Difference between revisions of "Vampire F.B.5"

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{{Specs-Card|code=vampire_fb5}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = British jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = British jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other version
+
| usage = other versions
−
| link = Vampire FB 52A
+
| link = Vampire (Family)
 
}}
 
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=vampire_fb5
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 +
}}
 +
 
== 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_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The de Havilland Vampire began in 1941 as a very experimental aircraft, designed around de Havilland's newly developed turbojet engine, the Halford H.1 (later renamed the de Havilland Goblin). It emerged just as turbojets were becoming powerful enough to power single-engined aircraft, aided by the Vampire's unusual twin-boom design, which allowed a shorter tail pipe to be fitted and thus reduced power loss from the engine. The prototype first flew in September 1943, only 6 months after the [[Meteor F Mk 3|Gloster Meteor]], and production began in May 1944, although the first units would not enter service until 1946. The '''Vampire FB.5''' was introduced in 1948, featuring armour around the engine, clipped wings, and hardpoints for bombs and rockets, allowing it to undertake the fighter-bomber role. It was the most produced variant of the Vampire, with over 1,000 units built.
−
{{break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} British jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.33]].
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.33]], the Vampire is a highly manoeuvrable but relatively slow jet, making it rather similar in style to the numerous Spitfires found earlier in the tree. While it is unlikely to outaccelerate or outrun any of its opponents, even in a dive, the excellent manoeuvrability can allow the Vampire to dodge and entrap opponents into a turnfight which it will inevitably win. Once in position, the nimble but stable platform and four powerful Hispano cannons make taking shots relatively simple. However, as with all jets, particular attention must be paid to ensure that the Vampire is not left low on energy and vulnerable to encroaching enemies once a turnfight is committed to.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
−
<!--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}}
−
When using the Vampire, the first thing a pilot should know is that it is inferior in most aspects to its opposition, thus requiring constant vigilance and consciousness of weakness. The Vampire cannot reach the speeds a [[MiG-9]] or an [[F2H-2]] can, it cannot accelerate as well as many of its counterparts and it is appalling in a dive against most of its opponents. So, essentially, the "Vamp" cannot climb well, it can't catch many jets in a straight line and it can't out-accelerate much of its opposition. However, the Vampire has one impressive advantage against its jet-powered opponents: it can turn incredibly well. In fact, a good analogy to flying the Vampire is fighting jets in propeller aircraft.
+
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
When using the Vampire, the first thing a pilot should know is that it is inferior in most aspects to its opposition, thus requiring constant vigilance and consciousness of weakness. The Vampire cannot reach the speeds a [[MiG-9 (l)]] or an [[F2H-2]] can, it cannot accelerate as well as many of its counterparts and it is appalling in a dive against most of its opponents. So, essentially, the "Vamp" cannot climb well, it can't catch many jets in a straight line and it can't out-accelerate much of its opposition. However, the Vampire has one impressive advantage against its jet-powered opponents: it can turn incredibly well. In fact, a good analogy to flying the Vampire is fighting jets in propeller aircraft.
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
−
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 0 m - sea level)
+
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,572 m)
 
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
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|}
 
|}
  
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====Details====
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==== Details ====
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="6" | Features
 
! colspan="6" | Features
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|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
! colspan="7" | Limits
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || 520 || 520 || 300 || ~10 || ~5
+
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} ||496||464|| 300 || ~10 || ~5
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Engine
+
! colspan="3" | Engine
 
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
 
! colspan="5" | Aircraft mass
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="3" | Engine name || Number
+
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
 
! colspan="2" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
! colspan="2" | Empty mass || colspan="3" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="3" | de Haviland Goblin II || 1
+
| colspan="2" | de Havilland Goblin II || 1
 
| colspan="2" | 3,385 kg || colspan="3" | 190 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
| colspan="2" | 3,385 kg || colspan="3" | 190 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Engine characteristics
+
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
−
! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load)
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! colspan="4" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br />Weight
−
! rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br/>Weight
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Weight (each) || colspan="3" | Type
+
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel
 
