Difference between revisions of "T-55A"

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{{Specs-Card|code=ussr_t_55a}}
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{{About
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| about = Soviet medium tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other versions
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| link = T-54/55 (Family)
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}}
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{{Specs-Card
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|code=ussr_t_55a
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
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}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
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<!--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.-->
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
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[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|none]]
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The '''T-55A''' is the second variant of the [[T-54/55 (Family)|T-55 main battle tank family]]. It was manufactured from 1963 to 1981 and, in comparison to the previous variant, has a new anti-radiation lining as well as a full PAZ/FVU chemical filtration system. The use of plasticized lead sheeting for antiradiation protection was one of the most significant internal changes. To accommodate the new material, the driver's hatch was enlarged, as were the combings over the commander's and loader's hatches. The previous hull machine gun mount was removed to allow for six additional 100 mm main armament rounds. Since 1970, all T-55A variants have had a new modification that allows the 12.7mm DShK heavy machine gun to be mounted on the roof of the turret.
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{{Break}}
 
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The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Russian medium tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica"]].
 
  
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After active development of nuclear weapons, the predecessor of T-55 ([[T-54 (1951)|T-54]]) was tested against nuclear charges. It was evaluated that the crew could survive only at distances of over 700m, so it was decided to create a new tank that would have a nuclear, biological and chemical (NBC) protection system, or ''Protivoatomnaya Zashchita'' (PAZ). The initial designs for this tank were completed in 1956, however, that was without additional NBC protection. In 1961, the development of an NBC system began, and it was introduced in the new T-55A variant. Among other upgrades, the T-55 had an increased ammunition supply with 18 more rounds being stored in the fuel tanks.
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Introduced in [[Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica"]], the T-55A has a similar armour layout, comparable to that of the late variants of the T-54 main battle tanks. Due to the more powerful engine, the mobility is slightly improved, allowing for a higher top speed despite the minor weight increase. However, it now has access to armour-piercing fin-stabilised discarding sabot (APFSDS) ammunition, which can penetrate 335 mm of armour at point-blank range. Given the high velocity of this ammunition, players can engage enemies more easily over long distances. Finally, it has a newly developed two-plane fully automatic stabilization system for its main armament, which allows for quick response and accurate firing while moving.
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T-55 became a replacement for Soviet heavy tanks (IS series and the [[T-10M|T-10]]), something that is evident in War Thunder as well. Armour was sacrificed for better mobility and a better gun. Currently, the T-55A is one of the only vehicles at rank VI to have an APHE shell, which easily one-shots most vehicles from the sides and some from the front (notably, leopards). Unfortunately, the T-55A is relatively slow compared to other medium tanks around battle rating 8.3.
 
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
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<!--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?
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{{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:T-55A XRay Side.png|thumb|left|X-Ray view of the T-55A when viewed from the side. Note how packed the tank interior is of critical components, ammunition, and crew.]]
 +
 
 +
The T-55A has moderate frontal protection, with 100 mm plates for upper front plate (UFP) and lower front plate (LFP) placed at angles 59° and 56° respectively; effective thickness frontally comes up to ~180 mm and ~200 mm, respectively. At a perfect angle, the {{PAGENAME}} can bring its frontal effective thickness to ~200 mm and ~220 mm for the UFP and LFP, while having ~250 mm of protection at the angled sides. However, the additional 20 mm of armour will rarely save the tank from APFSDS, or even APDS, shells that are flying around at this rank.
 +
 
 +
As for the turret, the T-55A has slightly less protection than the T-62 and combined with a generally larger turret, it is easier for opponents to hit and penetrate the turret. The thinnest spots are right next to the cannon breech, at 200 mm, which rather slowly becomes over 300 mm when moving further away from the breech.
  
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If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.-->
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The {{PAGENAME}}'s weakest area to be attacked at is the port side; or when looking directly at the {{PAGENAME}}, its right side. This is because three of the four crew members are neatly lined up into a row. A well placed APFSDS shot to this area through the UFP will one-shot the T-55A.
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[[File:T-55A XRay Front.png|thumb|left|X-Ray view of the T-55A, when faced frontally.]]
 
  
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At battle ratings over 8.0, armour becomes almost obsolete. The T-55A has moderate frontal protection, with 100 mm plates for UFP and LFP placed at angles 59° and 56° respectively; effective thickness frontally comes up to ~180 mm and ~200 mm, respectively. At a perfect angle, you can bring the effective thickness to ~200 mm and ~220 mm for UFP and LFP, while having ~250 mm of protection at your angled sides. However, the additional 20 mm of armour will rarely save you from top-rank APFSDS, or even APDS, shells.
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Despite this vulnerability, it will do well for the {{PAGENAME}}'s overall survival if it does not get hit at all during its lifespan on the battlefield. Due to how packed the interior is, any penetrating shot is sure to cripple or outright destroy the tank.
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[[File:T-55A XRay Side.png|thumb|left|X-Ray view of the T-55A when viewed side-on.]]
 
