Difference between revisions of "Lancaster B Mk I"

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{{About
 
{{About
−
| about = British heavy bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
|about = British bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = the other version
+
|usage = other versions
−
| link = Lancaster B Mk III
+
|link = Lancaster (Family)
 
}}
 
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=lancaster_mk1
 
|code=lancaster_mk1
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
+
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} British bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.43]].
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} British bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.43]].
  
−
Developed from the troublesome Avro Manchester, the Avro Lancaster is a long-range heavy bomber optimised for delivering huge payload over long distances. Compared to its contemporary like the American [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]] or the German [[Fw 200 C-1|Fw 200]], the Lancaster carries twice the payload while being generally easier to handle. Because of this, the "Lanc" is an ideal bomber for destroying bases and airfields with bombs from high altitude.
+
Developed from the troublesome Avro Manchester, the Avro Lancaster is a long-range heavy bomber optimised for delivering huge payload over long distances. Compared to its contemporaries like the American [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]] or the German [[Fw 200 C-1|Fw 200]], the Lancaster carries twice the payload while being generally easier to handle. Because of this, the "Lanc" is an ideal bomber for destroying bases and airfields with bombs from high altitude.
  
−
Because of the optimization for large payload and good manoeuvrability, the early Lancaster have a very poor set of defensive armaments consists of a small .30 machine guns. This will not help to ward off any pursuing enemy fighters and thus leaving the plane vulnerable to any other planes save for another heavy bomber. On the other hand, the Lancaster's ease of control and overall good flight performance allows the plane to reach the destination relatively quickly and get the job done.
+
Because of the optimization for large payload and good manoeuvrability, the early Lancaster have a very poor set of defensive armaments consists of a small .30 cal machine guns. This will not help to ward off any pursuing enemy fighters and thus leaves the plane vulnerable to any other planes save for another heavy bomber. On the other hand, the Lancaster's ease of control and overall good flight performance allows the plane to reach the destination relatively quickly and get the job done.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 21: Line 21:
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
−
Unlike the other heavy bombers, the Lancaster is surprisingly responsive and easy to handle. While it is not going to win any dogfights, the plane can steer and bank around well enough to adjust the bomb sight for accurate drop. The plane can also maintain its admittedly slow speed quite well, owning to four powerful Merlin engines. This allows the Lancaster to do a shallow descent and reach the base just in time before enemy fighter arrives.
+
Unlike other heavy bombers, the Lancaster is surprisingly responsive and easy to handle. While it is not going to win any dogfights, the plane can steer and bank around well enough to adjust the bomb sight for accurate drop. The plane can also maintain its admittedly slow speed quite well, owning to four powerful Merlin engines. This allows the Lancaster to do a shallow descent and reach the base just in time before enemy fighter arrives.
 +
 
 +
One peculiar characteristic of the Lancaster is its unusually high wing structural limit speed for a heavy bomber, at 600 km/h IAS. This unusual trait allows the Lanc to "dive" towards enemy bases at speed, thus allowing it to be played in high risk, high reward "fast bomber" roles.
 +
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
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{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|G.P. Mk.IV (250 lb)|G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb)|M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I (1,000 lb)|G.P. Mk.I (1,000 lb)|H.C. 4,000 lb Mk.II (4,000 lb)}}
+
{{main|G.P. Mk.IV (250 lb)|G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb)|M.C. Mk.I (250 lb)|M.C. Mk.I (500 lb)|M.C. Mk.I (1,000 lb)}}
 +
{{main|H.C. Mk.II (4,000 lb)|H.C. Mk.II (8,000 lb)|H.C Mk.I (12,000 lb)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
−
* 14 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (3,500 lb total)
+
* 14 x 250 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (3,500 lb total)
−
* 6 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs + 8 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (5,000 lb total)
+
* 14 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (7,000 lb total)
−
* 14 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (7,000 lb total)
+
* 6 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 8 x 250 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (5,000 lb total)
−
* 1 x 1,000 lb G.P. Mk.I bomb + 6 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs + 2 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (4,500 lb total)
+
* 14 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (14,000 lb total)
−
* 6 x 1,000 lb G.P. Mk.I bombs + 3 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (6,750 lb total)
+
* 1 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bomb + 6 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 2 x 250 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (4,500 lb total)
−
* 14 x M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs (14,000 lb total)
+
* 6 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 3 x 250 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (6,750 lb total)
−
* 1 x H.C. 4,000 lb Mk.II bomb + 6 x M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs + 2 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (10,500 lb total)
+
* 1 x 4,000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb (4,000 lb total)
−
* 2 x H.C. 4,000 lb Mk.II bombs (8,000 lb total)
+
* 1 x 4,000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb + 6 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 2 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (10,500 lb total)
 +
* 1 x 8,000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb (8,000 lb total)
 +
* 1 x 8,000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb + 6 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (11,000 lb total)
 +
* 1 x 12,000 lb H.C Mk.I bomb (12,000 lb total)
 +
 
