Difference between revisions of "AU-1"

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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=f4u-6_au-1
 
|code=f4u-6_au-1
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
|market=AU-1 Corsair (USA)
 
|market=AU-1 Corsair (USA)
−
}}
 
−
{{About
 
−
| about = American attacker '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
−
| usage = other versions
 
−
| link = F4U (Family)
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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]]
+
 
−
{{Break}} -->
+
The '''AU-1''' was a variant of the F4U Corsair developed from the F4U-5, and was originally designated as the F4U-6 but was renamed to AU-1. It was designed as a dedicated ground attack aircraft, unlike all the previous Corsairs which were designed as fighters. To fit that role the engine was optimized for low-altitude flight, additional armour was fitted, and the AU-1 had increased suspended armament capacity. The United States Marine Corps utilized the AU-1 in Korea starting in 1952, saw service in the Naval reserves from 1954 to early 1956 before it was officially retired in 1957.
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American attacker {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/6669-special-space-race-en|"Space Race" event]].
+
 
 +
Introduced during [[Update 1.97 "Viking Fury"]] as a reward for the [[wt:en/news/6669-special-space-race-en|2020 "Space Race" event]], the AU-1 is like a souped-up version of the Corsair for ground attack enthusiasts. It can carry a much larger payload than the typical Corsair due to additional pylons that can be installed under the airframe and wings. The AU-1 can still be used as a fighter in opportunistic moments against the enemy if they are distracted, but the overall weight penalty from the modifications make the AU-1 poor for dogfights.
  
 
== 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}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
Compared to similarly tiered fighters, the AU-1 has mediocre flight performance, though the powerful engine and Corsair airframe allow it to perform decently as a support fighter at low alt when played to its strengths and not carrying ordnance. Although speed at low altitude is great, manoeuvrability is average at best, sustained climb quickly drops off with altitude (though it can zoom climb decently well below 2,000 m), and high-altitude performance is significantly lacking. Compared to other attackers, the AU-1 has above average speed and roll rate. It cannot turn as tightly as Soviet attackers or the Skyraiders, but it is more effective at boom and zoom tactics than its contemporary attackers. Compared to other single-engine attack planes, it can carry a larger bomb load, but flight performance is hindered more by payloads. When facing other planes, the AU-1's greatest strength is its incredible speed at very low altitudes: at sea level, no axis or Soviet prop can catch an unladen AU-1 travelling at maximum speed in a straight line.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| ___ || ___ || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || __._ || __._ || __._ || __._ || rowspan="2" | 500
+
| 610 || 584 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 23.1 || 23.8 || 14.2 || 14.2 || rowspan="2" | 500
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
Line 59: Line 58:
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 470 || 278 || 245 || ~10 || ~3
+
| 885 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 388 || 299 || 252 || ~11 || ~4
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 450 || < 220 || < 390 || > 450
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and 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.''
+
{{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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* 4.7 mm steel underneath nose and engine
 +
* 4.7 mm steel underneath fuel tank
 +
* 4.7 mm steel underneath pilot's feet
 +
* 4.7 mm steel on the right of the central under fuselage
 +
* 4.7 mm steel behind pilot's head
 +
* 12.7 mm steel under nose
 +
* 12.7 mm steel under pilot
 +
* 12.7 mm steel behind pilot
 +
* 38 mm bulletproof glass in front of pilot
 +
* Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 in front of pilot)
 +
 
 +
=== 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|M3 (20 mm)}}
 
{{main|M3 (20 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 +
 
* 4 x 20 mm M3 cannons, wing-mounted (246 rpg = 984 total)
 
* 4 x 20 mm M3 cannons, wing-mounted (246 rpg = 984 total)
  
 
=== 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|AN-M57 (250 lb)|AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)|AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)}}
 