  
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As for the turret, the T-55A has slightly less protection than the T-62 and combined with a generally larger turret, it is generally easier for your opponents to hit and penetrate your turret. The thinnest spots are right next to the cannon breech, at 200 mm, which rather slowly becomes over 300 mm as you move further away from the breech.
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'''Armour type:'''
  
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Your weakest side is the right-hand side when looking ''at'' the T-55A, frontally, because 3 of your 4 crew are located in a row there. A well placed APFSDS shot to the top-right of the UFP will one-shot the T-55A, see diagram on the right.
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* Rolled homogeneous armour (Hull, Turret roof)
 +
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Gun mantlet)
  
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{{Clear|left}}
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{| class="wikitable"
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! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 +
|-
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| Hull || 100 mm (59-77°) ''Front glacis'' <br>100 mm (56-59°) ''Lower glacis'' || 80 mm || 20 mm (61°) ''Upper'' <br>45 mm (16°) ''Middle''<br> 20 mm (71°) ''Lower'' || 30 mm ''General'' <br> 45 mm ''Engine grille''
 +
|-
 +
| Turret || 130-200 mm (14-39°) ''Turret front'' || 100-160 mm (15-73°) || 66-110 mm (4-41°) || 30 mm
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
 +
 
 +
* Suspensions wheels and tracks are 20 mm thick
 +
* Belly armour is 20 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.'' -->
  
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{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 899|rbMinHp= 513}}
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{{tankMobility|abMinHp=899|rbMinHp=513}}
 +
 
 +
The maximum speed that the T-55A can reach is listed as 56 km/h (AB) and 50 km/h (RB/SB). That is ~15 km/h slower than the [[Leopard A1A1]]. However, the amount of firepower that the T-55A brings to the battlefield, coupled together with the ability to withstand shots sometimes, that speed is decent. Backwards, the T-55A can go at up to -7 km/h, which won't let you back out of tricky situations often.
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 +
The T-55A cannot turn in neutral gear, which makes it difficult to manoeuvre in close-quarter encounters, which often occur in urban environments. The acceleration is good, the T-55A can get to 25 km/h from a standstill on flat, rough terrain in a few seconds, and turning is decent on flat ground.
  
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The maximum speed that the {{PAGENAME}} can reach is listed as 56 km/h (AB) and 50 km/h (RB/SB). That is ~15 km/h slower than the [[Leopard A1A1]]. However, the amount of firepower that the {{PAGENAME}} brings to the battlefield, coupled together with the ability to withstand shots sometimes, that speed is decent. Backwards, the {{PAGENAME}} can go at up to -7 km/h, which won't let you back out of tricky situations often.
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=== Modifications and economy ===
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{{Specs-Economy}}
  
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The {{PAGENAME}} cannot turn in neutral gear, which makes it difficult to manoeuvre in close-quarter encounters, which often occur in urban environments. The acceleration is good, the {{PAGENAME}} can get to 25 km/h from a standstill on flat, rough terrain in a few seconds, and turning is decent on flat ground.
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With a default APDS round available, the T-55A is somewhat viable in a downtier to assist going through the modification research. Aside from getting the survivability upgrades in the "Parts" and "FPE" modules, unlocking better ammunition choices should be prioritised in order to access the more potent APFSDS round and the HEAT-FS shell in the "3BM25" and "3BK17M" modules respectively. The "NVD" module should also be researched early in order to survive the possibility of the next ground battle being at night time.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
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<!--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.-->
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{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
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{{main|D-10T2S (100 mm)}}
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
  
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The T-55A houses a 100 mm D-10T2S rifled anti-tank gun, which is equipped with an ejector and two-plane stabilizer arms. In-game, the T-55A has a 10.3 s reload rate, which is similar to its predecessor, the T-62. This rate of fire doesn't allow the T-55A to rush into battle and fend off waves of Leopards or [[M48A1|M48]]s/[[M60]]s, but it is sufficient to defeat one or two opponents in quick succession with good shot placements, granted you shoot first.
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The T-55A houses a 100 mm D-10T2S rifled anti-tank gun, which is equipped with an ejector and two-plane stabilizer arms. In-game, the T-55A has a 10.3 s reload rate, which is similar to its successor, the T-62. This rate of fire doesn't allow the T-55A to rush into battle and fend off waves of Leopards or [[M48 Patton (Family)|M48]]s and [[M60 (Family)|M60]]s, but it is sufficient to defeat one or two opponents in quick succession with good shot placements, granted you shoot first.
  
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The stock round (3BM-8, APDS) allows the T-55A to penetrate [[MBT-70]] and [[KPz-70]] frontally, as well as deal with all other major threats, notably the [[Leopard I|Leopards]] (which you can penetrate anywhere), and [[Chieftain Mk 3|Chieftains]] (LFP, or UFP/LFP with the APFSDS round). One of the major advantages that the T-55A has over the majority of rank VI vehicles is its APCBC shell, which has the potential to one-shot any opponent if it penetrates. It is advised to flank your enemies and when given the opportunity, easily destroy oncoming enemies with this round.
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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−
==== Ammunition ====
 
−
 
 
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{| class="wikitable sortable;" style="text-align:center;" width="100%;"
 
−
! colspan="8" |Penetration Statistics
 
 
|-
 
|-
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! rowspan="2" |Ammunition
+
! colspan="5" | [[D-10T2S (100 mm)|100 mm D-10T2S]] || colspan="5" | Turret rotation speed (°/s) || colspan="4" | Reloading rate (seconds)
−
! rowspan="2" |Type of Warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" |Penetration at 90° (mm)
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
!10m
+
! Mode !! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
−
!100m
+
! Stock !! Upgraded !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
−
!500m
+
! Stock !! Full !! Expert !! Aced
−
!1000m
 
−
!1500m
 
−
!2000m
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 3BM-8 || APDS || 299 || 298 || 291 || 272 || 253 || 249
+
! ''Arcade''
 +
| rowspan="2" | 43 || rowspan="2" | -5°/+18° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 14.3 || 19.8 || 24.0 || 26.5 || 28.2 || rowspan="2" | 9.75 || rowspan="2" | 8.63 || rowspan="2" | 7.95 || rowspan="2" | 7.50
 
|-
 
|-
−
| BR-412D || APCBC || 234 || 232 || 218 || 203 || 188 || 174
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! ''Realistic''
 +
| 8.9 || 10.5 || 12.8 || 14.1 || 15.0
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 3BM25 || APFSDS || 335 || 330 || 307 || 290 || 275 || 260
+
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Ammunition ====
 +
The stock round (3BM-8, APDS) allows the T-55A to penetrate [[MBT-70]] and [[KPz-70]] frontally, as well as deal with all other major threats, notably the [[Leopard I|Leopards]] (which you can penetrate anywhere), and [[Chieftain Mk 3|Chieftains]] (LFP, or UFP/LFP with the APFSDS round). One of the major advantages that the T-55A has over the majority of rank VI vehicles is its APCBC shell, which has the potential to knock out any opponent it penetrates in a single shot. It is advised to flank your enemies and when given the opportunity, easily destroy oncoming enemies with this round.
 +
 