 +
Perhaps the most famous quality of the Lancaster is its huge payload. Though the stock payload of 14 x 500 lb bombs are quite mediocre, the Lanc only requires the "AUBC No.1 Mark II" modification to unlock its most efficient payload; 14 x M.C. 1,000 lb bombs with roughly 6,600 kg of total payload. This massive payload can easily take out two bases even in uptiers and is effective against columns of vehicle and stationary targets.
 +
 
 +
In addition, the Lancaster also has access to the massive "Blockbuster" bombs with devastating explosive power. The 12,000 lb version in particular dethrones the infamous FAB-5000 bomb as the most powerful bomb in the game. With 6,300 kg of TNT equivalent, the bomb can easily destroy a group of vehicles in ground battles or sink a battleship in a single hit in naval battles.
  
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== Defensive armament ===
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* 2 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns, dorsal turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
 
* 2 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns, dorsal turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
 
* 4 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns, tail turret (2,500 rpg = 10,000 total)
 
* 4 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns, tail turret (2,500 rpg = 10,000 total)
 +
 +
Despite its size and payload, the Lancaster has a disproportionally small defensive armaments consists of eight .30 Browing machine guns distributed in one quadruple turret at the tail and two double turrets at the dorsal and nose position. These armaments has very poor damage output against any targets and is practically useless beyond 800 metres range.
 +
 +
However, against some enemies (such as radial engine fighters), these small machine guns can be surprisingly deadly against those who underestimate it, as the guns has good accuracy at close range and relatively good rate of fire, along with the fact that six out of eight guns can be aimed towards the chasing enemy at the rear. With careful aiming at their engine, the guns were capable of knocking it out or setting them on fire providing that enough shots were hit, potentially netting some kill.
 +
 +
On the other hand, the Lanc's limited defensive armaments and coverage can be easily bypassed by simply attacking from anywhere but the tail, leaving the plane with little to no way to fight back. In addition, the gunners and ammo feeding mechanisms of the Lancaster is practically exposed to enemy fire, meaning that it has significant chance of getting knocked out.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
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The safest way to use this bomber is to attack bases from around the map. Do a big circle-around, go to the corner, and aim the nose to the remaining enemy bases. Side climbing is not recommended because of the Lancaster's terrible climb rate; not to mention the ease that enemy fighters like German and American ones can easily reach the bomber even at 7,000 m altitude. Instead stay between 2,500 and 4,000 m and build up speed. Use the Lancaster's amazing payload and drop three of the 1,000 lb bombs onto each base. In the airfield bombing scenario, get altitude not less than 3,000 m and drop all the bombs onto the main runway for better accuracy. Try to stay near friendly fighters for air cover.
 
