Difference between revisions of "M3 Bradley"

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{{Specs-Card|code=us_m3_bradley}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
−
|about = light tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = American light tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
|usage = other uses
+
| other
−
|link = M3 (Disambiguation)
+
| usage-1 = the other version
 +
| link-1 = M3A3 Bradley
 +
| usage-2 = other uses
 +
| link-2 = M3 (Disambiguation)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=us_m3_bradley
 +
|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 search for the ideal mechanized infantry combat vehicle (MICV) in the US military began as early as 1964, but design dissatisfaction and the Vietnam War complicated the procurement process while introducing new requests in what the US wants in their infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). A breakthrough to the final design was made when the FMC Corporation designed XM723 MICV was considered for the vehicle of choice for the IFV as the XM2 IFV, though the design was complicated again by having to also fit with the US Cavalry requirement as the XM3 Cavalry Fighting Vehicle (CFV). Following evaluations and criticism of the overall program, the XM2/3 was provided production approval in January 1980 as the M2 and M3 Bradley. Though both the infantry and cavalry variant shared similar exterior looks, the cavalry differed with the infantry seat area configured to contain more ammunition and missiles for the M242 chain gun and TOW launchers. As improvements were introduced into the design, the original M2/M3 variants were designated with an "A0" suffix. Though some A0s were sent before the onset of Operation Desert Storm in 1991 (both M2A0 and M3A0 consisted of 19% of all Bradleys in theater), the A0s were more intended as attrition spares while the improved A1 and A2 variants were sent into combat.
−
{{Break}}
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''', or '''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''', is a rank {{Specs|rank}} American light tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.85 "Supersonic"]].
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.85 "Supersonic"]], the M3 Bradley remains a relatively unique vehicle in the American lineup as an infantry fighting vehicle. Like in real-life, players would have to handle the Bradley's relatively large size alongside main battle tanks and its paper-thin armour against both kinetic and chemical shells. The mobility is nothing spectacular to write home about either aside from being able to get the Bradley from point A to point B in a suitable manner. That said, the variety of firepower it is able to dish out makes it a lethal machine. The APDS shells the autocannon armament fires can penetrate more than a few tanks from the side armour, not to mention being able to make mincemeat out of lightly armoured vehicles. However, when facing tanks or faraway targets, the TOW missiles are a great piece of tool to have to ensure a critical hit even from far out, the only downside being the long missile launcher deployment time from when the Bradley is moving to coming to a halt.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 +
{{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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
  
−
Armour protection of the Bradley CFV (Cavalry Fighting Vehicle) is relatively weak, it does offer protection from machine guns and some lower penetrating autocannon fire from the front, but most autocannons will easily penetrate the sides of the vehicle damaging components, crew and often detonating ammo stored in the rear of the vehicle. As aside, the engine mounted in front of the vehicle will offer some protection from main guns on tanks by absorbing spalling, saving crew members and preventing ammo detonations. Getting your gunner shot out is common, however, the breech of the autocannon is very small and therefore does not generally get knocked out. The vehicle does not often hull break although losing too many crew members is common, as there are only 3 in the tank.
+
Armour protection of the Bradley CFV (Cavalry Fighting Vehicle) is relatively weak, it does offer protection from machine guns and some lower penetrating autocannon fire from the front, but most autocannons will easily penetrate the sides of the vehicle damaging components, crew and often detonating ammo stored in the rear of the vehicle. As aside, the engine mounted in front of the vehicle will offer some protection from main guns on tanks by absorbing spalling, saving crew members and preventing ammo detonations. Getting your gunner shot out is common, however, the breech of the autocannon is very small and therefore does not generally get knocked out. Losing too many crew members is common, as there are only 3 in the tank.
  
 
=== 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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The {{PAGENAME}} has a maximum speed forward of 66 km/h or 49 km/h in battlefield conditions as well as -12 km/h in reverse. The transmission features 6 forward gears, 2 reverse as well as neutral steering. The vehicle is quite nimble and really only struggles to neutral steer in thick mud. Its lightweight allows it to traverse steep inclines with ease. It should be noted that the vehicles TOW missile launcher will automatically retract when the vehicle reaches speeds in excess of 10km/h.
 
