Difference between revisions of "Vilkas"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle 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 the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle 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 an armoured fighting vehicle used by Lithuania, which was developed in collaboration with ARTEC GmbH. The vehicle's roots trace back to the German-Dutch "Boxer AFV" program, showcasing a joint effort by European nations to enhance their armoured capabilities. The Vilkas variant, specifically tailored for Lithuania, integrates advanced technologies and offers versatility in combat scenarios. Entering service in the Lithuanian Armed Forces in 2019, the Vilkas deployment represents Lithuania's strategic investment in a contemporary armoured platform, capable of meeting the challenges of modern warfare.
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is an armoured fighting vehicle used by Lithuania , which was developed in collaboration with ARTEC GmbH. The vehicle's roots trace back to the German-Dutch "Boxer AFV" program, showcasing a joint effort by European nations to enhance their armoured capabilities. The Vilkas variant, specifically tailored for Lithuania, integrates advanced technologies and offers versatility in combat scenarios. Entering service in the Lithuanian Armed Forces in 2019, the Vilkas deployment represents Lithuania's strategic investment in a contemporary armoured platform, capable of meeting the challenges of modern warfare.
  
−
The '''Boxer ''Vilkas''''' is an event gift German light tank introduced during [[Update "Air Superiority"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/8644-event-winter-extreme-earn-yourself-rewards-this-festive-season-en|2023 Winter Extreme event]]. The Vilkas is a unique light tank choice for German top-tier players, providing fire-and-forget Spike missiles for use against tanks at longer ranges or against nearby helicopters. As such, the Vilkas presents a new playstyle to players of the German ground tree, allowing them to rush to a good position using mobility, and play as a "sniper" with decent firepower and long-range missile, or perhaps play the vehicle more aggressively and use the Spike missiles for dispatching helicopters and long-range targets of opportunity when needed. All in all, the Vilkas is a uniquely interesting vehicle to bolster the top lineups of the German tech tree.
+
The '''''Vilkas''''' (Lithuanian for "Wolf") is an event gift German light tank introduced during [[Update "Air Superiority"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/8644-event-winter-extreme-earn-yourself-rewards-this-festive-season-en|2023 Winter Extreme event]]. The Vilkas is a unique light tank choice for German top-tier players, providing fire-and-forget Spike missiles for use against tanks at longer ranges or against nearby helicopters. As such, the Vilkas presents a new playstyle to players of the German ground tree, allowing them to rush to a good position using mobility, and play as a "sniper" with decent firepower and long-range missile, or perhaps play the vehicle more aggressively and use the Spike missiles for dispatching helicopters and long-range targets of opportunity when needed. All in all, the Vilkas is a uniquely interesting vehicle to bolster the top lineups of the German tech tree.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 15: Line 15:
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
−
As an armoured fighting vehicle, the Vilkas can only shrug off heavy machine gun fire from the front, and light machine guns from the sides.  
+
Despite its composite screens covering the entire hull, the Vilkas does not offer particularly robust protection. While it can withstand high-calibre machine gun fire from the frontal aspect at all ranges, its sides and rear lack adequate armour coverage. Nevertheless, its armour proves invaluable in mitigating fragmentation damage from artillery strikes and rockets, setting it apart from other lightly armoured vehicles at its battle rating. One of the Vilkas's standout features is its spacious interior, which enhances survivability by reducing the likelihood of an instant kill from a singular hit. Additionally, the unmanned turret significantly bolsters its protection capabilities, allowing operators to engage targets without fear of immediate destruction. Even in the event of detonation of the cannon belts or Spike missile launchers, the platform remains resilient, further increasing survivability and sustaining operational effectiveness on the battlefield.
  
