Difference between revisions of "Hunter F.58 (Germany)"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a squadron rank {{Specs|rank}} German jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' with a tail number of J-4020, was one of the Hawker Hunters in Swiss Air Force service and a member of the ''Patrouille Suisse'' ("Swiss Patrol") Aerobatic Team. This aircraft with factory code 41H-691768 was first flown on 4th February 1958, and subsequently joined the Swiss Air Force during the 1960s alongside another 87 F.58 (exported [[Hunter F.6|F.6]]). These jets were further upgraded under the KAWEST (Kampfwertsteigerung; Increased Operational Performance) in 1964 with RWR, an ECM pod, and chaff dispensers,as well as capabilities to launch AIM-9 and AGM-65B, turning it into a multi-role fighter for the Swiss until they were replaced by the [[F-5E]]. The remaining fleet of Hunters with the special livery of the ''Patrouille Suisse'' eventually retired in 1994 and the jet represented in-game is currently displayed at the northern corner of Dübendorf Airfield on the outskirts of Zurich.
 +
 
 +
The jet was introduced in [[Update "Sky Guardians"]] as a squadron vehicle in the German aviation tech tree and introduced Switzerland into the game. Unlike the [[Hunter FGA.9|FGA.9]] or [[Hunter F.6|F.6]] in the British tech tree, the F.58 has access to more advanced missile options including the AIM-9P and AGM-65B, as well as RWR and countermeasures to fend against enemy acquisition. Although it will face more advanced supersonic jets which sometimes have radar-guided missiles or all-aspect AAMs, if picking enemies which has depleted their energy or lacking situation awareness, the ADEN autocannons and missiles will make very short work of them, while the Hunter can fly away from the battlefield with its good energy retention and countermeasures onboard.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 
|-
 
|-
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- -->
+
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X ||✓
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
 +
|-
 +
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs) !! Lead indicator
 +
|-
 +
| {{Cross}} || {{Cross}} || {{Cross}} || {{Tick}} || {{Cross}}
 +
|-
 +
|}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
! !! width="3.5%" | 1 !! width="3.5%" | 2 !! width="3.5%" | 3 !! width="3.5%" | 4 !! width="3.5%" | 5 !! width="3.5%" | 6 !! width="3.5%" | 7 !! width="3.5%" | 8 !! width="3.5%" | 9 !! width="3.5%" | 10 !! width="3.5%" | 11 !! width="3.5%" | 12
+
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11 !! width="4%" | 12
| rowspan="10" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
+
| rowspan="10" width="25%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
 
|-
 
|-
 
! [[Sprengbombe (200 kg)|200 kg Sprengbombe]] bombs
 
! [[Sprengbombe (200 kg)|200 kg Sprengbombe]] bombs
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{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
 
* 2 x 150 gal drop tanks
 
* 2 x 150 gal drop tanks
 
* 2 x Flz Lwf 63/80 missiles
 
* 2 x Flz Lwf 63/80 missiles
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== 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 Hunter F.58 is a transonic aircraft in level flight but can reach supersonic speed in a dive. That means that it is faster than other subsonic aircraft it will face but slower than supersonic aircraft like the [[F-100D]] and the [[MiG-19PT]]. Make sure to maintain speed, as it is most manoeuvrable at higher speeds, and very slow to turn when slow. The energy retention is almost an order of magnitude higher than supersonic aircraft, which bleed speed in sharp turns, this can be both a blessing and a curse, when in a prolonged turning engagement, your energy retention advantage will allow you to pull away from a supersonic at the end of a turn; however, a plane such as the F-100D can use it's worse energy retention to stay on your tail. In many situations, when you have a supersonic on your tail, making them overshoot is very difficult, but if you can, the SRAAMS will make short work of them. When facing subsonic aircraft, simply outrun them with your superior speed, try not to engage in a turnfight with subsonic aircraft, as they are often able to best you in a dogfight, especially at low speeds, where the Hunter really shows its weaknesses. The plane, under most circumstances, does not rip it's wings, even under extended, high G turns; although if you combine a 9-10 G turn and roll or yaw, the plane can rip. Unlike some other planes, you have almost no chance of making it back to the airfield with a broken wing. This Hunter also has access to the Flz Lwf 63/80 air-to-air missiles, which work as [[AIM-9J Sidewinder]].
+
The Hunter F.58 is a transonic aircraft in level flight but can reach supersonic speed in a dive (but rated at exactly M1.0 before structural failure). That means that it is faster than other subsonic aircraft (one of the fastest subsonic jet, just behind the duo "Jump-jet": [[Yak-38M]] and [[AV-8C|US Harriers]]) it will face, but slower than early supersonic aircraft like the [[F-100D]] and the [[MiG-19PT]]. Thanks to the upgrades by Swiss in 1964, the F.58 received more self-defense equipment such as all-aspect RWR and 60 countermeasures onboard - it can be said that the jet is old but not obsolete. The missiles are pretty useful in this battle rating. The optimal range of these missiles is somewhat from 1 km to 2.5 km, and even 3 km when firing from above.
 +
 
