Difference between revisions of "Me 410 A-1/U4"

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{{Specs-Card|code=me-410a-1_u4}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
−
| about = German twin-engine fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = German strike aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other uses
+
| usage = other versions
 
| link = Me 410 (Family)
 
| link = Me 410 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=me-410a-1_u4
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_Me_410_A-1_U4.jpg|ArtImage Me 410 A-1-U4.png}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_Me410A1U4.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The Me 410 first originated in the Me 210, which was a double-engined heavy fighter and ground attacker. The 410 was developed as a massive improvement over the Me 210 and solved many of its issues. When the Me 410 entered service, it was first utilized as a high-speed bomber. However, Luftwaffe Bomber Command grew displeased with the 410's performance as a bomber and opted to change its role. At this time, Germany was also in great need of a heavy fighter that could attack Allied bomber formations. This led to the Me 410's purpose changing to attack enemy aircraft. Aircraft that were originally intended to bomb were reconverted to the Zerstörer standard. In 1943, orders came down to equip heavy fighters with large calibre cannons to attack enemy aircraft as well as ground-attack. Out of the three cannons proposed, the KwK 5 cm was repurposed for aircraft use. Around 60 Me 410 A-1/U4s were built, but German command also came to the conclusion that the BK 5 cannon was too much. Later variants would drop the 50 mm cannon and simply added more cannons.  
−
{{break}}
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German twin-engine fighter {{Battle-rating}}. This twin-engine fighter has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.29.
 
−
 
 
−
The main point of focus on this vehicle is the 50 mm [[BK 5 (50 mm)]] cannon in the nose. For its size, it holds a very respectable 22 rounds of ammunition. The speciality ammunition belts consist of one "Armored target" belt loaded with APCBC-HE-T rounds, a second "Armored target" belt loaded with HVAP-T (APCR) rounds, and one "Air target" belt with minengeschoße HEI-T rounds. However, the default belt contains a one to one mix of the AP-T and HEI-T rounds, making it difficult to specialize a specific role in the battle.
 
  
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. The main point of focus on this vehicle is the 50 mm [[BK 5 (50 mm)|BK 5]] cannon in the nose. For its size, it holds a very respectable 22 rounds of ammunition. The specialty ammunition belts consist of one "Armored target" belt loaded with APCBC-HE-T rounds, a second "Armored target" belt loaded with HVAP-T (APCR) rounds, and one "Air target" belt with Minengeschoße HEI-T rounds. However, the default belt contains a one-to-one mix of the AP-T and HEI-T rounds, making it difficult to specialize in a specific role in the battle. It's best suited to equip the BK 5 cannon with the armoured target belt (AP-T) and use the [[MG 151 (20 mm)|MG 151]]s against aircraft. 
 
== 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.''
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
−
|-
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
−
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
−
|-
 
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,600 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,600 m)
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB
+
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 562 || 552 || 9,400 || 32.6 || 33.2 || 6.2 || 7.8 || 530
+
! Stock
 +
| 566 || 552 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 32.2 || 33.1 || 7.9 || 7.8 || rowspan="2" | 530
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
+
! Upgraded
−
|-
+
| 613 || 590 || 29.9 || 31.0 || 14.3 || 10.8
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at ?,000 m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude (meters)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
 
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run (meters)
 
−
|-
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
! AB
 
−
! RB
 
−
|-
 
−
| ? || ? || 9,400 || ??.? || ??.? || ?.? || ?.? || ?
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
====Details====
+
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flap
+
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
−
! Take-off flap
 
−
! Landing flap
 
−
! Air brakes
 
−
! Arrestor gear
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
+
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | Limits
+
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
+
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
−
! +
+
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
−
! -
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 750 || 350 || 480 || ~10 || ~4
+
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 457 || 428 || 280 || ~12 || ~4
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
+
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
+
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
−
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 
−
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
| < 360 || < 360 || < 460 || > 265
 
| < 360 || < 360 || < 460 || > 265
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| 5,300 m || 3,020 hp || 3,330 hp
 
| 5,300 m || 3,020 hp || 3,330 hp
 
|-
 
|-
−
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 
−
|- -->
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and 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.'' -->
 +
 
