Difference between revisions of "AU-1"

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== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
−
<!--''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.'' -->
  
−
Compared to similarly tiered fighters, the AU-1 has mediocre flight performance, though the powerful engine and corsair airframe allow it to perform decently as a support fighter at low alt when played to its strengths and not carrying ordinance. Although speed at low altitude is great, manoeuvrability is average at best, sustained climb is below average (though it can zoom climb decently well below 2000m), and high-altitude performance is significantly lacking. Compared to other attackers, the AU-1 has above average speed and roll rate. It can not turn as tightly as soviet attackers or the skyraiders, but it is more effective at boom and zoom tactics than its contemporary attackers. Compared to other single-engine attack planes, it can carry a larger bomb load, but flight performance is hindered more by payloads than other attackers. While the controls stiffen more than other corsairs at high speeds, the AU-1 can still reliably outrun nearly all axis props it faces if it is able to get up to speed, which it will be able to maintain longer than these opponents after a dive. Jets, La-7s, La-9s, Do 335s, and Yak-3s with upgraded engines can catch the AU-1 at low altitudes.  
+
Compared to similarly tiered fighters, the AU-1 has mediocre flight performance, though the powerful engine and Corsair airframe allow it to perform decently as a support fighter at low alt when played to its strengths and not carrying ordnance. Although speed at low altitude is great, manoeuvrability is average at best, sustained climb is below average (though it can zoom climb decently well below 2,000 m), and high-altitude performance is significantly lacking. Compared to other attackers, the AU-1 has above average speed and roll rate. It cannot turn as tightly as Soviet attackers or the Skyraiders, but it is more effective at boom and zoom tactics than its contemporary attackers. Compared to other single-engine attack planes, it can carry a larger bomb load, but flight performance is hindered more by payloads. While the controls stiffen more than other Corsairs at high speeds, the AU-1 can still reliably outrun nearly all axis props it faces if it is able to get up to speed, which it will be able to maintain longer than these opponents after a dive. Jets, La-7s, La-9s, Do 335s, and Yak-3s with upgraded engines can catch the AU-1 at low altitudes.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
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|-
 
|-
 
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 470 || 278 || 245 || ~10 || ~3
 
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 470 || 278 || 245 || ~10 || ~3
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 450 || < 220 || < 390 || > 450
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
<!--''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 AU-1 is a more heavily armoured variant of the [[F4U (Family)]], and as such has good survivability.
 
The AU-1 is a more heavily armoured variant of the [[F4U (Family)]], and as such has good survivability.
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== 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).'' -->
  
 
'''Armament''':
 
'''Armament''':
  
−
The AU-1's defining characteristic is its ability to carry incredible amounts of suspended armament--as much as a [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]] heavy bomber. In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 can destroy two bases (bombing points), and in Ground Realistic battles, the plane has the potential to absolutely devastating against enemy ground forces. From carpet bombing, rocket barrages or precision drops, this plane can do it all.
+
The AU-1's defining characteristic is its ability to carry incredible amounts of suspended armament - as much as a [[B-17 (Family)|B-17]] heavy bomber. In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 can destroy two bases (bombing points), and in Ground Realistic battles, the plane has the potential to be absolutely devastating against enemy ground forces. From carpet bombing, rocket barrages or precision drops, this plane can do it all.
  
−
Additionally, the four cannons provide very effective frontal armament (they're some of the best 20 mm cannons in the game) and the high ammunition count is a nice bonus, too. They wreak havoc on enemy aircraft, deal considerable damage to lightly armoured tanks and wheeled vehicles, and in Air realistic battles can destroy light pillboxes and light tanks.
+
Additionally, the four cannons provide very effective frontal armament (they're some of the best 20 mm cannons in the game) and the high ammunition count is a nice bonus, too. They wreak havoc on enemy aircraft, deal considerable damage to lightly armoured tanks and wheeled vehicles, and in Air Realistic battles can destroy light pillboxes and light tanks.
  
 
'''Flight Performance''':
 
'''Flight Performance''':
  
−
But despite the AU-1's incredible ground-attack capabilities, it has poor flight performance. It is less maneuverable than other corsairs and single-engine attackers and is extremely sluggish when carrying payloads. If engaging enemy fighters, it is imperative to maintain speed as you can not rely on maneuverability or acceleration to stay alive.
+
Despite the AU-1's incredible ground-attack capabilities, it has poor flight performance. It is less manoeuvrable than other Corsairs and single-engine attackers and is extremely sluggish when carrying payloads. If engaging enemy fighters, it is imperative to maintain speed as you can not rely on manoeuvrability or acceleration to stay alive.
  