−
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
+
'''Armour type:'''
−
<!-- Example: * Rolled homogeneous armour (Front, Side, Rear, Hull roof)
+
 
−
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Transmission area) -->
+
*Rolled homogeneous armour (Most of the hull structure)
 +
*High hardness homogeneous armour (Turret, Lower glacis, Hull front roof, Parts of hull sides)
 +
*Composite screen (Additional armour on hull sides and rear)
  
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
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! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Hull || ___ mm || ___ mm ''Top'' <br> ___ mm ''Bottom'' || ___ mm || 15 mm
+
| Hull || 15 mm + 6-15 mm (73-80°) ''Upper Glacis''<br> 15 mm (53-65°) ''Lower Glacis'' || 15 mm + 38 mm (4-12°) ''Top'' <br> 15 mm + 6-8 mm (0-33°) ''Bottom'' || 15 mm + 38 mm (0-7°) || 15 mm + 15 mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || 15 mm
+
| Turret || 8 mm (45-52°) ''Turret front'' <br> 38 mm ''Gun mantlet'' || 8 mm (16-35°) || 8 mm (0-30°) || 8 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
'''Notes:'''
−
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
+
 
 +
*Wheels and suspension - 10 mm (Chassis)
 +
*Gun mount - 38 mm (Cast homogeneous armour)
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
−
''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.''
+
The Vilkas boasts a commendable power-to-weight ratio of 24.7, endowing it with remarkable speed and agility despite its considerable size and profile. Its off-road capabilities and superb top speed contribute to its versatility on the battlefield, allowing for swift manoeuvres and rapid responses to changing tactical situations. Additionally, the Vilkas maintains a decent reverse speed, further enhancing its mobility and operational effectiveness in dynamic environments.
  
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,263|rbMinHp=721}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=1,263|rbMinHp=721}}
Line 50: Line 54:
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
{{main|Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 (30 mm)}}
 
{{main|Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 (30 mm)}}
 +
 +
The Vilkas is equipped with the formidable Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 30 mm automatic cannon. While it may lack efficacy against heavily armoured vehicles in head-on combat engagements, its versatility shines in various tactical roles. Primarily, the Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 proves particularly effective for flanking manoeuvres and short-range anti-aircraft defense against approaching helicopters or slow and low-flying enemy jets. Its rapid rate of fire and powerful ammunition make it a formidable deterrent against aerial threats, providing critical support to ground forces. Moreover, when deployed within a group, the Vilkas becomes invaluable for targeting and neutralizing critical components of enemy vehicles, such as tracks or cannon barrels. Additionally, the Vilkas's Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 is recommended for continuous use of the APFSDS belt, even when engaging aircraft or lightly armoured vehicles.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 600 (200) || rowspan="2" | 200 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+60° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 54.5 || 75.5 || 91.7 || 101.4 || 107.9 || rowspan="2" | 13.00 || rowspan="2" | 11.50 || rowspan="2" | 10.60 || rowspan="2" | 10.00
+
| rowspan="2" | 600 (200) || rowspan="2" | 200 || rowspan="2" | -10°/+60° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 54.5 || 75.5 || 91.7 || 101.4 || 107.9 || rowspan="2" | 0.26 || rowspan="2" | 0.23 || rowspan="2" | 0.21 || rowspan="2" | 0.20
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
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==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.35.1.86''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
! 3rd<br>rack empty
−
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''3''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''3''' || 2&nbsp;''(+1)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+2)'' || 0&nbsp;''(+3)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
<!-- ''Some tanks are armed with several guns in one or more turrets. Evaluate the additional weaponry and give advice on its use. Describe the ammunition available for additional weaponry. Give advice on about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage. If there is no additional weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Some tanks are armed with several guns in one or more turrets. Evaluate the additional weaponry and give advice on its use. Describe the ammunition available for additional weaponry. Give advice on about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage. If there is no additional weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|Spike-LR2MR}}
+
{{main|Spike-LR II}}
 +
 