The {{PAGENAME}} has a maximum speed forward of 66 km/h or 49 km/h in battlefield conditions as well as -12 km/h in reverse. The transmission features 6 forward gears, 2 reverse as well as neutral steering. The vehicle is quite nimble and really only struggles to neutral steer in thick mud. Its lightweight allows it to traverse steep inclines with ease. It should be noted that the vehicles TOW missile launcher will automatically retract when the vehicle reaches speeds in excess of 10km/h.
 +
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
{{main|M242 (25 mm)}}
 
{{main|M242 (25 mm)}}
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|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 1500 (300) || rowspan="2" | 201 || rowspan="2" | -9°/+59° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 57.1 || 78.83 || 96 || 106.16 || 112.94 || rowspan="2" | 0.26 || rowspan="2" | 0.23 || rowspan="2" | 0.21 || rowspan="2" | 0.20
+
| rowspan="2" | 1,500 (300) || rowspan="2" | 201 || rowspan="2" | -9°/+59° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Two-plane || 57.1 || 79.1 || 96.0 || 106.2 || 112.9 || rowspan="2" | 0.26 || rowspan="2" | 0.23 || rowspan="2" | 0.21 || rowspan="2" | 0.20
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| 35.70 || 42.13 || 51 || 56.4 || 60
+
| 35.7 || 42.0 || 51.0 || 56.4 || 60.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
  
−
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}
+
* '''Default:''' {{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}
−
* '''M792:''' {{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}
+
* '''M792:''' {{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}
−
* '''M791:''' {{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T|High-explosive incendiary tracer}}
+
* '''M791:''' {{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|APDS|Armour-piercing discarding sabot}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEI-T*|High-explosive incendiary tracer (self-destroying)}}
  
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:M242 (25 mm)/Ammunition|APDS, HEI-T*}}
−
! colspan="7" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
 
−
|-
 
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
−
|-
 
−
| Default || 81 || 80 || 76 || 70 || 66 || 61
 
−
|-
 
−
| M791 || 81 || 80 || 76 || 70 || 66 || 61
 
−
|-
 
−
| M792 || 81 || 80 || 76 || 70 || 66 || 61
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}. Racks outlined in red are 25 mm clips]]
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}. Racks outlined in red are 25 mm clips.]]
 +
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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=== Additional armament ===
 
=== Additional armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
<!-- ''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 about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage. If there is no additional weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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 about how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage. If there is no additional weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|BGM-71B TOW}}
+
{{main|BGM-71A TOW}}
  
−
The M3 Bradley comes equipped with a BGM-71B TOW ATGM launcher. The launcher contains two TOW missiles, which can be fired one after another in quick succession. Then, they are reloaded. Before you can fire, though, you have to be either stopped or moving at very low speeds, around 5 km/h. At higher speeds, the launcher folds up against the turret. When you stop, it takes time for the launcher to unfold before you can fire. This is where cruise control can be important. The first cruise control setting for forward and reverse speed is the "battle" setting. This controls the speed of the vehicle to where it is slow enough that you can fire the TOW missiles on the move. As before stated, this speed is very low, only about 10 km/h, so you should probably not drive in this mode of cruise control for the whole battle.
+
The M3 Bradley comes equipped with a BGM-71B TOW ATGM launcher. The launcher contains two TOW missiles, which can be fired one after another in quick succession. Then, they are reloaded. Before you can fire, though, you have to be either stopped or moving at very low speeds, around 5 km/h. At higher speeds, the launcher folds up against the turret. When you stop, it takes time for the launcher to unfold before you can fire. This is where cruise control can be important. The first cruise control setting for forward and reverse speed is the "battle" setting. This controls the speed of the vehicle to where it is slow enough that you can fire the TOW missiles on the move. As before stated, this speed is very low, only about 5 km/h, so you should probably not drive in this mode of cruise control for the whole battle.
  