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 705 kg || colspan="3" | Centrifugal-flow turbojet
+
| 705 kg || colspan="2" | Centrifugal-flow turbojet
 
| 3,734 kg || 4,014 kg || 4,325 kg || 4,605 kg || 5,606 kg
 
| 3,734 kg || 4,014 kg || 4,325 kg || 4,605 kg || 5,606 kg
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
+
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
 
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
 
! colspan="5" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="2" | Condition || 100% || WEP
+
! Condition || 100% || WEP
−
! 10m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 35m fuel || MTOW
+
! 11m fuel || 20m fuel || 30m fuel || 39m fuel || MTOW
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="2" | ''Stationary'' || 1,290 kgf || N/A
+
| ''Stationary'' || 1,290 kgf || N/A
 
| 0.35 || 0.32 || 0.30 || 0.28 || 0.23
 
| 0.35 || 0.32 || 0.30 || 0.28 || 0.23
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="2" | ''Optimal'' || 1,290 kgf<br/>(0 km/h) || N/A
+
| ''Optimal'' || 1,290 kgf<br />(0 km/h) || N/A
 
| 0.35 || 0.32 || 0.30 || 0.28 || 0.23
 
| 0.35 || 0.32 || 0.30 || 0.28 || 0.23
 
|-
 
|-
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=== 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.'' -->
  
−
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Armored windscreen
+
* 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Armoured windscreen
−
* 12.7 mm Steel  - Armor plate behind the pilot's head
+
* 12.7 mm Steel  - Armour plate behind the pilot's head
−
* 3 mm Steel - Armor plate under the engine
+
* 3 mm Steel - Armour plate under the engine
 +
 
 +
The Vampire provides adequate protection to the pilot, as well as some armour under the engine. As with most jets, damage to the wings or fuselage greatly hampers flight performance, decreasing top speed and manoeuvrability. There are quite a few fuel tanks located in this plane's wings, so fuel fires may be common, especially when taking a high fuel loadout.
 +
 
 +
=== 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|Hispano Mk.V (20 mm)}}
 
{{main|Hispano Mk.V (20 mm)}}
Line 123: Line 135:
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|G.P. 1,000 lb Mk.I (1,000 lb)|RP-3}}
+
{{main|G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb)|M.C. Mk.I (500 lb)|H.E. M.C. Mk.13 (1,000 lb)|RP-3}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
−
* 2 x 1,000 lb G.P. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs (2,000 lb total)
+
* 2 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (1,000 lb total)
−
* 8 x 76 mm RP-3 rockets
+
* 2 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (1,000 lb total)
 +
* 2 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs + 8 x RP-3 rockets (1,000 lb total)
 +
* 2 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 8 x RP-3 rockets (1,000 lb total)
 +
* 2 x 1,000 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.13 bombs (2,000 lb total)
 +
* 8 x RP-3 rockets
  
 
== 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).'' -->
−
 
+
The Vampire is well-known for its ability to turn on a dime, but its incredible manoeuvrability also means that it has poor manoeuvring energy retention. Climbing is important for this plane, as is careful airspeed maintenance. When in a battle situation, it is advisable to always stay above 400 km/h; any slower, and the Vampire will greatly struggle to evade enemy fire.
−
In order to be able to use the de Havilland Vampire's turning power, one should worry about one's energy state. To do such, climbing is important, as is maintaining airspeed. One should never risk being below 400 km/h since having little speed makes it incredibly hard to evade any attacks by faster aircraft. As such, climbing at speeds above 400 km/h IAS is a healthy option - altitude provides manoeuvring space and more options for manoeuvres, whilst keeping a certain speed means that the pilot is ready at all times to manoeuvre against an enemy. Once an enemy is spotted, gaining speed is the best choice, since the lack of it means the Vampire will become every pilot's nightmare - low, slow and un-manoeuvrable.
 
