Difference between revisions of "AM-1"

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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=am_1_mauler
 
|code=am_1_mauler
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 
|cockpit=cockpit_am_1_mauler.jpg
 
|cockpit=cockpit_am_1_mauler.jpg
 
}}
 
}}
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
+
The '''Martin AM Mauler''' was a single-engine carrier-based attack aircraft built for the United States Navy. First ordered during World War II in 1944, it was designed to carry as much payload as possible while being capable of operating on an aircraft carrier. After delays due to engine cooling and stability problems, the Mauler entered service in 1948 on board carrier air groups. Because of its impressive payload of up to 4.5 tons, the Mauler was initially nicknamed "Able Mable", however this was superseded by the more derogatory "Awful Monster" by its crews. It suffered problems stemming from excessive torque that resulted in the plane being very sluggish to handle, very hard to land on an carrier (one aircraft even broke its tail during landing due to it being unable to handle its own weight) and its hydraulic fluid that would leak very often, thus making it a maintenance nightmare. In the end, the Mauler was what the USN wanted, but not what they needed, and it would be retired just 5 years later, being replaced by the more capable and reliable [[AD Skyraider (Family)|AD Skyraider]].
−
{{Break}}
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American attacker {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"]].
 
  
−
The {{PAGENAME}} is a classic American attack aircraft. As typical, it is heavy and cumbersome yet hard-hitting and versatile due to the weapons it can carry. Don't expect to effectively dogfight in the Mauler as the main purpose of this aircraft is to strike and eliminate the enemy's ground units. The {{PAGENAME}} has the option to outfit HVARS and Tiny Tims rockets and bombs of all sizes depending on the targets to be hit. Enemy fighters should be avoided as they will typically be faster, more manoeuvrable and better equipped for air-to-air combat at which the {{PAGENAME}} is at a significant disadvantage, however, when pressed into air combat some Mauler pilots end up working miracles and survive the encounter.
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"]], the {{PAGENAME}} is a classic American attack aircraft. As typical, it is heavy and cumbersome, yet hard-hitting and versatile, due to the weapons it can carry. Don't expect to effectively dogfight in the Mauler as the main purpose of this aircraft is to strike and eliminate the enemy's ground units. The {{PAGENAME}} has the option to outfit HVARS and Tiny Tims rockets and bombs of all sizes depending on the targets to be hit. Enemy fighters should be avoided as they will typically be faster, more manoeuvrable and better equipped for air-to-air combat at which the Mauler is at a significant disadvantage; however, when pressed into air combat, some Mauler pilots may end up working miracles and survive the encounter should they time their turn to face the enemy well enough.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
−
The {{PAGENAME}} is a rather cumbersome and heavy aircraft. For pilots new to the aircraft, they will notice even without a payload, the aircraft feels sluggish and can be even more frustrating early on while the aircraft is still in its stock phase. At low speeds, this aircraft is an easy target to prey on. Despite the circumstances, it is decently manoeuvrable for a single-seated attack aircraft allowing for the targeting of ground targets, however, care must be taken when it is necessary to manoeuvre as this aircraft bleeds energy very quickly.
+
The {{PAGENAME}} is a rather cumbersome and heavy aircraft. For pilots new to the aircraft, they will notice even without a payload, the aircraft feels sluggish and can be even more frustrating early on while the aircraft is still in its stock phase. With powerful Pratt & Whitney R-4360 "Twin Cyclone" engine, the Mauler can accelerate fairly quickly, especially in a dive with payloads. As such, it comes with an airbrakes to help slow down the plane and prevent it from being lawndarted into the ground.
 +
 
 +
At low speeds, this aircraft is an easy target to prey on, especially with heavy payload. Despite the circumstances, it is decently manoeuvrable for a single-seated attack aircraft, especially at high speed, allowing for the targeting of ground targets or even catch the enemy fighter off-guard, however, care must be taken when it is necessary to manoeuvre as this aircraft bleeds energy very quickly.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|-
 
|-
 
! Upgraded
 
! Upgraded
−
| ___ || 589 || __._ || 22.0 || __._ || 14.2
+
|617|| 589 ||21.1|| 22.0 ||18.4|| 14.2
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
−
| < 450 || < 220 || < 410 || > 440
+
| < 450 || < 220 || < 500 || > 440
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 4,099 m || 2,600 hp || N/A
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 4,250 m || 1,800 hp || 2,782 hp
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
  
