Difference between revisions of "Hunter FGA.9"

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{{About
 
{{About
−
| about = British jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
+
| about = premium British jet fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| usage = other versions
 
| usage = other versions
 
| link = Hunter (Family)
 
| link = Hunter (Family)
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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=hunter_f9_rhodesia
 
|code=hunter_f9_rhodesia
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
+
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
−
|store=7212
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft 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 and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft 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.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} British jet fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.93 "Shark Attack"]].
+
The '''Hunter FGA.9''' was a modification of the [[Hunter F.6]], with the biggest difference being an upgrade to the hydraulic control system allowing the aircraft to react better in dives and ground attack profiles. The FGA.9 was used extensively by RAF squadrons in West Germany, Aden and Bahrain and was also sold to Southern Rhodesia as the SRAF's main front line fighter and ground attack aircraft. After Rhodesia's unilateral declaration of independence in 1965, the now Rhodesian Air Force (RhAF) used the Hunter along with Vampires and Canberras during the standoff with British Colonial Forces in 1965-1966 and the Rhodesian Bush Wars of the 1970s including multiple cross country operations into Zambia, Mozambique and Botswana striking at ZIPRA and ZANLA forces. Following the fall of Rhodesia's government in 1979, the aircraft continued their service with the newly named Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ). Five additional FGA.9 Hunters were sourced from ex-Kenya Air Force stocks in 1982 and along with a further five and two from Royal Air Force stocks in 1984 and 1987 respectively. The use of the aircraft continued throughout the 1980s and '90s during operations in the Second Congo War and the Mozambican Civil War alongside BAe Hawks and Chengdu F-7s among other fixed and rotary wing aircraft. As of the 2020s, the AFZ still maintains at least two Hawker Hunters albeit in an unknown airworthiness capacity at its Thornhill Air Base.
 +
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update 1.93 "Shark Attack"]] as a premium pack, the Hunter FGA.9 is one of the better Hunters in-game, having an upgraded engine and access to the AIM-9E, it is only bested by the [[Hunter F.58 (Germany)|Swiss Hunter F.58]]. The FGA.9 shines in energy fights as long as the player keeps their situational awareness at a maximum, as some missiles at that tier (such as the AIM-9L and R-60M) will prove lethal due to the FGA.9's lack of countermeasures. The FGA.9 also does particularly well at close-air support and ground-striking thanks to its generous loadouts offering large 1,000 lb bombs and various kinds of rockets.
 +
 
 +
The Hunter FGA.9 was removed from the store after the [[wt:en/news/7417-shop-war-thunder-birthday-sale-in-gaijin-net-store-en|9th Anniversary Sale]]. It was made available briefly to purchase with Golden Eagles {{ge}} during the [https://old-forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/552122-zimbabwe-independence-day/ 2022] and the [[wt:en/news/8197-special-zimbabwe-independence-day-en|2023]] "Zimbabwe Independence Day" mini-events.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
Line 18: Line 21:
 
{{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.'' -->
−
Although without an afterburner, this aircraft will out-accelerate almost all aircraft at it's battle rating. The [[MiG-15bis (Germany)|▀MiG-15]] bis and [[MiG-17AS]] will out-accelerate you on the runway, but from about 400-1000km/h you can pretty much outrun everything, even [[Shenyang F-5]]<nowiki/>s, [[F-86K (France)|F86K]]<nowiki/>s and [[F-100D|F100]]<nowiki/>s all with afterburners. The aircraft has the best acceleration for a non-afterburning jet in the game. It also has extremely good top end speed for its battle rating. Be warned the aircraft is a '''brick''' (especially at lower speeds) so most aircraft will out-turn you. Turning is advised only against larger aircraft like [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantoms]].
+
Although without an afterburner, this aircraft will out-accelerate almost all aircraft at its battle rating. The [[MiG-15bis (Germany)|▀MiG-15]] bis and [[MiG-17AS]] will out-accelerate you on the runway. The aircraft has one of the best acceleration rates for a non-afterburning jet in the game, beaten by the Harrier models, Etendard IVM and then the Yak-38/38M. It also has a good top end speed for its battle rating. Be warned the aircraft is a brick (especially at lower speeds) so most aircraft will out-turn you. Turning is advised only against larger aircraft like [[F-4 Phantom II (Family)|F-4 Phantoms]].
  
 
{| 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}} || 620 || 620 || 465 || ~14 || ~6
+
| 1,225 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 603 || 581 || 465 || ~14 || ~6
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
 
! colspan="2" | Engine name || Number
−
! colspan="1" | Empty mass || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
+
! colspan="1" | {{Annotation|Basic mass|Mass of the aircraft with pilot and engine oil, but no fuel or weapons load}} || colspan="2" | Wing loading (full fuel)
 
|-
 
|-
−
| colspan="2" | Rolls-Royce Avon Mk.207 || 1
+
| colspan="2" | Rolls-Royce Avon Mk.207 || 1
−
| colspan="1" | 6,110 kg || colspan="2" | 237 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
+
| colspan="1" | 6,209 kg || colspan="2" | 240 kg/m<sup>2</sup>
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
 
! colspan="3" | Engine characteristics
−
! colspan="2" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br />Weight
+
! colspan="2" | Mass with fuel (no weapons load) || rowspan="2" | Max Takeoff<br>Weight
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
 
! Weight (each) || colspan="2" | Type
−
! 4m fuel || 14m fuel
+
! 3m fuel || 13m fuel
 
|-
 
|-
 
| 1,175 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
 
| 1,175 kg || colspan="2" | Axial-flow turbojet
−
| 6,510 kg || 7,487 kg || 10,900 kg
+
| 6,620 kg || 7,578 kg || 10,900 kg
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
+
! colspan="3" | {{Annotation|Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB)|The maximum thrust produced by each engine, while mounted in the aircraft. NOTE: Thrust varies significantly depending on speed & altitude.}}
 
! colspan="3" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
 
! colspan="3" | Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Condition || 100% || WEP
 
