Difference between revisions of "Pz.Kpfw. Churchill (Germany)"

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{{Specs-Card|code=germ_infanterie_kampfpanzer_churchill}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
−
| about = captured British heavy tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = premium heavy tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
−
| usage = other Churchill tanks
+
| usage = other versions
 
| link = Churchill (Family)
 
| link = Churchill (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=germ_infanterie_kampfpanzer_churchill
 +
|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 Churchill tank was an infantry tank produced by Great Britain intended for supporting an infantry assault with its armour and firepower. The Churchill tank's first action was during the disastrous Dieppe Raid in August 1942, which saw a number of them committed then lost when the Allies were unable to recover the tank during their retreat. The Germans captured these tanks and subjected them through evaluations. Their initial impressions were poor, thinking the Churchill tank as obsolete. The captured Churchills were repurposed within the Wehrmacht in roles such as ''Beutepanzers'' or shore fortifications.
−
{{break}}
 
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The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} premium German heavy tank {{Battle-rating}}. This vehicle was introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]].
 
  
−
The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is a German captured [[Churchill Mk III]] in the German tech tree. It has virtually no differences to its British tech-tree counterpart, other than being painted grey (with the same tone as the Panzer IV and Panzer III).
+
Introduced in [[Update 1.55 "Royal Armour"]], the Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is a German captured [[Churchill Mk III]] that is distinguished by being painted grey (with the same tone as the Panzer IV and Panzer III) and possess white Wehrmacht markings. The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is one of the best heavy tanks in rank III, sporting heavy frontal armour, a 6-pounder gun that is suitable for its rank, and 30 smoke grenades that are fired separately from the roof, great for covering great areas with smoke. The Churchill also has great gun depression and turret traverse, meaning it can fire at different targets very efficiently. However, the low acceleration and speed makes it a slug on the battlefield, making it difficult to manoeuvre and a large target against enemy guns. The thin roof armour also means that the tank is perfect prey to fighter-bombers and rocket attacks.
−
 
 
−
The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is one of the best heavy tanks in rank III, sporting heavy frontal armour, a 6 pounder gun that is suitable for its rank, and 30 smoke grenades that are fired separately from the roof, great for covering great areas with smoke. The Churchill also has great gun depression and turret traverse, meaning it can fire at different targets very efficiently.
 
−
 
 
−
This vehicle has a few weaknesses which are important to be aware of before charging into battle. First is its low acceleration with a maximum speed of only 24.9 km/h, so it’s merely jogging speed as opposed to charging. The tank is also very bulky, difficult to manoeuvre, and a large target. Combine those weaknesses with thin roof armour, and this tank becomes the perfect prey for fighter-bombers and rocket attacks. The side armour is not as strong as it’s frontal armour, meaning it is vulnerable to flanking.
 
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
<!--Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat?
+
{{Specs-Tank-Armour}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.'' -->
  
−
If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.-->
+
There are very few enemies which can successfully penetrate the Churchill, although the [[M10 GMC|M10]] and the [[Achilles]] can quickly take care of this vehicle even at long ranges. Other tanks like the [[Jagdpanzer IV]], the [[Jagdpanzer 38(t)]], and the [[Dicker Max]] can also make quick work of the Churchill, but only in arcade battles, as in realistic battles, they all belong in the same tree.
−
 
 
−
There are very few enemies which can successfully penetrate the Churchill, the [[M10 GMC|M10]] and the [[Achilles]] can quickly take care of this vehicle even at long ranges! Other tanks like the [[Jagdpanzer IV]], the [[Jagdpanzer 38(t)]], and the [[Dicker Max]] can also make quick work of the Churchill, but only in arcade battles, as in realistic battles, they all belong in the same tree.
 
