Difference between revisions of "A-7K"

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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American strike aircraft {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Sky Guardians"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/8186-event-repair-factory-en|"Repair Factory" event]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a subsonic (originally naval) strike aircraft, produced by Vought Aeronautics Division of LTV Aerospace Corporation. The A-7K was a dual seat variant of the [[A-7D]] built for the USAF; the A-7K specifically for the Air National Guard by lengthening the nose of the aircraft. The A-7K was mostly used for training, with 30 built to supplement the A-7Ds already in service. In the 1980s, several aircraft were equipped with a thermal sight, and this is the variant represented in-game.
 +
 
 +
The A-7K was introduced during [[Update "Sky Guardians"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/8186-event-repair-factory-en|"Repair Factory" event]], and has a large advantage over the tech tree [[A-7D]], as like the [[A-7E]] it gains access to a thermal sight, which makes spotting targets from a distance much more manageable. It has the same anti-tank armament as the A-7D, with access to the [[AGM-65B|Maverick B]] and the [[GBU-8 (2,000 lb)|GBU-8 "Hobo"]]; this means the aircraft is still incapable of using guided munitions at night despite having access to a thermal sight. The anti-air capability is much improved compared to both the D and E variants of the airframe, with the AIM-9L serving as the top air-to-air missile, although at the battle rating the A-7 is placed at these serve purely for self defense.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| ___ || ___ || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._
+
| ___ ||1,123|| __._ ||35|| __._ ||55.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="2" | Allison TF-41-A-1 || 1
+
| colspan="2" | Allison TF-41-A-2 || 1
 
| colspan="3" | 9,196 kg || colspan="3" | 395 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
| colspan="3" | 9,196 kg || colspan="3" | 395 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
|-
 
|-
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
+
! colspan="4" | [[Ballistic Computer]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
 
! CCIP (Guns) !! CCIP (Rockets) !! CCIP (Bombs) !! CCRP (Bombs)
Line 136: Line 138:
  
 
* A choice between two presets:
 
* A choice between two presets:
−
** 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, chin-mounted (1,000 rpg)
+
** 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, chin-mounted (500 rpg)
 
** 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon + 120 x countermeasures
 
** 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon + 120 x countermeasures
  
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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|LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)}}
 
−
{{main|GBU-8 (2,000 lb)|AGM-65B|AIM-9L Sidewinder|AIM-9J Sidewinder}}
 
−
{{main|FFAR Mighty Mouse|BLU-27/B incendiary|GAU-13/A (30 mm)|GAU-4 (20 mm)}}
 
  
−
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance presets:
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! !! width="5%" | 1 !! width="5%" | 2 !! width="5%" | 3 !! width="5%" | 4 !! width="5%" | 5 !! width="5%" | 6 !! width="5%" | 7 !! width="5%" | 8
 +
| rowspan="19" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_A-7D.png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[GAU-4 (20 mm)|20 mm GAU-4]] cannons (1,200 rpg)
 +
| || || 1 || || || 1 || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[GAU-13/A (30 mm)|30 mm GAU-13/A]] cannons (353 rpg)
 +
| || || 1 || || || 1 || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 81 (250 lb)|250 lb LDGP Mk 81]] bombs
 +
| 4, 6 || 6 || || || || || 6 || 4, 6
 +
|-
 +
! [[Mk 81 Snakeye (250 lb)|250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye]] bombs
 +
| 4, 6 || 6 || || || || || 6 || 4, 6
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 82 (500 lb)|500 lb LDGP Mk 82]] bombs
 +
| 4, 6 || 6 || || || || || 6 || 4, 6
 +
|-
 +
! [[Mk 82 Snakeye (500 lb)|500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye]] bombs
 +
| 4, 6 || 6 || || || || || 6 || 4, 6
 +
|-
 +
! [[M117 cone 45 (750 lb)|750 lb M117 cone 45]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 4 || 2 || || || 2 || 4 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 83 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83]] bombs
 +
| 2, 3 || 3 || || || || || 3 || 2, 3
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 84 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[LDGP Mk 84 Air (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[GBU-8 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb GBU-8]] bombs
 +
| || 1 || 1 || || || 1 || 1 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[BLU-27/B incendiary]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || || || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[FFAR Mighty Mouse]] rockets
 +
| 19 || 19 || 19 || || || 19 || 19 || 19
 +
|-
 +
! [[AGM-65B]] missiles
 +
| || 3 || || || || || 3 ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AIM-9J Sidewinder]] missiles
 +
| || || || 1 || 1 || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AIM-9L Sidewinder]] missiles
 +
| || || || 1 || 1 || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! LANA Flir Navigation Pod
 +
| || || 1 || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="9" | Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,260 kg<br>Maximum permissible wing load: 3,630 kg<br>Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 2,900 kg
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
  
