Difference between revisions of "XF5F"

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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=xf5f
 
|code=xf5f
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
+
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
 
|cockpit=cockpit_xf5f.jpg
 
|cockpit=cockpit_xf5f.jpg
 
|market=XF5F Skyrocket
 
|market=XF5F Skyrocket
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American twin-engine fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.37]].
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} American twin-engine fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.37]].
  
−
The XF5F Skyrocket is an oddity. Its lightweight and underwhelming armament aren't what you'd expect from a twin-engine fighter, but neither is its surprising manoeuvrability. Indeed, it is among the most agile twin-engine plane out there. Coupled with the low weight and its two power plants, this aircraft makes for a unique flying style.
+
As a gift vehicle. the XF5F was only obtainable on special occasions throughout the years:
−
The Skyrocket's primary role is going to be Boom & Zoom; the climb rate is decent, and so is the energy retention if you stay under 550 kph and opt for smooth, moderate turns. However, the lack of heavy armament means that you will have to keep your guns on target longer in order to achieve considerable damage. Such opportunity comes when the enemy is low on speed and not suspecting any enemies/tunnel-visioned on an ally; for example at the top of a loop, or in a sustained turn fight with an allied plane. Be cautious as you go past 600 kph, however, as it locks up, similar to the XP-50's high-speed compression. Overall, the XF5F is a plane that favours high altitude, medium speed engagements, where it is safe from crashing in the ground and has room to manoeuvre.
 
  
−
If required, you can push the XF5F into a more aggressive energy fighter, similar to the Bf 109 series, where looping back on the enemy while holding superior speed and altitude allows you to extinguish their energy little by little. The responsive roll and pull, in addition to the effective combat flaps, engine throttle management, and acceleration, allows for some nifty dogfighting against heavier planes that may see you as easy prey. Keep in mind, however, that the engines will overheat badly at low altitude, and even more so at around 2,800m due to the supercharger setting in. Overheating isn't nearly as serious at higher altitude (around 12,000 ft / 3,600 m), where fresh air will cool your motor apparatus quickly. Alternatively, you may manually set the radiators to ~40% water/20% oil for continuous 100% engine power.
+
* During the [[wt:en/news/404--en|2014 Winter Magic]] event, the XF5F was given to the players who participated the most in the event.
 +
* During the [[wt:en/news/2598--en|2014 War Thunder Anniversary]] event, the XF5F was one of the few planes that were given away.
 +
* In the [[wt:en/news/3610-special-team-deathmatch-win-rare-vehicles-en|2016 Team Deathmatch]] tournament, the plane was awarded to the top 300 players.
 +
* During the [[wt:en/news/4978-special-us-air-force-day-get-the-xf5f-skyrocket-en|2017 U.S. Air Force day]] event, the plane could be received by performing a single in-game task.
 +
* It was also made available in the [[Warbonds]] shop as a random prize of the Vehicle battle trophy from [[wt:en/news/5432-news-how-can-you-get-premium-vehicles-warbonds-en|April]] to August 2018 and from [[wt:en/news/6349-news-how-can-you-get-premium-vehicles-warbonds-en|September 2019]] to February 2020.
 +
* During War Thunder's [[wt:en/news/7945-special-happy-anniversary-war-thunder-en|10th anniversary]], it was a reward for the "10 rare vehicles" event.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 19: Line 23:
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 +
 +
The XF5F Skyrocket is an oddity. Its lightweight and surprising manoeuvrability aren't what you'd expect from a twin-engine fighter. Indeed, it is among the most agile twin-engine planes at this rank. Coupled with the low weight and its two powerplants, this aircraft makes for a unique flying style. The responsive roll and pull, in addition to the effective combat flaps, engine throttle management, and acceleration, allows for some nifty dogfighting against heavier planes that may see you as easy prey. It locks up similar to the XP-50's high-speed compression as you go past 600 km/h.
 +
 +
Keep in mind, however, that the engines will overheat badly at low altitude, and even more so at around 2,800 m due to the supercharger. Overheating isn't nearly as serious at higher altitude (around 12,000 ft / 3,600 m), where fresh air will cool your motor apparatus quickly. Alternatively, you may manually set the radiators to ~40% water/20% oil for continuous 100% engine power. Overall, the XF5F is a plane that favours high altitude, medium speed engagements, where it is safe from crashing in the ground and has room to manoeuvre.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 487 || 487 || 290 || ~11 || ~7
+
| 722 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 465 || 436 || 290 || ~11 || ~7
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 71: Line 79:
 
