Difference between revisions of "J21A-1"
m (Edits.) |
(Edits) |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{Specs-Card|code=saab_j21a_1}} | {{Specs-Card|code=saab_j21a_1}} | ||
| − | |||
{{About | {{About | ||
| about = Swedish fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}''' | | about = Swedish fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}''' | ||
| usage = other versions | | usage = other versions | ||
| link = J21 (Family) | | link = J21 (Family) | ||
| − | }} | + | }} |
| − | == 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]] | [[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]] | ||
| − | {{ | + | {{Break}} |
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Swedish fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]] along with the rest of the Swedish air tree. | The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Swedish fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.95 "Northern Wind"]] along with the rest of the Swedish air tree. | ||
== 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. --> | + | <!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' --> |
| − | The J21 series is arguably the most iconic | + | The J21 series is arguably the most iconic propeller-engined aircraft to ever come out of Sweden. Its distinctive twin-boom, rear-engined facia is easy to recognize and its performance is nothing to scoff at either. Its high speed, excellent energy retention and reasonable acceleration along with surprising agility allows a single J21 to dictate the flow of the battle. One might think that the excellent performance comes at the cost of weaponry or ammunition, but they would be sorely mistaken when assuming that is the case for the J21. The [[Akan m/39A (13.2 mm)|Akan m/39A]]'s are some of the most effective non-cannon aircraft weaponry in the game, boasting superior aspects to even the famed [[M2 Browning (12.7 mm)|M2 Browning]] - Specifically in terms of raw stopping power and muzzle velocity - and their [[Akan m/41A (20 mm)|Akan m/41A]] is quite powerful as well. Underestimating a J21 will result in a burning plane and a free trip back to the hangar. |
All-in-All, the J21A-1 is a very effective platform when used to its strengths, able to reliably beat most things it comes across. | All-in-All, the J21A-1 is a very effective platform when used to its strengths, able to reliably beat most things it comes across. | ||
| − | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | + | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%" |
| − | + | ! rowspan="2" | Characteristics | |
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | ! | ||
| − | |||
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,300 m) | ! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,300 m) | ||
| − | ! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>( | + | ! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres) |
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds) | ! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds) | ||
| − | ! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>( | + | ! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second) |
| − | ! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>( | + | ! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres) |
|- | |- | ||
| − | ! AB | + | ! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB |
| − | ! RB | ||
| − | ! AB | ||
| − | ! RB | ||
| − | ! AB | ||
| − | ! RB | ||
|- | |- | ||
| − | | 616 || 599 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 21.0 || 21.9 || 12.6 || 12.6 || 300 | + | ! Stock |
| + | | 616 || 599 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 21.0 || 21.9 || 12.6 || 12.6 || rowspan="2" | 300 | ||
|- | |- | ||
| − | ! | + | ! Upgraded |
| − | + | | 666 || 640 || 19.0 || 20.0 || 19.0 || 15.5 | |
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | | 666 || 640 | ||
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
==== Details ==== | ==== Details ==== | ||
| − | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | + | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%" |
|- | |- | ||
! colspan="5" | Features | ! colspan="5" | Features | ||
|- | |- | ||
| − | ! Combat flaps | + | ! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear |
| − | ! Take-off flaps | ||
| − | ! Landing flaps | ||
| − | ! Air brakes | ||
| − | ! Arrestor gear | ||
|- | |- | ||
| − | |✓ | + | | ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X <!-- ✓ --> |
| − | |✓ | ||
| − | |✓ | ||
| − | | X || X <!-- ✓ --> | ||
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
| − | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" | + | {| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%" |