−
{{main|HVAR|Tiny Tim}}
 
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! !! width="3%" | 1 !! width="3%" | 2 !! width="3%" | 3 !! width="3%" | 4 !! width="3%" | 5 !! width="3%" | 6 !! width="3%" | 7 !! width="3%" | 8 !! width="3%" | 9 !! width="3%" | 10 !! width="3%" | 11 !! width="3%" | 12 !! width="3%" | 13
 +
| rowspan="8" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_{{PAGENAME}}.png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M57 (250 lb)|250 lb AN-M57]] bombs
 +
| 1 || 1* || 1 || 1* || 1 || || || || 1 || 1* || 1 || 1* || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|500 lb AN-M64A1]] bombs
 +
| 1* || || 1* || || 1* || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1* || || 1* || || 1*
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb AN-M65A1]] bombs
 +
| || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb)|1,600 lb AN-Mk 1]] bombs
 +
| || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)|2,000 lb AN-M66A2]] bombs
 +
| || || || || || || 1 || || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[HVAR]] rockets
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[Tiny Tim]] rockets
 +
| || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="15" | * 500 lb bombs cannot be equipped in conjunction with adjacent 250 lb bombs on hardpoints 2/4/10/12
 +
|}
 +
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
 +
* 10 x HVAR rockets
 +
* 3 x Tiny Tim rockets
 
* 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (2,500 lb total)
 
* 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (2,500 lb total)
−
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 
−
* 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
 
 
* 9 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,500 lb total)
 
* 9 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,500 lb total)
 
* 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
 
* 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
−
* 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (5,500 lb total)
 
−
* 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
 
 
* 3 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (4,800 lb total)
 
* 3 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (4,800 lb total)
−
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs + 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (8,200 lb total)
 
 
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb (2,000 lb total)
 
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb (2,000 lb total)
−
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (7,000 lb total)
+
{{Navigation-End}}
−
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs + 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (7,700 lb total)
 
−
* 10 x HVAR rockets
 
−
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 10 x HVAR rockets (4,000 lb total)
 
−
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs + 10 x HVAR rockets (5,200 lb total)
 
−
* 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 10 x HVAR rockets (3,000 lb total)
 
−
* 3 x Tiny Tim rockets
 
−
* 3 x Tiny Tim rockets + 10 x HVAR rockets
 
−
* 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 3 x Tiny Tim rockets (3,000 lb total)
 
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view, but instead, give the reader food for thought. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 +
 
 +
'''Armament''':
 +
 
 +
The AU-1's defining characteristic is its ability to carry incredible amounts of suspended armament - as much as a [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]] heavy bomber. In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 can destroy two bases (bombing points), and in Ground Realistic battles, the plane has the potential to be absolutely devastating against enemy ground forces. From carpet bombing, rocket barrages or precision drops, this plane can do it all.
 +
 
 +
Additionally, the four cannons provide very effective frontal armament (they're some of the best 20 mm cannons in the game) and the high ammunition count is a nice bonus, too. They wreak havoc on enemy aircraft, deal considerable damage to lightly armoured tanks and wheeled vehicles, and in Air Realistic battles can destroy light pillboxes and light tanks.
 +
 
 +
'''Flight Performance''':
 +
 
 +
As a plane designed to provide close air support, maximum engine performance was not needed at higher altitudes. This leads to significant losses in speed and climb rate as altitude increases. The AU-1 still climbs well and is incredibly fast at the very low altitudes it was optimized for. It is less manoeuvrable than other Corsairs or single-engine attackers and is extremely sluggish when carrying payloads. If engaging enemy fighters, it is imperative to maintain speed as you can not rely on manoeuvrability or acceleration to stay alive.
 +
 
 +
In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 receives an attacker air-spawn. However its engine is quite weak at high altitudes, so players will be unable to take full advantage of the air-spawn to attack enemy fighters as they climb. If flown as a support fighter, the AU-1 is most effective when flown straight at climbing fighters, then baiting them to low altitude in high speed dives where it has a speed advantage and can perform to the best of its abilities.
 +
 
 +
In a high-speed dive, the elevator tends to compress worse than other Corsairs, but is still responsive enough
 +
 
 +
'''Recommended playstyles''':
 +
 
 +
Due to its poor flight capabilities, it is not recommended that the AU-1 be used in a fighter role. Instead, it may be used to destroy ground targets in Air RB or to destroy enemy ground forces in Ground RB. Remember that this aircraft, if left alone, can deal incredible damage with its bombs, rockets, and cannons. But, also keep in mind that enemy fighters and SPAA will not struggle to shoot it down.
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
Line 117: Line 182:
 
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
+
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! Survivability
 
−
! colspan="3" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
| FMBC mk.1
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
|
 
−
| FLBC mk.1
 
−
| FRC mk.2
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| New 20 mm cannons
 