The safest way to use this bomber is to attack bases from around the map. Do a big circle-around, go to the corner, and aim the nose to the remaining enemy bases. Side climbing is not recommended because of the Lancaster's terrible climb rate; not to mention the ease that enemy fighters like German and American ones can easily reach the bomber even at 7,000 m altitude. Instead stay between 2,500 and 4,000 m and build up speed. Use the Lancaster's amazing payload and drop three of the 1,000 lb bombs onto each base. In the airfield bombing scenario, get altitude not less than 3,000 m and drop all the bombs onto the main runway for better accuracy. Try to stay near friendly fighters for air cover.
 +
 +
On the other hand, the Lancaster can be played as an ad-hoc fast bomber by exploiting its relatively high wing rip speed to quickly dive into the enemy base. As the Lanc has high altitude spawn, one can use this to dive towards the enemy bases and destroy them before the enemy arrives. Though this will also leave you vulnerable to any attackers and interceptors should they spot you earlier, this high risk, high reward tactic will almost guarantee at least one base and potentially two if the enemy does not arrive in time. While in a dive, be sure to watch your IAS to not exceed the wing rip speed of 600 km/h, and throttle down your engine and pull your nose up while near the base to adjust the bomb aim.
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Massive bombload of up to 6 tons
+
* Massive bombload of up to 6 tons, including the Blockbuster bomb
 
* Powerful Merlin engines providing good performance
 
* Powerful Merlin engines providing good performance
 
* Excellent handling and manoeuvrability
 
* Excellent handling and manoeuvrability
−
* Has a total of 4 x 7.7 mm MG facing upper rear area which can be lethal to some targets with careful aiming
+
* 6 x 7.7 mm MG facing upper rear area which can be lethal to some targets with careful aiming
 
* 4 engines means that it can maintain flying ability despite damage to some engines
 
* 4 engines means that it can maintain flying ability despite damage to some engines
 
* H-tail means that if one rudder is shot off, the other one still works
 
* H-tail means that if one rudder is shot off, the other one still works
 +
* Relatively high wing rip speed allows the plane to be played as an improvised fast bomber
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
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* Very low durability
 
* Very low durability
 
* Is a big and slow target
 
* Is a big and slow target
−
* No armour plates protecting gunners
+
* No armour plates protecting gunners and ammo feeding mechanisms
 
* Pathetic defensive armament due to their small calibre and bad damage. Cannot effectively hurt heavily armoured interceptors such as Me 410.
 
* Pathetic defensive armament due to their small calibre and bad damage. Cannot effectively hurt heavily armoured interceptors such as Me 410.
 
* No turret coverage for the belly
 
* No turret coverage for the belly
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<!-- ''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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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 Avro Lancasters is a long-range heavy bomber built and designed by A.V. Roe and Company (or Avro). It was developed as an "upgrade" from the Avro Manchester which was disliked by crews for its difficulty to fly and underpowered engines.
+
The Avro Lancaster is a long-range heavy bomber built and designed by A.V. Roe and Company (or Avro). It was developed as an "upgrade" from the Avro Manchester which was disliked by crews for its difficulty to fly and underpowered engines.
  
 
The Lancaster was designed by Roy Chadwick and first flew on 9th January 1941; entering service in 1942. It was produced by Avro, Armstrong Whitworth, Austin Motors, Metropolitan-Vickers, Vickers Armstrong and Victory Aircraft (for the RCAF)
 
The Lancaster was designed by Roy Chadwick and first flew on 9th January 1941; entering service in 1942. It was produced by Avro, Armstrong Whitworth, Austin Motors, Metropolitan-Vickers, Vickers Armstrong and Victory Aircraft (for the RCAF)
Line 170: Line 190:
 
The Lancaster's long, unobstructed bomb bay enabled it to carry the largest bombs the RAF used (including 4,000, 8,000, 12,000 and - when modified - 22,000 lb bombs). Because of this, it soon became the most widely used British bomber of World War II.
 
The Lancaster's long, unobstructed bomb bay enabled it to carry the largest bombs the RAF used (including 4,000, 8,000, 12,000 and - when modified - 22,000 lb bombs). Because of this, it soon became the most widely used British bomber of World War II.
  