−
The pilot is protected in the front by 40 mm of bulletproof glass and in the back by 9.5 mm of steel. There are also two 9.5 mm steel plates under the engine and cooling system.
+
The pilot is protected in the front by 40 mm of bulletproof glass and in the back by 9.5 mm of steel. There are also two 9.5 mm steel plates under the engine and cooling system.
  
−
The aircraft has three self-sealing fuel tanks: one behind the pilot, and one in either wing root. Since the fuel tanks are not particularly large, and since they're all located in one location, fuel fires are unlikely in this vehicle. However, if a fire does occur, the centralized location of the tanks near all of the vehicle's critical components means that the fire is not likely to put itself out.
+
The aircraft has three self-sealing fuel tanks: one behind the pilot, and one in either wing root. Since the fuel tanks are not particularly large, and since they're all located in one location, fuel fires are unlikely in this vehicle. However, if a fire does occur, the centralized location of the tanks near all of the vehicle's critical components means that the fire is not likely to put itself out.
 +
 
 +
=== 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|T31 (20 mm)}}
 
{{main|T31 (20 mm)}}
Line 110: Line 96:
  
 
=== 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-M66A2 (2,000 lb)}}
 
−
{{main|HVAR|Tiny Tim|Mk.13/44 (569 mm)}}
 
  
 
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 !! width="3%" | 14 !! width="3%" | 15
 +
| rowspan="11" 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 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[AN-M64A1 (500 lb)|500 lb AN-M64A1]] bombs
 +
| || || || || || || 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 || 1 || 1 || || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[HVAR]] rockets
 +
| 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
 +
|-
 +
! [[Tiny Tim]] rockets
 +
| || || || || || || 1 || || 1 || || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[Mk.13-6 Case (2,216 lb)|2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case]] torpedoes
 +
| || || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[Type A Mark I mine|Type A Mark I]] mines
 +
| || || || || || || 1 || 1 || 1 || || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="16" | Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,200 kg
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
  
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
−
* 14 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (3,500 lb total)
+
* 12 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (3,000 lb total)
 
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)
 
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 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 569 mm Mk.13/44 torpedoes
+
* 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)
+
* 3 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (6,000 lb total)
 +
* 3 x 2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case torpedoes
 +
* 3 x Type A Mark I mines
 
* 12 x HVAR rockets
 
* 12 x HVAR rockets
 
* 2 x Tiny Tim rockets
 
* 2 x Tiny Tim rockets
−
* 2 x Tiny Tim rockets + 12 x HVAR rockets
+
{{Navigation-End}}
−
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 12 x HVAR rockets (1,500 lb total)
 
−
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb + 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 12 x HVAR rockets (2,000 lb total)
 
−
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb + 2 x Tiny Tim rockets + 12 x HVAR rockets (1,000 lb total)
 
−
* 12 x HVAR rockets + 3 x 569 mm Mk.13/44 torpedoes
 
−
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 12 x HVAR rockets (2,000 lb total)
 
−
* 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (4,000 lb total)
 
−
* 1 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bomb + 2 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (4,500 lb total)
 
−
* 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 12 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (5,000 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).'' -->
  
−
The AM-1 is a classic attacker, and it will come as no surprise that its manoeuvrability is lacking. It's fine at high speeds, but at low speeds, the aircraft quickly becomes sluggish, even when no payload is equipped. The plane also has poor acceleration and poor manoeuvring energy retention, all of which means that this plane struggles in a dogfight. If the pilot does find themselves in an engagement against a dedicated fighter aircraft, the best thing to do would be to fly towards a teammate who can help.
+
The AM-1 is a classic attacker, and it will come as no surprise that its manoeuvrability is lacking. It's fine at high speeds, but at low speeds, the aircraft quickly becomes sluggish, even when no payload is equipped. The plane also has poor acceleration and poor manoeuvring energy retention, all of which means that this plane struggles in a dogfight. If the pilot does find themselves in an engagement against a dedicated fighter aircraft, the best thing to do would be to fly towards a teammate who can help.
  