! Condition || 100% || WEP
−
! 4m fuel || 14m fuel || MTOW
+
! 3m fuel || 13m fuel || MTOW
 
|-
 
|-
 
| ''Stationary'' || 4,272 kgf || N/A
 
| ''Stationary'' || 4,272 kgf || N/A
−
| 0.67 || 0.57 || 0.39
+
| 0.65 || 0.56 || 0.39
 
|-
 
|-
−
| ''Optimal'' || 4,991 kgf<br />(1,100 km/h) || N/A
+
| ''Optimal'' || 5,229 kgf<br>(1,225 km/h) || N/A
−
| 0.77 || 0.66 || 0.46
+
| 0.79 || 0.69 || 0.48
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
  
−
The FGA.9 is quite survivable with a robust airframe due to it being primarily intended for ground attacking or close air support. It may take a few hits from enemy cannon fire and still survive, and also stay flying with critical components (wing, engine, etc.) damaged long enough to return to base. However, don't expect the FGA.9 to soak up 30 mm DEFA or other ADEN armed aircraft. Head-on attacks are recommended, albeit from further away than other aircraft (about 2.5/2km away and pull off) due to closure rates and the aircraft being a brick so you have to pull off earlier than normal. '''''Do not commit fully to a head on attack''''', as your ADEN cannon muzzle velocity is slower than most other guns. Do not head-on aircraft .50cal, like F-86s as they will ruin you before your shots even get anywhere near their aircraft. The placement of the cannons also makes head-on attacks tricky.
+
The FGA.9 is quite survivable with a robust airframe due to it being primarily intended for ground attacking or close air support. It may take a few hits from enemy cannon fire and still survive, and also stay flying with critical components (wing, engine, etc.) damaged long enough to return to base. However, don't expect the FGA.9 to soak up 30 mm DEFA or other ADEN armed aircraft. Head-on attacks are recommended, albeit from further away than other aircraft (about 2.5/2km away and pull off) due to closure rates and the aircraft being a brick so you have to pull off earlier than normal. Do not commit fully to a head-on attack, as your ADEN cannon muzzle velocity is slower than most other guns. Do not head-on aircraft that carry .50 cal MGs like F-86s, as they will ruin you before your shots even get anywhere near their aircraft. The placement of the cannons also makes head-on attacks tricky.
  
 
The only armour on the aircraft are a 64 mm bullet proof glass in front of the pilot, with a 12.7 mm steel plate behind the pilot.
 
The only armour on the aircraft are a 64 mm bullet proof glass in front of the pilot, with a 12.7 mm steel plate behind the pilot.
Line 134: Line 137:
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|H.E. M.C. Mk.II (500 lb)|M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I (1,000 lb)|AIM-9E Sidewinder|SNEB type 23}}
 
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 +
|-
 +
! !! width="4%" | 1 !! width="4%" | 2 !! width="4%" | 3 !! width="4%" | 4 !! width="4%" | 5 !! width="4%" | 6 !! width="4%" | 7 !! width="4%" | 8 !! width="4%" | 9 !! width="4%" | 10 !! width="4%" | 11 !! width="4%" | 12
 +
| rowspan="8" width="30%" | <div class="ttx-image">[[File:Hardpoints_Hunter_F.58_(Germany).png]]</div>
 +
|-
 +
! [[H.E. M.C. Mk.II (500 lb)|500 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.II]] bombs
 +
| || 1* || || || || 1 || 1 || || || || 1* ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[M.C. Mk.I (1,000 lb)|1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I]] bombs
 +
| || 1* || || || || 1 || 1 || || || || 1* ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AP Mk II]] rockets
 +
| 3* || || 3* || 3 || 3 || || || 3 || 3 || 3* || || 3*
 +
|-
 +
! [[HVAR]] rockets
 +
| 1* || || 1* || || 1 || || || 1 || || 1* || || 1*
 +
|-
 +
! [[RP-3]] rockets
 +
| 1* || || 1* || 1 || 1 || || || 1 || 1 || 1* || || 1*
 +
|-
 +
! [[SNEB type 23]] rockets
 +
| || 18* || || || || || || || || || 18* ||
 +
|-
 +
! [[AIM-9E Sidewinder]] missiles
 +
| || || || || || 1 || 1 || || || || ||
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="14" | * Ordnance on hardpoints 2/11 cannot be equipped in conjunction with ordnance on adjacent hardpoints
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
{{Navigation-Start|Default weapon presets}}
 +
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
  
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
−
* 2 x 500 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.II bombs (1,000 lb total)
+
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
 +
* 36 x SNEB type 23 rockets
 +
* 24 x AP Mk II rockets
 +
* 8 x RP-3 rockets
 +
* 6 x HVAR rockets
 
* 4 x 500 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.II bombs (2,000 lb total)
 
* 4 x 500 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.II bombs (2,000 lb total)
−
* 2 x 1,000 lb M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs (2,000 lb total)
+
* 4 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (4,000 lb total)
−
* 4 x 1,000 lb M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs (4,000 lb total)
+
{{Navigation-End}}
−
* 2 x 1,000 lb M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs + 2 x 500 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.II bombs (3,000 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x 500 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.II bombs + 36 x SNEB type 23 rockets (1,000 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x 1,000 lb M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs + 36 x SNEB type 23 rockets (2,000 lb total)
 
−
* 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
 
  
 
== 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).'' -->
  
−
Side rush and burst climb, then enter the main cluster of aircraft in the middle (ideally with a height advantage). Your AIM 9E's (if you choose to bring them into battle) will quickly dispatch any enemies at a low energy state (hopefully distracted by fighting someone else). Use your superior speed in the cluster and launch your ordinance then zoom back up (the [[Boom & Zoom]] strategy). When you have expended your missiles, use your 30 mm ADENs as they are VERY destructive and typically only one shell is enough to critically damage or destroy any aircraft they come in contact with.
+
Side rush and burst climb, then enter the main cluster of aircraft in the middle (ideally with a height advantage). Your AIM-9Es (if you choose to bring them into battle) will quickly dispatch any enemies at a low energy state (hopefully distracted by fighting someone else). Use your superior speed in the cluster and launch your ordnance then zoom back up (the [[Boom & Zoom]] strategy). When you have expended your missiles, use your 30 mm ADENs as they are VERY destructive and typically only one shell is enough to critically damage or destroy any aircraft they come in contact with.
  
