core) round which has 10 mm of increased armor penetration over the standard API-T round. This belt focuses on armor penetration and can be used against heavy aircraft armor and against lighty armored ground vehicles.
 +
* ''Brake System'': Due to the BTR-152D's high top speed, it may be difficult to slow the vehicle down when going at its maximum speed. This modification will reduce the time it takes for the vehicle to stop and can possibly prevent the vehicle from driving off ledges or rolling past cover.
 +
* ''Crew Replenishment'': Due to the lack of an armored roof, crewmembers will often be knocked out by enemy aircraft's strafing runs. This modification will increase the vehicle's survivability.
 +
* General ''Mobility'': These modifications will increase the vehicle's mobility, allowing it to reach higher top speeds faster than before. Since it is not recommended to drive the BTR-152D to the front lines, these modifications may be researched later than others.
 +
* ''Artillery Support'': If using the BTR-152D in a more frontline role, this modification can allow for periodic calling of artillery in a designated sector which is capable of knocking out enemies. This may be useful if there are other anti-aircraft vehicles nearby.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
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{{main|KPVT (14.5 mm)}}
 
{{main|KPVT (14.5 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.''
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Players who are experienced with the earlier [[BTR-152A]] will find the BTR-152D's weapon handling to be nearly identical, as it is essentially the same vehicle fitted with an extra two KPVT machine guns, increasing the weapon total to four.
 +
 
 +
Weapon traverse is fast and can allow players to get their guns on targets fairly quickly. An unusual note about the BTR-152D's weapon handling is that the two machine guns mounted to the top of the turret elevate from a different position than the front two machine guns. This means that overall dispersion slightly increases as the turret elevates higher due to the guns being spaced further apart than when they are lowered. Because of this quirk, these guns may be slightly more accurate when shooting at aircraft that are coming in low.
 +
 
 +
The 14.5 mm KPVT heavy machine guns fire rapidly and fairly accurately. Although considered a heavy machine gun, its performance is somewhere between a heavy machine gun and an autocannon. Overall armor penetration is very good for its class. API-T and AP-I(c) ammunition can easily penetrate aircraft armor and armored glass, leading to the destruction of important components and possibly sniping the pilot directly. These rounds can also be used to penetrate lightly armored ground vehicles and even the sides of medium tanks at close ranges. IAI ammunition easily lights aircraft fuel tanks and components on fire.
 +
 
 +
The machine guns have relatively high velocity, meaning that players can lead less when aiming at enemy aircraft and rounds will reach the target faster than other guns. It actually may take a bit of practice for players to get used to these guns, especially if they are used to leading targets with autocannons mounted to previous Soviet anti-aircraft vehicles such as the [[ZSU-37]].
 +
 
 +
Reload speed is average for the guns' class but not instant. When enemy aircraft are closing in during the reloading process, it may feel like hours. It is recommended to ensure that the machine guns are fully loaded before engaging the enemy. This may involve sitting on a capture point or firing off the remaining belt in order to reload a full belt of ammunition.
 +
 
 +
It is recommended to fire bursts around four seconds long in order to keep up a good fire rate while not overheating the guns. Overheating the guns will force the gunner to unjam the weapons, which will prevent you from firing until they are reloaded. If this happens during a critical phase of attack, it may result in the BTR-152D's destruction.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
| rowspan="2" | 2,400 (150) || rowspan="2" | 600 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+89° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__ || rowspan="2" | _.__
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| rowspan="2" | 2,400 (150) || rowspan="2" | 600 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+89° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | - || 40.5 || 56.1 || 68.1 || 75.3 || 80.1 || rowspan="2" | 10.40 || rowspan="2" | 9.20 || rowspan="2" | 8.48 || rowspan="2" | 8.00
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
| __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
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| 27.4 || 32.2 || 39.1 || 43.2 || 46.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
 +
 
* '''Universal:''' {{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|IAI|Immediate-action incendiary}}
 
* '''Universal:''' {{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|IAI|Immediate-action incendiary}}
 
* '''API-T:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I(c)|Armour-piercing incendiary (cermet core)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|IAI|Immediate-action incendiary}}
 
* '''API-T:''' {{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I(c)|Armour-piercing incendiary (cermet core)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|API-T|Armour-piercing incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|IAI|Immediate-action incendiary}}
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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).''
+
There are a few ways to play the BTR-152D, although its main role is as an anti-aircraft vehicle.
 +
 
