Difference between revisions of "Matilda Hedgehog"

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{{Specs-Card|code=uk_matilda_hedgehog}}
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{{About
 +
| about = British heavy tank '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
 +
| link = Matilda (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=uk_matilda_hedgehog
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 +
|market=items_Matilda Hedgehog (Britain)
 +
}}
  
 
== 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]]
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The '''Matilda Hedgehog''' was an Australian late-war experiment of the early but legendary Matilda infantry tank. Developed in early 1944, it was equipped with the Hedgehog anti-submarine spigot mortar. The tank was needed after the Australian Forces encountered difficulties dealing with Japanese bunkers in the jungles of the Asian front. The Matilda II was chosen to be the carrier of this weapon since it was already a combat proven infantry tank. However, testing of the new design went too far, even considering not using the Matilda and instead using the M3 Lee, thus the war ended before the tank was ready for frontline service.
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{{Break}} -->
+
 
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} British heavy tank {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update "New Power"]] as a reward for [[Battle Pass: Season I]].
+
It was introduced during [[Update "New Power"]] as a reward for [[Battle Pass: Season I]]. The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a very interesting design, the most notable difference from other Matildas is the presence of a new type of armament in the rear; a Spigot system fitted with Hedgehog mortars. This mortar was commonly used in naval warfare as an anti-submarine weapon and as such is very lethal weaponry if used correctly against tanks. One of the flaws of the Matilda Hedgehog over other variants is the reduced combat readiness and versatility. This is because the Hedgehog mortar is a situational and limited weapon in tank warfare. The vehicle also loses its smoke grenade launchers and receives a large weak spot in its rear, since the Hedgehog launcher acts as a large unprotected ammo rack.
  
 
== 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? If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the 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.'' -->
 +
The uneven and sloped armour protection is generally useful versus most low to medium calibre (40-75 mm) guns in the rank; the farther from the target makes it better for the armour. The irregular front and sloped side armour configuration on the turret makes it perfect to bounce some poorly aimed shots, yet some areas are not sloped at all and can be easily penetrated by shells of over 80 mm of penetration in close ranges. This armour has not changed drastically since the Matilda III, however, some noteworthy areas did receive an increase in protection: the turret ring received an additional armour plate of 40 mm. Extended from the front to the sides and partially reaching the back of the turret ring area. Effectively concealing a good portion of the previously vulnerable turret ring. This armour acts also as spaced armour since the shell needs to penetrate the first plate and then will likely shatter before colliding with the turret ring armour. Flanking tanks like the [[Sd.Kfz.234/2]] will be troubled when firing at this area from the sides or the rear, yet will be easier to just penetrate the turret side armour. Anti-tank assault guns like the [[StuG III F]] will struggle equally when firing at the turret ring. The area under the gun mantlet remains only protected with a sloped armour prone to bounce shells.
 +
 
 +
The commander cupola has been lowered. This reduces effectively the previously noticeable large weak spot on the turret of the Matilda III. While the 75 mm of armour remains unchanged, the flatter cupola is difficult to penetrate.
 +
 
 +
Aside from these changes, minor structural armour has been added as fenders and the structure for the Hedgehog mortar system in the rear. This armour is barely effective in countering armour-piercing shells, and might just protect versus powerful HE shells as those on the [[15cm sIG 33 B Sfl]].
 +
 
 +
{{Notice|Increasing the "Vitality" feature of the tank crew can increase survivability against spalling and shrapnel.}}
  
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
 
'''Armour type:''' <!-- The types of armour present on the vehicle and their general locations -->
Line 23: Line 40:
 
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
 
| Turret || ___ - ___ mm ''Turret front'' <br> ___ mm ''Gun mantlet'' || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm || ___ - ___ mm
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Cupola || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm || ___ mm
+
| Cupola || 75 mm ''All-around'' <br>25 mm ''Base'' || 75 mm <br> 25 mm ''Base'' || 75 mm <br> 25 mm ''Base'' || 75 mm
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
'''Notes:''' <!-- Any additional notes which the user needs to be aware of -->
+
'''Notes:'''
−
<!-- Example: * Suspension wheels are 20 mm thick, tracks are 30 mm thick, and torsion bars are 60 mm thick. -->
+
 
 +
* Unlike the Matilda III, the cupola roof is 75 mm thick
 +
* The Hedgehog launcher structure is 5 mm thick
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 +
{{Specs-Tank-Mobility}}
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.'' -->
  
