Difference between revisions of "Do 335 A-0"

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{{Specs-Card|code=do_335a_0}}
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{{About
 +
| about = German strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other versions
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| link = Do 335 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=do_335a_0
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
<!--''In the description, the first part needs to 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 screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''-->
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<!-- ''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_Do335A-0.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.57 "Battle March"]]. This pre-production run does not feature payload options, unlike the [[Do 335 A-1|A-1 series]]. Fortunately, this difference is favourable for the A-0 as it features superior aerodynamics and henceforth better top speed, despite only running on the 50PS weaker DB603A (PS = metric horsepower).
{{break}}
 
The '''Do 335 A-0''' is a Rank IV German heavy fighter with a battle rating of 5.0 (AB) and 5.3 (RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.57 "Battle March." This pre-production run does not feature payload options, unlike the [[Do 335 A-1|A-1 series]]. Fortunately this difference is favourable for the A-0 as it features a superior aerodynamics and henceforth better top speed, despite only running on the 50PS weaker DB603A (PS = metric horsepower).
 
  
Contrary to popular belief, the Do 335 ''"Pfeil"'' is not a "super prop". The initial design was a ''"Schnellbomber"'' ''(speedy bomber)'', but with the start of the emergency fighter program, most bomber contracts were shelved to increase fighter production. At Dornier the idea arose to reconfigure the current bomber design into a heavy fighter to exploit the failure of Focke Wulf's Ta 154 ''"Moskito"''.
+
== General info ==
 +
=== Flight performance ===
 +
Contrary to popular belief, the Do 335 is not a "super prop". The initial design was a "Schnellbomber" (speedy bomber), but with the start of the emergency fighter program, most bomber contracts were shelved to increase fighter production. At Dornier, the idea arose to reconfigure the current bomber design into a heavy fighter to exploit the failure of Focke Wulf's [[Ta 154 A-1|Ta 154]].
  
Consequently flight agility is mediocre, lending itself in feeling to Dornier's previous heavy fighters: [[Do 17 Z-7|Do 17 Z-7]] and [[Do 217 N-1|Do 217N]], both of which were also originally designed as bombers. The exception to this trait is the fantastic roll rate, accomplished by boosted ailerons as seen on the [[Ta 152 H-1|Ta 152 H-1]].
+
Consequently, flight agility is mediocre, lending itself in feeling to Dornier's previous heavy fighters: [[Do 17 Z-7|Do 17 Z-7]] and [[Do 217 N-1|Do 217N]], both of which were also originally designed as bombers. The exception to this trait is the fantastic roll rate, accomplished by boosted ailerons as seen on the [[Ta 152 H-1]].{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
  
== General info ==
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
=== Flight Performance ===
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
<!--''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''-->
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! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 8,400 m)
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
|-
 
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
 
|-
 
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,500 m)
 
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run<br>(meters)
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! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
|-
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
|-
 
| ? || ? || 11,400 || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || 500
 
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
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! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,500 m)
+
! Stock
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
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| 746 || 727 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 28.3 || 29.3 || 8.2 || 8.2 || rowspan="2" | 500
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
 
 
|-
 
|-
! AB
+
! Upgraded
! RB
+
| 805 || 775 || 25.8 || 27.0 || 16.4 || 11.8
! AB
 
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
|-
 
| ? || ? || 11,400 || ??.? || ??.? || ?.? || ?.? || 500
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
====Details====
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==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
! Combat flap
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! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
! Take-off flap
 
! Landing flap
 
! Air brakes
 
! Arrestor gear
 
 
|-
 
|-
| || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
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| X || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
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! colspan="7" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
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! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
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! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
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! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
! +
+
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
! -
 
 
|-
 
|-
| 940 || 270 || 450 || ~7 || ~4
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| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || N/A || 386 || 280 || ~9 || ~4
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
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! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
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! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
 
|-
 
|-
| < 380 || < 380 || < 380 || > 285
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| < 380 || < 340 || < 400 || > 440
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
| 5,700 m || 3,080 hp || 3,508 hp  
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| 7,070 m || 1,440 hp || 1,642 hp
 
|-
 
|-
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 2
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! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Optimal altitude
 
