Difference between revisions of "Black Prince"

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[[File:GarageImage_Black Prince.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
[[File:GarageImage_Black Prince.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
{{break}}
 
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The '''A.43 Black Prince''' is a Rank IV gift British infantry tank with a battle rating of 6.0. The tank was added in [[Update_1.53_"Firestorm"|Update 1.53 "Firestorm"]] and is one of the first British tanks to be introduced into the game. The vehicle is a modified Churchill tank, featuring heavier armour and a heavier primary armament, which gives it superior firepower and protection at the cost of the vehicle's mobility.
+
The '''A.43 Black Prince''' is a Rank IV gift British infantry tank with a battle rating of 6.0. The tank was added in [[Update_1.53_"Firestorm"|Update 1.53 "Firestorm"]] and is one of the first British tanks to be introduced into the game. It was initially available as a pre-order pack from the Gaijin store, but was discontinued after the [[wt:en/news/5232-shop-winter-sales-special-bundle-and-gift-certificates-en|2017 Winter sales]].
  
The A43 Black Prince has the legendary OQF-17 Pounder Cannon; this cannon was made famous by the '''[[Sherman Firefly|Sherman Firefly]]''', '''[[Achilles|M10 Achilles]]''' and its ability to destroy the German 8.8 cm heavy tanks such as the [[Tiger_H1|Tiger tank]] It also features a single 7.62 mm BESA machine gun, which works great for destroying light tanks and SPAA vehicles.
+
The A43 Black Prince is a modified Churchill tank equipped with the legendary OQF-17 Pounder cannon; a weapon made famous by the '''[[Sherman Firefly|Sherman Firefly]]''', '''[[Achilles|M10 Achilles]]''' and its ability to destroy the German 8.8 cm heavy tanks such as the [[Tiger_H1|Tiger tank]] It also features a single 7.62 mm BESA machine gun, which works great for destroying light tanks and SPAA vehicles.
  
 
The A43 Black prince makes enemy players retreat in fear, as it offers one of the most powerful guns available in the game, capable of destroying a [[Ferdinand|Ferdinand]], [[IS-2]] and other tanks from over 1 km away. The reloading time is great for its rank, at a mere 7.6s and when coupled with the tank's heavy armour, can stand as quite a lethal opponent.  
 
The A43 Black prince makes enemy players retreat in fear, as it offers one of the most powerful guns available in the game, capable of destroying a [[Ferdinand|Ferdinand]], [[IS-2]] and other tanks from over 1 km away. The reloading time is great for its rank, at a mere 7.6s and when coupled with the tank's heavy armour, can stand as quite a lethal opponent.  
  
However, the Black Prince does have some negatives. The extra armour adds extra weight to the vehicle, which makes it rather slow with a top speed of 10MPH and only -1MPH reverse speed. With the tank's low profile, it makes it difficult to see over foreign obstacles such as debris, hills and walls. The A43 is a rather long tank, and as such, it's not impossible to get wedged between ditches, or get stuck when climbing over an obstacle, as the vehicle lacks sufficient engine power required to pull itself over the obstacles. The only weakness in the Black Prince's excellent armour is along the sides, and its vulnerability to HE rounds, which will often bounce and enter through the roof. The ammunition is located along the sides of the vehicle, making these a primary weakspot for enemy players to target.
+
However, the Black Prince does have some negatives. The extra armour adds extra weight to the vehicle, which makes it extremely slow with a top speed of 10MPH and only -1MPH reverse speed. With the tank's low profile, it makes it difficult to see over foreign obstacles such as debris, hills and walls.  
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
<!--''Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpfull for survival in combat?''
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<!--Describe armour protection. Note the most well protected and key weak areas. Appreciate the layout of modules as well as the number and location of crew members. Is the level of armour protection sufficient, is the placement of modules helpful for survival in combat?
  
