Difference between revisions of "Fw 190 A-1"

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{{Specs-Card|code=fw-190a-1}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = German fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| usage = other versions
 
| usage = other versions
 
| link = Fw 190 (Family)
 
| link = Fw 190 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=fw-190a-1
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage2_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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_Fw190A1.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 Würger (Shrike) was a single-seat, single-engine monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe in WWII. One of the best fighters of the time, it was widely used during the Second World War. A total of over 20,000 were produced, including some 6,000 fighter-bomber variants. The Fw 190 remained in production from 1941 until the end of the war, going through multiple redesigns. The Fw 190 made a name for itself as a true Luftwaffe workhorse and was used in a wide variety of roles, including high-altitude interception (especially the [[Fw 190 D-9|Fw 190 D]]), escort, [[Fw 190 F-8|fighter-bombing]] and night fighting. The officially designated nickname "Würger" denotes a kind of carnivorous bird (a shrike), but can also be translated as choker, or strangler. In that regard, it fits the contemporary English designation well, too: "Butcher-bird".
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{{Break}}
 
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.39]]. The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 Wuerger (Shrike) was a single-seat, single-engine monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe in WWII. One of the best fighters of the time, it was widely used during the Second World War. A total of over 20,000 were produced, including some 6,000 fighter-bomber variants. The 190 remained in production from 1941 until the end of the war, going through multiple redesigns. The Fw 190 made a name for itself as a true Luftwaffe workhorse and was used in a wide variety of roles, including a high-altitude interceptor (especially the [[Fw_190_D-9|Fw 190 D]]), escort fighter, [[Fw_190_F-8|fighter-bomber]] and night fighter.
 
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''"Würger"'' is the German nickname of this beast of a plane. It can be translated as ''slayer'', ''choker'', or ''strangler''. In that regard fits the English designation well too: ''"Butcher-bird"''
 
  
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The Fw 190A-1, as all the planes in this line, are some of the best Boom and Zoomers in the game and should be flown exclusively in this style. The performance at high speeds is excellent, as is their dive and zoom characteristics. '''Do not ever engage in a turn fight''' as a "furball" with superior turners such as the A6M2 will end badly. Instead fight mainly in the vertical. Try to have an altitude, or speed advantage over your opponents (by climbing to the side at the start of the battle and then enter the highest battle you see). It is still possible to subdue your opponent with the A-1 due to the fantastic roll rate of the "Wurger".
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.39]], the Fw 190 A-1, as all the planes in this line, are some of the best Boom and Zoomers in the game and should be flown exclusively in this style. The performance at high speeds is excellent, as are their dive and zoom characteristics. Do not ever engage in a turnfight as a "furball" with superior turners such as the A6M2 will end badly. Instead, fight mainly in the vertical. Try to have an altitude, or speed, advantage over your opponents (by climbing to the side at the start of the battle and then enter the highest battle you see). It is still possible to subdue your opponent with the A-1 due to the fantastic roll rate of the "Würger".
  
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Unlike the later 190 line ([[Fw_190_A-8|A-8]] and up), the A-1 through [[Fw_190_A-5|A-5]] all possess higher turn capabilities than the rest of the line. The A-1 can, in general, out turn less manoeuvrable planes such as the [[LaGG-3-8|LaGG-3]]. Still, it is not recommended to out-turn, as the A-1 will be placed with many higher-manoeuvring fighters.
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Unlike the later 190 line ([[Fw 190 A-8|A-8]] and up), the A-1 through [[Fw 190 A-5|A-5]] all possess higher turn capabilities than the rest of the line. The A-1 can, in general, out turn less manoeuvrable planes such as the [[LaGG-3 (Family)|LaGG-3]]. However, it is still not recommended to get into turnfights, as the A-1 will be placed with many better-manoeuvring fighters like the [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]].
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
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''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
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{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
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<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
Your control surfaces become noticeably less responsive at low speeds so keep up to speed.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| 629 || 615 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 21.3 || 22.1 || 10.9 || 10.9 || rowspan="2" | 450
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| 629 || 612 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 21.3 || 22.1 || 10.9 || 10.9 || rowspan="2" | 450
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| 676 || 652 || 19.2 || 20.2 || 17.9 || 14.1
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| 676 || 652 || 19.2 || 20.2 || 18.0 || 14.1
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < 420 || < 240 || < 550 || > 280
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| < 420 || < 300 || < 550 || > 320
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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=== 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.'' -->
  
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* 8 & 12 mm Steel plates on pilot's seat.
 
