Difference between revisions of "AF D3"

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{{About
 +
| about = German barge '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = the 88 mm version
 +
| link = AF D1
 +
}}
 
{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=germ_artilleriefahrprahm_typ_d3
 
|code=germ_artilleriefahrprahm_typ_d3
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== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the first part of the description, cover the history of the ship's creation and military application. In the second part, tell the reader about using this ship in the game. Add a screenshot: if a beginner player has a hard time remembering vehicles by name, a picture will help them identify the ship in question.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the first part of the description, cover the history of the ship's creation and military application. In the second part, tell the reader about using this ship in the game. Add a screenshot: if a beginner player has a hard time remembering vehicles by name, a picture will help them identify the ship in question.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' (abbreviated as '''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''') is a rank {{Specs|rank}} German naval ferry barge {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.79 "Project X"]] in the fleet closed beta test. It is essentially the [[AF D1]] equipped with a larger 105mm cannons.
+
The '''Artilleriefährprahm Typ D3''' (or '''{{Specs|pseudonym}}''' for short) was a variant of the MF Typ A landing craft converted into a makeshift gunboat after the planned invasion of Great Britain was cancelled. Due to the makeshift conversion plans between shipyards, each AF Typ D landing craft was outfitted with different kinds of armaments and armouring, such as different gun layout and extra concrete coating. The Typ D3, compared to the [[AF D1|Typ D1]], differed in its armament, featuring heavier 10.5 cm cannons instead of the 8.8 cm Flak cannons. In total, around 700 of AF Typ D of all variants were converted, and they were used either as an auxiliary minelayer towed along by destroyers, or used inland as a fire support gunboat.
 +
 
 +
Introduced in [[Update 1.79 "Project X"]] in the fleet closed beta test, the '''AF D3''' is essentially the [[AF D1]] equipped with larger 105 mm cannons and slightly different AA armaments. The AF D3 generally performs well as a fire support vessel, as the 105 mm cannons offer a major firepower upgrade over the D1's 88 mm Flak, since it is capable of hull-breaking various PT boats with ease, and even capable of going toe-to-toe against early destroyers. However, being originally designed as a landing craft, the AF D3 is completely lacking in mobility, and struggles to handle multiple enemies at once. As such, positioning and proper support is the key to success in playing this makeshift gunboat.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
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<!-- ''Talk about the vehicle's armour. Note the most well-defended and most vulnerable zones, e.g. the ammo magazine. Evaluate the composition of components and assemblies responsible for movement and manoeuvrability. Evaluate the survivability of the primary and secondary armaments separately. Don't forget to mention the size of the crew, which plays an important role in fleet mechanics. Save tips on preserving survivability for the "Usage in battles" section. If necessary, use a graphical template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Talk about the vehicle's armour. Note the most well-defended and most vulnerable zones, e.g. the ammo magazine. Evaluate the composition of components and assemblies responsible for movement and manoeuvrability. Evaluate the survivability of the primary and secondary armaments separately. Don't forget to mention the size of the crew, which plays an important role in fleet mechanics. Save tips on preserving survivability for the "Usage in battles" section. If necessary, use a graphical template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.'' -->
  
−
Although the armour doesn't cover the whole boat, the survivability is not that bad as it is a very long boat with lots of empty space inside for shells to go through. It is thus important that enemies with rapid-firing guns do not get too close to the {{PAGENAME}} as they can riddle the entire boat with shells and hit critical components through the armour.
+
Although the armour doesn't cover the whole boat, the survivability is not that bad, as it is a very long boat with lots of empty space inside for shells to go through. It is thus important that enemies with rapid-firing guns do not get too close to the {{PAGENAME}} as they can riddle the entire boat with shells and hit critical components through the armour.
  
−
Staying far from the enemies and attacking them with the 10.5cm guns is the best way to improve the lifespan of the {{PAGENAME}}.
+
Staying far from the enemies and attacking them with the 10.5 cm guns is the best way to improve the lifespan of the {{PAGENAME}}.
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
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<!-- ''Write about the ship's mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward and reverse speed.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Write about the ship's mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward and reverse speed.'' -->
  
 +
{{NavalMobility}}
 +
 +
Like other German naval barges, the {{PAGENAME}} has an abysmal top speed of just 20 km/h (RB) and very sluggish turn time. Due to the long hull design, the {{PAGENAME}} has trouble navigating through various narrow passages and avoiding obstacles and incoming torpedoes.
  
