Difference between revisions of "Q-5A"

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{{Specs-Card|code=q_5a}}
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{{About
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| about = Chinese strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other versions
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| link = Q-5 (Family)
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}}
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{{Specs-Card
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|code=q_5a
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|Q-5A WebsiteImage 1.jpg}}
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}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (known as '''Q-5I''' pre-1987, '''强-5A/强-5I型强击机'''; unified NATO codename: Fantan) was the main production variant of Q-5 series attacker in the first half of 1980s. During the production of the [[Q-5 early]], PLAAF suggested for improvements to Q-5 especially in terms of its combat radius in 1976; Factory 320 (NAMC) soon concretized the required improvements including new internal fuel tanks, new engines, relocated drag chute and revised lifesaving equipment. Test flights were done during 1979 to 1980 with overall improved performance and was certified in 1983; however, engineers also called for another variant that introduced electronic improvements with new RWR and countermeasures, as well as new optical sights, the new jet, known as '''Q-5IA''' ('''Q-5B''' post-1987) was set as the standards of future productions of Q-5 before the '''Q-5II''' ('''Q-5C''' post-1987) overtook the production by 1986.
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{{Break}}
 
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Chinese jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "New Power"]].
 
  
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The Q-5A is externally very similar to the [[Q-5 early]] aside from the pure white paint scheme. This variant has several new features: it now has access to flares and a radar warning receiver and can use 130 mm rockets with impressive explosive power for ground attack. The flight performance has also been improved noticeably courtesy of the more powerful engines. The Q-5A's battle rating is the same as the [[J-6A]] and its air-to-air armament is disappointing compared to its peers, but it still flies well and the new self defense capabilities make it a crafty opponent.
+
Introduced in [[Update "New Power"]], Q-5A is externally very similar to the [[Q-5 early]] aside from the pure white paint scheme. This variant has several new features: it now has flares, a radar warning receiver, a ballistic computer, and a new pair of hardpoints for mounting 130 mm high-explosive rockets. The flight performance has also been improved noticeably, courtesy of the more powerful engines. The Q-5A is an all-round improvement with enhanced self-defense in air combat and much higher efficacy in ground attack; with the Q-5IA upgrades, it further enhance the survivability of Q-5A thanks to the countermeasures and RWR onboard.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
−
The Q-5A weighs negligibly more when empty than the Q-5 early, which is more than compensated by the fact that its engines produce about 15% more thrust. Its top speed is now practically the same as or in some cases slightly better than the J-6A under 10,000 meters. The internal bomb bay has been replaced with a fuel tank and the maximum fuel capacity is now 70% larger.
+
The Q-5A weighs negligibly more when empty than the Q-5 early, which is more than compensated by the fact that its engines produce about 15% more thrust. Its top speed is now practically the same as or in some cases slightly better than the J-6A under 10,000 metres. The internal bomb bay has been replaced with a fuel tank and the maximum fuel capacity is now 70% larger.
  
−
It still compresses more in dives and has somewhat worse low speed handling than the J-6A, but at reasonable fuel settings the Q-5A comes very close to the J-6A, with good climb, acceleration, and energy retention. The turn rate and maneuvering energy retention are quite balanced, which can be used to gain the upper hand in extended dogfights.
+
It still compresses more in dives and has somewhat worse low speed handling than the J-6A, but at reasonable fuel settings the Q-5A comes very close to the J-6A in terms of climb, acceleration, and energy retention. The control compression can be considered its primary weakness: watch the indicated airspeed carefully and remember to throttle back or use airbrakes as needed to ensure that the Q-5A remains controllable. The turn rate and manoeuvring energy retention are quite balanced at high subsonic speeds, which can be used to gain the upper hand in extended dogfights.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || ___ || ___ || ___ || ~__ || ~__
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| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 500 || 450 || ~9 || ~5
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < ___ || < ___ || < ___ || N/A
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| < 540 || < 650 || < 350 || N/A
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|-
 +
|}
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 +
==== Engine performance ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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|-
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! colspan="3" | Engine
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! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
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|-
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! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
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! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
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|-
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| colspan="2" | Shenyang Liming WP-6A-III || 2
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| colspan="2" | 6,593 kg || colspan="3" | 337 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
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|-
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! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
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! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br />Weight
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|-
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! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
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! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 34m fuel
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|-
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| 725 kg || colspan="2" | Afterburning axial-flow turbojet
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| 7,424 kg || 8,256 kg || 9,087 kg || 9,420 kg || 12,500 kg
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|-
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! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
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! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (WEP)
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|-
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! Condition || 100% || WEP
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! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 34m fuel || MTOW
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|-
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| ''Stationary'' || 2,650 kgf || 3,709 kgf
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| 1.00 || 0.90 || 0.82 || 0.79 || 0.59
 +
|-
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| ''Optimal'' || 2,677 kgf<br />(1,000 km/h) || 3,786 kgf<br />(1,000 km/h)
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| 1.02 || 0.92 || 0.83 || 0.80 || 0.61
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
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{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 +
 
* 10 mm steel plate behind nose cone
 
* 10 mm steel plate behind nose cone
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* 4.5 + 8 mm bulletproof glass in cockpit front
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* 4.5 + 8 mm bulletproof glass in front of the cockpit
 
* 8 mm steel plate underneath cockpit
 
* 8 mm steel plate underneath cockpit
 
* 16 mm steel armoured pilot's seat
 
* 16 mm steel armoured pilot's seat
 
* 10 + 25 mm steel armoured pilot's headrest
 
* 10 + 25 mm steel armoured pilot's headrest
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* Self-sealing fuel tanks behind cockpit and in lower fuselage
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* Self-sealing fuel tanks behind cockpit and underneath engines in rear fuselage
 +
 
 +
The Q-5 protects the pilot from small arms fire, but this level of protection does not amount to much in the jet era. Enemy cannons and missiles will make short work of the Q-5 so avoiding incoming fire is paramount. The twin engines are likely to be damaged by attacks from the rear, but having two of them offers some extra survivability since it is capable of flying back to base on one engine. The elevators also have separate damage models and the aircraft remains somewhat controllable if one of them is blown off.
  