−
Where this plane shines is in a ground-attack role. The cannons, when using ground target belts, can take out lightly armoured targets quite effectively, and the high ammo count is certainly a nice bonus. Additionally, this plane receives an incredible number of ordnance options, from [[HVAR]] and [[Tiny Tim]] rockets to up to 5000 lbs of bombs. In Air Realistic battles these can destroy the most heavily armoured ground targets, and in Ground Realistic these allow the pilot to achieve 7 kills against enemy ground units without landing to reload.
+
Where this plane shines is in a ground-attack role. The cannons, when using ground target belts, can take out lightly armoured targets quite effectively, and the high ammo count is certainly a nice bonus. Additionally, this plane receives an incredible number of ordnance options, from [[HVAR]] and [[Tiny Tim]] rockets to up to 5,000 lbs of bombs. In Air Realistic battles these can destroy the most heavily armoured ground targets, and in Ground Realistic these allow the pilot to achieve 7 kills against enemy ground units without landing to reload.
  
 
This plane also receives three torpedoes for use in naval battles.
 
This plane also receives three torpedoes for use in naval battles.
  
−
All in all, the AM-1 is a below-average fighter with incredible anti-ground capabilities. Although sluggish, it more than makes up for it in pure firepower.
+
All in all, the AM-1 is a below-average fighter with incredible anti-ground capabilities. Although sluggish, it more than makes up for it in pure firepower.
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
Line 158: Line 176:
 
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 
! Oil !! Water !! Type
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Not controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
+
| Not controllable || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
−
! Survivability
 
−
! colspan="3" | Weaponry
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Fuselage repair
 
−
| Radiator
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
| M64
 
−
| FRC mk.2
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
|
 
−
| Compressor
 
−
| Airframe
 
−
| Offensive 20 mm
 
−
| M65
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Wings repair
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
|
 
−
| Mk.13
 
−
| LFRC mk.12
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
|
 
−
| Engine injection
 
−
| Cover
 
−
| New 20 mm cannons
 
−
| M66
 
−
|
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Large and versatile payload
+
* Large and versatile payload, with custom loadout options
 
* Decent 20 mm cannons for head-ons or ground attack purposes
 
* Decent 20 mm cannons for head-ons or ground attack purposes
 +
* Reasonably manoeuvrable at medium-to-high speeds
 
* Airbrakes and arresting hook
 
* Airbrakes and arresting hook
 +
* 3 torpedoes in ship battles can cause serious damage to several large ships
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
 
* No defensive armament
 
* No defensive armament
−
* Sluggish at low speeds
+
* Sluggish at low speeds, especially with heavy payload
 
* Poor acceleration
 
* Poor acceleration
 
* Bleeds energy quickly if manoeuvring
 
* Bleeds energy quickly if manoeuvring
 +
* Engine overheats fairly quickly
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Line 224: Line 204:
 
'''Development'''
 
'''Development'''
  