−
In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 receives an attacker air-spawn. However, it climbs poorly above 2000 meters and its engine is quite weak at high altitudes, so players will be unable to take full advantage of the air-spawn. If flown as a support fighter, the AU-1 is most effective when flown straight at climbing fighters, then baiting them to low altitude in high speed dives where it has a speed advantage and can perform to the best of its abilities.
+
In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 receives an attacker air-spawn. However, it climbs poorly above 2,000 meters and its engine is quite weak at high altitudes, so players will be unable to take full advantage of the air-spawn. If flown as a support fighter, the AU-1 is most effective when flown straight at climbing fighters, then baiting them to low altitude in high speed dives where it has a speed advantage and can perform to the best of its abilities.
  
−
As for speed, the aircraft is capable but less so than its counterparts. In a high-speed dive, the elevator tends to compress worse than other corsairs, but is still responsive enough
+
As for speed, the aircraft is capable but less so than its counterparts. In a high-speed dive, the elevator tends to compress worse than other Corsairs, but is still responsive enough
  
 
'''Recommended Play-styles''':
 
'''Recommended Play-styles''':
  
−
Due to its poor flight capabilities, it is not recommended that the AU-1 be used in a fighter role. Instead, it may be used to destroy ground targets in Air RB or to destroy enemy ground forces in Ground RB. Remember that this aircraft, if left alone, can deal incredible damage with its bombs, rockets, and cannons. But, also keep in mind that enemy fighters and SPAA will not struggle to shoot it down.
+
Due to its poor flight capabilities, it is not recommended that the AU-1 be used in a fighter role. Instead, it may be used to destroy ground targets in Air RB or to destroy enemy ground forces in Ground RB. Remember that this aircraft, if left alone, can deal incredible damage with its bombs, rockets, and cannons. But, also keep in mind that enemy fighters and SPAA will not struggle to shoot it down.
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
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| Cover
 
| Cover
 
|
 
|
−
| LBC mk.1
+
| LBC mk.I
 
| LFRC mk.12
 
| LFRC mk.12
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="7" |This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase
+
! colspan="7" | This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!--''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".''-->
+
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
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* Low repair cost (2,720 SL basic max repair cost)
 
* Low repair cost (2,720 SL basic max repair cost)
 
* Powerful engine at low altitude, can maintain speed gained in dives better than many fighters it faces
 
* Powerful engine at low altitude, can maintain speed gained in dives better than many fighters it faces
−
* Good speed and energy retention below 2000m
+
* Good speed and energy retention below 2,000 m
 
* Relatively easy to keep engine cool on 1st supercharger gear
 
* Relatively easy to keep engine cool on 1st supercharger gear
 
* Four M3 cannons are very effective against enemy planes.
 
* Four M3 cannons are very effective against enemy planes.
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* Less engine power than F4U-4B and power drops off more quickly as altitude increases
 
* Less engine power than F4U-4B and power drops off more quickly as altitude increases
 
* Flight performance is significantly hindered when carrying ordinance, more so than other attackers.
 
* Flight performance is significantly hindered when carrying ordinance, more so than other attackers.
−
* Bad maneuverability at low speeds
+
* Bad manoeuvrability at low speeds
  
 
== 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).'' -->
 +
{{main|F4U Corsair (History)|l1=F4U Corsair History}}
  
−
''Main article'': '''''[[F4U Corsair History]]'''''
+
The AU-1 stood out from the rest of the Corsair variants, as it was not designed as a fighter, but as a dedicated ground-attack aircraft. The F4U-6 was developed from the F4U-5 series, and as such had similar characteristics. It had the same metal skinned wing panels and blown cockpit design as the F4U-5 series. It was designed as a low altitude ground attack aircraft, and as such had a large number of modifications that other Corsairs did not receive.
  