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
−
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 452|rbMinHp= 310|<!--AoAweight=(optional) -->}}
+
{{tankMobility|abMinHp= 452|rbMinHp= 310}}
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Armaments}}
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|1}}
 
<!-- ''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.'' -->
 
<!-- ''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|6pdr OQF Mk.V (57 mm)}}
 
{{main|6pdr OQF Mk.V (57 mm)}}
Line 45: Line 47:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Arcade''
 
! ''Arcade''
−
| rowspan="2" | 85 || rowspan="2" | -12°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | Vertical || 19.42 || 26.88 || 32.64 || 36.10 || 38.40 || rowspan="2" | 5.20 || rowspan="2" | 4.60 || rowspan="2" | 4.24 || rowspan="2" | 4.00
+
| rowspan="2" | 85 || rowspan="2" | -12°/+20° || rowspan="2" | ±180° || rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Shoulder|up to 10 km/h}} || 19.4 || 26.9 || 32.6 || 36.1 || 38.4 || rowspan="2" | 5.20 || rowspan="2" | 4.60 || rowspan="2" | 4.24 || rowspan="2" | 4.00
 
|-
 
|-
 
! ''Realistic''
 
! ''Realistic''
−
| 14.28 || 16.80 || 20.40 || 22.56 || 24.00
+
| 14.3 || 16.8 || 20.4 || 22.6 || 24.0
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:6pdr OQF Mk.V (57 mm)/Ammunition|Shot Mk.8, Shot Mk.5 HV, Shot Mk.9, Shell Mk.10}}
−
! colspan="8" | Penetration statistics
 
−
|-
 
−
! rowspan="2" data-sort-type="text" | Ammunition
 
−
! 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
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.8 || APC || 116 || 111 || 94 || 76 || 62 || 50
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.5 HV || AP || 115 || 111 || 93 || 75 || 60 || 49
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.9 || APCBC || 132 || 127 || 110 || 91 || 75 || 63
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shell Mk.10 || HE || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" 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%
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.8 || APC || 883 || 2.87 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.5 HV || AP || 891 || 2.8 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.9 || APCBC || 847 || 3.23 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shell Mk.10 || HE || 655 || 2.72 || 0.1 || 0.1 || 590 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 +
[[File:Ammoracks_Churchill_III.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the Churchill III (identical)]]
 +
<!-- '''Last updated: 1.101.1.16''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
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! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''85''' || 68&nbsp;''(+17)'' || 51&nbsp;''(+34)'' || 34&nbsp;''(+51)'' || 17&nbsp;''(+68)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+84)'' || style="text-align:center" | Yes
+
| '''85''' || 82&nbsp;''(+3)'' || 43&nbsp;''(+42)'' || 22&nbsp;''(+63)'' || 5&nbsp;''(+80)'' || 1&nbsp;''(+84)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes''':
  
−
Turret empty: 68&nbsp;''(+17)''
+
* Racks disappear after all shells in the rack have been shot or loaded.
 +
* Turret empty: 82&nbsp;''(+3)'' shells.
  
 
==== Optics ====
 
==== Optics ====
−
 
−
<!--Explain how the optic's status can affect the tank's gameplay in any unique or meaningful way. A comparison to rival tanks of the rank is welcome.
 
−
 
−
If you are having problems with it, refer to the [[Optics|optics gallery]] page for examples.-->
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} [[Optics]]
 
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} [[Optics]]
Line 125: Line 87:
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Main Gun optics
 
! Main Gun optics
−
| x1.85 || x3.5 <!--Sometimes the actual value may not be known and here it should be referenced if the optic values are an estimate such as with an "X8.3 (estimated)" notation or something else that way the user will then be able to look to the comparable optics section and see a referenced optic which will have actual in-game data to back up the claim.-->
+
| x1.85 || x3.5
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Comparable optics
 
! Comparable optics
Line 133: Line 95:
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Weapon|2}}
 
<!-- ''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|BESA (7.92 mm)}}
 
{{main|BESA (7.92 mm)}}
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== Usage in battles ==
 
== 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).-->
+
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 
Like its British counterpart, the Churchill can be used as a very efficient brawler with its excellent turret traverse and gun depression, and heavy frontal armour. Though in urban environments, you should be careful in case someone tries to flank your weak side and rear armour.
 
