Difference between revisions of "Kugelblitz"

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{{Specs-Card|code=germ_flakpanzer_IV_Kugelblitz}}
+
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=germ_flakpanzer_IV_Kugelblitz
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
−
<!--''In the description, the first part should be about the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle 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 the creation and combat usage of the vehicle, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the ground vehicle 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 '''Flakpanzer IV "Kugelblitz"''' is the third variant of the [[Flakpanzer IV (Disambiguation)|Flakpanzer IV self-propelled anti-aircraft gun family]]. The Panzer IV medium tank chassis is combined with a newly designed oscillating turret to provide complete protection for the crews. This turret was completely enclosed, with overhead protection and full traverse. The disruption caused by Allied bombing efforts prevented mass production from taking place.
−
{{break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German Self-Propelled Anti-Aircraft (SPAA) vehicle {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.43]].
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.43]], the Flakpanzer IV "Kugelblitz" is an extremely competitive vehicle. Its twin-mounted 30 mm Maschinenkanone 103/38 provides high destructive power against enemy air and ground targets. The main armament is fast-firing and precise, requiring only one or two shells to bring down even a bomber. Players can also equip armour-piercing ammunition belts to target enemy ground units. This machine can quickly destroy a column of enemy targets with well-executed flanking manoeuvres.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat?''
+
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
 +
[[File:Kugel-xray.png|thumb|The X-Ray view of the Kugelblitz in the hangar, the 5 crew members locations inside the vehicle are visible, giving a visual understanding of the vehicle's survivability.]]
 +
The Kugelblitz has high armour values compared to most SPAA, but the armour will not protect it against the main calibre guns of tanks at the battle rating. The survivability is quite good, the crew is well spaced and numerous, and the ammunition is unlikely to detonate. The Kugelblitz has excellent protection against strafing runs from enemy aircraft, although some aircraft cannons may penetrate the 10 mm hull armour and cause an engine fire.
 +
 
 +
Since the ball turret is enclosed and separated from the hull, the Kugelblitz can still operate its cannons after a successful penetration of the hull.
 +
 
 +
'''Armour type:'''
  
−
''If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''
+
* Rolled homogeneous armour
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
|-
 +
! Armour !! Front (Slope angle) !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 +
|-
 +
| Hull || 80 mm || 30 mm || 20 mm || 10 mm
 +
|-
 +
| Turret || 30 mm ''Turret housing'' <br> 20 mm ''Turret ball'' || 30 mm ''Turret housing'' <br> 20 mm ''Turret ball'' || 30 mm ''Turret housing'' <br> 20 mm ''Turret ball'' || 20 mm
 +
|}
 +
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
 +
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 426|rbMinHp= 265|<!--AoAweight=(optional) -->}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=426|rbMinHp=265}}
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
−
The reverse speed is not a strong suit with a mere -7km/h (AB & RB).
+
The Kugelblitz has a comparatively low gun traverse speed when not upgraded, so the Horizontal Drive and Elevation Mechanism modules are quite important. Another very useful modification is the M.Gr. ammo belt, which almost completely composed of high-explosive shells and helps to increase damage dealt to enemy aircraft. The two Pz.Gr. modules allow the vehicle to better engage enemy ground forces. These belts contain more high-penetration rounds than high-explosive ones, and increase the vehicle's effectiveness against armoured targets. Still, they will not be able to penetrate most tanks frontally at this tier, and are better suited for engaging lightly-armoured vehicles.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
−
''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''
+
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
−
 
+
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
−
==== Ammunition ====
+
{{main|MK103/38 (30 mm)}}
−
 
 
−
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|AP-I|Armor-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}
 
−
* '''M.Gr.:''' {{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I|Armor-piercing incendiary}}
 
−
* '''Pz.Gr.:''' {{Annotation|AP-I|Armor-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I|Armor-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I|Armor-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}
 
−
* '''Pz.Gr. H:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armor-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}
 
