Difference between revisions of "Q-5L"

From War Thunder Wiki
Jump to: navigation, search
Visual (beta)Wikitext
(Edits)
m (→‎Usage in battles: adding cons about low countermeasure counts)
 
(14 intermediate revisions by 8 users not shown)
Line 11: Line 11:
 
== 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.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (NATO: Fantan) is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Chinese strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Fire and Ice"]].
+
The Q-5L (Chinese: 强-5L型强击机; unified NATO Codename: Fantan) was one of the final versions of the Q-5 family developed in the early 2000s, focusing on improving the electronics for ground-attack capabilities. China had been closely observing the USAF's guided munitions since the Vietnam War, during which their AGM-62 Walleyes performed exceptionally well in attacking critical infrastructure to stall attacks from the Viet Cong. Due to political turmoil, the PLAAF failed to acquire foreign targeting pods, so testing of domestic LGBs and guidance pods began in the 1990s with various prototypes. Although the plan for a 2-plane formation, where one plane would carry bombs and the other a target pod, was abandoned, the new avionics of the Q-5II (Q-5C; suffixed with L when upgraded) and Q-5D (suffixed with N) ensured the capability of the single jet to strike enemies with LGBs. These upgrades became the standard for the Q-5s before their ultimate decommission in the early 2010s.
  
−
One of the latest revisions of the Q-5 series in the PLAAF, the Q-5L will prove deadly to ground targets with its sufficient payload and updates to its avionics and new sensors for ground attacks, as well as new precision bombs.
+
Introduced in [[Update "Fire and Ice"]], the Q-5L has an increased bomb payload and updated avionics such as a new FLIR sensor underneath the nose. However, it is still not any better in air combat than the [[Q-5A]] because it lacks air-to-air missiles. Its deficits in air-to-air combat and fragility are compensated for by access to laser-guided bombs and a targeting pod with thermal optics, all at a much lower battle rating than the [[Jaguar GR.1A]] or [[Mirage 2000D-R1]]. In Ground RB, a well-flown Q-5L can destroy enemy vehicles without much concern for enemy air defenses.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 145: Line 145:
  
 
* 2 x 23 mm Type 23-2K cannons, wing-mounted (120 rpg = 240 total)
 
* 2 x 23 mm Type 23-2K cannons, wing-mounted (120 rpg = 240 total)
 +
* 18 x large calibre countermeasures
 +
 +
The Type 23-2K cannons should be more than familiar to experienced Fantan users. Many of the Q-5L's opponents will be supersonic aircraft, and the substandard muzzle velocity and inconsistent damage per shot can be annoying. Still, they are its only air-to-air weapon.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|250-3 (250 kg)|500-3 (500 kg)|TS250 (260 kg)|LS-500J (570 kg)}}
 
−
{{main|Type 90-1|Type 130-2}}
 
  
−
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance presets:
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
* Without load
 
−
* 28 x Type 90-1 rockets
 
−
* 16 x Type 130-2 rockets
 
−
* 2 x 260 kg TS250 bombs (520 kg total)
 
−
* 2 x 570 kg LS-500J bombs (1,140 kg total)
 
−
* 8 x 250 kg 250-3 bombs (2,000 kg total)
 
−
* 2 x 500 kg 500-3 bombs (1,000 kg total)
 
−
 
−
==== Custom loadout options ====
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
 
! !! width="6%" | 1 !! width="6%" | 2 !! width="6%" | 3 !! width="6%" | 4 !! width="6%" | 5 !! width="6%" | 6 !! width="6%" | 7
−
| rowspan="8" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
+
| rowspan="10" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 250 kg 250-3 bombs
+
! [[250-3 (250 kg)|250 kg 250-3]] bombs
 
| 1 || 1 || || 4 || || 1 || 1
 
| 1 || 1 || || 4 || || 1 || 1
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 500 kg 500-3 bombs
+
! [[250-4 (250 kg)|250 kg 250-4]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || || 4 || || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[500-3 (500 kg)|500 kg 500-3]] bombs
 +
| || 1 || || || || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[500-4 (500 kg)|500 kg 500-4]] bombs
 
| || 1 || || || || 1 ||
 
| || 1 || || || || 1 ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 260 kg TS250 bombs
+
! [[GB250 (260 kg)|260 kg GB250]] bombs
 
| || 1* || || || || 1* ||
 
| || 1* || || || || 1* ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 570 kg LS-500J bombs
+
! [[GB500 (570 kg)|570 kg GB500]] bombs
 
| || 1* || || || || 1* ||
 
| || 1* || || || || 1* ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Type 90-1 rockets
+
! [[Type 90-1]] rockets
 
| || 7 || 7 || || 7 || 7 ||
 
| || 7 || 7 || || 7 || 7 ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Type 130-2 rockets
+
! [[Type 130-2]] rockets
 
| || 4 || 4 || || 4 || 4 ||
 
| || 4 || 4 || || 4 || 4 ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
! K/PSZ-01
+
! K/PZS-01 targeting pod
 
| || || || 1* || || ||
 
| || || || 1* || || ||
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="9" | * The K/PSZ-01 targeting pod must be carried when equipping laser-guided bombs
+
| colspan="9" | * The K/PZS-01 targeting pod must be carried when equipping laser-guided bombs
 +
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
The good news for players of the Q-5L is that the PLAAF have finally ditched the -2 series bombs for the streamlined -3 series low-drag bombs, in addition to the ability to carry greater payloads. Players can take eight 250-3 bombs which, combined with the ballistic computer, could do extensive damage to multiple targets. While the option for a pair of 500-3 bombs on the wings also exists, in most cases the 250 kg bombs are more than enough to take down tanks of the rank. Both payloads are also now finally sufficient to (barely) destroy a base in air RB.
+
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
 
