Difference between revisions of "H8K2"

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{{Specs-Card|code=h8k2}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
−
|about = aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
|about = Japanese bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
|usage = the premium H8K plane
+
|usage = the premium version
 
|link = H8K3
 
|link = H8K3
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=h8k2
 +
|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.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' was a variant of the Kawanishi H8K family of flying boats used by the Imperial Japanese Navy. The H8K was remarkably versatile and called "the most outstanding water-based combat aircraft of the Second World War" by aviation historian René Francillon. The H8K2 is a variant of the H8K, employing Mitsubishi MK4Q Kasei 22 engines and an improved tail gun turret. It was developed in 1943 and also fielded ASV (Air-Surface Vessel) radars on its last batch of the total 112 produced.
−
{{break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a Rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese flying boat/heavy bomber {{Battle-rating}}. This aircraft was introduced in [[Update 1.57 "Battle March"]].
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.57 "Battle March"]], the H8K2 is a rather capable bomber for its BR. It can be compared to the German BV 238, but of course it has its differences. The H8K2 is heavy and slow, but since it is equipped with floats, it can be used in Naval Battles more effectively than other bombers. For regular battles, the H8K2 is better used as a heavy bomber, fielding a powerful defensive armament in the form of 20 mm cannons and 7.7 mm HMGs. Its large size, however, makes it an easy target for AA or interceptors. In naval battles, it can be armed with two torpedoes and, thanks to the floats, land and take off from water, allowing it to capture points, although this is extremely risky.
  
 
== 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"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
−
|-
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
−
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
−
|-
 
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,000 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,000 m)
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
−
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB
+
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
|-
 
−
| 454 || 445 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || ??.? || 34.8 || ??.? || 3.5 || ???
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,000 m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB
+
! Stock
−
! RB
+
| 454 || 445 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 33.9 || 34.8 || 3.5 || 3.5 || rowspan="2" | 750
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ? || ? || {{Specs|ceiling}} || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ???
+
! Upgraded
 +
| 500 || 476 || 32.1 || 33.0 || 10.5 || 6.5
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
====Details====
+
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flap
+
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
−
! Take-off flap
 
−
! Landing flap
 
−
! Air brakes
 
−
! Arrestor gear
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| X || X || X || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
+
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | Limits
+
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
+
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
−
! +
+
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
−
! -
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|разрушение|конструкции}} || {{Specs|разрушение|шасси}} || ??? || ~?? || ~?
+
| 560 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 402 || 379 || 260 || ~4 || ~3
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 88: Line 66:
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
+
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
+
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
−
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < ??? || < ??? || < ??? || > ???
+
| < 360 || < 360 || < 360 || > 341
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
|-
+
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
−
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| ?,??? m || ??? hp || ?,??? hp
 
−
|-
 
−
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 
−
|- -->
 
−
|}
 
  
−
=== Survivability and armour ===
+
* 20mm steel plates protecting rear gunner
−
<!--''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.''-->
+
* 5mm steel behind pilots
 +
* 5mm steel protecting dorsal gunner
 +
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (6 in the mid-fuselage, 1 in each wingroot, 3 in each wing)
  
−
* 20mm armour plates protecting rear gunner
+
=== Modifications and economy ===
−
* 5mm protecting pilot from rear
+
{{Specs-Economy}}
−
* 5mm protecting dorsal gunner
 
−
* 5mm protecting hull fuel tanks
 
−
* All fuel tanks are self-sealing
 
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
<!--''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.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
−
{{main|Type 91 Mod.2}}
+
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)|Navy_Type_98_Number_25_(250_kg)|Navy Type 99 Number 80 AP (800_kg)|Navy_Type_Number_80_Model_1_(800_kg)|l1=Type 97 No.6 (60 kg)|l2=Type 98 No.25 (250 kg)|l3=Type 99 No.80 AP (800 kg)|l4=Type No.80 Mod.1 (800 kg)}}
+
{{main|Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)|Navy Type 98 Number 25 (250 kg)|Number 80 Mod. 1 (800 kg)|Navy Type 99 Number 80 AP (800 kg)|Type 91 Model 2 (835 kg)}}
  
−
* 2 x Type 91 Mod.2 torpedoes
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
−
* 16 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 bombs
+
 
