Difference between revisions of "He 162 A-2"

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{{Specs-Card|code=he-162a-2}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = German jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = German jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other version
+
| usage = the other version
 
| link = He 162 A-1
 
| link = He 162 A-1
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=he-162a-2
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
<!--''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 a 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.''-->
+
<!-- ''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 '''{{PAGENAME}}''' in the garage]]
+
Initially designated the He 500, the He 162 was a very unique jet fighter. The He 162 was aptly nicknamed "Salamander" but was later given the official name "Volksjäger". It was intended to be flown by anyone, beginners and experts alike. One of the unique design features of the Salamander is the single jet engine mounted on the top of the fuselage. This provided easy access for maintenance and protected the engine from ingesting rocks or other debris on runways. The [[He 162 A-1|A-1]] was armed with dual [[MK 108 (30 mm)|MK 108]] cannons, but excessive vibrations when firing forced the A-2 variant to utilize the 20 mm [[MG 151 (20 mm)|MG 151]] cannon found in many German aircraft. Although the Salamander had unfavourable landing and stall characteristics, it was quite a comfortable aircraft to fly, and pilots noted it was stable in flight.
−
{{break}}
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. This jet fighter has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.29.
 
  
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. It is one of the earliest jet fighters in-game and regularly faces propeller-driven aircraft. Like many jet fighters, the He 162 has an excellent top speed of 840 km/h (522 mph) and an even better structural speed limit of 1,040 km/h (646 mph). It can easily outrun and catch up to enemy propeller-driven fighters. However, the engine only outputs around 910 kgf of thrust, which means it takes a very long time to accelerate up to suitable speeds. Players should try not to dogfight enemy aircraft and instead make repeated passes on slower targets. Fortunately, the He 162 is quite manoeuvrable so it can compete with propeller-driven fighters in a pinch. 
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
−
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
−
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, manoeuvrability, speed 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.'' -->
 +
[[File:Cockpit He162.jpg|x150px|right|thumb|none|Cockpit of the He 162]]
  
−
[[File:Cockpit He162.jpg|x150px|right|thumb|none|Cockpit of the He 162]]
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,000 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 6,000 m)
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|-
 
|-
 
! Stock
 
! Stock
−
| 800 || 775 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 31.4 || 32.3 || 19.1 || 18.1 || rowspan="2" | 750
+
| 801 || 776 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 31.4 || 32.3 || 19.1 || 18.1 || rowspan="2" | 750
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
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|}
 
|}
  
−
====Details====
+
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="6" | Features
 
! colspan="6" | Features
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|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| 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|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 700 || 700 || 500 || ~12 || ~7
+
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 677 || 648 || 500 || ~12 || ~7
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
−
! colspan="2" | Empty mass || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
+
! colspan="2" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="2" | BMW 003 || 1
+
| colspan="2" | BMW 003 || 1
−
| colspan="2" | 1,877 kg || colspan="2" | 205 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
+
| colspan="2" | 1,990 kg || colspan="2" | 212 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
−
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br />Weight
+
! colspan="3" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
−
! 7m fuel || 20m fuel || 23m fuel
+
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 26m fuel
 
|-
 
|-
 
| 673 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
 
| 673 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
−
| 2,044 kg || 2,313 kg || 2,375 kg || 2,495 kg
+
| 2,132 kg || 2,342 kg || 2,465 kg || 2,495 kg
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 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="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="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (108%)
 
! colspan="4" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (108%)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Condition || 100% || 108%
 