''If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.''-->
+
If necessary use a visual template to indicate the most secure and weak zones of the armour.-->
 
'''Armour type:'''
 
'''Armour type:'''
 +
 
* Rolled homogeneous armour
 
* Rolled homogeneous armour
 
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret front, Turret sides, Cupola)
 
* Cast homogeneous armour (Turret front, Turret sides, Cupola)
 +
 +
Its vulnerable to HE rounds, which will often bounce and enter through the roof. The ammunition is located along the sides of the vehicle, making these a primary weak spot for enemy players to target.
 +
 +
The A43 Black Prince has one of the thickest armour installations of any tanks. The front is able to be continuously hit by larger and more powerful calibre tanks at close range without taking much, if any damage. However, if you come up against a tank shooting HEAT or HE rounds they will likely penetrate the armour with ease. Do not expose the sides to the enemy player, as it is one of the weakest parts of the tank, seconded only to the lower front part of the turret. Not only that, the sides contain the location of the ammunition; If it is hit, it is likely to detonate. If the ammunition does not detonate, the vehicle's crew will be incapacitated.
 +
 +
It lacks a top-mounted machine gun, which is normally a deterrent against low flying aircraft, making the vehicle more vulnerable to be attacks by a planes, and an easy target for bombers. The turret's slow traverse speed also makes the use of the internal machine gun useless against aircraft attacks.
 +
Due to the low profile of this tank, being hit in the lower front turret is a rare occurrence. You still need to be careful of HEAT and HE rounds, as the low profile design will allow the enemy rounds to enter the turret's machine gun port and either knock out the loader: if using an APCR or solid shot round, OR, if using other rounds such as APCBC, APBC and HEAT, it is very likely that all the turret crew will be eliminated.
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|align="center" colspan="6"| '''Tank Armour Table'''
+
| colspan="6" align="center" | '''Tank Armour Table'''
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
 
! Armour !! Front !! Sides !! Rear !! Roof
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|}
 
|}
 
'''Notes:'''
 
'''Notes:'''
 +
 
* Suspension wheels and chassis construction are 20 mm thick while tracks are 30 mm thick.
 
* Suspension wheels and chassis construction are 20 mm thick while tracks are 30 mm thick.
 
* Belly armour is 18-25 mm thick.
 
* Belly armour is 18-25 mm thick.
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=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
<!--''Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and maneuverability as well as the maximum speed forward and backward.''-->
+
<!--Write about the mobility of the ground vehicle. Estimate the specific power and manoeuvrability, as well as the maximum speed forwards and backwards.-->
 +
When playing this tank you will, immediately notice the speed and length, it is not a fast tank. You will also notice that it can sometimes struggle to get up hills and small embankments. It is recommended, to stay on flat terrain and to make small sharp turns. This will keep more momentum than a single big turn which will lose most of your much needed momentum.
 +
 
 +
The A43 is a rather long tank making it almost impossible to get wedged between ditches, but the vehicle lacks sufficient engine power required to pull itself over the obstacles and often gets stuck when climbing over them.
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
!colspan="3" | Mobility characteristic
+
! colspan="3" | Mobility characteristic
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Weight (tons)
 
! Weight (tons)
!colspan="1" | Add-on Armour<br>weight (tons)
+
! colspan="1" | Add-on Armour<br>weight (tons)
!colspan="1" | Max speed (km/h)
+
! colspan="1" | Max speed (km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
|rowspan="2" | 50.0 || colspan="1" rowspan="2" | N/A || colspan="1" | 18.3 (AB)  
+
| rowspan="2" | 50.0 || colspan="1" rowspan="2" | N/A || colspan="1" | 18.3 (AB)  
 
|-
 
|-
 
|17.2 (RB/SB)
 
|17.2 (RB/SB)
 
|-
 
|-
!colspan="3" | Engine power (horsepower)
+
! colspan="3" | Engine power (horsepower)
 
|-
 
|-
!colspan="1" | Mode
+
! colspan="1" | Mode
 
!Stock
 
!Stock
 
!Upgraded
 
!Upgraded
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|350
 
|350
 
|-
 
|-
!colspan="3" | Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
+
! colspan="3" | Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
 
|-
 
|-
!colspan="1" | Mode
+
! colspan="1" | Mode
 
!Stock
 
!Stock
 
!Upgraded
 
!Upgraded
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== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
=== Main armament ===
 
=== Main armament ===
<!--''Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibilty of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.''-->
+
<!--Give the reader information about the characteristics of the main gun. Assess its effectiveness in a battle based on the reloading speed, ballistics and the power of shells. Do not forget about the flexibility of the fire, that is how quickly the cannon can be aimed at the target, open fire on it and aim at another enemy. Add a link to the main article on the gun: <code><nowiki>{{main|Name of the weapon}}</nowiki></code>. Describe in general terms the ammunition available for the main gun. Give advice on how to use them and how to fill the ammunition storage.-->
 