−
{{NavalMobility}}
 
−
Similar to other naval barges, the {{PAGENAME}} has an abysmal top speed of just 20 km/h (RB) and very sluggish turn time. Due to the long hull design, the {{PAGENAME}} has a trouble navigating through various narrow passages and avoiding obstacles and incoming torpedoes.
 
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
{{Specs-Economy}}
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{{Specs-Fleet-Primary}}
 
{{Specs-Fleet-Primary}}
 
<!-- ''Provide information about the characteristics of the primary armament. Evaluate their efficacy in battle based on their reload speed, ballistics and the capacity of their shells. Add a link to the main article about the weapon: <code><nowiki>{{main|Weapon name (calibre)}}</nowiki></code>. Broadly describe the ammunition available for the primary armament, and provide recommendations on how to use it and which ammunition to choose.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Provide information about the characteristics of the primary armament. Evaluate their efficacy in battle based on their reload speed, ballistics and the capacity of their shells. Add a link to the main article about the weapon: <code><nowiki>{{main|Weapon name (calibre)}}</nowiki></code>. Broadly describe the ammunition available for the primary armament, and provide recommendations on how to use it and which ammunition to choose.'' -->
−
{{main|10.5 cm SK C/32 (105 mm)}}
+
{{main|SK C/32 (105 mm)}}
−
 
 
−
The {{PAGENAME}} has two 105mm SK C/32 turrets as its main armament which is a direct improvement from the 88mm FlaK from its predecessor. It has higher explosive mass and penetration with a fast reload time of just 4.64 seconds. The main gun can fire the following ammo types: HE (effective against most targets), HE with base fuse (effective against armoured targets), and HE-TF (for anti-aircraft purposes). The barges can carries up to 200 shells in total.
 
  
−
Ammo information:
+
The {{PAGENAME}} has two 105 mm SK C/32 turrets as its main armament, which is a direct improvement from the 88 mm FlaK from its predecessor. It has higher explosive mass and penetration, with a fast reload time of just 4.64 seconds. The main gun can fire the following ammo types: HE (effective against most targets), HE with base fuse (effective against armoured targets), and HE-TF (for anti-aircraft purposes). The barges can carry up to 200 shells in total.
  
−
HE : 20mm penetration any range and any angle. Exeplosive mass: 1.55 KG
+
{{:SK C/32 (105 mm)/Ammunition|10.5 cm Sprgr. L/4.4 Kpf.Z, 10.5 cm Sprgr. L/4.4 Bd.Z, 10.5 cm Sprgr. L/4.4 Zt.Z}}
−
 
 
−
HE with base fuse: 50 mm penetration at 1 KM, 21 mm at 15 KM. Explosive mass: 1.55 KG
 
−
 
 
−
HE-TF: 20 mm penetration any range and any angle. Explosive mass: 1.55 KG
 
−
 
 
−
All rounds have a muzzle velocity of 900 m/s
 
  
 
=== Secondary armament ===
 
=== Secondary armament ===
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<!-- ''Some ships are fitted with weapons of various calibres. Secondary armaments are defined as weapons chosen with the control <code>Select secondary weapon</code>. Evaluate the secondary armaments and give advice on how to use them. Describe the ammunition available for the secondary armament. Provide recommendations on how to use them and which ammunition to choose. Remember that any anti-air armament, even heavy calibre weapons, belong in the next section. If there is no secondary armament, remove this section.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Some ships are fitted with weapons of various calibres. Secondary armaments are defined as weapons chosen with the control <code>Select secondary weapon</code>. Evaluate the secondary armaments and give advice on how to use them. Describe the ammunition available for the secondary armament. Provide recommendations on how to use them and which ammunition to choose. Remember that any anti-air armament, even heavy calibre weapons, belong in the next section. If there is no secondary armament, remove this section.'' -->
 
{{main|2 cm/65 Flakvierling 38 (20 mm)|MG M38(t) (15 mm)}}
 
{{main|2 cm/65 Flakvierling 38 (20 mm)|MG M38(t) (15 mm)}}
−
The {{PAGENAME}} is equipped with two 20mm Flakvierling AA guns placed at the bridge and stern each. In [[SF40 Leichte]], these guns were proven to be very deadly against most targets the {{PAGENAME}} might've face. Due to the gun placement and two less gun mount than the SF40 Leichte, it is somewhat less effective due to less concentrated firepower. However, it is relatively easier to target, as the two gun mount were placed directly frontally and in the rear (as opposed to SF 40 Leichte's diamond placement), this allows the {{PAGENAME}} to hit the target frontally with relative ease.
 
