Difference between revisions of "Fw 190 A-4"

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{{Specs-Card|code=fw-190a-4}}
 
 
{{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-4
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{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_Fw190A4.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
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{{Break}}
 
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.43]].
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.43]].
  
 
''"Würger"'' is the German nickname of this beast of a plane, or in English, Shrike. It can also be translated as ''slayer'', ''choker'', or ''strangler''. In that regard fits the English designation well too: ''"Butcher-bird"''
 
''"Würger"'' is the German nickname of this beast of a plane, or in English, Shrike. It can also be translated as ''slayer'', ''choker'', or ''strangler''. In that regard fits the English designation well too: ''"Butcher-bird"''
−
 
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Fw 190s are fighters, while this one can load additional payload, it will reduce the planes combat ability. Using it as a fighter-bomber is generally not advised, this would be the duty of the [[Fw 190 F-8|Fw 190 F-8]].
 
−
 
−
The best ammo to use for both cannons is the Air Target belts. They will destroy fighters and bombers faster than tracers. They are different for both cannons, however. For the MG 151's they have a high explosive incendiary shell, armour-piercing shell, and incendiary tracer shell costing 110 silver lions per "per reload". The Mg FF/M's have high explosive incendiary shell, Fragmentation incendiary tracer shell (self-destroying) and armour piercing high explosive shell which cost 40 Sliver Lions "per reload."
 
−
 
−
The best ammunition available for use with machine guns is Universal.  Universal utilizes armour-piercing tracer rounds, armour-piercing rounds, adjustment incendiary rounds, and armour-piercing incendiary rounds. Reloading only costs 9 silver lions "per reload".
 
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
{{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.'' -->
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| 619 || 603 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.4 || 24.0 || 10.6 || 10.6 || rowspan="2" | 420
+
| 622 || 603 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.1 || 23.9 || 10.6 || 10.6 || rowspan="2" | 420
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| 675 || 648 || 20.9 || 22.0 || 18.4 || 14.1
+
| 675 || 648 || 20.9 || 22.0 || 18.5 || 14.1
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < 420 || < 240 || < 550 || > 280
+
| < 420 || < 300 || < 550 || > 320
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
{{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.'' -->
  
 
* 3 mm Steel - Fore engine cowling
 
* 3 mm Steel - Fore engine cowling
 
* 5 mm Steel - Secondary engine cowling
 
* 5 mm Steel - Secondary engine cowling
−
* 6 mm Steel - Lower engine plate
 
−
* 8 mm Steel - Lower cockpit/fuel tank plate
 
 
* 5 mm Steel - Rear fuel tank plate
 
* 5 mm Steel - Rear fuel tank plate
−
* 6 mm Steel - Pilot seat back (first plate)
+
* 8 mm Steel - Pilot seat back
−
* 8 mm Steel - Pilot seat back (second plate)
 
 
* 12 mm Steel - Headrest
 
* 12 mm Steel - Headrest
 
* 57 mm Bulletproof glass
 
* 57 mm Bulletproof glass
 +
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 underneath pilot's feet, 1 below and behind pilot)
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 
{{main|MG 151 (20 mm)|MG FF/M (20 mm)|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}
 
{{main|MG 151 (20 mm)|MG FF/M (20 mm)|MG 17 (7.92 mm)}}
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* 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)
  
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Pilots who are really experienced with the aiming and hitting of the MG151/20 might want to use stealth belts on the MGs and cannons, to avoid being spotted by tracers. Using stealth belts on the machine guns only is also useful for aiming the cannon more easily without the distraction provided by the light machine gun tracers.<br />
+
Pilots who are really experienced with the aiming and hitting of the MG151/20 might want to use stealth belts on the MGs and cannons, to avoid being spotted by tracers. Using stealth belts on the machine guns only is also useful for aiming the cannon more easily without the distraction provided by the light machine gun tracers.
 +
 