 +
{{:D-10T2S (100 mm)/Ammunition|3BM-8, 3D3, BR-412D, 3BM25, 3BK17M, OF-412}}
 +
 
 +
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 +
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
 +
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.13.0.180''' -->
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 3BK17M || HEATFS || 390 || 390 || 390 || 390 || 390 || 390
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! Full<br>ammo
 +
! 1st<br>rack empty
 +
! 2nd<br>rack empty
 +
! 3rd<br>rack empty
 +
! 4th<br>rack empty
 +
! 5th<br>rack empty
 +
! 6th<br>rack empty
 +
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 +
|-
 +
| '''43''' || 42&nbsp;''(+1)'' || 37&nbsp;''(+6)'' || 33&nbsp;''(+10)'' || 21&nbsp;''(+22)'' || 19&nbsp;''(+24)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+42)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
−
| OF-412 || HE || 20 || 20 || 19 || 19 || 19 || 19
 
 
|}
 
|}
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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'''Notes''':
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! colspan="11" | Shell details
+
 
 +
* Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
 +
* If you pack 19&nbsp;''(+24)'' shells, it will fill only the frontal wet stowage ready rack.
 +
* Rack 6 is a first stage ammo rack. It totals 18 shells and gets filled first when loading up the tank.
 +
** This rack is also emptied early: the depletion order at full capacity is: 6 - 1 - 2 - etc. until 5.
 +
** Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from racks 1-5 into rack 6. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.
 +
 
 +
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
The T-55A has a roof-mounted 12.7 mm DShK machine gun, which allows it to fight low-flying aircraft or helicopters. However, it is not effective against jets. It is recommended to use this machine gun against lightly armoured ground targets and to check whether or not a tank is alive or not, by shooting its tracks (which can also be done with the coaxial machine gun).
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
! colspan="5" | [[DShK (12.7 mm)|12.7 mm DShK]]
−
! rowspan="2" class="unsortable" | Type of <br /> warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Velocity <br /> in m/s
 
−
! rowspan="2" |Projectile<br />Mass in kg
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Fuse delay''
 
−
''in m:''
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Fuse sensitivity''
 
−
''in mm:''
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Explosive Mass in g<br /> (TNT equivalent):''
 
−
! rowspan="2" | ''Normalization At 30° <br> from horizontal:''
 
−
! colspan="3" | ''Ricochet:''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 0%
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
−
! 50%
 
−
! 100%
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 3BM-8 || APDS || 1415 || 4.13 || N/A || N/A || N/A || +1.5° || 75° || 78° || 80°
+
| Pintle || 350 (50) || 600 || -10°/+60° || ±180°
 
|-
 
|-
−
| BR-412D || APCBC || 887 || 15.9 || 1.2 || 19 || 93.94 || +4° || 48° || 63° || 71°
+
|}
−
|-
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
−
| 3BM25 || APFSDS || 1430 || 3.4 || N/A || N/A || N/A || +1.5° || 76° || 77° || 78°
 
−
|-
 
−
| 3BK17M || HEATFS || 1085 || 9.96 || 0.0 || 0.1 || 935 || +0° || 65° || 72° || 75°
 
−
|-  
 
−
| OF-412 || HE || 880 || 15.2 || 0.1 || 0.5 || 1.46 || +0° || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
|}
+
! colspan="5" | [[SGMT (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm SGMT]]
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
! colspan="7" | Smoke characteristic
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Ammunition
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
−
! Velocity <br /> in m/s
 
−
! Projectile<br />Mass in kg
 
−
! ''Screen radius <br /> in m''
 
−
! ''Screen time <br /> in s''
 
−
! ''Screen hold time <br /> in s:''
 
−
! ''Explosive Mass in g<br /> (TNT equivalent):''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| 3D3 || 880 || 15.6 || 20 || 5 || 25 || 272
+
| Coaxial || 3,500 (250) || 600 || - || -
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
−
=== Machine guns ===
 
−
<!--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.-->
 
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{{main|DShK (12.7 mm)}}
 
  
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The T-55A has a roof-mounted 12.7 mm DShK machine gun, which allows it to fight low-flying aircraft or helicopters. However, it is not effective against jets. It is recommended to use this machine gun against lightly armoured ground targets and to check whether or not a tank is alive or not, by shooting its tracks (which can also be done with the coaxial machine gun).
+
== 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).'' -->
 +
The T-55A usage in battle is very similar to the T-54 tanks prior to it. Aside from some minor design differences, the general armour layout of the T-55A is similar to that of the preceding [[T-54 (1951)]]. The mobility is slightly better due to a more powerful engine, enabling a higher hp-to-ton ratio despite the small weight increase. The firepower of the T-55A compared to its predecessor is what makes it stand out, with access to the 3BM25 APFSDS ammunition that can penetrate 335 mm at point-blank range (compared to the T-54 (1951)'s point-blank penetration of 299 mm with the 3BM-8 APDS and 380 mm with the 3BK-5 HEATFS shell). The high-velocity and penetrating APFSDS shell allow the T-55A to more easily reach out and destroy long-range enemies. The option to use the BR-412D APCBC shell is also available to use in order to cause devastating post-penetration damages, especially against the [[Leopard 1 (Family)|Leopard 1]] tanks that the APCBC shell can penetrate frontally. However, the presence of other tanks with enough armour to protect against the APCBC shell mean it is only situationally useful. Other helpful differences the T-55A has over the T-54 (1951) is a faster turret traverse rate and stabilizer, the latter of which is very useful when reacting to enemy targets on the move.
 +
 
