Difference between revisions of "Ki-49-IIb/L"

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{{Specs-Card|code=ki-49_2b_late}}
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{{About
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| about = Japanese medium bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other versions
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| link = Ki-49 (Family)
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}}
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{{Specs-Card
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|code=ki-49_2b_late
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_Ki-49-IIb_L.jpg|ArtImage_Ki-49-IIb_L.png}}
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}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
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''In the description, the first part needs to 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 screenshot of the vehicle. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it is talking about.''
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.
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 +
The Ki-49's role is a low-altitude light bomber capable of destroying ground targets such as pillboxes and tanks. Although hindered by a low total bomb capacity, this aircraft is renowned for its impressive manoeuvrability. This being said, it is very easy for the Ki-49 to hover above an area and drop all of its payloads rather quickly. Heavy bombers such as the G8N1 Renzan have a harder time due to their sheer size and slow rate of turn. Make sure to select the 4 x 250 kg bomb loadouts if attacking targets like tanks, pillboxes, or smaller ships.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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=== Flight Performance ===
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=== Flight performance ===
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''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
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{{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.'' -->
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[[File:Ki-49-IIb L firing defensive Type 89.png|thumb|Ki-49-IIb/L firing the [[Type 89 (7.7 mm)|Type 89]] defensive turret.]]
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 +
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
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! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,150 m)
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! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
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! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
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! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 +
|-
 +
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 +
|-
 +
! Stock
 +
| 482 || 467 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 31.0 || 31.8 || 9.6 || 9.6 || rowspan="2" | 650
 +
|-
 +
! Upgraded
 +
| 525 || 502 || 29.0 || 30.0 || 16.1 || 12.5
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Details ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | Features
 +
|-
 +
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
 +
|-
 +
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | Limits
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
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! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 +
|-
 +
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 +
|-
 +
| 580 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 427 || 398 || 250 || ~5 || ~3
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 260 || < 360 || < 350 || > 334
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
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''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured. Describe the armour, if there is any, also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
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{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* 68 mm Bulletproof glass in front of pilots
 +
* 16.5 mm Steel plate behind the pilots
 +
* 12.5 mm Steel plate behind nose gunner
 +
* 12.5 mm Steel plate on the fuselage top
 +
* 12.5 mm Steel plate surrounded by a dorsal gunner
 +
* 12.5 mm Steel plate in front of the tail gunner
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
 
 +
Being a bomber, speed is not necessarily an important attribute, however, payload and armament are. Upgrading the bombs allows for more target flexibility and damage potential while turret upgrades will help survivability. The turret belts and the "new turrets" upgrades are useful. The "new turrets" upgrade will allow you to fire the turrets for longer periods of time and having access to multiple ammunition belts is also helpful. The engine upgrades are also useful in that they will help you reach your target faster and will control engine temperature. Having all of the weapons upgrades will help drastically in unlocking the other modules on this aircraft.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
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=== Offensive armament ===
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{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
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''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.''
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=== Suspended armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
[[File:Ki-49-IIb L firing nose turret.png|thumb|Unlike the [[G4M1]] and [[Ki-21-Ia]], the Ki-49-IIb/L can fire its frontal turret at a slightly upwards angle and not just downards.]]
 +
{{main|Army Type 94 GPHE (50 kg)|Army Type 92 GPHE (250 kg)|Army Type 92 GPHE (500 kg)}}
  
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=== Suspended armament ===
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The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
−
''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.''
+
 
 +
* 12 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (600 kg total)
 +
* 4 x 250 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bombs (1,000 kg total)
 +
* 1 x 500 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bomb (500 kg total)
 +
 
 +
The Ki-49-IIb/L shares the same somewhat lacking bombload options as all other members the [[Ki-49 (Family)|Ki-49 family]] , able to carry a maximum bomb load of 1,000 kg (in the form of 4 x 250 kg bombs). By comparison many bombers around this battle rating can carry double that. The best loadout is generally the 4 x 250 kg bombs as it is by far the largest total load; the 12 x 50 kg bombs are not much use on account of their small size and thus limited damage. Although a reduction in total bomb load the single 500 kg bomb can be useful if you want to kill a ground target, due to it's larger blast radius.
  