 +
* Without load
 +
* 28 x Type 90-1 rockets
 +
* 16 x Type 130-2 rockets
 +
* 2 x 260 kg GB250 bombs (520 kg total)
 +
* 2 x 570 kg GB500 bombs (1,140 kg total)
 +
* 8 x 250 kg 250-3 bombs (2,000 kg total)
 +
* 8 x 250 kg 250-4 bombs (2,000 kg total)
 +
* 2 x 500 kg 500-3 bombs (1,000 kg total)
 +
* 2 x 500 kg 500-4 bombs (1,000 kg total)
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
−
Thanks to the technological advances of the early 2000s, the Q-5L also receives "smart bombs" in the 250 kg TS250 and 500 kg LS-500J LGBs. Combined with the K/PSZ-01 targeting pod with excellent thermal sights, both of these bombs can make sure the enemies will have a really bad day while you can keep yourself out of trouble by dropping the bombs from higher altitude.
+
The good news for players of the Q-5L is that the PLAAF have finally ditched the -2 series bombs for the streamlined -3 series low-drag bombs, in addition to the ability to carry greater payloads. Players can take eight 250-3 bombs which, combined with the ballistic computer, could do extensive damage to multiple targets. While the option for a pair of 500-3 bombs on the wings also exists, in most cases the 250 kg bombs are more than enough to take down tanks of the rank. Both payloads are also now finally sufficient to (barely) destroy a base in Air RB.
 +
 
 +
Thanks to the technological advances of the early 2000s, the Q-5L also receives "smart bombs" in the 260 kg GB250 and 500 kg GB500 laser-guided bombs. Combined with the K/PZS-01 targeting pod with excellent thermal sights, both of these bombs can make sure the enemies will have a really bad day while you can keep yourself out of trouble by dropping the bombs from higher altitude. The GB250 is unlocked first and contains an underwhelming 91 kg of TNT equivalent. The GB500 is much better with 220 kg of TNT and can quite consistently destroy clustered enemy tanks. Note that the targeting pod blocks the underbelly pylons from being used to carry unguided bombs.
  
 
For players that feel that bombs are not their cup of tea, there are still options for 90 mm and 130 mm rockets at their disposal; while both of them can be guided by ballistic computer as well, do note that they don't have as many salvoes as their NATO/Warsaw Pact counterparts, so aim carefully before firing upon light targets or careless MBTs, taking them out using the high penetration HEAT warheads of the 90-1 or the explosive mass of the 130-2 rockets.
 
For players that feel that bombs are not their cup of tea, there are still options for 90 mm and 130 mm rockets at their disposal; while both of them can be guided by ballistic computer as well, do note that they don't have as many salvoes as their NATO/Warsaw Pact counterparts, so aim carefully before firing upon light targets or careless MBTs, taking them out using the high penetration HEAT warheads of the 90-1 or the explosive mass of the 130-2 rockets.
Line 200: Line 213:
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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 Q-5L shares many similar features to previous Fantans: the same bulky MiG-19/J-6-based airframe with high acceleration. While there are some changes to the avionics and weapons, in most scenarios Q-5L flies like all the other Fantans.
+
The Q-5L shares many similar features to previous Fantans: the same bulky MiG-19/J-6-based airframe with very high acceleration/climb rate. While there are some changes to the avionics and weapons, in most scenarios Q-5L flies like all the other Fantans.
 +
 
 +
==== Matchmaking oddity ====
 +
The Q-5L's lack of air-to-air missiles can possibly be seen as a blessing in disguise, as while it is rank VII, As of the [[Update "Seek & Destroy"]] The Q-5L sits at an extremely low BR of 9.3 in Air-battles and is currently the lowest-BR Rank VII aircraft in the game, giving the opportunity to grind top-tier aircraft at rank VIII without incurring an RP-gain penalty for researching aircraft that are more than one rank above or below the aircraft you are playing with.
  
 
==== Not-so Fighter ====
 
==== Not-so Fighter ====
 
An everlasting flaw of the Q-5s is the overweight airframe due to the limits of materials, this still applies to the Q-5L, though it has some parts of the airframe reinforced with modern materials. In most cases, using the Q-5L as a makeshift fighter is not a great idea as the airframe hinders the overall manoeuvrability; yes, it could still surprise in outturning supersonic jets of its rank or sometimes higher, but do remember that the Q-5 is an attacker and doesn't have the manoeuvrability at high speeds, especially at transonic speeds where the control surfaces lock up and might cause trouble when attempting to level out from a dive. To say the least, if enemy fighters are at lower speeds and lack the acceleration to escape from the Q-5L's pair of WP-6III engines, in most cases a sustained turnfight is enough to take them down with ease, assuming the pilot is used to the subpar ballistic performance of 23-2K cannons onboard. In some cases, even jets with delta wings will fall victim to the Q-5L with its superior manoeuvring energy retention. However, only take on enemies when they are on their own, as a prolonged dogfight means that supersonic enemy backup could quickly arrive and turn the tables.
 
