Difference between revisions of "F6F-5"

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{{Specs-Card|code=f6f-3}}
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{{About
 +
| about = American naval fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
 +
| link = F6F (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=f6f-3
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage2_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 +
|cockpit=cockpit_f6f-3.jpg
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
[[File:GarageImage_F6F-5Hellcat.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
<!-- ''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 Grumman F6F Hellcat was used extensively in the Pacific Theater of WWII. The Hellcat was the ultimate answer against extremely manoeuvrable Japanese [[A6M2|Zeroes]]. This plane greatly outperformed the Zero when taking advantage of high speeds and altitudes while having much better survivability thanks to the robust fuselage and the armour around the pilot. The F6F-5 was one of the latest versions of the Grumman F6F Hellcat. It was an improved version, with a redesigned engine cowling, a new windscreen structure with an integral bulletproof windscreen, new ailerons and strengthened tail surfaces; powered by a 2,200 hp (1,641 kW) Pratt & Whitney R-2800-10W (-W denotes Water Injection) radial piston engine.
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{{break}}
 
−
The '''F6F-5 ''Hellcat''''' is a Rank II American naval fighter with a battle rating of 3.0 (AB) and 3.7 (RB/SB). This aircraft has been in game since the start of the Open Beta Test starting out as the '''F6F-3 ''Hellcat''''' and was remodeled and updated to the '''F6F-5 ''Hellcat''''' in [[Update_1.65_"Way_of_the_Samurai"|Update 1.65 "Way of the Samurai"]].  
 
  
−
The Grumman F6F ''Hellcat'' was used extensively in the Pacific Theater of WWII. The Hellcat was the ultimate answer against extremely manouverable Japanese [[A6M2|Zeroes]]. This plane greatly out performed the Zero when taking advantage of high speeds and altitudes. The ''Hellcat'' can carry versatile payloads which will allow it to be utilized in various operations to include ground attack.
+
It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27, starting out as the '''F6F-3 Hellcat''' and was remodeled and updated to the '''F6F-5 Hellcat''' in [[Update 1.65 "Way of the Samurai"]]. The Hellcat can carry versatile payloads which will allow it to be utilized in various operations to include ground attack. As a very good multirole aircraft, it features both a decent flight performance and a very capable armament. With enough bombs and rockets to deal with enemy tanks, it is specially deadly in ground battles, in this scenarios, it can be used to destroy some vehicles and then act as an air superiority fighter, stopping enemy bombers from reaching the battlefield. In naval battles it can also carry a single torpedo, in this cases, it is more agile than dedicated torpedo bombers, but its higher BR means that it will face more deadly cruisers with good AA guns.
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 
Due to its role as a naval fighter, the F6F-5's take-off distance is small enough to take flight from the carrier decks seen in the game.
 
Due to its role as a naval fighter, the F6F-5's take-off distance is small enough to take flight from the carrier decks seen in the game.
  
−
Powered by a high-output Pratt & Whitney engine, the F6F-5's flight performance centers around this powerful engine combined with a sturdy fuselage. While the bulk makes the plane quite sluggish compared to some of its contemporaries, the characteristics are still favorable for energy retention. This makes the plane very favorable for Boom-n-Zoom tactics against enemies.
+
Powered by a high-output Pratt & Whitney engine, the F6F-5's flight performance centres around this powerful engine combined with a sturdy fuselage. While the bulk makes the plane quite sluggish compared to some of its contemporaries, the characteristics are still favourable for energy retention. This makes the plane very favourable for Boom-n-Zoom tactics against enemies.
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 +
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,730 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 +
|-
 +
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 +
|-
 +
! Stock
 +
| 618 || 599 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 21.6 || 22.5 || 8.9 || 8.9 || rowspan="2" | 239
 +
|-
 +
! Upgraded
 +
| 677 || 647 || 19.4 || 20.5 || 17.7 || 12.6
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Details ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | Features
 +
|-
 +
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
 +
|-
 +
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | Limits
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
 +
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 +
|-
 +
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 +
|-
 +
| 803 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 487 || 458 || 310 || ~12 || ~5
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 450 || < 420 || < 420 || > 200
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
====Engine performance====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Engine
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Engine Name
 +
! colspan="3" | Number present
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="3" | Pratt & Whitney R-2800-10w 18-cylinder || colspan="1" | 1
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Engine characteristics
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="2" | Weight (each)
 +
! colspan="1" | Type
 +
! colspan="1" | Cooling
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="2" | 1,030 kg || Radial || Air
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Engine power (Stock)
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="1" | Mode
 +
! colspan="2" | Max
 +
! colspan="2" | Take-off
 +
|-
 +
| ''Arcade'' || colspan="2" | 1,773 hp || colspan="2" | 2,171 hp
 +
|-
 +
| ''Realistic/Simulator'' || colspan="2" | 1,752 hp || colspan="2" | 2,150 hp
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Engine power (Upgraded)
 +
|-
 +
! Mode
 +
! colspan="2" | Max
 +
! colspan="2" | Take-off
 +
|-
 +
| ''Arcade'' || colspan="2" | 2,299 hp || colspan="2" | 2,697 hp
 +
|-
 +
| ''Realistic/Simulator'' || colspan="2" | 1,999 hp || colspan="2" | 2,397 hp
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | WEP Duration
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="2" | Arcade
 +
! colspan="2" | Realistic/Simulator
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="2" | 25 seconds || colspan="2" | 12 min, 10 seconds
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and 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. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
+
{{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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot.
 +
* 6.35 mm Steel plates behind the pilot.
 +
* 3 mm Steel plates front and rear of the oil cooling system.
 +
* 3 mm Steel plate on fuselage top in front of the pilot.
 +
* 3 mm Steel plates under engine and oil cooling system.
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
 