−
==== Ammunition ====
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
+
! colspan="5" | [[BGM-71A TOW]] missile
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! colspan="6" | '''Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)'''
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
+
! Capacity (Belt) !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
|-
 
|-
−
| TOW || ATGM || 430 || 430 || 430 || 430 || 430 || 430
+
| 12 (2) || -19°/+29° || N/A || N/A
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
−
! colspan="10" | Shell details
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Type of<br>warhead
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Velocity<br>(m/s)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Projectile<br>Mass (kg)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse delay<br>(m)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Fuse sensitivity<br>(mm)
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Explosive Mass<br>(TNT equivalent) (g)
 
−
! colspan="3" | Ricochet
 
−
|-
 
−
! 0% !! 50% !! 100%
 
−
|-
 
−
| TOW || ATGM || 299 || 18.8 || N/A || 0.1 || 2,450 || 80° || 82° || 90°
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
==== Ammunition ====
 +
{{:BGM-71A TOW/Ammunition|TOW}}
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}. Racks outlined in green are ATGMs.]]
 
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}. Racks outlined in green are ATGMs.]]
 +
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|3}}
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 
{{main|M240 (7.62 mm)}}
 
{{main|M240 (7.62 mm)}}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | [[M240 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M240]]
 
! colspan="5" | [[M240 (7.62 mm)|7.62 mm M240]]
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Mount
+
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
−
! Capacity<br>(Belt capacity)
 
−
! Rate of fire<br>(shots/minute)
 
−
! Vertical<br>guidance
 
−
! Horizontal<br>guidance
 
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Coaxial || 4,400 (200) || 750 || N/A || N/A
+
| Coaxial || 4,400 (200) || 941 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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In arcade mode, the Bradley can be used very effectively as an anti-aircraft vehicle. Since in arcade you get a lead indicator, you should be able to accurately hit planes and helicopters. When using the HEI-T* ammunition one to two hits is usually fatal for an aircraft. TOW missiles can be used to great effect against helicopters as well, but it is probably smarter to save the ATGMs for ground targets. Also, it can be hard to hit a moving helicopter with an ATGM for someone who's inexperienced with ATGMs.
 
In arcade mode, the Bradley can be used very effectively as an anti-aircraft vehicle. Since in arcade you get a lead indicator, you should be able to accurately hit planes and helicopters. When using the HEI-T* ammunition one to two hits is usually fatal for an aircraft. TOW missiles can be used to great effect against helicopters as well, but it is probably smarter to save the ATGMs for ground targets. Also, it can be hard to hit a moving helicopter with an ATGM for someone who's inexperienced with ATGMs.
  
−
One last note: the TOW missiles should be your primary weapon, not your autocannon. Firing the autocannon will likely give away your position instantly, so unless you have already been seen, or if you know you can kill the target quickly, do not use the autocannon. The autocannon can not effectively destroy tanks but is mostly just effective against SPAA's and light tanks. Those targets can also kill you very easily though, so it is almost always better to use the TOW missiles, in order to destroy the enemy tank quickly and efficiently. On the other hand, if an enemy tank is at close range, and has spotted you, you can often use the autocannon to damage or destroy their gun barrel with multiple, well-aimed, shots, to by yourself more time.
+
One last note: the TOW missiles should be your primary weapon, not your autocannon. Firing the autocannon will likely give away your position instantly, so unless you have already been seen, or if you know you can kill the target quickly, do not use the autocannon. The autocannon can not effectively destroy tanks but is mostly just effective against SPAA's and light tanks. Those targets can also kill you very easily though, so it is almost always better to use the TOW missiles, in order to destroy the enemy tank quickly and efficiently. On the other hand, if an enemy tank is at close range, and has spotted you, you can often use the autocannon to damage or destroy their gun barrel with multiple, well-aimed, shots, to buy yourself more time.
−
 
 
−
=== Modules ===
 
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 
−
! Protection
 
−
! colspan="3" | Firepower
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Tracks
 
−
|
 
−
| Parts
 
−
| M792
 
−
| Horizontal Drive
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
| Suspension
 
−
| Brake System
 
−
| FPE
 
−
|
 
−
| Adjustment of Fire
 
−
| Airstrike
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Filters
 
−
|
 
−
| Crew Replenishment
 
−
| M791
 
−
| Elevation Mechanism
 
−
| Smoke grenade
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| Transmission
 
