Difference between revisions of "Matilda Hedgehog"

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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} British heavy tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "New Power"]] as a reward for [[Battle Pass: Season I]].
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} British heavy tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "New Power"]] as a reward for [[Battle Pass: Season I]].
  
−
The Hedgehog Matilda is an Australian late-war experiment of the early but legendary Matilda infantry tank. The most notable differences from other Matilda, are the presence of a new type of armament in the rear; a Spigot system fitted with the Hedgehog mortars. This mortar was commonly used in naval warfare as an anti-submarine weapon and as such '''is very lethal weaponry if used correctly against tanks'''.
+
The Matilda Hedgehog is an Australian late-war experiment of the early but legendary Matilda infantry tank. The most notable difference from other Matildas is the presence of a new type of armament in the rear; a Spigot system fitted with Hedgehog mortars. This mortar was commonly used in naval warfare as an anti-submarine weapon and as such is very lethal weaponry if used correctly against tanks.
  
−
Along with other minor differences in armour protection and capabilities, the Matilda Hedgehog provides a somewhat of a unique playstyle for any commander in the shape of indirect fire. Although, her playstyle still resembles the other variant already found in the British tech tree, the [[Matilda III]]. The performance could be resumed with the phrase: slow and steady.
+
One of the remarkable flaws of the Matilda Hedgehog over other variants is combat readiness and versatility. This is because the Hedgehog is a situational and limited weapon in tank warfare. The vehicle also loses equipment as the smoke grenade launchers and receives a large weak spot in its rear, as the Hedgehog launcher acts as a large unprotected ammo rack.
  
 
One of the flaws of the Matilda Hedgehog over other variants is the reduced combat readiness and versatility. This is because the Hedgehog mortar is a situational and limited weapon in tank warfare. The vehicle also loses defensive equipment as the smoke grenade launchers and receives a large weak spot in its rear, since the Hedgehog launcher acts as a large unprotected ammo rack.
 
One of the flaws of the Matilda Hedgehog over other variants is the reduced combat readiness and versatility. This is because the Hedgehog mortar is a situational and limited weapon in tank warfare. The vehicle also loses defensive equipment as the smoke grenade launchers and receives a large weak spot in its rear, since the Hedgehog launcher acts as a large unprotected ammo rack.
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=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
−
The uneven and sloped armour protection is generally useful versus most low to medium calibre (40-75 mm) guns in the rank; ''the farther from the target makes it better for the armour.'' The irregular front and sloped side armour configuration on the turret makes it perfect to bounce some poorly aimed shots, yet ''some areas are not sloped at all'' and can be easily penetrated by shells of over 80 mm of penetration in close ranges. This armour has not changed drastically since the Matilda III, however, some noteworthy areas did receive an increase in protection:
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
The uneven and sloped armour protection is generally useful versus most low to medium calibre (40-75 mm) guns in the rank; the farther from the target makes it better for the armour. The irregular front and sloped side armour configuration on the turret makes it perfect to bounce some poorly aimed shots, yet some areas are not sloped at all and can be easily penetrated by shells of over 80 mm of penetration in close ranges. This armour has not changed drastically since the Matilda III, however, some noteworthy areas did receive an increase in protection: the turret ring received an additional armour plate of 40 mm. Extended from the front to the sides and partially reaching the back of the turret ring area. Effectively concealing a good portion of the previously vulnerable turret ring. This armour acts also as spaced armour since the shell needs to penetrate the first plate and then will likely shatter before colliding with the turret ring armour. Flanking tanks like the [[Sd.Kfz.234/2]] will be troubled when firing at this area from the sides or the rear, yet will be easier to just penetrate the turret side armour. Anti-tank assault guns like the [[StuG III F]] will struggle equally when firing at the turret ring. The area under the gun mantlet remains only protected with a sloped armour prone to bounce shells.
  
