Difference between revisions of "Ki-48-II otsu"

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(Will incorporate into my next edit. This one reverted all my changes, I will revert to previous. Moderator please approve.)
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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 premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese frontline bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Sons of Attila"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/8494-event-tokushu-heiki-assemble-and-test-an-honorable-missile-to-obtain-prizes-en|2023 Tokushu Heiki event]]. The Ki-48 series of aircraft was an early-war Japanese light bomber, and was used successfully in the war against China. It was used to bomb critical supply lines and Chinese infrastructure during the land invasion of China. Pilots noted the plane for being fast enough to escape interception. The Ki-48-II otsu is currently the only propeller driven aircraft than can carry a guided missile, the [[Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B|Ki-148]], and serves as a very unique collectible from the Missile Workshop event. At a BR of 2.3, the enemy tanks you will be facing have little armor, and the Ki-148's warhead with 130kg of TNT will make short work of enemy units. The enemy aircraft at this BR won't be much of a threat when the Ki-48 is in the hands of an experienced pilot. Its high speed allows it to run away from danger, and two gunners in the rear can help pick persistent fighters off of your six.
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese frontline bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "Sons of Attila"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/8494-event-tokushu-heiki-assemble-and-test-an-honorable-missile-to-obtain-prizes-en|2023 Tokushu Heiki event]].
 +
 
 +
The Ki-48 was an early-war Japanese light bomber, and was used successfully in the war against China. It was used to bomb critical supply lines and Chinese infrastructure during the land invasion of China. Pilots noted the plane for being fast enough to escape interception. The Ki-48-II otsu is currently the only propeller-driven aircraft than can carry a guided missile, the [[Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B|Ki-148]], and serves as a very unique collectible from the Missile Workshop event. At its battle rating, the enemy tanks you will be facing have little armour, and the Ki-148's 130 kg of TNT warhead will make short work of enemy units. The enemy aircraft at this BR won't be much of a threat when the Ki-48 is in the hands of an experienced pilot. Its high speed allows it to run away from danger, and two gunners in the rear can help pick persistent fighters off of your six.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
 +
{{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.'' -->
−
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
  
−
A very typical Japanese frontline bomber in regards to its flight performance. It is incredibly maneuverable, especially after dispatching the suspended ordnance. It has a low stall speed, and has a comparatively high top speed for its Battle Rating. The Ki-48 has a somewhat sluggish roll rate when using the ailerons alone, so some assistance from the rudder may be required when performing quick turns.  
+
The Ki-48 is a very typical Japanese frontline bomber in regards to its flight performance. It is incredibly manoeuvrable, especially after dispatching the suspended ordnance. It has a low stall speed, and has a comparatively high top speed for its Battle Rating. The Ki-48 has a somewhat sluggish roll rate when using the ailerons alone, so some assistance from the rudder may be required when performing quick turns.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
The Ki-48 has above average armor for its BR and role. It has substantially more armor than other Japanese bombers at its tier, and is fully equipped with self-sealing fuel tanks. Additionally, all of its fuel tanks are mounted towards the center of the aircraft, making wing fires extremely unlikely, and giving the plane good survivability. The gunners on this plane are decently protected from attackers coming at you on your six.
+
The Ki-48 has above average armour for its BR and role. It has substantially more armour than other Japanese bombers at its tier, and is fully equipped with self-sealing fuel tanks. Additionally, all of its fuel tanks are mounted towards the center of the aircraft, making wing fires extremely unlikely, and giving the plane good survivability. The gunners on this plane are decently protected from attackers coming at you from your six.
  