 +
==== Air - the Swiss Patrol ====
 +
A thumb of rule for jet fighters is that: always maintain your energy for any situation. Thanks to its excellent design and sufficiently high engine power for such a huge jet, the energy retention is almost an order of magnitude higher than supersonic aircraft, which bleed speed in sharp turns, this can be both a blessing and a curse, when in a prolonged turning engagement, your energy retention advantage will allow you to pull away from a supersonic at the end of a turn; however, a plane such as the F-100D can trade its AoA with its speed to stay on your tail. In many situations, when you have a supersonic on your tail, making them overshoot is very difficult, but if you can, the [[Flz Lwf 63/80]] will make short work of them as finishing them off from afar is always better than being forced into a dogfight (where most subsonic fighters don't have countermeasures). When facing subsonic aircraft, simply outrun them with your superior speed and gain sufficient distance for a return; try not to engage in a turnfight with subsonic aircraft such as MiGs (15 and 17, both Russian and Chinese variants) and late variants of the F-86 Sabre (starting from F-86F-25 which feature slats; while F-86K or Canadair Sabres have better engine to keep up with Hunter), as they are often able to best you in a dogfight, especially at low speeds, where the Hunter really shows its weaknesses - its huge size and worse manoeuvrability at such speed. The plane, under most circumstances, does not rip it's wings, even under extended, high G turns; although if you combine a 9-10 G turn and roll or yaw, the plane can rip. Unlike some other planes, you have almost no chance of making it back to the airfield with a broken wing. This Hunter also has access to the Flz Lwf 63/80 air-to-air missiles, which work as [[AIM-9P Sidewinder]]; for players who have been used to AIM-9E or SRAAM on other Hunters, the 63/80 can make sure careless players who don't check their 6 o'clock meet their end quickly.
 +
 
 +
Another note for the Hunter is that, thanks to the upgrades mentioned before, players can now more confident when facing later supersonic jets with SARH missiles like F-4C or MiG-21S. This will also be the good time to learn about the characteristics of SARH missiles - with up to 60 chaffs available, flying sideways and dive for terrain while dispensing chaffs can make sure enemy SARH missiles will likely uncage from yourself.
  
The Hunter F.58 can be a extremely viable multirole fighter in mixed battles, as it is able to be equipped with low calibre bombs and rockets, but also the Flz Lwf LB 82 keyboard-guided munitions, which are essentially AGM-65 Mavericks.
+
==== Ground - the Lesser Ground-pounder ====
 +
While Swiss purchased the F.58 variant which was based on the F.6 with ground-attack capabilities, likely due to the revised avionics onboard or the need for drop tanks, the payload options is in fact relatively less than his Commonwealth cousins: only the outer-board pylon could carry bombs, unguided rockets and the [[Flz Lwf LB 82]] (AGM-65B) missiles. Although there are alternatives with more payload such as [[F-84F (Germany)|F-84F]] or with more AGMs like [[G.91 R/3 (Germany)|G.91 R/3]], if players insist to bring out Hunter, the varieties of bombs ranging from 200 to 450 kg, as well as unguided rockets and napalms can still make sure it can score some victories at cleared skies (cleared from SPAAs or enemy interceptors); due to the lack of ballistic computer, players will still have to learn the trajectory of different payloads in test flights. As mentioned before, what makes F.58 stand out is the LB 82 missiles, players of USAF tree will be happy to learn that it is the other name of AGM-65B Maverick but under Swiss designation; this also makes it the second-earliest jet to equip the Maverick stand-off missiles (after [[Ayit|Israel's 9.3 Ayit]] with AGM-65A's) against high-threat targets such as Soviet MBTs or SPAA with missile systems onboard. Be sure to utilize the upgraded avionics for better situational awareness from different threats - the speed of the Hunter is still valuable even at its tier with supersonic jets.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
+
<!-- ''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:'''
''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:'''
+
* Sufficient ammo pool to take down multiple targets
 