* 8 mm Steel - Nose armour
 
* 8 mm Steel - Nose armour
 
* 60 mm Bulletproof Glass
 
* 60 mm Bulletproof Glass
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* 5 mm Steel - Wing leading edge armour
 
* 5 mm Steel - Wing leading edge armour
 
* 8 mm Steel - Engine nacelle fore and aft plates
 
* 8 mm Steel - Engine nacelle fore and aft plates
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|BK 5 (50 mm)|MG 151/20 (20 mm)}}
+
{{main|BK 5 (50 mm)|MG 151 (20 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 +
 
* 1 x 50 mm BK 5 cannon, chin-mounted (22 rpg)
 
* 1 x 50 mm BK 5 cannon, chin-mounted (22 rpg)
−
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151/20 cannon, cheek-mounted (350 rpg = 700 total)
+
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, cheek-mounted (350 rpg = 700 total)
  
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 +
{{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|MG 131 (13 mm)}}
 
{{main|MG 131 (13 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
−
* 2 x 13 mm MG 131 machine gun, beam turret (500 rpg = 1,000 total)
+
 
 +
* 1 x 13 mm MG 131 machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (500 rpg)
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but 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).'' -->
 
[[File:Cockpit_Me410.jpg|thumbnail|right|The Me 410's instrument panel.]]
 
[[File:Cockpit_Me410.jpg|thumbnail|right|The Me 410's instrument panel.]]
 
The Me 410 A-1/U4 is an air vehicle that performs well in two different roles. The first is bomber interception due to its large calibre 5 cm BK 5 cannon, but the poor climb rate when compared to other variants of the 410 limit its effectiveness in this mission. Granted, single-handedly shooting down heavy bombers is quite enjoyable from a pure gameplay perspective. The excellent armour-piercing capabilities of Me 410 A-1/U4 cannon make ground attack a viable option. However, the [[Hs.129B-3|Hs 129B-3]] with its 7.5 cm BK 7,5 cannon can deliver more punch to its target while an aircraft armed with 3.7 cm weapons can also penetrate the rear and side armour of all types of armoured vehicles while having more ammunition at their disposal. For this reason, bomber interception might be a more viable option. Of course, enemy fighters will be your primary concern, since the Me 410 A-1/U4 has poor climb rate and turn time, but your rear machine guns with good firing radius can provide some retribution.
 
The Me 410 A-1/U4 is an air vehicle that performs well in two different roles. The first is bomber interception due to its large calibre 5 cm BK 5 cannon, but the poor climb rate when compared to other variants of the 410 limit its effectiveness in this mission. Granted, single-handedly shooting down heavy bombers is quite enjoyable from a pure gameplay perspective. The excellent armour-piercing capabilities of Me 410 A-1/U4 cannon make ground attack a viable option. However, the [[Hs.129B-3|Hs 129B-3]] with its 7.5 cm BK 7,5 cannon can deliver more punch to its target while an aircraft armed with 3.7 cm weapons can also penetrate the rear and side armour of all types of armoured vehicles while having more ammunition at their disposal. For this reason, bomber interception might be a more viable option. Of course, enemy fighters will be your primary concern, since the Me 410 A-1/U4 has poor climb rate and turn time, but your rear machine guns with good firing radius can provide some retribution.
Line 167: Line 132:
 
The heavy BK 5 cannon degrades flight performance considerably, making it hard get on your opponent's rear and use your powerful MG 151/20. The best tactic to counter enemy fighters is to retain energy and use Boom & Zoom attacks. If a friendly fighter is near, make sure to ask him for help.
 
The heavy BK 5 cannon degrades flight performance considerably, making it hard get on your opponent's rear and use your powerful MG 151/20. The best tactic to counter enemy fighters is to retain energy and use Boom & Zoom attacks. If a friendly fighter is near, make sure to ask him for help.
  