−
====== Armor Components Include: ======
+
'''Armour components include:'''
−
Three 16.5mm Steel Plates:
 
  
−
* One under the pilot, protecting him from attacks from enemy SPAAs
+
* Three 16.5 mm steel plates:
−
* One protecting the ventral gunner from fighters on your six
+
** One as seat armour: protecting the pilot from small calibre rounds from behind
−
* One protecting the dorsal gunner from fighters on your six
+
** One protecting the ventral gunner from fighters on your six
 +
** One protecting the dorsal gunner from fighters on your six
 +
* One 12.5 mm steel plate: protecting the pilot from head-on attacks.
 +
* Two 6.5 mm steel plates under the pilot, protecting him from attacks from enemy SPAAs
  
−
One 12.5mm Steel Plate: protecting the pilot from head-on attacks.
+
The small self-sealing tanks, the armour, and the small engine cooling system make the Ki-48 a very survivable medium bomber, especially for Japanese standards.
−
 
 
−
One 6.5mm Steel Plate as Seat Armor: protecting the pilot from small caliber rounds from behind
 
−
 
 
−
The small self-sealing tanks, the armor, and the small engine cooling system make the Ki-48 a very survivable medium bomber, especially for Japanese standards.
 
  
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
−
{{main|Type 98 (7.92 mm)}}
+
{{main|Type 1 (7.92 mm)|Type 98 (7.92 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
  
−
* 1 x 7.92 mm Type 98 machine gun, dorsal turret (1,000 rpg)
+
* 1 x 7.92 mm Type 1 machine gun, dorsal turret (1,000 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.92 mm Type 98 machine gun, ventral turret (675 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.92 mm Type 98 machine gun, ventral turret (675 rpg)
  
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<!-- ''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).'' -->
  
−
The Ki-48-II Otsu can be used as a frontline bomber in Air Battles, owing to its high top speed, its exceptional maneuverability (for a bomber), and its small profile. It is able to quickly deliver ordnance to frontline units and dispatch them with ease. However, enemy fighters will make short work of you if they are faster, so it is advisable to flee the area as soon as all ordnance is spent. The Ki-48-II Otsu shines in mixed battles, because of its unique armament capabilities.  
+
The Ki-48-II Otsu can be used as a frontline bomber in Air Battles, owing to its high top speed, its exceptional manoeuvrability (for a bomber), and its small profile. It is able to quickly deliver ordnance to frontline units and dispatch them with ease. However, enemy fighters will make short work of you if they are faster, so it is advisable to flee the area as soon as all ordnance is spent. The Ki-48-II Otsu shines in mixed battles, because of its unique armament capabilities.
  
−
In Naval and Ground Battles, the Ki-48-II Otsu has the ability to equip the [[Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B]], a manually-guided cruise missile with 130kg of TNT. Mounted under the fuselage, the missile adds a large amount of weight and drag, meaning that the pilot needs to find a target as quickly as possible to avoid being a target for interception.  
+
For Naval and Ground Battles, the Ki-48-II Otsu has the ability to equip the [[Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B]], a manually-guided cruise missile with 130 kg of TNT. Mounted under the fuselage, the missile adds a large amount of weight and drag, meaning that the pilot needs to find a target as quickly as possible to avoid being a target for interception.
  
 
==== Using the Ki-148 ====
 
==== Using the Ki-148 ====
−
One will note that it is rather difficult to control the missile due to its natural tendency to pitch up at its maximum speed. Additionally, the visual control because increasingly difficult as the missile gets farther away from the aircraft. The pilot must keep the line of sight on the missile at all times to ensure it hits the target. This prevents the Ki-48 from taking evasive action whilst guiding the cruise missile. One trick to keeping the line of sight on the missile is to go into the gunner view, hover the crosshair on the target, and direct the missile to the crosshair. Launching the missile is relatively complicated due to the missile being unable to stay in front of the aircraft when dropped at too low of a speed or too high of an angle. Your best bet is to launch the missile less than 2 miles (3.5km) away from the target at speeds exceeding 225mph (375kph) to avoid being the missile lagging behind. If there is anti-air defense up, prioritize targeting it from farther away, to avoid being hit whilst guiding the missile.  
+
One will note that it is rather difficult to control the missile due to its natural tendency to pitch up at its maximum speed. Additionally, the visual control because increasingly difficult as the missile gets farther away from the aircraft. The pilot must keep the line of sight on the missile at all times to ensure it hits the target. This prevents the Ki-48 from taking evasive action whilst guiding the cruise missile. One trick to keeping the line of sight on the missile is to go into the gunner view, hover the crosshair on the target, and direct the missile to the crosshair. Launching the missile is relatively complicated due to the missile being unable to stay in front of the aircraft when dropped at too low of a speed or too high of an angle. Your best bet is to launch the missile less than 2 miles (3.5 km) away from the target at speeds exceeding 225 mph (375 km/h) to avoid being the missile lagging behind. If there is anti-air defense up, prioritize targeting it from farther away, to avoid being hit whilst guiding the missile. It's a good idea to cut throttle to 50% or less, to allow the missile to overtake the plane and to avoid approaching the target too quickly. This is especially useful when attacking groups of SPAAs, as they usually congregate near spawn and are closely packed together. Launch even farther away than normal, so they won't be able to hit you while guiding the missile.
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
+
! colspan="8" | MEC elements
 