! Optimal altitude
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! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp  
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| 8,300 m || 1,430 hp || 1,630 hp
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 3
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! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp  
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| 9,200 m || 1,420 hp || 1,619 hp
|- -->
+
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== 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. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-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.'' -->
 +
 
 
* 8 mm Steel - fuel tank/pilot seat plate
 
* 8 mm Steel - fuel tank/pilot seat plate
* No armour glazing
+
 
* Critical components located at front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls)
+
=== Modifications and economy ===
* More fuel tanks located in wings near fuselage
+
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-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.''-->
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{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
{{main|MK 103 (30 mm)|MG 151/20 (20 mm)|MG 151/15 (15 mm)}}
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<!-- ''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|MK 103 (30 mm)}}
  
The Do 335 A-0 is armed with:
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
 
* 1 x 30 mm MK 103 cannon, nose-mounted (70 rpg)
 
* 1 x 30 mm MK 103 cannon, nose-mounted (70 rpg)
* A choice between two 20 mm MG 151/20 or two 15 mm MG 151/15:
 
** 2 x 20 mm MG 151/20 cannon, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
 
** 2 x 15 mm MG 151/15 cannon, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
 
  
<!--=== Suspended armament ===
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=== Suspended armament ===
''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|MG 151 (20 mm)|MG 151 (15 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 
 +
* 2 x 15 mm MG 151 cannons, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
 +
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
 +
 
 +
== Usage in battles ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 +
 
 +
Boom & Zoom: While it does not have the capability to turn, accelerate or climb (sustained) quickly as might an energy fighting aircraft, it can be used to make quick, swooping attacks on enemy bombers, and in a limited capacity, fighters. Advantaged by its swift dive acceleration, Boom & Zoom is a viable tactic; however, it should be noted that prolonged engagements with enemy aircraft should be avoided, as energy fighters will quickly deplete its momentum, and turn-fighting aircraft will easily outmanoeuvre this lumbering aircraft. Instead, diving on a target with a lower energy state (it is permissible to engage some slower aircraft in level flight as the 335 can reach speeds well in excess of 450 km/h within seconds of levelling the aircraft out of a climb) and then simply running away and zoom climbing out of range if the target is not killed on the first run is a significant advantage for Do 335 pilots who wish to return home alive. It may take several runs to kill a target, even with the heavy armament possessed by this aircraft, however momentum conservation is a key advantage of the 335, and multiple swooping attack runs disallow slow, "walking" adjustment of fire by bomber turrets, and can deny a turn-fighter an opportunity to attack, and potentially significantly drain them of energy. Targets in a higher energy state (More altitude and/or speed) should not be engaged unless you can ensure that once you have followed through with the attack run, you will be moving fast enough to avoid retaliation by the target.
  
=== Defensive armament ===
+
Made a problematic aircraft to master by its poor manoeuvrability, both anti-bomber operations and ground strafing are a challenging task in this aircraft; however, it does have bomb capacity for 1,000 kg of ordnance and considering its speed, it is moderately capable in the role of a medium or strategic bomber aircraft. Subsequently, the ability to disrupt soft (20 mm) and hard (30 mm) ground targets far away from the initial fighter onslaught does provide some redemption for its poor anti-aircraft capabilities.
''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available remove this subsection.''
 
-->
 
== Usage in the battles ==
 
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but 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).''-->
 
  
===Manual Engine Control===
+
The Do 335's design flaws make it particularly inept at chasing other planes. It is nigh-impossible to try to aim while performing a dive since the nose dances around in all directions and provides no stability to the aiming reticle. Indeed, aiming at the enemy while climbing is prone to the same inaccuracy. Trying to roll the wings to enter a quick dive, e.g. to escape an approaching enemy, is more akin to turning a ship than a heavy fighter. During ground attacks, its inability to aim properly makes more of a "spray and pray" than an accurate firing platform. The most useful approach would be to dive on bombers and attempt to hit with the 30 mm cannon at a distance.
 +
 