 +
'''Anti-Aircraft Role'''
 +
 
 +
When performing the anti-aircraft role, it is recommended to stay behind the front lines and attack aircraft as they fly over the battlefield. Players may decide to take IAI ammunition belts to increase anti-aircraft firepower. Since weapon handling is excellent, players may be able to take out multiple aircraft in quick succession as long as they are vigilant and always watching the skies in front, above, and behind them.
 +
 
 +
It is recommended to give destruction priority to enemy aircraft that carry heavy machine guns, autocannons and/or explosive weapons like bombs and rockets. Bombers such as the [[He 111 H-16]] may fly at higher altitudes to stay away from anti-aircraft fire. If air defense is unsuccessful in taking down the bomber, players can use the BTR-152D's mobility to escape the area or hide behind cover before the bombs hit the ground. Aircraft with rockets such as the [[M.B.175T]] may launch salvoes from long ranges. It is recommended look out for these aircraft and hide or counter-attack before they launch their rockets. Aircraft with heavy machine guns and autocannons such as the [[Bf 110 G-4]] can be devastating to the BTR-152D due to their damage output against exposed crewmembers. It is recommended to begin firing at longer ranges before they begin firing, with the 14.5 mm AP ammunition hopefully sniping their pilots.
 +
 
 +
Be aware that firing for long periods of time will alert enemies to your position. It is recommended to change positions periodically, especially if your position is outside of spawns.
 +
 
 +
'''Light Anti-Ground Role'''
 +
 
 +
If players have researched API-T belts containing the AP-I (cermet core) round, players may opt to use the BTR-152D as a sort of early infantry fighting vehicle. This ammunition penetrates a generous amount of armor for its size and can easily punch through light targets. Some medium tanks and armored tank destroyers can be penetrated from the sides and rear at close ranges.
 +
 
 +
Utilizing the BTR-152D's high top speed, players can flank the battlefield and attack enemy vehicles using hit-and-run tactics. If an enemy vehicle's armor cannot be penetrated, players can use the guns to quickly disable the vehicle's tracks and possibly their weapons.
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 +
It is recommended to beware of ground vehicles fitted with autocannons or roof-mounted heavy machine guns such as the [[Wirbelwind]] or [[M4A2]] as they can penetrate the BTR-152D and wipe out the crew quickly. Enemy anti-aircraft vehicles are particularly dangerous as they primarily use these types of weapons.
  
 
=== 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".'' -->
''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:'''
*
+
 
 +
* Hull armor can shrug off light machine guns and shrapnel
 +
* Relatively large crew size
 +
* Decent mobility with good forward speed on-road
 +
* Weapon traverse is quick and guns have high velocity
 +
* Four KPVT heavy machine guns can output significant damage against aircraft
 +
* IAI ammunition can easily set aircraft components on fire, API-T and AP-I(c) ammunition can penetrate light to medium armor
 +
* At first glance, the truck chassis may trick enemies into ignoring this vehicle in urban environments
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
*
+
 
 +
* Thin armor can be penetrated by heavy machine guns and autocannons
 +
* Open-topped design means the vehicle is vulnerable to strafing from enemy planes and explosions
 +
* Closely positioned crewmembers
 +
* Mobility is decreased off-road due to wheeled design
 +
* Relatively low engine power and light hull will cause impact with obstacles to slow or stop the vehicle
 +
* Relatively small caliber may not do significant damage against large aircraft at a distance
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
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== 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_btr_152d Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''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.'' -->
''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;''
+
'''Related development'''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[BTR-152A]]
 +
 
 +
'''Vehicles of similar configuration or role'''
 +
 
 +
* [[Sd.Kfz.251/21]]
 +
* [[M16 MGMC]]
 +
* [[Wirbelwind]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==

Revision as of 11:30, 28 April 2024

Rank IV USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Tu-1 Pack
This page is about the Soviet SPAA BTR-152D. For the other version, see BTR-152A.
BTR-152D
ussr_btr_152d.png
GarageImage BTR-152D.jpg
BTR-152D
AB RB SB
4.0 4.0 4.0
Class:
Research:26 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:76 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The BTR-152D is an improved variant of the BTR-152-based self-propelled anti-aircraft gun family. The design incorporates four 14.5 mm KPVT heavy machine guns in a quad mount, increasing the vehicle's firepower over the previous BTR-152A. Other enhancements include an external tire pressure regulation system, a front-mounted winch, and night vision devices for the driver.