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The Q-5 protects the pilot from small arms fire, but at a battle rating of 10.0 and up, this level of protection does not amount to much. Enemy cannons and missiles will make short work of the Q-5 so avoiding incoming fire is paramount. The twin engines are likely to be damaged by attacks from the rear, but having two of them offers some extra survivability since it is capable of flying back to base on one engine. The elevators also have separate damage models and the aircraft remains somewhat controllable if one of them is blown off.
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=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
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{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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|-
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! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
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|-
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! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! EEGS
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|-
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| {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Tick}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}}
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|-
 +
|}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
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{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
{{main|Type 23-2K (23 mm)}}
 
{{main|Type 23-2K (23 mm)}}
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* 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
  
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As on the Q-5 early, the Q-5A is equipped with 23 mm cannons identical to the [[NR-23 (23 mm)|NR-23]] cannons found on earlier Soviet jets like the [[J-4]]/[[MiG-17]]. These are significantly less powerful than the contemporary J-6A's [[Type 30-1 (30 mm)|Type 30]]/[[NR-30 (30 mm)|NR-30]] cannons due to their lower explosive content, rate of fire, kinetic damage, and muzzle velocity. They typically require a solid burst of hits to destroy a target instead of dismembering enemy fighters with a brief touch. On the bright side, they have more ammunition with about 8 seconds of firing time. Lead generously and try to get close to your opponent before unloading. Using them against ground targets should not be a priority since their penetration is no higher than a heavy machine gun and the ammo supply is not plentiful, all things considered.
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As on the Q-5 early, the Q-5A is equipped with rapid-firing 23 mm cannons. While they are not particularly powerful on an shot-by-shot basis, the high rate of fire ensures that a brief burst of successful hits should be enough to put down most opponents.
  
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The default belt has an even mix of FI-T and AP-I rounds and should be satisfactory from the start. Gun convergence is not a major issue since the cannons are mounted close to the centerline of the aircraft in the wing roots, and is up to personal preference.
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The Q-5A's ballistic computer grants CCIP for the cannons, which makes them slightly more practical for use against lightly armoured ground targets such as SPAAs and IFVs.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 +
{{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|Type 250-2 (250 kg)|Type 90-1|Type 130-2}}
 
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
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! !! width="9%" | 1 !! width="9%" | 2 !! width="9%" | 3 !! width="9%" | 4 !! width="9%" | 5
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| rowspan="6" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
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|-
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! [[Type 250-2 (250 kg)|250 kg Type 250-2]] bombs
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| || || 4 || ||
 +
|-
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! [[250-3 (250 kg)|250 kg 250-3]] bombs
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| || || 4 || ||
 +
|-
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! [[250-4 (250 kg)|250 kg 250-4]] bombs
 +
| || || 4 || ||
 +
|-
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! [[Type 90-1]] rockets
 +
| || 7 || || 7 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[Type 130-2]] rockets
 +
| 4 || || || || 4
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
  
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
 
* 4 x 250 kg Type 250-2 bombs (1,000 kg total)
 
* 4 x 250 kg Type 250-2 bombs (1,000 kg total)
 +
* 4 x 250 kg 250-3 bombs (1,000 kg total)
 +
* 4 x 250 kg 250-4 bombs (1,000 kg total)
 
* 14 x Type 90-1 rockets
 
* 14 x Type 90-1 rockets
−
* 14 x Type 90-1 rockets + 4 x 250 kg Type 250-2 bombs (1,000 kg total)
 
 
* 8 x Type 130-2 rockets
 
* 8 x Type 130-2 rockets
−
* 8 x Type 130-2 rockets + 4 x 250 kg Type 250-2 bombs (1,000 kg total)
+
{{Navigation-End}}
  
−
The Q-5A has access to all of the loadouts of the Q-5 early, the difference being that it can equip two rocket pods with four 130 mm Type 130-2 rockets each in lieu of the 90 mm Type 90-1 rockets. The 130 mm rockets have the same ballistics as the 90 mm rockets, traveling at 610 m/s, but instead of HEAT warheads they pack HE warheads with 16.56 kg of TNT equivalent each. They can penetrate 70 mm of armor through explosive power alone and come close to the infamous S-13DF rockets (19.15 kg TNT equivalent) used by the [[Mi-28N]] and [[Ka-52]]. A direct hit to the roof or side armor of a MBT will cause catastrophic or even fatal damage. Lightly armored targets should be annihilated if hit anywhere due to hull break and even near misses can be lethal. But as with the 90 mm rockets, the capacity is very limited, in this case to four salvos.
+
The Q-5A has access to all of the loadouts of the Q-5 early, the difference being that it can equip two rocket pods with four 130 mm Type 130-2 rockets in addition to the 90 mm Type 90-1 rockets. The 130 mm rockets pack HE warheads with 7.68 kg of TNT equivalent each, roughly comparable to the US [[Zuni Mk32 Mod 0 ATAP|Zuni]] rocket. A direct hit to the turret and hull roof armour of a MBT can cause catastrophic or fatal damage through overpressure. Side aspect shots can also work provided the target does not have thick side armour. Lightly armoured targets should be annihilated if hit anywhere. The capacity of 8 is very limited but the ballistic computer greatly helps in aiming them.
  