−
The turret ring received an additional armour plate of 40 mm. Extended from the front to the sides and partially reaching the back of the turret ring area. Effectively concealing a good portion of the previously vulnerable turret ring. This armour acts also as spaced armour since the shell needs to penetrate the first plate and then will likely shatter before colliding with the turret ring armour. Flanking tanks like the [[Sd.Kfz.234/2]] will be troubled when firing at this area from the sides or the rear, yet will be easier to just penetrate the turret side armour. Anti-tank assault guns like the [[StuG III F]] will struggle equally when firing at the turret ring. The area under the gun mantlet remains only protected with a sloped shell-bouncing armour.
+
The commander cupola has been lowered. This reduces effectively the previously noticeable large weak spot on the turret of the Matilda III. While the 75 mm of armour remains unchanged, the flatter cupola is difficult to penetrate.
−
 
 
−
The commander cupola has been lowered. This now obscures more effectively the previously noticeable large weak spot on the turret of the Matilda III. While the 75 mm of armour remains unchanged, the flatter cupola is difficult to penetrate.
 
  
 
Aside from these changes, minor structural armour has been added as fenders and the structure for the Hedgehog mortar system in the rear. This armour is barely effective in countering armour-piercing shells, and might just protect versus powerful HE shells as those on the [[15cm sIG 33 B Sfl]].
 
Aside from these changes, minor structural armour has been added as fenders and the structure for the Hedgehog mortar system in the rear. This armour is barely effective in countering armour-piercing shells, and might just protect versus powerful HE shells as those on the [[15cm sIG 33 B Sfl]].
  
−
{{Notice|Increasing the "Vitality" of the heavy tank crews can increase survivability against spalling and shrapnel.}}
+
{{Notice|Increasing the "Vitality" feature of the tank crew can increase survivability against spalling and shrapnel.}}
  
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
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|}
 
|}
  
−
'''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. -->
 
  
−
* Unlike Matilda III, the cupola roof is 75 mm thick
+
* Unlike the Matilda III, the cupola roof is 75 mm thick
 
* The Hedgehog launcher structure is 5 mm thick
 
* The Hedgehog launcher structure is 5 mm thick
  
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
  
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=294|rbMinHp=168}}With a rounded heavyweight of over 27 tons, Matildas should not be assumed as the fastest vehicles, but one of the heaviest. However, the tank has a double Leyland diesel powerplant that provides 190 HP and is just enough to boost the tank through regular terrain. Maps with lots of ''slopes and rocks will be difficult to overcome'' because of the outpowered engine; is best to avoid intricate shortcuts since if stuck, the Matilda won't be able to get out - Maps like [[Karelia (Ground Forces)|Karelia]] or [[Stalingrad (Ground Forces)|Stalingrad Factory]].
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=294|rbMinHp=168}}
 +
With a rounded heavyweight of over 27 tons, the Matilda isn't the fastest vehicle, but one of the heaviest. However, the tank has a double Leyland diesel powerplant that provides 190 HP and is just enough to boost the tank through regular terrain. Maps with lots of slopes and rocks will be difficult to overcome because of the outpowered engine; is best to avoid intricate shortcuts since if stuck, the Matilda won't be able to get out - Maps like [[Karelia (Ground Forces)|Karelia]] or [[Stalingrad (Ground Forces)|Stalingrad Factory]].
  
−
Fortunately because of the weight, in flat ground, the vehicle keeps a lot of traction and can reach top speed in approximately 17 seconds. This slow top speed suits Matilda's gun stabilization, effectively firing on the move while on cruise gear 1. 
+
Fortunately because of the weight, in flat ground, the vehicle keeps a lot of traction and can reach top speed in approximately 17 seconds. This slow top speed suits Matilda's gun stabilization, effectively firing on the move while on cruise gear 1. As most British tanks on the rank, the reverse leaves a lot to desire. Still, the lack of any smoke cover means using the reverse gearbox is the only way to effectively retreat from frontal engagements without angling. The sluggish nature of the Matilda also sets up the tank for ambushes. 
−
 
 
−
As most British tanks on the rank, the reverse leaves a lot to desire. Still, the lack of any smoke cover means using the reverse gearbox is the only way to effectively retreat from frontal engagements without angling. The sluggish nature of the Matilda also sets up the tank for ambushes. 
 