  
−
{| class="wikitable sortable"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
−
! colspan="7" |Penetration statistics
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" |Ammunition
+
! colspan="6" | [[MK103/38 (30 mm)|30 mm MK103/38]] (x2) || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
−
! colspan="6" |'''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
!10 m
+
! Mode !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
−
!100 m
+
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
−
!500 m
+
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
−
!1,000 m
 
−
!1,500 m
 
−
!2,000 m
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Default
+
! ''Arcade''
−
|58
+
| rowspan="2" | 1,200 (100) || rowspan="2" | 450 || rowspan="2" | -7°/+80° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | N/A || 52.8 || 73.1 || 88.8 || 98.2 || 104.5 || rowspan="2" | 13.00 || rowspan="2" | 11.50 || rowspan="2" | 10.60 || rowspan="2" | 10.00
−
|55
 
−
|47
 
−
|38
 
−
|30
 
−
|24
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|M.Gr.
+
! ''Realistic''
−
|58
+
| 35.7 || 42.0 || 51.0 || 56.4 || 60.0
−
|55
 
−
|47
 
−
|38
 
−
|30
 
−
|24
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|Pz.Gr.
 
−
|58
 
−
|55
 
−
|47
 
−
|38
 
−
|30
 
−
|24
 
−
|-
 
−
|Pz.Gr. H
 
−
|95
 
−
|93
 
−
|85
 
−
|60
 
−
|45
 
−
|30
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
=== Additional armament ===
+
==== Ammunition ====
−
''Some tanks are armed with several guns in one or more turrets. Evaluate the additional weaponry and give advice on its use. Describe the ammunition available for additional weaponry. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage. If there is no additional weaponry remove this subsection.''
 
  
−
=== Machine guns ===
+
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}
−
''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.''
+
* '''M.Gr.:''' {{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}
 +
* '''Pz.Gr.:''' {{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-I|Armour-piercing incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}
 +
* '''Pz.Gr. H:''' {{Annotation|HVAP-T|High-velocity armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer (minengeschoß)}}
  
−
== Usage in battles ==
+
{{:MK103/38 (30 mm)/Ammunition|HEI-T, AP-I, HVAP-T}}
−
''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the 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. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''
+
 
−
=== Modules ===
+
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
{| class="wikitable"
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
! Tier
+
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
−
! Protection
 
−
! colspan="2" | Firepower
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| I
+
! Full<br>ammo
−
| Tracks
+
! 1st<br>rack empty
−
|
+
! 2nd<br>rack empty
−
| Parts
+
! Visual<br>discrepancy
−
| M.Gr.
 
−
| Horizontal Drive
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| II
+
| '''12''' || 6&nbsp;''(+6)'' || 0&nbsp;''(+12)'' || No
−
| Suspension
 
−
| Brake System
 
−
| FPE
 
−
| Pz.Gr.
 
−
| Adjustment of Fire
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Filters
 
−
|
 
−
| Crew Replenishment
 
−
|
 
−
| Elevation Mechanism
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| Transmission
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Pz.Gr. H
 
−
| Artillery Support
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Note''':
  
−
The Kugelblitz has a comparatively low gun traverse speed when not upgraded, so the Horizontal Drive and Elevation Mechanism modules are quite important. Another very useful modification is the M.Gr. ammo belt, which almost completely composed of high-explosive shells and helps to increase damage dealt to enemy aircraft. The two Pz.Gr. modules allow the vehicle to better engage enemy ground forces. These belts contain more high-penetration rounds than high-explosive ones, and increase the vehicle's effectiveness against armoured targets. Still, they will not be able to penetrate most tanks frontally at this tier, and are better suited for engaging lightly-armoured vehicles.
+
* Ammunition is modeled as 12 magazines of 100 rounds.
 +
 
 +
== Usage in battles ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the 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. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 +
 
 +
'''Overview:'''
 +
 
 +
The Kugelblitz is a dedicated AA, however the guns do have decent penetration and the Kugelblitz has some armour and survivability, so targeting enemy ground vehicles is a possibility. However, air targets should still be the main focus of the Kugelblitz. Due to the survivability and firepower, the Kugelblitz is best placed near the frontlines in case it needs to support a teammate against an enemy ground vehicle, but it should not be directly in view of enemy tanks.
 +
 