−
The AU-1 stood out from the rest of the Corsair variants, as it was not designed as a fighter, but as a dedicated ground-attack aircraft. The F4U-6 was developed from the F4U-5  series, and as such had similar characteristics. It had the same metal skinned wing panels and blown cockpit design as the F4U-5 series. It was designed as a low altitude ground attack aircraft, and as such had a large number of modifications that other Corsairs did not receive.
+
The XFU-6 prototype, a modified F4U-5N, first flew on January 31, 1952. It had been renamed the XAU-1. Because the AU-1 was designed for low altitude ground attack, and not high altitude flying, the two-stage, variable-speed supercharger from the F4U-5 was replaced by the R2800-83W engine with a single-stage, manually controlled supercharger. This optimized the plane for low altitude flying. The R2800-83W did not require scoops on the cheeks. Ordinance options were also increased. The wing pylon count was ten, an increase from eight. There were five pylons on each wing. Each wing pylon could carry a 5 in HVAR rocket, a 100 lb bomb, or a 250 lb bomb. To carry 500 lb bombs on the wing pylons, only the outer, middle, and inner pylons could be used, for a total of six 500 lb bombs. The AU-1 also kept the three fuselage pylons, which could carry drop tanks, 1,000 lb bombs, and the centre pylon could hold up to a 2,000 lb bomb. Napalm bombs, Bat glide bombs, and Tiny Tim rockets could also be carried. The primary armament was the same four 20 mm cannons from the F4U-5, with 231 rounds for each gun. These cannons were modified for the AU-1 so that they could be fired in pairs or together. If fired in pairs, the firing time was increased by one hundred percent. Because the AU-1 would be flying low altitude missions, it would require extra armour to protect the pilot, engine, and fuel tank from ground fire. 25 armor pieces were added, and the oil coolers were moved from the nose to the wing roots, protecting them from ground fire towards the front of the plane. The AU-1 was an exceptional ground attack plane, but it had reduced speed and manoeuvrability compared to the other Corsair variants.
−
 
 
−
The XFU-6 prototype, a modified F4U-5N, first flew on January 31, 1952. It had been renamed the XAU-1. Because the AU-1 was designed for low altitude ground attack, and not high altitude flying, the two-stage, variable-speed supercharger from the F4U-5 was replaced by the R2800-83W engine with a single-stage, manually controlled supercharger. This optimized the plane for low altitude flying. The R2800-83W did not require scoops on the cheeks. Ordinance options were also increased. The wing pylon count was ten, an increase from eight. There were five pylons on each wing. Each wing pylon could carry a 5 in HVAR rocket, a 100 lb bomb, or a 250 lb bomb. To carry 500 lb bombs on the wing pylons, only the outer, middle, and inner pylons could be used, for a total of six 500 lb bombs. The AU-1 also kept the three fuselage pylons, which could carry drop tanks, 1,000 lb bombs, and the centre pylon could hold up to a 2,000 lb bomb. Napalm bombs, Bat glide bombs, and Tiny Tim rockets could also be carried. The primary armament was the same four 20 mm cannons from the F4U-5, with 231 rounds for each gun. These cannons were modified for the AU-1 so that they could be fired in pairs or together. If fired in pairs, the firing time was increased by one hundred percent. Because the AU-1 would be flying low altitude missions, it would require extra armour to protect the pilot, engine, and fuel tank from ground fire. 25 armor pieces were added, and the oil coolers were moved from the nose to the wing roots, protecting them from ground fire towards the front of the plane. The AU-1 was an exceptional ground attack plane, but it had reduced speed and manoeuvrability compared to the other Corsair variants.  
 
  
 
111 AU-1 aircraft were produced by Vought, and they were delivered between February 7 and October 10, 1952. They saw service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. They served with Marine squadrons during the second half of the Korean War, and the AU-1 was retired by the Navy reserves in 1956 and the Marine Corps in 1957. During the First Indochina War, 25 Marine AU-1s were given to France, and they were returned to the United States afterwards. Several AU-1s were given to the French Navy, and they served until 1964.
 