* 8 & 12 mm Steel plates on pilot's seat.
 
* 3 & 5 mm Steel plates in front of oil cooling system.
 
* 3 & 5 mm Steel plates in front of oil cooling system.
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
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 +
While the Focke-Wulf retains it dive abilities even without all upgrades, getting to a vantage point to utilize this strength can prove difficult. Therefore, unlocks in the category "flight performance" are a must, especially those which grant increased climb rate (e.g. "Engine", "Compressor"). New 20 mm belts are also a good choice, as the "Air targets" belt improves the damage significantly. "Stealth" belt for the 20 mm is also favourable due to the composition of the belt, consisting of 3/5 Minengeschoß, and the lack of tracers make aiming easier by not notifying your enemy of your shots, keeping them calm. The 20 mm cannon upgrade is hardly worth though, it tends to run out of ammo before it can overheat, but they can reduce cannon spread. Different story for the 7.92 mm MGs, though. They should be a tertiary priority because of jamming and accuracy.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 +
{{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.'' -->
 +
[[File:Weapon MG FF-M (20 mm) Fw 190 A-1.png|thumb|right|300px|The 20 mm MG FF/M on the Fw 190 A-1 wings.]]
 
{{main|MG FF/M (20 mm)|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}
 
{{main|MG FF/M (20 mm)|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 +
[[File:Weapon MG 17 (7.92 mm) Fw 190 A-1.png|thumb|right|300px|The 7.92 mm MG 17 on the Fw 190 A-1 nose and wings.]]
  
−
* 2 x 20 mm MG FF/M cannons, wing-mounted (60 rpg = 120 total)
+
* 2 x 20 mm MG FF/M cannons, wing-mounted (90 rpg = 180 total)
 
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns, nose-mounted (900 rpg = 1,800 total)
 
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns, nose-mounted (900 rpg = 1,800 total)
 
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns, wing-mounted (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
 
* 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns, wing-mounted (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
 +
 +
Unlike the [[He 112 B-0]] with 2 x MG FF cannons, the Fw 190 has 2 x MG FF/M cannons, which are identical except for the re-engineered shells and barrel for the MG FF/M. The "M" variant has access to the deadly Minengeschoß shells (mine shells) that can wreak havoc on most planes at the rank. However, keep in mind the brutally low velocity of the MG FF/M shells. Fire when within 400 m of your quarry for best results.
 +
 +
The 7.92 mm MG 17 MGs are not effective against most planes. However, when equipped with Stealth belts these MGs can turn into powerful anti-ground destroyers. Armoured cars and AAA are great targets for the MGs.
 +
 +
Watch your ammo count: the Fw 190 A-1 has only 90 rounds per gun. The lower rate of fire on the 20 mm MG FF/M cannons can work in your favour, however.
  
 
== 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).'' -->
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Unlike the [[He 112 B-0]] with 2 x MG FF cannons, the Fw 190 has 2 x MG FF/M cannons, which are identical except for the re-engineered shells and barrel for the MG FF/M. The "M" variant has access to the deadly minengeschoss shells (mine-shells) that can wreak havoc on most planes at the rank. However, keep in mind the brutally low velocity of the MG FF/M shells. Fire when within 400 m of your quarry.
 
  
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The MG 17 LMGs are not effective against most planes; however, when equipped with Stealth belts these MGs can turn into powerful anti-ground destroyers. Armoured cars and AAA are great targets for the MGs. Maintain speed when ground-pounding, however, as an enemy fighter can blow you out of the air if you have no energy.
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When engaging enemy fighters, do it on your terms by climbing first to gain an altitude and energy advantage. Perform boom and zoom attacks by flying over your target, gaining speed by diving towards and taking them out before they can evade, but watch your speed and altitude as the Fw 190's elevators are quite unresponsive and take some time to get used to. You can then climb back quickly at a secure altitude before any opposition tries to catch up. In Arcade, you can go bomber hunting, as you are not limited by ammo count and the Minengeschoß will make short work of the bombers. Finally, you can also perform ground attack on soft targets. Remember to maintain speed when ground-pounding, as an enemy fighter can blow you out of the air if you have no energy.
  