−
* 8 x 250 kg Navy Type 98 Number 25 bombs
+
* 2 x 835 kg Type 91 Model 2 torpedoes
−
* 2 x 800 kg Navy Type 99 Number 80 AP bombs
+
* 16 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 bombs (960 kg total)
−
* 2 x 800 kg Navy Type Number 80 Model 1 bombs
+
* 8 x 250 kg Navy Type 98 Number 25 bombs (2,000 kg total)
 +
* 2 x 800 kg Navy Type 99 Number 80 AP bombs (1,600 kg total)
 +
* 2 x 800 kg Number 80 Mod. 1 bombs (1,600 kg total)
  
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== Defensive armament ===
−
{{main|Type 99 Model 1 navy (20 mm)|Type 92 navy (7.7 mm)|l1=Type 99 Mod.1 (20 mm)|l2=Type 92 (7.7 mm)}}
+
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
 +
<!-- ''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|Type 99 Model 1 (20 mm)|Type 92 (7.7 mm)}}
  
−
''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.''
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 +
 
 +
* 1 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon, nose turret (270 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon, dorsal turret (450 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon, 2 x beam turrets (270 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon, tail turret (540 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 92 machine gun, 2 x cockpit turrets (582 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 92 machine gun, 2 x wing root turrets (582 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 92 machine gun, ventral turret (582 rpg)
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles 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 H8K2 can be thought of as a Japanese version of the German [[BV 238]], and plays similarly. However, there are some key differences between the two aircraft. The H8K2 can be used in both Naval battles, and Air battles, though there are some key limitations. The aircraft has a strong defensive armament suite of ten guns (five 20 mm cannons and five 7.7 mm machine guns), and can also carry a pair of torpedoes. However, it is a very large aircraft, and is easily shot down by enemy anti-aircraft fire. In general, the aircraft should avoid close-in, frontline combat, and instead be used as a heavy bomber/support aircraft.
  
−
===Manual Engine Control===
+
The first playstyle for this aircraft would be a heavy bomber in RB. The aircraft benefits from airspawn, meaning that it is much less vulnerable from interception. However, there is one key limitation to this role - the H8K2's tiny payload. The aircraft can only carry a maximum of 1,600 kg of bombs, in two 800 kg bombs. This effectively limits the aircraft to destroying a single base, which doesn't yield great bonuses. The 800 kg bombs are also ineffective against ground targets, as they drop together. This means that the only viable option against ground targets are the 60 kg bombs. However, these are also rather ineffective due to their tiny size and low explosive mass.
 +
 
 +
The second, and more interesting playstyle would be in Naval RB. The aircraft is a floatplane, meaning that it can be used to cap bases. As well, the aircraft can carry two torpedoes, which are very effective against larger vessels. Thus, the aircraft could be used as a torpedo-bomber, staying low and attacking enemies with torpedoes from a distance. However, do not approach to close to enemy naval vessels, as the H8K is massive and an easy target for enemy AAA.
 +
 
 +
When being attacked, one excellent option is the H8K's defensive armament. The 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannons are essentially upgraded MG FF cannons, and can do extensive damage to attacking fighters. However, take note that the aircraft has very limited protection from the underside, similar to other flying boats. Try to bait attacking fighters to your six (and slightly to the right or left), so that you can engage them with the tail, dorsal and beam turrets.
 +
 
 +
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" |Mixer
+
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
−
! rowspan="2" |Pitch
+
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
−
! colspan="3" |Radiator
+
! colspan="3" | Radiator
−
! rowspan="2" |Supercharger
+
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
−
! rowspan="2" |Turbocharger
+
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
−
|-
 
−
! Oil
 
−
! Water
 
−
! Type
 
−
|-
 
−
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
===Modules===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 
−
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage Repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| II
+
! Oil !! Water !! Type
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
|
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| III
+
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
−
| Wings Repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|  
 
−
|  
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
|  
 
−
| Engine Injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
|  
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--''Summarize 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".''-->
+
<!-- ''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:'''
  