Like its British counterpart, the Churchill can be used as a very efficient brawler with its excellent turret traverse and gun depression, and heavy frontal armour. Though in urban environments, you should be careful in case someone tries to flank your weak side and rear armour.
  
−
If you are not in an up-tiered situation, you can effectively enter a battle and absorb all the enemy rounds which could’ve been fired at your weaker teammates and either engage the enemy with your 57 mm cannon or let your teammates return fire. Companion vehicles such as the [[Pz.IV F2|Panzer IV F2]], "[[8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl.|Flakbus]]" and other German vehicles possess superior firepower compared to the other country vehicles in rank III (Except for other special TD’s, such as the American [[M10 GMC|M10]] and British [[Achilles]]) and can in most cases hold their own.
+
This tank can be effectively be played in a brawling style, going into the front lines. This tank, due to its excellent armour and gun, can even hold off an entire enemy flank with minimal backup. In city maps, be careful not to expose your side armour as it is quite weak and your engine might get damaged. With its good gun, it can be as a support tank as well, in the second line destroying tanks. Angle your armour to maximize its effectiveness. When frontally angled, even the sides will be tough to penetrate. Many tanks will struggle penetrating you. There are some tanks that you don't even need to worry at all penetrating you from the front, such as the Panzer III. Angling your armour will make you even tough against the high penetration Panzer IV F2. However, be aware of higher penetration tanks. The M10 is a worthy mention as most of the time it might be able to penetrate your armour. The far deadlier Achilles can penetrate your front with little effort. Thus, it is advised to take cover, angle, or destroy them first. Shermans are not much threat since they won't really penetrate your armour, but sometimes they do. They are easy to deal with as your 57 mm gun can punch straight through. Your 57 oddly does a lot of damage for a 57 mm gun. It can one shot Panzer III's, and sometimes Shermans if you aim correctly. Overall, the Churchill III is a very powerful Rank III vehicle that is capable of holding off an entire flank, while destroying tanks easily in quick succession.
  
−
=== Modules ===
+
If you are not in an up-tiered situation, you can effectively enter a battle and absorb all the enemy rounds which could've been fired at your weaker teammates and either engage the enemy with your 57 mm cannon or let your teammates return fire. Companion vehicles such as the [[Pz.IV F2|Panzer IV F2]], [[8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl.]] and other German vehicles possess superior firepower compared to the other country vehicles in rank III (Except for other special TDs, such as the American [[M10 GMC]] and British [[Achilles]]) and can in most cases hold their own.
−
{| class="wikitable"
 
−
! Tier
 
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
 
−
! Protection
 
−
! colspan="2" | Firepower
 
−
|-
 
−
| I
 
−
| Tracks
 
−
|
 
−
| Parts
 
−
| Horizontal Drive
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| II
 
−
| Suspension
 
−
| Brake System
 
−
| FPE
 
−
| Shot Mk.5 HV
 
−
| Adjustment of fire
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Filters
 
−
|
 
−
| Crew Replenishment
 
−
| Shot Mk.9
 
−
| Elevation Mechanism
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| Transmission
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Smoke grenade
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="7" |This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
=== 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:'''
  
Line 198: Line 125:
 
* 90 mm turret armour is effective at medium & long range
 
* 90 mm turret armour is effective at medium & long range
 
* Large tracks can absorb shells fired at the side
 
* Large tracks can absorb shells fired at the side
−
* Fast turret traverse; easy to engage people without turning
+
* Fast turret traverse, easy to engage people without turning
−
* 57 mm gun reloads quickly with good penetration
+
* 57 mm gun reloads quickly
−
* Premium tank earns more rewards after a match
+
* Good penetration
−
* Fewer enemies that can kill you in RB and SB, as you are in the German tree
 
 
* Slow speed makes it easy to hit enemies after a shortstop
 
* Slow speed makes it easy to hit enemies after a shortstop
 
* 30 individually fired smoke grenades, great for covering points and areas with smoke
 