−
| Engine
 
−
| ESS
 
−
| Artillery Support
 
−
| Improved optics
 
−
| NVD
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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* Excels at urban combat, as the gun can be effective when engaging MBTs, except for the Russian MBTs
 
* Excels at urban combat, as the gun can be effective when engaging MBTs, except for the Russian MBTs
−
* Low repair and ammo costs
 
−
* Massive radiator makes tank hull semi-invulnerable to APHE from the right side, can even survive 3 direct hits from the [[Maus]] if lucky enough
 
 
* Outclasses stock 35 mm autocannon tanks which use API or APHE as long as long-range (about 1.1 km) and moderate front armour angle is kept, can even sustain low calibre APDS and HVAP hits from spaded light tanks if it has the high ground
 
* Outclasses stock 35 mm autocannon tanks which use API or APHE as long as long-range (about 1.1 km) and moderate front armour angle is kept, can even sustain low calibre APDS and HVAP hits from spaded light tanks if it has the high ground
−
* Can fire missiles at "combat" cruise control, albeit only at about 5 km/h (can be considered as a downgrade after [[M551]], but it's still better than most light tanks)
+
* Can fire missiles at "combat" cruise control, albeit only at about 5 km/h (can be considered as a downgrade after [[M551]], but still usable when compared to its peers)
−
* 25mm autocannon can easily tear through lightly armoured SPAAs
+
* 25 mm autocannon can easily tear through light vehicles and is useful for engaging helicopters
 
* TOW missiles capable of penetrating many tanks from the front with ease
 
* TOW missiles capable of penetrating many tanks from the front with ease
−
* Fast turret traverse + stabilizer = Easy to deal with air targets while moving
+
* Has a fast turret traverse and two-plane stabilizer, allowing for quick reaction times and accurate fire on the move
 
* Slow ATGM allows for easier aiming onto target
 
* Slow ATGM allows for easier aiming onto target
−
* Has access to NVD + Thermal sight, which is an absolute advantage against its opponents
+
* Has access to first generation gunner thermals
 +
* Can fire two missiles in a row before reloading
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
 
* Additional side armour plates and turret frontal slope protect against 12.7 machine guns, but will always set off APHE, so caution is required
 
* Additional side armour plates and turret frontal slope protect against 12.7 machine guns, but will always set off APHE, so caution is required
−
* M242 cannon has a lower rate of fire compared to the M242 used on the ADATS
+
* Low fire rate on the autocannon; faster than the British 30 mm RARDEN but slower than the Russian 30 mm 2A42 and most SPAA autocannons
−
* Not entirety of the sides of the hull are protected from machine guns and autocannons, the missile ammo rack in the back and ventilation are vulnerable, turret ring can be exploited by high fire rate autocannons
+
* Survivability is poor as with other IFVs; its autocannon belt is easy to hit and the vehicle is prone to overpressure
−
* Relatively slow
+
* Relatively slow, especially in reverse
−
* A rather tall and large target, meaning it is very easy to spot
+
* Large size makes it easy to spot
−
* Quick firing SPAA's can destroy the Bradley quickly
+
* Engine, transmission, and driver at front of the vehicle are very prone to damage
−
* Engine, transmission and driver at front of the vehicle are very prone to damage, although it is better to lose them, than the entire tank
+
* Only has access to basic TOW missiles; struggles against later tanks with composite and explosive reactive armor
−
* TOW missiles have trouble penetrating later Russian tanks from the front
+
* Cannot fire missiles on the move and must raise the launcher before firing
−
* ATGM is slow and may allow enemies to go into cover before it hits them
+
* Low thermal sight resolution in comparison to the Warrior
−
* Air exhaust near the turret blocks the gunner's thermal sight
+
* Loud and noticeable engine sound
−
* Thermal sight has low resolution and overall quality is low
+
* Default and M792 belts perform poorly against heavier targets
−
* Like other turbine engines, the engine on the Bradley is loud and makes flanking hard sometimes.
+
* Prone to overpressure; explosive rounds with enough filler hitting the turret will usually knock it out
 +
* Does not have access to a laser rangefinder
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
Line 257: Line 197:
 