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
<!-- ''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|QF 2-pounder (40 mm)}}With an average reload of 3.6 seconds, the 40 mm 2-pounder remains a threat for most tanks at the rank. The also decent penetration values and ballistics make Matilda a capable heavy tank in frontal engagements. 
+
{{main|QF 2-pounder (40 mm)}}
 +
With an average reload of 3.6 seconds, the 40 mm 2-pounder remains a threat for most tanks at the rank. The also decent penetration values and ballistics make Matilda a capable heavy tank in frontal engagements. Despite the effectiveness of the gun, the small calibre will usually require a follow-up shot to knock out a tank. 
  
−
Despite the effectiveness of the gun, the small calibre will usually require a follow-up shot to knock out a tank. 
+
The recommended ammunition is the Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T. Because of the overall better penetration values and ballistics. With the auxiliary ammo being either the Shell Mk.2 or the Shell Mk.1 AP/T to counter light targets as anti-air trucks or exposed crew, which are quite common at the rank.
−
 
+
 
−
The recommended ammunition is the Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T. Because of the overall better penetration values and ballistics. With the auxiliary ammo being either the Shell Mk.2 or the Shell Mk.1 AP/T to counter light targets as anti-air trucks or exposed crew, which are quite common at the rank. 
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
|-
 
|-
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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|Hedgehog}}Baptized by its name, the Matilda Hedgehog features an experimental spigot mortar system launching Hedgehog depth charges. These mortars can be widely found in ships like the [[Town (L45)|Town class]] because they were designed for anti-submarine warfare. 
+
{{main|Hedgehog}}
 +
Baptized by its name, the Matilda Hedgehog features an experimental spigot mortar system launching Hedgehog depth charges. These mortars can be widely found in ships like the [[Town (L45)|Town class]] because they were designed for anti-submarine warfare. 
  
−
The Hedgehog mortar now placed behind the Matilda offers lethal explosive ordnance. Yet the death from above by the Hedgehog will be challenging to accomplish.  
+
The Hedgehog mortar now placed behind the Matilda offers lethal explosive ordnance. Yet the death from above by the Hedgehog will be challenging to accomplish. Firstly, the Hedgehog is ''only effective in a default distance of 190 m''. The launcher cannot be raised or lowered to modify the targeting distance. Secondly, the mortars will be launched individually from right to left. Yet they will fall quite close to each other. Depending on the intentions of the player, they might turn the hull while deploying the Hedgehog, to spread the fire.  Lastly, there is available a limited number of mortars (7) and the eventual reload of more inside a capture point will be tediously slow and dangerous. This means the mortar is likely to be a piece of single-use equipment. The mortar rack is also poorly shielded and vulnerable to machine gunfire. If hit, the mortars will likely detonate and disable all of them. 
  
−
Firstly, the Hedgehog is ''only effective in a default distance of 0.19 km'' (190 m). The launcher cannot be raised or lowered to modify the targeting distance.
+
In more positive regards, a single hit of the mortar atop enemy tanks will be destructive. Acting as a small bomb, the mortar will be effective versus light or unarmoured vehicles as half-tracks and open-top vehicles. Armour thickness will not be an issue, since the 80 mm of penetration are enough to take down most tanks in the rank. 
−
 
 
−
 Secondly, the mortars will be launched individually from right to left. Yet they will fall quite close to each other. Depending on the intentions of the player, they might turn the hull while deploying the Hedgehog, to spread the fire.
 
−
 
 
−
Lastly, there is available a limited number of mortars (7) and the eventual reload of more inside a capture point will be tediously slow and dangerous. This means the mortar is likely to be a piece of single-use equipment.
 