|-
 
|-
 
| < 350 || < 400 || < 350 || > 300
 
| < 350 || < 400 || < 350 || > 300
−
|-
 
−
|}
 
−
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 1,200-5,000 m || 1,200 hp || N/A
 
−
|-
 
−
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
−
|-
 
−
! Optimal altitude
 
−
! 100% Engine power
 
−
! WEP Engine power
 
−
|-
 
−
| 4,200-9,000 m || 1,120 hp || N/A
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 121: Line 107:
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the tactics of playing in the aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a 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. Examine 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 aircraft, the features of using aircraft in a 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. Examine the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
−
Exploiting the opponent's weakness while relying on a fast straight-line acceleration may allow for escapes out of an unfavourable situation.
 
  
−
Energy fighters (Bf 109/C.205/La-5) trying to out turn a twin-engine plane can be lured into stall-speed turn fights and intercepted during their subsequent speed recovery.
+
;Combat tactics
 +
 
 +
The Skyrocket's primary role is going to be Boom & Zoom; the climb rate is decent, and so is the energy retention if you stay under 550 km/h and opt for smooth, moderate turns. However, the lack of heavy armament means that you will have to keep your guns on target longer in order to achieve considerable damage. Such opportunity comes when the enemy is low on speed and not suspecting any enemies/tunnel-visioned on an ally; for example at the top of a loop, or in a sustained turn fight with an allied plane. If required, you can push the XF5F into a more aggressive energy fighter, similar to the Bf 109 series, where looping back on the enemy while holding superior speed and altitude allows you to extinguish their energy little by little. Some general tips:
 +
 
 +
* Exploiting the opponent's weakness while relying on a fast straight-line acceleration may allow for escapes out of an unfavourable situation.
 +
* Energy fighters (Bf 109/C.205/La-5) trying to out turn a twin-engine plane can be lured into stall-speed turn fights and intercepted during their subsequent speed recovery.
 +
* Single engagements at low altitude are optimal thanks to fast acceleration trumping dive speed and climb.
 +
* Engagements with multiple opponents are to be avoided since the XF5F needs a substantially longer time to effectively engage and eliminate a target.
  
−
Single engagements at low altitude are optimal thanks to fast acceleration trumping dive speed and climb.
+
;Specific enemies worth noting
  
−
Engagements with multiple opponents are to be avoided since the XF5F needs a substantially longer time to effectively engage and eliminate a target.
+
In Realistic and Simulator Battles, the stiff opposition, in the form of F4U-1, Bf 109 F, La-5, Yaks, Hurricanes and Ki-61, will give you a serious run for your money. Always make sure you hold the energy advantage at all times and are picking your fights with care.
  
−
In Realistic Battle and Simulator Battle, the stiff opposition, in the form of [[Bf 109 G-2/trop|Bf 109 G-2]]s, [[Fw 190 A-5|Fw 190A]]s, [[Yak-9T]]s, [[Yak-3]], and [[La-5FN]], will give you a serious run for your money. Always make sure you hold the energy advantage at all times and are picking your fights with care.
+
;Counter-tactics
  
 
Countering an XF5F could include out-diving or -stalling with horizontal manoeuvres followed up by a steep ascend, exploiting its weak energy retention and sluggishness at low speeds. Another tactic is to force the XF5F into a head-on attack. Since it's not very well armed, there is a good chance that you will be able to deal damage without receiving much yourself.
 