* 30 individually fired smoke grenades, great for covering points and areas with smoke
 +
* Good gun depression
 +
* Has access to a low-speed stabilizer for firing on the move, pairs well with the vehicle's slow speed
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Large target; easily spotted by bombers/fighter-bombers
+
* No HE filler for any rounds, unless hitting an ammo rack, it will require multiple shots to take the target down
 +
* Large target, easily spotted by bombers/fighter-bombers
 
* Very poor speed, both forward and backward
 
* Very poor speed, both forward and backward
 
* Unangled armour fares poorly at close ranges
 
* Unangled armour fares poorly at close ranges
−
* Lack of camouflage; only Urban grey and Winter
+
* Lack of camouflage, only urban grey and winter livery
 
* Machine gun port is only 50 mm
 
* Machine gun port is only 50 mm
−
* Roof armour is very thin
+
* Roof armour is very thin, can be penetrated by .50 cal rounds
 
* Engine mostly affected when hit from the side or turret
 
* Engine mostly affected when hit from the side or turret
 
* Large tracks are vulnerable to damage
 
* Large tracks are vulnerable to damage
  
 
== 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>=== In-game description ===</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 German military first encountered the [[Churchill (Family)|Churchill]] tank in August of 1942, following the disastrous Dieppe raid made by British and Canadian military elements. On August 8th, the Churchill Mk IV made its debut, as almost 60 of them had been allocated to assist the 6,000 British and Canadian troops raiding the beach. Of those, only the first 30 were deployed, and of those 30, one became trapped in its damaged landing craft, another two sank, and 11 were disabled by indirect fire and rough terrain. Despite the losses, this was the first successful use of heavy tanks in amphibious landings. In the chaotic evacuation that followed, the tanks that had deployed and survived the raid were unable to be recovered by the British and were abandoned. They, along with many other examples of British equipment, were captured by the Germans.
 
The German military first encountered the [[Churchill (Family)|Churchill]] tank in August of 1942, following the disastrous Dieppe raid made by British and Canadian military elements. On August 8th, the Churchill Mk IV made its debut, as almost 60 of them had been allocated to assist the 6,000 British and Canadian troops raiding the beach. Of those, only the first 30 were deployed, and of those 30, one became trapped in its damaged landing craft, another two sank, and 11 were disabled by indirect fire and rough terrain. Despite the losses, this was the first successful use of heavy tanks in amphibious landings. In the chaotic evacuation that followed, the tanks that had deployed and survived the raid were unable to be recovered by the British and were abandoned. They, along with many other examples of British equipment, were captured by the Germans.
  
−
These tanks were later evaluated by the Germans. Though none were damaged by direct anti-tank fire, the Germans had come to the conclusion that the tanks were virtually obsolete, too underpowered and lacking proper firepower. Two of the twenty-nine tanks captured at Dieppe were used as ''Beutepanzers'' and saw service with the German military, repainted into the German standard gray coloration and marked with prominent Iron Crosses on the sides of the turret. The rest of the captured Churchills were repurpoused for secondary combat roles, destroyed, or taken apart, with their turrets being used as improvised beach defenses at Dieppe after the raid.  
+
These tanks were later evaluated by the Germans. Though none were damaged by direct anti-tank fire, the Germans had come to the conclusion that the tanks were virtually obsolete, too underpowered and lacking proper firepower. Two of the twenty-nine tanks captured at Dieppe were used as ''Beutepanzers'' and saw service with the German military, repainted into the German standard grey colouration and marked with prominent Iron Crosses on the sides of the turret. The rest of the captured Churchills were repurposed for secondary combat roles, destroyed, or taken apart, with their turrets being used as improvised beach defences at Dieppe after the raid.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
{{Youtube
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
−
| url = 7fRkADxtNPg
+
 
−
}}''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
+
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_infanterie_kampfpanzer_churchill Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 237: Line 168:
  
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the tank;''
 
 
* ''other literature.''
 
* ''other literature.''
  