Introduced in Update "Kings of Battle", the BTR-152D is very similar to its predecessor. However, firepower is greatly increased, making it much easier to bring down enemy aircraft. Armor-piercing ammunition can penetrate significant armor at close ranges. Nonetheless, it is still lightly armoured and is not recommended to be used to primarily engage enemy ground vehicles.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull13 / 10 / 8
Turret0 / 0 / 0
Crew5 people
Visibility101 %

As the BTR-152D is an armored personnel carrier, its armor is very light compared to tanks. However, relative to other truck-based anti-aircraft vehicles, it has a relatively good armor profile. Its armor, although light, can protect the crew against light machine gun fire and shrapnel. In fact, due to the thinness of the armor, it may prevent incoming APHE ammunition from detonating, causing the round to overpenetrate. Although the armor can shrug off small-caliber machine guns, vehicles fitted with heavy machine guns and autocannons can easily punch through the armor and take out the crew rapidly.

The cabin and troop compartment are semi-enclosed, having side armor but lacking a roof. This means that attacking aircraft and machine guns positioned higher than the BTR-152D's roof line will be able to easily hit crew members. The turret is essentially unarmored except for a thin gunshield that does not elevate with the guns, meaning that it will not protect against aircraft coming from high angles. The lack of a roof also means that high-explosive weapons will easily overpressure this vehicle, whether connecting with it directly or detonating nearby. Although rare, Incendiary weapons will burn the crew near-instantaneously if flames get inside the vehicle.

The crew size of the BTR-152D is relatively large, meaning that the vehicle can lose more crewmembers than other vehicles while staying operational. However, the crew are situated very close to each other, meaning that enemy fire that penetrates the armor can take out most if not all of the crew in quick succession.

Due to the overall armor profile, it is inadviseable to rely on the BTR-152D's armor. It is recommended to play carefully, similar to other anti-aircraft vehicles, trying not to get hit.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogenous armor (Hull, Gunshield)
  • Structural steel (Wheel wells, Bumper)
  • Bulletproof glass (Viewing ports)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 13 mm (34-64°) Grille
13 mm (42°) Cabin
12 mm (42°) Viewing ports
6 mm (84°) Hood
3 mm (0°) Bumper
10 mm (7-22°) Cabin
10 mm (7°) Doors 10 mm (0°) Sides
10 mm (7-23°) Rear 6 mm (0-38°) Wheel wells
8 mm (0°) Rear
10 mm (0°) Spare tire
6 mm (0°) Rear bumper
6 mm (87°) Cabin
Turret 6 mm (16°) Gunshield
10 mm (0°) Gun mount
6 mm (0°) Ammunition
6 mm (0°) Turret ring
6 mm (6-10°) Gun mount
6 mm (0°) Turret ring
6 mm (90°) Gunshield
0 mm (0°) Turret roof

Notes:

  • Wheels are 10 mm thick
  • Gunshield section rotates horizontally with the turret, covering different small sections of the hull depending on its position

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB91 / 12 km/h
RB and SB83 / 11 km/h
Number of gears8 forward
2 back
Weight8.8 t
Engine power
AB210 hp
RB and SB110 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB23.9 hp/t
RB and SB12.5 hp/t

The mobility of the BTR-152D is decent overall, being able to reach relatively high forward speeds on road and decent speeds offroad for a wheeled vehicle. Compared to its maximum forward speed, the vehicle's reverse is relatively lackluster, although not terrible. Before driving over hills or around corners, it is recommended to check for enemies that might force a retreat. Researching Mobility modifications will noticeably improve the vehicle's performance.

Keep in mind that due to the BTR-152D's relatively light weight and low engine power, obstacles such as fences and light vegetation will significantly slow it down if hit, while large trees will completely stop the vehicle.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 91 12 8.8 156 210 17.73 23.86
Realistic 83 11 97 110 11.02 12.5

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB1 416 → 1 836 Sl icon.png
RB1 108 → 1 437 Sl icon.png
SB1 673 → 2 169 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications24 700 Rp icon.png
44 900 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 100 Ge icon.png
Crew training22 000 Sl icon.png
Experts76 000 Sl icon.png
Aces400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces320 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
90 / 100 / 150 % Sl icon.png
142 / 142 / 142 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new wheels.png
Tires
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
100 Ge icon.png
Mods new car suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 000 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 000 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
2 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 800 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
100 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 000 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ussr.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
2 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 800 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
100 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
14mm_ussr_KPVT_HEI_ammo_pack
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
100 Ge icon.png
Mods aa cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 000 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
14mm_ussr_KPVT_API_ammo_pack
Research:
1 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 000 Sl icon.png
90 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
2 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 800 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 900 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png