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====Tactics====
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When attacked, you can often just dive away from planes, such as [[Spitfire Mk IIb|Spitfires]] and [[La-5]]s, but you need to be at a decent altitude to gain top speed, so do not be too quick to dive after an enemy if they fly below your plane. Unless you are higher than everybody else, or alone. Just be sure then to have the time to regain the lost altitude. The Fw 190 A-1's superb roll rate also allows for going on a horizontal evasive manoeuvre, allowing to skew the aim of an enemy by rolling back and forth, either forcing them to waste ammo by overshooting or trying to get closer. In a dive, the Fw 190 can pull quite the stunts to either distance the hunter, or even make him lose his own wings.
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<!--Specific methods of play in different situations, label the methods with pros and cons (if possible) based on vehicle's performances (i.e. Me 262 playing as a fighter or anti-bomber)-->
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[[File:ArtImage Fw 190 A-1.png|thumb|300px|Fw 190 A-1 shot down a Spitfire]]
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Watch your ammo count! Like the [[Spitfire Mk IIb]], the Fw 190 A-1 has only 60 rpg. The lower fire rate of the MG FF/M cannons can work in your favour, however. When playing in Arcade, you can go bomber hunting, as the minengeschoß will make short work of the bombers. As you can reload while in the air, bomber hunting is a great tactic.
+
In ground RB, you will most likely not be flying this plane to hit ground targets, because of the lack of external armament. The cannons may be a bit effective against open-topped vehicles like most SPAAGs or some SPGs, but it can be effective at taking out other strike aircraft that could be dive-bombing your ally's tanks on the ground. In general, try to pick different air vehicles to go with your tanks in ground RB.
  
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In the defensive, you can often just dive away from planes, such as [[Spitfire Mk IIb|Spitfires]] and [[La-5]]s, but you need to be at a decent altitude to gain top speed, so do not be to quick to dive after an enemy, if they fly below your plane. Unless you are higher then everybody else, or alone. Just be sure then to have the time to regain the lost altitude.
+
Sharp rolling scissors can be effective. This is a favourable strategy against [[La-5 (Family)|La-5]], [[Yak-9 (Family)|Yak-9]] & [[Spitfire (Family)|Spitfire]] fighters who have, due their low wing loading (and partly wooden wings for the Soviets), less resistance against high G manoeuvres. Again, be sure to regain your energy by a zoom-climb. Just look out while doing so, many pilots die as they do not notice a second enemy aircraft approaching. German proverb:" Wenn Zwei sich streiten, freut sich der Dritte." ~ "When two quarrel, the third will reap the success." Of course, this could also be you.
  
−
In a dive the 190 can, due its short wings, pull quite some ''stunts'' to either lose the hunter, or even make him loose his own wings!
+
;Specific enemies worth noting
  
−
Sharp rolling scissors can be effective. This is favourable strategy against La-5s, [[Yak-9T|Yak]]s & Spitfires who have due their low wingloading (and partly wooden wings for the Russians), less resistance against high G manoeuvres. Again be sure to regain your energy by a zoom-climb. Just look out while doing so, many pilots die as they do not notice a second enemy aircraft approaching. German proverb:''"Wenn Zwei sich streiten, freut sich der Dritte."'' ~ "When two quarrel, the third will reap the success." Of course this could also be you.
+
When flying this plane, a common foe will be Spitfires due to the fact that they can climb higher than you and also outturn you by a significant margin. However, as they have weaker wings, a dive with rolls to change direction will allow you to evade them. If you can manage to hit a Spitfire with your 20 mm cannons, it will most likely lose its wing or engine.
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−
====Specific enemies worth noting====
 
−
<!--Some concerning vehicles to worry about if playing this plane. (i.e. Japanese fighters will out turn you)-->
 
−
When flying this plane, a common foe will be Spitfires due to the fact that they can climb higher than you and also out turn you by a significant margin. However, as they have weaker wings, a dive with rolls to change direction will send them crashing to their deaths.
 