! Condition || 100% || 108%
−
! 7m fuel || 20m fuel || 23m fuel || MTOW
+
! 8m fuel || 20m fuel || 26m fuel || MTOW
 
|-
 
|-
 
| ''Stationary'' || 801 kgf || 910 kgf
 
| ''Stationary'' || 801 kgf || 910 kgf
−
| 0.46 || 0.39 || 0.38 || 0.36
+
| 0.43 || 0.39 || 0.37 || 0.36
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Optimal'' || 801 kgf<br />(0 km/h) || 910 kgf<br />(0 km/h)
+
| ''Optimal'' || 801 kgf<br>(0 km/h) || 910 kgf<br>(0 km/h)
−
| 0.46 || 0.39 || 0.38 || 0.36
+
| 0.43 || 0.39 || 0.37 || 0.36
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== 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. Describe the armour, if there is any, 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.'' -->
  
 
* 15 mm steel - bulkhead behind cockpit
 
* 15 mm steel - bulkhead behind cockpit
 
* Engine exposed on top of the fuselage
 
* Engine exposed on top of the fuselage
 
* Fuel tanks in fuselage and wings below the engine
 
* Fuel tanks in fuselage and wings below the engine
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
 +
"Offensive 20 mm", "Compressor", "Wings repair", then "Engine", is the recommended order of unlocking. The stock MG 151 belts are bad as they lack the very powerful HE ''Minengeschoß'' rounds. Compressor and Engine are no-brainers. Everything that improves acceleration is a must for early jets. Wings repair is superior to new cannons, the stock MG 151 does not overheat and accuracy is acceptable in short bursts.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
<!--''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.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
−
{{main|MG 151/20 (20 mm)}}
+
<!-- ''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|MG 151 (20 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannon, chin-mounted (120 rpg = 240 total)
+
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, chin-mounted (120 rpg = 240 total)
 +
 
 +
The twin MG 151s are one of the weaker cannons equipped by the early Rank 5 jets. However, when compared to the 30 mm MK 108s found on other German jets, its cannons have acceptable muzzle velocity, though this will remain a problem. The ammo count is less than enough considering the speeds at which jet combat takes place. As for ammunition belts, the air target belt is the best one due to its ample amount of HE rounds in the belt composition.
  
−
The twin MG 151s have the least stopping power out of all the early Tier 5 jets. However, when compared to the 30 mm Mk. 108's found on other German jets, its cannons have acceptable muzzle velocity, though this will remain a problem. The ammo count is less than enough considering the speeds at which jet combat takes place.
 
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
−
This aircraft is best used exclusively for BnZ attacks and fighting at high altitudes (over 5km).  
+
<!-- ''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).'' -->
  
−
It bleeds energy fast in dogfights against early jets, and when matched with propeller planes dogfights become suicide. Head-ons may seem like a good idea due to the plane's small size and powerfull 20mm cannons, but keep in mind that most of the time you will be fighting american or british aircraft, which will destroy you with their multiple sets of 50cal's or hispanos, before you can fit them with your low velocity 20mm with a slow rate of fire.
+
This aircraft is best used exclusively for Boom & Zoom attacks and fighting at high altitudes (over 5 km).
  
−
He 162 is an excellent bomber hunter, especially if you choose to fly with minimum (7min) fuel and go to intercept bombers attacking your team's bases. Your 20mm and small size will make you a deadly opponent, but keep in mind that most propeller bombers at this tier have great defensive armaments. When uptiered with jets you will probably never see a bomber in game.
+
It bleeds energy fast in dogfights against early jets, and when matched with propeller planes, dogfights become suicide. Head-ons may seem like a good idea due to the plane's small size and powerful 20 mm cannons, but keep in mind that most of the time you will be fighting American or British aircraft, which will often one-shot or severely damage you with their multiple sets of .50 cals or Hispanos.
  
−
When attempting to BnZ enemy fighters it is vital that you climb atleast 1km above the enemy, try climbing along the map's corners, as if you go head on youll run into fighters without the energy you need to get away. Avoid sharp turns when diving and pulling up as you lose energy very fast in this aircraft. This becomes even more important when uptiered, as enemy jets at higher BR have no problem catching up to you just long enough to kill you.
+
He 162 is an excellent bomber hunter, especially if you choose to fly with minimum (8 min) fuel and go to intercept bombers attacking your team's bases. Your 20 mm and small size will make you a deadly opponent, but keep in mind that most propeller bombers at this rank have great defensive armaments. When up-tiered with jets you will probably never see a bomber in-game.
  