−
No. 617 squadron famously used modified Lancasters during Operation Chastise in raids dams in the Ruhr Valley using Barnes Wallace's Upkeep Mine (or "Bouncing Bomb" as it became known as). This gave 617 squadron the nickname "The Dambusters", sparking the creation of a film by the same name.
+
No. 617 squadron famously used modified Lancasters during Operation Chastise in dam raids in the Ruhr Valley, using Barnes Wallace's Upkeep Mine (or "Bouncing Bomb" as it became known as). This gave 617 squadron the nickname "The Dambusters", sparking the creation of a film by the same name.
  
 
{{break}}
 
{{break}}
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;Skins
 
;Skins
 +
 
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=lancaster_mk1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=lancaster_mk1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== 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;''
 
* ''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.''

Latest revision as of 19:21, 19 October 2023

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the British bomber Lancaster B Mk I. For other versions, see Lancaster (Family).
Lancaster B Mk I
lancaster_mk1.png
GarageImage Lancaster B Mk I.jpg
ArtImage Lancaster B Mk I.jpg
Lancaster B Mk I
Britain flag.png Britain
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
5.0 5.3 5.7
Class:
Research:46 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:155 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Lancaster B Mk I is a rank IV British bomber with a battle rating of 5.0 (AB), 5.3 (RB), and 5.7 (SB). It was introduced in Update 1.43.

Developed from the troublesome Avro Manchester, the Avro Lancaster is a long-range heavy bomber optimised for delivering huge payload over long distances. Compared to its contemporaries like the American B-17 or the German Fw 200, the Lancaster carries twice the payload while being generally easier to handle. Because of this, the "Lanc" is an ideal bomber for destroying bases and airfields with bombs from high altitude.

Because of the optimization for large payload and good manoeuvrability, the early Lancaster have a very poor set of defensive armaments consists of a small .30 cal machine guns. This will not help to ward off any pursuing enemy fighters and thus leaves the plane vulnerable to any other planes save for another heavy bomber. On the other hand, the Lancaster's ease of control and overall good flight performance allows the plane to reach the destination relatively quickly and get the job done.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 3 048 m451 km/h
Turn time42 s
Max altitude7 800 m
Engine4 х Rolls-Royce Merlin-24
Type
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight29 t

Unlike other heavy bombers, the Lancaster is surprisingly responsive and easy to handle. While it is not going to win any dogfights, the plane can steer and bank around well enough to adjust the bomb sight for accurate drop. The plane can also maintain its admittedly slow speed quite well, owning to four powerful Merlin engines. This allows the Lancaster to do a shallow descent and reach the base just in time before enemy fighter arrives.

One peculiar characteristic of the Lancaster is its unusually high wing structural limit speed for a heavy bomber, at 600 km/h IAS. This unusual trait allows the Lanc to "dive" towards enemy bases at speed, thus allowing it to be played in high risk, high reward "fast bomber" roles.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 3,048 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 437 423 7800 43.2 44.4 7.0 6.8 750
Upgraded 465 451 40.9 42.0 10.4 8.6

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 + -
608 338 415 381 282 ~4 ~3
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 400 < 350 < 350 > 350

Survivability and armour

Crew5 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear338 km/h
  • 8 mm Steel plate on each pilot's headrest.
  • 6.35 mm Steel plate behind each engine.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB1 961 → 2 655 Sl icon.png
RB5 429 → 7 350 Sl icon.png
SB9 980 → 13 512 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications40 500 Rp icon.png
78 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 400 Ge icon.png
Crew training45 000 Sl icon.png
Experts155 000 Sl icon.png
Aces820 Ge icon.png
Research Aces440 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
100 / 200 / 460 % Sl icon.png
160 / 160 / 160 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
2 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 400 Sl icon.png
185 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
2 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 400 Sl icon.png
185 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
3 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 600 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
3 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 600 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 000 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 000 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods bulletproof vest.png
Protective vest
Research:
2 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 000 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg303_turret_belt_pack
Research:
2 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 400 Sl icon.png
185 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
AUBC No.1 Mark II
Research:
2 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 400 Sl icon.png
185 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods turret gun.png
bmg303_turret_new_gun
Research:
3 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 600 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
AUBC No.1 Mark I
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 000 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
AUBC No.1 Mark IV
Research:
2 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 000 Sl icon.png
210 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Suspended armament