|- | |- | ||
| − | ! colspan=" | + | ! colspan="7" | Limits |
|- | |- | ||
| − | ! rowspan="2" | | + | ! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h) |
| − | ! rowspan="2" | Gear | + | ! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h) |
| − | ! | + | ! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h) |
! colspan="2" | Max Static G | ! colspan="2" | Max Static G | ||
|- | |- | ||
| − | ! + | + | ! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! - |
| − | ! - | ||
|- | |- | ||
| − | | | + | | {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 460 || 460 || 325 || ~11 || ~5 |
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
| − | + | === Survivability and armour === | |
| − | + | <!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' --> | |
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | ! | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
[[File:J21 Armour Plating.png|450px|thumb|right|Protective components found in the '''{{PAGENAME}}'''.]] | [[File:J21 Armour Plating.png|450px|thumb|right|Protective components found in the '''{{PAGENAME}}'''.]] | ||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
| − | |||
* 10 mm steel - Firewall armour plate | * 10 mm steel - Firewall armour plate | ||
* 10 mm steel - Firewall cover armour plate | * 10 mm steel - Firewall cover armour plate | ||
| Line 131: | Line 73: | ||
== Armaments == | == Armaments == | ||
=== Offensive armament === | === Offensive armament === | ||
| − | <!--''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.''--> | + | <!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' --> |
| − | {{main|Akan m/ | + | {{main|Akan m/41A (20 mm)|Akan m/39A (13.2 mm)}} |
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with: | The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with: | ||
| − | + | * 1 x 20 mm Akan m/41A cannon, nose-mounted (140 rpg) | |
| − | * 1 x 20 mm Akan m/41A | + | * 2 x 13.2 mm Akan m/39A machine guns, nose-mounted (350 rpg = 700 total) |
| − | * 2 x 13.2 mm Akan m/39A | + | * 2 x 13.2 mm Akan m/39A machine guns, wing-mounted (325 rpg = 650 total) |
| − | * 2 x 13.2 mm Akan m/39A | ||
The '''automatkanon m/41A''' is essentially a slower firing [[Hispano 404 (20 mm)|Hispano 404]] with more ammunition, with all the advantages and disadvantages that come with it. While one might think that the slower firing speed is a disadvantage, it is just high enough to still be effective and is very beneficial for conserving ammunition. It is important to note that when stock, the cannon is very inaccurate and overheats quickly, but becomes quite accurate after modifications. | The '''automatkanon m/41A''' is essentially a slower firing [[Hispano 404 (20 mm)|Hispano 404]] with more ammunition, with all the advantages and disadvantages that come with it. While one might think that the slower firing speed is a disadvantage, it is just high enough to still be effective and is very beneficial for conserving ammunition. It is important to note that when stock, the cannon is very inaccurate and overheats quickly, but becomes quite accurate after modifications. | ||
| − | The complimentary '''automatkanon m/39A''' heavy machine guns are, as mentioned previously, arguably the best non-cannon weapons in the game. Their high muzzle velocity, VERY high fire rate and reasonable accuracy allow them to saturate the sky with lead. The higher calibre of 13.2 mm allows for more stopping power than the typical 12.7 mm, and turns them from a nuisance to a threat. It is interesting to note that due to their HEF-T rounds, they technically fall under the category of "cannon", as normally exploding rounds typically start at 20 mm. | + | The complimentary '''automatkanon m/39A''' heavy machine guns are, as mentioned previously, arguably the best non-cannon weapons in the game. Their high muzzle velocity, VERY high fire rate and reasonable accuracy allow them to saturate the sky with lead. The higher calibre of 13.2 mm allows for more stopping power than the typical 12.7 mm, and turns them from a nuisance to a threat. It is interesting to note that due to their HEF-T rounds, they technically fall under the category of "cannon", as normally exploding rounds typically start at 20 mm. |
== Usage in battles == | == Usage in battles == | ||
| − | <!-- Describe the tactics of playing in | + | <!-- ''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).'' --> |