+
* One of the fastest subsonic jets, retains decent manoeuvrability at higher speeds
*
+
* Good energy retention for energy fights against subsonic or early supersonic jets
 +
* Access to more advanced missiles for both A2A/A2G missions
 +
* Advanced avionics over all its Hunter cousins
 +
** All-aspect RWR for situational awareness
 +
** Flares/chaff to help counter those types of missiles
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
*
+
* Huge target, can be easy prey to enemy gunfire
 +
* Not manoeuvrable below 600 km/h
 +
* Relatively limited payload options due to pylon layouts
 +
* Due to its updated avionics, it will face off against supersonic jets often, which renders the Hunter's subsonic capabilities futile
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
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* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=hunter_f58_switzerland Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=hunter_f58_switzerland Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 +
;Images
 +
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="200">
 +
File:Hunter F.58 (Germany) WTWallpaper001.jpg
 +
File:Hunter F.58 (Germany) WTWallpaper002.jpg
 +
File:Hunter F.58 (Germany) WTWallpaper003.jpg
 +
File:Hunter F.58 (Germany) WTWallpaper004.jpg
 +
File:Hunter F.58 (Germany) WTWallpaper005.jpg
 +
</gallery>
  
 
;Videos
 
;Videos

Latest revision as of 05:28, 1 November 2024

Rank VI | Premium | Golden Eagles
Chinese A-5C Pack
This page is about the squadron jet fighter Hunter F.58 (Germany). For other versions, see Hunter (Family).
◌Hunter F.58
hunter_f58_switzerland.png
GarageImage Hunter F.58 (Germany).jpg
◌Hunter F.58
Research:480 000 Specs-Card-Activity.png
Purchase:660 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The ◌Hunter F.58 with a tail number of J-4020, was one of the Hawker Hunters in Swiss Air Force service and a member of the Patrouille Suisse ("Swiss Patrol") Aerobatic Team. This aircraft with factory code 41H-691768 was first flown on 4th February 1958, and subsequently joined the Swiss Air Force during the 1960s alongside another 87 F.58 (exported F.6). These jets were further upgraded under the KAWEST (Kampfwertsteigerung; Increased Operational Performance) in 1964 with RWR, an ECM pod, and chaff dispensers,as well as capabilities to launch AIM-9 and AGM-65B, turning it into a multi-role fighter for the Swiss until they were replaced by the F-5E. The remaining fleet of Hunters with the special livery of the Patrouille Suisse eventually retired in 1994 and the jet represented in-game is currently displayed at the northern corner of Dübendorf Airfield on the outskirts of Zurich.

The jet was introduced in Update "Sky Guardians" as a squadron vehicle in the German aviation tech tree and introduced Switzerland into the game. Unlike the FGA.9 or F.6 in the British tech tree, the F.58 has access to more advanced missile options including the AIM-9P and AGM-65B, as well as RWR and countermeasures to fend against enemy acquisition. Although it will face more advanced supersonic jets which sometimes have radar-guided missiles or all-aspect AAMs, if picking enemies which has depleted their energy or lacking situation awareness, the ADEN autocannons and missiles will make very short work of them, while the Hunter can fly away from the battlefield with its good energy retention and countermeasures onboard.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Drogue parachute
Reduces braking distance when landing on any runway
Max speed
at 0 m1 148 km/h
Turn time25 s
Max altitude15 500 m
EngineRolls-Royce Avon Mk.207
TypeJet
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight11 t

The Hunter F.58 performs similar to other Hunters, particularly the Hunter FGA.9, as they host the same Rolls-Royce Avon Mk.207 powerplant. As with most other Hunters, the F.58 handles poorly at low speeds, thus, turning and rate fighting is not advised. However, thanks to a decent acceleration, the Hunter can reach speeds exceeding 800 km/h. The Hunter at higher speeds possess quite a decent turn rate, able to maintain 9-10 Gs. Coupled with the excellent energy retention of this aircraft, the Hunter F.58 can be a formidable aircraft in the hands of a competent pilot.