−
If up-tiered into fighting top-rank fighter jets, planes such as the [[MiG-21SMT]]<nowiki/>s / [[MiG-21MF (Germany)|MF]]<nowiki/>s , [[F-4E Phantom II|F-4E]]/[[F-4EJ Phantom II|EJ]]/[[Phantom FGR.2|FGR]] Phantoms will ruin the {{PAGENAME}} due to good turn rate (in the MiG's case) and very high speeds - they are problematic as the {{PAGENAME}} has a non-afterburning engine, so they will out-accelerate you easily, while the [[R-60M]]/[[AIM-9J Sidewinder|AIM-9J]]/[[AIM-7D Sparrow|AIM-7]]/[[Matra R550 Magic 1|R550 Magic]] missiles will easily out-pull the Hunter every time if they acquire a strong lock and send you back to the hangar. The only way to get a shot against the higher BR jets is to dive on them while they are distracted or fighting someone else and launch a missile at them.
+
If caught out in a low speed scenario against aircraft such as the [[Shenyang F-5]], [[MiG-17]] / [[MiG-17AS|AS]] and [[MiG-19PT]] / [[MiG-19S (Germany)|S]], your primary advantage will be to utilize your superior roll rate and the high inaccuracy level of their 23 mm NR-23 and 37 mm N-37D autocannons to force them into a rolling scissors manoeuvre, at which point you can only hope that they will overshoot, giving you a chance to get back in the game. If possible, only engage these aircraft when you have a significant energy advantage and above all do not vertically turn against them.
 +
 
 +
If up-tiered into fighting top-rank fighter jets, planes such as the [[MiG-21SMT]] / [[MiG-21MF (Germany)|MF]], [[F-4E Phantom II|F-4E]]/[[F-4EJ Phantom II|EJ]]/[[Phantom FGR.2|FGR]] Phantoms will ruin the {{PAGENAME}} due to good turn rate (in the MiG's case) and very high speeds - they are problematic as the {{PAGENAME}} has a non-afterburning engine, so they will out-accelerate you easily, while the [[R-60M]]/[[AIM-9J Sidewinder|AIM-9J]]/[[AIM-7D Sparrow|AIM-7]]/[[Matra R550 Magic 1|R550 Magic]] missiles will easily out-pull the Hunter every time if they acquire a strong lock and send you back to the hangar. The only way to get a shot against the higher BR jets is to dive on them while they are distracted or fighting someone else and launch a missile at them.
 +
 
 +
===Radars===
 +
<!--{{main|AN/APG-30}}-->
 +
The Hunter FGA.9 is equipped with an AN/APG-30 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
 +
It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
! colspan="4" | AN/APG-30 - Rangefinding radar
 +
|-
 +
! {{Annotation|Maximum<br/>Tracking<br/>Range|The maximum range at which a target can be tracked}}
 +
! {{Annotation|Minimum<br/>Tracking<br/>Range|The range below which targets cannot be tracked by the radar}}
 +
! {{Annotation|Azimuth Tracking<br/>Angle|How far to each side the radar can track a target}}
 +
! {{Annotation|Elevation Tracking<br/>Angle|How far up and down the radar can track a target}}
 +
|-
 +
| 2,750 m || 300 m || ±9° || ±9°
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
Line 160: Line 214:
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* Excellent speed advantage when in rank V matches
+
* AIM-9Es are very good with a longer burning motor (longer range and better energy retention, 10G manoeuvrability and up to (around) 4 km range from the rear)
−
* Tends to get down-tiered due to match-making placement
 
−
* AIM-9Es are very good with a longer burning motor (longer range and better energy retention, 10G manoeuvrability and up to (around) 4 km range from the rear
 
 
* 30 mm ADEN cannons are devastating to aircraft and ground targets with a good ammo pool and high fire rate
 
* 30 mm ADEN cannons are devastating to aircraft and ground targets with a good ammo pool and high fire rate
−
* Good SL and RP modifier, allowing you to grind out the British tech tree, while earning good SL.
+
* Very good energy retention
−
* Low repair cost due to it's premium status (5,270 SL)
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* High speed manoeuvrability is bad due to locking up from about 1000 km/h onwards
+
* High speed manoeuvrability is bad due to locking up from about 1,000 km/h onwards
−
* Low level pilot can pass out instantly from pulling 3G's from about 700 km/h, requires upgrades in G-Tolerance and Stamina to perform well
+
* Low level pilot can pass out instantly from pulling 3G from about 700 km/h, requires upgrades in G-Tolerance and Stamina to perform well
 
* If you spray with your cannons, 600 rounds will disappear quite quickly, so fire in controlled bursts.
 
* If you spray with your cannons, 600 rounds will disappear quite quickly, so fire in controlled bursts.
−
* Will find itself extremely out-classed in up-tiers to fighting top-rank aircraft
 
  
 
== 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).'' -->
  
−
Towards the end of the 1950s, the Royal Air Force was faced with the increasing obsolescence of the [[Venom_FB.4|De Havilland Venom FB.4]] in the ground attack role. At the time, the Venom was still in use as a Close Air Support aircraft both in South East Asia and the Middle East; especially in the Aden Emergency it was intensely used, and as a result, a replacement was urgently required. In 1958 the Royal Air Force started the Venom Replacement Evaluation Trials (VRET), selecting the Royal Air Force bases of RAF Khormaksar (Aden) with its long paved runway, and RAF Riyan (Quaiti State, Eastern Aden Protectorate) with its unhardened airstrip as trials bases.
+
Towards the end of the 1950s, the Royal Air Force was faced with the increasing obsolescence of the de Havilland [[Venom FB.4]] in the ground attack role. At the time, the Venom was still in use as a Close Air Support aircraft both in South East Asia and the Middle East; especially in the Aden Emergency it was intensely used, and as a result, a replacement was urgently required. In 1958 the Royal Air Force started the Venom Replacement Evaluation Trials (VRET), selecting the Royal Air Force bases of RAF Khormaksar (Aden) with its long paved runway, and RAF Riyan (Quaiti State, Eastern Aden Protectorate) with its unhardened airstrip as trials bases.
  