−
The Type 90-1 rockets are better than the anemic S-5 rockets used by typical Soviet jets and can penetrate 280 mm of armour with 1.03 kg of TNT equivalent, but typically several hits are required to destroy an armored target due to the lower post-penetration effect. The total of seven salvos is significantly greater than the Type 130-2 rockets but still unimpressive for its rank.
+
The Type 90-1 rockets are better than the anaemic S-5 rockets used by typical Soviet jets and can penetrate 280 mm of armour with 1.03 kg of TNT equivalent, but typically several hits are required to destroy an armoured target due to the lower post-penetration effect.
  
−
The four 250 kg bombs should be familiar to anyone who has used the Q-5 early, but the Q-5A does not have an internal bomb bay and all four are mounted on fuselage hardpoints instead. This causes more drag but the pilot no longer has to worry about manually opening the bomb bay. These are small for the Q-5's battle rating and four of them is not enough to destroy a single base. In mixed battles, they require more precision against ground targets than the typical 1000 lb/500 kg bombs used for CAS.  
+
The four 250 kg bombs should be familiar to anyone who has used the Q-5 early, but the Q-5A does not have an internal bomb bay and all four are mounted on fuselage hardpoints instead. This causes more drag but the pilot no longer has to worry about manually opening the bomb bay. It also has access to low-drag Type 250-3 bombs, which should be taken preferentially because they have more explosive content than the Type 250-2. These are still small for the Q-5's battle rating and four of them is not enough to destroy a single base. In mixed battles, they require more precision against ground targets than the typical 1,000 lb/500 kg bombs used for CAS. The Q-5A's ballistic computer offers CCIP, but not CCRP functionality for these bombs.
  
 
== 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).'' -->
  
−
'''Air RB:'''
+
Although it was historically an attack aircraft, the Q-5 is not a first-rate ground attacker in Air RB since its ordnance is rather anaemic compared to other jets at its battle rating. It cannot destroy a base with its four 250 kg bombs, but this is still an option for supplementary research points when grinding: stay at low altitude, loop around to a side base, drop the bombs, then head towards the center of the map to join the furball. Going after AI ground vehicles with the bombs and rockets can also be successful provided that other jets do not arrive quickly to crash the party.
  
−
The usage of the Q-5A does not differ drastically from the Q-5 early in Air RB. The better flight performance is a plus, but the higher battle rating means that it does not face easier opposition than the [[J-6A]] and its limited armament becomes a greater liability. Those not in the mood for a challenge may find other Chinese fighters more competitive.
+
The Q-5A can outrun many of the enemy fighters it faces, but active combat at transonic or supersonic speeds should be avoided because of the control compression. The best way to reverse enemies is to pull them into a climbing spiral or other vertical manoeuvres; the Q-5 has enough of the MiG-19's climb and thrust-to-weight characteristics to energy fight in a similar manner, the declining airspeed relaxes the control compression, and a stalled-out target is easier to gun down. It should be obvious that actual MiG-19 models such as the [[MiG-19S (Germany)|German MiG-19S]] are better than the Q-5A in almost every regard when it comes to air-to-air combat. Be very careful about engaging them.
  
−
Although it was historically an attack aircraft, the Q-5 is not a first-rate ground attacker in Air RB since its ordnance is rather anemic compared to other jets at its battle rating. It cannot destroy a base with its four 250 kg bombs, but this is still an option for supplementary research points when grinding: stay at low altitude, loop around to a side base, drop the bombs, then head towards the center of the map to join the furball. Going after AI ground vehicles with the bombs and rockets can also be successful provided that other jets do not arrive quickly to crash the party.
+
Take advantage of the flares and RWR. Flares are intended to spoof infrared guided missiles. For best results, deploy them in bursts while cutting the afterburner and making evasive manoeuvres, which will hopefully cause the missile to chase a flare instead. Only 18 flares can be carried in total, which is really not much compared to the [[A-4E Early|A-4E]]'s 60 for example. Definitely use them against dangerous missiles that cannot be evaded easily such as the [[R-60]] or [[AIM-9G]], as they will buy time for reversing the target and can save the Q-5A during energy-draining vertical combat. Missiles with limited manoeuvrability or track rates can be dodged with good manoeuvring. The Q-5A can load chaff countermeasures in addition to flares, but chaff is less needed since only primitive radar-guided missiles are present in its BR range.
  