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
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! Oil !! Water !! Type
 
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Not controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
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| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Not controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
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=== Modules ===
 
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{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
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! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! Survivability
 
−
! Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 7 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
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| New 7 mm MGs
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
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| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
|
 
−
| Engine injection
 
−
| Cover
 
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| New 20 mm cannons
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
 
−
While the Focke Wulf retains it dive abilities even without all upgrades, getting to a vantage point to utilize these strength can prove difficult. Therefore unlocks in the category "flight performance" are a must, especially those which grant increased climb rate (e.g. ''Engine'', ''Compressor''). New 20 mm belts are also a good choice, as the "Air targets" belt improves the damage significantly. The 20 mm cannon upgrade is hardly worth though, it tends to run out of ammo before it can overheat. Different story for the 7 mm LMGs though. They should be a tertiary priority.
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Plenty of LMG ammo
+
* Plenty of MG 17 ammo
−
* Great top speed
+
* Great energy retention
−
* Great energy retention & zoom-climbs
+
** Great top speed & zoom-climbs
−
* Great high-speed manoeuvrability
+
* Agile plane
−
* Great roll rate
+
** Great high-speed manoeuvrability
 +
** Great roll rate
 
* Decent steady climb rate
 
* Decent steady climb rate
−
* One of the more agile 190s
+
* Excellent flaps
−
* Cannons are more than enough against all fighters given Air targets belts
+
* Cannons are more than enough against all fighters with Air targets belts
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Low ammo for cannons
+
* Poor stall control
−
* No external payloads for use against ground forces
+
* Poor turn rate
−
* MG FF/M inferior to MG 151/20
+
* Elevator is not too responsive, takes time to get used to it
−
* Less durable than later Fw 190s
+
* Low ammo count for 20 mm cannons
 +
* No external payload for use against ground forces
 +
* MG FF/M cannons have a low damage output
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
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The A-1 series was the first of the Fw 190s to be used in active combat sorties. The previous A-0 was a production test run and saw no front-line fighting. Focke-Wulf completed 102 190A-1s at the Bremen and Marienburg factories between June and October 1941.
 
  
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1942 flight tests of the Fw 190 A-3 proved that the installation of additional equipment could shift the plane's center of gravity. To address the issue, the aircraft had to be lengthened. First examples, designated Fw 190 A-5, saw combat in November 1942. Other modifications were minor and included improved oxygen equipment and a new artificial horizon. All production aircraft were also equipped with the FuG 25a IFF set. The armament remained unchanged.
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===Design===
 +
The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 was a highly advanced aircraft for its time and was given the nickname 'Würger' (Shrike), it was nicknamed "The Butcher Bird" because of its killing ability. The aircraft had speed and durability as its main strengths. The aircraft was all metal with a stressed all-duralumin skin.
  
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=== Combat history ===
+
===Development===
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Over the channel and after the battle of Britain, the Luftwaffe faced harassment in form of "Circus Operations".
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The Fw 190 was conceived in 1937, the first prototype flew in June 1939. The undercarriage was wide-tracked, which gave the Fw 190 much greater stability compared to the Bf 109 and allowed it to take off and land on runways that other German fighters such as the Bf 109 found difficult. The first tests of the aircraft were in 1940 and few problems were discovered. Focke-Wulf completed 102 190 A-1s at the Bremen and Marienburg factories between June and October 1941. The previous A-0 was a production test run and saw no front-line fighting.
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Continues attacks by daylight bombers ([[Blenheim Mk IV|Bristol Blenheim]]), heavily guarded by fighter squadrons flying [[Spitfire Mk Vb/trop|Spitfire V]]. These were not strategical, or even tactical assaults, but distractions, to keep German forces bound to the west, giving the east a little more freedom. They were however ineffective and required only little countermeasures.
 
  
−
The same tactics used by the British six month earlier were now adopted by the Germans.
+
===Combat usage===
 +
The A-1 series was the first of the Fw 190s to be used in active combat sorties. It first went into battle in the summer of 1941. The first combat model had a top speed of 624 km/h (388 mph) from its 1,600 hp engine. The first record of combat was with Spitfires in June 1941 where the Fw 190 performed well, though the pilots complained of a lack of firepower. This criticism led to the A-2 version, which had two wing-mounted synchronised 20 mm cannons and two MG 17 guns. The A-2 version had a top speed of 615 km/h (382 mph). This armament and speed made it a match for the Mk V Spitfire that was in service then.
  
−
One of these squadrons facing this flying circus was Jg26 equipped with Bf 109 F-4 and the new Fw 190 A-1.
+
Over the Channel and after the battle of Britain, the Luftwaffe faced harassment in the form of "Circus Operations".
 +
Continuous attacks by daylight bombers ([[Blenheim Mk IV|Bristol Blenheim]]), heavily guarded by fighter squadrons flying [[Spitfire Mk Vb/trop|Spitfire V]]. These were not strategical, or even tactical assaults, but distractions, to keep German forces bound to the Western front, giving the Eastern front a little more freedom. They were however ineffective and required only little countermeasures.
  