−
In the 1930's and 1940's the Navy had two designations for carrier-based bombers: dive bombers and torpedo bombers, which each had a crew of 2-3 men. It was found during the war that more than 1 crewman was unnecessary, even in combat situations. In addition, if the two classes of naval bombers were combined into one aircraft, it would allow for a carrier's air group to have more flexibility and to increase the amount of fighters on the carrier. The Navy asked for design proposals for a multi-purpose bomber in 1943, and chose 4 designs to continue. These were the Curtiss XBTC, Douglas XBT2D Skyraider, Kaiser-Fleetwings XBTK, and the Martin XBTM. The Navy asked Martin to create a design using the Pratt and Whitney R-4360 Wasp Major engine as a backup to the Curtiss design, which the Navy feared was overly complex.
+
In the 1930s and 1940s the Navy had two designations for carrier-based bombers: dive bombers and torpedo bombers, which each had a crew of 2-3 men. It was found during the war that more than 1 crewman was unnecessary, even in combat situations. In addition, if the two classes of naval bombers were combined into one aircraft, it would allow for a carrier's air group to have more flexibility and to increase the amount of fighters on the carrier. The Navy asked for design proposals for a multi-purpose bomber in 1943, and chose 4 designs to continue. These were the Curtiss XBTC, Douglas XBT2D Skyraider, Kaiser-Fleetwings XBTK, and the Martin XBTM. The Navy asked Martin to create a design using the Pratt and Whitney R-4360 Wasp Major engine as a backup to the Curtiss design, which the Navy feared was overly complex.
  
 
'''Design'''
 
'''Design'''
  
−
The XBTM-1 was a low-wing monoplane with folding wings for carrier storage, and conventional landing gear. It featured a single-seat cockpit with a teardrop shaped canopy right behind the engine. There was a 150 gallon fuel tank behind the cockpit. There was a dive break that ran the length of the trailing edge of the wing. The wing design was ideal for dive bombing, because of the large surface area, but the ailerons were much less efficient, as they were not wide. The pilot and oil cooler were protected by heavy armor. The primary armament consisted of four 20 mm T-31 cannons in the wings with 200 rounds per gun. Additional armament was suspended on one centerline hardpoint, and two outer hardpoints. These hardpoints could carry bombs, drop tanks, or torpedoes up to 2,300 pounds. The outer hardpoints could also take an AN/APS-4 search radar pod. 6 hardpoints could be added to the outer wings to carry 500 pound bombs or 5 inch rockets. After testing of the first two prototypes, slight modifications were made to the engine cowling, propeller, rudder, and vertical stabilizer. The BTM-1 was redesignated as the AM-1 in 1946.
+
The XBTM-1 was a low-wing monoplane with folding wings for carrier storage, and conventional landing gear. It featured a single-seat cockpit with a teardrop shaped canopy right behind the engine. There was a 150 gallon fuel tank behind the cockpit. There was a dive break that ran the length of the trailing edge of the wing. The wing design was ideal for dive bombing, because of the large surface area, but the ailerons were much less efficient, as they were not wide. The pilot and oil cooler were protected by heavy armour. The primary armament consisted of four 20 mm T-31 cannons in the wings with 200 rounds per gun. Additional armament was suspended on one centreline hardpoint, and two outer hardpoints. These hardpoints could carry bombs, drop tanks, or torpedoes up to 2,300 pounds. The outer hardpoints could also take an AN/APS-4 search radar pod. 6 hardpoints could be added to the outer wings to carry 500 pound bombs or 5 inch rockets. After testing of the first two prototypes, slight modifications were made to the engine cowling, propeller, rudder, and vertical stabilizer. The BTM-1 was redesignated as the AM-1 in 1946.
  
 
'''Production and Service'''
 
'''Production and Service'''
  
−
The Navy ordered 750 BTM-1's in January of 1945, but changed the order to only 99 after the Japanese surrender in August. After the modifications to the design, and the re-designation to AM-1, deliveries began in March of 1947. A number of issues were found, including a badly layed out cockpit, tailhook issues, elevator control, and structural weakness of the fuselage. These issues were solved and mitigated. The Navy ordered 50 more AM-1's, known as the AM-1 Mauler. An electronic countermeasure version was created, known as the AM-1Q. The AM-1Q added an electronics operator in the fuselage, where the fuel tank used to be. The Mauler was found to be a hard to handle aircraft. It did not do well in carrier landings, and was hard to fly in a formation, plus it had maintenance issues. Despite this, it could carry more ordinance than the AD Skyraider, and was more stable when dive bombing.
+
The Navy ordered 750 BTM-1s in January of 1945, but changed the order to only 99 after the Japanese surrender in August. After the modifications to the design, and the re-designation to AM-1, deliveries began in March of 1947. A number of issues were found, including a badly laid out cockpit, tailhook issues, elevator control, and structural weakness of the fuselage. These issues were solved and mitigated. The Navy ordered 50 more AM-1s, known as the AM-1 Mauler. An electronic countermeasure version was created, known as the AM-1Q. The AM-1Q added an electronics operator in the fuselage, where the fuel tank used to be. The Mauler was found to be a hard to handle aircraft. It did not do well in carrier landings, and was hard to fly in a formation, plus it had maintenance issues. Despite this, it could carry more ordnance than the AD Skyraider, and was more stable when dive bombing.
  