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=294|rbMinHp=168}}
 
{{tankMobility|abMinHp=294|rbMinHp=168}}
 +
With a rounded heavyweight of over 27 tons, the Matilda isn't the fastest vehicle, but one of the heaviest. However, the tank has a double Leyland diesel powerplant that provides 190 HP and is just enough to boost the tank through regular terrain. Maps with lots of slopes and rocks will be difficult to overcome because of the outpowered engine; is best to avoid intricate shortcuts since if stuck, the Matilda won't be able to get out - Maps like [[Karelia (Ground Forces)|Karelia]] or [[Stalingrad (Ground Forces)|Stalingrad Factory]].
 +
 +
Fortunately because of the weight, in flat ground, the vehicle keeps a lot of traction and can reach top speed in approximately 17 seconds. This slow top speed suits Matilda's gun stabilization, effectively firing on the move while on cruise gear 1. As most British tanks on the rank, the reverse leaves a lot to desire. Still, the lack of any smoke cover means using the reverse gearbox is the only way to effectively retreat from frontal engagements without angling. The sluggish nature of the Matilda also sets up the tank for ambushes.
 +
 +
=== 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|QF 2-pounder (40 mm)}}
 
{{main|QF 2-pounder (40 mm)}}
 +
With an average reload of 3.6 seconds, the 40 mm 2-pounder remains a threat for most tanks at the rank. The also decent penetration values and ballistics make Matilda a capable heavy tank in frontal engagements. Despite the effectiveness of the gun, the small calibre will usually require a follow-up shot to knock out a tank.
 +
 +
The recommended ammunition is the Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T. Because of the overall better penetration values and ballistics. With the auxiliary ammo being either the Shell Mk.2 or the Shell Mk.1 AP/T to counter light targets as anti-air trucks or exposed crew, which are quite common at the rank.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
Line 57: Line 88:
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:QF 2-pounder (40 mm)/Ammunition|Shot Mk.1 AP/T, Shell Mk.2, Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T, Shot Mk.1 APHV/T, Shell Mk.1 AP/T}}
−
! 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.1 AP/T || AP || 72 || 68 || 52 || 37 || 27 || 19
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shell Mk.2 || HE || 4 || 4 || 4 || 4 || 4 || 4
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T || APCBC || 89 || 86 || 77 || 66 || 57 || 50
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.1 APHV/T || AP || 80 || 75 || 58 || 41 || 30 || 21
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shell Mk.1 AP/T || APHE || 66 || 62 || 49 || 36 || 26 || 20
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| 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.1 AP/T || AP || 792 || 1.08 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shell Mk.2 || HE || 687 || 1.34 || 0 || 0.1 || 85 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T || APCBC || 792 || 1.24 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 48° || 63° || 71°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shot Mk.1 APHV/T || AP || 853 || 1.08 || N/A || N/A || N/A || 47° || 60° || 65°
 
−
|-
 
−
| Shell Mk.1 AP/T || APHE || 792 || 1.08 || 1.2 || 9 || 20.9 || 47° || 60° || 65°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_Matilda_III.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the Matilda III (identical).]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.5.1.106''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 115: Line 102:
 
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
! 5th<br>rack empty
 
! 6th<br>rack empty
 
! 6th<br>rack empty
 +
! 7th<br>rack empty
 +
! 8th<br>rack empty
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''93''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''93''' || 86&nbsp;''(+7)'' || 78&nbsp;''(+15)'' || 63&nbsp;''(+30)'' || 52&nbsp;''(+41)'' || 40&nbsp;''(+53)'' || 28&nbsp;''(+65)'' || 14&nbsp;''(+79)'' || 0&nbsp;''(+93)'' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
 +
 +
* Racks disappear after you've fired all shells in the rack.
 +
* Turret empty: 52&nbsp;''(+41)'' shells.
  
 
=== 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|Hedgehog}}
 
{{main|Hedgehog}}
 +
Baptized by its name, the Matilda Hedgehog features an experimental spigot mortar system launching Hedgehog depth charges. These mortars can be widely found in ships like the [[Town (L45)|Town class]] because they were designed for anti-submarine warfare.
 +
 +
The Hedgehog mortar now placed behind the Matilda offers lethal explosive ordnance. Yet the death from above by the Hedgehog will be challenging to accomplish. Firstly, the Hedgehog is ''only effective in a default distance of 190 m or less''. The launcher can be raised by aiming upward, lowering the horizontal distance the mortar will travel from the tank. Secondly, the mortars will be launched individually from right to left. Yet they will fall quite close to each other. Depending on the intentions of the player, they might turn the hull while deploying the Hedgehog, to spread the fire.  Lastly, there is available a limited number of mortars (7) and the eventual reload of more inside a capture point will be tediously slow and dangerous. This means the mortar is likely to be a piece of single-use equipment. The mortar rack is also poorly shielded and vulnerable to machine gun fire. If hit, the mortars will likely detonate and disable all of them.
 +
 +
In more positive regards, a single hit of the mortar atop enemy tanks will be destructive. Acting as a small bomb, the mortar will be effective versus light or unarmoured vehicles as half-tracks and open-top vehicles. Armour thickness will not be an issue, since the 80 mm of penetration are enough to take down most tanks in the rank.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="5" | [[Hedgehog]]
+
! colspan="4" | [[Hedgehog]]
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
 