;Skins
 
;Skins
  
−
*[https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=usa&vehicleType=tank&vehicleClass=light_tank&vehicle=us_m3_bradley '''Skins''' and '''camouflages''' for the M3 Bradley from live.warthunder.com.]
+
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=us_m3_bradley Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Images
 +
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="200">
 +
Image:M3 Bradley Explosion (1).jpg|<small>M3 Bradley hit by enemy fire</small>
 +
Image:M3 Bradley Explosion (2).jpg|<small>M3 Bradley hit by enemy fire</small>
 +
</gallery>
  
 
;Videos
 
;Videos
−
{{Youtube-gallery|wpm0DcBWhIA|'''The Shooting Range #126''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 05:52 discusses the M3 Bradley.}}
+
{{Youtube-gallery|EqBcQom4ilU|'''M3(A3) Bradley Ultimate Review''' - ''Bob Dickinson''|2h5kFyznXKU|'''Best IFVs''' discusses the {{PAGENAME}} at 1:24 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''|p6_wtLInMRc|'''{{PAGENAME}} - I Expected More''' - ''Napalmratte''|wpm0DcBWhIA|'''The Shooting Range #126''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 05:52 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;''
+
;Similar IFVs of other nations
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
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* [[Begleitpanzer 57]]
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* [[BMP-2]]
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* [[Warrior]]
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* [[Type 89]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
 
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
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* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
 
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
  
 
* [[wt:en/news/5919-development-m3-bradley-the-modern-workhorse-en|[Devblog] M3 Bradley: The Modern Workhorse]]
 
* [[wt:en/news/5919-development-m3-bradley-the-modern-workhorse-en|[Devblog] M3 Bradley: The Modern Workhorse]]
  
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{{TankManufacturer FMC}}
 
{{USA light tanks}}
 
{{USA light tanks}}
  
 
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]
 
[[Category:ATGM vehicles]]

Latest revision as of 12:33, 10 May 2024

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
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This page is about the American light tank M3 Bradley. For the other version, see M3A3 Bradley. For other uses, see M3 (Disambiguation).
M3 Bradley
us_m3_bradley.png
GarageImage M3 Bradley.jpg
ArtImage M3 Bradley.png
M3 Bradley
USA flag.png USA
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
8.3 8.3 8.3
Class:
Research:160 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:450 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The search for the ideal mechanized infantry combat vehicle (MICV) in the US military began as early as 1964, but design dissatisfaction and the Vietnam War complicated the procurement process while introducing new requests in what the US wants in their infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). A breakthrough to the final design was made when the FMC Corporation designed XM723 MICV was considered for the vehicle of choice for the IFV as the XM2 IFV, though the design was complicated again by having to also fit with the US Cavalry requirement as the XM3 Cavalry Fighting Vehicle (CFV). Following evaluations and criticism of the overall program, the XM2/3 was provided production approval in January 1980 as the M2 and M3 Bradley. Though both the infantry and cavalry variant shared similar exterior looks, the cavalry differed with the infantry seat area configured to contain more ammunition and missiles for the M242 chain gun and TOW launchers. As improvements were introduced into the design, the original M2/M3 variants were designated with an "A0" suffix. Though some A0s were sent before the onset of Operation Desert Storm in 1991 (both M2A0 and M3A0 consisted of 19% of all Bradleys in theater), the A0s were more intended as attrition spares while the improved A1 and A2 variants were sent into combat.