 +
The T-55A is suited for a variety of roles and actions when assaulting or defending a point. In these roles, the firepower and mobility is sufficient, but the armour may not stand up against the enemy due to the prevalence of HEATFS and APFSDS ammo at this battle rating. As such, all these tactics should emphasize avoiding being seen and destroyed by the enemy.
 +
 
 +
[[File:T-55A Weakspot.png|thumb|right|A weak spot of the T-55A's is a shot through the upper front plate, which can knock out three of the four crew members easily.]]
 +
 
 +
;Assaulting
 +
 
 +
The T-55A should use its mobility to advance with its allies towards the point. Unless in a downtiered match, try not to take point in the attack to avoid catching a shell right into the upper front plate, which could potentially knock the T-55A out. Avoid hilly terrain (due to the poor gun depression) and close quarter battle in urban terrain as the tank's reload and traverse speed are not sufficient to react to surprise enemy encounters, and the T-55A's rather poor reverse mobility makes retreat difficult, especially in an enclosed area.
 +
 
 +
The open plain is perhaps one of the better terrain to use the T-55A. The APFSDS dart can allow the T-55A to reach out at enemies that attempt to snipe from a distance. The low profile of the T-55A can even make use of the plain's depression and hills as cover and concealment as it moves closer to the enemies for a better shot.
 +
 
 +
The T-55A has enough mobility (when upgraded) to try larger flanking manoeuvres against the enemy on more open-spaced maps. Use the T-55A's profile to conceal its advance with the terrain. Use this to get the jump on enemy when they start receiving APFSDS shots from a direction they didn't expect the T-55A to be. Do note however that the T-55A can also encounter enemy flankers like the Leopards, which are faster and have enough firepower to end a T-55A should there be an unexpected encounter during this manoeuvre.
 +
 
 +
;Defending
  
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== Usage in battles ==
+
The T-55A has a turret traverse that can cover an angle of fire rather quickly, and the APFSDS means it can reach out and hit enemies from a long way before the enemy could get a good visual of the T-55A's position. Establish a zone for the T-55A to cover, preferably one with a choke point that enemies have to funnel through. Coordinate with allies to try and cover all necessary sectors against enemy advances onto a point as while the T-55A can deal with one or so tanks sporadically appearing in its zone, a coordinated attack by the enemy could very quickly overwhelm the T-55A's capacity to defend itself and the point.  
−
<!-- 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). -->
 
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The T-55A has the great option to use an APCBC shell, which can one-shot Leopards frontally, and any well-armoured vehicles side-on. Therefore, this tank should be used as a flanker, large open areas present a great opportunity to scout and take out groups of oncoming enemies. However, make sure to stay near cover and use it after every shot to minimize the chances of getting scouted and penetrated.
 
−
[[File:T-55A Weakspot.png|thumb|right|The weak spot that allows a one-shot. 3 of the 4 crew members can be knocked out if shooting the upper right hand corner of the UFP.]]
 
  
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However, that does not mean that the T-55A cannot engage opponents frontally. Its APFSDS round can penetrate all vehicles at its battle rating, apart from the T-64A/T-72 (if playing mixed battles), the Chieftains (when hull-down) and the Maus (when at distance and angled).
+
;Specific enemies worth noting
  
−
As a rule of thumb, protect your left-hand side when looking from behind the T-55A. You have 3 crew members there that can be taken out with a single well-placed APFSDS shot (upper right corner of the UFP). Also, don't rely on your reverse speed. You can't retreat efficiently, and will likely be destroyed in a close-quarters encounter if you don't engage your opponent first.
+
Although the T-55A can make short work of most enemies with its APFSDS round, some enemy vehicle in an uptier can be quite difficult to handle:
  
−
===Modules===
+
* [[XM-803]]/[[Leopard 1A5]]: These tanks are highly mobile and have a sufficiently large enough gun to take out the T-55A. As such, these are enemies to expect to encounter on the T-55A's flanks or when the T-55A is flanking. Although, their armour configuration are thin enough that an APFSDS round can still take them out, so try and spot these tanks first before they could spot the T-55A
−
{| class="wikitable"
+
* [[Chieftain (Family)|Chieftain]]: The armour configuration on a Chieftain requires more precise aiming than just a general "aim-at-center-mass" attitude. The largest weak point for the Chieftain tanks are their lower front plate, but this could be easily obscured if the Chieftain is acting in a hull-down position. Given their [[Ordnance BL Tk. L11 (120 mm)|120 mm]] guns can reach farther and faster than the T-55A's 100 mm, they can deny a much larger zone from tank travel, making it difficult for the T-55A to approach them when they're defending.
−
!Tier
+
* [[T-64A (1971)|T-64]]: Although this is only encountered in mixed battles, these tanks feature armour array on their hull and turrets that can easily resist the T-55A's gun. Try and take them by surprise with a side shot.
−
! colspan="2" |Mobility
 
−
!Protection
 
−
! colspan="3" |Firepower
 
−
|-
 
−
|I
 
−
|Tracks
 
−
|
 
−
|Parts
 
−
|BR-412D
 
−
|Horizontal Drive
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|II
 
−
|Suspension
 
−
|Brake System
 
−
|FPE
 
−
|3BM25
 
−
|Adjustment of Fire
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|III
 
−
|Filters
 
−
|
 
−
|Crew Replenishment
 
−
|3BK17M
 
−
|Elevation Mechanism
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
|IV
 
−
|Transmission
 
−
|Engine
 
−
|ESS
 
−
|Artillery Support
 
−
|3D3
 
−
|NVD
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!-- Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in 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". -->
+
<!-- ''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:'''
  