−
===Manual Engine Control===
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Oil
+
! Oil !! Water !! Type
−
! Water
 
−
! Type
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
===Modules===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 
−
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage Repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| Turret 13 mm
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
| New 13 mm MGs (turret)
 
−
| Offensive 50 mm
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wing Repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
|
 
−
| Engine Injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| New 20 mm Cannons
 
−
| New 50 mm Cannons
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!-- ''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. 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:'''
−
* High firepower.
+
 
−
* Decent defensive armament.
+
* Great manoeuvrability for a two-engine heavy fighter
−
* Good dive performance.
+
* Good dive performance
−
* Able to knock a B-17 out of the sky with as little as one 50 mm shell.
+
* Good survivability
 +
* Potent offensive firepower
 +
* The 50 mm cannon can knock out bombers in one shot
 +
* High ammo count
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
* Worst flight performance of all Me 410 variants.
+
 
−
* High-caliber cannon air target ammunition lacks versatility.
+
* High-calibre cannon air targets belt lacks versatility
−
* 50 mm cannon is almost useless against fighters.
+
* 50 mm cannon is inaccurate and almost useless against fighters
 +
* 50 mm cannon is long to reload, delaying the follow-up shot
 +
* 50 mm shell rarely kills ground units in one shot
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to 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></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== Encyclopedia Info ===</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).'' -->
  
−
=== In-game description ===
+
{{break}}
−
 
+
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}|expand=true}}
−
"The Me.410A-1/U4 and the Me.410A-2/U4 became the most powerful armament available in Me.410A modifications. They provided a 50 mm Rheinmetall BK 5 cannon. This weapon was initially developed as an antitank gun, with a 21-round drum magazine and a pneumatic reloading system, and was mounted in the bomb bay. The presence of the BK 5 cannon had no discernible effect on piloting the aircraft; however, the Me.410's flight characteristics were slightly reduced due to increased aerodynamic resistance. Tests showed that an aircraft with the 50 mm BK 5 cannon was able to target T-34 and KV tanks as well as railway carriages, steam locomotives, and small waterborne vehicles. However, it turned out that the standard Revi 16 sight was not suitable for firing the new weapon, so planes armed with BK 5 cannons were fitted with ZFR 4a gun sights.
+
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
The Me 410 A-1/U4 and the Me 410 A-2/U4 became the most powerful armament available in Me 410 A modifications. They provided a 50 mm Rheinmetall BK 5 cannon. This weapon was initially developed as an antitank gun, with a 21-round drum magazine and a pneumatic reloading system, and was mounted in the bomb bay. The presence of the BK 5 cannon had no discernible effect on piloting the aircraft; however, the Me.410's flight characteristics were slightly reduced due to increased aerodynamic resistance. Tests showed that an aircraft with the 50 mm BK 5 cannon was able to target T-34 and KV tanks as well as railway carriages, steam locomotives, and small waterborne vehicles. However, it turned out that the standard Revi 16 sight was not suitable for firing the new weapon, so planes armed with BK 5 cannons were fitted with ZFR 4a gun sights.
  
 
Firing practice showed that the BK 5 cannon frequently failed when firing long bursts (more than five shells). This problem was solved when a special automatic breaker limiting bursts to three rounds was introduced into the fire control circuit.
 
Firing practice showed that the BK 5 cannon frequently failed when firing long bursts (more than five shells). This problem was solved when a special automatic breaker limiting bursts to three rounds was introduced into the fire control circuit.
  
−
The Me.410A never became an anti-tank aircraft; instead, the Hornets armed with the 50 mm BK 5 cannons targeted American heavy bombers. Firing tests targeting B-17 and B-24 bombers that had been forced to land in German territory showed that a hit with only one 50 mm shell was usually enough to destroy a bomber.
+
The Me 410 A never became an anti-tank aircraft; instead, the Hornets armed with the 50 mm BK 5 cannons targeted American heavy bombers. Firing tests targeting B-17 and B-24 bombers that had been forced to land in German territory showed that a hit with only one 50 mm shell was usually enough to destroy a bomber.
  