−
The best place for He 162 is combined battles, where it has relatively low SP requirements and does not face a large group of enemy fighters. In this mode fly with a minimum tank load (7min) as it's all you need and it gives you agility. Just as in air realistic, use BnZ to shoot down enemies ground attacking your team or unsuspecting enemy fighters.
+
When attempting to Boom & Zoom enemy fighters, it is vital that you climb at least 1 km above the enemy. Try climbing along the corners of the map, as if you go head-on you'll run into fighters without the energy you need to get away. Avoid sharp turns when diving and pulling up as you lose energy very fast in this aircraft. This becomes even more important when up-tiered, as enemy jets at higher battle-ratings have no problem catching up to you just long enough to destroy you.
  
−
===Manual Engine Control===
+
The best place for He 162 is combined battles, where it has relatively low SP requirements and does not face a large group of enemy fighters. In this mode fly with a minimum tank load (8 min) as it's all you need and it gives you agility. Just as in air realistic, use Boom & Zoom to shoot down enemies ground attacking your team or unsuspecting enemy fighters.
−
{| 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 || rowspan="2" | Not controllable<br> Automatic || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
===Modules===
 
−
"Offensive 20mm", "Compressor", "Wings repair" then "Engine" in that and no other order! Why? The stock Mg151 belts are bad as they lack the very powerful HE ''Minengeschosse''. Compressor and Engine are no brainers. Everything that improves acceleration is a must for early jets. Wings repair is superior to new cannons, the stock Mg151 does not overheat and accuracy is acceptable in short bursts. 
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 
−
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage Repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings Repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
|
 
−
| Engine Injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== 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 - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "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:'''
  
−
* Top speed in comparison to propeller planes of the same rank
+
* One of the best climbing early jets
−
* Good acceleration for an early jet
+
* Faces almost only propeller-powered aircraft and some early jets
−
* Great bomber hunter
+
* Great manoeuvrability at high speed
−
* Good climb rate for an early jet, climbs even better than American jets of the same rank
+
* Good acceleration for an early jet at speeds below 800 km/h
−
* Excellent dive rate, can catch up even the MiG-9 and F-84B-26 in shallow dive
+
* Excellent shallow dive rate
 
* Hard-hitting armament of two 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons that fires Minengeschoß shells
 
* Hard-hitting armament of two 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons that fires Minengeschoß shells
−
* Does not have WEP, however throttle can push past 100% (up to 108% throttle)
+
* Small wing surface area means difficult target to shoot down
 
* Very good visibility
 
* Very good visibility
−
* Good energy retention
+
* Does not have war emergency power, however, the throttle can push up to 108%
−
* Small wing surface area means difficult target when turning
+
* Relatively good bomber hunter, especially if the opponent lacks defensive armaments
−
* Loses no energy in rudder turns
 