An everlasting flaw of the Q-5s is the overweight airframe due to the limits of materials, this still applies to the Q-5L, though it has some parts of the airframe reinforced with modern materials. In most cases, using the Q-5L as a makeshift fighter is not a great idea as the airframe hinders the overall manoeuvrability; yes, it could still surprise in outturning supersonic jets of its rank or sometimes higher, but do remember that the Q-5 is an attacker and doesn't have the manoeuvrability at high speeds, especially at transonic speeds where the control surfaces lock up and might cause trouble when attempting to level out from a dive. To say the least, if enemy fighters are at lower speeds and lack the acceleration to escape from the Q-5L's pair of WP-6III engines, in most cases a sustained turnfight is enough to take them down with ease, assuming the pilot is used to the subpar ballistic performance of 23-2K cannons onboard. In some cases, even jets with delta wings will fall victim to the Q-5L with its superior manoeuvring energy retention. However, only take on enemies when they are on their own, as a prolonged dogfight means that supersonic enemy backup could quickly arrive and turn the tables.
  
−
Since the airframe has been reinforced, the Q-5L can carry up to 2 tons of bombs in a single run: for the more dedicated role of being an attacker, taking eight 250-3 bombs are barely sufficient to take down a base at its rank: although this also means you have to land and rearm often, this at least gives the Q-5L a chance to earn extra research points. While bombing AI targets is still viable, only do it when the skies are clear from enemies as the Q-5L lacks countermeasures against enemy missiles.
+
Since the airframe has been reinforced, the Q-5L can carry up to 2 tons of bombs in a single run: for the more dedicated role of being an attacker, taking eight 250-3 bombs are barely sufficient to take down a base at its rank: although this also means you have to land and rearm often, this at least gives the Q-5L a chance to earn extra research points. Using the new CCRP function alongside bomb series makes it very easy to bomb bases and turn around early. While bombing AI targets is still viable, only do it when the skies are clear from enemies as the Q-5L does not have AAMs to defend itself and a somewhat meager amount of countermeasures to go along with it.
 +
 
 +
Using the Q-5L as a bomb truck will still leave the inner wing pylons available for carrying rockets. Two pods of 130 mm rockets can be fired at bases for additional points. More creatively, two pods of 90 mm rockets can be carried for use as makeshift flares in a tactic pioneered by contemporary attackers like the [[MiG-23BN (Germany)|MiG-23BN]]. Although 14 rockets is a long way from the MiG-23BN's swarms of 57 mm rockets, they are still better than nothing and can help the Q-5L survive a head-on or two from all-aspect missiles like the [[R-60M]].
  
 
==== Payback with Vengeance ====
 
==== Payback with Vengeance ====
−
While players might not have a good time in aerial combat, the Q-5L brings in a very valuable feature for PLAAF jets: a ballistic computer and guided bombs. To players suffering from enemy jet attackers in ground battles, the Q-5L lets enemies taste their own medicine to some extent. Thanks to the new HUD and sensors onboard, the Q-5L is able to achieve precise strikes with either its bombs or rockets. The new targeting pod onboard provides a thermal vision sight, while the jet itself also has a built-in 1.5x camera for acquisition. For the safest approach against enemy targets, take either the 250/500 kg LGBs (TS250/LS-500J) alongside the targeting pod and climb to at least 6 km before entering the battlefield as this lowers the odds of being pinged by SAM radar and MANPADS of the rank have very little chance of hitting targets at such altitude. Do note that due to the limited view angle of the pod, you might sometimes have to dive in for a better lock, make sure to deploy airbrakes for maximum control.
+
While players might not have a good time in aerial combat, the Q-5L brings in a very valuable feature for PLAAF jets: a full-fledged ballistic computer and guided bombs. To players suffering from enemy jet attackers in ground battles, the Q-5L lets enemies taste their own medicine to some extent. Thanks to the new HUD and sensors onboard, the Q-5L is able to achieve precise strikes with either its bombs or rockets. The new targeting pod onboard provides a thermal vision sight, while the jet itself also has a built-in 1.5x camera for acquisition. The Q-5L's combination of climb-rate, targeting pod, and LGBs gives it an advantage over subsonic attackers at its BR such as the [[Su-25]] and [[A-10A]] who often need to be at lower altitudes closer to the battlefield to do effective damage
 +
 
 +
To safely deal with ground targets, take either of the 250/500 kg LGBs (GB250/GB500) alongside the targeting pod and climb to at least 6 km before entering the battlefield as this lowers the odds of being pinged by SAM radar and MANPADS of the rank have very little chance of hitting targets at such altitude. Do note that due to the limited view angle of the pod, you might sometimes have to dive in for a better lock, make sure to deploy airbrakes for maximum control.
 +
 