−
| AN-Mk 1
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| G-suit
 
−
| Engine injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
|
 
−
| LBC mk.1
 
−
| LFRC mk.12
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== 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:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Many load-out options provide flexibility for any battle situation
 +
* Strong ground-attack capability; armour plates are located in the underbelly of the plane to protect it from machine gun fire
 +
* Central bombs/tiny tims can be dropped/fired individually, wing bombs/HVARs dropped/fired in pairs
 +
* Can achieve missions for attackers while still receiving premium bonus (RP & SL)
 +
* Powerful engine at low altitude, can maintain speed gained in dives better than many fighters it faces
 +
* Can compete with fighters below 1,000 m, decent up to altitudes of 4,000 m
 +
* Easy to keep engine cool with manual engine controls
 +
* Four M3 cannons are very effective against enemy planes
 +
* Good flight performance at low altitude
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* While flight performance at low altitude is similar to the F4U-4B, it is worse in every aspect (except for a slightly faster top speed at very low altitudes)
 +
** Worse turn rate, slower acceleration & climb rate, and worse energy retention
 +
* Very weak high-altitude performance
 +
* Different supercharger setup from F4U-4B leads to more more rapid power loss as altitude increases
 +
* Flight performance is significantly hindered by heavier ordnance options, more so than other attackers
 +
* Bad manoeuvrability at both low and very high speeds
 +
* Cannons are inaccurate
  
 
== 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).'' -->
 +
{{main|F4U (Family)|l1=History of the F4U Corsair}}
 +
 
 +
The AU-1 stood out from the rest of the Corsair variants, as it was not designed as a fighter, but as a dedicated ground-attack aircraft. The F4U-6 was developed from the F4U-5 series, and as such had similar characteristics. It had the same metal skinned wing panels and blown cockpit design as the F4U-5 series. It was designed as a low altitude ground attack aircraft, and as such had a large number of modifications that other Corsairs did not receive.
 +
 
 +
The XFU-6 prototype, a modified F4U-5N, first flew on January 31, 1952. It had been renamed the XAU-1. Because the AU-1 was designed for low altitude ground attack, and not high altitude flying, the two-stage, variable-speed supercharger from the F4U-5 was replaced by the R2800-83W engine with a single-stage, manually controlled supercharger. This optimized the plane for low altitude flying. The R2800-83W did not require scoops on the cheeks. Ordnance options were also increased. The wing pylon count was ten, an increase from eight. There were five pylons on each wing. Each wing pylon could carry a 5 in HVAR rocket, a 100 lb bomb, or a 250 lb bomb. To carry 500 lb bombs on the wing pylons, only the outer, middle, and inner pylons could be used, for a total of six 500 lb bombs. The AU-1 also kept the three fuselage pylons, which could carry drop tanks, 1,000 lb bombs, and the centre pylon could hold up to a 2,000 lb bomb. Napalm bombs, Bat glide bombs, and Tiny Tim rockets could also be carried. The primary armament was the same four 20 mm cannons from the F4U-5, with 231 rounds for each gun. These cannons were modified for the AU-1 so that they could be fired in pairs or together. If fired in pairs, the firing time was increased by one hundred percent. Because the AU-1 would be flying low altitude missions, it would require extra armour to protect the pilot, engine, and fuel tank from ground fire. 25 armour pieces were added, and the oil coolers were moved from the nose to the wing roots, protecting them from ground fire towards the front of the plane. The AU-1 was an exceptional ground attack plane, but it had reduced speed and manoeuvrability compared to the other Corsair variants.
 +
 
 +
111 AU-1 aircraft were produced by Vought, and they were delivered between February 7 and October 10, 1952. They saw service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. They served with Marine squadrons during the second half of the Korean War, and the AU-1 was retired by the Navy reserves in 1956 and the Marine Corps in 1957. During the First Indochina War, 25 Marine AU-1s were given to France, and they were returned to the United States afterwards. Several AU-1s were given to the French Navy, and they served until 1964.
  