−
The Q-5A is less likely to fight subsonic aircraft than the Q-5 early, so it must utilize its acceleration and climb more than its raw speed. Stay at lower altitudes and try to pounce on distracted opponents. At high altitudes, the Q-5A has a more significant speed deficit compared to other aircraft, is more vulnerable to missiles, and will suffer from compression if forced into long dives. If an enemy is catching up to you or is getting too close for comfort, pull them into a climbing spiral or other vertical maneuvers; the Q-5 has enough of the MiG-19's climb and thrust-to-weight to energy fight in a similar manner and a stalled-out target is easier to gun down. Note that while bulky aircraft like Phantoms can be outmaneuvered and out-accelerated fairly easily, aircraft with delta wings like the [[Mirage IIIC]], [[J35D]], and MiG-21s have good instantaneous turn rates and may be able to outturn the Q-5A in the short term. Watch where their noses are pointing and avoid presenting an easy target while they still have significant airspeed. It should be obvious that actual MiG-19 models such as the [[MiG-19S (Germany)|German MiG-19S]] are better than the Q-5A in almost every regard when it comes to air-to-air combat. Be very careful about engaging them.
+
The RWR will not stop any missiles by itself, but knowing if there are pursuers or radar locks behind you reduces the chance of being surprised by a missile or cannon burst out of nowhere. The RWR is not a replacement for situational awareness, it is still the pilot's duty to look for approaching enemies and missile launches whenever possible.
−
 
 
−
Take advantage of the flares and RWR. Flares are intended to spoof infrared guided missiles. For best results, deploy them in bursts while cutting the afterburner and making evasive maneuvers, which will hopefully cause the missile to chase a flare instead. Only 18 flares can be carried in total, which is not much compared to the [[F-4E]]'s 90, so dropping flares should not be the primary strategy of missile evasion. Definitely use them against very dangerous missiles that cannot be evaded easily, as they will buy time for reversing the target. Missiles with limited maneuverability or track rates can be dodged with good maneuvering. Do not waste them on radar-guided missiles, which can be identified either by a radar lock warning from the RWR or from being fired in the front aspect.
 
−
 
 
−
The RWR will not stop any missiles by itself, but knowing if there are pursuers or radar locks behind you reduces the chance of being surprised by a missile or cannon burst out of nowhere. Remember that not every enemy aircraft has a radar or will have it turned on and that infrared guided missiles do not require radar guidance at all. The RWR is not a replacement for situational awareness, it is still the pilot's duty to look for approaching enemies and missile launches whenever possible.
 
  
  
 
'''Ground RB'''
 
'''Ground RB'''
  
−
As of [[Update "New Power"]], the Q-5A's battle rating of 10.0 is greater than any Chinese ground vehicle. Using it in Ground RB will thus uptier the ground units, the most advanced of which is the 9.7 [[ZTZ96A]]. Players who would rater not face 10.7 ground vehicles more often should considering using the [[Q-5 early]] or [[F-100A (China)|F-100A]] instead for CAS.
+
Like the Q-5 early, the Q-5A is a light ground attacker whose rockets are limited in capacity and whose bombs are limited in power. The Q-5A has a ballistic computer for all ordnance onboard, so players can finally precisely target enemies with guns, bombs, and rockets. It's generally best to use up the rockets and bombs in several passes, then switch to providing air cover. If there are no enemy aircraft or helicopters around, the Q-5A can quickly zoom back to the airfield and restock its weapons for another run.
−
 
 
−
Like the Q-5 early, the Q-5A is a light ground attacker whose rockets are limited in capacity and whose bombs are limited in power. For those who are not confident with their aim, it's best to use up the rockets and bombs in a few passes, then switch to providing air cover. It can out-accelerate and outmanoeuvre most contemporary fighters and the Ground RB environment makes advantages in top speed or radar-guided missiles less significant.
 
  
−
The Q-5A has a choice between 90 mm and 130 mm rockets. The former have more almost twice the ammunition and the latter are significantly more lethal, so choosing one or the other largely depends on one's aim. The 130 mm rockets are generally better for attacking MBTs since the lesser damage of the 90 mm rockets tends to negate their capacity advantage.
+
The Q-5A can carry 90 mm and 130 mm rockets simultaneously. The 130 mm rockets are generally the more effective of the two types because they can easily destroy light targets, even with near-misses, and have the potential to destroy even MBTs with a direct hit through overpressure. However they have a very limited capacity and unlucky hits may only do superficial damage to armoured targets due to their lack of a HEAT warhead. The ballistic computer makes it possible to use them as makeshift standoff weapons against light targets: a good salvo can knock them out from several kilometres away. The 90 mm rockets require direct hits to do any real damage, but also do not have enough capacity to be fired in huge swarms as might be done with the American [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets. They can be used as backups for when the 130 mm rockets are spent or in close range strafing runs as a stronger alternative to cannons.
  
−
The 250 kg bombs, which are dropped individually, do not have much explosive content and need to be delivered with decent accuracy in order to score kills. This can be a tall order for a supersonic jet aircraft like the Q-5, especially against moving targets, so consider dropping several (or even all of them) at once. Carpet bombing a capture point or lane can lead to decent results. A relatively short fuse can be used due to the bombs' limited blast radius.
+
The 250 kg Type 250-3 bombs are the Q-5A's best bet against armoured targets, but they do not have much explosive content and need to be delivered with decent accuracy in order to score kills. In Q-5A's case, the addition of the belly fuel tank located in the previous bomb bay caused designers to move the pair of internal bomb racks onto the belly as well; which does help Q-5A for better accuracy with a tighter radius. The CCIP functionality greatly helps in placing them accurately but it does not guarantee pinpoint drops. As with traditional bombing, the most consistent results are obtained by approaching at steeper angles.
  