 
* Can use its 108% throttle almost indefinitely above 6,000 m
 
* Can use its 108% throttle almost indefinitely above 6,000 m
 
* Great roll rate
 
* Great roll rate
−
* Affordable repair cost
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Lackluster top speed in comparison to most of early jets which makes it a cannon fodder for them
+
* Above 800 km/h, acceleration in straight line is almost non-existent
−
* Outgunned and out-turned by later jets when up-tiered
+
* Not beginner-friendly
−
* Suitable only for energy fighting, avoid dogfights at all costs
+
* Suitable only for energy fighting, loses all energy in turns
−
* Poor performance when stock
+
* Bad manoeuvrability at low speed
−
* Ammo runs out quickly
+
* Very fragile even for a jet, a little damage can cause significant performance loss
−
* Higher speed acceleration (above 800 kph) is significantly lower
+
* Limited amount of ammunition
−
* Lose whole energy during elevator turns
+
* Limited energy retention due to bad high-speed engine performance and a lightweight airframe
−
* Turn radius which is average isn't making any advantage for this plane towards other jets
+
* Setting throttle above 100% does not bring significant gain of power
−
* Engine prone to take damage
+
* Armour protecting the pilot insufficient to prevent knock-out
−
* Damage of fuselage and wings decreases performance significantly
+
* Difficulty with take-off, struggles on some airfields
−
* 20mm MG 151/20 cannon muzzle velocity could be better
+
* Extended usage of the throttle over 100% burns out the jet engine (deteriorates quality of use until its own destruction)
−
* Extended usage of the throttle over 100% burns up the jet engine (deteriorates quality of use until its own destruction)
 
−
* Difficult take off, struggles on some airfields
 
−
* Good energy retention + high speed + absence of airbrakes = hard landing
 
−
* Low roll stability
 
 
* Engine mounted on top, vertical manoeuvre techniques need to account for the pitching-down moment of the engine thrust
 
* Engine mounted on top, vertical manoeuvre techniques need to account for the pitching-down moment of the engine thrust
 
* Engine easily overheats below 2,000 m
 
* Engine easily overheats below 2,000 m
 +
* Poor performance when stock
  
 
== 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 "/ History" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <ref>, as well as adding them 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).'' -->
−
Initially, this Heinkel fighter was designated He 500, but by October, in order to fool enemy intelligence services, the RLM redesignated the plane He 162; the number being previously assigned to a Messerschmitt fast bomber prototype that competed with the Ju 88. At the same time, the fighter was named the Salamander, which initially was the codename for the very same fast bomber design. The official name at the start of introduction was ''Volksjäger'' to emphasize the usage as ''every man's fighter'' similar to ''Volkswagen'' aka VW.
+
Initially, this Heinkel fighter was designated He 500, but by October, in order to fool enemy intelligence services, the RLM redesignated the plane He 162; the number being previously assigned to a Messerschmitt fast bomber prototype that competed with the Ju 88. At the same time, the fighter was named the Salamander, which initially was the codename for the very same fast bomber design. The official name at the start of introduction was '''Volksjäger''' to emphasize the usage as "every man's fighter" similar to Volkswagen aka VW.
  
−
Overall 170 to 320 aircraft were produced, most of them A-2 variants. The previous A-1 were first fitted with Mk108, but these shocked the airframe too hard and were changed into the less recoil-heavy Mg151/20. An interesting feature is the dorsal mounted engine. It serves two purposes; first: Easier maintenance like with Me 262s underwing gondolas and second - and most importantly: The high installation greatly reduced foreign object damage - or FOD. Unpaved runways were common on all sides in WW2 and rocks and other debris were often sucked into the intake -- the main cause of engine failures in early jets.
+
Overall 170 to 320 aircraft were produced, most of them A-2 variants. The previous A-1 were first fitted with Mk108, but these shocked the airframe too hard and were changed into the less recoil-heavy MG 151/20. An interesting feature is the dorsal mounted engine. It serves two purposes; first: Easier maintenance like with Me 262s underwing gondolas and second - and most importantly: The high installation greatly reduced foreign object damage - or FOD. Unpaved runways were common on all sides in WW2 and rocks and other debris were often sucked into the intake -- the main cause of engine failures in early jets.
  
−
Albeit named the Volksjäger, the jet was a dangerous vehicle for beginners. Short flight time and a high stall speed compared to the gliders most recruits trained on caused a high after-combat crash rate, especially on landing approaches. Pilots often failed to attain the recommended landing speed of 250 kph (100 more than the Bf109) due either inexperience or lack of fuel. The high landing speed was the cause of even more deadly problems.
+
Albeit named the Volksjäger, the jet was a dangerous vehicle for beginners. Short flight time and a high stall speed compared to the gliders most recruits trained on caused a high after-combat crash rate, especially on landing approaches. Pilots often failed to attain the recommended landing speed of 250 km/h (100 more than the Bf 109) due either inexperience or lack of fuel. The high landing speed was the cause of even more deadly problems.
  