−
* Excellent speed for the rank
+
* '''H'''8K for Flying boat:
−
* Good armament spread and damage (when they hit), including limited coverage under the plane
+
** Bomber spawn
−
* Favourable matchmaking; always on Axis team
+
** Landing floats
−
* Incredible climb rate
+
*** Can capture points in Naval
−
* (RB) Long Range Bomber spawn, putting it at usually around 4,500m on spawn
+
** Excellent combined defensive armament
−
* Well armoured even for a non-Japanese bomber, with armoured pilot, gunners and self-sealing tanks
+
** 2 x [[Type 91 Model 3 (850 kg)|Type 91 Aerial Torpedo]]
−
* Excellent RP and SL mods for rank 1, especially as bombs are incredibly cheap
+
*** Torpedo has the highest drop speed in the game at {{Annotation|580 km/h|350 mph}} and is one of the most feared torpedoes in Naval Battles
 +
** 16 x [[Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg)|Type 97 No.6 Land Bomb (60 kg)]]
 +
*** Gets 2 x bomb racks of 8 x 60 kg bombs which can be used to hit multiple targets
 +
** 2 x [[Navy Type Number 80 Model 1 (800 kg)|No.80 Land Bomb (800 kg)]]
 +
*** Heaviest bomb Japanese Navy can offer
 +
* '''H8K''' specific:
 +
** Decent defensive armament for its rank: [[Type 99 Model 1 (20 mm)|20 mm Type 99 Model 1 Cannon]]
 +
** Quite fast for its size and rank
 +
** Incredible climb rate
 +
** Decently survivable with armour and self-sealing tanks
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Awful bomb load; 780kg TNT equivalent with largest load, with both wing bombs dropping together
+
* '''H'''8K for Flying boat:
−
* Guns are unreliable; cannons are the weak 20 mm Type 99 mod.1's, machine guns are single 7.7 mms, long reload on the cannons
+
** Huge target
−
* Landing is risky due to lack of land-suitable gear; the H8K must land on its hull
+
** Lack of land-suitable gear
−
* High research cost of 40,000RP (more than the B7A and Ki-49 at Rank 3!)
+
*** Very unreliable to land on regular run-ways
−
* Huge target
+
** Bombs drop in series
 +
* Common Navy plane construction:
 +
** Poor defensive armament: [[Type 99 Model 1 (20 mm)|20 mm Type 99 Model 1 Cannon]]
 +
*** Very low muzzle velocity
 +
** Poor defensive armament: [[Type 92 (7.7 mm)|7.7 mm Type 92 MG]]
  
 
== 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 big, 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></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== Encyclopedia Info ===</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).'' -->
 +
 
 +
Widely recognized as the best maritime combat aircraft of WWII, the H8K2 was the main production model of the H8K series of bombers, making up 112 of the 167 total H8Ks of all variants. In 1938, just as its predecessor, the H6K, was entering service, the Imperial Navy ordered the development of a larger aircraft with longer range suited for solo bombing and patrol missions. The resulting H8K flying boats, entering service in February 1942, performed well until the end of the war, and were respected by allied pilots for their fearsome defensive armament. After the war, an H8K2 (one of only four which survived the war) was captured by American forces, and was eventually returned to Japan in 1979, where it remains on display to this day.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=h8k2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 244: Line 196:
  
 
== 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;''
 +
* ''other literature.'' -->
  
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
+
* [[wt:en/devblog/current/880|[Devblog] The Aerial Cruiser of Japan: H8K2 and H8K3]]
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
+
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/307703-kawanishi-h8k2/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 +
{{AirManufacturer Kawanishi}}
 
{{Japan bombers}}
 
{{Japan bombers}}

Latest revision as of 15:01, 9 October 2024

Rank VI | Premium | Golden Eagles
Chinese A-5C Pack
This page is about the Japanese bomber H8K2. For the premium version, see H8K3.
H8K2
h8k2.png
GarageImage H8K2.jpg
ArtImage H8K2.png
H8K2
Japan flag.png Japan
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.3 3.7 3.7
Class:
Research:9 200 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:16 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The H8K2 was a variant of the Kawanishi H8K family of flying boats used by the Imperial Japanese Navy. The H8K was remarkably versatile and called "the most outstanding water-based combat aircraft of the Second World War" by aviation historian René Francillon. The H8K2 is a variant of the H8K, employing Mitsubishi MK4Q Kasei 22 engines and an improved tail gun turret. It was developed in 1943 and also fielded ASV (Air-Surface Vessel) radars on its last batch of the total 112 produced.