Characteristics Max speed
(km/h at 0 m - sea level)
Max altitude
(metres)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(metres/second)
Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 1,138 1,132 15500 25.5 26.3 53.3 46.2 820
Upgraded 1,158 1,148 24.6 25.0 88.5 69.6

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1,225 450 603 581 465 ~14 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 850 < 600 < 690 -

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full internal fuel)
Rolls-Royce Avon Mk.207 1 6,209 kg 240 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with internal fuel (no weapons load) Max Gross
Weight
Weight (each) Type 3m fuel 13m fuel
1,175 kg Axial-flow turbojet 6,620 kg 7,578 kg 10,216 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
Condition 100% WEP 3m fuel 13m fuel MGW
Stationary 4,272 kgf - 0.65 0.56 0.42
Optimal 5,229 kgf
(1,225 km/h)
- 0.79 0.69 0.51

Survivability and armour

Flares/Chaff
Aircraft countermeasures to distract IR and radar-guided missiles and also AA radar
Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear450 km/h

Like other Hunter variants, the Hunter F.58 has quite a survivable airframe. Being able to withstand hits from medium-calibre cannon fire, even being able to withstand hits to critical components such as the wings, engine, etc. However, like most other aircraft, the Hunter is not a bunker. Large-calibre cannons like ADENs will easily tear your plane apart.

The Hunter, like all other variants, feature only a 64 mm bullet proof glass in front of the pilot, with a 12.7 mm steel plate behind the pilot.

This Hunter, however, unlike any other Hunter variant, features 60 countermeasures for use against guided munitions.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 020 → 4 424 Sl icon.png
RB10 016 → 14 673 Sl icon.png
SB9 367 → 13 722 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications196 000 Rp icon.png
304 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training175 000 Sl icon.png
Experts620 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 600 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 010 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
130 / 380 / 600 % Sl icon.png
226 / 226 / 226 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
460 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
540 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
460 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
540 Ge icon.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
aden_belt_pack
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods napalm fire bomb.png
400 kg FeBb Napalmbombe
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods air to air missile.png
Flz Lwf 63/80
Research:
6 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
460 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
200 kg Sprengbombe
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
460 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
aden_new_gun
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
400 kg Sprengbombe
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
8-cm Flz.-Rakete
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
500 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
540 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
450 kg Sprengbombe 68/70
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
540 Ge icon.png
Mods atgm heli preset.png
Flz Lwf LB 82
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
20 000 Sl icon.png
540 Ge icon.png

Armaments

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

Offensive armament

Main article: ADEN (30 mm)

The Hunter F.58 (Germany) is armed with:

  • 4 x 30 mm ADEN cannons, chin-mounted (150 rpg = 600 total)
  • 60 x countermeasures

Suspended armament

The Hunter F.58 (Germany) can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Hardpoints Hunter F.58 (Germany).png
200 kg Sprengbombe bombs 1, 2* 1, 2*
400 kg Sprengbombe bombs 1 1
450 kg Sprengbombe 68/70 bombs 1 1
FeBb Napalmbombe incendiary bombs 1 1
Flz.-Rakete Oerlikon rockets 2* 2 2 4 4 2 2 2*
Flz Lwf 63/80 missiles 1 1
Flz Lwf LB 82 missiles 1 1
150 gal drop tanks 1 1
Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 500 kg
* Dual bombs on hardpoints 2/11 cannot be equipped in conjunction with rockets on hardpoints 1/12 respectively
Default weapon presets
  • 2 x 150 gal drop tanks
  • 2 x Flz Lwf 63/80 missiles
  • 4 x 200 kg Sprengbombe bombs (800 kg total)
  • 2 x FeBb Napalmbombe incendiary bombs
  • 2 x 400 kg Sprengbombe bombs (800 kg total)
  • 2 x 450 kg Sprengbombe 68/70 bombs (900 kg total)
  • 20 x Flz.-Rakete Oerlikon rockets
  • 2 x Flz Lwf LB 82 missiles