−
The principal beam, one of the most durable structural members of the aircraft, was easily destroyed with a hit from one of the shells. The bombers' fuel tanks, which were safely protected with sponge rubber from any through shots from small-calibre weapons, would detonate when hit by BK 5 cannon shells, turning large pieces of the skin and the airframe of the wing inside out. In theory, German pilots could shoot down enemy planes while remaining out of the reach of their defensive fire. But in real combat conditions it was not easy for Me.410 crews to win duels with the escort fighters, not only with the newest P-51 Mustangs but also with the P-47 Thunderbolts and the P-38 Lightnings.
+
The principal beam, one of the most durable structural members of the aircraft, was easily destroyed with a hit from one of the shells. The bombers' fuel tanks, which were safely protected with sponge rubber from any through shots from small-calibre weapons, would detonate when hit by BK 5 cannon shells, turning large pieces of the skin and the airframe of the wing inside out. In theory, German pilots could shoot down enemy planes while remaining out of the reach of their defensive fire. But in real combat conditions it was not easy for Me 410 crews to win duels with the escort fighters, not only with the newest P-51 Mustangs but also with the P-47 Thunderbolts and the P-38 Lightnings.
  
−
50 mm BK 5 cannons were installed on Me.410A-1/U4s on the front, replacing the 20 mm Mauser MG 151/20 cannons and 7.92 mm Rheinmetall-Borsig MG 17 machine guns. The Me.410A-2/U4 ""destroyers"" (""Zerstörer"") were equipped with BK 5 cannons directly at the factory and retained all of their standard armament."
+
50 mm BK 5 cannons were installed on Me 410 A-1/U4s on the front, replacing the 20 mm Mauser MG 151/20 cannons and 7.92 mm Rheinmetall-Borsig MG 17 machine guns. The Me 410 A-2/U4 "destroyers" ("Zerstörer") were equipped with BK 5 cannons directly at the factory and retained all of their standard armament.
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=me-410a-1_u4 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.''
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!--''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
+
* ''other literature.''-->
−
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/227207-messerschmitt-me-410-a-1u4/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
  
−
{{Germany twin-engine fighters}}
+
{{AirManufacturer BFW}}
 +
{{Germany strike aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 23:48, 13 October 2023

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This page is about the German strike aircraft Me 410 A-1/U4. For other versions, see Me 410 (Family).
Me 410 A-1/U4
me-410a-1_u4.png
GarageImage Me 410 A-1 U4.jpg
ArtImage Me 410 A-1-U4.png
Me 410 A-1/U4
Germany flag.png Germany
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
2.7 2.7 4.0
Class:
Research:11 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:22 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Me 410 first originated in the Me 210, which was a double-engined heavy fighter and ground attacker. The 410 was developed as a massive improvement over the Me 210 and solved many of its issues. When the Me 410 entered service, it was first utilized as a high-speed bomber. However, Luftwaffe Bomber Command grew displeased with the 410's performance as a bomber and opted to change its role. At this time, Germany was also in great need of a heavy fighter that could attack Allied bomber formations. This led to the Me 410's purpose changing to attack enemy aircraft. Aircraft that were originally intended to bomb were reconverted to the Zerstörer standard. In 1943, orders came down to equip heavy fighters with large calibre cannons to attack enemy aircraft as well as ground-attack. Out of the three cannons proposed, the KwK 5 cm was repurposed for aircraft use. Around 60 Me 410 A-1/U4s were built, but German command also came to the conclusion that the BK 5 cannon was too much. Later variants would drop the 50 mm cannon and simply added more cannons.

The Me 410 A-1/U4 has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. The main point of focus on this vehicle is the 50 mm BK 5 cannon in the nose. For its size, it holds a very respectable 22 rounds of ammunition. The specialty ammunition belts consist of one "Armored target" belt loaded with APCBC-HE-T rounds, a second "Armored target" belt loaded with HVAP-T (APCR) rounds, and one "Air target" belt with Minengeschoße HEI-T rounds. However, the default belt contains a one-to-one mix of the AP-T and HEI-T rounds, making it difficult to specialize in a specific role in the battle. It's best suited to equip the BK 5 cannon with the armoured target belt (AP-T) and use the MG 151s against aircraft. 