{{main|Ordnance QF 17-pounder (76 mm)}}
 
{{main|Ordnance QF 17-pounder (76 mm)}}
 +
 +
However, the A43 Black Prince does have one of the most powerful cannons in the game, and is capable of destroying tiger tanks and other heavily armoured vehicles from short to long distances, and is equipped with many different ammunition types which are viable for different situations. The APDS is the recommended choice for giving the gun the full potential of being capable of destroying more heavily armoured targets at longer ranges.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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! 2000m
 
! 2000m
 
|-
 
|-
| Shot Mk.6 || AP || 160 || 157 || 133 || 112 || 96 || 86
+
| Shot Mk.6 || AP || 171 || 168 || 155 || 139 || 126 || 113
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Shell Mk.1 || HE || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9  
 
| Shell Mk.1 || HE || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9 || 9  
 
|-
 
|-
| Shot Mk.4 || APC || 165 || 160 || 138 || 108 || 94 || 81
+
| Shot Mk.4 || APC || 171 || 168 || 155 || 139 || 126 || 113
 
|-
 
|-
| Shot Mk.8 || APCBC || 171 || 168 || 156 || 143 || 130 || 120
+
| Shot Mk.8 || APCBC || 190 || 187 || 172 || 155 || 140 || 126
 
|-
 
|-
 
| Shot SV Mk.1 || APDS || 228 || 226 || 207 || 189 || 159 || 134  
 
| Shot SV Mk.1 || APDS || 228 || 226 || 207 || 189 || 159 || 134  
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| Shell Mk.1 || '''HE''' - '''H'''igh '''E'''xplosive ('''HE''') || It is ideal for destroying SPAA and Lightly armoured tanks
 
| Shell Mk.1 || '''HE''' - '''H'''igh '''E'''xplosive ('''HE''') || It is ideal for destroying SPAA and Lightly armoured tanks
 
|-
 
|-
| Shot Mk.4 || '''APC''' - '''A'''rmor '''P'''iercing '''C'''ap || When the standard round fails to penetrate
+
| Shot Mk.4 || '''APC''' - '''A'''rmor '''P'''iercing '''C'''ap || Standard round / Medium shrapnel spalling damage , Medium tanks
 
|-
 
|-
| Shot Mk.6 || '''AP''' - '''A'''rmour '''P'''iercing || It is able to to knocking out crew and vital parts such as engines, tract, cannons etc.
+
| Shot Mk.6 || '''AP''' - '''A'''rmour '''P'''iercing || Standard round / Low shrapnel spalling damage, medium , light tanks
 
|-
 
|-
| Shot Mk.8 || '''APCBC''' - '''A'''rmour '''P'''iercing '''C'''apped '''B'''allistic '''C'''ap || It is able to penetrate and detonated inside of the enemy tank causing maximum damage.
+
| Shot Mk.8 || '''APCBC''' - '''A'''rmour '''P'''iercing '''C'''apped '''B'''allistic '''C'''ap || Deadliest round/ High shrapnel spalling damage , Most of the tanks of WW2 era
 
|-
 
|-
| Shot SV Mk.1 || '''APDS''' - '''A'''rmour '''P'''iercing '''D'''iscarding '''S'''abot || This is able to cause maximum damage to enemy tanks.
+
| Shot SV Mk.1 || '''APDS''' - '''A'''rmour '''P'''iercing '''D'''iscarding '''S'''abot || Most piercing round but less damage than APCBC (Low spalling), good to use when post WW2 era 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
===== Optics =====
 +
 +
<!--''Explain how the optic's status can affect the tank's gameplay in any unique or meaningful way. A comparison to rival tanks of the rank is welcome.''
 +
 +
''If you are having problems with it, refer to the [[Optics|optics gallery]] page for examples.''-->
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
! colspan="3" | {{PAGENAME}} [[Optics]]
 +
|-
 +
! Which ones
 +
! Default magnification
 +
! Maximum magnification
 +
|-
 +
! Main Gun optics
 +
| x1.85 || x3.5 <!--Sometimes the actual value may not be known and here it should be referenced if the optic values are an estimate such as with an "X8.3 (estimated)" notation or something else that way the user will then be able to look to the comparable optics section and see a referenced optic which will have actual in-game data to back up the claim.-->
 +
|-
 +
! Comparable optics
 +
| colspan="2;" style="text-align:center;" | [[Churchill Mk I]]
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
This tank is using outdated X3.5 scope like early British tanks, attempts to outsnipe SPG of rank IV with the mobility of Black Prince will likely end in a disaster.
 +
 +
Use APDS or smoke shells to make tanks 800+ m away from Black Prince to leave it alone, as discerning enemy tank weak spots and targeting them using normal AP from that far away with this sight becomes a problem. When choosing directions, go with ones which are not easy to exploit by hostile sniper tanks.
  