−
 
 
−
Its extreme manoeuvrability for a jet means, however, that lining up for a shot is an easy task when an enemy is flying near and  when an inexperienced or frustrated enemy jet falls into the trap of turning tightly against the Vampire, it will likely end up destroyed. Aiming the guns might be a challenge at first for inexperienced Vampire pilots since their placement below the centre of gravity makes the Vampire's nose shift downward while firing. Pilots should be aware that turning too much can leave them vulnerable to other enemy aircraft due to the significant loss of speed, so they should never commit to a dogfight if more enemies are lurking nearby.
 
  
 +
If the Vampire is able to keep its energy, it becomes one of the best dogfighters at this rank. It can outturn nearly every other jet of its tier, and has a powerful engine to boot. Thanks to its great manoeuvrability, it is often quite easy to line up a shot against the enemy. One common tactic is to try luring the enemy into a turnfight. The Vampire will almost always come out on top. However, never commit to a dogfight if there are multiple enemies nearby. Turning will cause the Vampire's airspeed to fall dramatically, at which point enemies can easily swoop in and destroy it.
  
−
===Manual Engine Control===
+
It is valuable to note that the Vampire has a low top speed for a jet, at only ~880 km/h. It also tends to compress as higher speeds. The Vampire may have difficulty in chasing down a faster enemy. Also note that firing the main cannon armament causes a downward recoil.
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
 
−
! colspan="3" | Radiator
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
−
|-
 
−
! Oil
 
−
! Water
 
−
! Type
 
−
|-
 
−
| Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Combined || rowspan="2" | Not controllable<br>1 gear || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
−
===Modules===
+
For attacking ground targets, the Vampire can be equipped with either bombs or rockets.
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 
−
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
|
 
−
| GLBC mk.3
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| New 20 mm cannons
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| G-suit
 
−
|
 
−
| Cover
 
−
|
 
−
| GRC mk.8
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== 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:'''
  
−
* Good armament, 4 x chin-mounted 20 mm Hispano Mk.V's
+
* Powerful armament
−
* Great control responsiveness up to medium-high speeds, combat flaps to increase this
 
 
* Great manoeuvrability
 
* Great manoeuvrability
−
* Capable air-brakes that increase lift when activated
 
 
* Decent payload options
 
* Decent payload options
−
* Lack of single vertical tail section makes spotting planes from the cockpit much easier
+
* Good cockpit visibility
−
* Good glider, can get back to base from a reasonable distance away if the engine is knocked out (depending on speed and altitude)
+
* Good at gliding without engine power
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Low top speed and acceleration (acceleration can be improved with research)
+
* Low top speed and acceleration
−
* Weapons are placed below the centre of mass, forcing the pilot to aim higher
+
* Weapons create significant recoil
−
* Vulnerable tail section, especially easy to hit when taking off it not careful
 
 
* Poor dive rate
 
* Poor dive rate
−
* Reflective silver camouflage comes to default, making spotting you much easier from above
 
  
 
== 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></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>=== 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}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 
The de Havilland DH.100 Vampire was a single engine jet fighter which entered service with the RAF in 1946. Designed to Air Ministry specification F.6/41, the demand was for a fighter with a maximum speed in excess of 500 mph and a combat radius of at least 300 miles. The twin tail boom layout design allowed a short tailpipe from the powerplant, a de Havilland Goblin centrifugal turbojet. This limited the loss of thrust and reduced overall weight. Also of note in the design was the use of plywood and balsa wood in the construction of the cockpit section; de Havilland already had experience of using wood in the construction of high performance aircraft.
 