  
−
The mortar rack is also poorly shielded and vulnerable to machine gunfire. If hit, the mortars will likely detonate and disable all of them. 
 
−
 
−
In more positive regards, a single hit of the mortar atop enemy tanks will be destructive. Acting as a small bomb, the mortar will be effective versus light or unarmoured vehicles as half-tracks and open-top vehicles. Armour thickness will not be an issue, since the 80 mm of penetration are enough to take down most tanks in the rank. 
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.'' -->
−
{{main|BESA (7.92 mm)}}Albeit relegated to obstacle clearing and last resort anti-air armament, the machine gun can be handy when fighting multiple enemies with exposed crew members, e.g, the [[Sd.Kfz. 6/2]], [[CCKW 353 (M45)]], [[Lvtdgb m/40]] or [[ZiS-30]].  
+
{{main|BESA (7.92 mm)}}
 +
Albeit relegated to obstacle clearing and last resort anti-air armament, the machine gun can be handy when fighting enemies with exposed crew members, e.g, the [[Sd.Kfz. 6/2]], [[CCKW 353 (M45)]], [[Lvtdgb m/40]] or [[ZiS-30]].  
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
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* Identical 40 mm gun to [[Matilda III]], meaning same excellent gun depression, rate of fire and armour penetration
 
* Identical 40 mm gun to [[Matilda III]], meaning same excellent gun depression, rate of fire and armour penetration
−
* Hedgehogs can be lethal versus clusters of unmoving or light vehicles; such as those in close quarters battles
+
* Hedgehogs can be lethal versus clusters of immobile or light vehicles; such as those in close quarters battles
 
* Frontal armour weak spots as the commander's cupola and the turret ring has been reinforced
 
* Frontal armour weak spots as the commander's cupola and the turret ring has been reinforced
  
Line 284: Line 276:
 
== 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 vehicles;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''-->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''-->
Line 292: Line 283:
 
== 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;''
 
* ''other literature.''-->
 
* ''other literature.''-->

Revision as of 18:45, 25 March 2021

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
Matilda Hedgehog
uk_matilda_hedgehog.png
GarageImage Matilda Hedgehog.jpg
Matilda Hedgehog
Britain flag.png Britain
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
2.7 2.7 2.7
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game

Description

The Matilda Hedgehog is a premium gift rank II British heavy tank with a battle rating of 2.7 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced during Update "New Power" as a reward for Battle Pass: Season I.

The Matilda Hedgehog is an Australian late-war experiment of the early but legendary Matilda infantry tank. The most notable difference from other Matildas is the presence of a new type of armament in the rear; a Spigot system fitted with Hedgehog mortars. This mortar was commonly used in naval warfare as an anti-submarine weapon and as such is very lethal weaponry if used correctly against tanks.

One of the remarkable flaws of the Matilda Hedgehog over other variants is combat readiness and versatility. This is because the Hedgehog is a situational and limited weapon in tank warfare. The vehicle also loses equipment as the smoke grenade launchers and receives a large weak spot in its rear, as the Hedgehog launcher acts as a large unprotected ammo rack.

One of the flaws of the Matilda Hedgehog over other variants is the reduced combat readiness and versatility. This is because the Hedgehog mortar is a situational and limited weapon in tank warfare. The vehicle also loses defensive equipment as the smoke grenade launchers and receives a large weak spot in its rear, since the Hedgehog launcher acts as a large unprotected ammo rack.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull75 / 70 / 55
Turret75 / 75 / 75
Crew4 people
Visibility84 %