! Capacity !! Vertical !! Horizontal !! Stabilizer
Line 136: Line 135:
  
 
==== Ammunition ====
 
==== Ammunition ====
−
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
+
{{:Hedgehog/Ammunition|Hedgehog projectile}}
−
! 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
 
−
|-
 
−
| Hedgehog projectile || HE || 80 || 80 || 80 || 80 || 80 || 80
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
{| 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%
 
−
|-
 
−
| Hedgehog projectile || HE || 45 || 29.5 || 0 || 0.1 || 25,280 || 79° || 80° || 81°
 
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
  
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
 
==== [[Ammo racks]] ====
−
<!-- [[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]] -->
+
[[File:Ammoracks_{{PAGENAME}}_secondary.png|right|thumb|x250px|[[Ammo racks]] of the {{PAGENAME}}]]
−
<!-- '''Last updated:''' -->
+
<!-- '''Last updated: 2.5.1.106''' -->
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Full<br>ammo
 
! Full<br>ammo
−
! 1st<br>rack empty
 
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
! Visual<br>discrepancy
 
|-
 
|-
−
| '''7''' || __&nbsp;''(+__)'' || __
+
| '''7''' || No
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
'''Notes:'''
 +
 +
* It is not possible to select how many mortar projectiles to bring into battle.
 +
* Missiles are fired from right to left when looking from behind (see image).
  
 
=== 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|BESA (7.92 mm)}}
 
{{main|BESA (7.92 mm)}}
 +
Albeit relegated to obstacle clearing and last resort anti-air armament, the machine gun can be handy when fighting enemies with exposed crew members, e.g, the [[Sd.Kfz. 6/2]], [[CCKW 353 (M45)]], [[Lvtdgb m/40]] or [[ZiS-30]].
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
Line 189: Line 165:
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
! Mount !! Capacity (Belt) !! Fire rate !! Vertical !! Horizontal
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Coaxial || 4,000 (225) || 600 || N/A || N/A
+
| Coaxial || 4,050 (225) || 600 || N/A || N/A
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
== 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).'' -->
 +
Matilda should be played as a support tank. While is unlike to be the first tank in the line, Matilda Hedgehog should advance to take place in the vanguard or rearguard of the joint attacking force. Pushing slowly towards the enemy positions with support from team members; halt or reduce the speed to fire at any target that reveals itself. When moving and firing with the stabilizer, Matilda's armour weakness is not only harder to pinpoint, but more prone to bouncing shells. Additionally, players should keep in mind the importance of smart positioning and proximity to allies since if ambushed by the sides or the rear, the Matilda will likely be eliminated.
 +
 
 +
When defending, find distance away from choke points near vital areas and blast enemies as they try to enter; the excellent depression will be handy during these defensive stances. Procure to keep a safe distance from the enemy to maximise the effectiveness of the armour so Matilda will be very hard to destroy.
  
−
=== Modules ===
+
Close-distance fighting is ill-advised and tricky as opponents will be able to easily penetrate the front armour or find those weak points; such as the loaded Hedgehog mortar rack in the rear. Therefore, open and vast maps are the forte for Matilda's armour and main gun. Although this is contradictory to the novelty of this variant: the Hedgehog mortar.
−
{| class="wikitable"
+
 
−
! Tier
+
Considering the launching range of the Hedgehog is quite limited, a possible tactic to deliver a mortar rain more effectively is to reach capture zones within 190 m away then fire the mortars if the enemy is in the vicinity or inside the perimeter of the zone. This is effective on urban maps like [[Eastern Europe (Ground Forces)|Eastern Europe]] and [[Berlin (Ground Forces)|Berlin]], but on vast areas as those on maps like [[Maginot Line (Ground Forces)|Maginot]], the Hedgehog becomes quite ineffective.
−
! colspan="2" | Mobility
+
 
−
! Protection
+
Players should decide depending on the map if it is reasonable and useful to load the Hedgehog mortars. Also acknowledging the very capable 40 mm QF gun remains the principal weapon.
−
! colspan="2" | Firepower
+
 
−
|-
+
=== Enemies worth noting ===
−
| I
+
Opponents that deserve extra attention are the tank destroyers. Most tank destroyers at the rank were designed exactly to counter the heavy frontal armour of tanks like the Matilda.
−
| Tracks
+
 
−
|
+
==== Germany ▀ ====
−
| Parts
+
The two German Marders carry a gun that can easily knock you out at long range, especially the [[Marder III H|Marder III (H)]], but those have thin armour, so use that to your advantage. The more armoured German TD, the StuG III, is even more dangerous. The [[StuG III A]] carry the [[KwK37 (75 mm)|short 75 mm]] that can fire high-penetrating HEAT rounds while its front armour can resist the 2-pounder's shots from a longer distance. The [[StuG III F]] is a bigger problem with its [[StuK40 L43 (75 mm)|longer 75 mm gun]] and thicker armour, but its higher battle rating should make this an uncommon sight. The Matilda will have a hard time fighting the StuGs due to the front armour and inability to manoeuvre to hit the side armour, thus it would be better to leave that to more manoeuvrable team members.
−
| Horizontal Drive
+
 