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== Defensive armament ===
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''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.''
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{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
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<!-- ''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|Ho-1 (20 mm)|Ho-104 (12.7 mm)|Type 89 (7.7 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 +
 
 +
* 1 x 20 mm Ho-1 cannon, dorsal turret (180 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 12.7 mm Ho-104 machine gun, nose turret (250 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 12.7 mm Ho-104 machine gun, ventral turret (250 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 12.7 mm Ho-104 machine gun, tail turret (250 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (414 rpg)
 +
 
 +
The defensive armament of the Ki-49-IIb/L is identical to the preceding [[Ki-49-IIb]] , and similar to all other members of the [[Ki-49 (Family)|Ki-49 family]]. While the 20 mm cannon is certainly nice to have, its effectiveness is somewhat limited by being blocked from shooting directly rearwards by the aircraft's tail; it also cannot shoot downwards thanks to its location on the top of the aircraft. The rest of the defensive armament is un-remarkable consisting of single 12.7 and 7.7 mm machine guns.
 +
 
 +
== 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).'' -->
 +
[[File:Ki-49-IIb L firing nose turret close-up.png|thumb|The front gunner will be an important asset in RB. Once you have expended the bomb payload, this gunner can take out soft ground targets.]]
 +
This aircraft has the ability to hold up to 1,000 kg of bombs in several different variations. 12 x 50 kg bombs, 4 x 250 kg bombs, 1 x 500 kg bomb. Use the 12 x 50 kg bombs to attack light tanks and light pillboxes. They are not viable against bigger targets since direct hits are needed to destroy. This payload is particularly useful on maps like Zhengzhou where there is an abundance on non-moving targets (light pillboxes). Use the 4 x 250 kg bomb versions to destroy heavier targets such as medium tanks, pillboxes, destroyers, and cargo ships. Use the 500 kg bomb to destroy targets like carriers or mini-bases.
 +
 
 +
If attacked by fighters, it is important to remember and recognize the Ki-49's turning capabilities. It is actually possible to win lateral turn fights against fighters with this aircraft in arcade battles. Try not to act like a "sitting duck" because the Ki-49 features little armour protection and has limited defensive capabilities as far as weapons go. If you are in a sticky situation, the hard-hitting 20 mm dorsal cannon is deadly. The only problem is that it's not located directly on the tail. If an enemy is directly behind or below the Ki-49, the 20 mm tail gunner's arc will not reach it. Therefore, you may need to change altitude in order to have the enemy plane both above and behind you. Pulling hard manoeuvres will throw the enemy off and allow you to set up for more defensive fire.
 +
 
 +
In arcade battles, this aircraft is particularly proficient at bombing bases, especially with a maxed reload crew skill. Since the Ki-49 can virtually turn on a dime, instead of having to line up longer bombing runs like heavy bombers you can "hover" over the base or airfield and attempt dive attacks. The 500 kg bomb is particularly useful here because you only have to drop one bomb instead of spamming multiple. It's also possible to use this same tactic against pillboxes or tanks. With fighter cover, a good reload time skill and good aim it's possible to destroy dozens of ground units.
 +
 
 +
Although unconventional, this aircraft is a fantastic weapon if you want to bait the enemy. Ideally, you would want to attract a higher flying enemy down to you and to get into a turnfight. This way, depending on the enemy aircraft you can outmanoeuvre and distract him while teammates fly down to finish him off.
 +
 
 +
The best way of grinding with this aircraft is to play cautiously and to use communication. As with any bomber, if you're caught alone or off guard you are as good as dead. Although not a sure tactic, having a fighter escort will boost RP gains drastically. This goes for both Arcade and Realistic battles. Generally, try to destroy as many targets as possible without wasting bombs. If done in a speedy fashion it is possible to drop multiple payloads in RB. The same goes for simulator battles. In Arcade battles, having a high reload speed and a fighter escort will allow for constant bombardment. If done correctly, flying the Ki-49 in all modes will net you large amounts of RP.
 +
 