 
In the air, however, the aircraft was praised even by its foes. Allied pilots loved to take the captured He 162s into the air, praising its smooth flight and good controllability. The only downside was the weak rudder and weak in the literal meaning. RAF pilot, Flt Lt. R. A. Marks, despite being instructed not to use heavy rudder on high speed, performed a low-altitude, high-speed barrel roll during a demonstration. A fin and rudder assembly ripped out of its socket, the sudden loss of control and insufficient height resulted in a fatal crash.
 
In the air, however, the aircraft was praised even by its foes. Allied pilots loved to take the captured He 162s into the air, praising its smooth flight and good controllability. The only downside was the weak rudder and weak in the literal meaning. RAF pilot, Flt Lt. R. A. Marks, despite being instructed not to use heavy rudder on high speed, performed a low-altitude, high-speed barrel roll during a demonstration. A fin and rudder assembly ripped out of its socket, the sudden loss of control and insufficient height resulted in a fatal crash.
  
−
Like the Me 262 Schwalbe, the Volksjäger proved to be too little too late.
+
Like the Me 262 Schwalbe, the Volksjäger proved to be too little too late.
  
−
=== In-game description ===
+
{{break}}
−
Initially, this Heinkel fighter was designated He 500, but by October, in order to fool enemy intelligence services, the RLM redesignated the plane He 162; the number being previously assigned to a Messerschmitt fast bomber prototype that competed with the Ju 88. At the same time, the fighter was named the Salamander, which initially was the codename for the entire program.
+
{{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}}
 +
Initially this Heinkel fighter was designated He 500, but by October, in order to fool enemy intelligence services, the RLM redesignated the plane He 162; the number being previously assigned to a Messerschmitt fast bomber prototype that competed with the Ju 88. At the same time, the fighter was named the Salamander, which initially was the codename for the entire program.
 +
{{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=he-162a-2 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|Jxg17aav2ZM|'''The Shooting Range #366''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 00:25 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|riDifkZU46w|'''The Most Dreadful Plane I've Flown - He 162 A-2''' - ''DEFYN'' (Review starts at 1:35)|L31N5vEwV0U|'''Realistic: He 162 A-2 [Totally Unforgiving]''' - ''Jengar''|JkMBRzBRQsg|'''Subscribers Choice: He-162 A-2 - Realistic Battle''' - ''MagzTV''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
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<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
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* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
  
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* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
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;Related development
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* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
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* [[He 162 A-1]]
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;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
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* [[Me 163 B]]{{-}}[[Me 163 B-0]]
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* [[BI]]
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* [[Ki-200]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* ''other literature.''-->
  
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* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/320879-heinkel-he-162-a-2/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
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* ''encyclopedia page on aircraft;''
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* [[wikipedia:Heinkel_He_162|[Wikipedia] Heinkel He 162]]
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* ''other literature.''
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* [http://www.airvectors.net/avhe162.html <nowiki>[Air Vectors]</nowiki> The Heinkel He 162 Volksjaeger]
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Heinkel}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Heinkel}}
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{{Germany jet aircrafts}}
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{{Germany jet aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 17:00, 21 October 2023

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the German jet fighter He 162 A-2. For the other version, see He 162 A-1.
He 162 A-2
he-162a-2.png
GarageImage He 162 A-2.jpg
ArtImage He 162 A-2.png
He 162 A-2
Germany flag.png Germany
V Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
6.3 6.0 6.7
Class:
Research:95 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:270 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

Initially designated the He 500, the He 162 was a very unique jet fighter. The He 162 was aptly nicknamed "Salamander" but was later given the official name "Volksjäger". It was intended to be flown by anyone, beginners and experts alike. One of the unique design features of the Salamander is the single jet engine mounted on the top of the fuselage. This provided easy access for maintenance and protected the engine from ingesting rocks or other debris on runways. The A-1 was armed with dual MK 108 cannons, but excessive vibrations when firing forced the A-2 variant to utilize the 20 mm MG 151 cannon found in many German aircraft. Although the Salamander had unfavourable landing and stall characteristics, it was quite a comfortable aircraft to fly, and pilots noted it was stable in flight.