−
The AM-1 was given to squadrons in the Atlantic Fleet. It served for a relatively short amount of time, as although the Skyraider could carry less secondary armament, it flew better, landed better, and was more reliable. In 1950, all Mauler's were moved to shore-based squadrons, but they were abandoned in the same year to Naval Reserve squadrons. They were retired from service with the Naval Reserve squadrons in 1953.
+
The AM-1 was given to squadrons in the Atlantic Fleet. It served for a relatively short amount of time, as although the Skyraider could carry less secondary armament, it flew better, landed better, and was more reliable. In 1950, all Maulers were moved to shore-based squadrons, but they were abandoned in the same year to Naval Reserve squadrons. They were retired from service with the Naval Reserve squadrons in 1953.
  
 
== 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=am_1_mauler Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|8JcG-_L0oLo|'''The Shooting Range #313''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 03:20 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.|Ze0dEvB77fE|'''Best Combo #3''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 3:18 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 252: Line 239:
  
 
== 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/453522-am-1/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Martin}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Martin}}
−
{{USA attackers}}
+
{{USA strike aircraft}}

Latest revision as of 09:49, 1 April 2024

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
AM-1
am_1_mauler.png
GarageImage AM-1.jpg
ArtImage AM-1.jpg
360://https://wiki.warthunder.com/images/1/1a/Cockpit_am_1_mauler.jpg
AM-1
USA flag.png USA
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
5.7 5.7 5.3
Class:
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Description

The Martin AM Mauler was a single-engine carrier-based attack aircraft built for the United States Navy. First ordered during World War II in 1944, it was designed to carry as much payload as possible while being capable of operating on an aircraft carrier. After delays due to engine cooling and stability problems, the Mauler entered service in 1948 on board carrier air groups. Because of its impressive payload of up to 4.5 tons, the Mauler was initially nicknamed "Able Mable", however this was superseded by the more derogatory "Awful Monster" by its crews. It suffered problems stemming from excessive torque that resulted in the plane being very sluggish to handle, very hard to land on an carrier (one aircraft even broke its tail during landing due to it being unable to handle its own weight) and its hydraulic fluid that would leak very often, thus making it a maintenance nightmare. In the end, the Mauler was what the USN wanted, but not what they needed, and it would be retired just 5 years later, being replaced by the more capable and reliable AD Skyraider.

Introduced in Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy", the AM-1 is a classic American attack aircraft. As typical, it is heavy and cumbersome, yet hard-hitting and versatile, due to the weapons it can carry. Don't expect to effectively dogfight in the Mauler as the main purpose of this aircraft is to strike and eliminate the enemy's ground units. The AM-1 has the option to outfit HVARS and Tiny Tims rockets and bombs of all sizes depending on the targets to be hit. Enemy fighters should be avoided as they will typically be faster, more manoeuvrable and better equipped for air-to-air combat at which the Mauler is at a significant disadvantage; however, when pressed into air combat, some Mauler pilots may end up working miracles and survive the encounter should they time their turn to face the enemy well enough.

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 3 500 m589 km/h
Turn time22 s
Max altitude9 600 m
EnginePratt & Whitney R-4360-4W
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight11 t

The AM-1 is a rather cumbersome and heavy aircraft. For pilots new to the aircraft, they will notice even without a payload, the aircraft feels sluggish and can be even more frustrating early on while the aircraft is still in its stock phase. With powerful Pratt & Whitney R-4360 "Twin Cyclone" engine, the Mauler can accelerate fairly quickly, especially in a dive with payloads. As such, it comes with an airbrakes to help slow down the plane and prevent it from being lawndarted into the ground.