 +
{{TankManufacturer Vauxhall}}
 
{{Germany heavy tanks}}
 
{{Germany heavy tanks}}
 
{{Germany premium ground vehicles}}
 
{{Germany premium ground vehicles}}

Latest revision as of 02:02, 25 April 2024

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the premium heavy tank Pz.Kpfw. Churchill (Germany). For other versions, see Churchill (Family).
▀Pz.Kpfw. Churchill
germ_infanterie_kampfpanzer_churchill.png
GarageImage Pz.Kpfw. Churchill (Germany).jpg
ArtImage Pz.Kpfw. Churchill (Germany).png
▀Pz.Kpfw. Churchill
Germany flag.png Germany
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
4.0 4.0 4.3
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:1 750 Specs-Card-Eagle.png
Show in game

Description

The Churchill tank was an infantry tank produced by Great Britain intended for supporting an infantry assault with its armour and firepower. The Churchill tank's first action was during the disastrous Dieppe Raid in August 1942, which saw a number of them committed then lost when the Allies were unable to recover the tank during their retreat. The Germans captured these tanks and subjected them through evaluations. Their initial impressions were poor, thinking the Churchill tank as obsolete. The captured Churchills were repurposed within the Wehrmacht in roles such as Beutepanzers or shore fortifications.

Introduced in Update 1.55 "Royal Armour", the Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is a German captured Churchill Mk III that is distinguished by being painted grey (with the same tone as the Panzer IV and Panzer III) and possess white Wehrmacht markings. The Pz.Kpfw. Churchill is one of the best heavy tanks in rank III, sporting heavy frontal armour, a 6-pounder gun that is suitable for its rank, and 30 smoke grenades that are fired separately from the roof, great for covering great areas with smoke. The Churchill also has great gun depression and turret traverse, meaning it can fire at different targets very efficiently. However, the low acceleration and speed makes it a slug on the battlefield, making it difficult to manoeuvre and a large target against enemy guns. The thin roof armour also means that the tank is perfect prey to fighter-bombers and rocket attacks.

General info

Survivability and armour

Smoke grenades
Creation of a smoke screen in front of the vehicle
Armourfront / side / back
Hull89 / 76 / 51
Turret89 / 89 / 76
Crew5 people
Visibility87 %

There are very few enemies which can successfully penetrate the Churchill, although the M10 and the Achilles can quickly take care of this vehicle even at long ranges. Other tanks like the Jagdpanzer IV, the Jagdpanzer 38(t), and the Dicker Max can also make quick work of the Churchill, but only in arcade battles, as in realistic battles, they all belong in the same tree.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB30 / 3 km/h
RB and SB28 / 3 km/h
Number of gears4 forward
1 back
Weight39.0 t
Engine power
AB668 hp
RB and SB350 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB17.1 hp/t
RB and SB9.0 hp/t
Game Mode Max Speed (km/h) Weight (tons) Engine power (horsepower) Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Forward Reverse Stock Upgraded Stock Upgraded
Arcade 30 3 39 452 668 11.59 17.13
Realistic 28 3 310 350 7.95 8.97

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB1 303 Sl icon.png
RB1 330 Sl icon.png
SB1 894 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts210 000 Sl icon.png
Aces550 Ge icon.png
Research Aces790 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 100 / 140 / 150 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 154 / 154 / 154 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Mobility Protection Firepower
Mods new tank traks.png
Tracks
Mods new tank suspension.png
Suspension
Mods new tank break.png
Brake System
Mods new tank filter.png
Filters
Mods new tank transmission.png
Transmission
Mods new tank engine.png
Engine
Mods tank tool kit.png
Improved Parts
Mods extinguisher.png
Improved FPE
Mods tank reinforcement ger.png
Crew Replenishment
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Mods tank ammo.png
57mm_britain_6pdr_APC_ammo_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Mods tank ammo.png
57mm_britain_6pdr_APCBC_ammo_pack
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Mods smoke screen.png
Smoke grenade