Countering an XF5F could include out-diving or -stalling with horizontal manoeuvres followed up by a steep ascend, exploiting its weak energy retention and sluggishness at low speeds. Another tactic is to force the XF5F into a head-on attack. Since it's not very well armed, there is a good chance that you will be able to deal damage without receiving much yourself.
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Telescopic sight for RB/SB
+
* Adequate manoeuvrability overall
−
* Good manoeuvrability overall
 
 
* Superb turn time
 
* Superb turn time
−
* Nose mounted armament
+
* Nose-mounted armament
 
* Can fly on a single-engine, albeit not for long
 
* Can fly on a single-engine, albeit not for long
 
* Does have an arrestor hook, allowing for it to land on a carrier to repair/rearm
 
* Does have an arrestor hook, allowing for it to land on a carrier to repair/rearm
Line 167: Line 158:
 
* Control surfaces compress hard after exceeding around 600 km/h
 
* Control surfaces compress hard after exceeding around 600 km/h
 
* Horrible energy retention
 
* Horrible energy retention
−
* Large profile, an easy target
+
* Large profile,making it an easy target
 
* Large, fragile engines
 
* Large, fragile engines
 
* Prolonged usage of engines at 100% throttle causes it to overheat
 
* Prolonged usage of engines at 100% throttle causes it to overheat
−
* Somewhat underwhelming climb rate
+
* Poor climb rate
 
* Terrible high altitude performance
 
* Terrible high altitude performance
 
* No WEP in RB/SB
 
* No WEP in RB/SB
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== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft 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).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft 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 Grumman XF5F Skyrocket was a prototype twin engine, carrier-borne, interceptor aircraft; developed for the United States Navy. In January 1938, the U.S. Navy issued a specification calling for a lightweight carrier-based fighter / interceptor to replace the obsolete biplanes which were in use at the time. Five companies issued proposals, of which Grumman, Vought and Bell received contracts to produce a prototype. Grumman produced the XF5F Skyrocket, to complete with Vought's XF4U-1 Corsair (the prototype of the legendary [[F4U (Family)|F4U Corsair]]), and Bell's XFL Airabonita (a naval version of the [[P-39 (Family)|P-39 Airacobra]].
+
The Grumman XF5F Skyrocket was a prototype twin engine, carrier-borne, interceptor aircraft; developed for the United States Navy. In January 1938, the U.S. Navy issued a specification calling for a lightweight carrier-based fighter / interceptor to replace the obsolete biplanes which were in use at the time. Five companies issued proposals, of which Grumman, Vought and Bell received contracts to produce a prototype. Grumman produced the XF5F Skyrocket, to complete with Vought's XF4U-1 Corsair (the prototype of the legendary [[F4U (Family)|F4U Corsair]]), and Bell's XFL Airabonita (a naval version of the [[P-39 (Family)|P-39 Airacobra]]).
  
 
The requirement put an emphasis on the aircraft achieving the highest speed possible, and so for this reason the Grumman engineers chose to design a dual engine fighter. Grumman planned to fit the aircraft with two 23mm Madsen cannons, along with two Browning .30 machine guns; although this would eventually be revised with Browning .50 machine guns replacing the cannons. The main landing gear of the Skyrocket was built into the engine nacelles, and the wings were made to fold upwards just outboard of the engines in order to take up less room on aircraft carriers.
 