For lack of a better term, the J21 series are very good face-punchers; they are excellent aircraft when it comes to '''head-to-head combat''' as they are able to reliably take down enemy aircraft from a distance and dodge returning fire thanks to its solid roll rate and agility. Alternatively, they can be employed as quite effective '''energy fighters''' as a result of their solid climb rate and ample energy retention, but one must take care as the common stall-fighting exposes the pilot's engine to damage. Another possible flying style is as a '''bomber interceptor''', as your reasonable climb rate and solid performance at bomber altitudes will allow you to catch them quickly and your excellent guns will shred them quite easily. When attacking a bomber, make sure to focus on the wings and engines, or try to head-on it so you can snipe the pilot. | For lack of a better term, the J21 series are very good face-punchers; they are excellent aircraft when it comes to '''head-to-head combat''' as they are able to reliably take down enemy aircraft from a distance and dodge returning fire thanks to its solid roll rate and agility. Alternatively, they can be employed as quite effective '''energy fighters''' as a result of their solid climb rate and ample energy retention, but one must take care as the common stall-fighting exposes the pilot's engine to damage. Another possible flying style is as a '''bomber interceptor''', as your reasonable climb rate and solid performance at bomber altitudes will allow you to catch them quickly and your excellent guns will shred them quite easily. When attacking a bomber, make sure to focus on the wings and engines, or try to head-on it so you can snipe the pilot. | ||
| Line 152: | Line 93: | ||
==== Specific Enemies Worth Noting: ==== | ==== Specific Enemies Worth Noting: ==== | ||
| − | * [[P-47D-25]]/[[P-47D-28|28]] | + | * '''[[P-47D-25]]/[[P-47D-28|28]]:''' The high-speed Thunderbolts are a menace in any game mode. They are some of the fastest things in the bracket and sport an octet of the late M2 Brownings that will set you ablaze in a few short bursts. While they are already quick at medium altitudes, they become even faster at high altitudes, easily blitzing past the poor J21. However, they turn incredibly poorly and climb just as bad. The go-to tactic versus a P-47 is to turn with it in order to get on its tail then melt it with your guns. |
| − | * [[M.B.157]] | + | * '''[[M.B.157]]:''' The 157 is one of the worst enemies you can come across as it is basically a Thunderbolt that can turn and climb. Its ludicrous speed along with excellent climb rate and its above-average manoeuvrability make for an enemy that you cannot face in a 1-on-1. Your best bet is to try to head-on it if you can manage to do so. The one Achilles heel of the 157 is its low ammunition count, so try to get it to waste as much ammo as possible before it needs to disengage. At this point, you can either try to gun it down or attempt to regain altitude so you may catch it later. |
| − | * [[Bf 109 | + | * '''[[Bf 109 (Family)|Bf 109 F series]]:''' The F series of 109's are noteworthy adversaries whose strengths change with the model. The F-1 and F-2 will turn better than you and climb quite well but you are quite a bit faster than them, but the F-4 is almost a hard counter depending on if it runs gunpods. Without gunpods, the F-4 out-speeds, outclimbs, outturns and out-accelerates the J21, outclassing it in every way. But since most F-4's run gunpods, their decreased performance helps even the odds. Boom-n-Zoom the F-1 and F-2, head on the F-4. |
=== Manual Engine Control === | === Manual Engine Control === | ||
| Line 167: | Line 108: | ||
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger | ! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger | ||
|- | |- | ||
| − | ! Oil | + | ! Oil !! Water !! Type |
| − | ! Water | ||
| − | ! Type | ||
|- | |- | ||
| − | | Not controllable || | + | | Not controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable |
|- | |- | ||
|} | |} | ||
| Line 177: | Line 116: | ||
=== Modules === | === Modules === | ||
{| class="wikitable" | {| class="wikitable" | ||
| − | ! | + | ! Tier |
! colspan="2" | Flight performance | ! colspan="2" | Flight performance | ||
| − | ! | + | ! Survivability |
! colspan="2" | Weaponry | ! colspan="2" | Weaponry | ||
|- | |- | ||
| Line 213: | Line 152: | ||
=== 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:''' | '''Pros:''' | ||
| − | |||
* Very stable, does not stall in level flight even with the throttle set to zero | * Very stable, does not stall in level flight even with the throttle set to zero | ||
* Engine protected from head-on attacks | * Engine protected from head-on attacks | ||
| Line 227: | Line 165: | ||
'''Cons:''' | '''Cons:''' | ||
| − | |||
* Pusher aircraft, engine mounted facing rear, exposed to enemy aircraft which may follow | * Pusher aircraft, engine mounted facing rear, exposed to enemy aircraft which may follow | ||