Armaments

Main armament

57 mm 6pdr OQF Mk.V cannon
Shoulder stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in one plane while moving
Ammunition85 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
5.2 → 4.0 s
Vertical guidance-12° / 20°
Main article: 6pdr OQF Mk.V (57 mm)
57 mm 6pdr OQF Mk.V Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 85 -12°/+20° ±180° Shoulder 19.4 26.9 32.6 36.1 38.4 5.20 4.60 4.24 4.00
Realistic 14.3 16.8 20.4 22.6 24.0

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
Shot Mk.8 APC 116 111 94 76 62 50
Shot Mk.5 HV AP 115 111 93 75 60 49
Shot Mk.9 APCBC 132 127 110 91 75 63
Shell Mk.10 HE 9 9 9 9 9 9
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Shot Mk.8 APC 883 2.87 - - - 48° 63° 71°
Shot Mk.5 HV AP 891 2.8 - - - 47° 60° 65°
Shot Mk.9 APCBC 847 3.23 - - - 48° 63° 71°
Shell Mk.10 HE 655 2.72 0 0.1 590 79° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Churchill III (identical)
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
85 82 (+3) 43 (+42) 22 (+63) 5 (+80) 1 (+84) No

Notes:

  • Racks disappear after all shells in the rack have been shot or loaded.
  • Turret empty: 82 (+3) shells.

Optics

Pz.Kpfw. Churchill (Germany) Optics
Which ones Default magnification Maximum magnification
Main Gun optics x1.85 x3.5
Comparable optics Pz.IV G

Machine guns

7.92 mm BESA machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition9 450 rounds
Belt capacity225 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main article: BESA (7.92 mm)
7.92 mm BESA
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 9,350 (225) 600 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

Like its British counterpart, the Churchill can be used as a very efficient brawler with its excellent turret traverse and gun depression, and heavy frontal armour. Though in urban environments, you should be careful in case someone tries to flank your weak side and rear armour.

This tank can be effectively be played in a brawling style, going into the front lines. This tank, due to its excellent armour and gun, can even hold off an entire enemy flank with minimal backup. In city maps, be careful not to expose your side armour as it is quite weak and your engine might get damaged. With its good gun, it can be as a support tank as well, in the second line destroying tanks. Angle your armour to maximize its effectiveness. When frontally angled, even the sides will be tough to penetrate. Many tanks will struggle penetrating you. There are some tanks that you don't even need to worry at all penetrating you from the front, such as the Panzer III. Angling your armour will make you even tough against the high penetration Panzer IV F2. However, be aware of higher penetration tanks. The M10 is a worthy mention as most of the time it might be able to penetrate your armour. The far deadlier Achilles can penetrate your front with little effort. Thus, it is advised to take cover, angle, or destroy them first. Shermans are not much threat since they won't really penetrate your armour, but sometimes they do. They are easy to deal with as your 57 mm gun can punch straight through. Your 57 oddly does a lot of damage for a 57 mm gun. It can one shot Panzer III's, and sometimes Shermans if you aim correctly. Overall, the Churchill III is a very powerful Rank III vehicle that is capable of holding off an entire flank, while destroying tanks easily in quick succession.

If you are not in an up-tiered situation, you can effectively enter a battle and absorb all the enemy rounds which could've been fired at your weaker teammates and either engage the enemy with your 57 mm cannon or let your teammates return fire. Companion vehicles such as the Panzer IV F2, 8,8 cm Flak 37 Sfl. and other German vehicles possess superior firepower compared to the other country vehicles in rank III (Except for other special TDs, such as the American M10 GMC and British Achilles) and can in most cases hold their own.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Long, tough hull is easily angled
  • 90 mm turret armour is effective at medium & long range
  • Large tracks can absorb shells fired at the side
  • Fast turret traverse, easy to engage people without turning
  • 57 mm gun reloads quickly
  • Good penetration
  • Slow speed makes it easy to hit enemies after a shortstop
  • 30 individually fired smoke grenades, great for covering points and areas with smoke
  • Good gun depression
  • Has access to a low-speed stabilizer for firing on the move, pairs well with the vehicle's slow speed