The requirement put an emphasis on the aircraft achieving the highest speed possible, and so for this reason the Grumman engineers chose to design a dual engine fighter. Grumman planned to fit the aircraft with two 23mm Madsen cannons, along with two Browning .30 machine guns; although this would eventually be revised with Browning .50 machine guns replacing the cannons. The main landing gear of the Skyrocket was built into the engine nacelles, and the wings were made to fold upwards just outboard of the engines in order to take up less room on aircraft carriers.
Line 183: Line 174:
 
The Skyrocket was the first of the three prototypes to fly, taking to the air for the first time on 1st April 1940 and becoming the worlds first twin engined carrier-borne fighter. It was followed shortly after by the Airabonita on 13th May and the Corsair on 29th May. The XF5F proved to have good overall flight characteristics in it's first flight; however a number of problems were soon found with the aircraft. The oil cooling system was found to be inadequate, and the landing gear doors did not function properly. Following early test flights many modifications were made to the aircraft, including improvements to the cooling system, reducing the size of the cockpit canopy, redesigning aspects of the engine nacelles, and adding spinners to the propellers.
 
The Skyrocket was the first of the three prototypes to fly, taking to the air for the first time on 1st April 1940 and becoming the worlds first twin engined carrier-borne fighter. It was followed shortly after by the Airabonita on 13th May and the Corsair on 29th May. The XF5F proved to have good overall flight characteristics in it's first flight; however a number of problems were soon found with the aircraft. The oil cooling system was found to be inadequate, and the landing gear doors did not function properly. Following early test flights many modifications were made to the aircraft, including improvements to the cooling system, reducing the size of the cockpit canopy, redesigning aspects of the engine nacelles, and adding spinners to the propellers.
  
−
Bell's XFL Airabonita had been plagued with technical and design issues relating to the engine, aircraft balance, and landing gear; leading to it being rejected by the Navy. This left just the XF5F and XF4U in the competition. The XF5F had shown a high top speed of 616 km/h in early tests, and had proven itself to have an excellent climb rate of 4,000 ft/min, compared to the XF4U's 2,660 ft/min. However the single engine XF4U soon proved to be a better overall aircraft, achieving speeds of 650 km/h in later test flights, beating the duel engined XF5F.
+
Bell's XFL Airabonita had been plagued with technical and design issues relating to the engine, aircraft balance, and landing gear; leading to it being rejected by the Navy. This left just the XF5F and XF4U in the competition. The XF5F had shown a high top speed of 616 km/h in early tests, and had proven itself to have an excellent climb rate of 4,000 ft/min, compared to the XF4U's 2,660 ft/min. However the single engine XF4U soon proved to be a better overall aircraft, achieving speeds of 650 km/h in later test flights, beating the dual engine XF5F.
  
 
On the 30th June 1941 the Navy gave Vought a contract to start producing the Corsair, and it soon became apparent that no such order would be placed for the Skyrocket. The XF5F continued flying as a test bed aircraft, but continued to be plagued by landing gear issues, eventually suffering two gear failures, the second of which lead to the aircraft being written off in December 1944.
 
On the 30th June 1941 the Navy gave Vought a contract to start producing the Corsair, and it soon became apparent that no such order would be placed for the Skyrocket. The XF5F continued flying as a test bed aircraft, but continued to be plagued by landing gear issues, eventually suffering two gear failures, the second of which lead to the aircraft being written off in December 1944.
  
−
Following the rejection of the XF5F Grumman worked on developing a dual engine land based fighter, the [[XP-50]]. The XP-50 was visually similar to the XF5F; however it had a longer noes, extending forwards of the wing, and a tricycle undercarriage. It also had more powerful engines than the XF5F, giving it significantly better flight performance. During testing of the single XP-50 prototype the turbo-supercharger on one of the aircraft's engines exploded, destroying the landing gear and forcing the pilot to abandon the aircraft. Using their experience from the XF5F and XP-50 Grumman finally developed the [[F7F-1|F7F Tigercat]], which was accepted into service, becoming the first duel engined fighter to be deployed by the US Navy.
+
Following the rejection of the XF5F Grumman worked on developing a dual engine land based fighter, the [[XP-50]]. The XP-50 was visually similar to the XF5F; however it had a longer nose, extending forwards of the wing, and a tricycle undercarriage. It also had more powerful engines than the XF5F, giving it significantly better flight performance. During testing of the single XP-50 prototype the turbo-supercharger on one of the aircraft's engines exploded, destroying the landing gear and forcing the pilot to abandon the aircraft. Using their experience from the XF5F and XP-50 Grumman finally developed the [[F7F-1|F7F Tigercat]], which was accepted into service, becoming the first dual engine fighter to be deployed by the US Navy.
  