The uneven and sloped armour protection is generally useful versus most low to medium calibre (40-75 mm) guns in the rank; the farther from the target makes it better for the armour. The irregular front and sloped side armour configuration on the turret makes it perfect to bounce some poorly aimed shots, yet some areas are not sloped at all and can be easily penetrated by shells of over 80 mm of penetration in close ranges. This armour has not changed drastically since the Matilda III, however, some noteworthy areas did receive an increase in protection: the turret ring received an additional armour plate of 40 mm. Extended from the front to the sides and partially reaching the back of the turret ring area. Effectively concealing a good portion of the previously vulnerable turret ring. This armour acts also as spaced armour since the shell needs to penetrate the first plate and then will likely shatter before colliding with the turret ring armour. Flanking tanks like the Sd.Kfz.234/2 will be troubled when firing at this area from the sides or the rear, yet will be easier to just penetrate the turret side armour. Anti-tank assault guns like the StuG III F will struggle equally when firing at the turret ring. The area under the gun mantlet remains only protected with a sloped armour prone to bounce shells.

The commander cupola has been lowered. This reduces effectively the previously noticeable large weak spot on the turret of the Matilda III. While the 75 mm of armour remains unchanged, the flatter cupola is difficult to penetrate.

Aside from these changes, minor structural armour has been added as fenders and the structure for the Hedgehog mortar system in the rear. This armour is barely effective in countering armour-piercing shells, and might just protect versus powerful HE shells as those on the 15cm sIG 33 B Sfl.

Msg-info.png Increasing the "Vitality" feature of the tank crew can increase survivability against spalling and shrapnel.

Armour type:

Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull ___ mm ___ mm Top
___ mm Bottom 		___ mm ___ - ___ mm
Turret ___ - ___ mm Turret front
___ mm Gun mantlet 		___ - ___ mm ___ - ___ mm ___ - ___ mm
Cupola 75 mm All-around
25 mm Base 		75 mm
25 mm Base 		75 mm
25 mm Base 		75 mm

Notes:

  • Unlike the Matilda III, the cupola roof is 75 mm thick
  • The Hedgehog launcher structure is 5 mm thick

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB26 / 5 km/h
RB and SB24 / 4 km/h
Number of gears6 forward
1 back
Weight27.3 t
Engine power
AB363 hp
RB and SB190 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB13.3 hp/t
RB and SB7.0 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 26 5 27.3 294 363 10.77 13.3
Realistic 24 4 168 190 6.15 6.96

With a rounded heavyweight of over 27 tons, the Matilda isn't the fastest vehicle, but one of the heaviest. However, the tank has a double Leyland diesel powerplant that provides 190 HP and is just enough to boost the tank through regular terrain. Maps with lots of slopes and rocks will be difficult to overcome because of the outpowered engine; is best to avoid intricate shortcuts since if stuck, the Matilda won't be able to get out - Maps like Karelia or Stalingrad Factory.

Fortunately because of the weight, in flat ground, the vehicle keeps a lot of traction and can reach top speed in approximately 17 seconds. This slow top speed suits Matilda's gun stabilization, effectively firing on the move while on cruise gear 1. As most British tanks on the rank, the reverse leaves a lot to desire. Still, the lack of any smoke cover means using the reverse gearbox is the only way to effectively retreat from frontal engagements without angling. The sluggish nature of the Matilda also sets up the tank for ambushes. 

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB876 Sl icon.png
RB645 Sl icon.png
SB1 428 Sl icon.png
Crew training3 400 Sl icon.png
Experts23 000 Sl icon.png
Aces160 Ge icon.png
Research Aces380 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 40 / 60 / 80 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 118 / 118 / 118 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Mods tank reinforcement uk.png
Crew Replenishment
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Mods tank ammo.png
40mm_uk_2pdr_APHV_ammo_pack
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Mods tank ammo.png
40mm_uk_2pdr_APHE_ammo_pack
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Mods tank ammo.png
40mm_uk_2pdr_APCBC_ammo_pack

Armaments

Main armament

40 mm QF 2-pounder cannon
Shoulder stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in one plane while moving
Ammunition93 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
3.6 → 2.8 s
Vertical guidance-20° / 20°
Horizontal guidance-150° / 150°
Main article: QF 2-pounder (40 mm)

With an average reload of 3.6 seconds, the 40 mm 2-pounder remains a threat for most tanks at the rank. The also decent penetration values and ballistics make Matilda a capable heavy tank in frontal engagements. Despite the effectiveness of the gun, the small calibre will usually require a follow-up shot to knock out a tank. 