 +
'''Recommendation:'''<br>
 +
Performance and machine gun upgrade modules are a must. Unlocking the upgraded ammo belts well increase the lethality of this aircraft. This plane can be a powerful fighter in the right hands due to its performance. Unlocking the performance modules first to increase survivability.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
The F6F-5 Hellcat is armed with:
+
{{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.'' -->
 +
{{main|M2 Browning (12.7 mm)}}
  
−
* 6 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns (400 rpg = 2,400 total)
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
The six machine guns are arranged in bundles of three on each wing. Each are armed with the same amount of ammunition, which means that all guns will fire with each other until empty.
+
* 6 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (400 rpg = 2,400 total)
 +
 
 +
The six machine guns are arranged in bundles of three on each wing. Each is armed with the same amount of ammunition, which means that all guns will fire with each other until empty.
  
 
The M2 Browning variant on the F6F-5 Hellcat is that of an earlier version of belts.
 
The M2 Browning variant on the F6F-5 Hellcat is that of an earlier version of belts.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
The options available for the F6F-5 Hellcat are:
+
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
−
* 6 x 127 mm HVAR [[rockets]]
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
* 2 x 298 mm Tiny Tim rockets
 
−
* 2 x 1000 lbs AN-M65A1 [[Bombs|bombs]]
 
−
* 6 x 127 mm HVAR rockets + 2 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs
 
−
* 1 x 2,216 lb Mk.13 [[Torpedoes|Torpedo]]
 
  
−
== Usage in the battles ==
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
−
The key to both surviving and owning in the F6F is to keep your speed up, and try to be even marginally higher then your opponents. Below 300 km/h (186 mph) it is very sluggish. As with most American fighters, [[BnZ|boom and zoom]] is the preferred combat mode for the Hellcat, while its moderate high-speed maneuverability can be used to add in a high yo-yo. It has a lot of ammo, but a good aim is still important since boom-n-zoom only allows you a small window of opportunity to hit your target before you have to climb back to altitude. Still this is an excellent plane to practice your aim and tactics with because it's more forgiving than most boom-n-zoom fighters. If you don't have a particularly good aim, a good tactic is to open up at 500 m (0.31 mi), starting with your aim on the aircraft, and then slowly move your aim in front of the target. You won't require as much lead when diving on your target at 600+ km/h (373+ mph).
 