Introduced in Update 1.85 "Supersonic", the M3 Bradley remains a relatively unique vehicle in the American lineup as an infantry fighting vehicle. Like in real-life, players would have to handle the Bradley's relatively large size alongside main battle tanks and its paper-thin armour against both kinetic and chemical shells. The mobility is nothing spectacular to write home about either aside from being able to get the Bradley from point A to point B in a suitable manner. That said, the variety of firepower it is able to dish out makes it a lethal machine. The APDS shells the autocannon armament fires can penetrate more than a few tanks from the side armour, not to mention being able to make mincemeat out of lightly armoured vehicles. However, when facing tanks or faraway targets, the TOW missiles are a great piece of tool to have to ensure a critical hit even from far out, the only downside being the long missile launcher deployment time from when the Bradley is moving to coming to a halt.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
ESS
Creation of a smoke screen in the direction of movement of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull38 / 44 / 44
Turret25 / 25 / 25
Crew3 people
Visibility117 %

Armour protection of the Bradley CFV (Cavalry Fighting Vehicle) is relatively weak, it does offer protection from machine guns and some lower penetrating autocannon fire from the front, but most autocannons will easily penetrate the sides of the vehicle damaging components, crew and often detonating ammo stored in the rear of the vehicle. As aside, the engine mounted in front of the vehicle will offer some protection from main guns on tanks by absorbing spalling, saving crew members and preventing ammo detonations. Getting your gunner shot out is common, however, the breech of the autocannon is very small and therefore does not generally get knocked out. Losing too many crew members is common, as there are only 3 in the tank.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB74 / 16 km/h
RB and SB66 / 14 km/h
Number of gears6 forward
2 back
Weight22.3 t
Engine power
AB967 hp
RB and SB507 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB43.4 hp/t
RB and SB22.7 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 74 16 22.3 786 967 35.25 43.36
Realistic 66 14 448 507 20.09 22.74

The M3 Bradley has a maximum speed forward of 66 km/h or 49 km/h in battlefield conditions as well as -12 km/h in reverse. The transmission features 6 forward gears, 2 reverse as well as neutral steering. The vehicle is quite nimble and really only struggles to neutral steer in thick mud. Its lightweight allows it to traverse steep inclines with ease. It should be noted that the vehicles TOW missile launcher will automatically retract when the vehicle reaches speeds in excess of 10km/h.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB2 917 → 5 066 Sl icon.png
RB3 297 → 5 726 Sl icon.png
SB4 024 → 6 989 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications133 200 Rp icon.png
221 400 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 400 Ge icon.png
Crew training130 000 Sl icon.png
Experts450 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 000 Ge icon.png
Research Aces890 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
120 / 170 / 210 % Sl icon.png
214 / 214 / 214 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 400 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 400 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Research:
7 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Research:
7 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Research:
2 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Research:
1 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 400 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods tank reinforcement us.png
Crew Replenishment
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
ESS
Research:
7 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
25mm_M242_HE_ammo_pack
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 400 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods airstrike.png
Airstrike
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 400 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods scout streak.png
Scout UAV
Research:
5 300 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 400 Sl icon.png
290 Ge icon.png
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods tank ammo.png
25mm_M242_APDS_ammo_pack
Research:
7 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
11 000 Sl icon.png
390 Ge icon.png
Mods art support.png
Artillery Support
Research:
7 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods scouting.png
Improved optics
Research:
7 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png
Mods thermal sight.png
NVD
Research:
7 700 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
420 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Night vision device
Improves visibility by enhancing natural light or active illumination.
Thermal imager
Allows to see thermal radiation in the infrared range day and night

Main armament

25 mm M242 cannon
Two-plane stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in two planes while moving
Ammunition1 500 rounds
Belt capacity300 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
0.3 → 0.2 s
Fire rate201 shots/min
Vertical guidance-9° / 59°
Main article: M242 (25 mm)
25 mm M242 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 1,500 (300) 201 -9°/+59° ±180° Two-plane 57.1 79.1 96.0 106.2 112.9 0.26 0.23 0.21 0.20
Realistic 35.7 42.0 51.0 56.4 60.0

Ammunition

  • Default: APDS · HEI-T*
  • M792: HEI-T* · HEI-T* · HEI-T* · APDS
  • M791: APDS · APDS · APDS · 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
APDS 81 80 74 67 61 56
HEI-T* 7 6 4 3 3 3
Shell details
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
APDS 1,345 0.13 - - - 75° 78° 80°
HEI-T* 1,100 0.19 0.1 0.1 54.4 79° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the M3 Bradley. Racks outlined in red are 25 mm clips.
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
5 4 (+1) 3 (+2) 2 (+3) 1 (+4) No