 
* Good mobility
 
* Good mobility
−
* Good gun and a wide ammo choices (APDS, APFSDS, APHE, HEATFS and smoke)
+
* Good gun with a wide ammo choices (APDS, APFSDS, APCBC, HEATFS and smoke)
−
* Roof-mounted machinegun for anti-air defense
+
* Roof-mounted machine gun for anti-air defence
−
* Has a spall liner in the turret, lacking in the T-62, affords some protection from spalling
+
* Comes with a stabiliser, unlike its older series the T-54
−
* Safe ammo spot for 18 rounds near the driver in the fuel tanks give it some kinetic and chemical protection
+
* Armour provide full protection to autocannons frontally, the relatively thick side armour of 80mm can protect from many autocannons side on.
−
* Comes with a stabiliser unlike its older series the T-54
+
* Engine smoke system can aid survivability
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Can easily be destroyed if penetrated through the turret, direct hits three of the four total crew members
+
* Cramped crew layout makes the vehicle easy to knock out in one shot
−
* Stock performance is quite lackluster
+
* Ready rack placed in fuel tanks provides a deadly weakspot
−
* Paultry 100 mm front plate
+
* Stock performance is quite lacklustre
−
* Abysmally weak sides on the hull (80 mm) and worse at the back of the turret (66 mm)
+
* No rangefinder
 +
* Engine smoke system can only be used to help retreat and can be negated by vehicles with thermals
 +
* The armour doesn't hold up against sabot or HEAT ammunition
  
 
== 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 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></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game 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).'' -->
 +
The T-55A is a variant of the extremely-popular T-55 main battle tank produced by the USSR after the Second World War. Along with the earlier T-54 main battle tanks, the T-54/T-55 MBT family is the most-produced tank series in history. The T-55 MBT design featured numerous improvements over the prior T-54s, including additional NBC (Nuclear, Biological & Chemical) protection systems, a new heavier turret, more ammunition, and improved equipment. The T-55A was a late modification of the earlier T-55 MBT, including improved NBC systems.
 +
 
 +
The T-54/T-55 family of main battle tanks were among the first main battle tanks to be introduced. The tanks were designed as a follow-up to the T-34 and T-44 medium tanks. Notably, the new T-54/T-55 tanks were fitted with a 100 mm rifled gun that was capable of penetrating the most heavily-armoured western tanks of the time but had a faster reload compared to the 122 mm guns used on the IS-series of heavy tanks.
 +
 
 +
The T-55 was designed as an evolutionary development of the T-54 MBT and included numerous changes compared to the previous tank model. Notably, the T-55 received NBC protection equipment designed to protect against tactical nuclear weapons. The T-55A further improved on the T-55's NBC protection system by introducing a full chemical weapon filtration system along with an anti-radiation lining inside the tank. These improvements greatly increased the crew's survivability against nuclear or chemical warfare. Compared to the T-54, the T-55 had its total shell capacity increased from 34 to 45; the T-55A was able to carry six more shells, through the removal of the hull machine gun.
 +
 
 +
The T-55A began production in 1963 and continued until 1977; numerous improvements were developed, including the T-55AM, a modified version of the T-55A featuring composite armour. The T-55 family served extensively with countries of the Warsaw Pact and was exported to many other countries. The T-55 family was retired from the Russian army in 2012 with remaining vehicles sold off to other countries; variants of the tank remain in service with numerous countries.
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
{{Youtube-gallery|k15BSV4Xx9w|'''The Shooting Range #46''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 03:32 discusses the T-55A.|3zJsVor0TRA|'''T-55A versus M60A1 RISE (P)''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ussr_t_55a Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|B6ZsuPjSuNo|'''T-54/T-55 family''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:39 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|pvIlsWO9aqk|'''T-55A - The Russian Cannon Fodder''' - ''JustinPlaysYT''|PlF7IJ4Z1rA|'''T-55A - Awesome Gunfood''' - ''Napalmratte''|3zJsVor0TRA|'''T-55A versus M60A1 RISE (P)''' - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|k15BSV4Xx9w|'''The Shooting Range #46''' - ''Metal Beasts'' section at 05:06 discusses the {{PAGENAME}}.}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
  
−
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
+
;Other vehicles of similar configuration and role
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
 
 +
* [[T-62 (Family)]]
  
 
== 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/news/4706-development-t-55a-the-eastern-menace-en|[Devblog] T-55A - The Eastern Menace]]
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
 
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 
{{USSR medium tanks}}
 
{{USSR medium tanks}}

Latest revision as of 09:53, 19 November 2023

Rank VI | Premium | Golden Eagles
Chinese A-5C Pack
This page is about the Soviet medium tank T-55A. For other versions, see T-54/55 (Family).
T-55A
ussr_t_55a.png
GarageImage T-55A.jpg
ArtImage T-55A.png
T-55A
USSR flag.png USSR
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
8.3 8.3 8.3
Class:
Research:135 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:380 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The T-55A is the second variant of the T-55 main battle tank family. It was manufactured from 1963 to 1981 and, in comparison to the previous variant, has a new anti-radiation lining as well as a full PAZ/FVU chemical filtration system. The use of plasticized lead sheeting for antiradiation protection was one of the most significant internal changes. To accommodate the new material, the driver's hatch was enlarged, as were the combings over the commander's and loader's hatches. The previous hull machine gun mount was removed to allow for six additional 100 mm main armament rounds. Since 1970, all T-55A variants have had a new modification that allows the 12.7mm DShK heavy machine gun to be mounted on the roof of the turret.