 
=== Machine guns ===
 
=== Machine guns ===
<!--''Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft, but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.''-->
+
<!--Offensive and anti-aircraft machine guns not only allow you to fight some aircraft but also are effective against lightly armoured vehicles. Evaluate machine guns and give recommendations on its use.-->
 
{{main|BESA (7.92 mm)}}
 
{{main|BESA (7.92 mm)}}
  
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|}
 
|}
  
== Usage in the battles ==
+
== Usage in battles ==
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).''-->
+
<!--Describe the tactics of playing in the vehicle, the features of using vehicles in the team and advice on tactics. Refrain from creating a "guide" - do not impose a single point of view but instead give the reader food for thought. Describe the most dangerous enemies and give recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of the game in different modes (AB, RB, SB).-->
When playing this tank you will, immediately notice the speed and length, it is not a fast tank. You will also notice that it can sometimes struggle to get up hills and small embankments. It is recommended, to stay on flat terrain and to make small sharp turns. This will keep more momentum than a single big turn which will lose most of your much needed momentum.  
+
When engaged in combat with heavier and more lethal vehicles, using the APDS rounds will allow you to cause major/critical damage. In-order to get the most protection for the tank and crew, do not expose the sides or allow enemies to get to the rear of the vehicle. Instead, turn the front of tank towards the enemy player but give it a slight angle. The enemy rounds will have a higher chance of ricocheting off of the frontal plate, however, if the enemy tank uses HE ammunition, there is a high chance that the round may bounce and enter the vehicle's roof.
  
The A43 Black Prince has one of the thickest armour installations of any tanks. The front is able to be continuously hit by larger and more powerful calibre tanks at close range without taking much, if any damage. However, if you come up against a tank shooting HEAT or HE rounds they will likely penetrate the armour with ease. Do not expose the sides to the enemy player, as it is one of the weakest parts of the tank, seconded only to the lower front part of the turret. Not only that, the sides contain the location of the ammunition; If it is hit, it is likely to detonate. If the ammunition does not detonate, the vehicle's crew will be incapacitated.
+
If engaged in close quarters combat, do not allow the other tank to circle and flank you, instead aim for the vehicle's tracks and destroy them and move away, then finish it off. Most importantly, do not allow them to get the rear of the tank, as you will be unable to effectively hit the enemy due to the twin radiators on the back of the vehicle, and the turret's slow traverse.
  
The Black Prince has a slow transverse turret at 10.5 degrees a second. This is one of the most heavily armoured turrets in the game. With the only weakness being the machine Gun port located in turret at 10mm, the lower front under the cannon being only 50 mm thick, and the roof.
+
In terms of tactics:
It lacks a top-mounted machine gun, which is normally a deterrent against low flying aircraft, making the vehicle more vulnerable to be attacks by a planes, and an easy target for bombers. The turret's slow traverse speed also makes the use of the internal machine gun useless against aircraft attacks.
 
Due to the low profile of this tank, being hit in the lower front turret is a rare occurrence. You still need to be careful of HEAT and HE rounds, as the low profile design will allow the enemy rounds to enter the turret's machine gun port and either knock out the loader: if using an APCR or solid shot round, OR, if using other rounds such as APCBC, APBC and HEAT, it is very likely that all the turret crew will be eliminated.
 
 
 
However, the A43 Black Prince does have one of the most powerful cannons in the game, and is capable of destroying tiger tanks and other heavily armoured vehicles from short to long distances, and is equipped with many different ammunition types which are viable for different situations. The APDS is the recommended choice for giving the gun the full potential of being capable of destroying more heavily armoured targets at longer ranges.
 