  
−
With dual 1000-pound bombs and six HVAR rockets armed, the Hellcat is actually a stable game-ending platform in a pinch when the rest of your team is not ground-attacking. The two Tiny Tim Anti-tank rockets can also be good for taking out heavier targets. Sometimes, it is useful to save the Cat as your last plane just for that.  You can always jettison the rockets and bombs if you're suddenly forced to dogfight.
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! !! width="5%" | 1 !! width="5%" | 2 !! width="5%" | 3 !! width="5%" | 4 !! width="5%" | 5 !! width="5%" | 6 !! width="5%" | 7 !! width="5%" | 8 !! width="5%" | 9
 +
| rowspan="9" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|500 lb AN-M64A1]] bombs
 +
| || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb AN-M65A1]] bombs
 +
| || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)|1,600 lb AN-Mk 1]] bombs
 +
| || || || || 1 || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb AN-M66A2]] bombs
 +
| || || || || 1 || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[HVAR]] rockets
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[Tiny Tim]] rockets
 +
| || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[Mk.13-6 Case (2,216 lb)|2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case]] torpedoes
 +
| || || || || 1 || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="10" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 1,815 kg<br>Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 680 kg
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
−
It is incredibly important to use [[Guide to Manual Engine Controls|Manual Engine Controls]] whilst piloting the Hellcat in Realistic or Simulator Battles. The Hellcat has access to three Supercharger gears, each tailored for a different altitude, and each will greatly improve your performance at their appropriate altitudes.
+
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
 
 +
* Without load
 +
* 6 x HVAR rockets
 +
* 3 x Tiny Tim rockets
 +
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 +
* 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
 +
* 1 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bomb (1,600 lb total)
 +
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb (2,000 lb total)
 +
* 1 x 2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case torpedo
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
 +
 
 +
== 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).'' -->
 +
The key to both surviving and owning in the F6F is to keep your speed up and try to be even marginally higher than your opponents. Below 300 km/h (186 mph) it is very sluggish. As with most American fighters, Boom & Zoom is the preferred combat mode for the Hellcat, while its moderate high-speed manoeuvrability can be used to add in a high yo-yo. It has a lot of ammo, but a good aim is still important since boom-n-zoom only allows you a small window of opportunity to hit your target before you have to climb back to altitude. Still, this is an excellent aircraft to practice your aim and tactics with because it's more forgiving than most boom-n-zoom fighters. If you don't have a particularly good aim, a good tactic is to open up at 500 m (0.31 mi), starting with your aim on the aircraft, and then slowly move your aim in front of the target. You won't require as much lead when diving on your target at 600+ km/h (373+ mph).
 +
 
 +
With dual 1,000 lb bombs and six HVAR rockets armed, the Hellcat is actually a stable game-ending platform in a pinch when the rest of your team is not ground-attacking. With the two 1,000 pounds of bombs and six HVAR or two Tiny Tim rockets, the F6F-5 Hellcat makes a great strike fighter. The two Tiny Tim Anti-tank rockets can also be good for taking out heavier targets. Sometimes, it is useful to save the Cat as your last plane just for that. You can always jettison the rockets and bombs if you're suddenly forced to dogfight, jettisoning the ordnance increases speed as well as climb rate, while also decreasing turn time.
 +
 
 +
It is incredibly important to use Manual Engine Controls whilst piloting the Hellcat in Realistic or Simulator Battles. The Hellcat has access to three Supercharger gears, each tailored for a different altitude, and each will greatly improve your performance at their appropriate altitudes.
 +
 
 +
You must climb as high as you can - altitude is life, and once you dive, you can't get it back. Once you're on the deck, you're toast.
  
 
'''Keep in mind:'''
 
'''Keep in mind:'''
−
*It has a lot of engine power, but at anywhere between 5.7 and 7 tonnes, getting up to altitude isn't very easy.
+
 
−
*Resist the temptation to get into low-altitude turning fights. This is a heavy aircraft and it will lose a massive amount of speed in turns.
+
* It has a lot of engine power, but at anywhere between 5.7 and 7 tonnes, getting up to altitude isn't very easy.
−
*While it has plenty of explosive armament options, in Realistic and Simulator battles the added weight and drag will usually make you an easy target for other fighters. Since most air battles are basically dogfights, you're often better off without the extra weight.
+
* Resist the temptation to get into low-altitude turning fights. This is a heavy aircraft and it will lose a massive amount of speed in turns.
−
*This thing will perform reasonably well at low altitudes, but it's still recommended to stay at an altitude of 3 km or higher.
+
* While it has plenty of explosive armament options, in Realistic and Simulator battles the added weight and drag will usually make you an easy target for other fighters. Since most air battles are basically dogfights, you're often better off without the extra weight.
 +
* This thing will perform reasonably well at low altitudes, but it's still recommended to stay at an altitude of 3 km or higher.
 +
 
 +
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 +
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
 +
! colspan="3" | Radiator
 +
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 +
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 +
|-
 +
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 +
|-
 +
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Controllable<br>3 gears || Not controllable
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 +
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 +
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
*Can carry a lot of payload for a Rank II aircraft.
+
 