 +
The Vilkas comes equipped with the Spike-LR II IR fire-and-forget missiles, offering a potent but somewhat unpredictable anti-tank capability. These missiles show variable reliability, dependent on factors such as target speed, launch angle, distance, and carrier velocity. While they hold promise as stand-off weapons effective against heavily armoured targets, their performance can be inconsistent. Despite their small warhead, successful penetration can result in significant damage to enemy tanks. The missile launcher's positioning allows for No Line-of-Sight launches, contingent upon various factors and the target's level of exposure. However, their effectiveness diminishes at distances shorter than 400 metres. Moreover, their capacity for top-down attacks may encounter limitations, particularly against combat vehicles with additional roof protection, such as Russian tanks with ERA or heavily armoured tanks like the Strv 122 or Leopard 2A7 featuring NERA components.
 +
 
 +
In essence, the Spike-LR II's effectiveness hinges largely on chance, making its deployment a calculated risk on the battlefield. Commanders must weigh the situational factors carefully when employing these missiles, recognizing both their potential and limitations in engaging enemy armour.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | [[Spike-LR2MR]] missile || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
+
! colspan="4" | [[Spike-LR II]] missile || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Capacity (Belt) !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Capacity (Belt) !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
Line 108: Line 115:
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{{:Spike-LR2MR/Ammunition|Spike-LR2}}
+
{{:Spike-LR II/Ammunition|Spike-LR II}}
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.35.1.86''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! 1st<br>rack empty
 
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 
! 2nd<br>rack empty
−
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 
−
! 4th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
−
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''2''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''2''' || 1&nbsp;''(+1)'' || 0&nbsp;''(+2)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
{{Clear}}
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
Line 145: Line 149:
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the 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. Describe 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 vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the 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. Describe 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 Vilkas is best played at medium range in a hull-down scenario, to use the Spike missiles and the cannon. In Realistic Battles, it is best to remain at a range (ideally further than 500 m) to use the Spike missiles efficiently, as they need at least 300 m distance to not overshoot the target. However, the 25 mm APFSDS is largely ineffective at range against heavily armoured targets unless shooting sides at a flatter angle. At closer ranges, it is easier to damage cannon barrels and tracks, but depending on the distance, the Spike missiles may be infeasible or unusable. Thus, playing at medium ranges is the best option for the Vilkas. Remaining behind cover allows the crew to be safe from all kinetic munitions, but still vulnerable to overpressure damage from explosive munitions. In addition, if the turret's ammunition is destroyed, a fire can occur. If this occurs, the Vilkas' position is easily given away by a large ammo cook-off and should be repositioned as soon as possible, ideally to a friendly capture point to re-arm. Rearming one 200-round 25 mm magazine at a capture point takes less than a minute. The excellent power-to-weight ratio of the Vilkas enables quick movements and rotations, especially in uneven environments. In addition, the commander's thermal sight permits the acquisition and firing of the Spike missiles while mostly concealed behind cover. However, due to the lacklustre payload inside the Spike missiles, multiple missiles may be required to destroy a tank.  
+
The Vilkas is best played at medium range in a hull-down scenario, to use the Spike missiles and the cannon. In Realistic Battles, it is best to remain at a range (ideally further than 500 m) to use the Spike missiles efficiently, as they need at least 300 m distance to not overshoot the target. However, the 25 mm APFSDS is largely ineffective at range against heavily armoured targets unless shooting sides at a flatter angle. At closer ranges, it is easier to damage cannon barrels and tracks, but depending on the distance, the Spike missiles may be infeasible or unusable. Thus, playing at medium ranges is the best option for the Vilkas. Remaining behind cover allows the crew to be safe from all kinetic munitions, but still vulnerable to overpressure damage from explosive munitions. In addition, if the turret's ammunition is destroyed, a fire can occur. If this occurs, the Vilkas' position is easily given away by a large ammo cook-off and should be repositioned as soon as possible, ideally to a friendly capture point to re-arm. Rearming one 200-round 25 mm magazine at a capture point takes less than a minute. The excellent power-to-weight ratio of the Vilkas enables quick movements and rotations, especially in uneven environments. In addition, the commander's thermal sight permits the acquisition and firing of the Spike missiles while mostly concealed behind cover. However, due to the lacklustre payload inside the Spike missiles, multiple missiles may be required to destroy a tank.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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* Large steering circle
 