The de Havilland DH.100 Vampire was a single engine jet fighter which entered service with the RAF in 1946. Designed to Air Ministry specification F.6/41, the demand was for a fighter with a maximum speed in excess of 500 mph and a combat radius of at least 300 miles. The twin tail boom layout design allowed a short tailpipe from the powerplant, a de Havilland Goblin centrifugal turbojet. This limited the loss of thrust and reduced overall weight. Also of note in the design was the use of plywood and balsa wood in the construction of the cockpit section; de Havilland already had experience of using wood in the construction of high performance aircraft.
  
 
Preliminary flight testing in September 1943 proved to be a success, with modifications made to the rudder to reduce drag and increase stability. The third prototype aircraft was also fitted with the planned standard armament of four 20mm Hispano cannon. In May 1944 an order for 120 aircraft was placed, and the first production Vampire F.Mk.I made its maiden flight in April 1945; the Vampire briefly held the record as the fastest British jet fighter with a top speed of 540 mph. No.247 Squadron was the first unit to be equipped with the Vampire in March 1946, shortly followed by No.54 and No.72 Squadrons to form the first Vampire Wing at RAF Chilbolton. In 1948 Vampires were employed by the 2nd Tactical Air Force based in Germany. A specially modified Vampire again hit the record books when it achieved a world altitude record of 59,446 feet.
 
Preliminary flight testing in September 1943 proved to be a success, with modifications made to the rudder to reduce drag and increase stability. The third prototype aircraft was also fitted with the planned standard armament of four 20mm Hispano cannon. In May 1944 an order for 120 aircraft was placed, and the first production Vampire F.Mk.I made its maiden flight in April 1945; the Vampire briefly held the record as the fastest British jet fighter with a top speed of 540 mph. No.247 Squadron was the first unit to be equipped with the Vampire in March 1946, shortly followed by No.54 and No.72 Squadrons to form the first Vampire Wing at RAF Chilbolton. In 1948 Vampires were employed by the 2nd Tactical Air Force based in Germany. A specially modified Vampire again hit the record books when it achieved a world altitude record of 59,446 feet.
  
−
1948 also saw the first testing of the FB.Mk.5. This was initially a modified Vampire F.3 with a strengthened and clipped wing, increased armor and greater ground clearance for the carrying of external ordnance. This fighter-bomber variant of the Vampire was capable of carrying up to 2000 lbs of bombs or 60 lb rockets, and went on to equip 40 squadrons within the RAF as well as being the first RAF jets to operate in the Far East. The Vampire FB.Mk.5 was used operationally in ground attack missions against insurgents in Malaya until it was replaced by the Venom in 1953. The FB.Mk.5 was also used as the basis for the Royal Navy’s Sea Vampire F.Mk.20 which, fitted with an arrestor hook, long travel landing gear and larger wing flaps, entered service with the Fleet Air Arm in June 1949. A popular export fighter, just under 3300 Vampires were built - many under license overseas.
+
1948 also saw the first testing of the FB.Mk.5. This was initially a modified Vampire F.3 with a strengthened and clipped wing, increased armour and greater ground clearance for the carrying of external ordnance. This fighter-bomber variant of the Vampire was capable of carrying up to 2000 lbs of bombs or 60 lb rockets, and went on to equip 40 squadrons within the RAF as well as being the first RAF jets to operate in the Far East. The Vampire FB.Mk.5 was used operationally in ground attack missions against insurgents in Malaya until it was replaced by the Venom in 1953. The FB.Mk.5 was also used as the basis for the Royal Navy's Sea Vampire F.Mk.20 which, fitted with an arrestor hook, long travel landing gear and larger wing flaps, entered service with the Fleet Air Arm in June 1949. A popular export fighter, just under 3300 Vampires were built - many under license overseas.
 +
{{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=vampire_fb5 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|rpvKhy22Erc|'''The Shooting Range #85''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 08:59 discusses the Vampire FB 5.|ghlDnZShfzE|'''Dogfights: Me 262 vs Vampire FB 5''' - ''Azi''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 237: Line 206:
  
 
== 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;''
 +
* ''other literature.''-->
  