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
 +
* 2 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles
 
* 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
 
* 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
−
* 2 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles
 
 
* 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
 
* 24 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (6,000 lb total)
 
* 24 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (6,000 lb total)
 +
* 24 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (6,000 lb total)
 
* 24 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (12,000 lb total)
 
* 24 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (12,000 lb total)
 +
* 24 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (12,000 lb total)
 
* 14 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (10,500 lb total)
 
* 14 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (10,500 lb total)
 
* 12 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (12,000 lb total)
 
* 12 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (12,000 lb total)
 
* 6 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (12,000 lb total)
 
* 6 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (12,000 lb total)
−
* 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-8 (8,000 lb total)
+
* 6 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air bombs (12,000 lb total)
 +
* 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-8 bombs (8,000 lb total)
 
* 6 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
 
* 6 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
−
* 6 x AGM-65B
+
* 6 x AGM-65B missiles
 
* 2 x 20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total)
 
* 2 x 20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total)
 
* 2 x 30 mm GAU-13/A cannons (353 rpg = 706 total)
 
* 2 x 30 mm GAU-13/A cannons (353 rpg = 706 total)
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
−
The A-7K can carry huge amount of suspended armament for ground attack use. Aircraft starts of with up to 24x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs, which is enough to dispose of a base in Air RB. After researching 500 lb Mk 82 bombs the plane is capable of destroying 2 bases with one run. It can also take 14x 750 lb M117, 12x 1000 lb LDGP Mk 83 and 6x 2000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs, which are more useful in Ground RB since they offer larger blast area. For use against ground vehicles the plane can carry 114x FFAR Mighty Mause unguided rockets, 4x GBU-8 TV guided bombs and 6x AGM-65B TV guided air-to-ground missiles. Guided munitions can be used with LANA Flir Navigation Pod, which provides thermal vision over the battlefield, making spotting targets easier. That makes A-7K a very potent CAS option that can bring havoc upon enemy team. Aircraft can also carry 6x BLU-27/B napalm bombs, and for self defense against enemy planes it starts with 2x AIM-9Js, which upgrade to AIM-9Ls. For incresed firepower the plane take 2x GAU-4 20 mm (1200 rounds each) or 2x GAU-13/A 30 mm (353 rounds each) gun pods.
+
The A-7K can carry huge amount of suspended armament for ground attack use. Aircraft starts of with up to 24 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs, which are enough to dispose of a base in Air RB. After researching 24 x 500 lb Mk 82 bombs the plane is capable of destroying 2 bases in one run. It can also take 14 x 750 lb M117, 12 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 and 6 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs, which are more useful in Ground RB since they offer larger blast radii. For use against ground vehicles the plane can carry 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets, 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-8 TV-guided bombs and 6 x AGM-65B TV-guided air-to-ground missiles. Guided munitions are used with the LANA Flir Navigation Pod, which provides thermal vision over the battlefield, making spotting targets easier. That makes the A-7K a very potent CAS option that can bring havoc upon the enemy team. The aircraft can also carry 6 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs, and for self-defense against enemy planes it starts with 2 x AIM-9J air-to-air missiles, which can be upgraded to AIM-9Ls. For increased firepower, the plane can take 2 x 20 mm  GAU-4 gunpods (with 1,200 rounds each) or 2 x 30 mm GAU-13/A gunpods (with 353 rounds each).
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== 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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''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).'' -->
−
Air Realistic Battles
 
  
−
In Air RB the A-7K presents a very limited utility, mainly attacking ground targets. Bases are an option, but low top speed combined with limited manoeuvrability while carring ordinance make it dangerous, as you are an easy target for any fighter that can show up, and friendly planes will almost always get there before you do. Flying to the side low to the ground is recommended, until enemy aircraft will back out or start fighting with your team. Then you can target respawning bases behind the frontline, and once you are done, if you didn't get a chance to do so, you can try to use your missiles to take down enemies, but keep in mind you don't want to start actively fighting. If a fighter decides to target you, strongly consider dropping your ordinance and abandoning bombing run to increase your chances of survival. The strongest enemies you can encounter are MiG-29, F-16 and F-14. There is nothing the A-7K can realistically do to counter those aircraft, so you want to stay unseen as long as it is possible, though the AIM-9L can occasionally get rid of unsuspecting target.  
+
;Air Realistic Battles
 +
 