  
−
20 mm ammo types:
+
The {{PAGENAME}} is equipped with two 20 mm Flakvierling AA guns placed at the bridge and stern each. On the [[SF40 Light]], these guns proved to be very effective against most targets the {{PAGENAME}} might have to face. Due to the gun placement and two fewer gun mounts than the SF40 Leichte, it is somewhat less effective due to less concentrated firepower. However, it is relatively easier to target, as the two gun mount were placed directly frontally and in the rear (as opposed to SF 40 Leichte's diamond placement), this allows the {{PAGENAME}} to hit the target frontally with relative ease.
  
−
* Universal (36 mm pen at 10 m, 17 mm at 2 km)
+
* '''Universal:''' {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-T|High-explosive fragmentation tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF|High-explosive fragmentation}}
−
* HET magazines (36 mm pen at 10 m, 17 mm at 2 km)
+
* '''20 mm HET magazines:''' {{Annotation|HEF|High-explosive fragmentation}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-T|High-explosive fragmentation tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF|High-explosive fragmentation}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}
−
* APT magazines (36 mm pen at 10 m, 17 mm at 2 km)
+
* '''20 mm APT magazines:''' {{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF|High-explosive fragmentation}}
 +
 
 +
{{:2 cm/65 Flakvierling 38 (20 mm)/Ammunition|HEF-T, AP, AP-T, HEF}}
  
 
=== Anti-aircraft armament ===
 
=== Anti-aircraft armament ===
 
{{Specs-Fleet-AA}}
 
{{Specs-Fleet-AA}}
 
<!-- ''An important part of the ship's armament responsible for air defence. Anti-aircraft armament is defined by the weapon chosen with the control <code>Select anti-aircraft weapons</code>. Talk about the ship's anti-air cannons and machine guns, the number of guns and their positions, their effective range, and about their overall effectiveness – including against surface targets. If there are no anti-aircraft armaments, remove this section.'' -->
 
<!-- ''An important part of the ship's armament responsible for air defence. Anti-aircraft armament is defined by the weapon chosen with the control <code>Select anti-aircraft weapons</code>. Talk about the ship's anti-air cannons and machine guns, the number of guns and their positions, their effective range, and about their overall effectiveness – including against surface targets. If there are no anti-aircraft armaments, remove this section.'' -->
−
{{main|3.7 cm SK C/30 (37 mm)}}
+
{{main|SK C/30 (37 mm)}}
  
 
A single 37 mm SK C/30 cannon is available in the anti-aircraft weapon slot for the {{PAGENAME}}.
 
A single 37 mm SK C/30 cannon is available in the anti-aircraft weapon slot for the {{PAGENAME}}.
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! colspan="8" | [[3.7 cm SK C/30 (37 mm)|3.7 cm SK C/30]]
 
! colspan="8" | [[3.7 cm SK C/30 (37 mm)|3.7 cm SK C/30]]
 
|-
 
|-
−
! scope="row" | Ammo capacity
+
! Ammo capacity
−
| 2000
+
| 2,000
 
|-
 
|-
−
! scope="row" | Fire rate
+
! Fire rate
 
| 30 rounds/minute
 
| 30 rounds/minute
 
|-
 
|-
−
! scope="row" | Reloading rate
+
! Reloading rate
 
| 2 seconds
 
| 2 seconds
 
|-
 
|-
−
! scope="row" | Vertical guidance
+
! Vertical guidance
 
| -10°/+80°
 
| -10°/+80°
 
|-
 
|-
−
! scope="row" | Horizontal guidance
+
! Horizontal guidance
 
| ±180°
 
| ±180°
 
|-
 
|-
−
! scope="row" | Targeting speed
+
! Targeting speed
 
| 17°/s
 
| 17°/s
 
|-
 
|-
−
! scope="row" | Targeting vertical speed
+
! Targeting vertical speed
 
| 13°/s
 
| 13°/s
 
|-
 
|-
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{{main|WBD depth charge}}
 