−
*One of the few fighters that can carry a torpedo.
+
* One of the few fighters that can carry a torpedo
−
*Very effective in either air-to-air or air-to-ground, very versatile.
+
* Versatile; very effective in either air-to-air or air-to-ground
−
*Bombs are mounted directly under the fuselage, very accurate when dive bombing.
+
* Bombs are mounted directly under the fuselage, allowing for accurate dive bombing
−
*Good climb rate.
+
* Very good dive rate
−
*Very good dive rate.
+
* Good cockpit visibility
−
*Good cockpit visibility.
+
* Extremely efficient cooling systems
−
*Extremely efficient cooling systems.
+
* Lots of ammo
−
*Lots of ammo.
+
* Can take some hits
−
*Cheap repair cost.
+
* Decent at energy fighting, although not as good as the Bf 109 F-4
−
*Can take some hits.
+
 
−
*Decent at energy fighting, although not as good as the 109 F-4.
 
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*You have to fly at a very low altitude at a very low speed to drop the torpedo, which is impractical.
+
 
−
*Only 3 salvos of HVAR rockets.
+
* Torpedo must be dropped at a very low altitude and speed, making the plane vulnerable during attack runs
−
*Carrying the two 1000 lb bombs and the 6 HVAR rockets add also a worse climb rate.
+
* Can carry only 3 salvos of HVAR rockets
−
*Slower top speed compared to other contemporary US fighters at similar BR.
+
* Slower top speed compared to other contemporary US fighters
−
*Higher stall speed than its Japanese counterparts.
+
* Higher stall speed than its Japanese counterparts
−
*Control stiffening above moderate speeds.
+
* Poor climb rate
−
*Poor roll rate.
+
* Control stiffening above moderate speeds
−
*Large fuselage cross section makes it an easy target.
+
* Poor roll rate
−
*Guns mounted further on the wings making it harder to aim at a target that is smaller than you.
+
* Large fuselage cross-section makes it a large target
−
*Despite its formidable reputation as the Zero killer, a Zero could still easily kill it if you are forced to fight on the Zero's terms.
+
* Wing-mounted guns may cause convergence issues
 +
* Slow acceleration
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
The F6F Hellcat was Grumman's next fighter after the successful Wildcat. The F6F was designed from the start to be the ultimate answer against the Japanese Zero. The Hellcat was the planned replacement to the Wildcat since Pearl Harbor. The aircraft was designed from the start to be a much bigger airframe. The plan was to create a carrier based fighter with more ammo, fuel, and larger wings. The XF6F-1 Prototype was already in the works when the U.S. officially entered World War II. Grumman engineers knew they would have to create an aircraft that was faster and climbed better based on combat experience and data collected from the A6M captured in the Aleutians. The prototype flew in June of 1942 and was powered by a Wright Cyclone R-2600. The aircraft's performance was not satisfactory. The decision was made to replace the power plant with the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp.  
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 +
The F6F Hellcat was Grumman's next fighter after the successful Wildcat. The F6F was designed from the start to be the ultimate answer against the Japanese Zero. The Hellcat was the planned replacement to the Wildcat since Pearl Harbor. The aircraft was designed from the start to be a much bigger airframe. The plan was to create a carrier-based fighter with more ammo, fuel, and larger wings. The XF6F-1 Prototype was already in the works when the U.S. officially entered World War II. Grumman engineers knew they would have to create an aircraft that was faster and climbed better based on combat experience and data collected from the A6M captured in the Aleutians. The prototype flew in June of 1942 and was powered by a Wright Cyclone R-2600. The aircraft's performance was not satisfactory. The decision was made to replace the powerplant with the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp.
  