At low speeds, this aircraft is an easy target to prey on, especially with heavy payload. Despite the circumstances, it is decently manoeuvrable for a single-seated attack aircraft, especially at high speed, allowing for the targeting of ground targets or even catch the enemy fighter off-guard, however, care must be taken when it is necessary to manoeuvre as this aircraft bleeds energy very quickly.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 3,500 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 566 547 9600 23.0 23.8 10.9 10.9 170
Upgraded 617 589 21.1 22.0 18.4 14.2

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
0 700 420 350 300 ~12 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 450 < 220 < 500 > 440

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear700 km/h

The pilot is protected in the front by 40 mm of bulletproof glass and in the back by 9.5 mm of steel. There are also two 9.5 mm steel plates under the engine and cooling system.

The aircraft has three self-sealing fuel tanks: one behind the pilot, and one in either wing root. Since the fuel tanks are not particularly large, and since they're all located in one location, fuel fires are unlikely in this vehicle. However, if a fire does occur, the centralized location of the tanks near all of the vehicle's critical components means that the fire is not likely to put itself out.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB2 970 → 3 730 Sl icon.png
RB4 631 → 5 816 Sl icon.png
SB9 375 → 11 775 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications61 600 Rp icon.png
102 500 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 800 Ge icon.png
Crew training61 000 Sl icon.png
Experts210 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 200 Ge icon.png
Research Aces570 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
110 / 190 / 600 % Sl icon.png
178 / 178 / 178 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
3 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 300 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
3 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 300 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 600 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 600 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
M64
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
FRC mk.2
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
250 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
anm2_belt_pack
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
M65
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
LFRC mk.12
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
220 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
AN-Mk 1
Research:
3 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 300 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon torpedo.png
Mk.13
Research:
3 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 300 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
anm2_new_gun
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 600 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
M66
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 600 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png
Mods air naval mine.png
Mk 13 Mod 0
Research:
4 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 600 Sl icon.png
320 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: T31 (20 mm)

The AM-1 is armed with:

  • 4 x 20 mm T31 cannons, wing-mounted (200 rpg = 800 total)

Suspended armament

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

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
Hardpoints AM-1.png
250 lb AN-M57 bombs 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs 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 1 1
HVAR rockets 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1
Tiny Tim rockets 1 1
2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case torpedoes 1 1 1
Type A Mark I mines 1 1 1
Maximum permissible weight imbalance: 1,200 kg
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 12 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (3,000 lb total)
  • 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 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)
  • 3 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bombs (6,000 lb total)
  • 3 x 2,216 lb Mk.13-6 Case torpedoes
  • 3 x Type A Mark I mines
  • 12 x HVAR rockets
  • 2 x Tiny Tim rockets

Usage in battles

The AM-1 is a classic attacker, and it will come as no surprise that its manoeuvrability is lacking. It's fine at high speeds, but at low speeds, the aircraft quickly becomes sluggish, even when no payload is equipped. The plane also has poor acceleration and poor manoeuvring energy retention, all of which means that this plane struggles in a dogfight. If the pilot does find themselves in an engagement against a dedicated fighter aircraft, the best thing to do would be to fly towards a teammate who can help.

Where this plane shines is in a ground-attack role. The cannons, when using ground target belts, can take out lightly armoured targets quite effectively, and the high ammo count is certainly a nice bonus. Additionally, this plane receives an incredible number of ordnance options, from HVAR and Tiny Tim rockets to up to 5,000 lbs of bombs. In Air Realistic battles these can destroy the most heavily armoured ground targets, and in Ground Realistic these allow the pilot to achieve 7 kills against enemy ground units without landing to reload.

This plane also receives three torpedoes for use in naval battles.