 +
In realistic battles, your gunners might deter the stray fighter, but won't deter a horde of them. American fighters think you are the perfect target for .50 cal machine guns. What to do? Wait out the battle patiently. In all Realistic Battles, fights will get dragged to lower altitudes, and you can start climbing and head into the main are once you are high enough. One other strategy is to rush attack. Take out the 250 kg bombs and destroy four Pillboxes and then run back to base immediately to restock. This will allow for fighter support to come to you while you head back to base.
  
−
== Usage in the battles ==
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
−
''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 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).''
+
{| 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 || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Combined || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== 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. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''
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<!-- ''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".'' -->
 +
[[File:Ki-49-IIb L tail turret.png|thumb|The back gunner on the Ki-49-IIb/L is well protected, addressing issues with the [[G4M1]] and [[Ki-21-Ia]].]]
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Very good manoeuvrability and turn time for a bomber
 +
* Variety of payload options
 +
* Multiple gunners for protection in almost all directions
 +
* Some armour protection around pilots and gunners
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
−
*
+
 
 +
* Prone to engine and fuel fires
 +
* Relatively slow
 +
* Low total bomb capacity (1,000 kg)
 +
* Generally poor defensive armament
 +
* Low rate of climb
  
 
== 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 an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 +
[[File:Ki-49-IIb L gunner compartment.png|thumb|Ki-49-IIb/L's gunner compartment, which houses the [[Type 89 (7.7 mm)|Type 89]] gunners as well as the lower [[Ho-103 (12.7 mm)|Ho-103]] gunner.]]
 +
 
 +
;Nakajima Ki-49-II Donryu Army Bomber, type 100 model 2 (code name "''Helen''")
 +
 
 +
Prior to the outbreak of the War in the Pacific, the Japanese utilised the Ki-49 in China where it served well. It wasn't until the spring of 1942 that the Japanese military determined that the Ki-49 should be fitted with upgraded engines, namely the Nakajima Ha-109 radial piston engines which were rated at 1450 hp. Upgrading the engines, however, required slight modification of the engine nacelles to accommodate the newer engines even though they were roughly the same size as the original engines. Unfortunately, the oil cooler would not fit inside the nacelle along with the new engine and was instead mounted on the exterior of the nacelle. Other changes were also made to improve combat conditions of this aircraft: upgraded armour protection protecting the aircrew was installed along with self-sealing fuel tanks and a bombsight. The defensive armament remained similar to that of the Ki-49-I, however, the Type 89 machine guns were replaced with Type 98 7.92 mm machine guns (which were based on the Rheinmetall-Borsig MG.15). The normal bomb-carrying capacity of the aircraft was increased to 1,000 kg. A few short months later in August of 1942, this new version of the Donryu entered production under the designation Ki-49-IIa (model 2 Ko).
 +
 
 +
Quickly it was determined that the defensive machine guns were proven to be ineffective against Allied fighters and this required a new modification, which became the Ki-49-IIb (model 2 Otsu) implemented with stronger defensive weaponry. In the bow, stern, and ventral firing positions, the 7.92 mm Type 98 machine guns were replaced with 12.7 mm Ho-103 machine guns (the Type 1 Japanese version of the .50 cal Browning M2 machine guns). The two guns on the aircraft's sides were replaced with the original 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns removed during the Ki-49-Ia upgrade. The bomb load remained unchanged at 1,000 kg. In later series, the Ki-49-IIb's common exhaust tube was replaced with several individual pipes. Even though the Ki-49-II bombers went through several revisions and upgrades, they were unable to completely replace the older models still in service. These bombers were used mainly in New Guinea, and China, and, in October of 1944, they were transferred to the Philippines where they actively participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf. The Ki-49 was utilised as a jack-of-all-trades aircraft as she was used as both a day and a night bomber, long-range reconnaissance, transport, and anti-submarine patrols to name a few. Towards the end of the war, the Ki-49s were assigned to kamikaze units and modified for such action. Modifications for the kamikaze missions included stripping out all of the defensive armaments, the crew was reduced to two pilots and the bomb load was increased to 1,600 kg. Production of the Ki-49 ceased in December of 1944. In all its different variants, a total of 819 Ki-49s were constructed.
 +
 