 +
The best belts for the 7.92 mm MG 17, depending on your intended target:
 +
 
 +
* Air targets: Default (AP-T/AI/AP-I)
 +
* Ground targets: Tracer (AP-T)
 +
 
 +
The best ammunition available for use with machine guns is the stock belt. The stock belt features just three shell types: Adjustment Incendiary, Armor Piercing Tracer, and Armor Piercing Incendiary, meaning that the machine gun will cycle through the belt quicker, and thus resulting in a higher output of incendiary bullets compared to other belts.
 +
 
 +
The best belts for the 20 mm MG 151, depending on your intended target are:
  
−
:'''7.92mm MG 17'''
+
* Air targets: Air targets (AP-I/HEI/HEI/HEI/HEI/IT) - Consisting of 2/3 Minengeschoß rounds, this belt is very effective against any aircraft.
 +
* Ground targets: Armoured targets (APHE/APHE/APHE/IT)
  
−
*Air Targets: Universal (AP-T/AP/AI/AP-I)
+
The best ammo to use for both cannons is the Air Target belts. They will destroy fighters and bombers faster than tracers. They are different for both cannons, however. For the MG 151s they have a high explosive incendiary shell, armour-piercing shell, and incendiary tracer shell. The MG FF/Ms have high explosive incendiary shell, Fragmentation incendiary tracer shell (self-destroying) and armour piercing high explosive shell.
−
*Ground Targets: Tracer (AP-T)
 
  
−
:'''20mm MG 151'''
+
The best belts for the 20 mm MG FF/M are:
  
−
*Air Targets: Air targets (AP-I/HEI/HEI/HEI/HEI/IT) // Consisting of 2/3 Minengeschoße, this belt is very effective against any aircraft.
+
*Air Targets (FI-T*/HEI/HEI/FI-T*/HEI/HEI/APHE)
−
*Ground Targets: Armored targets (APHE/APHE/APHE/IT)
+
*Stealth (APHE/HEI/HEI/HEI/AP-I)
  
−
:'''20 mm MG FF/M'''
+
The Minengeschoß (HEI) round is the star performer for this gun, so the belts that maximize that round are usually the best.
  
−
*Air targets
+
In the Modifications menu, both cannon are only listed as "Offensive 20 mm"; the MG 151 is on the left and the MG FF/M is on the right.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
The A-4 is a punishing Boom & Zoom fighter. The armament is fantastic, climb rate top par (rivalled by the [[Bf 109 F-4|Bf 109 F-4]]), and dive speed/top-speed is very good. Use this to your advantage. As should be familiar now with the previous Focke-Wulf (and future models), the turning capabilities of this plane are very poor. Dogfighting is not recommended with the Fw 190.
+
The A-4 is a punishing Boom & Zoom fighter. The armament is fantastic and dive speed/top-speed is very good. Use this to your advantage. As should be familiar now with the previous Focke-Wulf (and future models), the turning capabilities of this plane are very poor. Dogfighting is not recommended with the Fw 190.
  
 
This should not discourage you from seizing opportunities, however. A Fw 190 A-4 in a balanced furball can be devastating when acting as a wingman, keeping other fighters from attacking your teammates. These opponents are less focused on evading you, as they are busy trying to attack your allies, giving you the time to line up the shot. As soon as the fight begins to tip in the enemies' favour, it's time for you to make a quick disappearance, as enemies actively trying to get on your tail will almost always succeed.
 
This should not discourage you from seizing opportunities, however. A Fw 190 A-4 in a balanced furball can be devastating when acting as a wingman, keeping other fighters from attacking your teammates. These opponents are less focused on evading you, as they are busy trying to attack your allies, giving you the time to line up the shot. As soon as the fight begins to tip in the enemies' favour, it's time for you to make a quick disappearance, as enemies actively trying to get on your tail will almost always succeed.
  
−
The 190-A4's weapon set is fantastic, too. Four 20 mm cannons are more than enough to rip any plane to shreds and the backup MGs, while not particularly damaging against other fighters at this tier, are great for strafing light ground targets like AA guns. Your firepower is only rivalled by the Aircobras and the twin-engine heavy fighters.
+
The 190-A4's weapon set is fantastic, too. Four 20 mm cannons are more than enough to rip any plane to shreds and the backup MGs, while not particularly damaging against other fighters at this tier, are great for strafing light ground targets like AA guns. Your firepower is only rivalled by the Airacobras and the twin-engine heavy fighters.
  