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
+
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/262866-de-havilland-vampire-fb5/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
 
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 
{{AirManufacturer deHavilland}}
 
{{AirManufacturer deHavilland}}
 
{{Britain jet aircraft}}
 
{{Britain jet aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 14:09, 24 November 2024

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This page is about the British jet fighter Vampire F.B.5. For other versions, see Vampire (Family).
Vampire F.B.5
vampire_fb5.png
GarageImage Vampire F.B.5.jpg
Vampire F.B.5
Britain flag.png Britain
V Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
7.7 8.0 7.7
Class:
Research:95 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:270 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The de Havilland Vampire began in 1941 as a very experimental aircraft, designed around de Havilland's newly developed turbojet engine, the Halford H.1 (later renamed the de Havilland Goblin). It emerged just as turbojets were becoming powerful enough to power single-engined aircraft, aided by the Vampire's unusual twin-boom design, which allowed a shorter tail pipe to be fitted and thus reduced power loss from the engine. The prototype first flew in September 1943, only 6 months after the Gloster Meteor, and production began in May 1944, although the first units would not enter service until 1946. The Vampire FB.5 was introduced in 1948, featuring armour around the engine, clipped wings, and hardpoints for bombs and rockets, allowing it to undertake the fighter-bomber role. It was the most produced variant of the Vampire, with over 1,000 units built.

Introduced in Update 1.33, the Vampire is a highly manoeuvrable but relatively slow jet, making it rather similar in style to the numerous Spitfires found earlier in the tree. While it is unlikely to outaccelerate or outrun any of its opponents, even in a dive, the excellent manoeuvrability can allow the Vampire to dodge and entrap opponents into a turnfight which it will inevitably win. Once in position, the nimble but stable platform and four powerful Hispano cannons make taking shots relatively simple. However, as with all jets, particular attention must be paid to ensure that the Vampire is not left low on energy and vulnerable to encroaching enemies once a turnfight is committed to.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 4 572 m855 km/h
Turn time24 s
Max altitude10 668 m
Enginede Havilland Goblin II
TypeJet
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight6 t

When using the Vampire, the first thing a pilot should know is that it is inferior in most aspects to its opposition, thus requiring constant vigilance and consciousness of weakness. The Vampire cannot reach the speeds a MiG-9 (l) or an F2H-2 can, it cannot accelerate as well as many of its counterparts and it is appalling in a dive against most of its opponents. So, essentially, the "Vamp" cannot climb well, it can't catch many jets in a straight line and it can't out-accelerate much of its opposition. However, the Vampire has one impressive advantage against its jet-powered opponents: it can turn incredibly well. In fact, a good analogy to flying the Vampire is fighting jets in propeller aircraft.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 4,572 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 817 792 10668 25.0 25.7 16.1 15.1 650
Upgraded 895 855 23.5 24.0 24.4 20.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
888 330 496 464 300 ~10 ~5
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 550 < 600 < 600 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Empty mass Wing loading (full fuel)
de Havilland Goblin II 1 3,385 kg 190 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 11m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 39m fuel
705 kg Centrifugal-flow turbojet 3,734 kg 4,014 kg 4,325 kg 4,605 kg 5,606 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
Condition 100% WEP 11m fuel 20m fuel 30m fuel 39m fuel MTOW
Stationary 1,290 kgf N/A 0.35 0.32 0.30 0.28 0.23
Optimal 1,290 kgf
(0 km/h) 		N/A 0.35 0.32 0.30 0.28 0.23

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural888 km/h
Gear330 km/h
  • 38 mm Bulletproof glass - Armoured windscreen
  • 12.7 mm Steel - Armour plate behind the pilot's head
  • 3 mm Steel - Armour plate under the engine