Additional armament

BGM-71A TOW ATGM
Ammunition12 rounds
Belt capacity2 rounds
Fire rate120 shots/min
Vertical guidance-19° / 29°
Fire on the moveup to 6 km/h
Main article: BGM-71A TOW

The M3 Bradley comes equipped with a BGM-71B TOW ATGM launcher. The launcher contains two TOW missiles, which can be fired one after another in quick succession. Then, they are reloaded. Before you can fire, though, you have to be either stopped or moving at very low speeds, around 5 km/h. At higher speeds, the launcher folds up against the turret. When you stop, it takes time for the launcher to unfold before you can fire. This is where cruise control can be important. The first cruise control setting for forward and reverse speed is the "battle" setting. This controls the speed of the vehicle to where it is slow enough that you can fire the TOW missiles on the move. As before stated, this speed is very low, only about 5 km/h, so you should probably not drive in this mode of cruise control for the whole battle.

BGM-71A TOW missile
Capacity (Belt) Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer
12 (2) -19°/+29° N/A N/A

Ammunition

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
TOW ATGM 430 430 430 430 430 430
Missile details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Range
(m) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
TOW ATGM 299 3,000 18.82 0.05 0.1 3.75 80° 82° 90°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the M3 Bradley. Racks outlined in green are ATGMs.
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
12 10 (+2) 8 (+4) 6 (+6) 4 (+8) 2 (+10) Yes

Machine guns

7.62 mm M240 machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition4 400 rounds
Belt capacity200 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate941 shots/min
Main article: M240 (7.62 mm)
7.62 mm M240
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 4,400 (200) 941 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

One way the Bradley can be played is as an ambush vehicle. Find a good location where you have sufficient protective cover to secure your position, but where you can see at least one lane of attack that the enemy is likely to use. Since you will be sitting still, your TOW launcher will be deployed, and you can fire TOW missiles whenever you need to. The best way to use the TOW missiles is to hit the enemy in the side. Two TOW missiles to the side should almost always kill a tank if well aimed.

Another way to use the Bradley is to get hull down, at long range and use the TOW launcher to deadly effect. Since you do not have to calculate for drop for ATGMs, you should be able to reliably hit your target and do major damage. Because you are firing at such long-range, it is likely the enemy will not spot you in time to shoot at you, or they will miss at least their first shot.

The Bradley can also be used effectively in urban combat. If you pick a side street to set up, when the enemy goes past, hopefully without seeing you, you will be able to hit them in the side with the TOW launcher.

In arcade mode, the Bradley can be used very effectively as an anti-aircraft vehicle. Since in arcade you get a lead indicator, you should be able to accurately hit planes and helicopters. When using the HEI-T* ammunition one to two hits is usually fatal for an aircraft. TOW missiles can be used to great effect against helicopters as well, but it is probably smarter to save the ATGMs for ground targets. Also, it can be hard to hit a moving helicopter with an ATGM for someone who's inexperienced with ATGMs.

One last note: the TOW missiles should be your primary weapon, not your autocannon. Firing the autocannon will likely give away your position instantly, so unless you have already been seen, or if you know you can kill the target quickly, do not use the autocannon. The autocannon can not effectively destroy tanks but is mostly just effective against SPAA's and light tanks. Those targets can also kill you very easily though, so it is almost always better to use the TOW missiles, in order to destroy the enemy tank quickly and efficiently. On the other hand, if an enemy tank is at close range, and has spotted you, you can often use the autocannon to damage or destroy their gun barrel with multiple, well-aimed, shots, to buy yourself more time.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Excels at urban combat, as the gun can be effective when engaging MBTs, except for the Russian MBTs
  • Outclasses stock 35 mm autocannon tanks which use API or APHE as long as long-range (about 1.1 km) and moderate front armour angle is kept, can even sustain low calibre APDS and HVAP hits from spaded light tanks if it has the high ground
  • Can fire missiles at "combat" cruise control, albeit only at about 5 km/h (can be considered as a downgrade after M551, but still usable when compared to its peers)
  • 25 mm autocannon can easily tear through light vehicles and is useful for engaging helicopters
  • TOW missiles capable of penetrating many tanks from the front with ease
  • Has a fast turret traverse and two-plane stabilizer, allowing for quick reaction times and accurate fire on the move
  • Slow ATGM allows for easier aiming onto target
  • Has access to first generation gunner thermals
  • Can fire two missiles in a row before reloading