−
The U.S. Navy needed a new carrier based fighter. The Corsair and the Hellcat were both competing to fill that role. With delays in the F4U Corsair project, the Hellcat took the role as the primary fighter and never looked back. The new Hellcat excelled in nearly every way over the A6M Zeroes it faced. The Hellcat unlike its opponents, featured self sealing fuel tanks and additional armour. The Hellcat quickly gained nicknames like "ace maker". The payload options helped transformed the Hellcat into a multi-role fighter that propelled it to legendary status. During its service life, the F6F was credited with the destruction of over 5,200 aircraft. It remained in service as late as 1954.
+
The U.S. Navy needed a new carrier-based fighter. The Corsair and the Hellcat were both competing to fill that role. With delays in the F4U Corsair project, the Hellcat took the role as the primary fighter and never looked back. The new Hellcat excelled in nearly every way over the A6M Zeroes it faced. The Hellcat, unlike its opponents, featured self-sealing fuel tanks and additional armour. The Hellcat quickly gained nicknames like "ace maker". The payload options helped transformed the Hellcat into a multi-role fighter that propelled it to legendary status. During its service life, the F6F was credited with the destruction of over 5,200 aircraft. It remained in service as late as 1954.
 +
 
 +
{{break}}
 +
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
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One of the best single-seater carrier-based fighters of World War II was the Grumman F6F-3 Hellcat. The Hellcat owes its existence to the long string of failures experienced by the F4U Corsair. The Corsair was meant to replace the F4F Wildcat, but the prototype was full of flaws, as were the first production models. So, it was decided that a modification of the F4F Wildcat would be designed to satisfy the needs of the U.S. Navy until the arrival of the Corsair. Thankfully, things did not go according to plan. The "temporary substitute" performed amazingly well against the A6M Zero and garnered too much praise to be cast aside. Production of the F6F continued well after the Corsair arrived and continued after the war. The F6F would still be active during many conflicts to come.
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The F6F-3 was known for its superb speed and above-average manoeuvrability, and, according to official statistics, Hellcats destroyed 5,156 enemy planes, 75% of all kills scored by the US naval air force in World War II.
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Production of the F6F continued until 1949, and 12,275 F6Fs (including 4,402 F6F-3s) were produced. The F6F was the most widely-used American carrier fighter in World War II.
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* [[wt:en/news/2627/current/|[Vehicle Profile] The F6F 'Hellcat']]
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* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/341957-f6f-5-hellcat/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
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{{AirManufacturer Grumman}}
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{{USA fighters}}

Revision as of 01:23, 1 September 2024

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the American naval fighter F6F-5. For other versions, see F6F (Family).
F6F-5
f6f-3.png
GarageImage F6F-5.jpg
ArtImage2 F6F-5.png
360://https://wiki.warthunder.com/images/d/de/Cockpit_f6f-3.jpg
F6F-5
USA flag.png USA
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.0 3.3 3.7
Class:
Research:6 900 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:32 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Grumman F6F Hellcat was used extensively in the Pacific Theater of WWII. The Hellcat was the ultimate answer against extremely manoeuvrable Japanese Zeroes. This plane greatly outperformed the Zero when taking advantage of high speeds and altitudes while having much better survivability thanks to the robust fuselage and the armour around the pilot. The F6F-5 was one of the latest versions of the Grumman F6F Hellcat. It was an improved version, with a redesigned engine cowling, a new windscreen structure with an integral bulletproof windscreen, new ailerons and strengthened tail surfaces; powered by a 2,200 hp (1,641 kW) Pratt & Whitney R-2800-10W (-W denotes Water Injection) radial piston engine.

It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27, starting out as the F6F-3 Hellcat and was remodeled and updated to the F6F-5 Hellcat in Update 1.65 "Way of the Samurai". The Hellcat can carry versatile payloads which will allow it to be utilized in various operations to include ground attack. As a very good multirole aircraft, it features both a decent flight performance and a very capable armament. With enough bombs and rockets to deal with enemy tanks, it is specially deadly in ground battles, in this scenarios, it can be used to destroy some vehicles and then act as an air superiority fighter, stopping enemy bombers from reaching the battlefield. In naval battles it can also carry a single torpedo, in this cases, it is more agile than dedicated torpedo bombers, but its higher BR means that it will face more deadly cruisers with good AA guns.

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Max speed
at 5 730 m647 km/h
Turn time20 s
Max altitude11 000 m
EnginePratt & Whitney R-2800-10w
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight7 t

Due to its role as a naval fighter, the F6F-5's take-off distance is small enough to take flight from the carrier decks seen in the game.