−
The Fw 190 A-4, as all the planes in this line, are some of the best Boom & Zoomers in the game and should be flown exclusively in this style. But like the [[Fw 190 A-1|Fw 190 A-1]], it is one of the more manoeuvrable Focke-Wulfs. The performance at high speeds is excellent, as is it's dive and climb characteristics. '''Do not ever engage this aircraft in a turn fight''' as this will usually end badly. Instead, fight primarily in the vertical. Always try to have an altitude or speed advantage over your opponents (climb off to the side at the start of the battle and then enter the highest battle you come across).
+
The Fw 190 A-4, as all the planes in this line, are some of the best Boom & Zoomers in the game and should be flown exclusively in this style. But like the [[Fw 190 A-1]], it is one of the more manoeuvrable Focke-Wulfs. The performance at high speeds is excellent, as is it's dive and climb characteristics. Do not ever engage this aircraft in a turn fight as this will usually end badly. Instead, fight primarily in the vertical. Always try to have an altitude or speed advantage over your opponents (climb off to the side at the start of the battle and then enter the highest battle you come across).
  
 
In the defensive, as in the previous plane, you can often just dive away from most planes at high speed. In a dive, the 190 can, due to its short wings, pull quite some stunts to lose your attacker or even cause him to lose his wings! Again, be sure to regain your energy and altitude after a fight.
 
In the defensive, as in the previous plane, you can often just dive away from most planes at high speed. In a dive, the 190 can, due to its short wings, pull quite some stunts to lose your attacker or even cause him to lose his wings! Again, be sure to regain your energy and altitude after a fight.
  
−
The best tactic for this plane is Boom and Zoom tactics, although careful energy-fighting works well too at higher speeds. There are generally two types of Boom & Zoom strategies: '''Tailing Boom & Zoom''' or '''Burst Boom & Zoom''':
+
The best tactic for this plane is Boom and Zoom tactics, although careful energy-fighting works well too at higher speeds. There are generally two types of Boom & Zoom strategies: Tailing Boom & Zoom or Burst Boom & Zoom:
  
 
A '''Tailing Boom & Zoom''' is when the pilot sweeps in behind a target and follows (or "tails") him for a few seconds before breaking away. The benefit of doing this is that the attacker has a longer time to aim and take down the target. This comes at the cost of having less energy to climb back up afterwards, and you are a fairly easy target for other nearby enemies.
 
A '''Tailing Boom & Zoom''' is when the pilot sweeps in behind a target and follows (or "tails") him for a few seconds before breaking away. The benefit of doing this is that the attacker has a longer time to aim and take down the target. This comes at the cost of having less energy to climb back up afterwards, and you are a fairly easy target for other nearby enemies.
Line 160: Line 169:
 
'''Burst Boom & Zoom''' is when a pilot dives down directly onto an enemy, fires a 1-2 second burst at close range, and immediately zooms back up to a safe altitude. The benefits of this tactic, as opposed to the former, is you have far more speed to climb back up and you will be safer from return fire, as you will have spent less time in the enemy's "zone". The problem with this is that you have far less time to shoot, and may not even damage the enemy if your aim is off even by a little.
 
'''Burst Boom & Zoom''' is when a pilot dives down directly onto an enemy, fires a 1-2 second burst at close range, and immediately zooms back up to a safe altitude. The benefits of this tactic, as opposed to the former, is you have far more speed to climb back up and you will be safer from return fire, as you will have spent less time in the enemy's "zone". The problem with this is that you have far less time to shoot, and may not even damage the enemy if your aim is off even by a little.
  