Introduced in Update 1.69 "Regia Aeronautica", the T-55A has a similar armour layout, comparable to that of the late variants of the T-54 main battle tanks. Due to the more powerful engine, the mobility is slightly improved, allowing for a higher top speed despite the minor weight increase. However, it now has access to armour-piercing fin-stabilised discarding sabot (APFSDS) ammunition, which can penetrate 335 mm of armour at point-blank range. Given the high velocity of this ammunition, players can engage enemies more easily over long distances. Finally, it has a newly developed two-plane fully automatic stabilization system for its main armament, which allows for quick response and accurate firing while moving.

General info

Survivability and armour

ESS
Creation of a smoke screen in the direction of movement of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull100 / 80 / 45
Turret200 / 160 / 66
Crew4 people
Visibility83 %
X-Ray view of the T-55A when viewed from the side. Note how packed the tank interior is of critical components, ammunition, and crew.

The T-55A has moderate frontal protection, with 100 mm plates for upper front plate (UFP) and lower front plate (LFP) placed at angles 59° and 56° respectively; effective thickness frontally comes up to ~180 mm and ~200 mm, respectively. At a perfect angle, the T-55A can bring its frontal effective thickness to ~200 mm and ~220 mm for the UFP and LFP, while having ~250 mm of protection at the angled sides. However, the additional 20 mm of armour will rarely save the tank from APFSDS, or even APDS, shells that are flying around at this rank.

As for the turret, the T-55A has slightly less protection than the T-62 and combined with a generally larger turret, it is easier for opponents to hit and penetrate the turret. The thinnest spots are right next to the cannon breech, at 200 mm, which rather slowly becomes over 300 mm when moving further away from the breech.

The T-55A's weakest area to be attacked at is the port side; or when looking directly at the T-55A, its right side. This is because three of the four crew members are neatly lined up into a row. A well placed APFSDS shot to this area through the UFP will one-shot the T-55A.

Despite this vulnerability, it will do well for the T-55A's overall survival if it does not get hit at all during its lifespan on the battlefield. Due to how packed the interior is, any penetrating shot is sure to cripple or outright destroy the tank.

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour (Hull, Turret roof)
  • Cast homogeneous armour (Turret, Gun mantlet)
Armour Front Sides Rear Roof
Hull 100 mm (59-77°) Front glacis
100 mm (56-59°) Lower glacis 		80 mm 20 mm (61°) Upper
45 mm (16°) Middle
20 mm (71°) Lower 		30 mm General
45 mm Engine grille
Turret 130-200 mm (14-39°) Turret front 100-160 mm (15-73°) 66-110 mm (4-41°) 30 mm

Notes:

  • Suspensions wheels and tracks are 20 mm thick
  • Belly armour is 20 mm thick.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB56 / 9 km/h
RB and SB51 / 8 km/h
Number of gears5 forward
1 back
Weight36.0 t
Engine power
AB1 107 hp
RB and SB580 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB30.8 hp/t
RB and SB16.1 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 56 9 36 899 1,107 24.97 30.75
Realistic 51 8 513 580 14.25 16.11

The maximum speed that the T-55A can reach is listed as 56 km/h (AB) and 50 km/h (RB/SB). That is ~15 km/h slower than the Leopard A1A1. However, the amount of firepower that the T-55A brings to the battlefield, coupled together with the ability to withstand shots sometimes, that speed is decent. Backwards, the T-55A can go at up to -7 km/h, which won't let you back out of tricky situations often.

The T-55A cannot turn in neutral gear, which makes it difficult to manoeuvre in close-quarter encounters, which often occur in urban environments. The acceleration is good, the T-55A can get to 25 km/h from a standstill on flat, rough terrain in a few seconds, and turning is decent on flat ground.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 569 → 6 181 Sl icon.png
RB5 055 → 6 839 Sl icon.png
SB6 932 → 9 378 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications112 500 Rp icon.png
194 400 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 300 Ge icon.png
Crew training110 000 Sl icon.png
Experts380 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces830 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
140 / 200 / 250 % Sl icon.png
208 / 208 / 208 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
6 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 600 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
5 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
5 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
7 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
7 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
7 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
1 800 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 600 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
1 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement ussr.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
7 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
ESS
Research:
7 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
6 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 600 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
100mm_BR412D_ammo_pack
Research:
6 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
9 600 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
100mm_3BK25_ammo_pack
Research:
5 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
5 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 600 Sl icon.png
200 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
100mm_3BK17M_ammo_pack
Research:
7 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
7 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
280 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
7 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
100mm_ussr_Smoke_ammo_pack
Research:
7 900 Rp icon.png
Cost:
13 000 Sl icon.png
300 Ge icon.png

With a default APDS round available, the T-55A is somewhat viable in a downtier to assist going through the modification research. Aside from getting the survivability upgrades in the "Parts" and "FPE" modules, unlocking better ammunition choices should be prioritised in order to access the more potent APFSDS round and the HEAT-FS shell in the "3BM25" and "3BK17M" modules respectively. The "NVD" module should also be researched early in order to survive the possibility of the next ground battle being at night time.

Armaments

Main armament

100 mm D-10T2S cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition43 rounds
First-order18 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
9.7 → 7.5 s
Vertical guidance-5° / 18°

The T-55A houses a 100 mm D-10T2S rifled anti-tank gun, which is equipped with an ejector and two-plane stabilizer arms. In-game, the T-55A has a 10.3 s reload rate, which is similar to its successor, the T-62. This rate of fire doesn't allow the T-55A to rush into battle and fend off waves of Leopards or M48s and M60s, but it is sufficient to defeat one or two opponents in quick succession with good shot placements, granted you shoot first.