Introduced in Update 1.57 "Battle March", the H8K2 is a rather capable bomber for its BR. It can be compared to the German BV 238, but of course it has its differences. The H8K2 is heavy and slow, but since it is equipped with floats, it can be used in Naval Battles more effectively than other bombers. For regular battles, the H8K2 is better used as a heavy bomber, fielding a powerful defensive armament in the form of 20 mm cannons and 7.7 mm HMGs. Its large size, however, makes it an easy target for AA or interceptors. In naval battles, it can be armed with two torpedoes and, thanks to the floats, land and take off from water, allowing it to capture points, although this is extremely risky.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 6 000 m476 km/h
Turn time33 s
Max altitude9 500 m
Engine4 х Mitsubishi Kasei 22
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight33 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 6,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 454 445 9500 33.9 34.8 3.5 3.5 750
Upgraded 500 476 32.1 33.0 10.5 6.5

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
560 450 402 379 260 ~4 ~3
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 360 < 360 < 360 > 341

Survivability and armour

Crew9 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear450 km/h
  • 20mm steel plates protecting rear gunner
  • 5mm steel behind pilots
  • 5mm steel protecting dorsal gunner
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks (6 in the mid-fuselage, 1 in each wingroot, 3 in each wing)

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB648 → 820 Sl icon.png
RB1 113 → 1 409 Sl icon.png
SB2 062 → 2 610 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications8 390 Rp icon.png
9 460 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
40 / 80 / 140 % Sl icon.png
118 / 118 / 118 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
420 Rp icon.png
Cost:
470 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
420 Rp icon.png
Cost:
470 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
630 Rp icon.png
Cost:
710 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
680 Rp icon.png
Cost:
770 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
630 Rp icon.png
Cost:
710 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
680 Rp icon.png
Cost:
770 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type92_turret_belt_pack
Research:
420 Rp icon.png
Cost:
470 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
12 in (mod30)
Research:
420 Rp icon.png
Cost:
470 Sl icon.png
75 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 2.png
Mods turret gun.png
type92_turret_new_gun
Research:
630 Rp icon.png
Cost:
710 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type99_turret_belt_pack
Research:
700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
790 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
type99_turret_new_gun
Research:
680 Rp icon.png
Cost:
770 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
14 in (mod35)
Research:
680 Rp icon.png
Cost:
770 Sl icon.png
120 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Suspended armament

List of setups (5)
Setup 12 x Type 91 Model 2 torpedo (835 kg)
Setup 216 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 ground bomb
Setup 38 x 250 kg Navy Type 98 Number 25 bomb
Setup 42 x 800 kg Navy Type 99 Number 80 AP bomb
Setup 52 x 800 kg Number 80 Mod. 1 bomb
Main articles: Navy Type 97 Number 6 (60 kg), Navy Type 98 Number 25 (250 kg), Number 80 Mod. 1 (800 kg), Navy Type 99 Number 80 AP (800 kg), Type 91 Model 2 (835 kg)

The H8K2 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 2 x 835 kg Type 91 Model 2 torpedoes
  • 16 x 60 kg Navy Type 97 Number 6 bombs (960 kg total)
  • 8 x 250 kg Navy Type 98 Number 25 bombs (2,000 kg total)
  • 2 x 800 kg Navy Type 99 Number 80 AP bombs (1,600 kg total)
  • 2 x 800 kg Number 80 Mod. 1 bombs (1,600 kg total)

Defensive armament

3 х Turret20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon
Ammunition270 rounds
Fire rate517 shots/min
Turret20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon
Ammunition450 rounds
Fire rate517 shots/min
Turret20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon
Ammunition540 rounds
Fire rate517 shots/min
5 х Turret7.7 mm Type 92 machine gun
Ammunition582 rounds
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main articles: Type 99 Model 1 (20 mm), Type 92 (7.7 mm)

The H8K2 is defended by:

  • 1 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon, nose turret (270 rpg)
  • 1 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon, dorsal turret (450 rpg)
  • 1 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon, 2 x beam turrets (270 rpg)
  • 1 x 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannon, tail turret (540 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.7 mm Type 92 machine gun, 2 x cockpit turrets (582 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.7 mm Type 92 machine gun, 2 x wing root turrets (582 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.7 mm Type 92 machine gun, ventral turret (582 rpg)

Usage in battles

The H8K2 can be thought of as a Japanese version of the German BV 238, and plays similarly. However, there are some key differences between the two aircraft. The H8K2 can be used in both Naval battles, and Air battles, though there are some key limitations. The aircraft has a strong defensive armament suite of ten guns (five 20 mm cannons and five 7.7 mm machine guns), and can also carry a pair of torpedoes. However, it is a very large aircraft, and is easily shot down by enemy anti-aircraft fire. In general, the aircraft should avoid close-in, frontline combat, and instead be used as a heavy bomber/support aircraft.