111 AU-1 aircraft were produced by Vought, and they were delivered between February 7 and October 10, 1952. They saw service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. They served with Marine squadrons during the second half of the Korean War, and the AU-1 was retired by the Navy reserves in 1956 and the Marine Corps in 1957. During the First Indochina War, 25 Marine AU-1s were given to France, and they were returned to the United States afterwards. Several AU-1s were given to the French Navy, and they served until 1964.
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== See also ==
 
== See also ==
−
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
−
 
 
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
−
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
−
 
+
* The AU-1 is part of the [[F4U (Family)|F4U]] family of aircraft. Its closest relative in-game is the [[F4U-4B]]. Unlike other members of the F4U Corsair family, the AU-1 is primarily a ground-attack aircraft.
−
The AU-1 is part of the [[F4U (Family)|F4U]] family of aircraft. Its closest relative in-game is the [[F4U-4B]]. Unlike other members of the F4U Corsair family, the AU-1 is primarily a ground-attack aircraft.
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
−
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
−
 
 
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
 
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
−
* ''other literature.''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
 +
 
 +
=== Bibliography ===
 +
 
 +
* "[https://www.jdsf4u.be/f4u-6-au-1-vought-corsair F4U-6 / AU-1 Vought Corsair]", ''F4U Corsair - The Bent Wing Bird plane site''
 +
* "[https://www.jdsf4u.be/type-of-plane-f4u Types of Plane F4U - Variants]", ''F4U Corsair - The Bent Wing Bird plane site''
  
 
{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
 
{{AirManufacturer Vought}}
 
{{USA attackers}}
 
{{USA attackers}}
 
{{USA premium aircraft}}
 
{{USA premium aircraft}}
−
 
−
== Bibliography ==
 
−
 
−
* "[https://www.jdsf4u.be/f4u-6-au-1-vought-corsair F4U-6 / AU-1 Vought Corsair]", ''F4U Corsair - The Bent Wing Bird plane site''
 
−
* "[https://www.jdsf4u.be/type-of-plane-f4u Types of Plane F4U - Variants]", ''F4U Corsair - The Bent Wing Bird plane site''
 

Revision as of 13:12, 12 June 2020

AU-1
f4u-6_au-1.png
AU-1
USA flag.png USA
IV Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
5.7 5.7 5.7
Class:
PREMIUM
Purchase:Bundle or Gift
Show in game
MARKET
This page is about the American attacker AU-1. For other versions, see F4U (Family).

Description

GarageImage AU-1.jpg


The AU-1 Corsair is a premium gift rank IV American attacker with a battle rating of 5.7 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced during Update 1.97 "Viking Fury" as a reward for the "Space Race" event.

General info

Flight performance

Compared to similarly tiered fighters, the AU-1 has mediocre flight performance, though the powerful engine and Corsair airframe allow it to perform decently as a support fighter at low alt when played to its strengths and not carrying ordnance. Although speed at low altitude is great, manoeuvrability is average at best, sustained climb is below average (though it can zoom climb decently well below 2,000 m), and high-altitude performance is significantly lacking. Compared to other attackers, the AU-1 has above average speed and roll rate. It cannot turn as tightly as Soviet attackers or the Skyraiders, but it is more effective at boom and zoom tactics than its contemporary attackers. Compared to other single-engine attack planes, it can carry a larger bomb load, but flight performance is hindered more by payloads. While the controls stiffen more than other Corsairs at high speeds, the AU-1 can still reliably outrun nearly all axis props it faces if it is able to get up to speed, which it will be able to maintain longer than these opponents after a dive. Jets, La-7s, La-9s, Do 335s, and Yak-3s with upgraded engines can catch the AU-1 at low altitudes.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 4,267 m) 		Max altitude
(metres) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(metres/second) 		Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock ___ ___ 9500 __._ __._ __._ __._ 500
Upgraded 674 638 20.9 22.0 25.4 19.0

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ X ✓
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
0 730 470 278 245 ~10 ~3
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 450 < 220 < 390 > 450

Survivability and armour

The AU-1 is a more heavily armoured variant of the F4U (Family), and as such has good survivability.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: M3 (20 mm)

The AU-1 is armed with:

  • 4 x 20 mm M3 cannons, wing-mounted (246 rpg = 984 total)

Suspended armament

Main articles: AN-M57 (250 lb), AN-M64A1 (500 lb), AN-M65A1 (1,000 lb), AN-Mk 1 (1,600 lb), AN-M66A2 (2,000 lb)
Main articles: HVAR, Tiny Tim