The He 162 A-2 has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. It is one of the earliest jet fighters in-game and regularly faces propeller-driven aircraft. Like many jet fighters, the He 162 has an excellent top speed of 840 km/h (522 mph) and an even better structural speed limit of 1,040 km/h (646 mph). It can easily outrun and catch up to enemy propeller-driven fighters. However, the engine only outputs around 910 kgf of thrust, which means it takes a very long time to accelerate up to suitable speeds. Players should try not to dogfight enemy aircraft and instead make repeated passes on slower targets. Fortunately, the He 162 is quite manoeuvrable so it can compete with propeller-driven fighters in a pinch. 

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 6 000 m840 km/h
Turn time30 s
Max altitude12 000 m
EngineBMW 003
TypeJet
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight3 t
Cockpit of the He 162
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 6,000 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 801 776 12000 31.4 32.3 19.1 18.1 750
Upgraded 875 840 28.8 30.0 28.2 23.4

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
✓ ✓ ✓ X X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1040 350 677 648 500 ~12 ~7
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 500 < 500 < 580 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
BMW 003 1 1,990 kg 212 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 8m fuel 20m fuel 26m fuel
673 kg Axial-flow turbojet 2,132 kg 2,342 kg 2,465 kg 2,495 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (108%)
Condition 100% 108% 8m fuel 20m fuel 26m fuel MTOW
Stationary 801 kgf 910 kgf 0.43 0.39 0.37 0.36
Optimal 801 kgf
(0 km/h) 		910 kgf
(0 km/h) 		0.43 0.39 0.37 0.36

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural1 040 km/h
Gear350 km/h
  • 15 mm steel - bulkhead behind cockpit
  • Engine exposed on top of the fuselage
  • Fuel tanks in fuselage and wings below the engine

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 917 → 4 939 Sl icon.png
RB8 645 → 10 901 Sl icon.png
SB14 082 → 17 757 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications80 000 Rp icon.png
130 000 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
130 / 250 / 600 % Sl icon.png
190 / 190 / 190 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
8 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
9 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
16 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
9 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
15 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
13 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
21 000 Sl icon.png
400 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
mg15120_belt_pack
Research:
8 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
mg15120_new_gun
Research:
10 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
16 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png

"Offensive 20 mm", "Compressor", "Wings repair", then "Engine", is the recommended order of unlocking. The stock MG 151 belts are bad as they lack the very powerful HE Minengeschoß rounds. Compressor and Engine are no-brainers. Everything that improves acceleration is a must for early jets. Wings repair is superior to new cannons, the stock MG 151 does not overheat and accuracy is acceptable in short bursts.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 12 x 20 mm MG 151 cannon
Ammunition240 rounds
Fire rate700 shots/min
Main article: MG 151 (20 mm)

The He 162 A-2 is armed with:

  • 2 x 20 mm MG 151 cannons, chin-mounted (120 rpg = 240 total)

The twin MG 151s are one of the weaker cannons equipped by the early Rank 5 jets. However, when compared to the 30 mm MK 108s found on other German jets, its cannons have acceptable muzzle velocity, though this will remain a problem. The ammo count is less than enough considering the speeds at which jet combat takes place. As for ammunition belts, the air target belt is the best one due to its ample amount of HE rounds in the belt composition.

Usage in battles

This aircraft is best used exclusively for Boom & Zoom attacks and fighting at high altitudes (over 5 km).