−
====Specific enemies worth noting====
+
===Specific enemies worth noting===
 
<!--Some concerning vehicles to worry about if playing this plane. (i.e. Japanese fighters will out turn you)-->
 
<!--Some concerning vehicles to worry about if playing this plane. (i.e. Japanese fighters will out turn you)-->
−
Some planes, you might see which are very deadly opponents are the: [[Spitfire_F_Mk_IX|Spitfires]], [[Typhoon_Mk_Ib/L|Typhoons]], [[Beaufighter_Mk_21|Beaufighters]], [[P-51D-5|Mustangs]], [[Yak-9U|Yakovlevs]], [[B-17E/L|B-17s]] and the [[Wellington_Mk_Ic/L|Wellingtons]] These planes should not be underestimated, they can all fight this aircraft extremely well.
+
Some planes, you might see which are very deadly opponents are the: [[Spitfire F Mk IX|Spitfires]], [[Typhoon Mk Ib/L|Typhoons]], [[Beaufighter Mk 21|Beaufighters]], [[P-51D-5|Mustangs]], [[Yak-9U|Yakovlevs]], [[B-17E/L|B-17s]], [[XP-50|XP-50s]] and the [[Wellington Mk Ic/L|Wellingtons]] These planes should not be underestimated, they can all fight this aircraft extremely well.
  
 
=== 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 || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Not controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
+
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Not controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! Survivability
 
−
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 7 mm
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
| New 7 mm MGs
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
|
 
−
| Engine injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| New 20 mm cannons
 
−
| New 20 mm cannons
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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* Excellent firepower
 
* Excellent firepower
−
* Excellent roll rate
+
* Excellent roll rate for defensive manoeuvres
−
* Great energy retention
+
* Great energy retention and great acceleration in dives
−
* Great dive performance
 
 
* Good climb rate
 
* Good climb rate
 
* Good top speed
 
* Good top speed
−
* Good supply of cannon ammo
+
* Good supply of cannon ammo for MG 151
−
* Good bomber hunter
 
 
* Engine almost never overheats even on WEP
 
* Engine almost never overheats even on WEP
−
* Simulator battle: Good ''instantaneous'' turn
+
* Excellent flaps
 +
* Good frontal protection for the pilot
 +
* Great turn time with the landing flaps
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
 
* Loses power above 5,000 m (16,400 ft) steadily
 
* Loses power above 5,000 m (16,400 ft) steadily
−
* Stalls quickly in simulator battle
+
* Stalls quickly, and is difficult to control once stalled
 
* Very bad turn rate, as a trade-off for the high dive speed
 
* Very bad turn rate, as a trade-off for the high dive speed
 +
* Terrible stock grind
 +
* Only 90 rounds per gun for MG FF/M
 +
* Sluggish at lower speeds (around <350 km/h)
 +
* Engine is prone to catch fire in head-ons
  
 
== 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).'' -->
 +
 
 +
{{main|Fw_190_A-1#History|l1=History of the Fw 190 A-1}}
 +
 
 +
===Development===
 +
After shortcomings of the A-1 were identified, the Fw 190 was continuously improved. This led to the following variants:
 +
 
 +
* Fw 190 A-2: first introduced in October 1941, it saw the introduction of the improved engine BMW 801 C-2 and two 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons replacing both wing-mounted 7.92 mm MGs,
 +
* Fw 190 A-3: it saw an increase in power to 1,700 PS with the BMW 801 D-2 engine. It retained the same weaponry as the A-2. The FuG 7 HF radio was switched to the FuG 16 VHF radio, giving it a longer range.
 +
* Fw 190 A-4: introduced in July 1942, the A-4 was the same aircraft as the A-3. The main improvement was the water-methanol power boost system "MW 50" for the BMW 801 engine. The system injected for a short period of time a water-methanol mix into the cylinders to raise the engine's power limit. The methanol was intended as anti-freeze. The {{PAGENAME}} went into production in late 1942 and 975 units were produced in 1942 and 1943.
 +
 
 +
===Combat usage===
 +
The {{PAGENAME}} saw combat extensively on all fronts:
 +
 
 +
* It was the first Fw 190 to see combat on the Eastern front in 1942 thanks to its water-methanol power boost system.
 +
* The tropical variant of the A-4 was sent in Libya to support the Afrika Korps in 1942.
 +
* The first unit created to intercept USAF and RAF bomber formations in 1943 was equipped with Fw 190 A-4s.
 +
* Fighter squadrons stationed in France also received the A-4 in 1943 and used its dual role as fighter-bomber to harass English coastal towns.
  