|-
 
|-
 
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
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! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 +
! rowspan="2" |Magneto
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
 
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
 +
|Controllable
 +
Not auto controlled
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
 +
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
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* Good handling characteristics
 
* Good handling characteristics
 
* Wide turret coverage in the rear
 
* Wide turret coverage in the rear
−
* Decent survivability, additionally there is armor to protect the gunners and pilot
+
* Decent survivability, additionally there is armour to protect the gunners and pilot
 
* Able to fly back to base on one engine
 
* Able to fly back to base on one engine
 
* Engines will not overheat quickly, good power
 
* Engines will not overheat quickly, good power
−
* Premium bonuses
 
 
* Well detailed cockpit
 
* Well detailed cockpit
  
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* Weak defensive armament
 
* Weak defensive armament
−
* Low bomb compacity
+
* Low bomb capacity
 
* Lacks a bombsight
 
* Lacks a bombsight
 
* No turret coverage in the front of the aircraft
 
* No turret coverage in the front of the aircraft
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== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <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 Ki-48 served in China from late 1940, replacing the Kawasaki [[Ki-32]], and were widely used in the Philippines, Malaya, Burma, New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and the Dutch East Indies, where the Ki-48 Ia and Ib models, slow and poorly armed, were supplemented by the marginally improved Ki-48 IIa and IIc, which were maintained in service along with the older types until the end of the war.
+
The Ki-48 served in China from late 1940, replacing the Kawasaki [[Ki-32]], and were widely used in the Philippines, Malaya, Burma, New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and the Dutch East Indies, where the Ki-48 Ia and Ib models, slow and poorly armed, were supplemented by the marginally improved Ki-48 IIa and IIc, which were maintained in service along with the older types until the end of the war.
  
−
All models continued in service until the Battle of Okinawa during April 1945, when many were converted into kamikaze aircraft (Ki-48-II KAI Tai-Atari) armed with an 800 kg (1,760 lb) bomb. Some aircraft were modified to act as testbeds; one carried the Kawasaki Ki-148 guided missile intended for use on the Kawasaki Ki-102 in late 1944, and one was modified to test a Ne-0 pulsejet engine in late 1944 to early 1945.
+
All models continued in service until the Battle of Okinawa during April 1945, when many were converted into kamikaze aircraft (Ki-48-II KAI Tai-Atari) armed with an 800 kg (1,760 lb) bomb. Some aircraft were modified to act as testbeds; one carried the Kawasaki Ki-148 guided missile intended for use on the Kawasaki Ki-102 in late 1944, and one was modified to test a Ne-0 pulsejet engine in late 1944 to early 1945.
  