 +
====Counter-Tactics====
 +
<!--What to expect, if it would be in command of the enemy and how to counter it. (i.e. They will most likely BnZ, etc.)-->
 +
The Do 335 is fast in a dive but flies like a brick. Out-turning it is easy with almost any fighter. Due to the centre-mounted cannons, it is best to avoid head-on confrontations. Luring the Do 335 into an energy trap is a very effective method of being able to land a hit on the plane, but be cautious as the speed and acceleration of this plane flying level and diving is very good for its size. Most other planes at this BR will have a very hard time to keep up with the Do 335. Lightly firing a few rounds at the plane as it is running will cause them to bleed speed by manoeuvring and can make it easier to catch up. It is not always a good idea to pursue this aircraft even if you are slightly faster, as it will still take quite a while to catch up. This means that they may lure you towards enemy AA, or enemy defensive aircraft. In simulator battles, it is also best to sneak up on this plane before fully opening fire as its visibility to the rear is poor. Crippling the rear engine first will make the Do 335 a much easier target to hunt as speed attributes will be cut in half. Approaching from the bottom is also another very effective method as it is a very wide target from the bottom. The roll rate of the Do 335 is also exceptional, do not lead your shots too far ahead, as you may need to compensate much more and run the risk of losing the Do 335 due to its high speed, it is much more effective to hit the rear of the plane first.
 +
 
 +
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
|-
 
|-
! rowspan="2" |Mixer
+
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" |Pitch
+
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" |Radiator
+
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" |Supercharger
+
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" |Turbocharger
+
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
! Oil
+
! Oil !! Water !! Type
! Water
 
! Type  
 
 
|-
 
|-
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not ontrollable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Combined || Not controllable<br>3 gears || Not controllable
|-
 
|}
 
 
 
===Modules===
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
! Tier
 
! Flight performance
 
! Survivability
 
! Weaponry
 
|-
 
| I
 
| Fuselage Repair, Radiator
 
|
 
| Offensive 20 mm, MG 151 15
 
|-
 
| II
 
| Compressor
 
| Airframe
 
| Offensive 30 mm, Offensive 15 mm
 
|-
 
| III
 
| Wing Repair, Engine
 
|
 
| New 20 mm Cannons
 
|-
 
| IV
 
| Engine Injection
 
| Cover
 
| New 30 mm Cannons, New 15 mm Cannons
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
<!--''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''-->
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
* Excellent top speed at very high altitudes, better than the Me 410 B-6/R3
+
 
* Very fast in a level flight
+
* High top speed at very high altitudes and in a dive
* Great nose mounted armament
+
* Heavy nose-mounted armament
* Great dive top speed
+
* Excellent energy retention and roll rate
* Great energy retention
+
* Access to HVAP rounds for the MK 103 against ground targets
* Great roll rate
+
* Can fly notably well (and even climb) with one engine
* Faster than the Me 410 B-6/R3 which fulfills the same role
+
* Strike aircraft spawn
* Can fly low to hunt tanks and light pillboxes when the MK 103 is equipped with the HVAP rounds
 
* Can fly with one engine
 
* Works incredibly well with MEC (Manual Engine Control)
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
* Compared to the Me 410 B-6/R3 it has fewer cannons, no armor, and it lacks defensive turret.
+
 
* Horrible turn time (can barely out turn a fully upgraded B-25 J-1).
+
* Poor climb rate, handling, and very poor manoeuvrability
* Is a flying brick due to its size
 
* Expensive repair cost
 
 
* No combat flaps
 
* No combat flaps
* Below average climb rate
+
* Poor cockpit visibility, especially to the rear
* Poor durability
+
* Vulnerable to engine damage due to engines mounted in both the front and rear
* Below average top speed at sea level
 
* Landing gear takes a long time to deploy and retract
 
* The nose tends to move when turning
 
* Bars in cockpits hinders visibility
 
* Cockpit lacks rear visibility
 
* Take offs without care can damage the lower rudder
 
* Engines at both at front and rear of the center axis of the aircraft results in virtually an attack from any angle is bound to hit an engine, and thus impairing engine performance
 
* Sharp turns with mouse control will cause the elevator and rudder to over-steer, effectively making the plane less maneuverable as a gun solution won't become immediately apparent.
 