 +
In Air RB, the A-7K presents a very limited utility, mainly attacking ground targets. Bases are an option, but its low top speed combined with the limited manoeuvrability while carrying ordnance make it a perilous mission, as you are an easy target for any fighter that can show up, and friendly planes will almost always get there before you do. Flying to the side low to the ground is recommended, until enemy aircraft will back out or start fighting with your team. Then you can target respawning bases behind the frontline, and once you are done, if you didn't get a chance to do so, you can try to use your missiles to take down enemies, but keep in mind you don't want to start actively fighting. If a fighter decides to target you, strongly consider dropping your ordnance and abandoning any bombing run to increase your chances of survival. The strongest enemies you can encounter are the MiG-29, F-16 and F-14. There is nothing the A-7K can realistically do to counter those aircraft, so you want to stay unseen as long as it is possible, though the AIM-9L can occasionally get rid of an unsuspecting target.
  
−
Ground Realistic Battles
+
;Ground Realistic Battles
  
−
As a strike aircraft, A-7K is exceptionally well equipped for CAS missions. Guided ordinance with LANA Flir Navigation Pod make a very potent combo, allowing you to keep distance from SPAAGs, though SAM SPAA is still a huge threat, especially Pantsir-S1, as you spawn in within its range. The best thing you can do is fly close to the ground, go to the side of the map and only reveal yourself when you are close to the battlefield. Then you want to quickly spot SPAAs and target them with your AGMs or guided bombs using Navigation Pod. You can also go and check if there are any helicopters up and destroy them so your team can focus more on objectives.
+
As a strike aircraft, the A-7K is exceptionally well equipped for CAS missions. Guided ordnance with LANA Flir navigation pod make a very potent combo, allowing you to keep distance from SPAAGs, though SAM SPAAs are still a huge threat, especially the Pantsir-S1, as you spawn within its range. The best thing you can do is fly close to the ground, go to the side of the map and only reveal yourself when you are close to the battlefield. Then, you want to quickly spot SPAAs and target them with your AGMs or guided bombs using the navigation pod. You can also go and check if there are any helicopters up and destroy them so your team can focus more on objectives.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
−
''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:'''
  
−
* Carries enough ordinance to destroy 2 bases.
+
* Airframe is relatively sturdy
−
* Guided munitions make it very effective for CAS.
+
* Carries enough ordnance to destroy 2 bases
−
* Gets LANA Flir Navigation Pod for spotting ground targets.
+
* Guided munitions make it very effective for CAS
−
* 20 mm M61A1 rotary cannon can shred enemy aircraft.
+
* Gets LANA Flir navigation pod for spotting ground targets
−
* AIM-9Ls can be pretty effective for air combat.
+
* The internal 20 mm M61A1 rotary cannon can shred enemy aircraft
−
* Airframe is relatively sturdy.
+
* AIM-9Ls can be pretty effective for air-to-air combat
−
 
 
−
*
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Poor flight performance.
+
* Poor flight performance
−
* Easy target for enemy aircraft.
+
* Easy target for enemy aircraft
−
* Lacks functional radar.
+
* Lacks a functional radar
−
* Prone to catching on fire.
+
* Prone to catch fire when hit
  
−
*
+
== History ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <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).''-->
 +
[[File:A-7K Corsair II.jpg|alt=A-7K of the 152nd Tactical Fighter Squadron of the Arizona Air National Guard, tail number 73-1008|thumb|A-7K of the 152nd Tactical Fighter Squadron of the Arizona Air National Guard, circa 1989]]
 +
As the United States Air Force was pulling out of South Asia in 1975 at the end of the Vietnam War, the A-7Ds operating there were returned to the United States. The U.S Department of Defence pushed for these Corsair IIs to be transferred to the U.S Air National Guard, as these aircraft were starting to become obsolete in frontline service, and the {{Annotation|LTF|Lightweight Tactical Fighter}}-program was almost finished, which would give the Air Force the [[F-16A|General Dynamics F-16A Falcon]] to replace the A-7D in the frontline attack role. The U.S. Air National Guard, unlike the USAF, would ultimately decide that with the transfer of the A-7Ds, they would require a special two-seat training variant to ensure maximum combat training effectiveness on these "new" aircraft.
  