−
| Shell Mk.1 AP/T
+
==== Medium tanks ====
−
|-
+
Other tanks to worry about are the more common medium tanks each nation carries from the [[M4A1|M4 Shermans]], [[Pz.IV F2|Panzer IVs]], and [[T-34 (1941)|T-34s]]. These medium tanks have frontal armour able to resist Matilda's 2-pounder rounds and easily outmanoeuvre it as well. The most noteworthy tank to worry about is the Panzer IV with the [[KwK40 L43 (75 mm)|long 75 mm guns]], which can easily destroy your frontal armour.
−
| II
+
 
−
| Suspension
+
=== Counter tactics ===
−
| Brake System
+
Unlike Matilda III, this tank has a Hedgehog 183 mm launcher on its back. While it can be useful against clusters of unmoving vehicles, it is inaccurate and takes time or skills to get used to. It also makes the Matilda Hedgehog much more vulnerable to flanking attacks since the backwards firing arc of the 40 mm gun is now limited and blinded by the mortar structure.
−
| FPE
+
 
−
| Adjustment of Fire
+
The launcher can be shot easily and results in an ammo rack explosion, possibly getting the tank destroyed even by SPAA vehicles or more commonly, burning off most Hedgehog mortars. If impossible to flank, an easy area to target is the thin armour located on each extremity of the lower front glacis (on either side of the driver's position).
−
| Shot Mk.1 APHV/T
 
−
|-
 
−
| III
 
−
| Filters
 
−
|
 
−
| Crew Replenishment
 
−
| Elevation Mechanism
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
| IV
 
−
| Transmission
 
−
| Engine
 
−
|
 
−
| Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T
 
−
|
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="6" | 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:'''
  
−
* Retains the same small size and excellent armor from its unmodified version
+
* Identical 40 mm gun to [[Matilda III]], meaning same excellent gun depression, rate of fire and armour penetration
−
* Identical gun to its predecessor, meaning same handling
+
* Hedgehogs are lethal versus clusters of immobile or light vehicles; such as those in close quarters battles
−
* Rocket launcher lethal versus clusters of unmoving vehicles
+
* Frontal armour weak spots as the commander's cupola and the turret ring have been reinforced
 +
* An empty Hedgehog launcher doubles as rear protection for the turret
 +
 
 +
'''Cons:'''
  
−
*
+
* Poor mobility on all terrains, something retained from its predecessor, the [[Matilda III]]
 +
* Hedgehog launcher cannot be stowed or independently aimed; this means some corrections may be needed when firing
 +
* Tank layout is identical to the Matilda III, but rearward firing arc is limited by the Hedgehog launcher mounting
 +
* No smoke grenades
 +
* The launcher acts as an external ammunition rack, meaning even machine gun fire and artillery shrapnel can cause a detonation
  
−
'''Cons:'''
+
== History ==
 +
<!-- ''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).'' -->
 +
Although the Royal Australian Armoured Corps (RAAC) had been developing their own tanks, there were also numbers of British tanks in RAAC service, and the A12 Matilda II was among them; around 440 Matilda IIs were in RAAC service from 1942 all the way to the last days of WWII.
  
−
* Poor mobility on and offroad, something retained from its predecessor the Matilda III
+
In the European theatre, the Matilda II was absolutely obsolete due to its design philosophy of being an infantry tank; however, this would not be the case for the Pacific theatre where neither IJA or IJN marines had the required firepower to take the Matilda out without resorting to kamikaze attacks, traps, or bombing runs. A common problem in the Pacific theatre was the existence of Japanese fortifications which could level extensive firepower against the attacking Allied troops, as well as extensive trench and tunnel networks; this called for a durable vehicle which could deliver devastating offense upon such infrastructure.
−
* Keeps the same anemic 40mm gun
 
−
* Hedgehog launcher is inaccurate against single targets and fires its shells in an arcing trajectory, requiring significant leading
 
−
* Retains the same cramped crew positions as the unmodified Matilda III
 
  
−
*
+
An unusual idea was proposed: a tank with a "Hedgehog" ASW launcher installed at the rear by the engine deck to demolish fortifications from a safe distance. The result of this idea was the Matilda Hedgehog. While field tests on mainland Australia proved successful, by the time it would have been commissioned in RAAC service, the war had ended, thus leaving the tank useless.
  
−
== History ==
+
One of six modified tanks likely intended to be used by the 6th Divisional Calvary Regiment of RAAC, numbered 35357 and nicknamed "Bullpup", is now displayed at the RAAC Memorial and Army Tank Museum at Puckapunyal, Victoria.
−
''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).''
 