 +
The first unit to receive Donryus was the 61st Sentai in China. An unknown amount of Ki-49s was involved in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.
 +
 
 +
* 95th Sentai, Papua New Guinea 1943
 +
* 61st Sentai, French Indochina 1944
 +
* 7th Sentai, 2nd Chutai 1944-45
 +
* 24th Sentai, 2nd Chutai Philippines 1944-45
 +
* 62nd Sentai 3rd Chutai Burma 1944
 +
 
 +
{{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'}}}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
 +
Nakajima Ki-49-II Donryu Army Bomber, type 100 model 2 (code name "Helen")
 +
 
 +
In the spring of 1942, it was decided that the Ki-49 should be fitted with new engines, the Nakajima Ha-109 radial piston engines, rated at 1450 hp. This required only a slight modification of the engine nacelles, as the new engine was a similar size to that of its predecessor. However, the oil cooler could not fit inside the nacelle along with the engine and was put outside, instead. Other changes were made to improve combat conditions: the armour protecting the airplane's crew was upgraded and self-sealing fuel tanks were installed, as well as a new bomb sight.
 +
 
 +
The defensive armament remained similar to that of the Ki-49-I, but the Type 89 machine guns were replaced with 7.92 mm Type 98 machine guns (which were based on the Rheinmetall-Borsig MG.15). Normal bomb carrying capacity was increased to 1,000 kg.
 +
 
 +
In August of 1942, the new version of the Donryu entered production, under the designation Ki-49-IIa (model 2Ko). However, the fighters' machine guns were soon proven to be ineffective against Allied fighters, so a new modification, the Ki-49-IIb (model 2Otsu) was designed with stronger defensive weaponry. In the bow, stern, and lower firing locations, the 7.92 mm Type 98 machine guns were replaced with 12.7 mm Ho-103 machine guns (the Type 1 Japanese version of the .50 cal Browning M2). The two guns on the aircraft's sides were replaced with the original 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns. The bomb load remained unchanged.
 +
 
 +
In later series, the Ki-49-IIb's common exhaust was replaced with several separate pipes.
 +
 
 +
The Ki-49-II bombers were unable to completely replace the older models in service. They were used mainly in New Guinea and China, and, in October of 1944, they took active participation in the Battle of Leyte.
 +
 
 +
The Ki-49 was used as both a day and a night bomber as well as for long-range reconnaissance, transport, and anti-submarine patrols. Towards the end of the war, they were used in kamikaze units. For kamikaze missions, the Ki-49 was stripped of all defensive armaments, the crew was reduced to two pilots, and the bomb load was increased to 1,600 kg.
 +
 
 +
Production of the Ki-49 ceased in December of 1944. In all, 819 Ki-49s were constructed, including all variants.
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as 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=ki-49_2b_late Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Images
 +
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="200">
 +
File:Ki-49-IIb L in flight.png|<small>Ki-49-IIb/L in flight</small>
 +
</gallery>
  
−
== Read 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;''
 
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
−
''ETC.''
 
  
−
== Sources ==
+
reference to the series of the aircraft;
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees. -->
 +
 
 +
* [[Ki-49-I]]
 +
* [[Ki-49-IIa]]
 +
* [[Ki-49-IIb]]
 +
 
 +
== External links ==
 +
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
* [http://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=559 [Military Factory<nowiki>]</nowiki> Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu (Helen)]
 +
* [http://www.pilotfriend.com/photo_albums/timeline/ww2/Nakajima%20Ki%2049%20Helen.htm [Pilot Friend<nowiki>]</nowiki> Nakajima Ki 49 Helen]
 +
* [http://wp.scn.ru/en/ww2/b/1033/65 [Wings Palette<nowiki>]</nowiki> Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu/Helen]
 +
 