* Required to set convergence due to wing-mounted machine guns | * Required to set convergence due to wing-mounted machine guns | ||
| − | * Despite above-average agility, it will still be unable to turn with many of the fighters it comes across | + | * Despite above-average agility, it will still be unable to turn with many of the fighters it comes across |
== History == | == History == | ||
| − | <!-- Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: 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>, 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 === In-game description ===, 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).'' --> |
| − | The SAAB 21 is a twin-boom pusher fighter and attacker designed by the famed Swedish civil engineer Frid Wänström (pronounced "Vanstorm"), who also worked on the SAAB 29 ''Tunnan'', 32 ''Lansen'', 35 ''Draken'' and 37 ''Viggen''. In the anticipation and wake of World War 2, Sweden was concerned over its neutrality policy coming under threat by the other European countries, specifically hostile ones such as Nazi Germany. In order to deter belligerent forces and potential aggressors, the Swedish Air Force created a major plan to modernize their fleet, which included the import of foreign models such as the Italian [[J11|CR.42]] and [[J20|Re.2000]] as a stopgap measure. | + | The SAAB 21 is a twin-boom pusher fighter and attacker designed by the famed Swedish civil engineer Frid Wänström (pronounced "Vanstorm"), who also worked on the SAAB 29 ''Tunnan'', 32 ''Lansen'', 35 ''Draken'' and 37 ''Viggen''. In the anticipation and wake of World War 2, Sweden was concerned over its neutrality policy coming under threat by the other European countries, specifically hostile ones such as Nazi Germany. In order to deter belligerent forces and potential aggressors, the Swedish Air Force created a major plan to modernize their fleet, which included the import of foreign models such as the Italian [[J11|CR.42]] and [[J20|Re.2000]] as a stopgap measure. |
Meanwhile, Swedish corporation SAAB began studying designs for the possible development of a new, high-performance fighter aircraft. Most of the designs were based around the Bristol Taurus two-row 14 cylinder radial engine developing around 1,000~1,100 horsepower. The most promising design was a twin-boom pusher layout and made use of many new features unfamiliar to the SAAB technicians and engineers at the time, but was able to compete with the other fighter aircraft at the time while also maintaining several advantages such as a heavy amount of nose-mounted armament and superior pilot visibility, along with ease of maintenance. The design was kept dormant until 41, as Sweden was beginning to see that it would not be able to procure improved foreign models as a result of the war, they started another rearmament program to adopt advanced indigenous fighter aircraft. | Meanwhile, Swedish corporation SAAB began studying designs for the possible development of a new, high-performance fighter aircraft. Most of the designs were based around the Bristol Taurus two-row 14 cylinder radial engine developing around 1,000~1,100 horsepower. The most promising design was a twin-boom pusher layout and made use of many new features unfamiliar to the SAAB technicians and engineers at the time, but was able to compete with the other fighter aircraft at the time while also maintaining several advantages such as a heavy amount of nose-mounted armament and superior pilot visibility, along with ease of maintenance. The design was kept dormant until 41, as Sweden was beginning to see that it would not be able to procure improved foreign models as a result of the war, they started another rearmament program to adopt advanced indigenous fighter aircraft. | ||
| − | Accordingly, SAAB blew the dust off of their old twin-boom design and set to work. Earlier on, it was decided to replace the Bristol Taurus with an American Pratt-&-Whitney Twin Wasp, but this was changed when the engine manufacturer ''Svenska'' was requested to provide an alternative engine, which was difficult due to the time constraints. Thus, they decided that a licensed engine would be the best course of action. The legendary German Daimler-Benz DB 605 that powered many famous designs was chosen and modified to fit Swedish needs. Three prototypes were completed and its maiden flight was completed in 1942. | + | Accordingly, SAAB blew the dust off of their old twin-boom design and set to work. Earlier on, it was decided to replace the Bristol Taurus with an American Pratt-&-Whitney Twin Wasp, but this was changed when the engine manufacturer ''Svenska'' was requested to provide an alternative engine, which was difficult due to the time constraints. Thus, they decided that a licensed engine would be the best course of action. The legendary German Daimler-Benz DB 605 that powered many famous designs was chosen and modified to fit Swedish needs. Three prototypes were completed and its maiden flight was completed in 1942. |