 
== 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=f4u-6_au-1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Images
 +
<gallery mode="packed" caption="AU-1 Camouflages" heights="200">
 +
File:AU-1 White Camo.jpg|Standard Camouflage
 +
File:AU-1 Blue.jpg|"Miss Penny" Camouflage
 +
</gallery>
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|f8ALCuU1qDU|'''Should You Grind The {{PAGENAME}}?''' - ''Sako Sniper''|NWfSRSDDAk8|'''{{PAGENAME}} Corsair - Engine And Elevator Too Weak For The Payload''' - ''Napalmratte''}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Related development
 +
* [[F4U (Family)]]
 +
** [[F4U-7|F4U-7 Corsair]] - A similar French variant of the F4U Corsair
 +
 
 +
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
 +
* [[AM-1|AM-1 Mauler]] and [[AD-2|AD-2 Skyraider]] - Comparable American attack aircraft
 +
* [[Do 335 A-0]] - German attack aircraft at a similar BR
 +
* [[IL-10 (Family)|IL-10]], [[Su-6 (AM-42)]], and [[Su-6 (M-71F)]] - Soviet attack aircraft at similar BRs
 +
* [[S.O.8000 Narval]] - A French attack aircraft with a similar BR
  
 
== 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/481668-au-1/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
 +
* [https://www.jdsf4u.be/f4u-6-au-1-vought-corsair AU-1 on ''The Bent Wing Bird plane site'']
 +
* [[wikipedia:Vought_F4U_Corsair|F4U Corsair on ''Wikipedia'']]
 +
* [https://www.vought.org/products/html/au-1.html AU-1 on vought.org]
 +
 
 +
=== References ===
 +
;Bibliography
 +
* "[https://www.jdsf4u.be/f4u-6-au-1-vought-corsair F4U-6 / AU-1 Vought Corsair]", ''F4U Corsair - The Bent Wing Bird plane site''
 +
* "[https://www.jdsf4u.be/type-of-plane-f4u Types of Plane F4U - Variants]", ''F4U Corsair - The Bent Wing Bird plane site''
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
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{{USA attackers}}
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Latest revision as of 20:41, 2 February 2024

AU-1
f4u-6_au-1.png
GarageImage AU-1.jpg
ArtImage AU-1.png
AU-1
USA flag.png USA
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
5.7 5.7 5.7
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
MARKET

Description

The AU-1 was a variant of the F4U Corsair developed from the F4U-5, and was originally designated as the F4U-6 but was renamed to AU-1. It was designed as a dedicated ground attack aircraft, unlike all the previous Corsairs which were designed as fighters. To fit that role the engine was optimized for low-altitude flight, additional armour was fitted, and the AU-1 had increased suspended armament capacity. The United States Marine Corps utilized the AU-1 in Korea starting in 1952, saw service in the Naval reserves from 1954 to early 1956 before it was officially retired in 1957.

Introduced during Update 1.97 "Viking Fury" as a reward for the 2020 "Space Race" event, the AU-1 is like a souped-up version of the Corsair for ground attack enthusiasts. It can carry a much larger payload than the typical Corsair due to additional pylons that can be installed under the airframe and wings. The AU-1 can still be used as a fighter in opportunistic moments against the enemy if they are distracted, but the overall weight penalty from the modifications make the AU-1 poor for dogfights.

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Max speed
at 4 267 m638 km/h
Turn time22 s
Max altitude9 500 m
EnginePratt & Whitney R2800-83WA
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight9 t

Compared to similarly tiered fighters, the AU-1 has mediocre flight performance, though the powerful engine and Corsair airframe allow it to perform decently as a support fighter at low alt when played to its strengths and not carrying ordnance. Although speed at low altitude is great, manoeuvrability is average at best, sustained climb quickly drops off with altitude (though it can zoom climb decently well below 2,000 m), and high-altitude performance is significantly lacking. Compared to other attackers, the AU-1 has above average speed and roll rate. It cannot turn as tightly as Soviet attackers or the Skyraiders, but it is more effective at boom and zoom tactics than its contemporary attackers. Compared to other single-engine attack planes, it can carry a larger bomb load, but flight performance is hindered more by payloads. When facing other planes, the AU-1's greatest strength is its incredible speed at very low altitudes: at sea level, no axis or Soviet prop can catch an unladen AU-1 travelling at maximum speed in a straight line.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 4,267 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 610 584 9500 23.1 23.8 14.2 14.2 500
Upgraded 674 638 20.9 22.0 25.4 19.0

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 + -
885 730 388 299 252 ~11 ~4
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 450 < 220 < 390 > 450

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear730 km/h
  • 4.7 mm steel underneath nose and engine
  • 4.7 mm steel underneath fuel tank
  • 4.7 mm steel underneath pilot's feet
  • 4.7 mm steel on the right of the central under fuselage
  • 4.7 mm steel behind pilot's head
  • 12.7 mm steel under nose
  • 12.7 mm steel under pilot
  • 12.7 mm steel behind pilot
  • 38 mm bulletproof glass in front of pilot
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 in front of pilot)