All in all, the AM-1 is a below-average fighter with incredible anti-ground capabilities. Although sluggish, it more than makes up for it in pure firepower.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Large and versatile payload, with custom loadout options
  • Decent 20 mm cannons for head-ons or ground attack purposes
  • Reasonably manoeuvrable at medium-to-high speeds
  • Airbrakes and arresting hook
  • 3 torpedoes in ship battles can cause serious damage to several large ships

Cons:

  • No defensive armament
  • Sluggish at low speeds, especially with heavy payload
  • Poor acceleration
  • Bleeds energy quickly if manoeuvring
  • Engine overheats fairly quickly

History

Development

In the 1930s and 1940s the Navy had two designations for carrier-based bombers: dive bombers and torpedo bombers, which each had a crew of 2-3 men. It was found during the war that more than 1 crewman was unnecessary, even in combat situations. In addition, if the two classes of naval bombers were combined into one aircraft, it would allow for a carrier's air group to have more flexibility and to increase the amount of fighters on the carrier. The Navy asked for design proposals for a multi-purpose bomber in 1943, and chose 4 designs to continue. These were the Curtiss XBTC, Douglas XBT2D Skyraider, Kaiser-Fleetwings XBTK, and the Martin XBTM. The Navy asked Martin to create a design using the Pratt and Whitney R-4360 Wasp Major engine as a backup to the Curtiss design, which the Navy feared was overly complex.

Design

The XBTM-1 was a low-wing monoplane with folding wings for carrier storage, and conventional landing gear. It featured a single-seat cockpit with a teardrop shaped canopy right behind the engine. There was a 150 gallon fuel tank behind the cockpit. There was a dive break that ran the length of the trailing edge of the wing. The wing design was ideal for dive bombing, because of the large surface area, but the ailerons were much less efficient, as they were not wide. The pilot and oil cooler were protected by heavy armour. The primary armament consisted of four 20 mm T-31 cannons in the wings with 200 rounds per gun. Additional armament was suspended on one centreline hardpoint, and two outer hardpoints. These hardpoints could carry bombs, drop tanks, or torpedoes up to 2,300 pounds. The outer hardpoints could also take an AN/APS-4 search radar pod. 6 hardpoints could be added to the outer wings to carry 500 pound bombs or 5 inch rockets. After testing of the first two prototypes, slight modifications were made to the engine cowling, propeller, rudder, and vertical stabilizer. The BTM-1 was redesignated as the AM-1 in 1946.

Production and Service

The Navy ordered 750 BTM-1s in January of 1945, but changed the order to only 99 after the Japanese surrender in August. After the modifications to the design, and the re-designation to AM-1, deliveries began in March of 1947. A number of issues were found, including a badly laid out cockpit, tailhook issues, elevator control, and structural weakness of the fuselage. These issues were solved and mitigated. The Navy ordered 50 more AM-1s, known as the AM-1 Mauler. An electronic countermeasure version was created, known as the AM-1Q. The AM-1Q added an electronics operator in the fuselage, where the fuel tank used to be. The Mauler was found to be a hard to handle aircraft. It did not do well in carrier landings, and was hard to fly in a formation, plus it had maintenance issues. Despite this, it could carry more ordnance than the AD Skyraider, and was more stable when dive bombing.

The AM-1 was given to squadrons in the Atlantic Fleet. It served for a relatively short amount of time, as although the Skyraider could carry less secondary armament, it flew better, landed better, and was more reliable. In 1950, all Maulers were moved to shore-based squadrons, but they were abandoned in the same year to Naval Reserve squadrons. They were retired from service with the Naval Reserve squadrons in 1953.

Media

Skins
Videos
The Shooting Range #313 - Pages of History section at 03:20 discusses the AM-1.
Best Combo #3 discusses the AM-1 at 3:18 - War Thunder Official Channel

See also

Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links


Glenn L. Martin Company
Attackers  AM-1
Bombers  B-10B · B-26B · PBM-1 · PBM-3 · PBM-5A
Jet bombers  B-57A* · B-57B*
Export  Martin 139WC · Martin 167-A3 · B-26C
  * These aircraft were license-built from The English Electric Company Limited who developed and built the British English Electric Canberra.

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

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