* Prone to fires due to 2 engines
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''-->
+
<!-- ''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).'' -->
Redeveloped as a multi-role fighter in late 1942 after the original design as a bomber was canceled, the Do 335 ''Pfeil'' carried a pair of the largest piston engines Germany created during WWII, the DB603 series of inverted V12. The inline design was intended to give dual-engine power but without the parasitic drag that the usual wing-mounted arrangement suffered. By May of 1944, the Do 335 was recognized as such a superior aircraft, with good handling and unmatched speed, that Hitler ordered maximum priority to be given to its production. But Allied bombing campaigns forced Dornier to bring up a new plant to handle production, and the delay meant less than 30 of the aircraft were built and flown before the end of the war.  
+
Redeveloped as a multi-role fighter in late 1942 after the original design as a bomber was cancelled, the Do 335 ''Pfeil'' carried a pair of the largest piston engines Germany created during WWII, the DB603 series of inverted V12. The inline design was intended to give dual-engine power but without the parasitic drag that the usual wing-mounted arrangement suffered. By May of 1944, the Do 335 was recognized as such a superior aircraft, with good handling and unmatched speed, that Hitler ordered maximum priority to be given to its production. But Allied bombing campaigns forced Dornier to bring up a new plant to handle production, and the delay meant less than 30 of the aircraft were built and flown before the end of the war.
  
 
Only one Do 335 survives today: an A-0 variant, currently on display at the Udvar-Hazy National Air and Space Museum near Dulles Airport in Virginia, USA.
 
Only one Do 335 survives today: an A-0 variant, currently on display at the Udvar-Hazy National Air and Space Museum near Dulles Airport in Virginia, USA.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=do_335a_0 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|INb9VjLxKf0|'''Most unusual aircraft''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 5:02 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}
 +
 
 +
== See also ==
 +
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
  
== Read also ==
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
 
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
<!--''ETC.''-->
 
  
== Sources ==
+
== 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;''
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
* ''other literature.''
+
 
* WT Forum Aircraft Data Sheets: [http://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/303454-dornier-do-335-a-0/ "Dornier Do 335 A-0"]<br />
+
* [[wt:en/devblog/current/864|[Devblog] A Rare Bird - Do 335]]
* Development announcement for update 1.57; WT Forum: [http://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/297541-a-rare-bird-do-335/ "A Rare Bird - Do 335"]
+
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/402957-dornier-do-335/ <nowiki>[WT Forum Datasheet]</nowiki> Dornier Do 335 A-0]
  
{{Germany twin-engine fighters}}
+
{{AirManufacturer Dornier}}
 +
{{Germany strike aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 04:51, 14 July 2023

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the German strike aircraft Do 335 A-0. For other versions, see Do 335 (Family).
do_335a_0.png
GarageImage Do 335 A-0.jpg
Do 335 A-0
AB RB SB
4.3 4.7 5.0
Research:17 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:105 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Do 335 A-0 is a rank III German strike aircraft with a battle rating of 4.3 (AB), 4.7 (RB), and 5.0 (SB). It was introduced in Update 1.57 "Battle March". This pre-production run does not feature payload options, unlike the A-1 series. Fortunately, this difference is favourable for the A-0 as it features superior aerodynamics and henceforth better top speed, despite only running on the 50PS weaker DB603A (PS = metric horsepower).

General info

Flight performance

Contrary to popular belief, the Do 335 is not a "super prop". The initial design was a "Schnellbomber" (speedy bomber), but with the start of the emergency fighter program, most bomber contracts were shelved to increase fighter production. At Dornier, the idea arose to reconfigure the current bomber design into a heavy fighter to exploit the failure of Focke Wulf's Ta 154.