  
 
== 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.'' -->
−
[[File:Matilda Hedgehog Devblog Image 001.jpg|none|thumb|356x356px|Matilda Hedgehog devblog image.]]
+
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=uk_matilda_hedgehog Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Images
 +
<gallery mode="packed-hover" heights="150">
 +
Image:Matilda Hedgehog Devblog Image 001.jpg|<small>Matilda Hedgehog devblog image.</small>
 +
</gallery>
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|yuMkZYEs1H4|'''Matilda Hedgehog - Getting Gaijined Again [War Thunder]''' - ''Napalmratte''|dxCO6tn53jY|'''Matilda Hedgehog Very Quick Mortar Tutorial''' - ''PhantomRiderWT''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 269: Line 245:
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
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''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
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<!-- ''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/6967-special-battle-pass-in-war-thunder-en|[Special] Battle Pass in War Thunder!]]
−
* ''other literature.''
 
  
 
{{Britain heavy tanks}}
 
{{Britain heavy tanks}}
 
{{Britain premium ground vehicles}}
 
{{Britain premium ground vehicles}}

Latest revision as of 16:42, 29 November 2023

Rank VII | Premium | Golden Eagles
Challenger DS Pack
This page is about the British heavy tank Matilda Hedgehog. For other versions, see Matilda (Family).
Matilda Hedgehog
uk_matilda_hedgehog.png
GarageImage Matilda Hedgehog.jpg
ArtImage Matilda Hedgehog.png
Matilda Hedgehog
Britain flag.png Britain
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
2.7 2.7 2.7
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
MARKET

Description

The Matilda Hedgehog was an Australian late-war experiment of the early but legendary Matilda infantry tank. Developed in early 1944, it was equipped with the Hedgehog anti-submarine spigot mortar. The tank was needed after the Australian Forces encountered difficulties dealing with Japanese bunkers in the jungles of the Asian front. The Matilda II was chosen to be the carrier of this weapon since it was already a combat proven infantry tank. However, testing of the new design went too far, even considering not using the Matilda and instead using the M3 Lee, thus the war ended before the tank was ready for frontline service.

It was introduced during Update "New Power" as a reward for Battle Pass: Season I. The Matilda Hedgehog is a very interesting design, the most notable difference from other Matildas is the presence of a new type of armament in the rear; a Spigot system fitted with Hedgehog mortars. This mortar was commonly used in naval warfare as an anti-submarine weapon and as such is very lethal weaponry if used correctly against tanks. One of the flaws of the Matilda Hedgehog over other variants is the reduced combat readiness and versatility. This is because the Hedgehog mortar is a situational and limited weapon in tank warfare. The vehicle also loses its smoke grenade launchers and receives a large weak spot in its rear, since the Hedgehog launcher acts as a large unprotected ammo rack.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Hull75 / 70 / 55
Turret75 / 75 / 75
Crew4 people
Visibility84 %

The uneven and sloped armour protection is generally useful versus most low to medium calibre (40-75 mm) guns in the rank; the farther from the target makes it better for the armour. The irregular front and sloped side armour configuration on the turret makes it perfect to bounce some poorly aimed shots, yet some areas are not sloped at all and can be easily penetrated by shells of over 80 mm of penetration in close ranges. This armour has not changed drastically since the Matilda III, however, some noteworthy areas did receive an increase in protection: the turret ring received an additional armour plate of 40 mm. Extended from the front to the sides and partially reaching the back of the turret ring area. Effectively concealing a good portion of the previously vulnerable turret ring. This armour acts also as spaced armour since the shell needs to penetrate the first plate and then will likely shatter before colliding with the turret ring armour. Flanking tanks like the Sd.Kfz.234/2 will be troubled when firing at this area from the sides or the rear, yet will be easier to just penetrate the turret side armour. Anti-tank assault guns like the StuG III F will struggle equally when firing at the turret ring. The area under the gun mantlet remains only protected with a sloped armour prone to bounce shells.

The commander cupola has been lowered. This reduces effectively the previously noticeable large weak spot on the turret of the Matilda III. While the 75 mm of armour remains unchanged, the flatter cupola is difficult to penetrate.

Aside from these changes, minor structural armour has been added as fenders and the structure for the Hedgehog mortar system in the rear. This armour is barely effective in countering armour-piercing shells, and might just protect versus powerful HE shells as those on the 15cm sIG 33 B Sfl.

Msg-info.png Increasing the "Vitality" feature of the tank crew can increase survivability against spalling and shrapnel.