The Vampire provides adequate protection to the pilot, as well as some armour under the engine. As with most jets, damage to the wings or fuselage greatly hampers flight performance, decreasing top speed and manoeuvrability. There are quite a few fuel tanks located in this plane's wings, so fuel fires may be common, especially when taking a high fuel loadout.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 236 → 4 608 Sl icon.png
RB8 907 → 12 683 Sl icon.png
SB11 966 → 17 039 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications80 000 Rp icon.png
129 300 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 000 Ge icon.png
Crew training78 000 Sl icon.png
Experts270 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 500 Ge icon.png
Research Aces670 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
120 / 350 / 600 % Sl icon.png
190 / 190 / 190 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
6 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 700 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
6 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 700 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 100 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 100 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 100 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
8 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Research:
8 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
hispano_belt_pack
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
500 LB
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
270 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
GLBC mk.3
Research:
6 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 700 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
hispano_mk5_new_gun
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 100 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
GRC mk.8
Research:
8 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
14 000 Sl icon.png
440 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 14 x 20 mm Hispano Mk.V cannon
Ammunition600 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
Main article: Hispano Mk.V (20 mm)

The Vampire F.B.5 is armed with:

  • 4 x 20 mm Hispano Mk.V cannons, chin-mounted (150 rpg = 600 total)

Suspended armament

List of setups (6)
Setup 12 x G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV bomb
Setup 22 x G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV bomb
4 x RP-3 rockets
4 x RP-3 rockets
Setup 32 x 1000 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.13 bomb
Setup 44 x RP-3 rockets
4 x RP-3 rockets
Setup 52 x M.C. 500 lb Mk.I bomb
Setup 62 x M.C. 500 lb Mk.I bomb
4 x RP-3 rockets
4 x RP-3 rockets
Main articles: G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb), M.C. Mk.I (500 lb), H.E. M.C. Mk.13 (1,000 lb), RP-3

The Vampire F.B.5 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 2 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (1,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (1,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs + 8 x RP-3 rockets (1,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 500 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs + 8 x RP-3 rockets (1,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 1,000 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.13 bombs (2,000 lb total)
  • 8 x RP-3 rockets

Usage in battles

The Vampire is well-known for its ability to turn on a dime, but its incredible manoeuvrability also means that it has poor manoeuvring energy retention. Climbing is important for this plane, as is careful airspeed maintenance. When in a battle situation, it is advisable to always stay above 400 km/h; any slower, and the Vampire will greatly struggle to evade enemy fire.

If the Vampire is able to keep its energy, it becomes one of the best dogfighters at this rank. It can outturn nearly every other jet of its tier, and has a powerful engine to boot. Thanks to its great manoeuvrability, it is often quite easy to line up a shot against the enemy. One common tactic is to try luring the enemy into a turnfight. The Vampire will almost always come out on top. However, never commit to a dogfight if there are multiple enemies nearby. Turning will cause the Vampire's airspeed to fall dramatically, at which point enemies can easily swoop in and destroy it.

It is valuable to note that the Vampire has a low top speed for a jet, at only ~880 km/h. It also tends to compress as higher speeds. The Vampire may have difficulty in chasing down a faster enemy. Also note that firing the main cannon armament causes a downward recoil.

For attacking ground targets, the Vampire can be equipped with either bombs or rockets.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Powerful armament
  • Great manoeuvrability
  • Decent payload options
  • Good cockpit visibility
  • Good at gliding without engine power

Cons:

  • Low top speed and acceleration
  • Weapons create significant recoil
  • Poor dive rate

History


Archive of the in-game description

The de Havilland DH.100 Vampire was a single engine jet fighter which entered service with the RAF in 1946. Designed to Air Ministry specification F.6/41, the demand was for a fighter with a maximum speed in excess of 500 mph and a combat radius of at least 300 miles. The twin tail boom layout design allowed a short tailpipe from the powerplant, a de Havilland Goblin centrifugal turbojet. This limited the loss of thrust and reduced overall weight. Also of note in the design was the use of plywood and balsa wood in the construction of the cockpit section; de Havilland already had experience of using wood in the construction of high performance aircraft.