{{main|WBD depth charge}}
  
−
There are 4 WBD depth charges on the boat. These can be used as a close range weapon, although they only fire behind you so don't treat them as weapons with any reach.
+
There are 4 WBD depth charges on the boat. These can be used as a close range weapon, although they only drop behind in your wake.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don't try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don't try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).'' -->
  
−
Similar to the [[AF D1]], the {{PAGENAME}} is excel at fire supporting. Try to stay at long ranges, where the guns and armour work good together. At close range try to angle or peeking, the downside is you will only be able to use the frontal guns or maybe rear guns.
+
Similar to the [[AF D1]], the {{PAGENAME}} excels in a fire support role. Try to stay at long ranges, where the guns and armour work good together. At close range try to angle or peeking, the downside is you will only be able to use the frontal or rear guns.
  
−
It might be tempting to do boardside with the {{PAGENAME}}. Be advised, however, that the {{PAGENAME}}'s side armor is flat and became very weak when unangled, coupled with terrible mobility, this made you exposed to all source of incoming fire, including torpedoes.
+
Depending on the enemy your face, some weapons on the {{PAGENAME}} might be better than the others. Uses the 105 mm guns is preferred against enemy at long range or a large and/or well-armored vessel to deal high damage, while the 20 mm can be reserved for close-range engagements against faster and more manoeuvrable enemy.
  
−
Players seeking to defeat the {{PAGENAME}} will try to close in from a blind spot or when the {{PAGENAME}} is occupied with other opponents. Use the secondary armaments to deal with these fast-moving boats as the main 105mm guns would be too slow to react to new, close-by threats.
+
It might be tempting to do a broadside with the {{PAGENAME}}. Be advised, however, that the {{PAGENAME}}'s side armour is flat and became very weak when not angled, coupled with terrible mobility, this made you exposed to all source of incoming fire, including torpedoes.
 +
 
 +
Players seeking to defeat the {{PAGENAME}} will try to close in from a blind spot or when the {{PAGENAME}} is occupied with other opponents. Use the secondary armaments to deal with these fast-moving boats, as the main 105 mm guns would be too slow to react to new, close-by threats.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
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'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* 105mm cannons is very effective against all kinds of targets it face, with high destruction power and quick reload time
+
* 105 mm cannons are very effective against all kinds of targets, with high destructive power and quick reload time
−
* 20mm AA cannons is very useful against fast-moving targets and AA duties
+
* 20 mm AA cannons are very useful against fast-moving targets and aircraft
 
* Relatively good survivability when angled correctly
 
* Relatively good survivability when angled correctly
 
* High crew count
 
* High crew count
  
 +
'''Cons:'''
  
−
'''Cons:'''
+
* Terrible top speed and very sluggish to manoeuvre
−
* Terrible top speed and very sluggish to manuerver
 
 
* Large, slow targets makes it very vulnerable against bombs, torpedoes, and rockets
 
* Large, slow targets makes it very vulnerable against bombs, torpedoes, and rockets
−
* Armour quite easily to defeat if not angled
+
* In rough sea conditions, the 105 mm cannon's frontal line of fire can be obstructed by the 20 mm mounts
−
* Angling armour only allow some guns to be used in combat
+
* While thick, the armour is quite flat, thus rendering the barge vulnerable from the boardsides
 +
* Angling armour only allows some guns to be used in combat
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ship 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 ship and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Ship-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 ship'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 ship 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 ship and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Ship-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 ship'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 ship 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 ship and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Ship-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 ship's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
+
[[File:Artilleriefaehrprahm Modell 1.jpg|300px|thumb|right|A 1:100 scale model of the AF Type D landing barge, International Maritime Museum, Hamburg. Note the scale model of the MF Type A landing craft at the back for comparison.]]
 +
The '''Artilleriefährprahm Typ D''' (Artillery Barge Type D) was a modified version of the ''Marinefährprahm Typ A'' (Marine Barge Type A), the largest landing craft class built by the Krigsmarine in World War II. Originally developed in 1941 for Operation Sea Lion, when the plan was cancelled, the barge found its usage in numerous roles it was originally not intended to throughout the war. Over 700 of the barges of various configuration was built.
 +
===AF Typ D===
 +
The AF D was a series of the ''Marinefährprahm Typ A'' modified into a makeship gunboat. The conversion usually varies depending on the shipyard and available materials. Typically, the barge is outfitted with two quadruple 20 mm anti-air cannon mounts, two single 88 mm flak cannons, and one 75 mm anti-air cannon. Although some barge were also outfitted with a 105 mm instead of 88 mm. The helm is moved forward close to the centre of the craft. The craft is often reinforced with armour around the superstructure and ammunition storage, and some have their bulwarks coated with 10 cm of concrete.
  