The AU-1 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (2,500 lb total)
  • 3 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (1,500 lb total)
  • 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
  • 9 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (4,500 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs (3,000 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (5,500 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (6,000 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs (4,800 lb total)
  • 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs + 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (8,200 lb total)
  • 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb (2,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs (7,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs + 10 x 250 lb AN-M57 bombs (7,700 lb total)
  • 10 x HVAR rockets
  • 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 10 x HVAR rockets (4,000 lb total)
  • 1 x 2,000 lb AN-M66A2 bomb + 2 x 1,600 lb AN-Mk 1 bombs + 10 x HVAR rockets (5,200 lb total)
  • 3 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 bombs + 10 x HVAR rockets (3,000 lb total)
  • 3 x Tiny Tim rockets
  • 3 x Tiny Tim rockets + 10 x HVAR rockets
  • 6 x 500 lb AN-M64A1 bombs + 3 x Tiny Tim rockets (3,000 lb total)

Usage in battles

Armament:

The AU-1's defining characteristic is its ability to carry incredible amounts of suspended armament - as much as a B-17 heavy bomber. In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 can destroy two bases (bombing points), and in Ground Realistic battles, the plane has the potential to be absolutely devastating against enemy ground forces. From carpet bombing, rocket barrages or precision drops, this plane can do it all.

Additionally, the four cannons provide very effective frontal armament (they're some of the best 20 mm cannons in the game) and the high ammunition count is a nice bonus, too. They wreak havoc on enemy aircraft, deal considerable damage to lightly armoured tanks and wheeled vehicles, and in Air Realistic battles can destroy light pillboxes and light tanks.

Flight Performance:

Despite the AU-1's incredible ground-attack capabilities, it has poor flight performance. It is less manoeuvrable than other Corsairs and single-engine attackers and is extremely sluggish when carrying payloads. If engaging enemy fighters, it is imperative to maintain speed as you can not rely on manoeuvrability or acceleration to stay alive.

In Air Realistic battles, the AU-1 receives an attacker air-spawn. However, it climbs poorly above 2,000 meters and its engine is quite weak at high altitudes, so players will be unable to take full advantage of the air-spawn. If flown as a support fighter, the AU-1 is most effective when flown straight at climbing fighters, then baiting them to low altitude in high speed dives where it has a speed advantage and can perform to the best of its abilities.

As for speed, the aircraft is capable but less so than its counterparts. In a high-speed dive, the elevator tends to compress worse than other Corsairs, but is still responsive enough

Recommended Play-styles:

Due to its poor flight capabilities, it is not recommended that the AU-1 be used in a fighter role. Instead, it may be used to destroy ground targets in Air RB or to destroy enemy ground forces in Ground RB. Remember that this aircraft, if left alone, can deal incredible damage with its bombs, rockets, and cannons. But, also keep in mind that enemy fighters and SPAA will not struggle to shoot it down.

Manual Engine Control

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

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage repair Radiator Offensive 20 mm FMBC mk.1
II Compressor Airframe FLBC mk.1 FRC mk.2
III Wings repair Engine New 20 mm cannons AN-Mk 1
IV G-suit Engine injection Cover LBC mk.I LFRC mk.12
This is a premium vehicle: all modifications are unlocked on purchase

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Many load-out options provide flexibility for any battle situation
  • Strong ground-attack capability; armour plates are located in the underbelly of the plane to protect it from machine gun fire
  • Central bombs/tiny tims can be dropped/fired individually, wing bombs/HVARs dropped/fired in pairs
  • Can achieve missions for attackers while still receiving premium bonus (RP & SL)
  • Premium bonuses (344% RP, 360% SL as basic multipliers)
  • Low repair cost (2,720 SL basic max repair cost)
  • Powerful engine at low altitude, can maintain speed gained in dives better than many fighters it faces
  • Good speed and energy retention below 2,000 m
  • Relatively easy to keep engine cool on 1st supercharger gear
  • Four M3 cannons are very effective against enemy planes.
  • Decent flight performance at low altitude

Cons:

  • While flight performance at low altitude is similar to the F4U-4B, it is worse in every aspect
    • Worse turn rate, slower acceleration & climb rate, lower top speed, and worse energy retention
  • Weak high-altitude performance
  • Less engine power than F4U-4B and power drops off more quickly as altitude increases
  • Flight performance is significantly hindered when carrying ordinance, more so than other attackers.
  • Bad manoeuvrability at low speeds

History

Main article: F4U Corsair History

The AU-1 stood out from the rest of the Corsair variants, as it was not designed as a fighter, but as a dedicated ground-attack aircraft. The F4U-6 was developed from the F4U-5 series, and as such had similar characteristics. It had the same metal skinned wing panels and blown cockpit design as the F4U-5 series. It was designed as a low altitude ground attack aircraft, and as such had a large number of modifications that other Corsairs did not receive.