One recommended order of research is as follows:

  • Improved Parts and Improved FPE: These are high-priority modifications and will significantly improve the BTR-152D's ability to return to combat after taking damage.
  • Adjustment of Fire: This modification will improve weapon groupings and increase accuracy.
  • Elevation Mechanism and Horizontal Drive: As the BTR-152D is an anti-aircraft vehicle, it is recommended to hold weapon handling modifications in high priority. These will increase the ability to track enemy aircraft by decreasing the time for weapons to be brought onto the target.
  • IAI and API-T: Although the default Universal ammunition is very potent, players may opt to research and choose between IAI (Immediate-Action Incendiary) and API-T (Armor-Piercing Incendiary, Tracer) ammunition belts. IAI ammunition belts contain more IAI ammunition than other belts, which is very potent against aircraft and can easily set fire to aircraft fuel tanks and engines. API-T ammunition belts contains the AP-I(c) (Armor-Piercing, Incendiary, cermet core) round which has 10 mm of increased armor penetration over the standard API-T round. This belt focuses on armor penetration and can be used against heavy aircraft armor and against lighty armored ground vehicles.
  • Brake System: Due to the BTR-152D's high top speed, it may be difficult to slow the vehicle down when going at its maximum speed. This modification will reduce the time it takes for the vehicle to stop and can possibly prevent the vehicle from driving off ledges or rolling past cover.
  • Crew Replenishment: Due to the lack of an armored roof, crewmembers will often be knocked out by enemy aircraft's strafing runs. This modification will increase the vehicle's survivability.
  • General Mobility: These modifications will increase the vehicle's mobility, allowing it to reach higher top speeds faster than before. Since it is not recommended to drive the BTR-152D to the front lines, these modifications may be researched later than others.
  • Artillery Support: If using the BTR-152D in a more frontline role, this modification can allow for periodic calling of artillery in a designated sector which is capable of knocking out enemies. This may be useful if there are other anti-aircraft vehicles nearby.

Armaments

Main armament

Ammunition2 400 rounds
Belt capacity150 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Vertical guidance-5° / 89°
Main article: KPVT (14.5 mm)

Players who are experienced with the earlier BTR-152A will find the BTR-152D's weapon handling to be nearly identical, as it is essentially the same vehicle fitted with an extra two KPVT machine guns, increasing the weapon total to four.

Weapon traverse is fast and can allow players to get their guns on targets fairly quickly. An unusual note about the BTR-152D's weapon handling is that the two machine guns mounted to the top of the turret elevate from a different position than the front two machine guns. This means that overall dispersion slightly increases as the turret elevates higher due to the guns being spaced further apart than when they are lowered. Because of this quirk, these guns may be slightly more accurate when shooting at aircraft that are coming in low.

The 14.5 mm KPVT heavy machine guns fire rapidly and fairly accurately. Although considered a heavy machine gun, its performance is somewhere between a heavy machine gun and an autocannon. Overall armor penetration is very good for its class. API-T and AP-I(c) ammunition can easily penetrate aircraft armor and armored glass, leading to the destruction of important components and possibly sniping the pilot directly. These rounds can also be used to penetrate lightly armored ground vehicles and even the sides of medium tanks at close ranges. IAI ammunition easily lights aircraft fuel tanks and components on fire.

The machine guns have relatively high velocity, meaning that players can lead less when aiming at enemy aircraft and rounds will reach the target faster than other guns. It actually may take a bit of practice for players to get used to these guns, especially if they are used to leading targets with autocannons mounted to previous Soviet anti-aircraft vehicles such as the ZSU-37.

Reload speed is average for the guns' class but not instant. When enemy aircraft are closing in during the reloading process, it may feel like hours. It is recommended to ensure that the machine guns are fully loaded before engaging the enemy. This may involve sitting on a capture point or firing off the remaining belt in order to reload a full belt of ammunition.

It is recommended to fire bursts around four seconds long in order to keep up a good fire rate while not overheating the guns. Overheating the guns will force the gunner to unjam the weapons, which will prevent you from firing until they are reloaded. If this happens during a critical phase of attack, it may result in the BTR-152D's destruction.