−
The Q-5A's radar warning receiver can help detect SPAA vehicles, but be sure to visually inspect the battlefield as well. Some players turn off their radars for greater stealth and some SPAAs lack radars entirely. The majority of SAMs are manually guided by their operators and thus flares will not work against them; the main exceptions are the Japanese [[Type 93]] and the Italian [[SIDAM 25 (Mistral)]]. Do not head-on or stall out in full view of an SPAA, and even when the coast appears to be clear, avoid flying in straight lines.
+
Although the Q-5A has the tools to unleash a fair amount of pain on enemy tanks, its lack of long-range guided weapons like the [[AGM-12B Bullpup]] makes it vulnerable to radar-guided SPAA guns, or even IFVs with optical tracking. Use the RWR, keep a low profile, and pay attention to the battlefield to determine if it is safe to get close. If not, plan approaches carefully and use the rockets to clear out threats from safer distances. Once enemy defenses are suppressed, the bombs can be used at leisure.
−
 
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! Survivability
 
−
! colspan="3" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 23 mm
 
−
|
 
−
| Q-5B RWR
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
| New boosters
 
−
|
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
|
 
−
| Type 250
 
−
| Q-5B RWR/Flares
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
| New 23 mm cannons
 
−
|
 
−
| HF-14
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| G-suit
 
−
| Engine
 
−
| Cover
 
−
|
 
−
| HF-6
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 193: Line 231:
 
* First aircraft in the Chinese tech tree to have flares
 
* First aircraft in the Chinese tech tree to have flares
 
* Has a radar warning receiver
 
* Has a radar warning receiver
−
* 130 mm rockets pack quite a punch against ground targets
+
* 130 mm rockets pack quite a punch against ground targets when detonating on target
 +
* Ballistic computer for gun, rockets, and bombs
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Gun-fighter only, still no missiles despite high rank placement
+
* Gun-fighter only, still no missiles
 
* Average roll rate
 
* Average roll rate
 
* Tail locks up at high speeds
 
* Tail locks up at high speeds
−
* Easily beaten in manoeuvrability by aircraft such as the Mirage, Draken and MiG-19
+
* Easily beaten in manoeuvrability by subsonic aircraft
−
* The 23 mm cannons sometimes fall short in damage, much less lethal than J-6A's 30 mm cannons
+
* The 23 mm cannons sometimes fall short in damage, less lethal than J-6A's 30 mm cannons
 
* Ordnance capacity is still below average for its rank
 
* Ordnance capacity is still below average for its rank
 +
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Line 217: Line 257:
 
=== Operational history ===
 
=== Operational history ===
 
[[File:Q5 parked.png|thumb|300x300px|Nanchang Q-5 in reflective white paint scheme.]]
 
[[File:Q5 parked.png|thumb|300x300px|Nanchang Q-5 in reflective white paint scheme.]]
−
The first Q-5As entered in the early 1970s in limited quantities, and was unique as the first Chinese ground-attack aircraft designed to carry nuclear weapons. The Q-5A was designed to carry a single nuclear bomb semi-recessed in the fuselage, and was indeed used in this manner in a nuclear bomb test in January of 1972.<ref name=":2">Staff Writer. (2020)</ref>The Q-5As used in this role are easily identifiable because of the bright-white anti-flash paint scheme that protected the aircraft from nuclear flash.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" />
+
The first Q-5As entered in the early 1970s in limited quantities, followed by mass-scale production. Over the course of a decade, almost 600 Q-5A airframes were built. As well, a small number of Q-5As were modified to carry a single nuclear bomb semi-recessed in the fuselage; one of the modified aircraft was indeed used in this manner in a nuclear bomb test in January of 1972.<ref name=":2">Staff Writer. (2020)</ref> The Q-5As used in this role are easily identifiable because of the bright-white anti-flash paint scheme that protected the aircraft from nuclear flash.<ref name=":1" /><ref name=":2" />
  
−
The Q-5A saw little combat action due to its relatively short time in service before being superseded by later variants of the aircraft. However, it remained the backbone of China's tactical nuclear strike force for several years. Though it has since been superseded in the nuclear strike role by the JH-7 Flying Leopard, late variants of the Q-5 remain in service with the Myanmar Air Force.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />
+
The Q-5A saw little combat action due to its relatively short time in service before being superseded by later variants of the aircraft. However, modified Q-5As remained the backbone of China's tactical nuclear strike force for several years. Though it has since been superseded in the nuclear and conventional strike role by the JH-7 Flying Leopard, late variants of the Q-5 remain in service with the Myanmar Air Force.<ref name=":0" /><ref name=":1" />
  
 
== 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=q_5a Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|YMhIrdAFQ9g|'''Are You ready for pain? Q-5A - China - Review!''' - ''Jengar''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 229: Line 275:
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
The Q-5 Fantan family
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
+
* [[Q-5 early]] - LRIP and first series of Q-5
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* [[A-5C]] - Export variants to Pakistan with western weaponries
 +
* [[Q-5L]] - LGB platform based on the Q-5C/Q-5II
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 238: Line 285:
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 +
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/504161-q-5a/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
  
 
=== References ===
 
=== References ===
 +
 +
;Citations
 
<references />
 
<references />
  
−
=== Works Cited ===
+
;Bibliography
 +
 
 
* Peck, M. (2019, October 18). Meet the Nanchang Q-5: China's Nuclear Bomber. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from <nowiki>https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/meet-nanchang-q-5-chinas-nuclear-bomber-89681</nowiki>
 
* Peck, M. (2019, October 18). Meet the Nanchang Q-5: China's Nuclear Bomber. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from <nowiki>https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/meet-nanchang-q-5-chinas-nuclear-bomber-89681</nowiki>
 