  
When engaged in combat with heavier and more lethal vehicles, using the APDS rounds will allow you to cause major/critical damage. In-order to get the most protection for the tank and crew, do not expose the sides or allow enemies to get to the rear of the vehicle. Instead, turn the front of tank towards the enemy player but give it a slight angle. The enemy rounds will have a higher chance of richocheting off of the frontal plate, however, if the enemy tank uses HE ammunition, there is a high chance that the round may bounce and enter the vehicle's roof.
+
'''Offensive'''
  
If engaged in close quarters combat, do not allow the other tank to circle and flank you, instead aim for the vehicle's tracks and destroy them and move away, then finish it off. Most importantly, do not allow them to get the rear of the tank, as you will be unable to effectively hit the enemy due to the twin radiators on the back of the vehicle, and the turret's slow traverse.
+
Keep your distance from enemy tanks, as the cannon is capable of destroying most tanks from long distances with relative ease. Combined with the slow speed of the vehicle, you'll find yourself being capable of firing on the move despite the lack of a stabiliser. The tank's low profile makes it difficult to see over terrain and obstacles, so it is often best to remain on level ground.  
 
 
In terms of tactics:
 
 
 
'''Offensive:''' Keep your distance from enemy tanks, as the cannon is capable of destroying most tanks from long distances with relative ease. Combined with the slow speed of the vehicle, you'll find yourself being capable of firing on the move despite the lack of a stabiliser. The tank's low profile makes it difficult to see over terrain and obstacles, so it is often best to remain on level ground.  
 
  
 
Avoid letting the enemy flank you at all costs, as the sides of the Black Prince are the softest weak points, containing the ammunition storage. If the sides of the vehicle are penetrated by enemy rounds, the ammunition will likely detonate, or the crew will be knocked out/critically injured, making you an easy target.  
 
Avoid letting the enemy flank you at all costs, as the sides of the Black Prince are the softest weak points, containing the ammunition storage. If the sides of the vehicle are penetrated by enemy rounds, the ammunition will likely detonate, or the crew will be knocked out/critically injured, making you an easy target.  
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It's best to avoid letting enemy players flank you from behind, as the turret's traverse will prevent you from being able to hit them quick enough, and the twin radiators on the back of the vehicle will prevent the turret from rotating all the way.
 
It's best to avoid letting enemy players flank you from behind, as the turret's traverse will prevent you from being able to hit them quick enough, and the twin radiators on the back of the vehicle will prevent the turret from rotating all the way.
  
<br>'''Defensive:''' When playing the Black Prince, it is often best to find a well-protected and concealed place, I.E. an ally tank, dense woodland or between rubble. Make sure the front of the tank is facing the enemy with a slight angle in order to get the most out of the vehicle's armour, whilst the cannon will allow you to destroy the enemy tanks from long distances. However don’t expose the sides or the rear due to weakness and some vulnerability in the design of the tank.
+
<br>'''Defensive'''
 +
 
 +
When playing the Black Prince, it is often best to find a well-protected and concealed place, I.E. an ally tank, dense woodland or between rubble. Make sure the front of the tank is facing the enemy with a slight angle in order to get the most out of the vehicle's armour, whilst the cannon will allow you to destroy the enemy tanks from long distances. However don’t expose the sides or the rear due to weakness and some vulnerability in the design of the tank.
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
<!--''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Do not use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - they have a substitution in the form of softer "inadequate", "effective".''-->
+
<!--Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in a bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".-->
 +
 
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
* Powerful primary armament
+
 
** High weapon accuracy
 
 
** Ammunition is not stored in the turret
 
** Ammunition is not stored in the turret
 
** APDS is able to penetrate and cause major damage to enemies from long distances, and is capable of destroying most tanks in a single shot at close ranges. (As long as you know where to hit)
 
** APDS is able to penetrate and cause major damage to enemies from long distances, and is capable of destroying most tanks in a single shot at close ranges. (As long as you know where to hit)
** Various ammunition types which can be lethal
+
** Good reloading speed of 7.6s with stock crew, with further crew skills and qualifications, it becomes one of the fastest in the rank
** Good reloading speed of 7.6s with stock crew, with further crew skills and qualifications, it becomes one of the fastest in the rank.
+
** Great armour
* Great Armour
 
 
** Effective at long ranges
 
** Effective at long ranges
** Frontal armour can often only be penetrated at close range
+
** The lower front of the turret has an additional 50 mm of armour
** The turret's armour is strong compared to others in the same rank
 