 +
'''Tips:'''
 +
 
 +
The Kugelblitz is best used as a second or third spawn, because aircraft will not spawn at the beginning of the match. Do not engage aircraft too early, as you will only expose yourself. Begin firing at no more than 1-1.5 km range for the best effect. Always watch out for multiple aircraft, as one may hit you with bombs or rockets while you are distracted. The fast firing 30 mm guns are extremely potent, and will quickly dispatch most air targets after a few hits, even against heavy fighters and bombers. It is a good idea to learn the weak spots of enemy ground vehicles you will commonly face near the Kugelblitz's BR, as knowing these will allow the Kugelblitz to deal maximum damage.
  
 
=== 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 a 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 can be substituted with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".-->
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a 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:'''
  
−
* High rate of fire for a 30mm cannon
+
* High rate of fire for a 30 mm cannon
 
* Fast turret rotation speed
 
* Fast turret rotation speed
−
* Very good at taking out other SPAA or lightly armoured vehicles
+
* Very good at taking out other SPAA or lightly-armoured vehicles
 
* Average movement speed
 
* Average movement speed
−
* Access to many unlockable ammo belts
+
* Is closed-top unlike other open-top SPAAs, protecting it from lots of strafing that could otherwise be fatal
 +
* HVAP round can penetrate 77 mm, improving efficacy against other tanks
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Although having thick armour for a SPAA, its still not enough to stop any kind of tank shell at its rank
+
* Although having thick armour for an SPAA, it's still only a Panzer IV hull and not enough to stop any kind of tank shell at its rank, or fire from .50 cal HMGs
 
* Long reload time
 
* Long reload time
 +
* HVAP belt is 2/3 HE rounds, reducing effectiveness
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. This section may also include the vehicle's devblog entry (if applicable) and the ingame encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== Encyclopedia Info ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
  
−
=== In-game description ===
+
===Design===
−
A continuation of the line of German AA vehicles based on the Pz.IV tank. It was the first AA vehicle to have a fully enclosed turret. Only two were ever built, and they may not have been used in combat. Both of the AA vehicles that were released ended up in the anti-air artillery training battalion stationed at the Ordurf training ground in Thuringia.
+
The genesis of the Kugelblitz can be traced back to a precursor project involving a spherical Flak turret. Initially conceived to bolster the anti-aircraft defenses of German submarines, the turret boasted twin 30 mm cannons and was developed in early 1944 by Alkett, a firm renowned for its contributions to self-propelled anti-aircraft (SPAA) vehicle construction. Despite its promising design, the spherical Flak turret never found favor with the German Navy. Engineers at Alkett recognized the potential of the turret's oblate form and weapon configuration, opting to repurpose it for a new SPAA endeavor. The groundwork for the Kugelblitz was laid, with development commencing in late 1944. A Panzer IV chassis was selected as the platform for integrating the turret. However, a pivotal modification involved fitting a Tiger I turret ring onto the Panzer IV to accommodate the larger spherical turret. This adaptation underscored the approach of the engineers involved. Despite progress in development, including the construction of five prototypes, the Kugelblitz never underwent formal testing. Plans for mass production were also thwarted by the relentless Allied bombing campaigns targeting German factories during the latter stages of the war (1944-1945).
 +
 
 +
===Development===
 +
The development of the Kugelblitz relies on a previous project, a spherical Flak turret, designed to provide German submarines with adequate anti-aircraft defence capability. The oblate turret featured twin 30 mm cannons and was originally developed in early 1944 by the firm Alkett also responsible for the construction of SPAA vehicles. The turret was however never adopted by the German navy. This led the engineers of the firm to reuse the same type of design it for the needs of the new SPAA project.
 +
Development started of the Kugelblitz in late 1944. The chassis chosen to integrate the turret remained a Panzer IV. The main difference was that a Tiger I turret ring was fitted on the Pz.IV to accommodate the large turret. Five prototypes were built but never tested. Mass production was even planned but never happened due to the intense Allied bombings of German factories from 1944 to 1945.
 +
 