−
The fact that all models continued in service until 1945 reflects that many Ki-48s survived more often than not. This was due to the use of small ship formations (three to ten aircraft) escorted by large numbers of fighters (25–75), typically Nakajima Ki-43s. Although not as fast as more modern fighters, after 1942, the aircraft was still fast enough to enable it to often avoid interception unless it ran into a standing patrol of fighters.<sup>[citation needed]</sup> The 90th Air Regiment of the 5th Air Army (based in Hopei, north China) equipped with Ki-48s was the only Japanese air unit in China proper to engage the Soviets, although others were advanced in preparation. It flew 20 sorties against the Soviets during 14 August 1945.
+
The fact that all models continued in service until 1945 reflects that many Ki-48s survived more often than not. This was due to the use of small ship formations (three to ten aircraft) escorted by large numbers of fighters (25–75), typically Nakajima Ki-43s. Although not as fast as more modern fighters, after 1942, the aircraft was still fast enough to enable it to often avoid interception unless it ran into a standing patrol of fighters.<sup>[citation needed]</sup> The 90th Air Regiment of the 5th Air Army (based in Hopei, north China) equipped with Ki-48s was the only Japanese air unit in China proper to engage the Soviets, although others were advanced in preparation. It flew 20 sorties against the Soviets during 14 August 1945.
  
 
'''As a testbed for the Ki-148'''
 
'''As a testbed for the Ki-148'''
  
−
About 180 Ki-148 Missiles were built to defend the Japanese mainland for the anticipated land invasion. Although the Ki-148 was designed to be launched from [[Ki-102 otsu|Ki-102]] Strike fighters, the Japanese Army Air Force needed to sufficiently test and deploy missiles before they could be used in combat. The Ki-48-II Otsu was the aircraft selected to launch and test these missiles. In late 1944, A Ki-48-II was modified with a missile control system and the bomb bay was removed, and trials with the Ki-148 commenced. The missile turned out to be successful, more so than its larger counterpart, the Ki-147.
+
About 180 Ki-148 Missiles were built to defend the Japanese mainland for the anticipated land invasion. Although the Ki-148 was designed to be launched from [[Ki-102 otsu|Ki-102]] Strike fighters, the Japanese Army Air Service needed to sufficiently test and deploy missiles before they could be used in combat. The Ki-48-II Otsu was the aircraft selected to launch and test these missiles. In late 1944, A Ki-48-II was modified with a missile control system and the bomb bay was removed, and trials with the Ki-148 commenced. The missile turned out to be successful, more so than its larger counterpart, the Ki-147.
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
{{Youtube-gallery|bzFaOt1Cc_U|'''Ki-48-II Otsu in War Thunder''' - ''Tim's Variety War Thunder''|MXCd8-LSYsc|'''Ki-48-II otsu Lowtier ATGM''' - ''CaptainTonyYT''|ytjEDa9-Jqg|''Ki-48 Otsu II + HONOUR MISSILE!
+
 
−
''' - ''demologic76''}}
+
;Skins
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ki_48_2_otsu Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|iaufXbHC0VU|'''The Shooting Range #377''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:27 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|bzFaOt1Cc_U|'''Ki-48-II Otsu''' - ''Tim's Variety War Thunder''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''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.'' -->
−
* [[Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B]],  the Cruise Missile that the Ki-48 is able to carry
+
 
 
* [[Ki-49-I|Ki-49]], a similar frontline bomber
 
* [[Ki-49-I|Ki-49]], a similar frontline bomber
  
Line 194: Line 201:
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
The Ki-48-II Otsu is subject to change thanks to many players historical reports. Here are some articles for more information on potential upcoming changes:
 
  
−
* [https://community.gaijin.net/issues/p/warthunder/i/hUBRdJHgCjSJ Armor Thickness]
+
* [[wt:en/news/8492-development-tokushu-heiki-ki-48-ii-otsu-ki-148-missile-en|[Devblog] Tokushu Heiki: Ki-48-II Otsu & Ki-148 Missile]]
−
* [https://community.gaijin.net/issues/p/warthunder/i/yFOx42Nh96yL Machine Guns for the gunners]
 
−
* [https://community.gaijin.net/issues/p/warthunder/i/u0bMiWx108uN Airbrakes/Divebrakes]
 
−
* [https://community.gaijin.net/issues/p/warthunder/i/3m0Z3tZh9w3m Bomb Bay Doors]
 
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Kawasaki}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Kawasaki}}
 
{{Japan bombers}}
 
{{Japan bombers}}
 
{{Japan premium aircraft}}
 
{{Japan premium aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 07:28, 28 August 2024

Ki-48-II otsu
ki_48_2_otsu.png
GarageImage Ki-48-II otsu.jpg
Ki-48-II otsu
Japan flag.png Japan
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
2.3 2.3 2.3
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
MARKET

Description

The Ki-48-II otsu is a premium gift rank II Japanese frontline bomber with a battle rating of 2.3 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced during Update "Sons of Attila" as a reward for the 2023 Tokushu Heiki event.