The recommended ammunition is the Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T. Because of the overall better penetration values and ballistics. With the auxiliary ammo being either the Shell Mk.2 or the Shell Mk.1 AP/T to counter light targets as anti-air trucks or exposed crew, which are quite common at the rank.  

40 mm QF 2-pounder Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 93 ±20° ±150° Vertical 16.2 22.4 27.2 30.1 32.0 3.64 3.22 2.97 2.80
Realistic 11.9 14.0 17.0 18.8 20.0

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
Shot Mk.1 AP/T AP 72 68 52 37 27 19
Shell Mk.2 HE 4 4 4 4 4 4
Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T APCBC 89 86 77 66 57 50
Shot Mk.1 APHV/T AP 80 75 58 41 30 21
Shell Mk.1 AP/T APHE 66 62 49 36 26 20
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
Mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive Mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Shot Mk.1 AP/T AP 792 1.08 N/A N/A N/A 47° 60° 65°
Shell Mk.2 HE 687 1.34 0 0.1 85 79° 80° 81°
Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T APCBC 792 1.24 N/A N/A N/A 48° 63° 71°
Shot Mk.1 APHV/T AP 853 1.08 N/A N/A N/A 47° 60° 65°
Shell Mk.1 AP/T APHE 792 1.08 1.2 9 20.9 47° 60° 65°

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
93 __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __ (+__) __

Additional armament

Hedgehog
Ammunition7 rounds
Belt capacity7 rounds
Fire rate90 shots/min
Vertical guidance30° / 45°
Main article: Hedgehog

Baptized by its name, the Matilda Hedgehog features an experimental spigot mortar system launching Hedgehog depth charges. These mortars can be widely found in ships like the Town class because they were designed for anti-submarine warfare. 

The Hedgehog mortar now placed behind the Matilda offers lethal explosive ordnance. Yet the death from above by the Hedgehog will be challenging to accomplish. Firstly, the Hedgehog is only effective in a default distance of 190 m. The launcher cannot be raised or lowered to modify the targeting distance. Secondly, the mortars will be launched individually from right to left. Yet they will fall quite close to each other. Depending on the intentions of the player, they might turn the hull while deploying the Hedgehog, to spread the fire. Lastly, there is available a limited number of mortars (7) and the eventual reload of more inside a capture point will be tediously slow and dangerous. This means the mortar is likely to be a piece of single-use equipment. The mortar rack is also poorly shielded and vulnerable to machine gunfire. If hit, the mortars will likely detonate and disable all of them. 

In more positive regards, a single hit of the mortar atop enemy tanks will be destructive. Acting as a small bomb, the mortar will be effective versus light or unarmoured vehicles as half-tracks and open-top vehicles. Armour thickness will not be an issue, since the 80 mm of penetration are enough to take down most tanks in the rank. 

Hedgehog
Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer
7 +30°/+45° N/A N/A

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
Hedgehog projectile HE 80 80 80 80 80 80
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
Mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive Mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Hedgehog projectile HE 45 29.5 0 0.1 25,280 79° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
7 __ (+__) __

Machine guns

7.92 mm BESA machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition4 050 rounds
Belt capacity225 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main article: BESA (7.92 mm)

Albeit relegated to obstacle clearing and last resort anti-air armament, the machine gun can be handy when fighting enemies with exposed crew members, e.g, the Sd.Kfz. 6/2, CCKW 353 (M45), Lvtdgb m/40 or ZiS-30.