List of setups (11)
Setup 114 x M.C. 250 lb Mk.I bomb
Setup 28 x M.C. 250 lb Mk.I bomb
6 x M.C. 500 lb Mk.I bomb
Setup 314 x M.C. 500 lb Mk.I bomb
Setup 42 x M.C. 250 lb Mk.I bomb
1 x M.C. 1000 lb Mk.I bomb
6 x M.C. 500 lb Mk.I bomb
Setup 53 x M.C. 250 lb Mk.I bomb
6 x M.C. 1000 lb Mk.I bomb
Setup 614 x M.C. 1000 lb Mk.I bomb
Setup 76 x M.C. 1000 lb Mk.I bomb
2 x G.P. 250 lb Mk.IV bomb
1 x 4000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb
Setup 81 x 4000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb
Setup 96 x G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV bomb
1 x 8000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb
Setup 101 x 8000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb
Setup 111 x 12000 lb H.C Mk.I bomb
Main articles: G.P. Mk.IV (250 lb), G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb), M.C. Mk.I (250 lb), M.C. Mk.I (500 lb), M.C. Mk.I (1,000 lb)
Main articles: H.C. Mk.II (4,000 lb), H.C. Mk.II (8,000 lb), H.C Mk.I (12,000 lb)

The Lancaster B Mk I can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 14 x 250 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (3,500 lb total)
  • 14 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (7,000 lb total)
  • 6 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 8 x 250 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (5,000 lb total)
  • 14 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (14,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bomb + 6 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 2 x 250 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (4,500 lb total)
  • 6 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 3 x 250 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (6,750 lb total)
  • 1 x 4,000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb (4,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 4,000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb + 6 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 2 x 250 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (10,500 lb total)
  • 1 x 8,000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb (8,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 8,000 lb H.C. Mk.II bomb + 6 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (11,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 12,000 lb H.C Mk.I bomb (12,000 lb total)

Perhaps the most famous quality of the Lancaster is its huge payload. Though the stock payload of 14 x 500 lb bombs are quite mediocre, the Lanc only requires the "AUBC No.1 Mark II" modification to unlock its most efficient payload; 14 x M.C. 1,000 lb bombs with roughly 6,600 kg of total payload. This massive payload can easily take out two bases even in uptiers and is effective against columns of vehicle and stationary targets.

In addition, the Lancaster also has access to the massive "Blockbuster" bombs with devastating explosive power. The 12,000 lb version in particular dethrones the infamous FAB-5000 bomb as the most powerful bomb in the game. With 6,300 kg of TNT equivalent, the bomb can easily destroy a group of vehicles in ground battles or sink a battleship in a single hit in naval battles.

Defensive armament

2 х Turret2 x 7.7 mm Browning machine gun
Ammunition2000 rounds
Fire rate1000 shots/min
Turret4 x 7.7 mm Browning machine gun
Ammunition10000 rounds
Fire rate1000 shots/min
Main article: Browning (7.7 mm)

The Lancaster B Mk I is defended by:

  • 2 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns, nose turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
  • 2 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns, dorsal turret (1,000 rpg = 2,000 total)
  • 4 x 7.7 mm Browning machine guns, tail turret (2,500 rpg = 10,000 total)

Despite its size and payload, the Lancaster has a disproportionally small defensive armaments consists of eight .30 Browing machine guns distributed in one quadruple turret at the tail and two double turrets at the dorsal and nose position. These armaments has very poor damage output against any targets and is practically useless beyond 800 metres range.

However, against some enemies (such as radial engine fighters), these small machine guns can be surprisingly deadly against those who underestimate it, as the guns has good accuracy at close range and relatively good rate of fire, along with the fact that six out of eight guns can be aimed towards the chasing enemy at the rear. With careful aiming at their engine, the guns were capable of knocking it out or setting them on fire providing that enough shots were hit, potentially netting some kill.