 +
===Combat usage===
 +
The Kugelblitz was never approved for service, as its development was not yet completed when the war ended in Europe. Several prototypes briefly saw combat during the Battle of Berlin or in engagements throughout Germany.
 +
 
 +
{{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}}
 +
A continuation of the line of German AA vehicles based on the Pz.IV tank. It was the first AA vehicle to have a fully enclosed turret. Only two were ever built, and they may not have been used in combat. Both of the AA vehicles that were released ended up in the anti-air artillery training battalion stationed at the Ohrdruf training ground in Thuringia.
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_flakpanzer_IV_Kugelblitz Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|naeDoEwZ5Pg|'''German SPAAs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 4:32 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|PosWOnOGkSo|'''Best experimental vehicles''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 7:28 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|HGEXluz5nFA|'''A Successful Dead End? - Kugelblitz''' - ''Military History Visualized''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 +
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 +
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Vehicles equipped with the same chassis
 +
 
 +
* [[Flakpanzer IV]]
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
+
;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[Flakpanzer 341]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 +
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 +
* ''other literature.'' -->
  
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
+
* [[wt:en/devblog/current/639|[Devblog] Flakpanzerkampfwagen IV "Kugelblitz"]]
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
+
* [[wikipedia:Kugelblitz|[Wikipedia] Kugelblitz]]
−
* ''other literature.''
+
* [https://tanks-encyclopedia.com/ww2-germany-leichte-flakpanzer-iv-3-cm-kugelblitz/ <nowiki>[Tanks Encyclopedia]</nowiki> Leichte Flakpanzer IV 3 cm "Kugelblitz"]
  
 
{{Germany anti-aircraft vehicles}}
 
{{Germany anti-aircraft vehicles}}

Latest revision as of 01:25, 24 April 2024

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
Kugelblitz
germ_flakpanzer_iv_kugelblitz.png
GarageImage Kugelblitz.jpg
ArtImage Kugelblitz.png
Kugelblitz
Germany flag.png Germany
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
7.3 7.0 7.0
Class:
Research:71 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:210 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Flakpanzer IV "Kugelblitz" is the third variant of the Flakpanzer IV self-propelled anti-aircraft gun family. The Panzer IV medium tank chassis is combined with a newly designed oscillating turret to provide complete protection for the crews. This turret was completely enclosed, with overhead protection and full traverse. The disruption caused by Allied bombing efforts prevented mass production from taking place.

Introduced in Update 1.43, the Flakpanzer IV "Kugelblitz" is an extremely competitive vehicle. Its twin-mounted 30 mm Maschinenkanone 103/38 provides high destructive power against enemy air and ground targets. The main armament is fast-firing and precise, requiring only one or two shells to bring down even a bomber. Players can also equip armour-piercing ammunition belts to target enemy ground units. This machine can quickly destroy a column of enemy targets with well-executed flanking manoeuvres.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull80 / 30 / 20
Turret50 / 30 / 30
Crew5 people
Visibility83 %
The X-Ray view of the Kugelblitz in the hangar, the 5 crew members locations inside the vehicle are visible, giving a visual understanding of the vehicle's survivability.

The Kugelblitz has high armour values compared to most SPAA, but the armour will not protect it against the main calibre guns of tanks at the battle rating. The survivability is quite good, the crew is well spaced and numerous, and the ammunition is unlikely to detonate. The Kugelblitz has excellent protection against strafing runs from enemy aircraft, although some aircraft cannons may penetrate the 10 mm hull armour and cause an engine fire.