Powered by a high-output Pratt & Whitney engine, the F6F-5's flight performance centres around this powerful engine combined with a sturdy fuselage. While the bulk makes the plane quite sluggish compared to some of its contemporaries, the characteristics are still favourable for energy retention. This makes the plane very favourable for Boom-n-Zoom tactics against enemies.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 5,730 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 618 599 11000 21.6 22.5 8.9 8.9 239
Upgraded 677 647 19.4 20.5 17.7 12.6

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
803 375 487 458 310 ~12 ~5
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 450 < 420 < 420 > 200

Engine performance

Engine
Engine Name Number present
Pratt & Whitney R-2800-10w 18-cylinder 1
Engine characteristics
Weight (each) Type Cooling
1,030 kg Radial Air
Engine power (Stock)
Mode Max Take-off
Arcade 1,773 hp 2,171 hp
Realistic/Simulator 1,752 hp 2,150 hp
Engine power (Upgraded)
Mode Max Take-off
Arcade 2,299 hp 2,697 hp
Realistic/Simulator 1,999 hp 2,397 hp
WEP Duration
Arcade Realistic/Simulator
25 seconds 12 min, 10 seconds

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear375 km/h
  • 38 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot.
  • 6.35 mm Steel plates behind the pilot.
  • 3 mm Steel plates front and rear of the oil cooling system.
  • 3 mm Steel plate on fuselage top in front of the pilot.
  • 3 mm Steel plates under engine and oil cooling system.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB784 → 984 Sl icon.png
RB1 658 → 2 082 Sl icon.png
SB2 538 → 3 187 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications13 830 Rp icon.png
20 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost860 Ge icon.png
Crew training9 200 Sl icon.png
Experts32 000 Sl icon.png
Aces320 Ge icon.png
Research Aces250 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
50 / 110 / 240 % Sl icon.png
130 / 130 / 130 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_belt_pack
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon torpedo.png
ITC mk.III
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
FRC mk.2
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
500 LB
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
bmg50_new_gun
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
LFRC mk.12
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FLBC mk.1
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
M66
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png

Recommendation:
Performance and machine gun upgrade modules are a must. Unlocking the upgraded ammo belts well increase the lethality of this aircraft. This plane can be a powerful fighter in the right hands due to its performance. Unlocking the performance modules first to increase survivability.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: M2 Browning (12.7 mm)

The F6F-5 is armed with:

  • 6 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (400 rpg = 2,400 total)

The six machine guns are arranged in bundles of three on each wing. Each is armed with the same amount of ammunition, which means that all guns will fire with each other until empty.

The M2 Browning variant on the F6F-5 Hellcat is that of an earlier version of belts.

Suspended armament

The F6F-5 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
Hardpoints F6F-5.png
500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs 1 1 1
1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs 1 1 1
1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs 1
2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs 1
HVAR rockets 1 1 1 1 1 1
Tiny Tim rockets 1 1 1
2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case torpedoes 1
Maximum permissible loadout weight: 1,815 kg
Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 680 kg
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 6 x HVAR rockets
  • 3 x Tiny Tim rockets
  • 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bomb (1,600 lb total)
  • 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb (2,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case torpedo

Usage in battles

The key to both surviving and owning in the F6F is to keep your speed up and try to be even marginally higher than your opponents. Below 300 km/h (186 mph) it is very sluggish. As with most American fighters, Boom & Zoom is the preferred combat mode for the Hellcat, while its moderate high-speed manoeuvrability can be used to add in a high yo-yo. It has a lot of ammo, but a good aim is still important since boom-n-zoom only allows you a small window of opportunity to hit your target before you have to climb back to altitude. Still, this is an excellent aircraft to practice your aim and tactics with because it's more forgiving than most boom-n-zoom fighters. If you don't have a particularly good aim, a good tactic is to open up at 500 m (0.31 mi), starting with your aim on the aircraft, and then slowly move your aim in front of the target. You won't require as much lead when diving on your target at 600+ km/h (373+ mph).

With dual 1,000 lb bombs and six HVAR rockets armed, the Hellcat is actually a stable game-ending platform in a pinch when the rest of your team is not ground-attacking. With the two 1,000 pounds of bombs and six HVAR or two Tiny Tim rockets, the F6F-5 Hellcat makes a great strike fighter. The two Tiny Tim Anti-tank rockets can also be good for taking out heavier targets. Sometimes, it is useful to save the Cat as your last plane just for that. You can always jettison the rockets and bombs if you're suddenly forced to dogfight, jettisoning the ordnance increases speed as well as climb rate, while also decreasing turn time.

It is incredibly important to use Manual Engine Controls whilst piloting the Hellcat in Realistic or Simulator Battles. The Hellcat has access to three Supercharger gears, each tailored for a different altitude, and each will greatly improve your performance at their appropriate altitudes.