 +
{{AirManufacturer Nakajima}}
 +
{{Japan bombers}}

Latest revision as of 16:55, 16 November 2022

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the Japanese medium bomber Ki-49-IIb/L. For other versions, see Ki-49 (Family).
Ki-49-IIb/L
ki-49_2b_late.png
GarageImage Ki-49-IIb L.jpg
ArtImage Ki-49-IIb L.png
Ki-49-IIb/L
Japan flag.png Japan
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.7 3.7 4.0
Class:
Research:13 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:76 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Ki-49-IIb Donryu /Late is a rank III Japanese bomber with a battle rating of 3.7 (AB/RB) and 4.0 (SB). It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27.

The Ki-49's role is a low-altitude light bomber capable of destroying ground targets such as pillboxes and tanks. Although hindered by a low total bomb capacity, this aircraft is renowned for its impressive manoeuvrability. This being said, it is very easy for the Ki-49 to hover above an area and drop all of its payloads rather quickly. Heavy bombers such as the G8N1 Renzan have a harder time due to their sheer size and slow rate of turn. Make sure to select the 4 x 250 kg bomb loadouts if attacking targets like tanks, pillboxes, or smaller ships.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 5 150 m502 km/h
Turn time30 s
Max altitude9 300 m
Engine2 х Nakajima Ha-109
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight11 t
Ki-49-IIb/L firing the Type 89 defensive turret.
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 5,150 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 482 467 9300 31.0 31.8 9.6 9.6 650
Upgraded 525 502 29.0 30.0 16.1 12.5

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
580 300 427 398 250 ~5 ~3
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 260 < 360 < 350 > 334

Survivability and armour

Crew8 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear300 km/h
  • 68 mm Bulletproof glass in front of pilots
  • 16.5 mm Steel plate behind the pilots
  • 12.5 mm Steel plate behind nose gunner
  • 12.5 mm Steel plate on the fuselage top
  • 12.5 mm Steel plate surrounded by a dorsal gunner
  • 12.5 mm Steel plate in front of the tail gunner

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB1 191 → 1 530 Sl icon.png
RB2 217 → 2 848 Sl icon.png
SB4 606 → 5 918 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications24 400 Rp icon.png
44 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 100 Ge icon.png
Crew training22 000 Sl icon.png
Experts76 000 Sl icon.png
Aces500 Ge icon.png
Research Aces320 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
80 / 170 / 310 % Sl icon.png
142 / 142 / 142 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 600 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 600 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type97_turret_belt_pack
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
12 in (mod30)
Research:
1 200 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 200 Sl icon.png
130 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
type89_turret_new_gun
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
14 in (mod35)
Research:
1 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 500 Sl icon.png
150 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
safat12_turret_belt_pack
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
ho1_turret_belt_pack
Research:
1 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
2 700 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
ho103_turret_new_gun
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 600 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods turret gun.png
20mmtype97_turret_new_gun
Research:
2 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
3 600 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png

Being a bomber, speed is not necessarily an important attribute, however, payload and armament are. Upgrading the bombs allows for more target flexibility and damage potential while turret upgrades will help survivability. The turret belts and the "new turrets" upgrades are useful. The "new turrets" upgrade will allow you to fire the turrets for longer periods of time and having access to multiple ammunition belts is also helpful. The engine upgrades are also useful in that they will help you reach your target faster and will control engine temperature. Having all of the weapons upgrades will help drastically in unlocking the other modules on this aircraft.