* Large steering circle
 
* Mediocre reverse speed for a wheeled armoured vehicle
 
* Mediocre reverse speed for a wheeled armoured vehicle
−
* Low Atgm ammo
+
* Low ATGM count
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==

Latest revision as of 10:23, 17 November 2024

Rank VI | Premium | Golden Eagles
Chinese A-5C Pack
Vilkas
germ_vilkas.png
GarageImage Vilkas.jpg
Vilkas
Germany flag.png Germany
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
10.7 10.7 10.7
Class:
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
MARKET

Description

The Pėstininkų kovos mašina Vilkas is an armoured fighting vehicle used by Lithuania , which was developed in collaboration with ARTEC GmbH. The vehicle's roots trace back to the German-Dutch "Boxer AFV" program, showcasing a joint effort by European nations to enhance their armoured capabilities. The Vilkas variant, specifically tailored for Lithuania, integrates advanced technologies and offers versatility in combat scenarios. Entering service in the Lithuanian Armed Forces in 2019, the Vilkas deployment represents Lithuania's strategic investment in a contemporary armoured platform, capable of meeting the challenges of modern warfare.

The Vilkas (Lithuanian for "Wolf") is an event gift German light tank introduced during Update "Air Superiority" as a reward for the 2023 Winter Extreme event. The Vilkas is a unique light tank choice for German top-tier players, providing fire-and-forget Spike missiles for use against tanks at longer ranges or against nearby helicopters. As such, the Vilkas presents a new playstyle to players of the German ground tree, allowing them to rush to a good position using mobility, and play as a "sniper" with decent firepower and long-range missile, or perhaps play the vehicle more aggressively and use the Spike missiles for dispatching helicopters and long-range targets of opportunity when needed. All in all, the Vilkas is a uniquely interesting vehicle to bolster the top lineups of the German tech tree.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull15 / 15 / 15
Turret8 / 8 / 8
Crew3 people
Visibility205 %

Despite its composite screens covering the entire hull, the Vilkas does not offer particularly robust protection. While it can withstand high-calibre machine gun fire from the frontal aspect at all ranges, its sides and rear lack adequate armour coverage. Nevertheless, its armour proves invaluable in mitigating fragmentation damage from artillery strikes and rockets, setting it apart from other lightly armoured vehicles at its battle rating. One of the Vilkas's standout features is its spacious interior, which enhances survivability by reducing the likelihood of an instant kill from a singular hit. Additionally, the unmanned turret significantly bolsters its protection capabilities, allowing operators to engage targets without fear of immediate destruction. Even in the event of detonation of the cannon belts or Spike missile launchers, the platform remains resilient, further increasing survivability and sustaining operational effectiveness on the battlefield.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (Most of the hull structure)
  • High hardness homogeneous armour (Turret, Lower glacis, Hull front roof, Parts of hull sides)
  • Composite screen (Additional armour on hull sides and rear)
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 15 mm + 6-15 mm (73-80°) Upper Glacis
15 mm (53-65°) Lower Glacis 		15 mm + 38 mm (4-12°) Top
15 mm + 6-8 mm (0-33°) Bottom 		15 mm + 38 mm (0-7°) 15 mm + 15 mm
Turret 8 mm (45-52°) Turret front
38 mm Gun mantlet 		8 mm (16-35°) 8 mm (0-30°) 8 mm

Notes:

  • Wheels and suspension - 10 mm (Chassis)
  • Gun mount - 38 mm (Cast homogeneous armour)

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB115 / 21 km/h
RB and SB103 / 19 km/h
Number of gears14 forward
2 back
Weight36.5 t
Engine power
AB1 374 hp
RB and SB720 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB37.6 hp/t
RB and SB19.7 hp/t

The Vilkas boasts a commendable power-to-weight ratio of 24.7, endowing it with remarkable speed and agility despite its considerable size and profile. Its off-road capabilities and superb top speed contribute to its versatility on the battlefield, allowing for swift manoeuvres and rapid responses to changing tactical situations. Additionally, the Vilkas maintains a decent reverse speed, further enhancing its mobility and operational effectiveness in dynamic environments.

Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 115 21 36.5 1,263 1,374 34.6 37.64
Realistic 103 19 721 720 19.75 19.73

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 537 → 5 984 Sl icon.png
RB3 375 → 5 710 Sl icon.png
SB4 494 → 7 603 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications212 800 Rp icon.png
351 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 800 Ge icon.png
Crew training200 000 Sl icon.png
Experts710 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 080 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
140 / 170 / 220 % Sl icon.png
232 / 232 / 232 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new wheels.png
Tires
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods new car suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
9 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
3 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ger.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
9 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
30mm_173_HEI_ammo_pack
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
380 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods airstrike.png
Airstrike
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods scout streak.png
Scout UAV
Research:
8 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
9 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods scouting.png
Improved optics
Research:
9 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
30mm_173_APDS_FS_ammo_pack
Research:
9 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
9 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
330 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods tank laser rangefinder.png
Laser rangefinder
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
23 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Laser rangefinder
Reduces the error and increases the maximum measurable distance of the rangefinder
Night vision device
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

30 mm Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition600 rounds
First-order200 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
0.3 → 0.2 s
Fire rate201 shots/min
Vertical guidance-20° / 70°
Main article: Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 (30 mm)

The Vilkas is equipped with the formidable Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 30 mm automatic cannon. While it may lack efficacy against heavily armoured vehicles in head-on combat engagements, its versatility shines in various tactical roles. Primarily, the Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 proves particularly effective for flanking manoeuvres and short-range anti-aircraft defense against approaching helicopters or slow and low-flying enemy jets. Its rapid rate of fire and powerful ammunition make it a formidable deterrent against aerial threats, providing critical support to ground forces. Moreover, when deployed within a group, the Vilkas becomes invaluable for targeting and neutralizing critical components of enemy vehicles, such as tracks or cannon barrels. Additionally, the Vilkas's Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 is recommended for continuous use of the APFSDS belt, even when engaging aircraft or lightly armoured vehicles.

30 mm Bushmaster 2 Mk.44 Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 600 (200) 200 -10°/+60° ±180° Two-plane 54.5 75.5 91.7 101.4 107.9 0.26 0.23 0.21 0.20
Realistic 34.1 40.1 48.7 53.9 57.3

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
APDS 87 86 81 75 70 65
HEI-T 9 8 6 5 3 3
APFSDS 116 115 110 104 99 93
Shell details
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
APDS 1,480 0.19 - - - 75° 78° 80°
HEI-T 1,080 0.36 0.1 0.1 54.4 79° 80° 81°
APFSDS 1,430 0.1 - - - 78° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Vilkas
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
3 2 (+1) 1 (+2) 0 (+3) No

Note:

  • If turret ammunition storage is hit, the magazine will be lost and a new one will be reloaded.

Additional armament

Spike-LR II ATGM
Ammunition4 rounds
Belt capacity2 rounds
Fire rate120 shots/min
Main article: Spike-LR II

The Vilkas comes equipped with the Spike-LR II IR fire-and-forget missiles, offering a potent but somewhat unpredictable anti-tank capability. These missiles show variable reliability, dependent on factors such as target speed, launch angle, distance, and carrier velocity. While they hold promise as stand-off weapons effective against heavily armoured targets, their performance can be inconsistent. Despite their small warhead, successful penetration can result in significant damage to enemy tanks. The missile launcher's positioning allows for No Line-of-Sight launches, contingent upon various factors and the target's level of exposure. However, their effectiveness diminishes at distances shorter than 400 metres. Moreover, their capacity for top-down attacks may encounter limitations, particularly against combat vehicles with additional roof protection, such as Russian tanks with ERA or heavily armoured tanks like the Strv 122 or Leopard 2A7 featuring NERA components.