Since the ball turret is enclosed and separated from the hull, the Kugelblitz can still operate its cannons after a successful penetration of the hull.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull 80 mm 30 mm 20 mm 10 mm
Turret 30 mm Turret housing
20 mm Turret ball 		30 mm Turret housing
20 mm Turret ball 		30 mm Turret housing
20 mm Turret ball 		20 mm

Notes:

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB43 / 8 km/h
RB and SB39 / 8 km/h
Number of gears6 forward
1 back
Weight25.0 t
Engine power
AB572 hp
RB and SB300 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB22.9 hp/t
RB and SB12.0 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 43 8 25 426 572 17.04 22.88
Realistic 39 8 265 300 10.6 12

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 519 → 4 528 Sl icon.png
RB3 348 → 4 308 Sl icon.png
SB5 066 → 6 519 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications61 700 Rp icon.png
103 000 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 800 Ge icon.png
Crew training61 000 Sl icon.png
Experts210 000 Sl icon.png
Aces890 Ge icon.png
Research Aces570 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
140 / 170 / 240 % Sl icon.png
178 / 178 / 178 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
145 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
145 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
5 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 500 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 300 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 300 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
145 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ger.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
5 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 500 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
30mm_mk_103_38_HE_ammo_pack
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
3 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 200 Sl icon.png
160 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
30mm_mk_103_38_AP_ammo_pack
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
145 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
2 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
4 700 Sl icon.png
145 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
5 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 500 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
30mm_mk_103_38_APCR_ammo_pack
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 300 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
5 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 300 Sl icon.png
260 Ge icon.png

The Kugelblitz has a comparatively low gun traverse speed when not upgraded, so the Horizontal Drive and Elevation Mechanism modules are quite important. Another very useful modification is the M.Gr. ammo belt, which almost completely composed of high-explosive shells and helps to increase damage dealt to enemy aircraft. The two Pz.Gr. modules allow the vehicle to better engage enemy ground forces. These belts contain more high-penetration rounds than high-explosive ones, and increase the vehicle's effectiveness against armoured targets. Still, they will not be able to penetrate most tanks frontally at this tier, and are better suited for engaging lightly-armoured vehicles.

Armaments

Main armament

2 x 30 mm MK103/38 cannon
Ammunition1 200 rounds
Belt capacity100 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
13.0 → 10.0 s
Fire rate450 shots/min
Vertical guidance-7° / 80°
Main article: MK103/38 (30 mm)
30 mm MK103/38 (x2) Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 1,200 (100) 450 -7°/+80° ±180° N/A 52.8 73.1 88.8 98.2 104.5 13.00 11.50 10.60 10.00
Realistic 35.7 42.0 51.0 56.4 60.0

Ammunition

  • Default: AP-I · HEI-T
  • M.Gr.: HEI-T · HEI-T · HEI-T · AP-I
  • Pz.Gr.: AP-I · AP-I · AP-I · HEI-T
  • Pz.Gr. H: HVAP-T · HEI-T · HEI-T

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
HEI-T 7 6 4 4 4 4
AP-I 58 55 44 33 25 19
HVAP-T 77 74 61 47 37 29
Shell details
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
HEI-T 920 0.33 0.1 0.1 84 79° 80° 81°
AP-I 800 0.5 - - - 47° 56° 65°
HVAP-T 960 0.36 - - - 66° 70° 72°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Kugelblitz
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
12 6 (+6) 0 (+12) No

Note:

  • Ammunition is modeled as 12 magazines of 100 rounds.

Usage in battles

Overview:

The Kugelblitz is a dedicated AA, however the guns do have decent penetration and the Kugelblitz has some armour and survivability, so targeting enemy ground vehicles is a possibility. However, air targets should still be the main focus of the Kugelblitz. Due to the survivability and firepower, the Kugelblitz is best placed near the frontlines in case it needs to support a teammate against an enemy ground vehicle, but it should not be directly in view of enemy tanks.