Cons:

  • No HE filler for any rounds, unless hitting an ammo rack, it will require multiple shots to take the target down
  • Large target, easily spotted by bombers/fighter-bombers
  • Very poor speed, both forward and backward
  • Unangled armour fares poorly at close ranges
  • Lack of camouflage, only urban grey and winter livery
  • Machine gun port is only 50 mm
  • Roof armour is very thin, can be penetrated by .50 cal rounds
  • Engine mostly affected when hit from the side or turret
  • Large tracks are vulnerable to damage

History

The German military first encountered the Churchill tank in August of 1942, following the disastrous Dieppe raid made by British and Canadian military elements. On August 8th, the Churchill Mk IV made its debut, as almost 60 of them had been allocated to assist the 6,000 British and Canadian troops raiding the beach. Of those, only the first 30 were deployed, and of those 30, one became trapped in its damaged landing craft, another two sank, and 11 were disabled by indirect fire and rough terrain. Despite the losses, this was the first successful use of heavy tanks in amphibious landings. In the chaotic evacuation that followed, the tanks that had deployed and survived the raid were unable to be recovered by the British and were abandoned. They, along with many other examples of British equipment, were captured by the Germans.

These tanks were later evaluated by the Germans. Though none were damaged by direct anti-tank fire, the Germans had come to the conclusion that the tanks were virtually obsolete, too underpowered and lacking proper firepower. Two of the twenty-nine tanks captured at Dieppe were used as Beutepanzers and saw service with the German military, repainted into the German standard grey colouration and marked with prominent Iron Crosses on the sides of the turret. The rest of the captured Churchills were repurposed for secondary combat roles, destroyed, or taken apart, with their turrets being used as improvised beach defences at Dieppe after the raid.

Media

Skins

See also

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.

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • other literature.


Vauxhall Motors Limited
Infantry Tanks 
Tank, Infantry, Mk IV, Churchill (A22)  Churchill I · Churchill III · Churchill VII · Churchill Crocodile
Tank, Infantry, Black Prince (A43)  Black Prince
Tank Destroyers  Gun Carrier (3-in)
Captured  ▀Pz.Kpfw. Churchill

Germany heavy tanks
Tiger 1 (Henschel)  Tiger H1 · Tiger E · ␠Tiger
Tiger 1 (Porsche)  VK 45.01 (P) · Pz.Bef.Wg.VI P
Tiger 2  Tiger II (P) · Tiger II (H) · Tiger II (H) Sla.16 · Tiger II (10.5 cm Kw.K)
Super heavy tanks  Maus · E-100
Trophies 
Great Britain  ▀Pz.Kpfw. Churchill
USSR  ▀KV-IB · ▀KW I C 756 (r) · ▀KW II 754 (r)

Germany premium ground vehicles
Light tanks  Pz.II C (DAK) · Pz.Sfl.Ic · Pz.Sp.Wg.P204(f) KwK · Sd.Kfz. 140/1 · Sd.Kfz.234/1 · Ru 251 · SPz 12-3 LGS · TAM 2IP
Medium tanks  Nb.Fz. · Pz.III N · Pz.Bef.Wg.IV J · ▀M4 748 (a) · ▀T 34 747 (r) · Ersatz M10
  mKPz M47 G · Turm III · Leopard A1A1 (L/44) · Leopard 2 (PzBtl 123) · Leopard 2A4M
Heavy tanks  ▀Pz.Kpfw. Churchill · ▀KV-IB · ▀KW I C 756 (r) · ▀KW II 754 (r)
  VK 45.01 (P) · ␠Tiger · Pz.Bef.Wg.VI P · Tiger II (H) Sla.16
Tank destroyers  Sd.Kfz.234/3 · Sd.Kfz.234/4 · Sd.Kfz.251/10 · Sd.Kfz.251/22 · 15 cm Pz.W.42
  Brummbär · Panzer IV/70(A) · VFW · Bfw. Jagdpanther G1 · Elefant · 38 cm Sturmmörser

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