Armaments

Suspended armament

List of setups (3)
Setup 112 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bomb
Setup 24 x 250 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bomb
Setup 32 x 500 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bomb
Unlike the G4M1 and Ki-21-Ia, the Ki-49-IIb/L can fire its frontal turret at a slightly upwards angle and not just downards.
Main articles: Army Type 94 GPHE (50 kg), Army Type 92 GPHE (250 kg), Army Type 92 GPHE (500 kg)

The Ki-49-IIb/L can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 12 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (600 kg total)
  • 4 x 250 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 1 x 500 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bomb (500 kg total)

The Ki-49-IIb/L shares the same somewhat lacking bombload options as all other members the Ki-49 family , able to carry a maximum bomb load of 1,000 kg (in the form of 4 x 250 kg bombs). By comparison many bombers around this battle rating can carry double that. The best loadout is generally the 4 x 250 kg bombs as it is by far the largest total load; the 12 x 50 kg bombs are not much use on account of their small size and thus limited damage. Although a reduction in total bomb load the single 500 kg bomb can be useful if you want to kill a ground target, due to it's larger blast radius.

Defensive armament

Turret20 mm Ho-1 cannon
Ammunition180 rounds
Fire rate400 shots/min
3 х Turret12.7 mm Ho-104 machine gun
Ammunition250 rounds
Fire rate900 shots/min
2 х Turret7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun
Ammunition414 rounds
Fire rate900 shots/min
Main articles: Ho-1 (20 mm), Ho-104 (12.7 mm), Type 89 (7.7 mm)

The Ki-49-IIb/L is defended by:

  • 1 x 20 mm Ho-1 cannon, dorsal turret (180 rpg)
  • 1 x 12.7 mm Ho-104 machine gun, nose turret (250 rpg)
  • 1 x 12.7 mm Ho-104 machine gun, ventral turret (250 rpg)
  • 1 x 12.7 mm Ho-104 machine gun, tail turret (250 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (414 rpg)

The defensive armament of the Ki-49-IIb/L is identical to the preceding Ki-49-IIb , and similar to all other members of the Ki-49 family. While the 20 mm cannon is certainly nice to have, its effectiveness is somewhat limited by being blocked from shooting directly rearwards by the aircraft's tail; it also cannot shoot downwards thanks to its location on the top of the aircraft. The rest of the defensive armament is un-remarkable consisting of single 12.7 and 7.7 mm machine guns.

Usage in battles

The front gunner will be an important asset in RB. Once you have expended the bomb payload, this gunner can take out soft ground targets.

This aircraft has the ability to hold up to 1,000 kg of bombs in several different variations. 12 x 50 kg bombs, 4 x 250 kg bombs, 1 x 500 kg bomb. Use the 12 x 50 kg bombs to attack light tanks and light pillboxes. They are not viable against bigger targets since direct hits are needed to destroy. This payload is particularly useful on maps like Zhengzhou where there is an abundance on non-moving targets (light pillboxes). Use the 4 x 250 kg bomb versions to destroy heavier targets such as medium tanks, pillboxes, destroyers, and cargo ships. Use the 500 kg bomb to destroy targets like carriers or mini-bases.

If attacked by fighters, it is important to remember and recognize the Ki-49's turning capabilities. It is actually possible to win lateral turn fights against fighters with this aircraft in arcade battles. Try not to act like a "sitting duck" because the Ki-49 features little armour protection and has limited defensive capabilities as far as weapons go. If you are in a sticky situation, the hard-hitting 20 mm dorsal cannon is deadly. The only problem is that it's not located directly on the tail. If an enemy is directly behind or below the Ki-49, the 20 mm tail gunner's arc will not reach it. Therefore, you may need to change altitude in order to have the enemy plane both above and behind you. Pulling hard manoeuvres will throw the enemy off and allow you to set up for more defensive fire.

In arcade battles, this aircraft is particularly proficient at bombing bases, especially with a maxed reload crew skill. Since the Ki-49 can virtually turn on a dime, instead of having to line up longer bombing runs like heavy bombers you can "hover" over the base or airfield and attempt dive attacks. The 500 kg bomb is particularly useful here because you only have to drop one bomb instead of spamming multiple. It's also possible to use this same tactic against pillboxes or tanks. With fighter cover, a good reload time skill and good aim it's possible to destroy dozens of ground units.

Although unconventional, this aircraft is a fantastic weapon if you want to bait the enemy. Ideally, you would want to attract a higher flying enemy down to you and to get into a turnfight. This way, depending on the enemy aircraft you can outmanoeuvre and distract him while teammates fly down to finish him off.