−
For the VRET, three types were selected: the Hunting Jet Provost T.3; the Folland Gnat F.1; and last but not least, the [[Hunter_F.6|Hawker Hunter F.6]]. Before the trials began, the Folland Gnat was considered the forerunner, while the Hawker Hunter was initially not even considered for the trials, as the type was thought to be uneconomical for use in the Middle East, however, this decision was overturned after intense lobbying by Hawker. Early on during the trials, it became clear that the Hunting Jet Provost was not able to fulfil any of the requirements set by the trials, and while the type would go on to be developed into the successful BAC Strikemaster, it was eliminated from the contest. The trials had become a straight contest between the Hunter and the Gnat.
+
For the VRET, three types were selected: the Hunting Jet Provost T.3; the Folland Gnat F.1; and last but not least, the Hawker [[Hunter F.6]]. Before the trials began, the Folland Gnat was considered the forerunner, while the Hawker Hunter was initially not even considered for the trials, as the type was thought to be uneconomical for use in the Middle East, however, this decision was overturned after intense lobbying by Hawker. Early on during the trials, it became clear that the Hunting Jet Provost was not able to fulfil any of the requirements set by the trials, and while the type would go on to be developed into the successful BAC Strikemaster, it was eliminated from the contest. The trials had become a straight contest between the Hunter and the Gnat.
  
−
Early on, the Folland appeared to be a clear favourite: above 40,000 ft it was more manoeuvrable than the Hunter, and its diminutive size made it a difficult target to spot and aim at. Additionally, it required only a minimum of external equipment to operate it from unprepared airstrips. However, the diminutive size of the Gnat also worked in its disadvantage: its relative short landing gear gave the aircraft unpleasant characteristics on unpaved airstrips, and its relatively low-set exhaust damaged the runway surface. However, the main problem for the Gnat was that it was unable to meet range requirements. Fully loaded for combat it had a range of 188 nm, which fell short of the 250 nm requirement set up in the VRET; with external tanks, its maximum ferry range was 673 nm, which was insufficient to ferry it between the Royal Air Force's main Middle East Air Force bases. At the end of the trials, the Hunter came out as the winner on all points except agility above 40,000 ft.
+
Early on, the Folland appeared to be a clear favourite: above 40,000 ft it was more manoeuvrable than the Hunter, and its diminutive size made it a difficult target to spot and aim at. Additionally, it required only a minimum of external equipment to operate it from unprepared airstrips. However, the diminutive size of the Gnat also worked in its disadvantage: its relative short landing gear gave the aircraft unpleasant characteristics on unpaved airstrips, and its relatively low-set exhaust damaged the runway surface. However, the main problem for the Gnat was that it was unable to meet range requirements. Fully loaded for combat it had a range of 188 nm, which fell short of the 250 nm requirement set up in the VRET; with external tanks, its maximum ferry range was 673 nm, which was insufficient to ferry it between the Royal Air Force's main Middle East Air Force bases. At the end of the trials, the Hunter came out as the winner on all points except agility above 40,000 ft.
  
−
Following the trials, conversion work was started to bring the Hunter F.6 up to full ground attack standard, the FGA.9 (for Fighter Ground Attack). The wing spars were restressed and strengthened, a brake chute was added in a housing above the exhaust for use on unprepared airstrips, the flight controls were adjusted to give a better response at low altitude, and the oxygen supply was increased; as the FGA.9 was primarily intended for use in the Middle East, the aircraft were also given a tropicalised refrigeration and ventilation system. New drop tanks were designed for the inner wing hardpoints, capable of carrying 230 gallons (instead of the 100-gallon drop tanks in use up to then); as they were larger, a cut-out was made in the flaps so they could be extended while carrying the new tanks. Initially, these tanks were fixed and intended for ferry use only, but gradually they were redesigned so they could be jettisonable and used in combat. The first Hunter FGA.9 made its maiden flight on July 3rd 1959. The initial batch was built to 'interim' FGA.9 with an Avon 203 which provided 10,000 lb thrust; the production variant was equipped with an Avon 207 which provided 10,050 lb thrust.
+
Following the trials, conversion work was started to bring the Hunter F.6 up to full ground attack standard, the FGA.9 (for Fighter, Ground Attack). The wing spars were restressed and strengthened, a brake chute was added in a housing above the exhaust for use on unprepared airstrips, the flight controls were adjusted to give a better response at low altitude, and the oxygen supply was increased; as the FGA.9 was primarily intended for use in the Middle East, the aircraft were also given a tropicalised refrigeration and ventilation system. New drop tanks were designed for the inner wing hardpoints, capable of carrying 230 gallons (instead of the 100-gallon drop tanks in use up to then); as they were larger, a cut-out was made in the flaps so they could be extended while carrying the new tanks. Initially, these tanks were fixed and intended for ferry use only, but gradually they were redesigned so they could be jettisonable and used in combat. The first Hunter FGA.9 made its maiden flight on July 3rd 1959. The initial batch was built to 'interim' FGA.9 with an Avon 203 which provided 10,000 lb thrust; the production variant was equipped with an Avon 207 which provided 10,050 lb thrust.
  
−
Around the time the Hunter FGA.9 started entering RAF service in 1960, the Hunter F.6 was considered obsolete as a day fighter with the impending service entry of the English Electric Lightning. As a result, many Hunter F.6 airframes were taken back by Hunter for a rebuild to the FGA.9 standard. In all, 144 Hunter F.6s were rebuild to FGA.9 standard. A dedicated reconnaissance variant was also developed out of the FGA.9: the FR.10 had the same capabilities as the FGA.9, except for the adjusted flight controls, its main difference being a set of reconnaissance cameras in a new nose.
+
Around the time the Hunter FGA.9 started entering RAF service in 1960, the Hunter F.6 was considered obsolete as a day fighter with the impending service entry of the English Electric Lightning. As a result, many Hunter F.6 airframes were taken back by Hunter for a rebuild to the FGA.9 standard. In all, 144 Hunter F.6s were rebuild to FGA.9 standard. A dedicated reconnaissance variant was also developed out of the FGA.9: the FR.10 had the same capabilities as the FGA.9, except for the adjusted flight controls, its main difference being a set of reconnaissance cameras in a new nose.
  