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 6 600 m590 km/h
Turn time31 s
Max altitude9 400 m
Engine2 х Daimler-Benz DB-603A
TypeInline
Cooling systemWater
Take-off weight11 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 6,600 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 566 552 9400 32.2 33.1 7.9 7.8 530
Upgraded 613 590 29.9 31.0 14.3 10.8

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
750 350 457 428 280 ~12 ~4
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 360 < 360 < 460 > 265
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
5,300 m 3,020 hp 3,330 hp

Survivability and armour

Crew2 people
Speed of destruction
Structural750 km/h
Gear350 km/h
  • 8 mm Steel - Nose armour
  • 60 mm Bulletproof Glass
  • 12 mm Steel - Headrest
  • 8 mm Steel - Cockpit mid plate
  • 8 mm Steel - Rear gunner plate
  • 9 mm Steel - Rear boom armour plate
  • 9 mm Steel - Liquid cooling protective armour
  • 5 mm Steel - Wing leading edge armour
  • 8 mm Steel - Engine nacelle fore and aft plates

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB584 → 774 Sl icon.png
RB791 → 1 048 Sl icon.png
SB1 946 → 2 580 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications10 360 Rp icon.png
13 810 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost750 Ge icon.png
Crew training6 300 Sl icon.png
Experts22 000 Sl icon.png
Aces250 Ge icon.png
Research Aces220 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
40 / 80 / 160 % Sl icon.png
124 / 124 / 124 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
910 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
910 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
580 Rp icon.png
Cost:
770 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
870 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 200 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
870 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 200 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
580 Rp icon.png
Cost:
770 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
mg131_turret_belt_pack
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
910 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
mg131_turret_new_gun
Research:
580 Rp icon.png
Cost:
770 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
bk5_belt_pack
Research:
580 Rp icon.png
Cost:
770 Sl icon.png
95 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods ammo.png
mg15120_belt_pack
Research:
870 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 200 Sl icon.png
140 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
mg15120_new_gun
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods weapon.png
bk5_new_gun
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 150 mm BK 5 cannon
Ammunition22 rounds
Fire rate50 shots/min
Weapon 22 x 20 mm MG 151 cannon
Ammunition700 rounds
Fire rate700 shots/min
Main articles: BK 5 (50 mm), MG 151 (20 mm)

The Me 410 A-1/U4 is armed with:

  • 1 x 50 mm BK 5 cannon, chin-mounted (22 rpg)
  • 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, cheek-mounted (350 rpg = 700 total)

Defensive armament

2 х Turret13 mm MG 131 machine gun
Ammunition500 rounds
Fire rate900 shots/min
Main article: MG 131 (13 mm)

The Me 410 A-1/U4 is defended by:

  • 1 x 13 mm MG 131 machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (500 rpg)

Usage in battles

The Me 410's instrument panel.

The Me 410 A-1/U4 is an air vehicle that performs well in two different roles. The first is bomber interception due to its large calibre 5 cm BK 5 cannon, but the poor climb rate when compared to other variants of the 410 limit its effectiveness in this mission. Granted, single-handedly shooting down heavy bombers is quite enjoyable from a pure gameplay perspective. The excellent armour-piercing capabilities of Me 410 A-1/U4 cannon make ground attack a viable option. However, the Hs 129B-3 with its 7.5 cm BK 7,5 cannon can deliver more punch to its target while an aircraft armed with 3.7 cm weapons can also penetrate the rear and side armour of all types of armoured vehicles while having more ammunition at their disposal. For this reason, bomber interception might be a more viable option. Of course, enemy fighters will be your primary concern, since the Me 410 A-1/U4 has poor climb rate and turn time, but your rear machine guns with good firing radius can provide some retribution.

The heavy BK 5 cannon degrades flight performance considerably, making it hard get on your opponent's rear and use your powerful MG 151/20. The best tactic to counter enemy fighters is to retain energy and use Boom & Zoom attacks. If a friendly fighter is near, make sure to ask him for help.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Great manoeuvrability for a two-engine heavy fighter
  • Good dive performance
  • Good survivability
  • Potent offensive firepower
  • The 50 mm cannon can knock out bombers in one shot
  • High ammo count

Cons:

  • High-calibre cannon air targets belt lacks versatility
  • 50 mm cannon is inaccurate and almost useless against fighters
  • 50 mm cannon is long to reload, delaying the follow-up shot
  • 50 mm shell rarely kills ground units in one shot