The best way of grinding with this aircraft is to play cautiously and to use communication. As with any bomber, if you're caught alone or off guard you are as good as dead. Although not a sure tactic, having a fighter escort will boost RP gains drastically. This goes for both Arcade and Realistic battles. Generally, try to destroy as many targets as possible without wasting bombs. If done in a speedy fashion it is possible to drop multiple payloads in RB. The same goes for simulator battles. In Arcade battles, having a high reload speed and a fighter escort will allow for constant bombardment. If done correctly, flying the Ki-49 in all modes will net you large amounts of RP.

In realistic battles, your gunners might deter the stray fighter, but won't deter a horde of them. American fighters think you are the perfect target for .50 cal machine guns. What to do? Wait out the battle patiently. In all Realistic Battles, fights will get dragged to lower altitudes, and you can start climbing and head into the main are once you are high enough. One other strategy is to rush attack. Take out the 250 kg bombs and destroy four Pillboxes and then run back to base immediately to restock. This will allow for fighter support to come to you while you head back to base.

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 Controllable
2 gears 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

The back gunner on the Ki-49-IIb/L is well protected, addressing issues with the G4M1 and Ki-21-Ia.

Pros:

  • Very good manoeuvrability and turn time for a bomber
  • Variety of payload options
  • Multiple gunners for protection in almost all directions
  • Some armour protection around pilots and gunners

Cons:

  • Prone to engine and fuel fires
  • Relatively slow
  • Low total bomb capacity (1,000 kg)
  • Generally poor defensive armament
  • Low rate of climb

History

Ki-49-IIb/L's gunner compartment, which houses the Type 89 gunners as well as the lower Ho-103 gunner.
Nakajima Ki-49-II Donryu Army Bomber, type 100 model 2 (code name "Helen")

Prior to the outbreak of the War in the Pacific, the Japanese utilised the Ki-49 in China where it served well. It wasn't until the spring of 1942 that the Japanese military determined that the Ki-49 should be fitted with upgraded engines, namely the Nakajima Ha-109 radial piston engines which were rated at 1450 hp. Upgrading the engines, however, required slight modification of the engine nacelles to accommodate the newer engines even though they were roughly the same size as the original engines. Unfortunately, the oil cooler would not fit inside the nacelle along with the new engine and was instead mounted on the exterior of the nacelle. Other changes were also made to improve combat conditions of this aircraft: upgraded armour protection protecting the aircrew was installed along with self-sealing fuel tanks and a bombsight. The defensive armament remained similar to that of the Ki-49-I, however, the Type 89 machine guns were replaced with Type 98 7.92 mm machine guns (which were based on the Rheinmetall-Borsig MG.15). The normal bomb-carrying capacity of the aircraft was increased to 1,000 kg. A few short months later in August of 1942, this new version of the Donryu entered production under the designation Ki-49-IIa (model 2 Ko).

Quickly it was determined that the defensive machine guns were proven to be ineffective against Allied fighters and this required a new modification, which became the Ki-49-IIb (model 2 Otsu) implemented with stronger defensive weaponry. In the bow, stern, and ventral firing positions, the 7.92 mm Type 98 machine guns were replaced with 12.7 mm Ho-103 machine guns (the Type 1 Japanese version of the .50 cal Browning M2 machine guns). The two guns on the aircraft's sides were replaced with the original 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns removed during the Ki-49-Ia upgrade. The bomb load remained unchanged at 1,000 kg. In later series, the Ki-49-IIb's common exhaust tube was replaced with several individual pipes. Even though the Ki-49-II bombers went through several revisions and upgrades, they were unable to completely replace the older models still in service. These bombers were used mainly in New Guinea, and China, and, in October of 1944, they were transferred to the Philippines where they actively participated in the Battle of Leyte Gulf. The Ki-49 was utilised as a jack-of-all-trades aircraft as she was used as both a day and a night bomber, long-range reconnaissance, transport, and anti-submarine patrols to name a few. Towards the end of the war, the Ki-49s were assigned to kamikaze units and modified for such action. Modifications for the kamikaze missions included stripping out all of the defensive armaments, the crew was reduced to two pilots and the bomb load was increased to 1,600 kg. Production of the Ki-49 ceased in December of 1944. In all its different variants, a total of 819 Ki-49s were constructed.