* Eastern Order of Battle. (n.d.). Nanchang Q-5 Fantan attack aircraft at the People's Liberation Army Air Force Part One. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from <nowiki>http://www.easternorbat.com/html/nanchang_q-5_fantan_01_eng.html</nowiki>
 
* Eastern Order of Battle. (n.d.). Nanchang Q-5 Fantan attack aircraft at the People's Liberation Army Air Force Part One. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from <nowiki>http://www.easternorbat.com/html/nanchang_q-5_fantan_01_eng.html</nowiki>
 
* Staff Writer. (2020, April 27). Nanchang Q-5 (Fantan) Ground Attack / Close-Air Support (CAS) Aircraft. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from <nowiki>https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=568</nowiki>
 
* Staff Writer. (2020, April 27). Nanchang Q-5 (Fantan) Ground Attack / Close-Air Support (CAS) Aircraft. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from <nowiki>https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=568</nowiki>
  
 +
{{AirManufacturer Nanchang}}
 
{{China jet aircraft}}
 
{{China jet aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 08:07, 23 August 2024

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the Chinese strike aircraft Q-5A. For other versions, see Q-5 (Family).
Q-5A
q_5a.png
GarageImage Q-5A.jpg
Q-5A WebsiteImage 1.jpg
Q-5A
China flag.png China
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
10.0 9.7 10.3
Class:
Research:160 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:450 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Q-5A (known as Q-5I pre-1987, 强-5A/强-5I型强击机; unified NATO codename: Fantan) was the main production variant of Q-5 series attacker in the first half of 1980s. During the production of the Q-5 early, PLAAF suggested for improvements to Q-5 especially in terms of its combat radius in 1976; Factory 320 (NAMC) soon concretized the required improvements including new internal fuel tanks, new engines, relocated drag chute and revised lifesaving equipment. Test flights were done during 1979 to 1980 with overall improved performance and was certified in 1983; however, engineers also called for another variant that introduced electronic improvements with new RWR and countermeasures, as well as new optical sights, the new jet, known as Q-5IA (Q-5B post-1987) was set as the standards of future productions of Q-5 before the Q-5II (Q-5C post-1987) overtook the production by 1986.

Introduced in Update "New Power", Q-5A is externally very similar to the Q-5 early aside from the pure white paint scheme. This variant has several new features: it now has flares, a radar warning receiver, a ballistic computer, and a new pair of hardpoints for mounting 130 mm high-explosive rockets. The flight performance has also been improved noticeably, courtesy of the more powerful engines. The Q-5A is an all-round improvement with enhanced self-defense in air combat and much higher efficacy in ground attack; with the Q-5IA upgrades, it further enhance the survivability of Q-5A thanks to the countermeasures and RWR onboard.

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

The Q-5A weighs negligibly more when empty than the Q-5 early, which is more than compensated by the fact that its engines produce about 15% more thrust. Its top speed is now practically the same as or in some cases slightly better than the J-6A under 10,000 metres. The internal bomb bay has been replaced with a fuel tank and the maximum fuel capacity is now 70% larger.

It still compresses more in dives and has somewhat worse low speed handling than the J-6A, but at reasonable fuel settings the Q-5A comes very close to the J-6A in terms of climb, acceleration, and energy retention. The control compression can be considered its primary weakness: watch the indicated airspeed carefully and remember to throttle back or use airbrakes as needed to ensure that the Q-5A remains controllable. The turn rate and manoeuvring energy retention are quite balanced at high subsonic speeds, which can be used to gain the upper hand in extended dogfights.

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 1,450 1,442 24.5 24.9 187.0 161.1

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 + -
1260 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 6,593 kg 337 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 10m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 34m fuel
725 kg Afterburning axial-flow turbojet 7,424 kg 8,256 kg 9,087 kg 9,420 kg 12,500 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 MTOW
Stationary 2,650 kgf 3,709 kgf 1.00 0.90 0.82 0.79 0.59
Optimal 2,677 kgf
(1,000 km/h) 		3,786 kgf
(1,000 km/h) 		1.02 0.92 0.83 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
Structural1 260 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-5 protects the pilot from small arms fire, but this level of protection does not amount to much in the jet era. Enemy cannons and missiles will make short work of the Q-5 so avoiding incoming fire is paramount. The twin engines are likely to be damaged by attacks from the rear, but having two of them offers some extra survivability since it is capable of flying back to base on one engine. The elevators also have separate damage models and the aircraft remains somewhat controllable if one of them is blown off.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB2 930 → 4 225 Sl icon.png
RB8 095 → 11 672 Sl icon.png
SB9 282 → 13 384 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications143 400 Rp icon.png
227 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 400 Ge icon.png
Crew training130 000 Sl icon.png
Experts450 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces890 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
80 / 320 / 600 % Sl icon.png
214 / 214 / 214 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
9 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
9 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
9 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
ns23_belt_pack
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Type 250
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
450 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
ns23_new_gun
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon block rocket large.png
HF-14
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
490 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
9 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
HF-6
Research:
9 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png

Armaments

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

Offensive armament

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

The Q-5A is armed with:

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

As on the Q-5 early, the Q-5A is equipped with rapid-firing 23 mm cannons. While they are not particularly powerful on an shot-by-shot basis, the high rate of fire ensures that a brief burst of successful hits should be enough to put down most opponents.