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In July 1941 parts of Jg26 were moved to Le Bourget. Here they were the first to be trained on the Focke Wulf 190 A-1. Following August, the 6. squadron of Gruppe II was equipped entirely with the new fighter and until September the entire group was refitted. Still [[Bf 109 F-4|Bf 109F-4]] remained in service with them and ultimately the Messerschmitt would stick as the units fighter type. They remained at the channel coast until the end of year. With 79 aerial victories, but only 24 total losses, the Fw 190 gained its first prestige.
+
The same tactics used by the British six months earlier were now adopted by the Germans.
 +
 
 +
One of these squadrons facing this flying circus was Jagdgeschwader 26 equipped with Bf 109 F-4 and the new Fw 190 A-1.
 +
 
 +
In July 1941, parts of JG26 were moved to Le Bourget. Here they were the first to be trained on the Focke-Wulf 190 A-1. Following August, the 6. Staffel of Gruppe II was equipped entirely with the new fighter, and until September, the entire group was refitted. Still [[Bf 109 F-4]] remained in service with them and ultimately the Messerschmitt would stick as the unit's fighter type. They remained at the Channel coast until the end of year. With 79 aerial victories, but only 24 total losses, the Fw 190 gained its first prestige.
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
{{Youtube-gallery|vtCKzvbLfNg|'''The Shooting Range #18''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:03 discusses the Fw 190 A.}}
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=fw-190a-1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|E5UfJ6SX6xM|'''Air RB Gameplay: Fw 190 A-1''' - ''Renta352''|JlASS-Qhqt4|'''Using Flaps Properly - Fw 190 A-1''' - ''DEFYN''|pNNDfnXOMSo|'''{{PAGENAME}} Defensive Techniques Tutorial I''' - ''Green Fury''|_xdMVz4-XP8|'''{{PAGENAME}} Defensive Techniques VS Spitfires Tutorial II''' - ''Green Fury''|vtCKzvbLfNg|'''The Shooting Range #18''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:03 discusses the Fw 190 A.}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
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<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
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* [[Fw 190 (Family)]]
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== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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* [https://forum.warthunder.ru/index.php?/topic/92003-fw-190-a-1/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance (Russian Forum)]
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* [[wt:en/news/520--en|[Special] Flight of the "Butcher Bird"]]
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* [[wikipedia:Focke-Wulf_Fw_190|[Wikipedia] Focke-Wulf Fw 190]]
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Focke-Wulf}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Focke-Wulf}}
 
{{Germany fighters}}
 
{{Germany fighters}}

Latest revision as of 15:49, 8 September 2024

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This page is about the German fighter Fw 190 A-1. For other versions, see Fw 190 (Family).
Fw 190 A-1
fw-190a-1.png
GarageImage Fw 190 A-1.jpg
ArtImage2 Fw 190 A-1.png
Fw 190 A-1
Germany flag.png Germany
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.7 3.0 3.3
Class:
Research:9 200 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:16 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 Würger (Shrike) was a single-seat, single-engine monoplane fighter used by the Luftwaffe in WWII. One of the best fighters of the time, it was widely used during the Second World War. A total of over 20,000 were produced, including some 6,000 fighter-bomber variants. The Fw 190 remained in production from 1941 until the end of the war, going through multiple redesigns. The Fw 190 made a name for itself as a true Luftwaffe workhorse and was used in a wide variety of roles, including high-altitude interception (especially the Fw 190 D), escort, fighter-bombing and night fighting. The officially designated nickname "Würger" denotes a kind of carnivorous bird (a shrike), but can also be translated as choker, or strangler. In that regard, it fits the contemporary English designation well, too: "Butcher-bird".

Introduced in Update 1.39, the Fw 190 A-1, as all the planes in this line, are some of the best Boom and Zoomers in the game and should be flown exclusively in this style. The performance at high speeds is excellent, as are their dive and zoom characteristics. Do not ever engage in a turnfight as a "furball" with superior turners such as the A6M2 will end badly. Instead, fight mainly in the vertical. Try to have an altitude, or speed, advantage over your opponents (by climbing to the side at the start of the battle and then enter the highest battle you see). It is still possible to subdue your opponent with the A-1 due to the fantastic roll rate of the "Würger".