Usage in battles

The Hunter F.58 is a transonic aircraft in level flight but can reach supersonic speed in a dive (but rated at exactly M1.0 before structural failure). That means that it is faster than other subsonic aircraft (one of the fastest subsonic jet, just behind the duo "Jump-jet": Yak-38M and US Harriers) it will face, but slower than early supersonic aircraft like the F-100D and the MiG-19PT. Thanks to the upgrades by Swiss in 1964, the F.58 received more self-defense equipment such as all-aspect RWR and 60 countermeasures onboard - it can be said that the jet is old but not obsolete. The missiles are pretty useful in this battle rating. The optimal range of these missiles is somewhat from 1 km to 2.5 km, and even 3 km when firing from above.

Air - the Swiss Patrol

A thumb of rule for jet fighters is that: always maintain your energy for any situation. Thanks to its excellent design and sufficiently high engine power for such a huge jet, the energy retention is almost an order of magnitude higher than supersonic aircraft, which bleed speed in sharp turns, this can be both a blessing and a curse, when in a prolonged turning engagement, your energy retention advantage will allow you to pull away from a supersonic at the end of a turn; however, a plane such as the F-100D can trade its AoA with its speed to stay on your tail. In many situations, when you have a supersonic on your tail, making them overshoot is very difficult, but if you can, the Flz Lwf 63/80 will make short work of them as finishing them off from afar is always better than being forced into a dogfight (where most subsonic fighters don't have countermeasures). When facing subsonic aircraft, simply outrun them with your superior speed and gain sufficient distance for a return; try not to engage in a turnfight with subsonic aircraft such as MiGs (15 and 17, both Russian and Chinese variants) and late variants of the F-86 Sabre (starting from F-86F-25 which feature slats; while F-86K or Canadair Sabres have better engine to keep up with Hunter), as they are often able to best you in a dogfight, especially at low speeds, where the Hunter really shows its weaknesses - its huge size and worse manoeuvrability at such speed. The plane, under most circumstances, does not rip it's wings, even under extended, high G turns; although if you combine a 9-10 G turn and roll or yaw, the plane can rip. Unlike some other planes, you have almost no chance of making it back to the airfield with a broken wing. This Hunter also has access to the Flz Lwf 63/80 air-to-air missiles, which work as AIM-9P Sidewinder; for players who have been used to AIM-9E or SRAAM on other Hunters, the 63/80 can make sure careless players who don't check their 6 o'clock meet their end quickly.

Another note for the Hunter is that, thanks to the upgrades mentioned before, players can now more confident when facing later supersonic jets with SARH missiles like F-4C or MiG-21S. This will also be the good time to learn about the characteristics of SARH missiles - with up to 60 chaffs available, flying sideways and dive for terrain while dispensing chaffs can make sure enemy SARH missiles will likely uncage from yourself.

Ground - the Lesser Ground-pounder

While Swiss purchased the F.58 variant which was based on the F.6 with ground-attack capabilities, likely due to the revised avionics onboard or the need for drop tanks, the payload options is in fact relatively less than his Commonwealth cousins: only the outer-board pylon could carry bombs, unguided rockets and the Flz Lwf LB 82 (AGM-65B) missiles. Although there are alternatives with more payload such as F-84F or with more AGMs like G.91 R/3, if players insist to bring out Hunter, the varieties of bombs ranging from 200 to 450 kg, as well as unguided rockets and napalms can still make sure it can score some victories at cleared skies (cleared from SPAAs or enemy interceptors); due to the lack of ballistic computer, players will still have to learn the trajectory of different payloads in test flights. As mentioned before, what makes F.58 stand out is the LB 82 missiles, players of USAF tree will be happy to learn that it is the other name of AGM-65B Maverick but under Swiss designation; this also makes it the second-earliest jet to equip the Maverick stand-off missiles (after Israel's 9.3 Ayit with AGM-65A's) against high-threat targets such as Soviet MBTs or SPAA with missile systems onboard. Be sure to utilize the upgraded avionics for better situational awareness from different threats - the speed of the Hunter is still valuable even at its tier with supersonic jets.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Sufficient ammo pool to take down multiple targets
  • One of the fastest subsonic jets, retains decent manoeuvrability at higher speeds
  • Good energy retention for energy fights against subsonic or early supersonic jets
  • Access to more advanced missiles for both A2A/A2G missions
  • Advanced avionics over all its Hunter cousins
    • All-aspect RWR for situational awareness
    • Flares/chaff to help counter those types of missiles