The Q-5A's ballistic computer grants CCIP for the cannons, which makes them slightly more practical for use against lightly armoured ground targets such as SPAAs and IFVs.

Suspended armament

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

1 2 3 4 5
Hardpoints Q-5A.png
250 kg Type 250-2 bombs 4
250 kg 250-3 bombs 4
250 kg 250-4 bombs 4
Type 90-1 rockets 7 7
Type 130-2 rockets 4 4
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 4 x 250 kg Type 250-2 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 4 x 250 kg 250-3 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 4 x 250 kg 250-4 bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 14 x Type 90-1 rockets
  • 8 x Type 130-2 rockets

The Q-5A has access to all of the loadouts of the Q-5 early, the difference being that it can equip two rocket pods with four 130 mm Type 130-2 rockets in addition to the 90 mm Type 90-1 rockets. The 130 mm rockets pack HE warheads with 7.68 kg of TNT equivalent each, roughly comparable to the US Zuni rocket. A direct hit to the turret and hull roof armour of a MBT can cause catastrophic or fatal damage through overpressure. Side aspect shots can also work provided the target does not have thick side armour. Lightly armoured targets should be annihilated if hit anywhere. The capacity of 8 is very limited but the ballistic computer greatly helps in aiming them.

The Type 90-1 rockets are better than the anaemic S-5 rockets used by typical Soviet jets and can penetrate 280 mm of armour with 1.03 kg of TNT equivalent, but typically several hits are required to destroy an armoured target due to the lower post-penetration effect.

The four 250 kg bombs should be familiar to anyone who has used the Q-5 early, but the Q-5A does not have an internal bomb bay and all four are mounted on fuselage hardpoints instead. This causes more drag but the pilot no longer has to worry about manually opening the bomb bay. It also has access to low-drag Type 250-3 bombs, which should be taken preferentially because they have more explosive content than the Type 250-2. These are still small for the Q-5's battle rating and four of them is not enough to destroy a single base. In mixed battles, they require more precision against ground targets than the typical 1,000 lb/500 kg bombs used for CAS. The Q-5A's ballistic computer offers CCIP, but not CCRP functionality for these bombs.

Usage in battles

Although it was historically an attack aircraft, the Q-5 is not a first-rate ground attacker in Air RB since its ordnance is rather anaemic compared to other jets at its battle rating. It cannot destroy a base with its four 250 kg bombs, but this is still an option for supplementary research points when grinding: stay at low altitude, loop around to a side base, drop the bombs, then head towards the center of the map to join the furball. Going after AI ground vehicles with the bombs and rockets can also be successful provided that other jets do not arrive quickly to crash the party.

The Q-5A can outrun many of the enemy fighters it faces, but active combat at transonic or supersonic speeds should be avoided because of the control compression. The best way to reverse enemies is to pull them into a climbing spiral or other vertical manoeuvres; the Q-5 has enough of the MiG-19's climb and thrust-to-weight characteristics to energy fight in a similar manner, the declining airspeed relaxes the control compression, and a stalled-out target is easier to gun down. It should be obvious that actual MiG-19 models such as the German MiG-19S are better than the Q-5A in almost every regard when it comes to air-to-air combat. Be very careful about engaging them.

Take advantage of the flares and RWR. Flares are intended to spoof infrared guided missiles. For best results, deploy them in bursts while cutting the afterburner and making evasive manoeuvres, which will hopefully cause the missile to chase a flare instead. Only 18 flares can be carried in total, which is really not much compared to the A-4E's 60 for example. Definitely use them against dangerous missiles that cannot be evaded easily such as the R-60 or AIM-9G, as they will buy time for reversing the target and can save the Q-5A during energy-draining vertical combat. Missiles with limited manoeuvrability or track rates can be dodged with good manoeuvring. The Q-5A can load chaff countermeasures in addition to flares, but chaff is less needed since only primitive radar-guided missiles are present in its BR range.

The RWR will not stop any missiles by itself, but knowing if there are pursuers or radar locks behind you reduces the chance of being surprised by a missile or cannon burst out of nowhere. The RWR is not a replacement for situational awareness, it is still the pilot's duty to look for approaching enemies and missile launches whenever possible.


Ground RB

Like the Q-5 early, the Q-5A is a light ground attacker whose rockets are limited in capacity and whose bombs are limited in power. The Q-5A has a ballistic computer for all ordnance onboard, so players can finally precisely target enemies with guns, bombs, and rockets. It's generally best to use up the rockets and bombs in several passes, then switch to providing air cover. If there are no enemy aircraft or helicopters around, the Q-5A can quickly zoom back to the airfield and restock its weapons for another run.

The Q-5A can carry 90 mm and 130 mm rockets simultaneously. The 130 mm rockets are generally the more effective of the two types because they can easily destroy light targets, even with near-misses, and have the potential to destroy even MBTs with a direct hit through overpressure. However they have a very limited capacity and unlucky hits may only do superficial damage to armoured targets due to their lack of a HEAT warhead. The ballistic computer makes it possible to use them as makeshift standoff weapons against light targets: a good salvo can knock them out from several kilometres away. The 90 mm rockets require direct hits to do any real damage, but also do not have enough capacity to be fired in huge swarms as might be done with the American FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets. They can be used as backups for when the 130 mm rockets are spent or in close range strafing runs as a stronger alternative to cannons.