The type was delivered in 1945, and a total of 300 models were produced. | The type was delivered in 1945, and a total of 300 models were produced. | ||
| Line 255: | Line 192: | ||
;Videos--> | ;Videos--> | ||
== See also == | == See also == | ||
| − | <!--''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:'' | + | <!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:'' |
| − | + | * ''reference to the series of the aircraft;'' | |
| − | * | + | * ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' --> |
| − | + | ;Related development | |
| − | * [[ | + | * [[J21 (Family)]] |
| − | + | <!-- ;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era | |
| − | ;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era | + | * Airplane manufacture name [[Airplane name]] --> |
| − | |||
| − | * Airplane manufacture name [[Airplane name]]--> | ||
== External links == | == External links == | ||
| − | <!--Paste links to sources and external resources, such as: | + | <!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:'' |
* ''topic on the official game forum;'' | * ''topic on the official game forum;'' | ||
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;'' | * ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;'' | ||
| − | * ''other literature.''--> | + | * ''other literature.'' --> |
| − | |||
* [[wt:en/news/6530-development-saab-j21a-1-nordic-exotic-en|[Devblog] SAAB J21A-1: Nordic Exotic]] | * [[wt:en/news/6530-development-saab-j21a-1-nordic-exotic-en|[Devblog] SAAB J21A-1: Nordic Exotic]] | ||
{{AirManufacturer Saab}} | {{AirManufacturer Saab}} | ||
| − | {{ | + | {{Sweden fighters}} |
| − | |||
| − | |||
Revision as of 09:37, 5 April 2020
Contents
| This page is about the Swedish fighter J21A-1. For other versions, see J21 (Family). |
Description
The J21A-1 is a rank IV Swedish fighter
with a battle rating of 5.3 (AB), 4.3 (RB), and 3.3 (SB). It was introduced in Update 1.95 "Northern Wind" along with the rest of the Swedish air tree.
General info
Flight performance
The J21 series is arguably the most iconic propeller-engined aircraft to ever come out of Sweden. Its distinctive twin-boom, rear-engined facia is easy to recognize and its performance is nothing to scoff at either. Its high speed, excellent energy retention and reasonable acceleration along with surprising agility allows a single J21 to dictate the flow of the battle. One might think that the excellent performance comes at the cost of weaponry or ammunition, but they would be sorely mistaken when assuming that is the case for the J21. The Akan m/39A's are some of the most effective non-cannon aircraft weaponry in the game, boasting superior aspects to even the famed M2 Browning - Specifically in terms of raw stopping power and muzzle velocity - and their Akan m/41A is quite powerful as well. Underestimating a J21 will result in a burning plane and a free trip back to the hangar.
All-in-All, the J21A-1 is a very effective platform when used to its strengths, able to reliably beat most things it comes across.
| Characteristics | Max Speed (km/h at 4,300 m) |
Max altitude (metres) |
Turn time (seconds) |
Rate of climb (metres/second) |
Take-off run (metres) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AB | RB | AB | RB | AB | RB | |||
| Stock | 616 | 599 | 10800 | 21.0 | 21.9 | 12.6 | 12.6 | 300 |
| Upgraded | 666 | 640 | 19.0 | 20.0 | 19.0 | 15.5 | ||
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 | + | - | ||
| 683 | 325 | 460 | 460 | 325 | ~11 | ~5 |
Survivability and armour
- 10 mm steel - Firewall armour plate
- 10 mm steel - Firewall cover armour plate
- 10 mm steel - Pilot's back armour plate
- 60 mm bulletproof glass
Armaments
Offensive armament
The J21A-1 is armed with:
- 1 x 20 mm Akan m/41A cannon, nose-mounted (140 rpg)
- 2 x 13.2 mm Akan m/39A machine guns, nose-mounted (350 rpg = 700 total)
- 2 x 13.2 mm Akan m/39A machine guns, wing-mounted (325 rpg = 650 total)
The automatkanon m/41A is essentially a slower firing Hispano 404 with more ammunition, with all the advantages and disadvantages that come with it. While one might think that the slower firing speed is a disadvantage, it is just high enough to still be effective and is very beneficial for conserving ammunition. It is important to note that when stock, the cannon is very inaccurate and overheats quickly, but becomes quite accurate after modifications.