The first unit to receive Donryus was the 61st Sentai in China. An unknown amount of Ki-49s was involved in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.

  • 95th Sentai, Papua New Guinea 1943
  • 61st Sentai, French Indochina 1944
  • 7th Sentai, 2nd Chutai 1944-45
  • 24th Sentai, 2nd Chutai Philippines 1944-45
  • 62nd Sentai 3rd Chutai Burma 1944


Archive of the in-game description

Nakajima Ki-49-II Donryu Army Bomber, type 100 model 2 (code name "Helen")

In the spring of 1942, it was decided that the Ki-49 should be fitted with new engines, the Nakajima Ha-109 radial piston engines, rated at 1450 hp. This required only a slight modification of the engine nacelles, as the new engine was a similar size to that of its predecessor. However, the oil cooler could not fit inside the nacelle along with the engine and was put outside, instead. Other changes were made to improve combat conditions: the armour protecting the airplane's crew was upgraded and self-sealing fuel tanks were installed, as well as a new bomb sight.

The defensive armament remained similar to that of the Ki-49-I, but the Type 89 machine guns were replaced with 7.92 mm Type 98 machine guns (which were based on the Rheinmetall-Borsig MG.15). Normal bomb carrying capacity was increased to 1,000 kg.

In August of 1942, the new version of the Donryu entered production, under the designation Ki-49-IIa (model 2Ko). However, the fighters' machine guns were soon proven to be ineffective against Allied fighters, so a new modification, the Ki-49-IIb (model 2Otsu) was designed with stronger defensive weaponry. In the bow, stern, and lower firing locations, the 7.92 mm Type 98 machine guns were replaced with 12.7 mm Ho-103 machine guns (the Type 1 Japanese version of the .50 cal Browning M2). The two guns on the aircraft's sides were replaced with the original 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns. The bomb load remained unchanged.

In later series, the Ki-49-IIb's common exhaust was replaced with several separate pipes.

The Ki-49-II bombers were unable to completely replace the older models in service. They were used mainly in New Guinea and China, and, in October of 1944, they took active participation in the Battle of Leyte.

The Ki-49 was used as both a day and a night bomber as well as for long-range reconnaissance, transport, and anti-submarine patrols. Towards the end of the war, they were used in kamikaze units. For kamikaze missions, the Ki-49 was stripped of all defensive armaments, the crew was reduced to two pilots, and the bomb load was increased to 1,600 kg.

Production of the Ki-49 ceased in December of 1944. In all, 819 Ki-49s were constructed, including all variants.


Media

Skins
Images

  • Ki-49-IIb/L in flight

See also

External links


Nakajima Aircraft Company (中島飛行機株式会社 )
Fighters  Ki-27 otsu · Ki-27 otsu Tachiarai
  Ki-43-I · Ki-43-II · Ki-43-III otsu
  Ki-44-I · Ki-44-I 34 · Ki-44-II otsu · Ki-44-II hei
  Ki-84 ko · Ki-84 otsu · Ki-84 hei
  Ki-87
Hydroplanes  A6M2-N*
Interceptors  J1N1 · J5N1
Bombers  B5N2
  B6N1 Model 11 · B6N2 Model 12 · B6N2a Model 12Ko
  G5N1 · G8N1
  Ki-49-I · Ki-49-IIa · Ki-49-IIb · Ki-49-IIb/L
Recon  E8N2
Jet Fighters  Kikka
Captured  ␗Ki-27 otsu · ▃Ki-43-II · ␗Ki-43-III ko · ␗Ki-44-II hei · ␗Ki-84 ko
  *Refit of the Mitsubishi A6M2 mod. 11
See also  Fuji Heavy Industries (1957-2017)

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

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