On the other hand, the Lanc's limited defensive armaments and coverage can be easily bypassed by simply attacking from anywhere but the tail, leaving the plane with little to no way to fight back. In addition, the gunners and ammo feeding mechanisms of the Lancaster is practically exposed to enemy fire, meaning that it has significant chance of getting knocked out.

Usage in battles

The Lancaster carries the heaviest bomb load of any bomber before the American Boeing B-29 Superfortress, at a fantastic 14,000 lb (6,363 kg), and the heaviest of any British bomber in the game. It can quickly end games if left to go about its business. The Lancaster also has relatively good performance and agility for a four-engined heavy bomber, significantly better than both the American B-17 and B-24 bombers.

Unfortunately, the Lancaster is extremely vulnerable if intercepted by enemy fighters. Its defensive armament consists only of .303 in Browning machine guns; while they have a high rate of fire, they are not very lethal to enemy fighters outside of a lucky fire set by the incendiary bullets. In addition, the Lancaster has no ventral turret covering attacks from below due to H2S radar unit (a useless feature in the game). The aircraft itself is not very durable as well and is extremely vulnerable to cannons of 20 mm calibre and larger.

The safest way to use this bomber is to attack bases from around the map. Do a big circle-around, go to the corner, and aim the nose to the remaining enemy bases. Side climbing is not recommended because of the Lancaster's terrible climb rate; not to mention the ease that enemy fighters like German and American ones can easily reach the bomber even at 7,000 m altitude. Instead stay between 2,500 and 4,000 m and build up speed. Use the Lancaster's amazing payload and drop three of the 1,000 lb bombs onto each base. In the airfield bombing scenario, get altitude not less than 3,000 m and drop all the bombs onto the main runway for better accuracy. Try to stay near friendly fighters for air cover.

On the other hand, the Lancaster can be played as an ad-hoc fast bomber by exploiting its relatively high wing rip speed to quickly dive into the enemy base. As the Lanc has high altitude spawn, one can use this to dive towards the enemy bases and destroy them before the enemy arrives. Though this will also leave you vulnerable to any attackers and interceptors should they spot you earlier, this high risk, high reward tactic will almost guarantee at least one base and potentially two if the enemy does not arrive in time. While in a dive, be sure to watch your IAS to not exceed the wing rip speed of 600 km/h, and throttle down your engine and pull your nose up while near the base to adjust the bomb aim.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Massive bombload of up to 6 tons, including the Blockbuster bomb
  • Powerful Merlin engines providing good performance
  • Excellent handling and manoeuvrability
  • 6 x 7.7 mm MG facing upper rear area which can be lethal to some targets with careful aiming
  • 4 engines means that it can maintain flying ability despite damage to some engines
  • H-tail means that if one rudder is shot off, the other one still works
  • Relatively high wing rip speed allows the plane to be played as an improvised fast bomber

Cons:

  • Very low durability
  • Is a big and slow target
  • No armour plates protecting gunners and ammo feeding mechanisms
  • Pathetic defensive armament due to their small calibre and bad damage. Cannot effectively hurt heavily armoured interceptors such as Me 410.
  • No turret coverage for the belly
  • Easily damaged elevators and tail controls

History

The Avro Lancaster is a long-range heavy bomber built and designed by A.V. Roe and Company (or Avro). It was developed as an "upgrade" from the Avro Manchester which was disliked by crews for its difficulty to fly and underpowered engines.

The Lancaster was designed by Roy Chadwick and first flew on 9th January 1941; entering service in 1942. It was produced by Avro, Armstrong Whitworth, Austin Motors, Metropolitan-Vickers, Vickers Armstrong and Victory Aircraft (for the RCAF)

The Lancaster's long, unobstructed bomb bay enabled it to carry the largest bombs the RAF used (including 4,000, 8,000, 12,000 and - when modified - 22,000 lb bombs). Because of this, it soon became the most widely used British bomber of World War II.