−
In Royal Air Force service, the Hunter FGA.9 was first deployed in Aden in 1960, where it replaced the obsolete Venom; it was used during the Radfan Emergency to attack insurgent forces. During the Borneo Confrontation of 1963-1966, RAF Hunter FGA.9s were used in counter-insurgency operations. The withdrawal from the Royal Air Force from its former protectorates in the late 1960s saw the need for these ground-attack Hunters disappear; the last frontline RAF Hunter FGA.9 unit was disbanded in 1971, however, the type remained in RAF service as an advanced trainer until the 1980s, with trainer variants remaining in RAF service until the early 1990s.
+
In Royal Air Force service, the Hunter FGA.9 was first deployed in Aden in 1960, where it replaced the obsolete Venom; it was used during the Radfan Emergency to attack insurgent forces. During the Borneo Confrontation of 1963-1966, RAF Hunter FGA.9s were used in counter-insurgency operations. The withdrawal from the Royal Air Force from its former protectorates in the late 1960s saw the need for these ground-attack Hunters disappear; the last frontline RAF Hunter FGA.9 unit was disbanded in 1971, however, the type remained in RAF service as an advanced trainer until the 1980s, with trainer variants remaining in RAF service until the early 1990s.
  
−
The Hunter FGA.9 variant also became the basis of numerous close air support variants intended for export. This was partly possible due to the disbanding of numerous RAF day fighter units following the 1957 Defence White Paper, and partly due to the early retirement of the Hawker Hunter F.6 in Belgian (1963) and Dutch (1968) service. This released several hundreds of Hunter F.6 airframes which could be rebuilt to FGA standard. Dedicated 'national' variants were built for India (FGA.56), Kuwait (FGA.57), Switzerland (F.58A), Iraq (FGA.59), Lebanon (FGA.70), Chile (FGA.71), Jordan (FGA.73), Singapore (FGA.75), Abu Dhabi (FGA.76), Qatar (FGA.78) and Kenya (FGA.80). Additionally, numerous ex-Royal Air Force FGA.9 airframes were refurbished by Hunter for export.
+
The Hunter FGA.9 variant also became the basis of numerous close air support variants intended for export. This was partly possible due to the disbanding of numerous RAF day fighter units following the 1957 Defence White Paper, and partly due to the early retirement of the Hawker Hunter F.6 in Belgian (1963) and Dutch (1968) service. This released several hundreds of Hunter F.6 airframes which could be rebuilt to FGA standard. Dedicated 'national' variants were built for India (FGA.56), Kuwait (FGA.57), Switzerland (F.58A), Iraq (FGA.59), Lebanon (FGA.70), Chile (FGA.71), Jordan (FGA.73), Singapore (FGA.75), Abu Dhabi (FGA.76), Qatar (FGA.78) and Kenya (FGA.80). Additionally, numerous ex-Royal Air Force FGA.9 airframes were refurbished by Hunter for export.
  
−
In foreign service, the Hawker Hunter had a considerably long life. It was relatively easy to maintain type, which could be deployed quickly if needed. In the absence of aerial threats, it was an excellent ground attack aircraft, making it suited for low-intensity conflict and counter-insurgency operations. Many aircraft were locally modified to carry a wide variety of ordonnance: some air forces such as those of Switzerland and Singapore modified theirs to carry the AIM-9 Sidewinder; in their ultimate guise, Swiss Air Force Hunters were even capable of firing the AGM-65 Maverick. Most aircraft were withdrawn from frontline service in the 1990s, with Switzerland being the last Western nation to withdraw the type from frontline service in 1994. The Indian Air Force was the last major user of the type, withdrawing the last of its Hunters in 2000; the last nation to withdraw the Hunter from frontline military service was Lebanon, retiring the Hunter in 2014. Even so, a handful of Hunters remain in limited military service: as of 2019, ATAC in the United States, Apache Aviation in France, Hawker Hunter Aviation in the UK and Lortie Aviation in Canada operate a number of civilianised Hawker Hunters under government military contracts to provide high-speed aerial threat simulation, mission support training and trials support services.
+
In foreign service, the Hawker Hunter had a considerably long life. It was relatively easy to maintain type, which could be deployed quickly if needed. In the absence of aerial threats, it was an excellent ground attack aircraft, making it suited for low-intensity conflict and counter-insurgency operations. Many aircraft were locally modified to carry a wide variety of ordnance: some air forces such as those of Switzerland and Singapore modified theirs to carry the AIM-9 Sidewinder; in their ultimate guise, Swiss Air Force Hunters were even capable of firing the AGM-65 Maverick. Most aircraft were withdrawn from frontline service in the 1990s, with Switzerland being the last Western nation to withdraw the type from frontline service in 1994. The Indian Air Force was the last major user of the type, withdrawing the last of its Hunters in 2000; the last nation to withdraw the Hunter from frontline military service was Lebanon, retiring the Hunter in 2014. Even so, a handful of Hunters remain in limited military service: as of 2019, ATAC in the United States, Apache Aviation in France, Hawker Hunter Aviation in the UK and Lortie Aviation in Canada operate a number of civilianised Hawker Hunters under government military contracts to provide high-speed aerial threat simulation, mission support training and trials support services.
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=hunter_f9_rhodesia Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|9ivnMchdhqE|'''Fighter Theory: The Premium Hunter FGA.9''' - ''Sako Sniper''|zU7Nfa-Aqso|'''Should You Buy The Hunter FGA. 9?''' - ''Sako Sniper''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
Line 203: Line 260:
 
;Related development
 
;Related development
  
−
* Hawker [[Sea_Hawk_FGA.6|Sea Hawk]]
+
* Hawker [[Sea Hawk FGA.6|Sea Hawk]]
−
* Hawker [[Hunter F 1]]
 
  
−
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
+
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
  
 
* Dassault [[Super Mystere B2|Super Mystère]]
 
* Dassault [[Super Mystere B2|Super Mystère]]
Line 217: Line 273:
  
 
* ''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 20:11, 9 March 2024

RANK 5 FRANCE
Somua SM PACK
This page is about the premium British jet fighter Hunter FGA.9. For other versions, see Hunter (Family).
Hunter FGA.9
hunter_f9_rhodesia.png
GarageImage Hunter FGA.9.jpg
ArtImage Hunter FGA.9.png
Hunter FGA.9
Britain flag.png Britain
VI Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
9.3 9.3 9.7
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game