The complimentary automatkanon m/39A heavy machine guns are, as mentioned previously, arguably the best non-cannon weapons in the game. Their high muzzle velocity, VERY high fire rate and reasonable accuracy allow them to saturate the sky with lead. The higher calibre of 13.2 mm allows for more stopping power than the typical 12.7 mm, and turns them from a nuisance to a threat. It is interesting to note that due to their HEF-T rounds, they technically fall under the category of "cannon", as normally exploding rounds typically start at 20 mm.
Usage in battles
For lack of a better term, the J21 series are very good face-punchers; they are excellent aircraft when it comes to head-to-head combat as they are able to reliably take down enemy aircraft from a distance and dodge returning fire thanks to its solid roll rate and agility. Alternatively, they can be employed as quite effective energy fighters as a result of their solid climb rate and ample energy retention, but one must take care as the common stall-fighting exposes the pilot's engine to damage. Another possible flying style is as a bomber interceptor, as your reasonable climb rate and solid performance at bomber altitudes will allow you to catch them quickly and your excellent guns will shred them quite easily. When attacking a bomber, make sure to focus on the wings and engines, or try to head-on it so you can snipe the pilot.
Your ideal altitude should be around 4,000 m ~ 6,000 m as this altitude allows you to pick your fights reliably and offers the best performance for the aircraft.
Specific Enemies Worth Noting:
- P-47D-25/28: The high-speed Thunderbolts are a menace in any game mode. They are some of the fastest things in the bracket and sport an octet of the late M2 Brownings that will set you ablaze in a few short bursts. While they are already quick at medium altitudes, they become even faster at high altitudes, easily blitzing past the poor J21. However, they turn incredibly poorly and climb just as bad. The go-to tactic versus a P-47 is to turn with it in order to get on its tail then melt it with your guns.
- M.B.157: The 157 is one of the worst enemies you can come across as it is basically a Thunderbolt that can turn and climb. Its ludicrous speed along with excellent climb rate and its above-average manoeuvrability make for an enemy that you cannot face in a 1-on-1. Your best bet is to try to head-on it if you can manage to do so. The one Achilles heel of the 157 is its low ammunition count, so try to get it to waste as much ammo as possible before it needs to disengage. At this point, you can either try to gun it down or attempt to regain altitude so you may catch it later.
- Bf 109 F series: The F series of 109's are noteworthy adversaries whose strengths change with the model. The F-1 and F-2 will turn better than you and climb quite well but you are quite a bit faster than them, but the F-4 is almost a hard counter depending on if it runs gunpods. Without gunpods, the F-4 out-speeds, outclimbs, outturns and out-accelerates the J21, outclassing it in every way. But since most F-4's run gunpods, their decreased performance helps even the odds. Boom-n-Zoom the F-1 and F-2, head on the F-4.
Manual Engine Control
| MEC elements | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mixer | Pitch | Radiator | Supercharger | Turbocharger | ||
| Oil | Water | Type | ||||
| Not controllable | Controllable Auto control available |
Controllable Auto control available |
Controllable Auto control available |
Separate | Not controllable 1 gear |
Not controllable |
Modules
| Tier | Flight performance | Survivability | Weaponry | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I | Fuselage repair | Radiator | Offensive 20 mm | ||
| II | Compressor | Airframe | Offensive 13 mm | ||
| III | Wings repair | Engine | New 20 mm cannons | ||
| IV | Engine injection | Cover | New 13 mm MGs | ||
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Very stable, does not stall in level flight even with the throttle set to zero
- Engine protected from head-on attacks
- Highly effective and accurate armament layout that will tear through enemies like paper
- High speed and excellent energy retention makes it a beast at using BnZ tactics.