The 250 kg Type 250-3 bombs are the Q-5A's best bet against armoured targets, but they do not have much explosive content and need to be delivered with decent accuracy in order to score kills. In Q-5A's case, the addition of the belly fuel tank located in the previous bomb bay caused designers to move the pair of internal bomb racks onto the belly as well; which does help Q-5A for better accuracy with a tighter radius. The CCIP functionality greatly helps in placing them accurately but it does not guarantee pinpoint drops. As with traditional bombing, the most consistent results are obtained by approaching at steeper angles.

Although the Q-5A has the tools to unleash a fair amount of pain on enemy tanks, its lack of long-range guided weapons like the AGM-12B Bullpup makes it vulnerable to radar-guided SPAA guns, or even IFVs with optical tracking. Use the RWR, keep a low profile, and pay attention to the battlefield to determine if it is safe to get close. If not, plan approaches carefully and use the rockets to clear out threats from safer distances. Once enemy defenses are suppressed, the bombs can be used at leisure.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High acceleration, great energy retention, and decent climb rate
  • Faster than the Q-5 early
  • Good ammunition stock
  • Good sustained manoeuvrability, can out-turn F-4 Phantoms and keep up with MiG-21s
  • First aircraft in the Chinese tech tree to have flares
  • Has a radar warning receiver
  • 130 mm rockets pack quite a punch against ground targets when detonating on target
  • Ballistic computer for gun, rockets, and bombs

Cons:

  • Gun-fighter only, still no missiles
  • Average roll rate
  • Tail locks up at high speeds
  • Easily beaten in manoeuvrability by subsonic aircraft
  • The 23 mm cannons sometimes fall short in damage, less lethal than J-6A's 30 mm cannons
  • Ordnance capacity is still below average for its rank


History

The Nanchang Q-5A 'Fantan' was the first variant of the Chinese ground attack aircraft, which has seen over 50 years of continuous service.[1] Developed in the early 1950s as a replacement for ageing Soviet-made IL-10 attack aircraft, the plane was developed from the MiG-19 airframe. Though it entered service relatively late due to the effects of the Cultural Revolution, it still saw extensive service as the primary attack aircraft of the Chinese Air Force. As well, it was exported to several countries including Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Though it has now been retired from active Chinese service, the aircraft remains in service with the Myanmar Air Force.[1][2]

Design and development

In the early 1950s, China lacked and needed a new ground attack aircraft. While other nations were re-equipping with advanced attack aircraft such as the A-4 Skyhawk and F-100 Super Sabre, the Chinese Air Force still used the obsolete propeller-powered IL-10, a relic of the Second World War. As a result, the Chinese Air Force started studying concepts for a new supersonic jet-powered attack aircraft. As the state of Chinese aircraft technology was far behind from other nations, and as a result, existing designs were studied; these included the Soviet Su-7 and MiG-19, which was already in service as the Shenyang J-6.[2] As a result, the final design was based on the MiG-19, and shared many of its characteristics.[2]

The Q-5 shared the MiG-19's aft section and engines, but had a completely redesigned forward section making it 25% longer.[2] As a result, the aircraft had a significantly reduced top speed, though it was still capable of flying supersonic. The nose was redesigned and featured the air intakes on the sides, behind the cockpit, while the cockpit canopy was adjusted as well. The armament was changed to two 23 mm cannons in place of the MiG-19's NR-30s.[2]

The Q-5's construction was delayed due to the effects of the Great Leap Forward and the Cultural Revolution. Thus, the first Q-5 prototype flew on June 4th, 1965.[2]

Operational history

Nanchang Q-5 in reflective white paint scheme.

The first Q-5As entered in the early 1970s in limited quantities, followed by mass-scale production. Over the course of a decade, almost 600 Q-5A airframes were built. As well, a small number of Q-5As were modified to carry a single nuclear bomb semi-recessed in the fuselage; one of the modified aircraft was indeed used in this manner in a nuclear bomb test in January of 1972.[3] The Q-5As used in this role are easily identifiable because of the bright-white anti-flash paint scheme that protected the aircraft from nuclear flash.[2][3]

The Q-5A saw little combat action due to its relatively short time in service before being superseded by later variants of the aircraft. However, modified Q-5As remained the backbone of China's tactical nuclear strike force for several years. Though it has since been superseded in the nuclear and conventional strike role by the JH-7 Flying Leopard, late variants of the Q-5 remain in service with the Myanmar Air Force.[1][2]

Media

Skins
Videos
Are You ready for pain? Q-5A - China - Review! - Jengar

See also

The Q-5 Fantan family

  • Q-5 early - LRIP and first series of Q-5
  • A-5C - Export variants to Pakistan with western weaponries
  • Q-5L - LGB platform based on the Q-5C/Q-5II

External links

References

Citations
  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Peck, M. (2019)
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5 2.6 2.7 Eastern Order of Battle. (n.d.)
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Staff Writer. (2020)
Bibliography
  • Peck, M. (2019, October 18). Meet the Nanchang Q-5: China's Nuclear Bomber. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/meet-nanchang-q-5-chinas-nuclear-bomber-89681
  • Eastern Order of Battle. (n.d.). Nanchang Q-5 Fantan attack aircraft at the People's Liberation Army Air Force Part One. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from http://www.easternorbat.com/html/nanchang_q-5_fantan_01_eng.html
  • Staff Writer. (2020, April 27). Nanchang Q-5 (Fantan) Ground Attack / Close-Air Support (CAS) Aircraft. Retrieved November 20, 2020, from https://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=568


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

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