 
== 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 190A.}}
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=fw-190a-4 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|t3xD7JpnHeI|'''Best aircraft for Boom & Zoom''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 2:27 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|F-fGJt6dVoU|'''Realistic: {{PAGENAME}}''' - ''Jengar''|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 190A.|7u73BAg9k9Y|'''{{PAGENAME}}  - Fear No-One''' - ''tx141T''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
<!-- ''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;''
 
* ''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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Related development
 +
 
 +
* [[Fw 190 (Family)]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.ru/index.php?/topic/116454-fw-190-a-4/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance (Russian Forum)]
 +
* [[wikipedia:Focke-Wulf_Fw_190|[Wikipedia] Focke-Wulf Fw 190]]
 +
* [http://www.airvectors.net/avfw190.html <nowiki>[Air Vectors]</nowiki> The Focke-Wulf Fw 190]
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Focke-Wulf}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Focke-Wulf}}
 
{{Germany fighters}}
 
{{Germany fighters}}

Latest revision as of 15:56, 8 September 2024

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the German fighter Fw 190 A-4. For other versions, see Fw 190 (Family).
Fw 190 A-4
fw-190a-4.png
GarageImage Fw 190 A-4.jpg
ArtImage Fw 190 A-4.png
Fw 190 A-4
Germany flag.png Germany
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
4.3 4.0 4.0
Class:
Research:18 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:47 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Fw 190 A-4 is a rank III German fighter with a battle rating of 4.3 (AB) and 4.0 (RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.43.

"Würger" is the German nickname of this beast of a plane, or in English, Shrike. It can also be translated as slayer, choker, or strangler. In that regard fits the English designation well too: "Butcher-bird"

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 5 800 m648 km/h
Turn time22 s
Max altitude12 000 m
EngineBMW 801 D2
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight6 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 5,800 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 622 603 12000 23.1 23.9 10.6 10.6 420
Upgraded 675 648 20.9 22.0 18.5 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 + -
912 310 N/A 700 310 ~13 ~6
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
1,500 m 1,520 hp 1,727 hp
Setting 2
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
5,300 m 1,420 hp 1,613 hp

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural912 km/h
Gear310 km/h
  • 3 mm Steel - Fore engine cowling
  • 5 mm Steel - Secondary engine cowling
  • 5 mm Steel - Rear fuel tank plate
  • 8 mm Steel - Pilot seat back
  • 12 mm Steel - Headrest
  • 57 mm Bulletproof glass
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 underneath pilot's feet, 1 below and behind pilot)

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB855 → 1 098 Sl icon.png
RB1 934 → 2 485 Sl icon.png
SB2 850 → 3 662 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications19 600 Rp icon.png
32 200 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost980 Ge icon.png
Crew training13 000 Sl icon.png
Experts47 000 Sl icon.png
Aces400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces280 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
50 / 130 / 270 % Sl icon.png
136 / 136 / 136 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
1 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 100 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
1 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 100 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 000 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 000 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
1 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 600 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
1 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 600 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
mg_belt_pack
Research:
1 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 100 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
mg17_new_gun
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
mg15120_belt_pack
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 000 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
mgff_belt_pack
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 000 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
mg15120_new_gun
Research:
1 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 600 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
mgffm_new_gun
Research:
1 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 600 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 12 x 20 mm MG 151 cannon
Ammunition500 rounds
Fire rate700 shots/min
Weapon 22 x 20 mm MG FF/M cannon
Ammunition180 rounds
Fire rate520 shots/min
Weapon 32 x 7.92 mm MG 17 machine gun
Ammunition1 800 rounds
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
Main articles: MG 151 (20 mm), MG FF/M (20 mm), MG 17 (7.92 mm)

The Fw 190 A-4 is armed with:

  • 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, wing-mounted (250 rpg = 500 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)

Pilots who are really experienced with the aiming and hitting of the MG151/20 might want to use stealth belts on the MGs and cannons, to avoid being spotted by tracers. Using stealth belts on the machine guns only is also useful for aiming the cannon more easily without the distraction provided by the light machine gun tracers.