** The lower front of the turret has an additional 50mms of armour
 
* Repair times
 
**The vehicle can often be repaired quickly
 
* Crew
 
 
** With advancement on crew skills and qualifications, the tank can be a lethal opponent
 
** With advancement on crew skills and qualifications, the tank can be a lethal opponent
* Good Rewards
+
** Being a premium vehicle,high Silver Lion and Research Point reward
** Being a premium vehicle, the Silver Lion and Research Point output can be quite high
+
 
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
* Mobility.
+
 
** The vehicle's traverse is slow compared to others in the same rank
 
 
** It struggles to climb hills without losing significant speed
 
** It struggles to climb hills without losing significant speed
** Max speed 10 Mph (16 Kph).
+
** Max speed 10 Mph (16 Kph)
** Max reverse speed of -1 Mph (-1.6 Kph).
+
** Max reverse speed of -1 Mph (-1.6 Kph)
 
** The vehicle can often not be able to climb steep hills
 
** The vehicle can often not be able to climb steep hills
** The length of the vehicle can get it stuck in ditches easily
+
** The length of the vehicle
*Ammunition.
 
 
** Ammunition is stored in the sides of the tank, making it easy to hit
 
** Ammunition is stored in the sides of the tank, making it easy to hit
* Armour
+
** The vehicle's side armour is weak, allowing it to be easily damaged from the sides
** The vehicle's side armour is weak, allowing it to be easily damaged from the sides.
 
* Turret
 
 
** The turret's traverse is slow compared to others at only 10.5/s
 
** The turret's traverse is slow compared to others at only 10.5/s
** The rear mounted radiators make shooting from behind tedious
 
 
** The low profile can make shooting over obstacles hard
 
** The low profile can make shooting over obstacles hard
** The vehicle is vulnerable to most HE and explosive-based ammunition
+
** The turret machine gun port is only 10 mm thick, and can be penetrated easily
** The turret machine gun port is only 10mms thick, and can be penetrated easily
 
 
** Lacks any form of top-mounted anti-aircraft weaponry
 
** Lacks any form of top-mounted anti-aircraft weaponry
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''-->
+
<!--Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ground vehicle in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article. 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).-->
 +
 
 
===Development===
 
===Development===
 
The '''Black Prince''' is an experimental design that was to use the British Infantry tank, the [[Churchill Mk VII|Churchill]], as the basis with much more armour and a better gun. The name originates from Edward of Woodstock, otherwise known as the “Black Prince”, a 14th century military leader. The Churchill and its branch of infantry tanks, in the course of World War II, was becoming slightly obsolete in the highly mobile style of warfare the cruiser tanks proved much better at. The infantry tanks were originally made for heavy, breakthrough style of warfare with infantry, so they were kept around in a style of “heavy tanks”, but the Axis’ gradually increasing anti-tank capacity caused the armour of the infantry tanks to be considered insufficient.
 
The '''Black Prince''' is an experimental design that was to use the British Infantry tank, the [[Churchill Mk VII|Churchill]], as the basis with much more armour and a better gun. The name originates from Edward of Woodstock, otherwise known as the “Black Prince”, a 14th century military leader. The Churchill and its branch of infantry tanks, in the course of World War II, was becoming slightly obsolete in the highly mobile style of warfare the cruiser tanks proved much better at. The infantry tanks were originally made for heavy, breakthrough style of warfare with infantry, so they were kept around in a style of “heavy tanks”, but the Axis’ gradually increasing anti-tank capacity caused the armour of the infantry tanks to be considered insufficient.
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== Media ==
 
== Media ==
<!--''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''-->
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<!--Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.-->
 
'''Skins''' and camouflages for the Black Prince from http://live.warthunder.com:
 
'''Skins''' and camouflages for the Black Prince from http://live.warthunder.com:
 +
 
*[http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23A43 '''#A43''' Keyword]
 
*[http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23A43 '''#A43''' Keyword]
 
*[http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23black_prince '''#black_prince''' Keyword] (more choses)
 
*[http://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?q=%23black_prince '''#black_prince''' Keyword] (more choses)
 
{{Youtube-gallery|OPzYg0Ely_Y|Review<br />War Thunder Black Prince Gameplay & Review<br />by ''DigitalDigging''|jAIrKnD83YY|Review<br />War Thunder Black Prince Spotlight<br />by ''Minoxen''}}
 
{{Youtube-gallery|OPzYg0Ely_Y|Review<br />War Thunder Black Prince Gameplay & Review<br />by ''DigitalDigging''|jAIrKnD83YY|Review<br />War Thunder Black Prince Spotlight<br />by ''Minoxen''}}
  