It bleeds energy fast in dogfights against early jets, and when matched with propeller planes, dogfights become suicide. Head-ons may seem like a good idea due to the plane's small size and powerful 20 mm cannons, but keep in mind that most of the time you will be fighting American or British aircraft, which will often one-shot or severely damage you with their multiple sets of .50 cals or Hispanos.

He 162 is an excellent bomber hunter, especially if you choose to fly with minimum (8 min) fuel and go to intercept bombers attacking your team's bases. Your 20 mm and small size will make you a deadly opponent, but keep in mind that most propeller bombers at this rank have great defensive armaments. When up-tiered with jets you will probably never see a bomber in-game.

When attempting to Boom & Zoom enemy fighters, it is vital that you climb at least 1 km above the enemy. Try climbing along the corners of the map, as if you go head-on you'll run into fighters without the energy you need to get away. Avoid sharp turns when diving and pulling up as you lose energy very fast in this aircraft. This becomes even more important when up-tiered, as enemy jets at higher battle-ratings have no problem catching up to you just long enough to destroy you.

The best place for He 162 is combined battles, where it has relatively low SP requirements and does not face a large group of enemy fighters. In this mode fly with a minimum tank load (8 min) as it's all you need and it gives you agility. Just as in air realistic, use Boom & Zoom to shoot down enemies ground attacking your team or unsuspecting enemy fighters.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • One of the best climbing early jets
  • Faces almost only propeller-powered aircraft and some early jets
  • Great manoeuvrability at high speed
  • Good acceleration for an early jet at speeds below 800 km/h
  • Excellent shallow dive rate
  • Hard-hitting armament of two 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons that fires Minengeschoß shells
  • Small wing surface area means difficult target to shoot down
  • Very good visibility
  • Does not have war emergency power, however, the throttle can push up to 108%
  • Relatively good bomber hunter, especially if the opponent lacks defensive armaments
  • Can use its 108% throttle almost indefinitely above 6,000 m
  • Great roll rate

Cons:

  • Above 800 km/h, acceleration in straight line is almost non-existent
  • Not beginner-friendly
  • Suitable only for energy fighting, loses all energy in turns
  • Bad manoeuvrability at low speed
  • Very fragile even for a jet, a little damage can cause significant performance loss
  • Limited amount of ammunition
  • Limited energy retention due to bad high-speed engine performance and a lightweight airframe
  • Setting throttle above 100% does not bring significant gain of power
  • Armour protecting the pilot insufficient to prevent knock-out
  • Difficulty with take-off, struggles on some airfields
  • Extended usage of the throttle over 100% burns out the jet engine (deteriorates quality of use until its own destruction)
  • Engine mounted on top, vertical manoeuvre techniques need to account for the pitching-down moment of the engine thrust
  • Engine easily overheats below 2,000 m
  • Poor performance when stock

History

Initially, this Heinkel fighter was designated He 500, but by October, in order to fool enemy intelligence services, the RLM redesignated the plane He 162; the number being previously assigned to a Messerschmitt fast bomber prototype that competed with the Ju 88. At the same time, the fighter was named the Salamander, which initially was the codename for the very same fast bomber design. The official name at the start of introduction was Volksjäger to emphasize the usage as "every man's fighter" similar to Volkswagen aka VW.

Overall 170 to 320 aircraft were produced, most of them A-2 variants. The previous A-1 were first fitted with Mk108, but these shocked the airframe too hard and were changed into the less recoil-heavy MG 151/20. An interesting feature is the dorsal mounted engine. It serves two purposes; first: Easier maintenance like with Me 262s underwing gondolas and second - and most importantly: The high installation greatly reduced foreign object damage - or FOD. Unpaved runways were common on all sides in WW2 and rocks and other debris were often sucked into the intake -- the main cause of engine failures in early jets.