The best belts for the 7.92 mm MG 17, depending on your intended target:

  • Air targets: Default (AP-T/AI/AP-I)
  • Ground targets: Tracer (AP-T)

The best ammunition available for use with machine guns is the stock belt. The stock belt features just three shell types: Adjustment Incendiary, Armor Piercing Tracer, and Armor Piercing Incendiary, meaning that the machine gun will cycle through the belt quicker, and thus resulting in a higher output of incendiary bullets compared to other belts.

The best belts for the 20 mm MG 151, depending on your intended target are:

  • Air targets: Air targets (AP-I/HEI/HEI/HEI/HEI/IT) - Consisting of 2/3 Minengeschoß rounds, this belt is very effective against any aircraft.
  • Ground targets: Armoured targets (APHE/APHE/APHE/IT)

The best ammo to use for both cannons is the Air Target belts. They will destroy fighters and bombers faster than tracers. They are different for both cannons, however. For the MG 151s they have a high explosive incendiary shell, armour-piercing shell, and incendiary tracer shell. The MG FF/Ms have high explosive incendiary shell, Fragmentation incendiary tracer shell (self-destroying) and armour piercing high explosive shell.

The best belts for the 20 mm MG FF/M are:

  • Air Targets (FI-T*/HEI/HEI/FI-T*/HEI/HEI/APHE)
  • Stealth (APHE/HEI/HEI/HEI/AP-I)

The Minengeschoß (HEI) round is the star performer for this gun, so the belts that maximize that round are usually the best.

In the Modifications menu, both cannon are only listed as "Offensive 20 mm"; the MG 151 is on the left and the MG FF/M is on the right.

Usage in battles

The A-4 is a punishing Boom & Zoom fighter. The armament is fantastic and dive speed/top-speed is very good. Use this to your advantage. As should be familiar now with the previous Focke-Wulf (and future models), the turning capabilities of this plane are very poor. Dogfighting is not recommended with the Fw 190.

This should not discourage you from seizing opportunities, however. A Fw 190 A-4 in a balanced furball can be devastating when acting as a wingman, keeping other fighters from attacking your teammates. These opponents are less focused on evading you, as they are busy trying to attack your allies, giving you the time to line up the shot. As soon as the fight begins to tip in the enemies' favour, it's time for you to make a quick disappearance, as enemies actively trying to get on your tail will almost always succeed.

The 190-A4's weapon set is fantastic, too. Four 20 mm cannons are more than enough to rip any plane to shreds and the backup MGs, while not particularly damaging against other fighters at this tier, are great for strafing light ground targets like AA guns. Your firepower is only rivalled by the Airacobras and the twin-engine heavy fighters.

The Fw 190 A-4, as all the planes in this line, are some of the best Boom & Zoomers in the game and should be flown exclusively in this style. But like the Fw 190 A-1, it is one of the more manoeuvrable Focke-Wulfs. The performance at high speeds is excellent, as is it's dive and climb characteristics. Do not ever engage this aircraft in a turn fight as this will usually end badly. Instead, fight primarily in the vertical. Always try to have an altitude or speed advantage over your opponents (climb off to the side at the start of the battle and then enter the highest battle you come across).

In the defensive, as in the previous plane, you can often just dive away from most planes at high speed. In a dive, the 190 can, due to its short wings, pull quite some stunts to lose your attacker or even cause him to lose his wings! Again, be sure to regain your energy and altitude after a fight.

The best tactic for this plane is Boom and Zoom tactics, although careful energy-fighting works well too at higher speeds. There are generally two types of Boom & Zoom strategies: Tailing Boom & Zoom or Burst Boom & Zoom:

A Tailing Boom & Zoom is when the pilot sweeps in behind a target and follows (or "tails") him for a few seconds before breaking away. The benefit of doing this is that the attacker has a longer time to aim and take down the target. This comes at the cost of having less energy to climb back up afterwards, and you are a fairly easy target for other nearby enemies.