The first playstyle for this aircraft would be a heavy bomber in RB. The aircraft benefits from airspawn, meaning that it is much less vulnerable from interception. However, there is one key limitation to this role - the H8K2's tiny payload. The aircraft can only carry a maximum of 1,600 kg of bombs, in two 800 kg bombs. This effectively limits the aircraft to destroying a single base, which doesn't yield great bonuses. The 800 kg bombs are also ineffective against ground targets, as they drop together. This means that the only viable option against ground targets are the 60 kg bombs. However, these are also rather ineffective due to their tiny size and low explosive mass.

The second, and more interesting playstyle would be in Naval RB. The aircraft is a floatplane, meaning that it can be used to cap bases. As well, the aircraft can carry two torpedoes, which are very effective against larger vessels. Thus, the aircraft could be used as a torpedo-bomber, staying low and attacking enemies with torpedoes from a distance. However, do not approach to close to enemy naval vessels, as the H8K is massive and an easy target for enemy AAA.

When being attacked, one excellent option is the H8K's defensive armament. The 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 cannons are essentially upgraded MG FF cannons, and can do extensive damage to attacking fighters. However, take note that the aircraft has very limited protection from the underside, similar to other flying boats. Try to bait attacking fighters to your six (and slightly to the right or left), so that you can engage them with the tail, dorsal and beam turrets.

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
2 gears 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • H8K for Flying boat:
    • Bomber spawn
    • Landing floats
      • Can capture points in Naval
    • Excellent combined defensive armament
    • 2 x Type 91 Aerial Torpedo
      • Torpedo has the highest drop speed in the game at 580 km/h and is one of the most feared torpedoes in Naval Battles
    • 16 x Type 97 No.6 Land Bomb (60 kg)
      • Gets 2 x bomb racks of 8 x 60 kg bombs which can be used to hit multiple targets
    • 2 x No.80 Land Bomb (800 kg)
      • Heaviest bomb Japanese Navy can offer
  • H8K specific:
    • Decent defensive armament for its rank: 20 mm Type 99 Model 1 Cannon
    • Quite fast for its size and rank
    • Incredible climb rate
    • Decently survivable with armour and self-sealing tanks

Cons:

  • H8K for Flying boat:
    • Huge target
    • Lack of land-suitable gear
      • Very unreliable to land on regular run-ways
    • Bombs drop in series
  • Common Navy plane construction:

History

Widely recognized as the best maritime combat aircraft of WWII, the H8K2 was the main production model of the H8K series of bombers, making up 112 of the 167 total H8Ks of all variants. In 1938, just as its predecessor, the H6K, was entering service, the Imperial Navy ordered the development of a larger aircraft with longer range suited for solo bombing and patrol missions. The resulting H8K flying boats, entering service in February 1942, performed well until the end of the war, and were respected by allied pilots for their fearsome defensive armament. After the war, an H8K2 (one of only four which survived the war) was captured by American forces, and was eventually returned to Japan in 1979, where it remains on display to this day.

Media

Skins

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


Kawanishi Aircraft Company (川西航空機)
Fighters  J6K1
N1K  N1K1-Ja · N1K2-J · N1K2-Ja
Bombers  H6K4 · H8K2 · H8K3
Hydroplane  N1K1 · E7K2

Japan bombers
Navy 
Carrier-based attack bomber 
B5N  B5N2
B6N  B6N1 · B6N2 · B6N2a
B7A  B7A2 · B7A2 (Homare 23)
Carrier-based dive bomber 
D3A  D3A1
D4Y  D4Y1 · D4Y2 · D4Y3 Ko
Shipboard Observation seaplane 
F1M  F1M2
Land-based Attack bomber 
G4M  G4M1
G5N  G5N1
G8N  G8N1
Flying boat 
H6K  H6K4
H8K  H8K2 · H8K3
Land-based Bomber 
P1Y  P1Y1
Army 
Light  Ki-32
  Ki-48-II otsu
Heavy  Ki-21-Ia · Ki-21-I hei
  Ki-49-I · Ki-49-IIa · Ki-49-IIb · Ki-49-IIb/L
  Ki-67-I Ko · Ki-67-I otsu
Other countries  ▅B-17E

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