Unlike the later 190 line (A-8 and up), the A-1 through A-5 all possess higher turn capabilities than the rest of the line. The A-1 can, in general, out turn less manoeuvrable planes such as the LaGG-3. However, it is still not recommended to get into turnfights, as the A-1 will be placed with many better-manoeuvring fighters like the Spitfire.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 5 500 m652 km/h
Turn time20 s
Max altitude13 228 m
EngineBMW 801 С1
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight6 t

Your control surfaces become noticeably less responsive at low speeds so keep up to speed.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 5,500 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 629 612 13228 21.3 22.1 10.9 10.9 450
Upgraded 676 652 19.2 20.2 18.0 14.1

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
0 310 N/A 700 310 ~14 ~7
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 420 < 300 < 550 > 320
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
468 m 1,512 hp 1,633 hp
Setting 2
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
4,283 m 1,468 hp 1,585 hp

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear310 km/h
  • 57 mm Bulletproof glass in front of pilot.
  • 8 & 12 mm Steel plates on pilot's seat.
  • 3 & 5 mm Steel plates in front of oil cooling system.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB495 → 626 Sl icon.png
RB1 037 → 1 312 Sl icon.png
SB1 538 → 1 947 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications8 400 Rp icon.png
9 390 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost640 Ge icon.png
Crew training4 500 Sl icon.png
Experts16 000 Sl icon.png
Aces180 Ge icon.png
Research Aces190 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
30 / 70 / 150 % Sl icon.png
118 / 118 / 118 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
560 Rp icon.png
Cost:
630 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
560 Rp icon.png
Cost:
630 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
630 Rp icon.png
Cost:
710 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
630 Rp icon.png
Cost:
710 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
mg_belt_pack
Research:
560 Rp icon.png
Cost:
630 Sl icon.png
85 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
mg17_new_gun
Research:
630 Rp icon.png
Cost:
710 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
mgff_belt_pack
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
mgffm_new_gun
Research:
910 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png

While the Focke-Wulf retains it dive abilities even without all upgrades, getting to a vantage point to utilize this strength can prove difficult. Therefore, unlocks in the category "flight performance" are a must, especially those which grant increased climb rate (e.g. "Engine", "Compressor"). New 20 mm belts are also a good choice, as the "Air targets" belt improves the damage significantly. "Stealth" belt for the 20 mm is also favourable due to the composition of the belt, consisting of 3/5 Minengeschoß, and the lack of tracers make aiming easier by not notifying your enemy of your shots, keeping them calm. The 20 mm cannon upgrade is hardly worth though, it tends to run out of ammo before it can overheat, but they can reduce cannon spread. Different story for the 7.92 mm MGs, though. They should be a tertiary priority because of jamming and accuracy.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 12 x 20 mm MG FF/M cannon
Ammunition180 rounds
Fire rate520 shots/min
Weapon 24 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine gun
Ammunition3 800 rounds
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
The 20 mm MG FF/M on the Fw 190 A-1 wings.
Main articles: MG FF/M (20 mm), MG 17 (7.92 mm)

The Fw 190 A-1 is armed with:

The 7.92 mm MG 17 on the Fw 190 A-1 nose and wings.
  • 2 x 20 mm MG FF/M cannons, wing-mounted (90 rpg = 180 total)
  • 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns, nose-mounted (900 rpg = 1,800 total)
  • 2 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine guns, wing-mounted (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)

Unlike the He 112 B-0 with 2 x MG FF cannons, the Fw 190 has 2 x MG FF/M cannons, which are identical except for the re-engineered shells and barrel for the MG FF/M. The "M" variant has access to the deadly Minengeschoß shells (mine shells) that can wreak havoc on most planes at the rank. However, keep in mind the brutally low velocity of the MG FF/M shells. Fire when within 400 m of your quarry for best results.

The 7.92 mm MG 17 MGs are not effective against most planes. However, when equipped with Stealth belts these MGs can turn into powerful anti-ground destroyers. Armoured cars and AAA are great targets for the MGs.

Watch your ammo count: the Fw 190 A-1 has only 90 rounds per gun. The lower rate of fire on the 20 mm MG FF/M cannons can work in your favour, however.