−
== History ==
+
This special twin-seat training variant designated the A-7K, retained all the features of the base A-7D along with being fully combat capable. The A-7K, and the U.S ANG A-7Ds, would serve for many years more after their "retirement" from the USAF, undergoing a few mid-life upgrades, most famously the {{Annotation|LANA|Low Altitude Night Attack}}-program, which provided the A-7K and A-7D with a new thermal targeting and navigation pod<ref>'''[https://www.vought.org/special/html/sldbrev_3.html A-7D/K LANA Program Overview Status, 9 MAY 1985]'''</ref>.
−
<!-- ''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).''
 
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, 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=a_7k Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 211: Line 279:
 
* ''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.'' -->
−
''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;''
+
;Related development
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[A-7 Corsair II (Family)]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 220: Line 288:
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
  
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
+
* [[wt:en/news/8184-development-repair-factory-a-7k-corsair-ii-en|[Devblog] Repair Factory: A-7K Corsair II]]
−
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
=== References ===
 +
<references />
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
 
{{USA jet aircraft}}
 
{{USA jet aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 10:11, 30 March 2024

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the gift American strike aircraft A-7K. For other versions, see A-7 Corsair II (Family).
A-7K
a_7k.png
GarageImage A-7K.jpg
A-7K
USA flag.png USA
VII Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
11.7 11.3 10.7
Class:
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
MARKET

Description

The A-7K Corsair II is a subsonic (originally naval) strike aircraft, produced by Vought Aeronautics Division of LTV Aerospace Corporation. The A-7K was a dual seat variant of the A-7D built for the USAF; the A-7K specifically for the Air National Guard by lengthening the nose of the aircraft. The A-7K was mostly used for training, with 30 built to supplement the A-7Ds already in service. In the 1980s, several aircraft were equipped with a thermal sight, and this is the variant represented in-game.

The A-7K was introduced during Update "Sky Guardians" as a reward for the "Repair Factory" event, and has a large advantage over the tech tree A-7D, as like the A-7E it gains access to a thermal sight, which makes spotting targets from a distance much more manageable. It has the same anti-tank armament as the A-7D, with access to the Maverick B and the GBU-8 "Hobo"; this means the aircraft is still incapable of using guided munitions at night despite having access to a thermal sight. The anti-air capability is much improved compared to both the D and E variants of the airframe, with the AIM-9L serving as the top air-to-air missile, although at the battle rating the A-7 is placed at these serve purely for self defense.

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 0 m1 123 km/h
Turn time35 s
Max altitude12 497 m
EngineAllison TF-41-A-2
TypeJet
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight19 t

Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.

Characteristics Max speed
(km/h at 0 m - sea level) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 1,114 1,108 12497 35.4 37.0 42.2 41.9 1,000
Upgraded ___ 1,123 __._ 35 __._ 55.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1,254 407 484 457 406 ~10 ~4
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 700 < 690 < 500 -

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
Allison TF-41-A-2 1 9,196 kg 395 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Gross
Weight
Weight (each) Type 15m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 45m fuel 53m fuel
1,592 kg Low-bypass turbofan 10,562 kg 10,910 kg 11,768 kg 13,053 kg 13,748 kg _,___ kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
Condition 100% WEP 15m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 45m fuel 53m fuel MGW
Stationary 4,741 kgf - 0.45 0.43 0.40 0.36 0.34 _.__
Optimal 6,378 kgf
(200 km/h) 		- 0.60 0.58 0.54 0.49 0.46 _.__

Survivability and armour

Flares/Chaff
Aircraft countermeasures to distract IR and radar-guided missiles and also AA radar
Crew2 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear407 km/h

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.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 580 → 4 886 Sl icon.png
RB8 657 → 11 816 Sl icon.png
SB10 849 → 14 808 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications294 000 Rp icon.png
456 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost3 000 Ge icon.png
Crew training270 000 Sl icon.png
Experts950 000 Sl icon.png
Aces3 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 210 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
80 / 330 / 600 % Sl icon.png
244 / 244 / 244 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png
Mods gunpods.png
Gun pod SUU-23/A.
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods heli false thermal targets.png
Flares/Chaff
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk82
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon block rocket.png
LAU-3/A
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods ammo.png
M60_belt_pack
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods gunpods.png
Gun pod GPU-5/A.
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
M117
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods napalm fire bomb.png
BLU-27/B
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
17 000 Sl icon.png
430 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
M60_new_gun
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
GAU_13A_belt_pack
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk83
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
AIM-9L
Research:
12 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
19 000 Sl icon.png
470 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
GAU_13A_new_gun
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
Mk84
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow right 0.png
Mods optical guided bomb.png
GBU-8
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png
40px
AGM-65B
Research:
16 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
25 000 Sl icon.png
630 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Ballistic Computer
CCIP (Guns) CCIP (Rockets) CCIP (Bombs) CCRP (Bombs)
Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png Icon GreenCheckmark.png