Tips:

The Kugelblitz is best used as a second or third spawn, because aircraft will not spawn at the beginning of the match. Do not engage aircraft too early, as you will only expose yourself. Begin firing at no more than 1-1.5 km range for the best effect. Always watch out for multiple aircraft, as one may hit you with bombs or rockets while you are distracted. The fast firing 30 mm guns are extremely potent, and will quickly dispatch most air targets after a few hits, even against heavy fighters and bombers. It is a good idea to learn the weak spots of enemy ground vehicles you will commonly face near the Kugelblitz's BR, as knowing these will allow the Kugelblitz to deal maximum damage.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • High rate of fire for a 30 mm cannon
  • Fast turret rotation speed
  • Very good at taking out other SPAA or lightly-armoured vehicles
  • Average movement speed
  • Is closed-top unlike other open-top SPAAs, protecting it from lots of strafing that could otherwise be fatal
  • HVAP round can penetrate 77 mm, improving efficacy against other tanks

Cons:

  • Although having thick armour for an SPAA, it's still only a Panzer IV hull and not enough to stop any kind of tank shell at its rank, or fire from .50 cal HMGs
  • Long reload time
  • HVAP belt is 2/3 HE rounds, reducing effectiveness

History

Design

The genesis of the Kugelblitz can be traced back to a precursor project involving a spherical Flak turret. Initially conceived to bolster the anti-aircraft defenses of German submarines, the turret boasted twin 30 mm cannons and was developed in early 1944 by Alkett, a firm renowned for its contributions to self-propelled anti-aircraft (SPAA) vehicle construction. Despite its promising design, the spherical Flak turret never found favor with the German Navy. Engineers at Alkett recognized the potential of the turret's oblate form and weapon configuration, opting to repurpose it for a new SPAA endeavor. The groundwork for the Kugelblitz was laid, with development commencing in late 1944. A Panzer IV chassis was selected as the platform for integrating the turret. However, a pivotal modification involved fitting a Tiger I turret ring onto the Panzer IV to accommodate the larger spherical turret. This adaptation underscored the approach of the engineers involved. Despite progress in development, including the construction of five prototypes, the Kugelblitz never underwent formal testing. Plans for mass production were also thwarted by the relentless Allied bombing campaigns targeting German factories during the latter stages of the war (1944-1945).

Development

The development of the Kugelblitz relies on a previous project, a spherical Flak turret, designed to provide German submarines with adequate anti-aircraft defence capability. The oblate turret featured twin 30 mm cannons and was originally developed in early 1944 by the firm Alkett also responsible for the construction of SPAA vehicles. The turret was however never adopted by the German navy. This led the engineers of the firm to reuse the same type of design it for the needs of the new SPAA project. Development started of the Kugelblitz in late 1944. The chassis chosen to integrate the turret remained a Panzer IV. The main difference was that a Tiger I turret ring was fitted on the Pz.IV to accommodate the large turret. Five prototypes were built but never tested. Mass production was even planned but never happened due to the intense Allied bombings of German factories from 1944 to 1945.

Combat usage

The Kugelblitz was never approved for service, as its development was not yet completed when the war ended in Europe. Several prototypes briefly saw combat during the Battle of Berlin or in engagements throughout Germany.


Archive of the in-game description

A continuation of the line of German AA vehicles based on the Pz.IV tank. It was the first AA vehicle to have a fully enclosed turret. Only two were ever built, and they may not have been used in combat. Both of the AA vehicles that were released ended up in the anti-air artillery training battalion stationed at the Ohrdruf training ground in Thuringia.


Media

Skins
Videos
German SPAAs discusses the Kugelblitz at 4:32 - War Thunder Official Channel
Best experimental vehicles discusses the Kugelblitz at 7:28 - War Thunder Official Channel
A Successful Dead End? - Kugelblitz - Military History Visualized

See also

Vehicles equipped with the same chassis
Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links


Germany anti-aircraft vehicles
Wheeled  Sd.Kfz.222
Half-track  Sd.Kfz.251/21 · Sd.Kfz. 6/2
Flakpanzer IV  Wirbelwind · Ostwind · Ostwind II · Kugelblitz · Zerstörer 45
Other Flakpanzers  Flakpanzer I · Flakpanzer 38 · Flakpanzer 341
Wiesel AWC  Wiesel 1A4 · Ozelot
Radar SPAAG  Gepard · Gepard 1A2
Missile SPAA  FlaRakPz 1 · FlaRakRad

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