No. 617 squadron famously used modified Lancasters during Operation Chastise in dam raids in the Ruhr Valley, using Barnes Wallace's Upkeep Mine (or "Bouncing Bomb" as it became known as). This gave 617 squadron the nickname "The Dambusters", sparking the creation of a film by the same name.


Archive of the in-game description

With RAF Bomber Command's focus being centred on the strategic bombing campaign against German industry, the RAF desperately required a force of heavy bombers to increase the capability provided by their medium bomber fleet. A twin engine Avro Manchester bomber was converted to be powered by four engines and first flown in January 1941. This and subsequent prototypes were deemed to be so successful that the first production variant of the new bomber, now named the Lancaster, was flown in October 1941.

Powered by four Rolls Royce Merlin XX engines rated at 1280 hp, (later upgraded to Merlin 22 or 24s) the Lancaster B.I was capable of reaching speeds of up to 275 mph. With a standard fuel load it could carry 10,000 lbs of bombs over 1,000 miles. The maximum ordnance capacity of the Lancaster was one of the highest of any heavy bomber in World War II: 14,000 lb (6,356 kg). Besides standard bombs, the aircraft could carry an 8,000 lb (3,632 kg) "blockbuster" or two 4,000 lb (1,816 kg) high-explosive "cookie" bombs. Special modifications of the bomber could carry even larger bombs, such as the 22,000 lb 'Grand Slam' bomb. For defence, the Lancaster had eight 0.303 inch Colt-Browning Mk.II machine guns located in three turrets: two guns were located in the nose, two in the dorsal turret, and four in the tail turret. This defensive armament was considerably lighter than that of the Lancaster's US counterparts; it relied on darkness for protection rather than firepower. However, even though on paper the Lancaster was an impressive strategic asset, it still had its weaknesses: whereas the Halifax and Stirling could both claim a crew survival rate of 25% in the event of destruction, the Lancaster could only claim a survival rate of 15% for its crews. 58% of all RAF Lancasters were destroyed in combat; a higher loss percentage than any other British aircraft during the entire war.

The Lancaster was first used operationally in March 1942 by No. 44 Squadron. It soon became the backbone of RAF Bomber Command's offensive against the heart of Germany, but was also used against targets all across occupied Europe. The majority of Lancaster operations took place at night due to RAF Bomber Command's policy of night bombing whilst the bombers of the United States Army Air Force tackled targets by day. The Lancaster became legendary on the night of May 17th 1943 when bombers of No 617 Squadron breached the Mohne and Eder dams in Germany with Barnes Wallis' genius 'bouncing bomb'. Lancasters of Nos 9 and 617 Squadrons also sank the German battleship 'Tirpitz' with 12,000 lb 'Tallboy' bombs, also designed by Wallis.

Over 3,400 Lancaster B.Is were manufactured between November 1941 and March 1946, making it the most numerous of the Avro Lancaster variants. In addition to RAF operations, the Lancaster was also used by the RAAF and RCAF.


Media

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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


Avro Aircraft
Bombers  Lancaster B Mk I · Lancaster B Mk III · Lincoln B Mk II · Shackleton MR.Mk.2
Export/Licensed  Lancaster MR.7

Britain bombers
Torpedo  Swordfish Mk I · Swordfish Mk II · ▄Avenger Mk II
Dive  V-156-B1
Hydroplanes  ▄Catalina Mk IIIa · Sunderland Mk IIIa · Sunderland Mk V
Light  Blenheim Mk IV · Beaufort Mk VIII · ▄Hudson Mk V · Brigand B 1
Based on A20  ▄Havoc Mk I · ▄Boston Mk I · ▄DB-7
Hampden  Hampden Mk I · Hampden TB Mk I
Wellington  Wellington Mk Ic · Wellington Mk Ic/L · Wellington Mk III · Wellington Mk X
Halifax  Halifax B Mk IIIa
Stirling  Stirling B Mk I · Stirling B Mk III
Lancaster  Lancaster B Mk I · Lancaster B Mk III
Lincoln  Lincoln B Mk II
Shackleton  Shackleton MR.Mk.2

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