Preliminary flight testing in September 1943 proved to be a success, with modifications made to the rudder to reduce drag and increase stability. The third prototype aircraft was also fitted with the planned standard armament of four 20mm Hispano cannon. In May 1944 an order for 120 aircraft was placed, and the first production Vampire F.Mk.I made its maiden flight in April 1945; the Vampire briefly held the record as the fastest British jet fighter with a top speed of 540 mph. No.247 Squadron was the first unit to be equipped with the Vampire in March 1946, shortly followed by No.54 and No.72 Squadrons to form the first Vampire Wing at RAF Chilbolton. In 1948 Vampires were employed by the 2nd Tactical Air Force based in Germany. A specially modified Vampire again hit the record books when it achieved a world altitude record of 59,446 feet.

1948 also saw the first testing of the FB.Mk.5. This was initially a modified Vampire F.3 with a strengthened and clipped wing, increased armour and greater ground clearance for the carrying of external ordnance. This fighter-bomber variant of the Vampire was capable of carrying up to 2000 lbs of bombs or 60 lb rockets, and went on to equip 40 squadrons within the RAF as well as being the first RAF jets to operate in the Far East. The Vampire FB.Mk.5 was used operationally in ground attack missions against insurgents in Malaya until it was replaced by the Venom in 1953. The FB.Mk.5 was also used as the basis for the Royal Navy's Sea Vampire F.Mk.20 which, fitted with an arrestor hook, long travel landing gear and larger wing flaps, entered service with the Fleet Air Arm in June 1949. A popular export fighter, just under 3300 Vampires were built - many under license overseas.


Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #85 - Pages of History section at 08:59 discusses the Vampire FB 5.
Dogfights: Me 262 vs Vampire FB 5 - Azi

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


De Havilland Aircraft Company Limited
Fighters  Hornet Mk.I · Hornet Mk.III · Mosquito FB Mk VI · Mosquito FB Mk XVIII
Jet fighters  Vampire F.B.5 · Venom FB.4 · Sea Venom FAW 20 · Sea Vixen F.A.W. Mk.2
Export  ␗Mosquito FB.Mk.26 · ▄Vampire FB 52A(Italy) · ▄Vampire FB 52A(Finland) · A28B

Britain jet aircraft
Blackburn  Buccaneer S.1 · Buccaneer S.2 · Buccaneer S.2B
British Aerospace  Harrier GR.7 · Sea Harrier FRS.1 (e) · Sea Harrier FRS.1 · Sea Harrier FA 2
British Aircraft Corporation  Strikemaster Mk.88
English Electric  Canberra B Mk 2 · Canberra B (I) Mk 6 · Lightning F.6 · Lightning F.53
Gloster  Meteor F Mk 3 · Sea Meteor F Mk 3 · Meteor F Mk 4 G.41F · Meteor F Mk 4 G.41G · Meteor F Mk 8 G.41K · Meteor F Mk.8 Reaper
  Javelin F.(A.W.) Mk.9
de Havilland  Vampire F.B.5 · Venom FB.4 · Sea Venom FAW 20 · Sea Vixen F.A.W. Mk.2
Hawker  Sea Hawk FGA.6 · Hunter F.1 · Hunter F.6 · Hunter FGA.9 · Harrier GR.1 · Harrier GR.3
Panavia  Tornado GR.1 · Tornado GR.4 · Tornado F.3 · Tornado F.3 Late
SEPECAT  Jaguar GR.1 · Jaguar GR.1A · Jaguar IS
Supermarine  Attacker FB 1 · Attacker FB.2 · Scimitar F Mk.1 · Swift F.1 · Swift F.7
Foreign  Phantom FG.1 (USA) · Phantom FGR.2 (USA) · F-4J(UK) Phantom II (USA)
Australia  F-111C
India  ▄MiG-21 Bison
South Africa  ▄JAS39C

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