Armour type:

Armour Front (Slope angle) Sides Rear Roof
Hull ___ mm ___ mm Top
___ mm Bottom 		___ mm ___ - ___ mm
Turret ___ - ___ mm Turret front
___ mm Gun mantlet 		___ - ___ mm ___ - ___ mm ___ - ___ mm
Cupola 75 mm All-around
25 mm Base 		75 mm
25 mm Base 		75 mm
25 mm Base 		75 mm

Notes:

  • Unlike the Matilda III, the cupola roof is 75 mm thick
  • The Hedgehog launcher structure is 5 mm thick

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB26 / 5 km/h
RB and SB24 / 4 km/h
Number of gears6 forward
1 back
Weight27.3 t
Engine power
AB363 hp
RB and SB190 hp
Power-to-weight ratio
AB13.3 hp/t
RB and SB7.0 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 26 5 27.3 294 363 10.77 13.3
Realistic 24 4 168 190 6.15 6.96

With a rounded heavyweight of over 27 tons, the Matilda isn't the fastest vehicle, but one of the heaviest. However, the tank has a double Leyland diesel powerplant that provides 190 HP and is just enough to boost the tank through regular terrain. Maps with lots of slopes and rocks will be difficult to overcome because of the outpowered engine; is best to avoid intricate shortcuts since if stuck, the Matilda won't be able to get out - Maps like Karelia or Stalingrad Factory.

Fortunately because of the weight, in flat ground, the vehicle keeps a lot of traction and can reach top speed in approximately 17 seconds. This slow top speed suits Matilda's gun stabilization, effectively firing on the move while on cruise gear 1. As most British tanks on the rank, the reverse leaves a lot to desire. Still, the lack of any smoke cover means using the reverse gearbox is the only way to effectively retreat from frontal engagements without angling. The sluggish nature of the Matilda also sets up the tank for ambushes.

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB876 Sl icon.png
RB645 Sl icon.png
SB1 428 Sl icon.png
Crew training3 400 Sl icon.png
Experts23 000 Sl icon.png
Aces160 Ge icon.png
Research Aces380 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 40 / 60 / 80 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 118 / 118 / 118 % 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 uk.png
Crew Replenishment
Mods new tank horizontal aiming.png
Horizontal Drive
Mods tank ammo.png
40mm_uk_2pdr_APHV_ammo_pack
Mods tank cannon.png
Adjustment of Fire
Mods tank ammo.png
40mm_uk_2pdr_APHE_ammo_pack
Mods new tank vertical aiming.png
Elevation Mechanism
Mods tank ammo.png
40mm_uk_2pdr_APCBC_ammo_pack

Armaments

Main armament

40 mm QF 2-pounder cannon
Shoulder stabilizer
Reduces the swing of the gun in one plane while moving
Ammunition93 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
3.6 → 2.8 s
Vertical guidance-20° / 20°
Horizontal guidance-150° / 150°
Main article: QF 2-pounder (40 mm)

With an average reload of 3.6 seconds, the 40 mm 2-pounder remains a threat for most tanks at the rank. The also decent penetration values and ballistics make Matilda a capable heavy tank in frontal engagements. Despite the effectiveness of the gun, the small calibre will usually require a follow-up shot to knock out a tank.

The recommended ammunition is the Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T. Because of the overall better penetration values and ballistics. With the auxiliary ammo being either the Shell Mk.2 or the Shell Mk.1 AP/T to counter light targets as anti-air trucks or exposed crew, which are quite common at the rank.

40 mm QF 2-pounder Turret rotation speed (°/s) Reloading rate (seconds)
Mode Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer Stock Upgraded Full Expert Aced Stock Full Expert Aced
Arcade 93 ±20° ±150° Vertical 16.2 22.4 27.2 30.1 32.0 3.64 3.22 2.97 2.80
Realistic 11.9 14.0 17.0 18.8 20.0

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.1 AP/T AP 72 68 52 37 27 19
Shell Mk.2 HE 9 8 7 6 6 5
Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T APCBC 89 86 77 66 57 50
Shot Mk.1 APHV/T AP 80 75 58 41 30 21
Shell Mk.1 AP/T APHE 66 62 49 36 26 20
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%
Shot Mk.1 AP/T AP 792 1.08 - - - 47° 60° 65°
Shell Mk.2 HE 687 1.34 0.1 0.1 85 79° 80° 81°
Shot Mk.IXB APCBC/T APCBC 792 1.24 - - - 48° 63° 71°
Shot Mk.1 APHV/T AP 853 1.08 - - - 47° 60° 65°
Shell Mk.1 AP/T APHE 792 1.08 1.2 9 20.9 47° 60° 65°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Matilda III (identical).
Full
ammo 		1st
rack empty 		2nd
rack empty 		3rd
rack empty 		4th
rack empty 		5th
rack empty 		6th
rack empty 		7th
rack empty 		8th
rack empty 		Visual
discrepancy
93 86 (+7) 78 (+15) 63 (+30) 52 (+41) 40 (+53) 28 (+65) 14 (+79) 0 (+93) No

Notes:

  • Racks disappear after you've fired all shells in the rack.
  • Turret empty: 52 (+41) shells.