- Can take quite a few hits and still fly reasonably well
- Solid climbing rate
- Very high energy retention
- Easy to land thanks to its tricycle landing gear
Cons:
- Pusher aircraft, engine mounted facing rear, exposed to enemy aircraft which may follow
- Required to set convergence due to wing-mounted machine guns
- Despite above-average agility, it will still be unable to turn with many of the fighters it comes across
History
The SAAB 21 is a twin-boom pusher fighter and attacker designed by the famed Swedish civil engineer Frid Wänström (pronounced "Vanstorm"), who also worked on the SAAB 29 Tunnan, 32 Lansen, 35 Draken and 37 Viggen. In the anticipation and wake of World War 2, Sweden was concerned over its neutrality policy coming under threat by the other European countries, specifically hostile ones such as Nazi Germany. In order to deter belligerent forces and potential aggressors, the Swedish Air Force created a major plan to modernize their fleet, which included the import of foreign models such as the Italian CR.42 and Re.2000 as a stopgap measure.
Meanwhile, Swedish corporation SAAB began studying designs for the possible development of a new, high-performance fighter aircraft. Most of the designs were based around the Bristol Taurus two-row 14 cylinder radial engine developing around 1,000~1,100 horsepower. The most promising design was a twin-boom pusher layout and made use of many new features unfamiliar to the SAAB technicians and engineers at the time, but was able to compete with the other fighter aircraft at the time while also maintaining several advantages such as a heavy amount of nose-mounted armament and superior pilot visibility, along with ease of maintenance. The design was kept dormant until 41, as Sweden was beginning to see that it would not be able to procure improved foreign models as a result of the war, they started another rearmament program to adopt advanced indigenous fighter aircraft.
Accordingly, SAAB blew the dust off of their old twin-boom design and set to work. Earlier on, it was decided to replace the Bristol Taurus with an American Pratt-&-Whitney Twin Wasp, but this was changed when the engine manufacturer Svenska was requested to provide an alternative engine, which was difficult due to the time constraints. Thus, they decided that a licensed engine would be the best course of action. The legendary German Daimler-Benz DB 605 that powered many famous designs was chosen and modified to fit Swedish needs. Three prototypes were completed and its maiden flight was completed in 1942.
The type was delivered in 1945, and a total of 300 models were produced.
Media
Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.
See also
- Related development
External links
| Swedish Aeroplane Company Ltd. (SAAB) | |
|---|---|
| Pre-SAAB: SA / ASJA | |
| SA 'Jaktfalken' | J6B |
| SAAB 17 | B17A · B17B · S17BS |
| SAAB 18 | B18A · B18B · T18B · T18B (57) |
| SAAB 21 | J21A-1 · J21A-2 · A21A-3 · J21RA · A21RB |
| SAAB 29 'Tunnan' | J29A · A29B · J29D · J29F |
| SAAB 32 'Lansen' | J32B · A32A · A32A Röd Adam |
| SAAB 35 'Draken' | J35A · J35D |
| SAAB 37 'Viggen' | JA37C · JA37D · JA37DI · JA37DI F21 · AJ37 · AJS37 |
| SAAB 39 'Gripen' | JAS39A · JAS39C |
| SAAB 105 | SK60B · SAAB-105G |
| License Production | B3C (Ju 86K) |
| Export | SAAB-105OE · J35XS · ▄JAS39C · ◔JAS39EBS HU C |
| Sweden fighters | |
|---|---|
| ASJA | J6B |
| Saab | J21A-1 · J21A-2 · A21A-3 |
| FFVS | J22-A · J22-B |
| Foreign Import | J8A · Iacobi's J8A · J9 Early · J11 · J20 · J26 David · J26 |
| Finland | |
| VL | Mörkö-Morane · VL Myrsky II · VL Pyörremyrsky |
| (NL) Fokker | ▄Fokker D.XXI-3 · ▄Fokker D.XXI |
| (DE) Messerschmitt | ▄Bf 109 G-2 · ▄Bf 109 G-6 Erla · ▄Bf 109 G-6 |
| Other | ▄B-239 · ▄Hurricane Mk I/L |