Cons:

  • Additional side armour plates and turret frontal slope protect against 12.7 machine guns, but will always set off APHE, so caution is required
  • Low fire rate on the autocannon; faster than the British 30 mm RARDEN but slower than the Russian 30 mm 2A42 and most SPAA autocannons
  • Survivability is poor as with other IFVs; its autocannon belt is easy to hit and the vehicle is prone to overpressure
  • Relatively slow, especially in reverse
  • Large size makes it easy to spot
  • Engine, transmission, and driver at front of the vehicle are very prone to damage
  • Only has access to basic TOW missiles; struggles against later tanks with composite and explosive reactive armor
  • Cannot fire missiles on the move and must raise the launcher before firing
  • Low thermal sight resolution in comparison to the Warrior
  • Loud and noticeable engine sound
  • Default and M792 belts perform poorly against heavier targets
  • Prone to overpressure; explosive rounds with enough filler hitting the turret will usually knock it out
  • Does not have access to a laser rangefinder

History

Development of the Bradley began in the late 1950s when the U.S. Army began seeking a replacement for the ageing M113 APC. However, despite beginning development relatively early, the successor to the M113 wouldn't enter service with the Army in the following two decades.

The reason behind this was the constantly changing specifications, requirements and doctrines around which the new vehicle would be designed. The constantly changing requirements, on the other hand, were driven by various technical and political problems arising during development.

Eventually, in 1979, the final design was presented to the Army and production was approved shortly afterwards in 1980. The Bradley, named after WW2 Army General Omar Bradley, was split into two versions, both closely resembling each other, but featuring minor differences and intended for different roles.

While the M2 Bradley was intended as an IFV, capable of transporting and supporting infantry units in combat, the M3 Bradley CFV (Cavalry Fighting Vehicle) is intended to perform scouting and reconnaissance work, ditching its infantry-carrying ability in favour of improved communications systems and increased ammunition capacity.

The Bradley entered service with the U.S. Army in 1981 and saw extensive combat use during the Gulf War as well as subsequent conflicts. Despite several (unsuccessful) efforts being made to replace the Bradley with a newer design, the vehicle still remains in active service with U.S. armed forces today, with over 6,500 units produced.

- From Devblog

Media

Skins
Images

  • M3 Bradley hit by enemy fire

  • M3 Bradley hit by enemy fire

Videos
M3(A3) Bradley Ultimate Review - Bob Dickinson
Best IFVs discusses the M3 Bradley at 1:24 - War Thunder Official Channel
M3 Bradley - I Expected More - Napalmratte
The Shooting Range #126 - Pages of History section at 05:52 discusses the M3 Bradley.

See also

Similar IFVs of other nations

External links


Food Machinery Corporation (FMC)
Amphibious AFVs  LVT(A)(1) · LVT(A)(4)
IFVs  M3 Bradley · M3A3 Bradley

USA light tanks
LVT  LVT(A)(1) · ○LVT(A)(1) · LVT(A)(4)
M2  M2A2 · M2A4 · M2A4 (1st Arm.Div.)
M3/M5 Stuart  M3 Stuart · M3A1 Stuart · M3A1 (USMC) · M5A1 · M5A1 TD · ▃Stuart VI (5th CAD)
M22 Locust  M22
M24 Chaffee  M24 · M24 (TL)
M18 Hellcat  M18 GMC · M18 "Black Cat" · Super Hellcat
M41 Walker Bulldog  M41A1
M551 Sheridan  M551 · M551(76)
M3 Bradley  M3 Bradley · M3A3 Bradley
Wheeled  M8 LAC · T18E2 · M1128 · M1128 Wolfpack
Other  M8A1 GMC · T92 · T114 · HSTV-L · CCVL · XM8 · XM800T · AGS

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