If you remain behind your target for too long, you will lose too much energy and won't be able to climb back up to safety. Any turning involved makes your situation worse, though remember that smart foes in more agile planes will often try to counter this tactic by baiting you into a turn. Keeping their plane just out of your sights entices you to keep following them for just another second more until they've drained your speed and then you will be a slow, easy target.

Burst Boom & Zoom is when a pilot dives down directly onto an enemy, fires a 1-2 second burst at close range, and immediately zooms back up to a safe altitude. The benefits of this tactic, as opposed to the former, is you have far more speed to climb back up and you will be safer from return fire, as you will have spent less time in the enemy's "zone". The problem with this is that you have far less time to shoot, and may not even damage the enemy if your aim is off even by a little.

Specific enemies worth noting

Some planes, you might see which are very deadly opponents are the: Spitfires, Typhoons, Beaufighters, Mustangs, Yakovlevs, B-17s, XP-50s and the Wellingtons These planes should not be underestimated, they can all fight this aircraft extremely well.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excellent firepower
  • Excellent roll rate for defensive manoeuvres
  • Great energy retention and great acceleration in dives
  • Good climb rate
  • Good top speed
  • Good supply of cannon ammo for MG 151
  • Engine almost never overheats even on WEP
  • Excellent flaps
  • Good frontal protection for the pilot
  • Great turn time with the landing flaps

Cons:

  • Loses power above 5,000 m (16,400 ft) steadily
  • Stalls quickly, and is difficult to control once stalled
  • Very bad turn rate, as a trade-off for the high dive speed
  • Terrible stock grind
  • Only 90 rounds per gun for MG FF/M
  • Sluggish at lower speeds (around <350 km/h)
  • Engine is prone to catch fire in head-ons

History

Main article: History of the Fw 190 A-1

Development

After shortcomings of the A-1 were identified, the Fw 190 was continuously improved. This led to the following variants:

  • Fw 190 A-2: first introduced in October 1941, it saw the introduction of the improved engine BMW 801 C-2 and two 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons replacing both wing-mounted 7.92 mm MGs,
  • Fw 190 A-3: it saw an increase in power to 1,700 PS with the BMW 801 D-2 engine. It retained the same weaponry as the A-2. The FuG 7 HF radio was switched to the FuG 16 VHF radio, giving it a longer range.
  • Fw 190 A-4: introduced in July 1942, the A-4 was the same aircraft as the A-3. The main improvement was the water-methanol power boost system "MW 50" for the BMW 801 engine. The system injected for a short period of time a water-methanol mix into the cylinders to raise the engine's power limit. The methanol was intended as anti-freeze. The Fw 190 A-4 went into production in late 1942 and 975 units were produced in 1942 and 1943.

Combat usage

The Fw 190 A-4 saw combat extensively on all fronts:

  • It was the first Fw 190 to see combat on the Eastern front in 1942 thanks to its water-methanol power boost system.
  • The tropical variant of the A-4 was sent in Libya to support the Afrika Korps in 1942.
  • The first unit created to intercept USAF and RAF bomber formations in 1943 was equipped with Fw 190 A-4s.
  • Fighter squadrons stationed in France also received the A-4 in 1943 and used its dual role as fighter-bomber to harass English coastal towns.

Media

Skins
Videos
Best aircraft for Boom & Zoom discusses the Fw 190 A-4 at 2:27 - War Thunder Official Channel
Realistic: Fw 190 A-4 - Jengar
Fw 190 A-4 Defensive Techniques Tutorial I - Green Fury
Fw 190 A-4 Defensive Techniques VS Spitfires Tutorial II - Green Fury
The Shooting Range #18 - Pages of History section at 03:03 discusses the Fw 190A.
Fw 190 A-4 - Fear No-One - tx141T

See also

Related development

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 (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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