The Ki-48 was an early-war Japanese light bomber, and was used successfully in the war against China. It was used to bomb critical supply lines and Chinese infrastructure during the land invasion of China. Pilots noted the plane for being fast enough to escape interception. The Ki-48-II otsu is currently the only propeller-driven aircraft than can carry a guided missile, the Ki-148, and serves as a very unique collectible from the Missile Workshop event. At its battle rating, the enemy tanks you will be facing have little armour, and the Ki-148's 130 kg of TNT warhead will make short work of enemy units. The enemy aircraft at this BR won't be much of a threat when the Ki-48 is in the hands of an experienced pilot. Its high speed allows it to run away from danger, and two gunners in the rear can help pick persistent fighters off of your six.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 6 200 m499 km/h
Turn time28 s
Max altitude9 300 m
Engine2 х Nakajima Ha-115
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight7 t

The Ki-48 is a very typical Japanese frontline bomber in regards to its flight performance. It is incredibly manoeuvrable, especially after dispatching the suspended ordnance. It has a low stall speed, and has a comparatively high top speed for its Battle Rating. The Ki-48 has a somewhat sluggish roll rate when using the ailerons alone, so some assistance from the rudder may be required when performing quick turns.

Characteristics Max speed
(km/h at 6,200 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock ___ ___ 9300 __._ __._ __._ __._ 600
Upgraded 520 499 27.1 28.0 14.1 10.6

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 + -
650 300 428 400 250 ~10 ~3
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 360 < 360 < 360 > 300

Survivability and armour

Crew5 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear300 km/h

The Ki-48 has above average armour for its BR and role. It has substantially more armour than other Japanese bombers at its tier, and is fully equipped with self-sealing fuel tanks. Additionally, all of its fuel tanks are mounted towards the center of the aircraft, making wing fires extremely unlikely, and giving the plane good survivability. The gunners on this plane are decently protected from attackers coming at you from your six.

Armour components include:

  • Three 16.5 mm steel plates:
    • One as seat armour: protecting the pilot from small calibre rounds from behind
    • One protecting the ventral gunner from fighters on your six
    • One protecting the dorsal gunner from fighters on your six
  • One 12.5 mm steel plate: protecting the pilot from head-on attacks.
  • Two 6.5 mm steel plates under the pilot, protecting him from attacks from enemy SPAAs

The small self-sealing tanks, the armour, and the small engine cooling system make the Ki-48 a very survivable medium bomber, especially for Japanese standards.

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB336 Sl icon.png
RB523 Sl icon.png
SB772 Sl icon.png
Crew training2 300 Sl icon.png
Experts15 000 Sl icon.png
Aces125 Ge icon.png
Research Aces320 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 40 / 80 / 150 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 112 / 112 / 112 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods ammo.png
mg_turret_belt_pack
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods ammo.png
type_1_turret_belt_pack
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
10 in (mod24)
Mods turret gun.png
mg15_turret_new_gun
Mods turret gun.png
type_1_turret_new_gun

Armaments

Suspended armament

List of setups (3)
Setup 11 x Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B missile
Setup 28 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bomb
Setup 34 x 100 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bomb
Main articles: Army Type 94 GPHE (50 kg), Army Type 94 GPHE (100 kg), Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B

The Ki-48-II otsu can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 1 x Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B missile
  • 8 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (400 kg total)
  • 4 x 100 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (400 kg total)

Defensive armament

Turret7.92 mm Type 1 machine gun
Ammunition1000 rounds
Fire rate2200 shots/min
Turret7.92 mm Type 98 machine gun
Ammunition675 rounds
Fire rate1000 shots/min
Main articles: Type 1 (7.92 mm), Type 98 (7.92 mm)

The Ki-48-II otsu is defended by:

  • 1 x 7.92 mm Type 1 machine gun, dorsal turret (1,000 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.92 mm Type 98 machine gun, ventral turret (675 rpg)

Usage in battles

The Ki-48-II Otsu can be used as a frontline bomber in Air Battles, owing to its high top speed, its exceptional manoeuvrability (for a bomber), and its small profile. It is able to quickly deliver ordnance to frontline units and dispatch them with ease. However, enemy fighters will make short work of you if they are faster, so it is advisable to flee the area as soon as all ordnance is spent. The Ki-48-II Otsu shines in mixed battles, because of its unique armament capabilities.