 +
Zoom-climbing to high altitudes and tossing laser-guided bombs in "orbital strikes" is a safe and relaxing way to destroy enemy SAMs, who cannot hide from the thermal targeting pod and will often have trouble detecting or hitting the Q-5L at such a high elevation. This anti-SAM capability is unparalleled for the Q-5L's battle rating. The bomb will take a long time to reach the ground however, so keep an eye on the battlefield and switch targets if needed. After SAMs are cleared, the Q-5L is free to start diving closer. Even after the LGBs are spent, the targeting pod can still be used to find and track targets to use unguided ordnance on - newly spawned revenge SAMs for example can be given a rude welcome of HE rockets.
  
 
However, even before any LGBs have been researched, the Q-5L still has a range of unguided ordnance including GP bombs and rocket pods; the ballistic computer onboard can make sure the ordnance lands as close as possible to the designated target. Leave the bombs for (groups of) tanks, and use the rockets against light vehicles or enemy SPAA who aren't aware of your existence.
 
However, even before any LGBs have been researched, the Q-5L still has a range of unguided ordnance including GP bombs and rocket pods; the ballistic computer onboard can make sure the ordnance lands as close as possible to the designated target. Leave the bombs for (groups of) tanks, and use the rockets against light vehicles or enemy SPAA who aren't aware of your existence.
 +
 +
The Q-5L's lack of air-to-air capability is not as relevant in Ground RB, but it is still important to keep an eye out for enemy aircraft because of its high fragility. A crafty opponent can counter the Q-5L by bringing out a jet with powerful missiles. It only takes one [[AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9L]] to send the Q-5L back to the hangar if the pilot is staring through the targeting pod for minutes at a time. Watch the enemy air spawn and pay attention to jets trying to launch missiles at you, A skilled Fantan veteran can still out-dogfight overconfident attackers when not carrying bombs. Friendly TY-90-equipped Chinese helicopters like the [[Z-9W]] are ironically more effective in air combat than the Q-5L, so bait pursuers near them if possible.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 221: Line 245:
 
* Access to 250/500 kg laser-guided bombs
 
* Access to 250/500 kg laser-guided bombs
 
* Sufficient manoeuvrability at around 700 km/h
 
* Sufficient manoeuvrability at around 700 km/h
−
* Great acceleration thanks to the WP-6-IIIA engines
+
* Great acceleration and climb rate thanks to the WP-6-IIIA engines
−
* Access to RWR
+
* Access to very good RWR and countermeasures
 +
* Sits at 9.3 BR in air-battles while being rank VII, making it possible to grind top-tier aircraft at rank VIII without incurring a penalty in RP-gain
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
Line 228: Line 253:
 
* Same bulky airframe as all its predecessors and still locks up at transonic speeds
 
* Same bulky airframe as all its predecessors and still locks up at transonic speeds
 
* The built-in camera only has 1.5x magnification and limited rotation range
 
* The built-in camera only has 1.5x magnification and limited rotation range
−
* Lacks any type of AAM and countermeasures, unlike its technological predecessor [[A-5C]]
+
* Rather lacking countermeasures at only 18 shots
 +
* Lacks any type of AAM, unlike its technological predecessor [[A-5C]]
 
* Type 23-2K cannons needs extra practice against aerial targets
 
* Type 23-2K cannons needs extra practice against aerial targets
 
* Subpar payload to its NATO/Warsaw Pact counterparts
 
* Subpar payload to its NATO/Warsaw Pact counterparts
Line 238: Line 264:
 
As part of the efforts to develop domestic precision munitions against enemies' infrastructure inspired by the USAF's AGM-62 and GBU-12 bombs in the Vietnam War and Gulf War, the PLAAF accelerated the development of LGBs in December 1996 with a plan for the precision munitions where either a single jet would carry both the targeting pod and the bombs for an attack run, or it would be guided by another Q-5/ground-based designators; both Factory 612 and 613 in Shaanxi started their respective development on an LGB and the targeting pod. A few brand-new Q-5Ds were then modified into Q-5E and Q-5F as the carrier and designator respectively, where Q-5F would guide the bombs dropped from Q-5E onto the target. Although both jets passed for certification in the early 2000s, it was deemed that 2 separated jets for a run wasn't viable and the project was ditched.
 
As part of the efforts to develop domestic precision munitions against enemies' infrastructure inspired by the USAF's AGM-62 and GBU-12 bombs in the Vietnam War and Gulf War, the PLAAF accelerated the development of LGBs in December 1996 with a plan for the precision munitions where either a single jet would carry both the targeting pod and the bombs for an attack run, or it would be guided by another Q-5/ground-based designators; both Factory 612 and 613 in Shaanxi started their respective development on an LGB and the targeting pod. A few brand-new Q-5Ds were then modified into Q-5E and Q-5F as the carrier and designator respectively, where Q-5F would guide the bombs dropped from Q-5E onto the target. Although both jets passed for certification in the early 2000s, it was deemed that 2 separated jets for a run wasn't viable and the project was ditched.
  