Offensive armament

Main article: M61A1 (20 mm)

The A-7K is armed with:

  • A choice between two presets:
    • 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon, chin-mounted (500 rpg)
    • 1 x 20 mm M61A1 cannon + 120 x countermeasures

Suspended armament

The A-7K can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Hardpoints A-7D.png
20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg) 1 1
30 mm GAU-13/A cannons (353 rpg) 1 1
250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs 4, 6 6 6 4, 6
250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs 4, 6 6 6 4, 6
500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs 4, 6 6 6 4, 6
500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs 4, 6 6 6 4, 6
750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs 1 4 2 2 4 1
1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs 2, 3 3 3 2, 3
2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs 1 1 1 1 1 1
2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air bombs 1 1 1 1 1 1
2,000 lb GBU-8 bombs 1 1 1 1
BLU-27/B incendiary bombs 1 1 1 1 1 1
FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets 19 19 19 19 19 19
AGM-65B missiles 3 3
AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles 1 1
AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles 1 1
LANA Flir Navigation Pod 1
Maximum permissible loadout weight: 7,260 kg
Maximum permissible wing load: 3,630 kg
Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 2,900 kg
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 2 x AIM-9J Sidewinder missiles
  • 2 x AIM-9L Sidewinder missiles
  • 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets
  • 24 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs (6,000 lb total)
  • 24 x 250 lb Mk 81 Snakeye bombs (6,000 lb total)
  • 24 x 500 lb LDGP Mk 82 bombs (12,000 lb total)
  • 24 x 500 lb Mk 82 Snakeye bombs (12,000 lb total)
  • 14 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bombs (10,500 lb total)
  • 12 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 bombs (12,000 lb total)
  • 6 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs (12,000 lb total)
  • 6 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 Air bombs (12,000 lb total)
  • 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-8 bombs (8,000 lb total)
  • 6 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs
  • 6 x AGM-65B missiles
  • 2 x 20 mm GAU-4 cannons (1,200 rpg = 2,400 total)
  • 2 x 30 mm GAU-13/A cannons (353 rpg = 706 total)

The A-7K can carry huge amount of suspended armament for ground attack use. Aircraft starts of with up to 24 x 250 lb LDGP Mk 81 bombs, which are enough to dispose of a base in Air RB. After researching 24 x 500 lb Mk 82 bombs the plane is capable of destroying 2 bases in one run. It can also take 14 x 750 lb M117, 12 x 1,000 lb LDGP Mk 83 and 6 x 2,000 lb LDGP Mk 84 bombs, which are more useful in Ground RB since they offer larger blast radii. For use against ground vehicles the plane can carry 114 x FFAR Mighty Mouse rockets, 4 x 2,000 lb GBU-8 TV-guided bombs and 6 x AGM-65B TV-guided air-to-ground missiles. Guided munitions are used with the LANA Flir Navigation Pod, which provides thermal vision over the battlefield, making spotting targets easier. That makes the A-7K a very potent CAS option that can bring havoc upon the enemy team. The aircraft can also carry 6 x BLU-27/B incendiary bombs, and for self-defense against enemy planes it starts with 2 x AIM-9J air-to-air missiles, which can be upgraded to AIM-9Ls. For increased firepower, the plane can take 2 x 20 mm GAU-4 gunpods (with 1,200 rounds each) or 2 x 30 mm GAU-13/A gunpods (with 353 rounds each).

Usage in battles

Air Realistic Battles

In Air RB, the A-7K presents a very limited utility, mainly attacking ground targets. Bases are an option, but its low top speed combined with the limited manoeuvrability while carrying ordnance make it a perilous mission, as you are an easy target for any fighter that can show up, and friendly planes will almost always get there before you do. Flying to the side low to the ground is recommended, until enemy aircraft will back out or start fighting with your team. Then you can target respawning bases behind the frontline, and once you are done, if you didn't get a chance to do so, you can try to use your missiles to take down enemies, but keep in mind you don't want to start actively fighting. If a fighter decides to target you, strongly consider dropping your ordnance and abandoning any bombing run to increase your chances of survival. The strongest enemies you can encounter are the MiG-29, F-16 and F-14. There is nothing the A-7K can realistically do to counter those aircraft, so you want to stay unseen as long as it is possible, though the AIM-9L can occasionally get rid of an unsuspecting target.