Albeit named the Volksjäger, the jet was a dangerous vehicle for beginners. Short flight time and a high stall speed compared to the gliders most recruits trained on caused a high after-combat crash rate, especially on landing approaches. Pilots often failed to attain the recommended landing speed of 250 km/h (100 more than the Bf 109) due either inexperience or lack of fuel. The high landing speed was the cause of even more deadly problems.

In the air, however, the aircraft was praised even by its foes. Allied pilots loved to take the captured He 162s into the air, praising its smooth flight and good controllability. The only downside was the weak rudder and weak in the literal meaning. RAF pilot, Flt Lt. R. A. Marks, despite being instructed not to use heavy rudder on high speed, performed a low-altitude, high-speed barrel roll during a demonstration. A fin and rudder assembly ripped out of its socket, the sudden loss of control and insufficient height resulted in a fatal crash.

Like the Me 262 Schwalbe, the Volksjäger proved to be too little too late.


Archive of the in-game description

Initially this Heinkel fighter was designated He 500, but by October, in order to fool enemy intelligence services, the RLM redesignated the plane He 162; the number being previously assigned to a Messerschmitt fast bomber prototype that competed with the Ju 88. At the same time, the fighter was named the Salamander, which initially was the codename for the entire program.


Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #366 - Metal Beasts section at 00:25 discusses the He 162 A-2.
The Most Dreadful Plane I've Flown - He 162 A-2 - DEFYN (Review starts at 1:35)
Realistic: He 162 A-2 [Totally Unforgiving] - Jengar
Subscribers Choice: He-162 A-2 - Realistic Battle - MagzTV

See also

Related development
Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links


Heinkel Aircraft Company (Heinkel Flugzeugwerke)
Fighters  He 51 A-1 · He 51 B-1 · He 51 B-2/H · He 51 C-1 · He 51 C-1/L
  He 100 D-1
  He 112 A-0 · He 112 B-0 · He 112 V-5
Jet fighters  He 162 A-1 · He 162 A-2
Twin-engine fighters  He 219 A-7
Bombers  He 111 H-3 · He 111 H-6 · He 111 H-16
  He 115 C-1
  He 177 A-5
Export  He 112 B-1/U2(Hungary) · He 112 B-1/U2(Romania) · He 112 B-2/U2 · A7He1
  T 2

Germany jet aircraft
Germany flag.png  Luftwaffe
He 162  He 162 A-1 · He 162 A-2
Me 163  Me 163 B · Me 163 B-0
Ho 229  Ho 229 V3
Ar 234  Ar 234 B-2 · Ar 234 C-3
Me 262  Me 262 A-1a · Me 262 A-1a/Jabo · Me 262 A-1a/U1 · Me 262 A-1/U4 · Me 262 A-2a
  Me 262 C-1a · Me 262 C-2b
GDR flag.png  LSK
Fighters  ◊MiG-15bis · ◊Lim-5P · ◊MiG-19S
  ◊MiG-21MF · ◊MiG-21bis-SAU · ◊MiG-21 "Lazur-M"
  ◊MiG-29
Attackers  ◊MiG-23BN · ◊MiG-23MF · ◊MiG-23MLA
  ◊Su-22UM3K · ◊Su-22M4
  ◊IL-28
FRG flag.png  Luftwaffe
F-84  ◄F-84F
F-86  ◄CL-13A Mk 5 · ◄CL-13B Mk.6 · ◄F-86K
F-104  ◄F-104G
F-4  ◄F-4F Early · ◄F-4F · ◄F-4F KWS LV
G.91  ◄G.91 R/3 · ◄G.91 R/4
Tornado  ◄Tornado IDS WTD61 · ◄Tornado IDS MFG · ◄Tornado IDS ASSTA1
Other  Alpha Jet A · ◄Sea Hawk Mk.100
Ex-LSK  ◄MiG-21 SPS-K · ◄MiG-29G
Switzerland flag.png  Swiss Air Force
  ◌Hunter F.58 · FFA P-16

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