Usage in battles

When engaging enemy fighters, do it on your terms by climbing first to gain an altitude and energy advantage. Perform boom and zoom attacks by flying over your target, gaining speed by diving towards and taking them out before they can evade, but watch your speed and altitude as the Fw 190's elevators are quite unresponsive and take some time to get used to. You can then climb back quickly at a secure altitude before any opposition tries to catch up. In Arcade, you can go bomber hunting, as you are not limited by ammo count and the Minengeschoß will make short work of the bombers. Finally, you can also perform ground attack on soft targets. Remember to maintain speed when ground-pounding, as an enemy fighter can blow you out of the air if you have no energy.

When attacked, you can often just dive away from planes, such as Spitfires and La-5s, but you need to be at a decent altitude to gain top speed, so do not be too quick to dive after an enemy if they fly below your plane. Unless you are higher than everybody else, or alone. Just be sure then to have the time to regain the lost altitude. The Fw 190 A-1's superb roll rate also allows for going on a horizontal evasive manoeuvre, allowing to skew the aim of an enemy by rolling back and forth, either forcing them to waste ammo by overshooting or trying to get closer. In a dive, the Fw 190 can pull quite the stunts to either distance the hunter, or even make him lose his own wings.

Fw 190 A-1 shot down a Spitfire

In ground RB, you will most likely not be flying this plane to hit ground targets, because of the lack of external armament. The cannons may be a bit effective against open-topped vehicles like most SPAAGs or some SPGs, but it can be effective at taking out other strike aircraft that could be dive-bombing your ally's tanks on the ground. In general, try to pick different air vehicles to go with your tanks in ground RB.

Sharp rolling scissors can be effective. This is a favourable strategy against La-5, Yak-9 & Spitfire fighters who have, due their low wing loading (and partly wooden wings for the Soviets), less resistance against high G manoeuvres. Again, be sure to regain your energy by a zoom-climb. Just look out while doing so, many pilots die as they do not notice a second enemy aircraft approaching. German proverb:" Wenn Zwei sich streiten, freut sich der Dritte." ~ "When two quarrel, the third will reap the success." Of course, this could also be you.

Specific enemies worth noting

When flying this plane, a common foe will be Spitfires due to the fact that they can climb higher than you and also outturn you by a significant margin. However, as they have weaker wings, a dive with rolls to change direction will allow you to evade them. If you can manage to hit a Spitfire with your 20 mm cannons, it will most likely lose its wing or engine.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Not controllable Controllable
Auto control available 		Not controllable
Not auto controlled 		Not controllable
Not auto controlled 		Combined Not controllable
2 gears 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Plenty of MG 17 ammo
  • Great energy retention
    • Great top speed & zoom-climbs
  • Agile plane
    • Great high-speed manoeuvrability
    • Great roll rate
  • Decent steady climb rate
  • Excellent flaps
  • Cannons are more than enough against all fighters with Air targets belts

Cons:

  • Poor stall control
  • Poor turn rate
  • Elevator is not too responsive, takes time to get used to it
  • Low ammo count for 20 mm cannons
  • No external payload for use against ground forces
  • MG FF/M cannons have a low damage output

History

Design

The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 was a highly advanced aircraft for its time and was given the nickname 'Würger' (Shrike), it was nicknamed "The Butcher Bird" because of its killing ability. The aircraft had speed and durability as its main strengths. The aircraft was all metal with a stressed all-duralumin skin.

Development

The Fw 190 was conceived in 1937, the first prototype flew in June 1939. The undercarriage was wide-tracked, which gave the Fw 190 much greater stability compared to the Bf 109 and allowed it to take off and land on runways that other German fighters such as the Bf 109 found difficult. The first tests of the aircraft were in 1940 and few problems were discovered. Focke-Wulf completed 102 190 A-1s at the Bremen and Marienburg factories between June and October 1941. The previous A-0 was a production test run and saw no front-line fighting.

Combat usage

The A-1 series was the first of the Fw 190s to be used in active combat sorties. It first went into battle in the summer of 1941. The first combat model had a top speed of 624 km/h (388 mph) from its 1,600 hp engine. The first record of combat was with Spitfires in June 1941 where the Fw 190 performed well, though the pilots complained of a lack of firepower. This criticism led to the A-2 version, which had two wing-mounted synchronised 20 mm cannons and two MG 17 guns. The A-2 version had a top speed of 615 km/h (382 mph). This armament and speed made it a match for the Mk V Spitfire that was in service then.