Additional armament

Hedgehog
Ammunition7 rounds
Belt capacity7 rounds
Fire rate90 shots/min
Vertical guidance30° / 45°
Main article: Hedgehog

Baptized by its name, the Matilda Hedgehog features an experimental spigot mortar system launching Hedgehog depth charges. These mortars can be widely found in ships like the Town class because they were designed for anti-submarine warfare.

The Hedgehog mortar now placed behind the Matilda offers lethal explosive ordnance. Yet the death from above by the Hedgehog will be challenging to accomplish. Firstly, the Hedgehog is only effective in a default distance of 190 m or less. The launcher can be raised by aiming upward, lowering the horizontal distance the mortar will travel from the tank. Secondly, the mortars will be launched individually from right to left. Yet they will fall quite close to each other. Depending on the intentions of the player, they might turn the hull while deploying the Hedgehog, to spread the fire. Lastly, there is available a limited number of mortars (7) and the eventual reload of more inside a capture point will be tediously slow and dangerous. This means the mortar is likely to be a piece of single-use equipment. The mortar rack is also poorly shielded and vulnerable to machine gun fire. If hit, the mortars will likely detonate and disable all of them.

In more positive regards, a single hit of the mortar atop enemy tanks will be destructive. Acting as a small bomb, the mortar will be effective versus light or unarmoured vehicles as half-tracks and open-top vehicles. Armour thickness will not be an issue, since the 80 mm of penetration are enough to take down most tanks in the rank.

Hedgehog
Capacity Vertical Horizontal Stabilizer
7 +30°/+45° 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
Hedgehog projectile Rocket 65 65 65 65 65 65
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (kg) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Hedgehog projectile Rocket 340 29.5 0 0.1 25.28 79° 80° 81°

Ammo racks

Ammo racks of the Matilda Hedgehog
Full
ammo 		Visual
discrepancy
7 No

Notes:

  • It is not possible to select how many mortar projectiles to bring into battle.
  • Missiles are fired from right to left when looking from behind (see image).

Machine guns

7.92 mm BESA machine gun (coaxial)
Ammunition4 050 rounds
Belt capacity225 rounds
Reloadbasic crew → aces
10.4 → 8.0 s
Fire rate600 shots/min
Main article: BESA (7.92 mm)

Albeit relegated to obstacle clearing and last resort anti-air armament, the machine gun can be handy when fighting enemies with exposed crew members, e.g, the Sd.Kfz. 6/2, CCKW 353 (M45), Lvtdgb m/40 or ZiS-30.

7.92 mm BESA
Mount Capacity (Belt) Fire rate Vertical Horizontal
Coaxial 4,050 (225) 600 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

Matilda should be played as a support tank. While is unlike to be the first tank in the line, Matilda Hedgehog should advance to take place in the vanguard or rearguard of the joint attacking force. Pushing slowly towards the enemy positions with support from team members; halt or reduce the speed to fire at any target that reveals itself. When moving and firing with the stabilizer, Matilda's armour weakness is not only harder to pinpoint, but more prone to bouncing shells. Additionally, players should keep in mind the importance of smart positioning and proximity to allies since if ambushed by the sides or the rear, the Matilda will likely be eliminated.

When defending, find distance away from choke points near vital areas and blast enemies as they try to enter; the excellent depression will be handy during these defensive stances. Procure to keep a safe distance from the enemy to maximise the effectiveness of the armour so Matilda will be very hard to destroy.

Close-distance fighting is ill-advised and tricky as opponents will be able to easily penetrate the front armour or find those weak points; such as the loaded Hedgehog mortar rack in the rear. Therefore, open and vast maps are the forte for Matilda's armour and main gun. Although this is contradictory to the novelty of this variant: the Hedgehog mortar.

Considering the launching range of the Hedgehog is quite limited, a possible tactic to deliver a mortar rain more effectively is to reach capture zones within 190 m away then fire the mortars if the enemy is in the vicinity or inside the perimeter of the zone. This is effective on urban maps like Eastern Europe and Berlin, but on vast areas as those on maps like Maginot, the Hedgehog becomes quite ineffective.

Players should decide depending on the map if it is reasonable and useful to load the Hedgehog mortars. Also acknowledging the very capable 40 mm QF gun remains the principal weapon.

Enemies worth noting

Opponents that deserve extra attention are the tank destroyers. Most tank destroyers at the rank were designed exactly to counter the heavy frontal armour of tanks like the Matilda.

Germany ▀

The two German Marders carry a gun that can easily knock you out at long range, especially the Marder III (H), but those have thin armour, so use that to your advantage. The more armoured German TD, the StuG III, is even more dangerous. The StuG III A carry the short 75 mm that can fire high-penetrating HEAT rounds while its front armour can resist the 2-pounder's shots from a longer distance. The StuG III F is a bigger problem with its longer 75 mm gun and thicker armour, but its higher battle rating should make this an uncommon sight. The Matilda will have a hard time fighting the StuGs due to the front armour and inability to manoeuvre to hit the side armour, thus it would be better to leave that to more manoeuvrable team members.