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB1 779 Sl icon.png
RB2 653 Sl icon.png
SB5 037 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts320 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 050 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 110 / 180 / 600 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 172 / 172 / 172 % 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 g suit.png
G-suit
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods ammo.png
anm3_belt_pack
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FMBC mk.1
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FLBC mk.1
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
FRC mk.2
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
anm3_new_gun
Mods pilon bomb.png
AN-Mk 1
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
LBC mk.I
Mods pilon rocket.png
LFRC mk.12

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: M3 (20 mm)

The AU-1 is armed with:

  • 4 x 20 mm M3 cannons, wing-mounted (246 rpg = 984 total)

Suspended armament

The AU-1 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Hardpoints AU-1.png
250 lb AN-M57 bombs 1 1* 1 1* 1 1 1* 1 1* 1
500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs 1* 1* 1* 1 1 1 1* 1* 1*
1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs 1 1 1
1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs 1 1 1
2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs 1
HVAR rockets 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Tiny Tim rockets 1 1 1
* 500 lb bombs cannot be equipped in conjunction with adjacent 250 lb bombs on hardpoints 2/4/10/12
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 10 x HVAR rockets
  • 3 x Tiny Tim rockets
  • 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (2,500 lb total)
  • 9 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,500 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (4,800 lb total)
  • 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb (2,000 lb total)

Usage in battles

Armament:

The AU-1's defining characteristic is its ability to carry incredible amounts of suspended armament - as much as a B-17 heavy bomber. In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 can destroy two bases (bombing points), and in Ground Realistic battles, the plane has the potential to be absolutely devastating against enemy ground forces. From carpet bombing, rocket barrages or precision drops, this plane can do it all.

Additionally, the four cannons provide very effective frontal armament (they're some of the best 20 mm cannons in the game) and the high ammunition count is a nice bonus, too. They wreak havoc on enemy aircraft, deal considerable damage to lightly armoured tanks and wheeled vehicles, and in Air Realistic battles can destroy light pillboxes and light tanks.

Flight Performance:

As a plane designed to provide close air support, maximum engine performance was not needed at higher altitudes. This leads to significant losses in speed and climb rate as altitude increases. The AU-1 still climbs well and is incredibly fast at the very low altitudes it was optimized for. It is less manoeuvrable than other Corsairs or single-engine attackers and is extremely sluggish when carrying payloads. If engaging enemy fighters, it is imperative to maintain speed as you can not rely on manoeuvrability or acceleration to stay alive.

In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 receives an attacker air-spawn. However its engine is quite weak at high altitudes, so players will be unable to take full advantage of the air-spawn to attack enemy fighters as they climb. If flown as a support fighter, the AU-1 is most effective when flown straight at climbing fighters, then baiting them to low altitude in high speed dives where it has a speed advantage and can perform to the best of its abilities.

In a high-speed dive, the elevator tends to compress worse than other Corsairs, but is still responsive enough

Recommended playstyles:

Due to its poor flight capabilities, it is not recommended that the AU-1 be used in a fighter role. Instead, it may be used to destroy ground targets in Air RB or to destroy enemy ground forces in Ground RB. Remember that this aircraft, if left alone, can deal incredible damage with its bombs, rockets, and cannons. But, also keep in mind that enemy fighters and SPAA will not struggle to shoot it down.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Many load-out options provide flexibility for any battle situation
  • Strong ground-attack capability; armour plates are located in the underbelly of the plane to protect it from machine gun fire
  • Central bombs/tiny tims can be dropped/fired individually, wing bombs/HVARs dropped/fired in pairs
  • Can achieve missions for attackers while still receiving premium bonus (RP & SL)
  • Powerful engine at low altitude, can maintain speed gained in dives better than many fighters it faces
  • Can compete with fighters below 1,000 m, decent up to altitudes of 4,000 m
  • Easy to keep engine cool with manual engine controls
  • Four M3 cannons are very effective against enemy planes
  • Good flight performance at low altitude

Cons:

  • While flight performance at low altitude is similar to the F4U-4B, it is worse in every aspect (except for a slightly faster top speed at very low altitudes)
    • Worse turn rate, slower acceleration & climb rate, and worse energy retention
  • Very weak high-altitude performance
  • Different supercharger setup from F4U-4B leads to more more rapid power loss as altitude increases
  • Flight performance is significantly hindered by heavier ordnance options, more so than other attackers
  • Bad manoeuvrability at both low and very high speeds
  • Cannons are inaccurate

History

Main article: History of the F4U Corsair

The AU-1 stood out from the rest of the Corsair variants, as it was not designed as a fighter, but as a dedicated ground-attack aircraft. The F4U-6 was developed from the F4U-5 series, and as such had similar characteristics. It had the same metal skinned wing panels and blown cockpit design as the F4U-5 series. It was designed as a low altitude ground attack aircraft, and as such had a large number of modifications that other Corsairs did not receive.