 +
The AF D barges were primarily used as an escort and minelayer, towing along by other ships. Although some also found itself inland as an artillery support platform.
 
== 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.'' -->
  
−
{{Youtube-gallery|NeZe7Rrc_Qo|War Thunder - AF D3<br>''By: Wulfbane''}}
+
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=germ_artilleriefahrprahm_typ_d3 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|NeZe7Rrc_Qo|''' AF D3''' - ''Wulfbane''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
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* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
''Links to articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
 
−
* ''reference to the series of the ship;''
+
;Related development
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* [[AF D1]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 146: Line 159:
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
 
* ''other literature.'' -->
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
* [[Wikipedia:en:Marinefährprahm|[Wikipedia] Marinefährprahm]]
−
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
+
* [[Wikipedia:de:Marinefährprahm|[Wikipedia.de] Marinefährprahm]] (in German)
−
* ''other literature.''
 
−
 
 
 
{{Germany barges}}
 
{{Germany barges}}

Latest revision as of 09:53, 20 April 2024

Rank VI USA | Premium | Golden Eagles
A-10A Thunderbolt (Early)
This page is about the German barge AF D3. For the 88 mm version, see AF D1.
AF D3
germ_artilleriefahrprahm_typ_d3.png
GarageImage AF D3.jpg
AF D3
Germany flag.png Germany
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
3.3 3.3 3.3
Class:
Research:89 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:300 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Artilleriefährprahm Typ D3 (or AF D3 for short) was a variant of the MF Typ A landing craft converted into a makeshift gunboat after the planned invasion of Great Britain was cancelled. Due to the makeshift conversion plans between shipyards, each AF Typ D landing craft was outfitted with different kinds of armaments and armouring, such as different gun layout and extra concrete coating. The Typ D3, compared to the Typ D1, differed in its armament, featuring heavier 10.5 cm cannons instead of the 8.8 cm Flak cannons. In total, around 700 of AF Typ D of all variants were converted, and they were used either as an auxiliary minelayer towed along by destroyers, or used inland as a fire support gunboat.

Introduced in Update 1.79 "Project X" in the fleet closed beta test, the AF D3 is essentially the AF D1 equipped with larger 105 mm cannons and slightly different AA armaments. The AF D3 generally performs well as a fire support vessel, as the 105 mm cannons offer a major firepower upgrade over the D1's 88 mm Flak, since it is capable of hull-breaking various PT boats with ease, and even capable of going toe-to-toe against early destroyers. However, being originally designed as a landing craft, the AF D3 is completely lacking in mobility, and struggles to handle multiple enemies at once. As such, positioning and proper support is the key to success in playing this makeshift gunboat.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armourfront / side / back
Citadel0 / 40 / 0 mm
Main fire tower15 / 15 / 0 mm
Hull20 mm (steel)
Superstructure4 mm (steel)
Number of section6
Displacement440 t
Crew57 people

Although the armour doesn't cover the whole boat, the survivability is not that bad, as it is a very long boat with lots of empty space inside for shells to go through. It is thus important that enemies with rapid-firing guns do not get too close to the AF D3 as they can riddle the entire boat with shells and hit critical components through the armour.

Staying far from the enemies and attacking them with the 10.5 cm guns is the best way to improve the lifespan of the AF D3.