Ground Realistic Battles

As a strike aircraft, the A-7K is exceptionally well equipped for CAS missions. Guided ordnance with LANA Flir navigation pod make a very potent combo, allowing you to keep distance from SPAAGs, though SAM SPAAs are still a huge threat, especially the Pantsir-S1, as you spawn within its range. The best thing you can do is fly close to the ground, go to the side of the map and only reveal yourself when you are close to the battlefield. Then, you want to quickly spot SPAAs and target them with your AGMs or guided bombs using the navigation pod. You can also go and check if there are any helicopters up and destroy them so your team can focus more on objectives.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Airframe is relatively sturdy
  • Carries enough ordnance to destroy 2 bases
  • Guided munitions make it very effective for CAS
  • Gets LANA Flir navigation pod for spotting ground targets
  • The internal 20 mm M61A1 rotary cannon can shred enemy aircraft
  • AIM-9Ls can be pretty effective for air-to-air combat

Cons:

  • Poor flight performance
  • Easy target for enemy aircraft
  • Lacks a functional radar
  • Prone to catch fire when hit

History

A-7K of the 152nd Tactical Fighter Squadron of the Arizona Air National Guard, tail number 73-1008
A-7K of the 152nd Tactical Fighter Squadron of the Arizona Air National Guard, circa 1989

As the United States Air Force was pulling out of South Asia in 1975 at the end of the Vietnam War, the A-7Ds operating there were returned to the United States. The U.S Department of Defence pushed for these Corsair IIs to be transferred to the U.S Air National Guard, as these aircraft were starting to become obsolete in frontline service, and the LTF-program was almost finished, which would give the Air Force the General Dynamics F-16A Falcon to replace the A-7D in the frontline attack role. The U.S. Air National Guard, unlike the USAF, would ultimately decide that with the transfer of the A-7Ds, they would require a special two-seat training variant to ensure maximum combat training effectiveness on these "new" aircraft.

This special twin-seat training variant designated the A-7K, retained all the features of the base A-7D along with being fully combat capable. The A-7K, and the U.S ANG A-7Ds, would serve for many years more after their "retirement" from the USAF, undergoing a few mid-life upgrades, most famously the LANA-program, which provided the A-7K and A-7D with a new thermal targeting and navigation pod[1].

Media

Skins

See also

Related development

External links

References

  1. ↑ A-7D/K LANA Program Overview Status, 9 MAY 1985


Chance Vought Aircraft
Fighters 
Corsair  F4U-1A · F4U-1A (USMC) · F4U-1C · F4U-1D · F4U-4 · F4U-4B · F4U-4B VMF-214
Float planes  O3U-1 · OS2U-1 · OS2U-3
Attackers  AU-1
Bombers  SB2U-2 · SB2U-3
Jet aircraft 
Corsair II  A-7D · A-7E · A-7K
Crusader  F8U-2 · F-8E
Export  V-156-B1 · V-156-F · ▄Corsair F Mk II · F4U-7 · ▄F-8E(FN)
Captured  ▅F4U-1A

USA jet aircraft
  Fighters
F9F  F9F-2 · F9F-5 · F9F-8
F-80  F-80A-5 · F-80C-10
F-84  F-84B-26 · F-84F · F-84G-21-RE
F-86  F-86A-5 · F-86F-25 · F-86F-2 · F-86F-35
F-89  F-89B · F-89D
F-100  F-100D
F-104  F-104A · F-104C
F-4  F-4C Phantom II · F-4E Phantom II · F-4J Phantom II · F-4S Phantom II
F-5  F-5A · F-5C · F-5E · F-20A
F-8  F8U-2 · F-8E
F-14  F-14A Early · ▄F-14A IRIAF · F-14B
F-15  F-15A · F-15C MSIP II · F-15E
F-16  F-16A · F-16A ADF · F-16C
Other  P-59A · F2H-2 · F3D-1 · F3H-2 · F4D-1 · F11F-1
  Strike Aircraft
FJ-4  FJ-4B · FJ-4B VMF-232
A-4  A-4B · A-4E Early
A-7  A-7D · A-7E · A-7K
AV-8  AV-8A · AV-8C · AV-8B Plus · AV-8B (NA)
A-10  A-10A · A-10A Late · A-10C
F-111  F-111A · F-111F
Other  A-6E TRAM · F-105D · F-117
  Bombers
B-57  B-57A · B-57B

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