The XFU-6 prototype, a modified F4U-5N, first flew on January 31, 1952. It had been renamed the XAU-1. Because the AU-1 was designed for low altitude ground attack, and not high altitude flying, the two-stage, variable-speed supercharger from the F4U-5 was replaced by the R2800-83W engine with a single-stage, manually controlled supercharger. This optimized the plane for low altitude flying. The R2800-83W did not require scoops on the cheeks. Ordnance options were also increased. The wing pylon count was ten, an increase from eight. There were five pylons on each wing. Each wing pylon could carry a 5 in HVAR rocket, a 100 lb bomb, or a 250 lb bomb. To carry 500 lb bombs on the wing pylons, only the outer, middle, and inner pylons could be used, for a total of six 500 lb bombs. The AU-1 also kept the three fuselage pylons, which could carry drop tanks, 1,000 lb bombs, and the centre pylon could hold up to a 2,000 lb bomb. Napalm bombs, Bat glide bombs, and Tiny Tim rockets could also be carried. The primary armament was the same four 20 mm cannons from the F4U-5, with 231 rounds for each gun. These cannons were modified for the AU-1 so that they could be fired in pairs or together. If fired in pairs, the firing time was increased by one hundred percent. Because the AU-1 would be flying low altitude missions, it would require extra armour to protect the pilot, engine, and fuel tank from ground fire. 25 armour pieces were added, and the oil coolers were moved from the nose to the wing roots, protecting them from ground fire towards the front of the plane. The AU-1 was an exceptional ground attack plane, but it had reduced speed and manoeuvrability compared to the other Corsair variants.

111 AU-1 aircraft were produced by Vought, and they were delivered between February 7 and October 10, 1952. They saw service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. They served with Marine squadrons during the second half of the Korean War, and the AU-1 was retired by the Navy reserves in 1956 and the Marine Corps in 1957. During the First Indochina War, 25 Marine AU-1s were given to France, and they were returned to the United States afterwards. Several AU-1s were given to the French Navy, and they served until 1964.

Media

Skins
Images
  • AU-1 Camouflages

  • Standard Camouflage

  • "Miss Penny" Camouflage

Videos
Should You Grind The AU-1? - Sako Sniper
AU-1 Corsair - Engine And Elevator Too Weak For The Payload - Napalmratte

See also

Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links

References

Bibliography


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

USA strike aircraft
Douglas  A-20G-25 · A-26B-10 · A-26B-50 · A2D-1 · AD-2 · AD-4 · A-1H
North American  A-36 · PBJ-1H · PBJ-1J
Other  AM-1 · AU-1 · XA-38

USA premium aircraft
Fighters  Thach's F2A-1 · Galer's F3F-2 · F2G-1 · F4U-4B VMF-214 · P-26A-34 · Rasmussen's P-36A · P-40C · P-43A-1
  P-47M-1-RE · ⋠P-47M-1-RE · P-51A · P-51D-10 · P-51D-20-NA · ␠Kingcobra · XP-55
  ▃A6M2 · ▃Ki-43-II · ▃Ki-61-Ib · ▃Bf 109 F-4 · ▃Fw 190 A-8 · ▃Spitfire LF Mk IXc
Twin-engine fighters  XP-38G · Bong's P-38J-15 · P-38K · YP-38 · P-61A-11 · XF5F · XP-50 · F7F-3
Jet fighters  P-59A · F-86F-35 · F-89B · F-89D · F-4S Phantom II · F-5C · F-20A
Strike aircraft  A-1H · A2D-1 · AU-1 · XA-38 · AV-8A · AV-8B (NA) · A-6E TRAM · A-10A
Bombers  A-26C-45DT · B-10B · BTD-1 · PBM-3 "Mariner" · PBM-5A "Mariner" · PV-2D

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