For Naval and Ground Battles, the Ki-48-II Otsu has the ability to equip the Ki-148 I-Go Model 1B, a manually-guided cruise missile with 130 kg of TNT. Mounted under the fuselage, the missile adds a large amount of weight and drag, meaning that the pilot needs to find a target as quickly as possible to avoid being a target for interception.

Using the Ki-148

One will note that it is rather difficult to control the missile due to its natural tendency to pitch up at its maximum speed. Additionally, the visual control because increasingly difficult as the missile gets farther away from the aircraft. The pilot must keep the line of sight on the missile at all times to ensure it hits the target. This prevents the Ki-48 from taking evasive action whilst guiding the cruise missile. One trick to keeping the line of sight on the missile is to go into the gunner view, hover the crosshair on the target, and direct the missile to the crosshair. Launching the missile is relatively complicated due to the missile being unable to stay in front of the aircraft when dropped at too low of a speed or too high of an angle. Your best bet is to launch the missile less than 2 miles (3.5 km) away from the target at speeds exceeding 225 mph (375 km/h) to avoid being the missile lagging behind. If there is anti-air defense up, prioritize targeting it from farther away, to avoid being hit whilst guiding the missile. It's a good idea to cut throttle to 50% or less, to allow the missile to overtake the plane and to avoid approaching the target too quickly. This is especially useful when attacking groups of SPAAs, as they usually congregate near spawn and are closely packed together. Launch even farther away than normal, so they won't be able to hit you while guiding the missile.

Manual Engine Control

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

Not auto controlled

The Ki-48-II Otsu has relatively powerful engines for its weight and Battle Rating. The Instructor usually does a good job of managing the engines, but if need be, the engines have easy controls to learn. The propeller pitch should be kept at 90-100% while on WEP, using 100% for very high speeds and 90% for takeoff and landing speeds. 95% is a happy medium if the pilot wishes to keep it at one setting. The radiators can be kept at a low setting on most maps, at around roughly 10-30%. The supercharger's second gear is only activated at high altitudes exceeding 11,000 feet (roughly 3,250 meters) The mixture is not as important as any of the other controls, but a good rule is to keep it above 60% at all times, and closer to 100% at sea level.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Ability to carry the Ki-148 guided missile at a low rank
  • Excellent top speed
  • Good handling characteristics
  • Wide turret coverage in the rear
  • Decent survivability, additionally there is armour to protect the gunners and pilot
  • Able to fly back to base on one engine
  • Engines will not overheat quickly, good power
  • Well detailed cockpit

Cons:

  • Weak defensive armament
  • Low bomb capacity
  • Lacks a bombsight
  • No turret coverage in the front of the aircraft
  • Difficult to use the cruise missile
  • Very high spawn cost in ground RB

History

The Ki-48 served in China from late 1940, replacing the Kawasaki Ki-32, and were widely used in the Philippines, Malaya, Burma, New Guinea, the Solomon Islands and the Dutch East Indies, where the Ki-48 Ia and Ib models, slow and poorly armed, were supplemented by the marginally improved Ki-48 IIa and IIc, which were maintained in service along with the older types until the end of the war.

All models continued in service until the Battle of Okinawa during April 1945, when many were converted into kamikaze aircraft (Ki-48-II KAI Tai-Atari) armed with an 800 kg (1,760 lb) bomb. Some aircraft were modified to act as testbeds; one carried the Kawasaki Ki-148 guided missile intended for use on the Kawasaki Ki-102 in late 1944, and one was modified to test a Ne-0 pulsejet engine in late 1944 to early 1945.