100 mm D-10T2S Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 43 -5°/+18° ±180° Two-plane 14.3 19.8 24.0 26.5 28.2 9.75 8.63 7.95 7.50
Realistic 8.9 10.5 12.8 14.1 15.0

Ammunition

The stock round (3BM-8, APDS) allows the T-55A to penetrate MBT-70 and KPz-70 frontally, as well as deal with all other major threats, notably the Leopards (which you can penetrate anywhere), and Chieftains (LFP, or UFP/LFP with the APFSDS round). One of the major advantages that the T-55A has over the majority of rank VI vehicles is its APCBC shell, which has the potential to knock out any opponent it penetrates in a single shot. It is advised to flank your enemies and when given the opportunity, easily destroy oncoming enemies with this round.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
3BM-8 APDS 336 332 317 299 282 265
BR-412D APCBC 239 236 220 202 185 170
3BM25 APFSDS 335 330 307 290 275 260
3BK17M HEATFS 390 390 390 390 390 390
OF-412 HE 27 27 26 24 23 21
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
3BM-8 APDS 1,415 4.13 - - - 75° 78° 80°
BR-412D APCBC 887 15.88 1.2 19 100.1 48° 63° 71°
3BM25 APFSDS 1,430 3.4 - - - 76° 77° 80°
3BK17M HEATFS 1,085 9.96 0.05 0.1 1,170 65° 72° 77°
OF-412 HE 900 15.6 0.2 0.1 1,460 79° 80° 81°
Smoke shell characteristics
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Screen radius
(m) 		Screen deploy
time (s) 		Screen hold
time (s) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g)
3D3 880 15.6 16 5 25 50

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the T-55A
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
43 42 (+1) 37 (+6) 33 (+10) 21 (+22) 19 (+24) 1 (+42) No

Notes:

  • Shells are modeled individually and disappear after having been shot or loaded.
  • If you pack 19 (+24) shells, it will fill only the frontal wet stowage ready rack.
  • Rack 6 is a first stage ammo rack. It totals 18 shells and gets filled first when loading up the tank.
    • This rack is also emptied early: the depletion order at full capacity is: 6 - 1 - 2 - etc. until 5.
    • Simply not firing when the gun is loaded will move ammo from racks 1-5 into rack 6. Firing will interrupt the restocking of the ready racks.

Machine guns

12.7 mm DShK machine gun
Ammunition350 rounds
Belt capacity50 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Vertical guidance-10° / 60°
7.62 mm SGMT machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition3 500 rounds
Belt capacity250 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min

The T-55A has a roof-mounted 12.7 mm DShK machine gun, which allows it to fight low-flying aircraft or helicopters. However, it is not effective against jets. It is recommended to use this machine gun against lightly armoured ground targets and to check whether or not a tank is alive or not, by shooting its tracks (which can also be done with the coaxial machine gun).

12.7 mm DShK
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Pintle 350 (50) 600 -10°/+60° ±180°
7.62 mm SGMT
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 3,500 (250) 600 - -

Usage in battles

The T-55A usage in battle is very similar to the T-54 tanks prior to it. Aside from some minor design differences, the general armour layout of the T-55A is similar to that of the preceding T-54 (1951). The mobility is slightly better due to a more powerful engine, enabling a higher hp-to-ton ratio despite the small weight increase. The firepower of the T-55A compared to its predecessor is what makes it stand out, with access to the 3BM25 APFSDS ammunition that can penetrate 335 mm at point-blank range (compared to the T-54 (1951)'s point-blank penetration of 299 mm with the 3BM-8 APDS and 380 mm with the 3BK-5 HEATFS shell). The high-velocity and penetrating APFSDS shell allow the T-55A to more easily reach out and destroy long-range enemies. The option to use the BR-412D APCBC shell is also available to use in order to cause devastating post-penetration damages, especially against the Leopard 1 tanks that the APCBC shell can penetrate frontally. However, the presence of other tanks with enough armour to protect against the APCBC shell mean it is only situationally useful. Other helpful differences the T-55A has over the T-54 (1951) is a faster turret traverse rate and stabilizer, the latter of which is very useful when reacting to enemy targets on the move.

The T-55A is suited for a variety of roles and actions when assaulting or defending a point. In these roles, the firepower and mobility is sufficient, but the armour may not stand up against the enemy due to the prevalence of HEATFS and APFSDS ammo at this battle rating. As such, all these tactics should emphasize avoiding being seen and destroyed by the enemy.

A weak spot of the T-55A's is a shot through the upper front plate, which can knock out three of the four crew members easily.
Assaulting

The T-55A should use its mobility to advance with its allies towards the point. Unless in a downtiered match, try not to take point in the attack to avoid catching a shell right into the upper front plate, which could potentially knock the T-55A out. Avoid hilly terrain (due to the poor gun depression) and close quarter battle in urban terrain as the tank's reload and traverse speed are not sufficient to react to surprise enemy encounters, and the T-55A's rather poor reverse mobility makes retreat difficult, especially in an enclosed area.

The open plain is perhaps one of the better terrain to use the T-55A. The APFSDS dart can allow the T-55A to reach out at enemies that attempt to snipe from a distance. The low profile of the T-55A can even make use of the plain's depression and hills as cover and concealment as it moves closer to the enemies for a better shot.

The T-55A has enough mobility (when upgraded) to try larger flanking manoeuvres against the enemy on more open-spaced maps. Use the T-55A's profile to conceal its advance with the terrain. Use this to get the jump on enemy when they start receiving APFSDS shots from a direction they didn't expect the T-55A to be. Do note however that the T-55A can also encounter enemy flankers like the Leopards, which are faster and have enough firepower to end a T-55A should there be an unexpected encounter during this manoeuvre.