−
== Obtainable events ==
+
== Media ==
 +
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
  
−
* During the January 2014 event [http://warthunder.com/en/news/383-War-Thunder---Winter-Magic-en "Winter Magic"], the XF5F was [https://warthunder.com/en/news/404-New-special-event-aircraft-XF5F-1--and-TB-3-en given] to those who participated the most in the event.
+
;Skins
−
* On 31 October 2014, the XF5F was one of the few planes that could be received by Gaijin in their [http://warthunder.com/en/news/2598-aircraft-present-on-war-thunder-s-birthday-en 2nd anniversary present giveaways].
 
−
* In March 2016, the XF5F was obtainable in the [http://warthunder.com/en/news/3610-special-team-deathmatch-win-rare-vehicles-en "War Thunder:100"] team deathmatch event
 
−
* In September 2017, the XF5F was obtainable in the [https://warthunder.com/en/news/4978-special-us-air-force-day-get-the-xf5f-skyrocket-en U.S. Air Force Anniversary Event]
 
−
* It is currently considered a rare vehicle and is obtainable through the [https://trade.gaijin.net/? Gaijin Marketplace].
 
  
−
== Media ==
+
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=xf5f Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
−
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
+
 
 +
;Videos
 
{{Youtube-gallery|OcYq1It4TAI|War Thunder Premium Review: XF5F Skyrocket [Ugly Duckling]}}
 
{{Youtube-gallery|OcYq1It4TAI|War Thunder Premium Review: XF5F Skyrocket [Ugly Duckling]}}
  
Line 205: Line 194:
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 +
 +
;Related development
  
 
* [[XP-50]]
 
* [[XP-50]]
 
* [[F7F-1]]
 
* [[F7F-1]]
 
* [[F7F-3]]
 
* [[F7F-3]]
−
* [[F4U (Family)|F4U Corsair]]
+
 
 +
;Similar airframe
 +
 
 +
* [[Ro.57 Quadriarma]]
  
 
== 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;''
−
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
 
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
  

Latest revision as of 05:05, 28 November 2023

Rank 7 USA
F-5C Pack
XF5F
xf5f.png
GarageImage XF5F.jpg
ArtImage XF5F.png
360://https://wiki.warthunder.com/images/1/1e/Cockpit_xf5f.jpg
XF5F
USA flag.png USA
III Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.0 2.3 2.3
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
MARKET

Description

The XF5F Skyrocket is a premium gift rank III American twin-engine fighter with a battle rating of 3.0 (AB) and 2.3 (RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.37.

As a gift vehicle. the XF5F was only obtainable on special occasions throughout the years:

  • During the 2014 Winter Magic event, the XF5F was given to the players who participated the most in the event.
  • During the 2014 War Thunder Anniversary event, the XF5F was one of the few planes that were given away.
  • In the 2016 Team Deathmatch tournament, the plane was awarded to the top 300 players.
  • During the 2017 U.S. Air Force day event, the plane could be received by performing a single in-game task.
  • It was also made available in the Warbonds shop as a random prize of the Vehicle battle trophy from April to August 2018 and from September 2019 to February 2020.
  • During War Thunder's 10th anniversary, it was a reward for the "10 rare vehicles" event.

General info

Flight performance

Arrestor gear
Accelerates braking by grabbing the brake cable on the deck of the aircraft carrier
Max speed
at 5 273 m574 km/h
Turn time21 s
Max altitude9 400 m
Engine2 х Wright Cyclone R-1820-40
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight6 t

The XF5F Skyrocket is an oddity. Its lightweight and surprising manoeuvrability aren't what you'd expect from a twin-engine fighter. Indeed, it is among the most agile twin-engine planes at this rank. Coupled with the low weight and its two powerplants, this aircraft makes for a unique flying style. The responsive roll and pull, in addition to the effective combat flaps, engine throttle management, and acceleration, allows for some nifty dogfighting against heavier planes that may see you as easy prey. It locks up similar to the XP-50's high-speed compression as you go past 600 km/h.