You must climb as high as you can - altitude is life, and once you dive, you can't get it back. Once you're on the deck, you're toast.

Keep in mind:

  • It has a lot of engine power, but at anywhere between 5.7 and 7 tonnes, getting up to altitude isn't very easy.
  • Resist the temptation to get into low-altitude turning fights. This is a heavy aircraft and it will lose a massive amount of speed in turns.
  • While it has plenty of explosive armament options, in Realistic and Simulator battles the added weight and drag will usually make you an easy target for other fighters. Since most air battles are basically dogfights, you're often better off without the extra weight.
  • This thing will perform reasonably well at low altitudes, but it's still recommended to stay at an altitude of 3 km or higher.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Not controllable Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Separate Controllable
3 gears 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • One of the few fighters that can carry a torpedo
  • Versatile; very effective in either air-to-air or air-to-ground
  • Bombs are mounted directly under the fuselage, allowing for accurate dive bombing
  • Very good dive rate
  • Good cockpit visibility
  • Extremely efficient cooling systems
  • Lots of ammo
  • Can take some hits
  • Decent at energy fighting, although not as good as the Bf 109 F-4

Cons:

  • Torpedo must be dropped at a very low altitude and speed, making the plane vulnerable during attack runs
  • Can carry only 3 salvos of HVAR rockets
  • Slower top speed compared to other contemporary US fighters
  • Higher stall speed than its Japanese counterparts
  • Poor climb rate
  • Control stiffening above moderate speeds
  • Poor roll rate
  • Large fuselage cross-section makes it a large target
  • Wing-mounted guns may cause convergence issues
  • Slow acceleration

History

The F6F Hellcat was Grumman's next fighter after the successful Wildcat. The F6F was designed from the start to be the ultimate answer against the Japanese Zero. The Hellcat was the planned replacement to the Wildcat since Pearl Harbor. The aircraft was designed from the start to be a much bigger airframe. The plan was to create a carrier-based fighter with more ammo, fuel, and larger wings. The XF6F-1 Prototype was already in the works when the U.S. officially entered World War II. Grumman engineers knew they would have to create an aircraft that was faster and climbed better based on combat experience and data collected from the A6M captured in the Aleutians. The prototype flew in June of 1942 and was powered by a Wright Cyclone R-2600. The aircraft's performance was not satisfactory. The decision was made to replace the powerplant with the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp.

The U.S. Navy needed a new carrier-based fighter. The Corsair and the Hellcat were both competing to fill that role. With delays in the F4U Corsair project, the Hellcat took the role as the primary fighter and never looked back. The new Hellcat excelled in nearly every way over the A6M Zeroes it faced. The Hellcat, unlike its opponents, featured self-sealing fuel tanks and additional armour. The Hellcat quickly gained nicknames like "ace maker". The payload options helped transformed the Hellcat into a multi-role fighter that propelled it to legendary status. During its service life, the F6F was credited with the destruction of over 5,200 aircraft. It remained in service as late as 1954.


Archive of the in-game description

One of the best single-seater carrier-based fighters of World War II was the Grumman F6F-3 Hellcat. The Hellcat owes its existence to the long string of failures experienced by the F4U Corsair. The Corsair was meant to replace the F4F Wildcat, but the prototype was full of flaws, as were the first production models. So, it was decided that a modification of the F4F Wildcat would be designed to satisfy the needs of the U.S. Navy until the arrival of the Corsair. Thankfully, things did not go according to plan. The "temporary substitute" performed amazingly well against the A6M Zero and garnered too much praise to be cast aside. Production of the F6F continued well after the Corsair arrived and continued after the war. The F6F would still be active during many conflicts to come.

The F6F-3 was known for its superb speed and above-average manoeuvrability, and, according to official statistics, Hellcats destroyed 5,156 enemy planes, 75% of all kills scored by the US naval air force in World War II.

Production of the F6F continued until 1949, and 12,275 F6Fs (including 4,402 F6F-3s) were produced. The F6F was the most widely-used American carrier fighter in World War II.


Media

Skins
Images

  • Old camouflage scheme of the F6F-5.

  • ArtImage F6F-5.png
Videos
Best naval fighters discusses the F6F-5 at 0:55 - War Thunder Official Channel

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links


Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation
Aircraft 
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Prototypes  XP-55
F2A Buffalo  F2A-1 · Thach's F2A-1 · F2A-3
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