Cons:

  • Huge target, can be easy prey to enemy gunfire
  • Not manoeuvrable below 600 km/h
  • Relatively limited payload options due to pylon layouts
  • Due to its updated avionics, it will face off against supersonic jets often, which renders the Hunter's subsonic capabilities futile

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: https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <ref></ref>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <references />. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under === In-game description ===, also if applicable).

Media

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See also

Related development

External links


Hawker Aircraft Limited
Biplane fighters 
Fury  Fury Mk I · Fury Mk II
Nimrod  Nimrod Mk I · Nimrod Mk II
Scout plane  Osprey Mk IV
Piston fighters 
Hurricane  Hurricane Mk I/L · Hurricane Mk.I/L FAA M · Sea Hurricane Mk IB · Sea Hurricane Mk IC · Hurricane Mk IIB/Trop · Hurricane Mk IV
Typhoon  Typhoon Mk Ia · Typhoon Mk Ib · Typhoon Mk Ib/L
Tempest  Tempest Mk V · Tempest Mk V (Vickers P) · Tempest Mk II
Fury  Sea Fury FB 11
Jet fighters 
Hunter  Hunter F.1 · Hunter F.6 · Hunter FGA.9
Sea Hawk  Sea Hawk FGA.6
Harrier  Harrier GR.1 · Harrier GR.3
Export  ▄Hurricane Mk I/L · ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ◘Sea Fury FB 51
  ◘Sea Hawk Mk.50 · ◄Sea Hawk Mk.100 · ◘Hunter F.6 · ◌Hunter F.58 · J34 · AV-8A · AV-8C · ▄AV-8S
Captured  ▀Tempest Mk V
See Also  Fokker

Germany jet aircraft
Germany flag.png  Luftwaffe
He 162  He 162 A-1 · He 162 A-2
Me 163  Me 163 B · Me 163 B-0
Ho 229  Ho 229 V3
Ar 234  Ar 234 B-2 · Ar 234 C-3
Me 262  Me 262 A-1a · Me 262 A-1a/Jabo · Me 262 A-1a/U1 · Me 262 A-1/U4 · Me 262 A-2a
  Me 262 C-1a · Me 262 C-2b
GDR flag.png  LSK
Fighters  ◊MiG-15bis · ◊Lim-5P · ◊MiG-19S
  ◊MiG-21MF · ◊MiG-21bis-SAU · ◊MiG-21 "Lazur-M"
  ◊MiG-29
Attackers  ◊MiG-23BN · ◊MiG-23MF · ◊MiG-23MLA
  ◊Su-22UM3K · ◊Su-22M4
  ◊IL-28
FRG flag.png  Luftwaffe
F-84  ◄F-84F
F-86  ◄CL-13A Mk 5 · ◄CL-13B Mk.6 · ◄F-86K
F-104  ◄F-104G
F-4  ◄F-4F Early · ◄F-4F · ◄F-4F KWS LV
G.91  ◄G.91 R/3 · ◄G.91 R/4
Tornado  ◄Tornado IDS WTD61 · ◄Tornado IDS MFG · ◄Tornado IDS ASSTA1
Other  Alpha Jet A · ◄Sea Hawk Mk.100
Ex-LSK  ◄MiG-21 SPS-K · ◄MiG-29G · ◄Su-22M4 WTD61
Switzerland flag.png  Swiss Air Force
  ◌Hunter F.58 · FFA P-16

Squadron aircraft
USA  A-4E Early
Germany  Me 262 A-1a/U1 · ◌Hunter F.58
USSR  Su-22M3
Britain  Firecrest · Sea Harrier FRS.1
Japan  ▄F-5E FCU
China  JF-17