Over the Channel and after the battle of Britain, the Luftwaffe faced harassment in the form of "Circus Operations". Continuous attacks by daylight bombers (Bristol Blenheim), heavily guarded by fighter squadrons flying Spitfire V. These were not strategical, or even tactical assaults, but distractions, to keep German forces bound to the Western front, giving the Eastern front a little more freedom. They were however ineffective and required only little countermeasures.

The same tactics used by the British six months earlier were now adopted by the Germans.

One of these squadrons facing this flying circus was Jagdgeschwader 26 equipped with Bf 109 F-4 and the new Fw 190 A-1.

In July 1941, parts of JG26 were moved to Le Bourget. Here they were the first to be trained on the Focke-Wulf 190 A-1. Following August, the 6. Staffel of Gruppe II was equipped entirely with the new fighter, and until September, the entire group was refitted. Still Bf 109 F-4 remained in service with them and ultimately the Messerschmitt would stick as the unit's fighter type. They remained at the Channel coast until the end of year. With 79 aerial victories, but only 24 total losses, the Fw 190 gained its first prestige.

Media

Skins
Videos
Air RB Gameplay: Fw 190 A-1 - Renta352
Using Flaps Properly - Fw 190 A-1 - DEFYN
Fw 190 A-1 Defensive Techniques Tutorial I - Green Fury
Fw 190 A-1 Defensive Techniques VS Spitfires Tutorial II - Green Fury
The Shooting Range #18 - Pages of History section at 03:03 discusses the Fw 190 A.

See also

Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links


Focke-Wulf Aircraft Corporation (Focke-Wulf Flugzeugbau Aktiengesellschaft)
Fighters  Fw 190 A-1 · Fw 190 A-4 · Fw 190 A-5 · Fw 190 A-5/U2 · Fw 190 A-5/U12 · Fw 190 A-5/U14 · Fw 190 A-8
  Fw 190 C
  Fw 190 D-9 · Fw 190 D-12 · Fw 190 D-13
  Fw 190 F-8
  Ta 152 C-3* · Ta 152 H-1* · Ta 154 A-1*
Bombers  Fw 189 A-1 · Fw 200 C-1
Export  ▅Fw 190 A-5
Captured  ▃Fw 190 A-8 · ▂Fw 190 D-9
  * In 1944, the Germany Air Ministry changed new fighter aircraft designation to that of the chief designer. Kurt Tank was the chief designer at Focke-Wulf and later aircraft he designed were given the prefix of Ta.

Germany fighters
Heinkel 
He 51  He 51 A-1 · He 51 B-1 · He 51 B-2/H · He 51 C-1 · He 51 C-1/L
He 100  He 100 D-1
He 112  He 112 A-0 · He 112 B-0 · He 112 B-1/U2 · He 112 B-2/U2 · He 112 V-5
Messerschmitt 
Bf 109 (Jumo)  Flegel's Bf 109 A · Bf 109 B-1 · Bf 109 C-1 · Bf 109 C-1
Bf 109 (DB-601)  Bf 109 E-1 · Bf 109 E-3 · Bf 109 E-4 · Bf 109 E-7/U2 · Bf 109 F-1 · Bf 109 F-2 · Bf 109 F-4 · Bf 109 F-4/trop
Bf 109 (DB-605)  Bf 109 G-2/trop · Bf 109 G-2 · Bf 109 G-6 · Bf 109 G-10 · Bf 109 G-14 · Bf 109 K-4
Focke-Wulf 
Fw 190 (early)  Fw 190 A-1 · Fw 190 A-4 · Fw 190 A-5 · Fw 190 A-5 · Fw 190 A-5/U2 · Fw 190 A-5/U14 · Fw 190 A-8 · Fw 190 C
Fw 190 (late)  Fw 190 D-9 · Fw 190 D-12 · Fw 190 D-13
Ta 152  Ta 152 C-3 · Ta 152 H-1
Blohm & Voss 
BV 155  BV 155 B-1
  Captured:
USA  ▀P-47D-16-RE · ▀P-47D
USSR  ▀La-5FN · ▀Yak-1B
Britain  ▀Tempest Mk V
Italy 
CR.42  ▀CR.42 · ▀Marcolin's C.R.42 CN
G.50  ▀G.50 serie 2 · ▀G.50 AS serie 7
C.200  ▀C. 200 serie 3 · ▀C. 200 serie 7
C.202  ▀C. 202
Finland  ▀Hawk H-75A-2

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