Defending

The T-55A has a turret traverse that can cover an angle of fire rather quickly, and the APFSDS means it can reach out and hit enemies from a long way before the enemy could get a good visual of the T-55A's position. Establish a zone for the T-55A to cover, preferably one with a choke point that enemies have to funnel through. Coordinate with allies to try and cover all necessary sectors against enemy advances onto a point as while the T-55A can deal with one or so tanks sporadically appearing in its zone, a coordinated attack by the enemy could very quickly overwhelm the T-55A's capacity to defend itself and the point.

Specific enemies worth noting

Although the T-55A can make short work of most enemies with its APFSDS round, some enemy vehicle in an uptier can be quite difficult to handle:

  • XM-803/Leopard 1A5: These tanks are highly mobile and have a sufficiently large enough gun to take out the T-55A. As such, these are enemies to expect to encounter on the T-55A's flanks or when the T-55A is flanking. Although, their armour configuration are thin enough that an APFSDS round can still take them out, so try and spot these tanks first before they could spot the T-55A
  • Chieftain: The armour configuration on a Chieftain requires more precise aiming than just a general "aim-at-center-mass" attitude. The largest weak point for the Chieftain tanks are their lower front plate, but this could be easily obscured if the Chieftain is acting in a hull-down position. Given their 120 mm guns can reach farther and faster than the T-55A's 100 mm, they can deny a much larger zone from tank travel, making it difficult for the T-55A to approach them when they're defending.
  • T-64: Although this is only encountered in mixed battles, these tanks feature armour array on their hull and turrets that can easily resist the T-55A's gun. Try and take them by surprise with a side shot.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Good mobility
  • Good gun with a wide ammo choices (APDS, APFSDS, APCBC, HEATFS and smoke)
  • Roof-mounted machine gun for anti-air defence
  • Comes with a stabiliser, unlike its older series the T-54
  • Armour provide full protection to autocannons frontally, the relatively thick side armour of 80mm can protect from many autocannons side on.
  • Engine smoke system can aid survivability

Cons:

  • Cramped crew layout makes the vehicle easy to knock out in one shot
  • Ready rack placed in fuel tanks provides a deadly weakspot
  • Stock performance is quite lacklustre
  • No rangefinder
  • Engine smoke system can only be used to help retreat and can be negated by vehicles with thermals
  • The armour doesn't hold up against sabot or HEAT ammunition

History

The T-55A is a variant of the extremely-popular T-55 main battle tank produced by the USSR after the Second World War. Along with the earlier T-54 main battle tanks, the T-54/T-55 MBT family is the most-produced tank series in history. The T-55 MBT design featured numerous improvements over the prior T-54s, including additional NBC (Nuclear, Biological & Chemical) protection systems, a new heavier turret, more ammunition, and improved equipment. The T-55A was a late modification of the earlier T-55 MBT, including improved NBC systems.

The T-54/T-55 family of main battle tanks were among the first main battle tanks to be introduced. The tanks were designed as a follow-up to the T-34 and T-44 medium tanks. Notably, the new T-54/T-55 tanks were fitted with a 100 mm rifled gun that was capable of penetrating the most heavily-armoured western tanks of the time but had a faster reload compared to the 122 mm guns used on the IS-series of heavy tanks.

The T-55 was designed as an evolutionary development of the T-54 MBT and included numerous changes compared to the previous tank model. Notably, the T-55 received NBC protection equipment designed to protect against tactical nuclear weapons. The T-55A further improved on the T-55's NBC protection system by introducing a full chemical weapon filtration system along with an anti-radiation lining inside the tank. These improvements greatly increased the crew's survivability against nuclear or chemical warfare. Compared to the T-54, the T-55 had its total shell capacity increased from 34 to 45; the T-55A was able to carry six more shells, through the removal of the hull machine gun.

The T-55A began production in 1963 and continued until 1977; numerous improvements were developed, including the T-55AM, a modified version of the T-55A featuring composite armour. The T-55 family served extensively with countries of the Warsaw Pact and was exported to many other countries. The T-55 family was retired from the Russian army in 2012 with remaining vehicles sold off to other countries; variants of the tank remain in service with numerous countries.

Media

Skins
Videos
T-54/T-55 family discusses the T-55A at 1:39 - War Thunder Official Channel
T-55A - The Russian Cannon Fodder - JustinPlaysYT
T-55A - Awesome Gunfood - Napalmratte
T-55A versus M60A1 RISE (P) - War Thunder Official Channel
The Shooting Range #46 - Metal Beasts section at 05:06 discusses the T-55A.

See also

Other vehicles of similar configuration and role

External links


USSR medium tanks
T-28  T-28 (1938) · T-28 · T-28E
T-34-76  T-34 (Prototype) · T-34 (1940) · T-34 (1941) · T-34 (1st Gv.T.Br.) · T-34 (1942) · T-34E STZ · T-34E
T-34-57  T-34-57 · T-34-57 (1943)
T-34-85  T-34-85 (D-5T) · T-34-85 · T-34-85E
T-34-100  T-34-100
T-44  T-44 · T-44-100 · T-44-122
T-54  T-54 (1947) · T-54 (1949) · T-54 (1951)
T-55  TO-55 · T-55A · T-55AM-1 · T-55AMD-1
T-62  T-62 · T-62M-1
T-64  Object 435 · T-64A (1971) · T-64B
T-72  T-72A · T-72AV (TURMS-T) · T-72B · T-72B (1989) · T-72B3 · T-72M2 Moderna
T-80  T-80B · T-80U · T-80UD · T-80UK · T-80UM2 · Т-80U-Е1 · T-80BVM · Object 292
T-90  Т-90А · T-90M
Trophies/Lend-Lease 
Germany  ▂T-III · ▂T-V
Great Britain  ▂МК-IX "Valentine"
USA  ▂M3 Medium · ▂M4A2

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