Mobility

Speedforward / back
AB23 / 11 km/h
RB20 / 10 km/h
Mobility Characteristics
Game Mode Upgrade Status Maximum Speed (km/h) Turn Time (s) Turn Radius (m)
Forward Reverse
AB Stock ___ ___
Upgraded 23 11
RB/SB Stock ___ ___
Upgraded 20 10

Like other German naval barges, the AF D3 has an abysmal top speed of just 20 km/h (RB) and very sluggish turn time. Due to the long hull design, the AF D3 has trouble navigating through various narrow passages and avoiding obstacles and incoming torpedoes.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB4 229 → 5 362 Sl icon.png
RB6 501 → 8 243 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications90 900 Rp icon.png
156 300 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost1 700 Ge icon.png
Crew training87 000 Sl icon.png
Experts300 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 100 Ge icon.png
Research Aces520 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
160 / 210 / 100 % Sl icon.png
172 / 172 / 172 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Seakeeping Unsinkability Firepower
Mods new ship hull.png
Dry-Docking
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 200 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship rudder.png
Rudder Replacement
Research:
3 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship screw.png
Propeller Replacement
Research:
4 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 700 Sl icon.png
230 Ge icon.png
Mods new ship engine.png
Engine Maintenance
Research:
15 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
26 000 Sl icon.png
760 Ge icon.png
Mods ship damage control crew.png
Damage Control Division
Research:
3 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
6 200 Sl icon.png
180 Ge icon.png
Mods ship fire control crew.png
Fire Division
Research:
3 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods engine smoke screen system.png
Smokescreen
Research:
3 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
5 800 Sl icon.png
170 Ge icon.png
Mods ship anti fragmentation protection.png
Shrapnel Protection
Research:
4 500 Rp icon.png
Cost:
7 700 Sl icon.png
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New Pumps
Research:
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Anti-Air Armament Targeting
Research:
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105mm_germany_skc32_navy_base_fuse_he_ammo_pack
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20 mm HET magazines
Research:
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Auxiliary Armament Targeting
Research:
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20 mm APT magazines
Research:
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Primary Armament Targeting
Research:
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Improved Rangefinder
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Depth Charges
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Armament

Primary armament

2 х Turret10.5 cm/45 SK C/32 cannon
Ammunition100 rounds
Vertical guidance-5° / 70°
Main article: SK C/32 (105 mm)

The AF D3 has two 105 mm SK C/32 turrets as its main armament, which is a direct improvement from the 88 mm FlaK from its predecessor. It has higher explosive mass and penetration, with a fast reload time of just 4.64 seconds. The main gun can fire the following ammo types: HE (effective against most targets), HE with base fuse (effective against armoured targets), and HE-TF (for anti-aircraft purposes). The barges can carry up to 200 shells in total.

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
1,000 m 2,500 m 5,000 m 7,500 m 10,000 m 15,000 m
Sprgr. L/4.4 Kpf.Z HE 20 20 20 20 20 20
Sprgr. L/4.4 Bd.Z HE 42 34 25 20 20 20
Sprgr. L/4.4 Zt.Z HE-TF 20 20 20 20 20 20
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead 		Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(s) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
Sprgr. L/4.4 Kpf.Z HE 785 15.1 0 0.1 1,550 79° 80° 81°
Sprgr. L/4.4 Bd.Z HE 785 15.1 0.015 5 1,550 79° 80° 81°
Sprgr. L/4.4 Zt.Z HE-TF 785 15.1 0 0.1 1,550 79° 80° 81°

Secondary armament

2 х Turret4 x 2 cm/65 Flakvierling 38 automatic cannon
Ammunition8000 rounds
Belt capacity40 rounds
Fire rate480 shots/min
2 х Turret15 mm MG M38(t) machine gun
Ammunition2000 rounds
Belt capacity40 rounds
Fire rate300 shots/min
Main articles: 2 cm/65 Flakvierling 38 (20 mm), MG M38(t) (15 mm)

The AF D3 is equipped with two 20 mm Flakvierling AA guns placed at the bridge and stern each. On the SF40 Light, these guns proved to be very effective against most targets the AF D3 might have to face. Due to the gun placement and two fewer gun mounts than the SF40 Leichte, it is somewhat less effective due to less concentrated firepower. However, it is relatively easier to target, as the two gun mount were placed directly frontally and in the rear (as opposed to SF 40 Leichte's diamond placement), this allows the AF D3 to hit the target frontally with relative ease.