Medium tanks

Other tanks to worry about are the more common medium tanks each nation carries from the M4 Shermans, Panzer IVs, and T-34s. These medium tanks have frontal armour able to resist Matilda's 2-pounder rounds and easily outmanoeuvre it as well. The most noteworthy tank to worry about is the Panzer IV with the long 75 mm guns, which can easily destroy your frontal armour.

Counter tactics

Unlike Matilda III, this tank has a Hedgehog 183 mm launcher on its back. While it can be useful against clusters of unmoving vehicles, it is inaccurate and takes time or skills to get used to. It also makes the Matilda Hedgehog much more vulnerable to flanking attacks since the backwards firing arc of the 40 mm gun is now limited and blinded by the mortar structure.

The launcher can be shot easily and results in an ammo rack explosion, possibly getting the tank destroyed even by SPAA vehicles or more commonly, burning off most Hedgehog mortars. If impossible to flank, an easy area to target is the thin armour located on each extremity of the lower front glacis (on either side of the driver's position).

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Identical 40 mm gun to Matilda III, meaning same excellent gun depression, rate of fire and armour penetration
  • Hedgehogs are lethal versus clusters of immobile or light vehicles; such as those in close quarters battles
  • Frontal armour weak spots as the commander's cupola and the turret ring have been reinforced
  • An empty Hedgehog launcher doubles as rear protection for the turret

Cons:

  • Poor mobility on all terrains, something retained from its predecessor, the Matilda III
  • Hedgehog launcher cannot be stowed or independently aimed; this means some corrections may be needed when firing
  • Tank layout is identical to the Matilda III, but rearward firing arc is limited by the Hedgehog launcher mounting
  • No smoke grenades
  • The launcher acts as an external ammunition rack, meaning even machine gun fire and artillery shrapnel can cause a detonation

History

Although the Royal Australian Armoured Corps (RAAC) had been developing their own tanks, there were also numbers of British tanks in RAAC service, and the A12 Matilda II was among them; around 440 Matilda IIs were in RAAC service from 1942 all the way to the last days of WWII.

In the European theatre, the Matilda II was absolutely obsolete due to its design philosophy of being an infantry tank; however, this would not be the case for the Pacific theatre where neither IJA or IJN marines had the required firepower to take the Matilda out without resorting to kamikaze attacks, traps, or bombing runs. A common problem in the Pacific theatre was the existence of Japanese fortifications which could level extensive firepower against the attacking Allied troops, as well as extensive trench and tunnel networks; this called for a durable vehicle which could deliver devastating offense upon such infrastructure.

An unusual idea was proposed: a tank with a "Hedgehog" ASW launcher installed at the rear by the engine deck to demolish fortifications from a safe distance. The result of this idea was the Matilda Hedgehog. While field tests on mainland Australia proved successful, by the time it would have been commissioned in RAAC service, the war had ended, thus leaving the tank useless.

One of six modified tanks likely intended to be used by the 6th Divisional Calvary Regiment of RAAC, numbered 35357 and nicknamed "Bullpup", is now displayed at the RAAC Memorial and Army Tank Museum at Puckapunyal, Victoria.

Media

Skins
Images

  • Matilda Hedgehog devblog image.

Videos
Matilda Hedgehog - Getting Gaijined Again [War Thunder] - Napalmratte
Matilda Hedgehog Very Quick Mortar Tutorial - PhantomRiderWT

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


Britain heavy tanks
Matilda  Matilda III · Matilda Hedgehog
Churchill  Churchill I · Churchill III · Churchill VII · Churchill Crocodile · Churchill NA75 · Black Prince
Post-war  Caernarvon · Conqueror
Other  Independent · Excelsior · TOG II

Britain premium ground vehicles
Light tanks  A13 Mk I (3rd R.T.R.) · A13 Mk II 1939 · AEC Mk II · Crusader "The Saint" · Rooikat 105
Medium tanks  A.C.I · Grant I · Cromwell V (RP-3) · Sherman IC "Trzyniec" · A.C.IV · Comet I "Iron Duke IV"
  Centurion Mk.2 · ▄Strv 81 (RB 52) · Centurion Mk.5 AVRE · Centurion Mk.5/1 · ▄Sho't Kal Dalet · Centurion Action X
  Vijayanta · Khalid · Challenger DS · Challenger 2 OES
Heavy tanks  Independent · Matilda Hedgehog · Excelsior · TOG II · Churchill Crocodile · Black Prince
Tank destroyers  Alecto I · Achilles (65 Rg.) · QF 3.7 Ram

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