Consequently, flight agility is mediocre, lending itself in feeling to Dornier's previous heavy fighters: Do 17 Z-7 and Do 217N, both of which were also originally designed as bombers. The exception to this trait is the fantastic roll rate, accomplished by boosted ailerons as seen on the Ta 152 H-1.
Max speed
at 8 400 m775 km/h
Turn time27 s
Max altitude11 400 m
EngineDaimler-Benz DB-603A
TypeInline
Cooling systemWater
Take-off weight10 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 8,400 m)
Max altitude
(metres)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(metres/second)
Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 746 727 11400 28.3 29.3 8.2 8.2 500
Upgraded 805 775 25.8 27.0 16.4 11.8

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
945 285 N/A 386 280 ~9 ~4
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 380 < 340 < 400 > 440
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
7,070 m 1,440 hp 1,642 hp
Setting 2
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
8,300 m 1,430 hp 1,630 hp
Setting 3
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
9,200 m 1,420 hp 1,619 hp

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural945 km/h
Gear285 km/h
  • 8 mm Steel - fuel tank/pilot seat plate

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB898 → 1 251 Sl icon.png
RB1 771 → 2 468 Sl icon.png
SB3 480 → 4 851 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications29 800 Rp icon.png
58 100 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 200 Ge icon.png
Crew training30 000 Sl icon.png
Experts105 000 Sl icon.png
Aces590 Ge icon.png
Research Aces360 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
70 / 120 / 440 % Sl icon.png
148 / 148 / 148 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 900 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 900 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
2 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 300 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
2 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 300 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 700 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 700 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
mg15115_belt_pack
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 900 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods ammo.png
mg15120_belt_pack
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 900 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods ammo.png
mk103_belt_pack
Research:
2 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 300 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
mg15115_new_gun
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 700 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
mg15120_new_gun
Research:
1 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 700 Sl icon.png
175 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
mk103_new_gun
Research:
2 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Ammunition70 rounds
Fire rate450 shots/min
Main article: MK 103 (30 mm)

The Do 335 A-0 is armed with:

  • 1 x 30 mm MK 103 cannon, nose-mounted (70 rpg)

Suspended armament

List of setups (2)
Setup 12 x 15 mm MG 151 cannon (ammunition: 400 rounds)
Setup 22 x 20 mm MG 151 cannon (ammunition: 400 rounds)

The Do 335 A-0 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 2 x 15 mm MG 151 cannons, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
  • 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)

Usage in battles

Boom & Zoom: While it does not have the capability to turn, accelerate or climb (sustained) quickly as might an energy fighting aircraft, it can be used to make quick, swooping attacks on enemy bombers, and in a limited capacity, fighters. Advantaged by its swift dive acceleration, Boom & Zoom is a viable tactic; however, it should be noted that prolonged engagements with enemy aircraft should be avoided, as energy fighters will quickly deplete its momentum, and turn-fighting aircraft will easily outmanoeuvre this lumbering aircraft. Instead, diving on a target with a lower energy state (it is permissible to engage some slower aircraft in level flight as the 335 can reach speeds well in excess of 450 km/h within seconds of levelling the aircraft out of a climb) and then simply running away and zoom climbing out of range if the target is not killed on the first run is a significant advantage for Do 335 pilots who wish to return home alive. It may take several runs to kill a target, even with the heavy armament possessed by this aircraft, however momentum conservation is a key advantage of the 335, and multiple swooping attack runs disallow slow, "walking" adjustment of fire by bomber turrets, and can deny a turn-fighter an opportunity to attack, and potentially significantly drain them of energy. Targets in a higher energy state (More altitude and/or speed) should not be engaged unless you can ensure that once you have followed through with the attack run, you will be moving fast enough to avoid retaliation by the target.

Made a problematic aircraft to master by its poor manoeuvrability, both anti-bomber operations and ground strafing are a challenging task in this aircraft; however, it does have bomb capacity for 1,000 kg of ordnance and considering its speed, it is moderately capable in the role of a medium or strategic bomber aircraft. Subsequently, the ability to disrupt soft (20 mm) and hard (30 mm) ground targets far away from the initial fighter onslaught does provide some redemption for its poor anti-aircraft capabilities.

The Do 335's design flaws make it particularly inept at chasing other planes. It is nigh-impossible to try to aim while performing a dive since the nose dances around in all directions and provides no stability to the aiming reticle. Indeed, aiming at the enemy while climbing is prone to the same inaccuracy. Trying to roll the wings to enter a quick dive, e.g. to escape an approaching enemy, is more akin to turning a ship than a heavy fighter. During ground attacks, its inability to aim properly makes more of a "spray and pray" than an accurate firing platform. The most useful approach would be to dive on bombers and attempt to hit with the 30 mm cannon at a distance.