In essence, the Spike-LR II's effectiveness hinges largely on chance, making its deployment a calculated risk on the battlefield. Commanders must weigh the situational factors carefully when employing these missiles, recognizing both their potential and limitations in engaging enemy armour.

Spike-LR II missile Reloading rate (seconds)
Capacity (Belt) Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Full Expert Aced
4 (2) - - - 13.00 11.50 10.60 10.00

Ammunition

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
Spike-LR II ATGM (tandem) 900 900 900 900 900 900
Missile details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Range
(m) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Spike-LR II ATGM (tandem) 180 20,000 13.5 0.4 0.01 1.27 80° 82° 90°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Vilkas
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
2 1 (+1) 0 (+2) No

Machine guns

7.62 mm MG3A1 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition4 000 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
Main article: MG3A1 (7.62 mm)
7.62 mm MG3A1
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 4,000 (200) 1,200 - -

Usage in battles

The Vilkas is best played at medium range in a hull-down scenario, to use the Spike missiles and the cannon. In Realistic Battles, it is best to remain at a range (ideally further than 500 m) to use the Spike missiles efficiently, as they need at least 300 m distance to not overshoot the target. However, the 25 mm APFSDS is largely ineffective at range against heavily armoured targets unless shooting sides at a flatter angle. At closer ranges, it is easier to damage cannon barrels and tracks, but depending on the distance, the Spike missiles may be infeasible or unusable. Thus, playing at medium ranges is the best option for the Vilkas. Remaining behind cover allows the crew to be safe from all kinetic munitions, but still vulnerable to overpressure damage from explosive munitions. In addition, if the turret's ammunition is destroyed, a fire can occur. If this occurs, the Vilkas' position is easily given away by a large ammo cook-off and should be repositioned as soon as possible, ideally to a friendly capture point to re-arm. Rearming one 200-round 25 mm magazine at a capture point takes less than a minute. The excellent power-to-weight ratio of the Vilkas enables quick movements and rotations, especially in uneven environments. In addition, the commander's thermal sight permits the acquisition and firing of the Spike missiles while mostly concealed behind cover. However, due to the lacklustre payload inside the Spike missiles, multiple missiles may be required to destroy a tank.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Optics with thermal sensors for both the gunner and commander
  • IR tracking system and ballistic computer for aerial targets
  • Unmanned turret
  • High power-to-weight ratio enables superior mobility
  • Great maximum speed
  • Blowout panels

Cons:

  • Unreliable Spike missiles
  • Inconsistent damage from the Bushmaster cannon
  • Tall profile
  • Only three belts of ammunition with easily targetable turret storage
  • Large steering circle
  • Mediocre reverse speed for a wheeled armoured vehicle
  • Low ATGM count

History

Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle 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

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

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 vehicles;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links


Germany light tanks
Pz.II  Pz.II C · Pz.II C (DAK) · Pz.II C TD · Pz.II F · Pz.Sfl.Ic
Sd.Kfz.234  Sd.Kfz.234/1 · Sd.Kfz.234/2 · Sd.Kfz.234/2 TD
Marder  Marder A1- · Marder 1A3 · Begleitpanzer 57 · DF105
SPz PUMA  PUMA · PUMA VJTF
Wheeled  Sd.Kfz.221 (s.Pz.B.41) · Class 3 (P) · Radkampfwagen 90 · Boxer MGS
Other  Ru 251 · SPz 12-3 LGS
Argentina  TAM · TAM 2C · TAM 2IP · JaPz.K A2
Czechoslovakia  Pz.35(t) · Pz.38(t) A · Pz.38(t) F · Pz.38(t) n.A. · Sd.Kfz. 140/1
France  Pz.Sp.Wg.P204(f) KwK
Lithuania  Vilkas
USA  leKPz M41
USSR  SPz BMP-1

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