The fact that all models continued in service until 1945 reflects that many Ki-48s survived more often than not. This was due to the use of small ship formations (three to ten aircraft) escorted by large numbers of fighters (25–75), typically Nakajima Ki-43s. Although not as fast as more modern fighters, after 1942, the aircraft was still fast enough to enable it to often avoid interception unless it ran into a standing patrol of fighters.[citation needed] The 90th Air Regiment of the 5th Air Army (based in Hopei, north China) equipped with Ki-48s was the only Japanese air unit in China proper to engage the Soviets, although others were advanced in preparation. It flew 20 sorties against the Soviets during 14 August 1945.

As a testbed for the Ki-148

About 180 Ki-148 Missiles were built to defend the Japanese mainland for the anticipated land invasion. Although the Ki-148 was designed to be launched from Ki-102 Strike fighters, the Japanese Army Air Service needed to sufficiently test and deploy missiles before they could be used in combat. The Ki-48-II Otsu was the aircraft selected to launch and test these missiles. In late 1944, A Ki-48-II was modified with a missile control system and the bomb bay was removed, and trials with the Ki-148 commenced. The missile turned out to be successful, more so than its larger counterpart, the Ki-147.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #377 - Pages of History section at 03:27 discusses the Ki-48-II otsu.
Ki-48-II Otsu - Tim's Variety War Thunder

See also

  • Ki-49, a similar frontline bomber

External links


Kawasaki Aircraft Industries (川崎航空機工業株式会社)
Biplane Fighters  Ki-10-I · Ki-10-I C · Ki-10-II · Ki-10-II C
Fighters  Ki-61-I ko · Ki-61-I otsu · Ki-61-I hei · Tada's Ki-61-I hei · Ki-61-I tei · Ki-61-II Otsu Kai
  Ki-100 · Ki-100-II
Interceptors  Ki-45 ko · Ki-45 otsu · Ki-45 hei · Ki-45 tei
  Ki-96
  Ki-102 otsu
  Ki-108 Kai
Bombers  Ki-32
  Ki-48-II otsu
Captured  ␗Ki-45 hei/tei · ␗Ki-61-I otsu · ▃Ki-61-Ib
See also  Kawasaki Shipyard Co.

Japan bombers
Navy 
Carrier-based attack bomber 
B5N  B5N2
B6N  B6N1 · B6N2 · B6N2a
B7A  B7A2 · B7A2 (Homare 23)
Carrier-based dive bomber 
D3A  D3A1
D4Y  D4Y1 · D4Y2 · D4Y3 Ko
Shipboard Observation seaplane 
F1M  F1M2
Land-based Attack bomber 
G4M  G4M1
G5N  G5N1
G8N  G8N1
Flying boat 
H6K  H6K4
H8K  H8K2 · H8K3
Land-based Bomber 
P1Y  P1Y1
Army 
Light  Ki-32
  Ki-48-II otsu
Heavy  Ki-21-Ia · Ki-21-I hei
  Ki-49-I · Ki-49-IIa · Ki-49-IIb · Ki-49-IIb/L
  Ki-67-I Ko · Ki-67-I otsu
Other countries  ▅B-17E

Japan premium aircraft
Fighters  Hagiri's A5M4 · A7He1 · Ki-27 otsu Tachiarai
  Ki-44-II otsu · ▅Bf 109 E-7 · ▅F4U-1A · Ki-100-II · Ki-44-I 34
  ▅Fw 190 A-5 · A7M1 (NK9H) · Tada's Ki-61-I hei · ▅P-51C-11-NT
  J2M4 Kai · A6M5 Ko · A6M6c · J2M5 · Ki-87 · J6K1
Twin-engine fighters  Ki-96
Jet fighters  F-86F-40 JASDF▅ · T-2 Early · F-4EJ ADTW
Strike aircraft  ▄AV-8S
Bombers  Ki-21-I hei · Ki-48-II otsu · H8K3 · B7A2 (Homare 23) · ▅B-17E

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