History


Archive of the in-game description

The Me 410 A-1/U4 and the Me 410 A-2/U4 became the most powerful armament available in Me 410 A modifications. They provided a 50 mm Rheinmetall BK 5 cannon. This weapon was initially developed as an antitank gun, with a 21-round drum magazine and a pneumatic reloading system, and was mounted in the bomb bay. The presence of the BK 5 cannon had no discernible effect on piloting the aircraft; however, the Me.410's flight characteristics were slightly reduced due to increased aerodynamic resistance. Tests showed that an aircraft with the 50 mm BK 5 cannon was able to target T-34 and KV tanks as well as railway carriages, steam locomotives, and small waterborne vehicles. However, it turned out that the standard Revi 16 sight was not suitable for firing the new weapon, so planes armed with BK 5 cannons were fitted with ZFR 4a gun sights.

Firing practice showed that the BK 5 cannon frequently failed when firing long bursts (more than five shells). This problem was solved when a special automatic breaker limiting bursts to three rounds was introduced into the fire control circuit.

The Me 410 A never became an anti-tank aircraft; instead, the Hornets armed with the 50 mm BK 5 cannons targeted American heavy bombers. Firing tests targeting B-17 and B-24 bombers that had been forced to land in German territory showed that a hit with only one 50 mm shell was usually enough to destroy a bomber.

The principal beam, one of the most durable structural members of the aircraft, was easily destroyed with a hit from one of the shells. The bombers' fuel tanks, which were safely protected with sponge rubber from any through shots from small-calibre weapons, would detonate when hit by BK 5 cannon shells, turning large pieces of the skin and the airframe of the wing inside out. In theory, German pilots could shoot down enemy planes while remaining out of the reach of their defensive fire. But in real combat conditions it was not easy for Me 410 crews to win duels with the escort fighters, not only with the newest P-51 Mustangs but also with the P-47 Thunderbolts and the P-38 Lightnings.

50 mm BK 5 cannons were installed on Me 410 A-1/U4s on the front, replacing the 20 mm Mauser MG 151/20 cannons and 7.92 mm Rheinmetall-Borsig MG 17 machine guns. The Me 410 A-2/U4 "destroyers" ("Zerstörer") were equipped with BK 5 cannons directly at the factory and retained all of their standard armament.


Media

Skins

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


Bavarian Aircraft Corporation (BFW*)
Bf 109  Flegel's Bf 109 A · Bf 109 B-1 · Bf 109 C-1 · Bf 109 E-1 · Bf 109 E-3 · Bf 109 E-4 · Bf 109 E-7/U2
  Bf 109 F-1 · Bf 109 F-2 · Bf 109 F-4 · Bf 109 F-4/trop · Bf 109 G-2/trop · Bf 109 G-6 · Bf 109 K-4 · Bf 109 G-10 · Bf 109 G-14 · Bf 109 Z-1
Bf 110  Bf 110 C-6 · Bf 110 C-7 · Bf 110 F-2 · Bf 110 G-2 · Bf 110 G-4
Me 410  Me 410 A-1 · Me 410 A-1/U2 · Me 410 A-1/U4 · Me 410 B-1 · Me 410 B-1/U2 · Me 410 B-2/U4 · Me 410 B-6/R3
Bombers  Me 264
Jet Fighters  Me 163 B · Me 163 B-0 · Me 262 A-1a · Me 262 A-1a/Jabo · Me 262 A-1a/U1 · Me 262 A-1/U4 · Me 262 A-2a · Me 262 C-1a · Me 262 C-2b
Export  ▅Bf 109 E-7 · ▄Bf 109 G-14/AS · ◐Bf 109 F-4 · ◐Bf 109 G-2 · Bf 109 G-2 · ▄Bf 109 G-2 · ▄Bf 109 G-6 · ▄Bf 109 G-6 Erla · ◐Bf 110 G-4
Captured  ▃Bf 109 F-4
  * BFW was later renamed Messerschmitt Aktiengesellschaft (AG) on 11 July 1938. All aircraft currently in production at this time retained the designation Bf while those developed after this date had the designation Me.

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

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