Description

The Hunter FGA.9 was a modification of the Hunter F.6, with the biggest difference being an upgrade to the hydraulic control system allowing the aircraft to react better in dives and ground attack profiles. The FGA.9 was used extensively by RAF squadrons in West Germany, Aden and Bahrain and was also sold to Southern Rhodesia as the SRAF's main front line fighter and ground attack aircraft. After Rhodesia's unilateral declaration of independence in 1965, the now Rhodesian Air Force (RhAF) used the Hunter along with Vampires and Canberras during the standoff with British Colonial Forces in 1965-1966 and the Rhodesian Bush Wars of the 1970s including multiple cross country operations into Zambia, Mozambique and Botswana striking at ZIPRA and ZANLA forces. Following the fall of Rhodesia's government in 1979, the aircraft continued their service with the newly named Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ). Five additional FGA.9 Hunters were sourced from ex-Kenya Air Force stocks in 1982 and along with a further five and two from Royal Air Force stocks in 1984 and 1987 respectively. The use of the aircraft continued throughout the 1980s and '90s during operations in the Second Congo War and the Mozambican Civil War alongside BAe Hawks and Chengdu F-7s among other fixed and rotary wing aircraft. As of the 2020s, the AFZ still maintains at least two Hawker Hunters albeit in an unknown airworthiness capacity at its Thornhill Air Base.

Introduced in Update 1.93 "Shark Attack" as a premium pack, the Hunter FGA.9 is one of the better Hunters in-game, having an upgraded engine and access to the AIM-9E, it is only bested by the Swiss Hunter F.58. The FGA.9 shines in energy fights as long as the player keeps their situational awareness at a maximum, as some missiles at that tier (such as the AIM-9L and R-60M) will prove lethal due to the FGA.9's lack of countermeasures. The FGA.9 also does particularly well at close-air support and ground-striking thanks to its generous loadouts offering large 1,000 lb bombs and various kinds of rockets.

The Hunter FGA.9 was removed from the store after the 9th Anniversary Sale. It was made available briefly to purchase with Golden Eagles Ge icon.png during the 2022 and the 2023 "Zimbabwe Independence Day" mini-events.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Drogue parachute
Reduces braking distance when landing on any runway
Max speed
at 0 m1 148 km/h
Turn time25 s
Max altitude15 500 m
EngineRolls-Royce Avon Mk.207
TypeJet
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight11 t

Although without an afterburner, this aircraft will out-accelerate almost all aircraft at its battle rating. The ▀MiG-15 bis and MiG-17AS will out-accelerate you on the runway. The aircraft has one of the best acceleration rates for a non-afterburning jet in the game, beaten by the Harrier models, Etendard IVM and then the Yak-38/38M. It also has a good top end speed for its battle rating. Be warned the aircraft is a brick (especially at lower speeds) so most aircraft will out-turn you. Turning is advised only against larger aircraft like F-4 Phantoms.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 0 m - sea level) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 1,138 1,133 15500 25.5 26.3 53.6 46.6 820
Upgraded 1,158 1,148 24.6 25.0 88.8 70.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
1,225 450 603 581 465 ~14 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 850 < 600 < 690 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Basic mass Wing loading (full fuel)
Rolls-Royce Avon Mk.207 1 6,209 kg 240 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 3m fuel 13m fuel
1,175 kg Axial-flow turbojet 6,620 kg 7,578 kg 10,900 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB/SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
Condition 100% WEP 3m fuel 13m fuel MTOW
Stationary 4,272 kgf N/A 0.65 0.56 0.39
Optimal 5,229 kgf
(1,225 km/h) 		N/A 0.79 0.69 0.48

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear450 km/h

The FGA.9 is quite survivable with a robust airframe due to it being primarily intended for ground attacking or close air support. It may take a few hits from enemy cannon fire and still survive, and also stay flying with critical components (wing, engine, etc.) damaged long enough to return to base. However, don't expect the FGA.9 to soak up 30 mm DEFA or other ADEN armed aircraft. Head-on attacks are recommended, albeit from further away than other aircraft (about 2.5/2km away and pull off) due to closure rates and the aircraft being a brick so you have to pull off earlier than normal. Do not commit fully to a head-on attack, as your ADEN cannon muzzle velocity is slower than most other guns. Do not head-on aircraft that carry .50 cal MGs like F-86s, as they will ruin you before your shots even get anywhere near their aircraft. The placement of the cannons also makes head-on attacks tricky.

The only armour on the aircraft are a 64 mm bullet proof glass in front of the pilot, with a 12.7 mm steel plate behind the pilot.

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB2 096 Sl icon.png
RB5 825 Sl icon.png
SB6 626 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts850 000 Sl icon.png
Aces2 400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces1 900 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 130 / 380 / 600 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 220 / 220 / 220 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Mods jet engine extinguisher.png
EFS
Mods ammo.png
aden_belt_pack
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
500 LB
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
25 lb A.P. Mark II
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
1000 LB
Mods pilon rocket.png
HVAR/RP-3
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
aden_new_gun
Mods pilon block rocket.png
Matra SNEB
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
AIM-9E

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: ADEN (30 mm)

The Hunter FGA.9 is armed with:

  • 4 x 30 mm ADEN cannons, nose-mounted (150 rpg = 600 total)

Suspended armament

The Hunter FGA.9 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Hardpoints Hunter F.58 (Germany).png
500 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.II bombs 1* 1 1 1*
1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs 1* 1 1 1*
AP Mk II rockets 3* 3* 3 3 3 3 3* 3*
HVAR rockets 1* 1* 1 1 1* 1*
RP-3 rockets 1* 1* 1 1 1 1 1* 1*
SNEB type 23 rockets 18* 18*
AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles 1 1
* Ordnance on hardpoints 2/11 cannot be equipped in conjunction with ordnance on adjacent hardpoints
Default weapon presets
  • Without load
  • 2 x AIM-9E Sidewinder missiles
  • 36 x SNEB type 23 rockets
  • 24 x AP Mk II rockets
  • 8 x RP-3 rockets
  • 6 x HVAR rockets
  • 4 x 500 lb H.E. M.C. Mk.II bombs (2,000 lb total)
  • 4 x 1,000 lb M.C. Mk.I bombs (4,000 lb total)

Usage in battles

Side rush and burst climb, then enter the main cluster of aircraft in the middle (ideally with a height advantage). Your AIM-9Es (if you choose to bring them into battle) will quickly dispatch any enemies at a low energy state (hopefully distracted by fighting someone else). Use your superior speed in the cluster and launch your ordnance then zoom back up (the Boom & Zoom strategy). When you have expended your missiles, use your 30 mm ADENs as they are VERY destructive and typically only one shell is enough to critically damage or destroy any aircraft they come in contact with.