−
In the mid-1990s, after the previous projects of A-5M and A-5K were canceled by the 1989 Crackdown, the PLAAF requested for a domestic digital upgrade for later batches of Q-5III and Q-5D with new HUD and sensors for precision assaults, as well as as the placeholder before the XAC JH-7 Feibao (NATO: Flounder) entered mass-production. Those jets which were modified from the Q-5III were designated Q-5L with new antennas and stabilized opto-electronic camera in the nose for target acquisition, as well as the capability of carrying the targeting pod on its own for attack runs. With the older avionics replaced with more advanced ones, the new jet entered service in 2005 alongside Q-5Ns that were modified from the Q-5D and served as the economical alternatives to new jets before they were eventually replaced by fighters with multirole features such as J-10A, Feibao, and Flankers in 2017. <ref>PP.77-82, ''The Rising East Wind- The Biography of Q-5 Attacker'' by Lao Bi and Liu Ming, NAAS & Inertial Technology, ISSN 1009-5497, 2014</ref>
+
In the mid-1990s, after the previous projects of A-5M and A-5K were canceled by the 1989 Crackdown, the PLAAF requested for a domestic digital upgrade for later batches of Q-5III and Q-5D with new HUD and sensors for precision assaults, as well as as the placeholder before the XAC JH-7 Feibao (NATO: Flounder) entered mass-production. Those jets which were modified from the Q-5II (Q-5C after new nomenclature was issued to replace the numeral suffix) were designated Q-5L with new antennas and stabilized opto-electronic camera in the nose for target acquisition (while Q-5Ds with these upgrades were named Q-5N) , as well as the capability of carrying the targeting pod on its own for attack runs. With the older avionics replaced with more advanced ones, the new jet entered service in 2005 alongside Q-5Ns that were modified from the Q-5D and served as the economical alternatives to new jets before they were eventually replaced by fighters with multirole features such as J-10A, Feibao, and Flankers in 2017. <ref>PP.77-82, ''The Rising East Wind- The Biography of Q-5 Attacker'' by Lao Bi and Liu Ming, NAAS & Inertial Technology, ISSN 1009-5497, 2014</ref>
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 +
 +
;Skins
 +
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=q_5l Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
;Videos
 
;Videos
Line 265: Line 295:
 
<references />
 
<references />
  
 +
{{AirManufacturer Nanchang}}
 
{{China jet aircraft}}
 
{{China jet aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 16:55, 16 August 2024

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
This page is about the Chinese strike aircraft Q-5L. For other versions, see Q-5 (Family).
Q-5L
q_5l.png
GarageImage Q-5L.jpg
Q-5L
China flag.png China
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.0 9.7 10.7
Class:
Research:260 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:710 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Q-5L (Chinese: 强-5L型强击机; unified NATO Codename: Fantan) was one of the final versions of the Q-5 family developed in the early 2000s, focusing on improving the electronics for ground-attack capabilities. China had been closely observing the USAF's guided munitions since the Vietnam War, during which their AGM-62 Walleyes performed exceptionally well in attacking critical infrastructure to stall attacks from the Viet Cong. Due to political turmoil, the PLAAF failed to acquire foreign targeting pods, so testing of domestic LGBs and guidance pods began in the 1990s with various prototypes. Although the plan for a 2-plane formation, where one plane would carry bombs and the other a target pod, was abandoned, the new avionics of the Q-5II (Q-5C; suffixed with L when upgraded) and Q-5D (suffixed with N) ensured the capability of the single jet to strike enemies with LGBs. These upgrades became the standard for the Q-5s before their ultimate decommission in the early 2010s.

Introduced in Update "Fire and Ice", the Q-5L has an increased bomb payload and updated avionics such as a new FLIR sensor underneath the nose. However, it is still not any better in air combat than the Q-5A because it lacks air-to-air missiles. Its deficits in air-to-air combat and fragility are compensated for by access to laser-guided bombs and a targeting pod with thermal optics, all at a much lower battle rating than the Jaguar GR.1A or Mirage 2000D-R1. In Ground RB, a well-flown Q-5L can destroy enemy vehicles without much concern for enemy air defenses.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Drogue parachute
Reduces braking distance when landing on any runway
Max speed
at 7 000 m1 444 km/h
Turn time25 s
Max altitude16 500 m
Engine2 х Shenyang Liming WP-6A-III
Type
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight13 t

For players who have flown the Q-5 series, Q-5L still retains the same flight performance - although sharing many parts with the J-6A, due to the lack of weight-reduction measures, Q-5s are in fact structurally overweight; while it has better sustained turn to heavier jets such as Phantoms thanks to its engines, do note that the weight issue still haunts the jet. Beware of any targets that have higher manoeuvrability, although your higher speed might save you from subsonic jets, any supersonic jets will have no problem chasing a Q-5L. Another note is that the Q-5L still retains the same control surface lock-up at transonic speeds (>850 km/h and before hitting Mach 1.0), use the airbrakes according to the situation for both regaining control or "snap-shots" on enemy targets.