Keep in mind, however, that the engines will overheat badly at low altitude, and even more so at around 2,800 m due to the supercharger. Overheating isn't nearly as serious at higher altitude (around 12,000 ft / 3,600 m), where fresh air will cool your motor apparatus quickly. Alternatively, you may manually set the radiators to ~40% water/20% oil for continuous 100% engine power. Overall, the XF5F is a plane that favours high altitude, medium speed engagements, where it is safe from crashing in the ground and has room to manoeuvre.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 5,273 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 558 544 9400 21.9 22.6 7.4 7.3 280
Upgraded 588 574 20.2 21.0 12.1 9.7

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
722 370 465 436 290 ~11 ~7
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 350 < 400 < 350 > 300

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear370 km/h
  • 9.5 mm Steel plate in the nose
  • 9.5 mm Steel plate behind the pilot
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks (1 in each wingroot)

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB894 Sl icon.png
RB3 114 Sl icon.png
SB2 426 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts210 000 Sl icon.png
Aces700 Ge icon.png
Research Aces790 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 80 / 220 / 390 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 154 / 154 / 154 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods ammo.png
bmg30_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
bmg30_new_gun
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
bmg50_new_gun

Armaments

Offensive armament

Weapon 12 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine gun
Ammunition400 rounds
Fire rate750 shots/min
Weapon 22 x 7.62 mm Browning machine gun
Ammunition1 000 rounds
Fire rate1 000 shots/min
Main articles: M2 Browning (12.7 mm), Browning (7.62 mm)

The XF5F is armed with:

  • 2 x 12.7 mm M2 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (200 rpg = 400 total)
  • 2 x 7.62 mm Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (500 rpg = 1,000 total)

Usage in battles

Combat tactics

The Skyrocket's primary role is going to be Boom & Zoom; the climb rate is decent, and so is the energy retention if you stay under 550 km/h and opt for smooth, moderate turns. However, the lack of heavy armament means that you will have to keep your guns on target longer in order to achieve considerable damage. Such opportunity comes when the enemy is low on speed and not suspecting any enemies/tunnel-visioned on an ally; for example at the top of a loop, or in a sustained turn fight with an allied plane. If required, you can push the XF5F into a more aggressive energy fighter, similar to the Bf 109 series, where looping back on the enemy while holding superior speed and altitude allows you to extinguish their energy little by little. Some general tips:

  • Exploiting the opponent's weakness while relying on a fast straight-line acceleration may allow for escapes out of an unfavourable situation.
  • Energy fighters (Bf 109/C.205/La-5) trying to out turn a twin-engine plane can be lured into stall-speed turn fights and intercepted during their subsequent speed recovery.
  • Single engagements at low altitude are optimal thanks to fast acceleration trumping dive speed and climb.
  • Engagements with multiple opponents are to be avoided since the XF5F needs a substantially longer time to effectively engage and eliminate a target.
Specific enemies worth noting

In Realistic and Simulator Battles, the stiff opposition, in the form of F4U-1, Bf 109 F, La-5, Yaks, Hurricanes and Ki-61, will give you a serious run for your money. Always make sure you hold the energy advantage at all times and are picking your fights with care.