If caught out in a low speed scenario against aircraft such as the Shenyang F-5, MiG-17 / AS and MiG-19PT / S, your primary advantage will be to utilize your superior roll rate and the high inaccuracy level of their 23 mm NR-23 and 37 mm N-37D autocannons to force them into a rolling scissors manoeuvre, at which point you can only hope that they will overshoot, giving you a chance to get back in the game. If possible, only engage these aircraft when you have a significant energy advantage and above all do not vertically turn against them.

If up-tiered into fighting top-rank fighter jets, planes such as the MiG-21SMT / MF, F-4E/EJ/FGR Phantoms will ruin the Hunter FGA.9 due to good turn rate (in the MiG's case) and very high speeds - they are problematic as the Hunter FGA.9 has a non-afterburning engine, so they will out-accelerate you easily, while the R-60M/AIM-9J/AIM-7/R550 Magic missiles will easily out-pull the Hunter every time if they acquire a strong lock and send you back to the hangar. The only way to get a shot against the higher BR jets is to dive on them while they are distracted or fighting someone else and launch a missile at them.

Radars

The Hunter FGA.9 is equipped with an AN/APG-30 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft. It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range.

AN/APG-30 - Rangefinding radar
Maximum
Tracking
Range 		Minimum
Tracking
Range 		Azimuth Tracking
Angle 		Elevation Tracking
Angle
2,750 m 300 m ±9° ±9°

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • AIM-9Es are very good with a longer burning motor (longer range and better energy retention, 10G manoeuvrability and up to (around) 4 km range from the rear)
  • 30 mm ADEN cannons are devastating to aircraft and ground targets with a good ammo pool and high fire rate
  • Very good energy retention

Cons:

  • High speed manoeuvrability is bad due to locking up from about 1,000 km/h onwards
  • Low level pilot can pass out instantly from pulling 3G from about 700 km/h, requires upgrades in G-Tolerance and Stamina to perform well
  • If you spray with your cannons, 600 rounds will disappear quite quickly, so fire in controlled bursts.

History

Towards the end of the 1950s, the Royal Air Force was faced with the increasing obsolescence of the de Havilland Venom FB.4 in the ground attack role. At the time, the Venom was still in use as a Close Air Support aircraft both in South East Asia and the Middle East; especially in the Aden Emergency it was intensely used, and as a result, a replacement was urgently required. In 1958 the Royal Air Force started the Venom Replacement Evaluation Trials (VRET), selecting the Royal Air Force bases of RAF Khormaksar (Aden) with its long paved runway, and RAF Riyan (Quaiti State, Eastern Aden Protectorate) with its unhardened airstrip as trials bases.

For the VRET, three types were selected: the Hunting Jet Provost T.3; the Folland Gnat F.1; and last but not least, the Hawker Hunter F.6. Before the trials began, the Folland Gnat was considered the forerunner, while the Hawker Hunter was initially not even considered for the trials, as the type was thought to be uneconomical for use in the Middle East, however, this decision was overturned after intense lobbying by Hawker. Early on during the trials, it became clear that the Hunting Jet Provost was not able to fulfil any of the requirements set by the trials, and while the type would go on to be developed into the successful BAC Strikemaster, it was eliminated from the contest. The trials had become a straight contest between the Hunter and the Gnat.

Early on, the Folland appeared to be a clear favourite: above 40,000 ft it was more manoeuvrable than the Hunter, and its diminutive size made it a difficult target to spot and aim at. Additionally, it required only a minimum of external equipment to operate it from unprepared airstrips. However, the diminutive size of the Gnat also worked in its disadvantage: its relative short landing gear gave the aircraft unpleasant characteristics on unpaved airstrips, and its relatively low-set exhaust damaged the runway surface. However, the main problem for the Gnat was that it was unable to meet range requirements. Fully loaded for combat it had a range of 188 nm, which fell short of the 250 nm requirement set up in the VRET; with external tanks, its maximum ferry range was 673 nm, which was insufficient to ferry it between the Royal Air Force's main Middle East Air Force bases. At the end of the trials, the Hunter came out as the winner on all points except agility above 40,000 ft.

Following the trials, conversion work was started to bring the Hunter F.6 up to full ground attack standard, the FGA.9 (for Fighter, Ground Attack). The wing spars were restressed and strengthened, a brake chute was added in a housing above the exhaust for use on unprepared airstrips, the flight controls were adjusted to give a better response at low altitude, and the oxygen supply was increased; as the FGA.9 was primarily intended for use in the Middle East, the aircraft were also given a tropicalised refrigeration and ventilation system. New drop tanks were designed for the inner wing hardpoints, capable of carrying 230 gallons (instead of the 100-gallon drop tanks in use up to then); as they were larger, a cut-out was made in the flaps so they could be extended while carrying the new tanks. Initially, these tanks were fixed and intended for ferry use only, but gradually they were redesigned so they could be jettisonable and used in combat. The first Hunter FGA.9 made its maiden flight on July 3rd 1959. The initial batch was built to 'interim' FGA.9 with an Avon 203 which provided 10,000 lb thrust; the production variant was equipped with an Avon 207 which provided 10,050 lb thrust.

Around the time the Hunter FGA.9 started entering RAF service in 1960, the Hunter F.6 was considered obsolete as a day fighter with the impending service entry of the English Electric Lightning. As a result, many Hunter F.6 airframes were taken back by Hunter for a rebuild to the FGA.9 standard. In all, 144 Hunter F.6s were rebuild to FGA.9 standard. A dedicated reconnaissance variant was also developed out of the FGA.9: the FR.10 had the same capabilities as the FGA.9, except for the adjusted flight controls, its main difference being a set of reconnaissance cameras in a new nose.