Characteristics Max speed
(km/h at 7,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 1,434 1,430 16500 25.4 25.7 139.4 129.4 850
Upgraded 1,454 1,444 24.6 25.0 186.5 162.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X ✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1,260 577 N/A 500 450 ~9 ~5
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 540 < 650 < 350 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
Shenyang Liming WP-6A-III 2 6,598 kg 337 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Gross
Weight
Weight (each) Type 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 34m fuel
725 kg Afterburning axial-flow turbojet 7,446 kg 8,215 kg 9,024 kg 9,425 kg 12,457 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
Condition 100% WEP 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 34m fuel MGW
Stationary 2,650 kgf 3,713 kgf 1.00 0.90 0.82 0.79 0.59
Optimal 2,677 kgf
(1,000 km/h) 		3,789 kgf
(1,000 km/h) 		1.02 0.92 0.84 0.80 0.61

Survivability and armour

Flares/Chaff
Aircraft countermeasures to distract IR and radar-guided missiles and also AA radar
Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear577 km/h
  • 10 mm steel plate behind nose cone
  • 4.5 + 8 mm bulletproof glass in front of the cockpit
  • 8 mm steel plate underneath cockpit
  • 16 mm steel armoured pilot's seat
  • 10 + 25 mm steel armoured pilot's headrest
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks behind cockpit and underneath engines in rear fuselage

The Q-5L shares the same protection as its predecessors. Due to the need for ground attack and some protection for the pilot, the cockpit is enclosed by steel plates and comes with bulletproof glass. While this might not be sufficient against any autocannons at the rank, it could at least make sure the pilot will not be knocked out right away by incoming shots or shrapnel. The engines are still unprotected, but the installation of fire suppression systems allows the Q-5L to have greater odds to survive a fire onboard.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 341 → 4 817 Sl icon.png
RB9 053 → 13 054 Sl icon.png
SB10 024 → 14 454 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications225 500 Rp icon.png
352 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 800 Ge icon.png
Crew training200 000 Sl icon.png
Experts710 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 800 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 080 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
80 / 320 / 600 % Sl icon.png
232 / 232 / 232 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
530 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
ns23_belt_pack
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
HF-6
Research:
9 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
340 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Type 250
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods thermal sight.png
K/PZS-01
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
ns23_new_gun
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
530 Ge icon.png
Mods laser guided bomb.png
GB250
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
530 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket large.png
HF-14
Research:
14 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
22 000 Sl icon.png
530 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Type 500
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods laser guided bomb.png
GB500
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Ballistic Computer
CCIP (Guns) CCIP (Rockets) CCIP (Bombs) CCRP (Bombs)
Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png

Offensive armament

Main article: Type 23-2K (23 mm)

The Q-5L is armed with:

  • 2 x 23 mm Type 23-2K cannons, wing-mounted (120 rpg = 240 total)
  • 18 x large calibre countermeasures

The Type 23-2K cannons should be more than familiar to experienced Fantan users. Many of the Q-5L's opponents will be supersonic aircraft, and the substandard muzzle velocity and inconsistent damage per shot can be annoying. Still, they are its only air-to-air weapon.

Suspended armament

The Q-5L can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Hardpoints Q-5L.png
250 kg 250-3 bombs 1 1 4 1 1
250 kg 250-4 bombs 1 1 4 1 1
500 kg 500-3 bombs 1 1
500 kg 500-4 bombs 1 1
260 kg GB250 bombs 1* 1*
570 kg GB500 bombs 1* 1*
Type 90-1 rockets 7 7 7 7
Type 130-2 rockets 4 4 4 4
K/PZS-01 targeting pod 1*
* The K/PZS-01 targeting pod must be carried when equipping laser-guided bombs
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 28 x Type 90-1 rockets
  • 16 x Type 130-2 rockets
  • 2 x 260 kg GB250 bombs (520 kg total)
  • 2 x 570 kg GB500 bombs (1,140 kg total)
  • 8 x 250 kg 250-3 bombs (2,000 kg total)
  • 8 x 250 kg 250-4 bombs (2,000 kg total)
  • 2 x 500 kg 500-3 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 2 x 500 kg 500-4 bombs (1,000 kg total)

The good news for players of the Q-5L is that the PLAAF have finally ditched the -2 series bombs for the streamlined -3 series low-drag bombs, in addition to the ability to carry greater payloads. Players can take eight 250-3 bombs which, combined with the ballistic computer, could do extensive damage to multiple targets. While the option for a pair of 500-3 bombs on the wings also exists, in most cases the 250 kg bombs are more than enough to take down tanks of the rank. Both payloads are also now finally sufficient to (barely) destroy a base in Air RB.

Thanks to the technological advances of the early 2000s, the Q-5L also receives "smart bombs" in the 260 kg GB250 and 500 kg GB500 laser-guided bombs. Combined with the K/PZS-01 targeting pod with excellent thermal sights, both of these bombs can make sure the enemies will have a really bad day while you can keep yourself out of trouble by dropping the bombs from higher altitude. The GB250 is unlocked first and contains an underwhelming 91 kg of TNT equivalent. The GB500 is much better with 220 kg of TNT and can quite consistently destroy clustered enemy tanks. Note that the targeting pod blocks the underbelly pylons from being used to carry unguided bombs.