Counter-Tactics

The Do 335 is fast in a dive but flies like a brick. Out-turning it is easy with almost any fighter. Due to the centre-mounted cannons, it is best to avoid head-on confrontations. Luring the Do 335 into an energy trap is a very effective method of being able to land a hit on the plane, but be cautious as the speed and acceleration of this plane flying level and diving is very good for its size. Most other planes at this BR will have a very hard time to keep up with the Do 335. Lightly firing a few rounds at the plane as it is running will cause them to bleed speed by manoeuvring and can make it easier to catch up. It is not always a good idea to pursue this aircraft even if you are slightly faster, as it will still take quite a while to catch up. This means that they may lure you towards enemy AA, or enemy defensive aircraft. In simulator battles, it is also best to sneak up on this plane before fully opening fire as its visibility to the rear is poor. Crippling the rear engine first will make the Do 335 a much easier target to hunt as speed attributes will be cut in half. Approaching from the bottom is also another very effective method as it is a very wide target from the bottom. The roll rate of the Do 335 is also exceptional, do not lead your shots too far ahead, as you may need to compensate much more and run the risk of losing the Do 335 due to its high speed, it is much more effective to hit the rear of the plane first.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Not controllable Controllable
Auto control available
Not controllable
Not auto controlled
Controllable
Auto control available
Combined Not controllable
3 gears
Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High top speed at very high altitudes and in a dive
  • Heavy nose-mounted armament
  • Excellent energy retention and roll rate
  • Access to HVAP rounds for the MK 103 against ground targets
  • Can fly notably well (and even climb) with one engine
  • Strike aircraft spawn

Cons:

  • Poor climb rate, handling, and very poor manoeuvrability
  • No combat flaps
  • Poor cockpit visibility, especially to the rear
  • Vulnerable to engine damage due to engines mounted in both the front and rear

History

Redeveloped as a multi-role fighter in late 1942 after the original design as a bomber was cancelled, the Do 335 Pfeil carried a pair of the largest piston engines Germany created during WWII, the DB603 series of inverted V12. The inline design was intended to give dual-engine power but without the parasitic drag that the usual wing-mounted arrangement suffered. By May of 1944, the Do 335 was recognized as such a superior aircraft, with good handling and unmatched speed, that Hitler ordered maximum priority to be given to its production. But Allied bombing campaigns forced Dornier to bring up a new plant to handle production, and the delay meant less than 30 of the aircraft were built and flown before the end of the war.

Only one Do 335 survives today: an A-0 variant, currently on display at the Udvar-Hazy National Air and Space Museum near Dulles Airport in Virginia, USA.

Media

Skins
Videos

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links


Dornier Aircraft Corporation (Dornier Flugzeugwerke)
Fighters  Do 17 Z-7
  Do 217 J-1 · Do 217 J-2 · Do 217 N-1 · Do 217 N-2
  Do 335 A-0 · Do 335 A-1 · Do 335 B-2
Bombers  Do 17 E-1 · Do 17 Z-2
  Do 217 E-2 · Do 217 E-4 · Do 217 K-1 · Do 217 M-1
Jet Aircraft  Alpha Jet A**
Helicopters  ◄UH-1D*
  *Licensed
  **Jointly manufactured with Dassault Aviation

Germany strike aircraft
Messerschmitt 
Bf 110  Bf 110 C-6 · Bf 110 C-7 · Bf 110 F-2 · Bf 110 G-2 · Bf 110 G-4
Me 410  Me 410 A-1 · Me 410 A-1/U4 · Me 410 B-1 · Me 410 B-2/U4 · Me 410 B-6/R3
Dornier 
Do 335  Do 335 A-0 · Do 335 A-1 · Do 335 B-2
Focke-Wulf 
Fw 190  Fw 190 F-8
Heinkel 
He 219  He 219 A-7
Henschel 
Hs 129  Hs 129 B-2 · Hs 129 B-2 (Romania) · Hs 129 B-3
Junkers 
Ju 87  Ju 87 G-1 · Ju 87 G-2
  Foreign:
USSR  ▀IL-2 (1942)