7.92 mm BESA
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 4,000 (225) 600 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

If attacking, the Matilda should take point in the attacking force (if your team will wait for you) and crawl slowly towards the enemy locations with support from your team members. Stop and fire at any target that reveals itself to attack you. When defending, park some distance away from a choke point to a vital area and blast enemies as they try to enter. Remember to maintain team support so that enemies don't try to out manoeuvre you. Make sure to keep a safe distance away from the enemy to maximise the effectiveness of your armour with the shell damage drop-off. Like this, your armour will be very hard to penetrate. At the same time use the 2-pounder gun to attack the enemy. Close-distance fighting is ill-advised as opponents will be able to more easily penetrate the front armour and find weak points. A very important tip to know about the Matilda III is to not go into towns! You will be easily out manoeuvred, allowing your opponents to get close and flank and destroy you.

Opponents that deserve extra attention are the tank destroyers. The two German Marders carry a gun that can easily knock you out at long range, especially the Marder III (H), but those have thin armour, so use that to your advantage. The more armoured German TD, the StuG III, is even more dangerous. The StuG III A carry the short 75 mm that can fire high-penetrating HEAT rounds while its front armour can resist the 2-pounder's shots from a longer distance. The StuG III F is a bigger problem with its longer 75 mm gun and thicker armour, but its high battle rating of 3.7 should make this an uncommon sight. The Matilda will have a hard time to fight the StuGs due to the front armour and inability to manoeuvre to hit the side armour, thus it would be better to leave that to more manoeuvrable team members.

Other tanks to worry about are the more common medium tanks each nation carries from the M4 Shermans, Panzer IVs, and T-34s. These medium tanks have frontal armour able to resist the Matilda's 2-pounder rounds and easily out manoeuvre it as well. The most noteworthy tank to worry about is the Panzer IV with the long 75 mm guns, which can easily destroy your frontal armour.

Unlike Matilda III, this tank has a Hedgehog 183 mm launcher on its back. While it can be useful against clusters of unmoving vehicles, it is highly inaccurate and takes time to get used to. It also makes the Matilda Hedgehog much more vulnerable to flanking attacks, as the launcher can be shot easily, and results in an ammo rack explosion. This can get the tank destroyed by even SPAA vehicles.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Identical 40 mm gun to Matilda III, meaning same excellent gun depression, rate of fire and armour penetration
  • Hedgehogs can be lethal versus clusters of immobile or light vehicles; such as those in close quarters battles
  • Frontal armour weak spots as the commander's cupola and the turret ring has been reinforced

Cons:

  • Poor mobility on all terrains, something retained from its predecessor, the Matilda III
  • Hedgehog launcher cannot be aimed or lowered; this means inaccuracies when firing and a permanent weak spot
  • Overall configuration is unimproved, however firing range is now limited by the Hedgehog launchers and there is no smoke launchers

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

Skins
Images

  • Matilda Hedgehog devblog image.

Videos
Matilda Hedgehog - Getting Gaijined Again [War Thunder] - Napalmratte
Matilda Hedgehog Very Quick Mortar Tutorial - PhantomRiderWT

See also

External links


Britain heavy tanks
Matilda  Matilda III · Matilda Hedgehog
Churchill  Churchill I · Churchill III · Churchill VII · Churchill Crocodile · Churchill NA75 · Black Prince
Post-war  Caernarvon · Conqueror
Other  Independent · Excelsior · TOG II

Britain premium ground vehicles
Light tanks  A13 Mk I (3rd R.T.R.) · A13 Mk II 1939 · AEC Mk II · Crusader "The Saint" · Rooikat 105
Medium tanks  A.C.I · Grant I · Cromwell V (RP-3) · Sherman IC "Trzyniec" · A.C.IV · Comet I "Iron Duke IV"
  Centurion Mk.2 · ▄Strv 81 (RB 52) · Centurion Mk.5 AVRE · Centurion Mk.5/1 · ▄Sho't Kal Dalet · Centurion Action X
  Vijayanta · Khalid · Challenger DS · Challenger 2 OES
Heavy tanks  Independent · Matilda Hedgehog · Excelsior · TOG II · Churchill Crocodile · Black Prince
Tank destroyers  Alecto I · Achilles (65 Rg.) · QF 3.7 Ram

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