For players that feel that bombs are not their cup of tea, there are still options for 90 mm and 130 mm rockets at their disposal; while both of them can be guided by ballistic computer as well, do note that they don't have as many salvoes as their NATO/Warsaw Pact counterparts, so aim carefully before firing upon light targets or careless MBTs, taking them out using the high penetration HEAT warheads of the 90-1 or the explosive mass of the 130-2 rockets.

Usage in battles

The Q-5L shares many similar features to previous Fantans: the same bulky MiG-19/J-6-based airframe with very high acceleration/climb rate. While there are some changes to the avionics and weapons, in most scenarios Q-5L flies like all the other Fantans.

Matchmaking oddity

The Q-5L's lack of air-to-air missiles can possibly be seen as a blessing in disguise, as while it is rank VII, As of the Update "Seek & Destroy" The Q-5L sits at an extremely low BR of 9.3 in Air-battles and is currently the lowest-BR Rank VII aircraft in the game, giving the opportunity to grind top-tier aircraft at rank VIII without incurring an RP-gain penalty for researching aircraft that are more than one rank above or below the aircraft you are playing with.

Not-so Fighter

An everlasting flaw of the Q-5s is the overweight airframe due to the limits of materials, this still applies to the Q-5L, though it has some parts of the airframe reinforced with modern materials. In most cases, using the Q-5L as a makeshift fighter is not a great idea as the airframe hinders the overall manoeuvrability; yes, it could still surprise in outturning supersonic jets of its rank or sometimes higher, but do remember that the Q-5 is an attacker and doesn't have the manoeuvrability at high speeds, especially at transonic speeds where the control surfaces lock up and might cause trouble when attempting to level out from a dive. To say the least, if enemy fighters are at lower speeds and lack the acceleration to escape from the Q-5L's pair of WP-6III engines, in most cases a sustained turnfight is enough to take them down with ease, assuming the pilot is used to the subpar ballistic performance of 23-2K cannons onboard. In some cases, even jets with delta wings will fall victim to the Q-5L with its superior manoeuvring energy retention. However, only take on enemies when they are on their own, as a prolonged dogfight means that supersonic enemy backup could quickly arrive and turn the tables.

Since the airframe has been reinforced, the Q-5L can carry up to 2 tons of bombs in a single run: for the more dedicated role of being an attacker, taking eight 250-3 bombs are barely sufficient to take down a base at its rank: although this also means you have to land and rearm often, this at least gives the Q-5L a chance to earn extra research points. Using the new CCRP function alongside bomb series makes it very easy to bomb bases and turn around early. While bombing AI targets is still viable, only do it when the skies are clear from enemies as the Q-5L does not have AAMs to defend itself and a somewhat meager amount of countermeasures to go along with it.

Using the Q-5L as a bomb truck will still leave the inner wing pylons available for carrying rockets. Two pods of 130 mm rockets can be fired at bases for additional points. More creatively, two pods of 90 mm rockets can be carried for use as makeshift flares in a tactic pioneered by contemporary attackers like the MiG-23BN. Although 14 rockets is a long way from the MiG-23BN's swarms of 57 mm rockets, they are still better than nothing and can help the Q-5L survive a head-on or two from all-aspect missiles like the R-60M.

Payback with Vengeance

While players might not have a good time in aerial combat, the Q-5L brings in a very valuable feature for PLAAF jets: a full-fledged ballistic computer and guided bombs. To players suffering from enemy jet attackers in ground battles, the Q-5L lets enemies taste their own medicine to some extent. Thanks to the new HUD and sensors onboard, the Q-5L is able to achieve precise strikes with either its bombs or rockets. The new targeting pod onboard provides a thermal vision sight, while the jet itself also has a built-in 1.5x camera for acquisition. The Q-5L's combination of climb-rate, targeting pod, and LGBs gives it an advantage over subsonic attackers at its BR such as the Su-25 and A-10A who often need to be at lower altitudes closer to the battlefield to do effective damage

To safely deal with ground targets, take either of the 250/500 kg LGBs (GB250/GB500) alongside the targeting pod and climb to at least 6 km before entering the battlefield as this lowers the odds of being pinged by SAM radar and MANPADS of the rank have very little chance of hitting targets at such altitude. Do note that due to the limited view angle of the pod, you might sometimes have to dive in for a better lock, make sure to deploy airbrakes for maximum control.

Zoom-climbing to high altitudes and tossing laser-guided bombs in "orbital strikes" is a safe and relaxing way to destroy enemy SAMs, who cannot hide from the thermal targeting pod and will often have trouble detecting or hitting the Q-5L at such a high elevation. This anti-SAM capability is unparalleled for the Q-5L's battle rating. The bomb will take a long time to reach the ground however, so keep an eye on the battlefield and switch targets if needed. After SAMs are cleared, the Q-5L is free to start diving closer. Even after the LGBs are spent, the targeting pod can still be used to find and track targets to use unguided ordnance on - newly spawned revenge SAMs for example can be given a rude welcome of HE rockets.