Counter-tactics

Countering an XF5F could include out-diving or -stalling with horizontal manoeuvres followed up by a steep ascend, exploiting its weak energy retention and sluggishness at low speeds. Another tactic is to force the XF5F into a head-on attack. Since it's not very well armed, there is a good chance that you will be able to deal damage without receiving much yourself.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Controllable
Not auto controlled 		Separate Controllable
2 gears 		Not controllable

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Adequate manoeuvrability overall
  • Superb turn time
  • Nose-mounted armament
  • Can fly on a single-engine, albeit not for long
  • Does have an arrestor hook, allowing for it to land on a carrier to repair/rearm

Cons:

  • Weak armament
  • Control surfaces compress hard after exceeding around 600 km/h
  • Horrible energy retention
  • Large profile,making it an easy target
  • Large, fragile engines
  • Prolonged usage of engines at 100% throttle causes it to overheat
  • Poor climb rate
  • Terrible high altitude performance
  • No WEP in RB/SB
  • Arrestor Hook is short/non-extendable, making carrier landings tricky

History

The Grumman XF5F Skyrocket was a prototype twin engine, carrier-borne, interceptor aircraft; developed for the United States Navy. In January 1938, the U.S. Navy issued a specification calling for a lightweight carrier-based fighter / interceptor to replace the obsolete biplanes which were in use at the time. Five companies issued proposals, of which Grumman, Vought and Bell received contracts to produce a prototype. Grumman produced the XF5F Skyrocket, to complete with Vought's XF4U-1 Corsair (the prototype of the legendary F4U Corsair), and Bell's XFL Airabonita (a naval version of the P-39 Airacobra).

The requirement put an emphasis on the aircraft achieving the highest speed possible, and so for this reason the Grumman engineers chose to design a dual engine fighter. Grumman planned to fit the aircraft with two 23mm Madsen cannons, along with two Browning .30 machine guns; although this would eventually be revised with Browning .50 machine guns replacing the cannons. The main landing gear of the Skyrocket was built into the engine nacelles, and the wings were made to fold upwards just outboard of the engines in order to take up less room on aircraft carriers.

The Skyrocket was the first of the three prototypes to fly, taking to the air for the first time on 1st April 1940 and becoming the worlds first twin engined carrier-borne fighter. It was followed shortly after by the Airabonita on 13th May and the Corsair on 29th May. The XF5F proved to have good overall flight characteristics in it's first flight; however a number of problems were soon found with the aircraft. The oil cooling system was found to be inadequate, and the landing gear doors did not function properly. Following early test flights many modifications were made to the aircraft, including improvements to the cooling system, reducing the size of the cockpit canopy, redesigning aspects of the engine nacelles, and adding spinners to the propellers.

Bell's XFL Airabonita had been plagued with technical and design issues relating to the engine, aircraft balance, and landing gear; leading to it being rejected by the Navy. This left just the XF5F and XF4U in the competition. The XF5F had shown a high top speed of 616 km/h in early tests, and had proven itself to have an excellent climb rate of 4,000 ft/min, compared to the XF4U's 2,660 ft/min. However the single engine XF4U soon proved to be a better overall aircraft, achieving speeds of 650 km/h in later test flights, beating the dual engine XF5F.

On the 30th June 1941 the Navy gave Vought a contract to start producing the Corsair, and it soon became apparent that no such order would be placed for the Skyrocket. The XF5F continued flying as a test bed aircraft, but continued to be plagued by landing gear issues, eventually suffering two gear failures, the second of which lead to the aircraft being written off in December 1944.

Following the rejection of the XF5F Grumman worked on developing a dual engine land based fighter, the XP-50. The XP-50 was visually similar to the XF5F; however it had a longer nose, extending forwards of the wing, and a tricycle undercarriage. It also had more powerful engines than the XF5F, giving it significantly better flight performance. During testing of the single XP-50 prototype the turbo-supercharger on one of the aircraft's engines exploded, destroying the landing gear and forcing the pilot to abandon the aircraft. Using their experience from the XF5F and XP-50 Grumman finally developed the F7F Tigercat, which was accepted into service, becoming the first dual engine fighter to be deployed by the US Navy.

Media

Skins
Videos
War Thunder Premium Review: XF5F Skyrocket [Ugly Duckling]

See also

Related development
Similar airframe

External links


Grumman Aircraft Engineering Corporation
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