In Royal Air Force service, the Hunter FGA.9 was first deployed in Aden in 1960, where it replaced the obsolete Venom; it was used during the Radfan Emergency to attack insurgent forces. During the Borneo Confrontation of 1963-1966, RAF Hunter FGA.9s were used in counter-insurgency operations. The withdrawal from the Royal Air Force from its former protectorates in the late 1960s saw the need for these ground-attack Hunters disappear; the last frontline RAF Hunter FGA.9 unit was disbanded in 1971, however, the type remained in RAF service as an advanced trainer until the 1980s, with trainer variants remaining in RAF service until the early 1990s.

The Hunter FGA.9 variant also became the basis of numerous close air support variants intended for export. This was partly possible due to the disbanding of numerous RAF day fighter units following the 1957 Defence White Paper, and partly due to the early retirement of the Hawker Hunter F.6 in Belgian (1963) and Dutch (1968) service. This released several hundreds of Hunter F.6 airframes which could be rebuilt to FGA standard. Dedicated 'national' variants were built for India (FGA.56), Kuwait (FGA.57), Switzerland (F.58A), Iraq (FGA.59), Lebanon (FGA.70), Chile (FGA.71), Jordan (FGA.73), Singapore (FGA.75), Abu Dhabi (FGA.76), Qatar (FGA.78) and Kenya (FGA.80). Additionally, numerous ex-Royal Air Force FGA.9 airframes were refurbished by Hunter for export.

In foreign service, the Hawker Hunter had a considerably long life. It was relatively easy to maintain type, which could be deployed quickly if needed. In the absence of aerial threats, it was an excellent ground attack aircraft, making it suited for low-intensity conflict and counter-insurgency operations. Many aircraft were locally modified to carry a wide variety of ordnance: some air forces such as those of Switzerland and Singapore modified theirs to carry the AIM-9 Sidewinder; in their ultimate guise, Swiss Air Force Hunters were even capable of firing the AGM-65 Maverick. Most aircraft were withdrawn from frontline service in the 1990s, with Switzerland being the last Western nation to withdraw the type from frontline service in 1994. The Indian Air Force was the last major user of the type, withdrawing the last of its Hunters in 2000; the last nation to withdraw the Hunter from frontline military service was Lebanon, retiring the Hunter in 2014. Even so, a handful of Hunters remain in limited military service: as of 2019, ATAC in the United States, Apache Aviation in France, Hawker Hunter Aviation in the UK and Lortie Aviation in Canada operate a number of civilianised Hawker Hunters under government military contracts to provide high-speed aerial threat simulation, mission support training and trials support services.

Media

Skins
Videos
Fighter Theory: The Premium Hunter FGA.9 - Sako Sniper
Should You Buy The Hunter FGA. 9? - Sako Sniper

See also

Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

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


Hawker Aircraft Limited
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Hunter  Hunter F.1 · Hunter F.6 · Hunter FGA.9
Sea Hawk  Sea Hawk FGA.6
Harrier  Harrier GR.1 · Harrier GR.3
Export  ▄Hurricane Mk I/L · ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ◘Sea Fury FB 51
  ◘Sea Hawk Mk.50 · ◄Sea Hawk Mk.100 · ◘Hunter F.6 · ◌Hunter F.58 · J34 · AV-8A · AV-8C · ▄AV-8S
Captured  ▀Tempest Mk V
See Also  Fokker

Britain jet aircraft
Blackburn  Buccaneer S.1 · Buccaneer S.2 · Buccaneer S.2B
British Aerospace  Harrier GR.7 · Sea Harrier FRS.1 (e) · Sea Harrier FRS.1 · Sea Harrier FA 2
British Aircraft Corporation  Strikemaster Mk.88
English Electric  Canberra B Mk 2 · Canberra B (I) Mk 6 · Lightning F.6 · Lightning F.53
Gloster  Meteor F Mk 3 · Sea Meteor F Mk 3 · Meteor F Mk 4 G.41F · Meteor F Mk 4 G.41G · Meteor F Mk 8 G.41K · Meteor F Mk.8 Reaper
  Javelin F.(A.W.) Mk.9
de Havilland  Vampire F.B.5 · Venom FB.4 · Sea Venom FAW 20 · Sea Vixen F.A.W. Mk.2
Hawker  Sea Hawk FGA.6 · Hunter F.1 · Hunter F.6 · Hunter FGA.9 · Harrier GR.1 · Harrier GR.3
Panavia  Tornado GR.1 · Tornado GR.4 · Tornado F.3 · Tornado F.3 Late
SEPECAT  Jaguar GR.1 · Jaguar GR.1A · Jaguar IS
Supermarine  Attacker FB 1 · Attacker FB.2 · Scimitar F Mk.1 · Swift F.1 · Swift F.7
Foreign  Phantom FG.1 (USA) · Phantom FGR.2 (USA) · F-4J(UK) Phantom II (USA)
Australia  F-111C
India  ▄MiG-21 Bison
South Africa  ▄JAS39C

Britain premium aircraft
Fighters  Tuck's Gladiator Mk II · ▄Boomerang Mk I · ▄Boomerang Mk II · ▄D.520
  ▄Martlet Mk IV · ▄Corsair F Mk II · ▄Hellcat Mk II · ▄Thunderbolt Mk.1 · ▄Mustang Mk IA
  Hurricane Mk.I/L FAA M · Spitfire Mk.IIa Venture I · Spitfire F Mk IXc · Plagis' Spitfire LF Mk IXc · Spitfire F Mk XIVc · Prendergast's Spitfire FR Mk XIVe
  Typhoon Mk Ib · MB.5
Twin-engine fighters  Hornet Mk.I · Whirlwind P.9
Jet fighters  Attacker FB.2 · Hunter FGA.9 · Lightning F.53 · Meteor F Mk.8 Reaper · Sea Vixen F.A.W. Mk.2 · F-4J(UK) Phantom II · ▄MiG-21 Bison
Strike aircraft  ▄Wirraway · Beaufighter Mk I (40-mm) · Wyvern S4
  Harrier GR.1 · Strikemaster Mk.88
Bombers  ▄Avenger Mk II · ▄Boston Mk I · ▄Catalina Mk IIIa · ▄DB-7 · ▄Havoc Mk I · ▄Hudson Mk V · Swordfish Mk II

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