The XFU-6 prototype, a modified F4U-5N, first flew on January 31, 1952. It had been renamed the XAU-1. Because the AU-1 was designed for low altitude ground attack, and not high altitude flying, the two-stage, variable-speed supercharger from the F4U-5 was replaced by the R2800-83W engine with a single-stage, manually controlled supercharger. This optimized the plane for low altitude flying. The R2800-83W did not require scoops on the cheeks. Ordinance options were also increased. The wing pylon count was ten, an increase from eight. There were five pylons on each wing. Each wing pylon could carry a 5 in HVAR rocket, a 100 lb bomb, or a 250 lb bomb. To carry 500 lb bombs on the wing pylons, only the outer, middle, and inner pylons could be used, for a total of six 500 lb bombs. The AU-1 also kept the three fuselage pylons, which could carry drop tanks, 1,000 lb bombs, and the centre pylon could hold up to a 2,000 lb bomb. Napalm bombs, Bat glide bombs, and Tiny Tim rockets could also be carried. The primary armament was the same four 20 mm cannons from the F4U-5, with 231 rounds for each gun. These cannons were modified for the AU-1 so that they could be fired in pairs or together. If fired in pairs, the firing time was increased by one hundred percent. Because the AU-1 would be flying low altitude missions, it would require extra armour to protect the pilot, engine, and fuel tank from ground fire. 25 armor pieces were added, and the oil coolers were moved from the nose to the wing roots, protecting them from ground fire towards the front of the plane. The AU-1 was an exceptional ground attack plane, but it had reduced speed and manoeuvrability compared to the other Corsair variants.

111 AU-1 aircraft were produced by Vought, and they were delivered between February 7 and October 10, 1952. They saw service with the US Navy and Marine Corps. They served with Marine squadrons during the second half of the Korean War, and the AU-1 was retired by the Navy reserves in 1956 and the Marine Corps in 1957. During the First Indochina War, 25 Marine AU-1s were given to France, and they were returned to the United States afterwards. Several AU-1s were given to the French Navy, and they served until 1964.

Media

Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.

See also

  • The AU-1 is part of the F4U family of aircraft. Its closest relative in-game is the F4U-4B. Unlike other members of the F4U Corsair family, the AU-1 is primarily a ground-attack aircraft.

External links

Bibliography


Chance Vought Aircraft
Fighters 
Corsair  F4U-1A · F4U-1A (USMC) · F4U-1C · F4U-1D · F4U-4 · F4U-4B · F4U-4B VMF-214
Float planes  OS2U-1 · OS2U-3
Attackers  AU-1
Bombers  SB2U-2 · SB2U-3
Jet aircraft 
Corsair II  A-7D · A-7E · A-7K
Crusader  F8U-2 · F-8E
Export  V-156-B1 · V-156-F · ▄Corsair F Mk II · F4U-7 · ▄F-8E(FN)
Captured  ▅F4U-1A

USA strike aircraft
Douglas  A-20G-25 · A-26B-10 · A-26B-50 · A2D-1 · AD-2 · AD-4 · A-1H
North American  A-36 · PBJ-1H · PBJ-1J
Other  AM-1 · AU-1 · XA-38

USA premium aircraft
Fighters  Thach's F2A-1 · Galer's F3F-2 · F2G-1 · F4U-4B VMF-214 · P-26A-34 · P-40C · P-43A-1
  P-47M-1-RE · ⋠P-47M-1-RE · P-51A · P-51D-10 · P-51D-20-NA · ␠Kingcobra · XP-55
  ▃A6M2 · ▃Ki-43-II · ▃Ki-61-Ib · ▃Bf 109 F-4 · ▃Fw 190 A-8 · ▃Spitfire LF Mk IXc
Twin-engine fighters  XP-38G · Bong's P-38J-15 · P-38K · YP-38 · P-61A-11 · XF5F · XP-50 · F7F-3
Jet fighters  P-59A · F-86F-35 · F-89B · F-89D · F-4S Phantom II · F-5C · F-20A
Strike aircraft  A-1H · A2D-1 · AU-1 · XA-38 · AV-8A · A-6E TRAM · A-10A
Bombers  A-26C-45DT · B-10B · BTD-1 · PBM-3 "Mariner" · PV-2D

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