However, even before any LGBs have been researched, the Q-5L still has a range of unguided ordnance including GP bombs and rocket pods; the ballistic computer onboard can make sure the ordnance lands as close as possible to the designated target. Leave the bombs for (groups of) tanks, and use the rockets against light vehicles or enemy SPAA who aren't aware of your existence.

The Q-5L's lack of air-to-air capability is not as relevant in Ground RB, but it is still important to keep an eye out for enemy aircraft because of its high fragility. A crafty opponent can counter the Q-5L by bringing out a jet with powerful missiles. It only takes one AIM-9L to send the Q-5L back to the hangar if the pilot is staring through the targeting pod for minutes at a time. Watch the enemy air spawn and pay attention to jets trying to launch missiles at you, A skilled Fantan veteran can still out-dogfight overconfident attackers when not carrying bombs. Friendly TY-90-equipped Chinese helicopters like the Z-9W are ironically more effective in air combat than the Q-5L, so bait pursuers near them if possible.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • New HUD with ballistic computer
  • Built-in TVD camera for target acquisition; alternatively equipped with an advanced targeting pod
  • Access to 250/500 kg laser-guided bombs
  • Sufficient manoeuvrability at around 700 km/h
  • Great acceleration and climb rate thanks to the WP-6-IIIA engines
  • Access to very good RWR and countermeasures
  • Sits at 9.3 BR in air-battles while being rank VII, making it possible to grind top-tier aircraft at rank VIII without incurring a penalty in RP-gain

Cons:

  • Same bulky airframe as all its predecessors and still locks up at transonic speeds
  • The built-in camera only has 1.5x magnification and limited rotation range
  • Rather lacking countermeasures at only 18 shots
  • Lacks any type of AAM, unlike its technological predecessor A-5C
  • Type 23-2K cannons needs extra practice against aerial targets
  • Subpar payload to its NATO/Warsaw Pact counterparts

History

The Q-5L variant of the Q-5 family traces back to two other variants, the Q-5E/F, in the late 1990s.

As part of the efforts to develop domestic precision munitions against enemies' infrastructure inspired by the USAF's AGM-62 and GBU-12 bombs in the Vietnam War and Gulf War, the PLAAF accelerated the development of LGBs in December 1996 with a plan for the precision munitions where either a single jet would carry both the targeting pod and the bombs for an attack run, or it would be guided by another Q-5/ground-based designators; both Factory 612 and 613 in Shaanxi started their respective development on an LGB and the targeting pod. A few brand-new Q-5Ds were then modified into Q-5E and Q-5F as the carrier and designator respectively, where Q-5F would guide the bombs dropped from Q-5E onto the target. Although both jets passed for certification in the early 2000s, it was deemed that 2 separated jets for a run wasn't viable and the project was ditched.

In the mid-1990s, after the previous projects of A-5M and A-5K were canceled by the 1989 Crackdown, the PLAAF requested for a domestic digital upgrade for later batches of Q-5III and Q-5D with new HUD and sensors for precision assaults, as well as as the placeholder before the XAC JH-7 Feibao (NATO: Flounder) entered mass-production. Those jets which were modified from the Q-5II (Q-5C after new nomenclature was issued to replace the numeral suffix) were designated Q-5L with new antennas and stabilized opto-electronic camera in the nose for target acquisition (while Q-5Ds with these upgrades were named Q-5N) , as well as the capability of carrying the targeting pod on its own for attack runs. With the older avionics replaced with more advanced ones, the new jet entered service in 2005 alongside Q-5Ns that were modified from the Q-5D and served as the economical alternatives to new jets before they were eventually replaced by fighters with multirole features such as J-10A, Feibao, and Flankers in 2017. [1]

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #329 - Metal Beasts section at 00:26 discusses the Q-5L.

See also

Q-5 (NATO: Fantan) Family
  • Q-5 early- LRIP of Q-5
  • Q-5A- Base model of Q-5s
  • A-5C- Export model of Q-5 and the technological predecessor of Q-5L

External links

References

  1. ↑ PP.77-82, The Rising East Wind- The Biography of Q-5 Attacker by Lao Bi and Liu Ming, NAAS & Inertial Technology, ISSN 1009-5497, 2014


Nanchang Aircraft Manufacturing Corporation 南昌飞机制造公司
Strike aircraft  Q-5 early · Q-5A · Q-5L
  A-5C

China jet aircraft
Fighters  J-2 · J-4 · J-6A · J-7II · J-7D · J-7E · J-8B · J-8F · J-10A · J-11 · J-11A
Strike aircraft  Q-5 early · Q-5A · Q-5L · JH-7A
Bombers  H-5
France  ␗Mirage 2000-5Ei
USA  ␗F-84G-21-RE · ␗F-84G-31-RE · ␗F-86F-30 · ␗F-86F-40 · ␗F-100A · ␗F-100F · ␗F-104A · ␗F-104G · ␗F-5A · ␗F-5E · ␗F-16A MLU
USSR  ␗MiG-9 · ␗MiG-9 (l)
North Korea  Shenyang F-5
Pakistan  A-5C · JF-17

Retrieved from "https://wiki.warthunder.com/index.php?title=Q-5L&oldid=191035"