  • Universal: AP-T · AP · HEF-T · HEF
  • 20 mm HET magazines: HEF · HEF-T · HEF · AP
  • 20 mm APT magazines: AP · AP-T · AP · HEF

Penetration statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
HEF-T 2 2 2 2 2 2
AP 36 35 27 20 15 11
AP-T 36 35 27 20 15 11
HEF 2 2 2 2 2 2
Shell details
Ammunition Velocity
(m/s) 		Projectile
mass (kg) 		Fuse delay
(m) 		Fuse sensitivity
(mm) 		Explosive mass
(TNT equivalent) (g) 		Ricochet
0% 50% 100%
HEF-T 835 0.12 0 0.1 10.54 79° 80° 81°
AP 785 0.15 - - - 47° 60° 65°
AP-T 785 0.15 - - - 47° 60° 65°
HEF 835 0.12 0 0.1 10.54 79° 80° 81°

Anti-aircraft armament

Turret3.7 cm SK C/30 mounting
Ammunition2000 rounds
Main article: SK C/30 (37 mm)

A single 37 mm SK C/30 cannon is available in the anti-aircraft weapon slot for the AF D3.

3.7 cm SK C/30
Ammo capacity 2,000
Fire rate 30 rounds/minute
Reloading rate 2 seconds
Vertical guidance -10°/+80°
Horizontal guidance ±180°
Targeting speed 17°/s
Targeting vertical speed 13°/s

Additional armament

Setup 14 x WBD depth charge
Main article: WBD depth charge

There are 4 WBD depth charges on the boat. These can be used as a close range weapon, although they only drop behind in your wake.

Usage in battles

Similar to the AF D1, the AF D3 excels in a fire support role. Try to stay at long ranges, where the guns and armour work good together. At close range try to angle or peeking, the downside is you will only be able to use the frontal or rear guns.

Depending on the enemy your face, some weapons on the AF D3 might be better than the others. Uses the 105 mm guns is preferred against enemy at long range or a large and/or well-armored vessel to deal high damage, while the 20 mm can be reserved for close-range engagements against faster and more manoeuvrable enemy.

It might be tempting to do a broadside with the AF D3. Be advised, however, that the AF D3's side armour is flat and became very weak when not angled, coupled with terrible mobility, this made you exposed to all source of incoming fire, including torpedoes.

Players seeking to defeat the AF D3 will try to close in from a blind spot or when the AF D3 is occupied with other opponents. Use the secondary armaments to deal with these fast-moving boats, as the main 105 mm guns would be too slow to react to new, close-by threats.

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • 105 mm cannons are very effective against all kinds of targets, with high destructive power and quick reload time
  • 20 mm AA cannons are very useful against fast-moving targets and aircraft
  • Relatively good survivability when angled correctly
  • High crew count

Cons:

  • Terrible top speed and very sluggish to manoeuvre
  • Large, slow targets makes it very vulnerable against bombs, torpedoes, and rockets
  • In rough sea conditions, the 105 mm cannon's frontal line of fire can be obstructed by the 20 mm mounts
  • While thick, the armour is quite flat, thus rendering the barge vulnerable from the boardsides
  • Angling armour only allows some guns to be used in combat

History

A 1:100 scale model of the AF Type D landing barge, International Maritime Museum, Hamburg. Note the scale model of the MF Type A landing craft at the back for comparison.

The Artilleriefährprahm Typ D (Artillery Barge Type D) was a modified version of the Marinefährprahm Typ A (Marine Barge Type A), the largest landing craft class built by the Krigsmarine in World War II. Originally developed in 1941 for Operation Sea Lion, when the plan was cancelled, the barge found its usage in numerous roles it was originally not intended to throughout the war. Over 700 of the barges of various configuration was built.

AF Typ D

The AF D was a series of the Marinefährprahm Typ A modified into a makeship gunboat. The conversion usually varies depending on the shipyard and available materials. Typically, the barge is outfitted with two quadruple 20 mm anti-air cannon mounts, two single 88 mm flak cannons, and one 75 mm anti-air cannon. Although some barge were also outfitted with a 105 mm instead of 88 mm. The helm is moved forward close to the centre of the craft. The craft is often reinforced with armour around the superstructure and ammunition storage, and some have their bulwarks coated with 10 cm of concrete.

The AF D barges were primarily used as an escort and minelayer, towing along by other ships. Although some also found itself inland as an artillery support platform.

Media

Skins
Videos
AF D3 - Wulfbane

See also

Related development

External links

Germany barges
Anti-air ferries  SF40 Light · SF40 Heavy
Naval ferry barges  AF D1 · AF D3

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