14.5 mm KPVT (x4) 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 2,400 (150) 600 -5°/+89° ±180° - 40.5 56.1 68.1 75.3 80.1 10.40 9.20 8.48 8.00
Realistic 27.4 32.2 39.1 43.2 46.0

Ammunition

  • Universal: AP-I · API-T · IAI
  • API-T: API-T · AP-I(c) · API-T · IAI
  • IAI: IAI · API-T

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
IAI 3 3 3 3 2 2
API-T 38 35 25 17 11 7
AP-I 39 37 27 18 13 9
AP-I(c) 49 46 34 23 16 11
Shell details
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s)
Projectile
mass (kg)
Fuse delay
(m)
Fuse sensitivity
(mm)
Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
IAI 1,000 0.06 0 0.25 3.4 47° 56° 65°
API-T 1,000 0.06 - - - 47° 56° 65°
AP-I 990 0.06 - - - 47° 56° 65°
AP-I(c) 1,000 0.07 - - - 47° 56° 65°

Ammo racks

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

Usage in battles

There are a few ways to play the BTR-152D, although its main role is as an anti-aircraft vehicle.

Anti-Aircraft Role

When performing the anti-aircraft role, it is recommended to stay behind the front lines and attack aircraft as they fly over the battlefield. Players may decide to take IAI ammunition belts to increase anti-aircraft firepower. Since weapon handling is excellent, players may be able to take out multiple aircraft in quick succession as long as they are vigilant and always watching the skies in front, above, and behind them.

It is recommended to give destruction priority to enemy aircraft that carry heavy machine guns, autocannons and/or explosive weapons like bombs and rockets. Bombers such as the He 111 H-16 may fly at higher altitudes to stay away from anti-aircraft fire. If air defense is unsuccessful in taking down the bomber, players can use the BTR-152D's mobility to escape the area or hide behind cover before the bombs hit the ground. Aircraft with rockets such as the M.B.175T may launch salvoes from long ranges. It is recommended look out for these aircraft and hide or counter-attack before they launch their rockets. Aircraft with heavy machine guns and autocannons such as the Bf 110 G-4 can be devastating to the BTR-152D due to their damage output against exposed crewmembers. It is recommended to begin firing at longer ranges before they begin firing, with the 14.5 mm AP ammunition hopefully sniping their pilots.

Be aware that firing for long periods of time will alert enemies to your position. It is recommended to change positions periodically, especially if your position is outside of spawns.

Light Anti-Ground Role

If players have researched API-T belts containing the AP-I (cermet core) round, players may opt to use the BTR-152D as a sort of early infantry fighting vehicle. This ammunition penetrates a generous amount of armor for its size and can easily punch through light targets. Some medium tanks and armored tank destroyers can be penetrated from the sides and rear at close ranges.

Utilizing the BTR-152D's high top speed, players can flank the battlefield and attack enemy vehicles using hit-and-run tactics. If an enemy vehicle's armor cannot be penetrated, players can use the guns to quickly disable the vehicle's tracks and possibly their weapons.

It is recommended to beware of ground vehicles fitted with autocannons or roof-mounted heavy machine guns such as the Wirbelwind or M4A2 as they can penetrate the BTR-152D and wipe out the crew quickly. Enemy anti-aircraft vehicles are particularly dangerous as they primarily use these types of weapons.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Hull armor can shrug off light machine guns and shrapnel
  • Relatively large crew size
  • Decent mobility with good forward speed on-road
  • Weapon traverse is quick and guns have high velocity
  • Four KPVT heavy machine guns can output significant damage against aircraft
  • IAI ammunition can easily set aircraft components on fire, API-T and AP-I(c) ammunition can penetrate light to medium armor
  • At first glance, the truck chassis may trick enemies into ignoring this vehicle in urban environments

Cons:

  • Thin armor can be penetrated by heavy machine guns and autocannons
  • Open-topped design means the vehicle is vulnerable to strafing from enemy planes and explosions
  • Closely positioned crewmembers
  • Mobility is decreased off-road due to wheeled design
  • Relatively low engine power and light hull will cause impact with obstacles to slow or stop the vehicle
  • Relatively small caliber may not do significant damage against large aircraft at a distance

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: https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <ref></ref>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <references />. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under === In-game description ===, also if applicable).

Media

Skins

See also

Related development

Vehicles of similar configuration or role

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • other literature.


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