===Obtainable===
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== See also ==
This tank can only be obtained; exclusively with the purchase of, one of the following British tank packs. The packs are currently available to buy; from the official war thunder store. For Playstation 4 it can indeed be brought from the official PSN store.<br />
+
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
[https://store.gaijin.net/story.php?title=A43-Black-Prince-Advanced-Pack War Thunder A43 Black Prince Adanced Pack]<br>[https://store.gaijin.net/story.php?title=Royal-Guard-Advanced-Pack War Thunder Royal Guard Advanced Pack]
 
 
 
[https://warthunder.com/en/devblog/current/827/ [Devblog<nowiki>]</nowiki> Pioneering British Tanks in War Thunder with developer's answers]
 
  
== Read also ==
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
 
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the vehicles;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
''ETC.''
 
  
== Sources ==
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== 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 tank;''
 
* ''other literature.''
 
* ''other literature.''
 +
* [[wt:en/devblog/current/827/|[Devblog<nowiki>]</nowiki> Pioneering British Tanks in War Thunder with developer's answers]]
  
 
{{Britain heavy tanks}}
 
{{Britain heavy tanks}}
 
{{Britain premium ground vehicles}}
 
{{Britain premium ground vehicles}}

Revision as of 02:37, 11 January 2020

Rank 6 USA
F-5C Pack
Black Prince
uk_a_43_black_prince.png
Black Prince
AB RB SB
6.0 6.0 5.7
Show in game

Description

GarageImage Black Prince.jpg


The A.43 Black Prince is a Rank IV gift British infantry tank with a battle rating of 6.0. The tank was added in Update 1.53 "Firestorm" and is one of the first British tanks to be introduced into the game. It was initially available as a pre-order pack from the Gaijin store, but was discontinued after the 2017 Winter sales.

The A43 Black Prince is a modified Churchill tank equipped with the legendary OQF-17 Pounder cannon; a weapon made famous by the Sherman Firefly, M10 Achilles and its ability to destroy the German 8.8 cm heavy tanks such as the Tiger tank It also features a single 7.62 mm BESA machine gun, which works great for destroying light tanks and SPAA vehicles.

The A43 Black prince makes enemy players retreat in fear, as it offers one of the most powerful guns available in the game, capable of destroying a Ferdinand, IS-2 and other tanks from over 1 km away. The reloading time is great for its rank, at a mere 7.6s and when coupled with the tank's heavy armour, can stand as quite a lethal opponent.

However, the Black Prince does have some negatives. The extra armour adds extra weight to the vehicle, which makes it extremely slow with a top speed of 10MPH and only -1MPH reverse speed. With the tank's low profile, it makes it difficult to see over foreign obstacles such as debris, hills and walls.

General info

Survivability and armour

Armour type:

  • Rolled homogeneous armour
  • Cast homogeneous armour (Turret front, Turret sides, Cupola)

Its vulnerable to HE rounds, which will often bounce and enter through the roof. The ammunition is located along the sides of the vehicle, making these a primary weak spot for enemy players to target.

The A43 Black Prince has one of the thickest armour installations of any tanks. The front is able to be continuously hit by larger and more powerful calibre tanks at close range without taking much, if any damage. However, if you come up against a tank shooting HEAT or HE rounds they will likely penetrate the armour with ease. Do not expose the sides to the enemy player, as it is one of the weakest parts of the tank, seconded only to the lower front part of the turret. Not only that, the sides contain the location of the ammunition; If it is hit, it is likely to detonate. If the ammunition does not detonate, the vehicle's crew will be incapacitated.

It lacks a top-mounted machine gun, which is normally a deterrent against low flying aircraft, making the vehicle more vulnerable to be attacks by a planes, and an easy target for bombers. The turret's slow traverse speed also makes the use of the internal machine gun useless against aircraft attacks. Due to the low profile of this tank, being hit in the lower front turret is a rare occurrence. You still need to be careful of HEAT and HE rounds, as the low profile design will allow the enemy rounds to enter the turret's machine gun port and either knock out the loader: if using an APCR or solid shot round, OR, if using other rounds such as APCBC, APBC and HEAT, it is very likely that all the turret crew will be eliminated.

Tank Armour Table
Armour Front Sides Rear Roof
Hull 152 mm Front plate
57 mm (70°) Front glacis
139 mm (20-60°) Lower glacis
82 mm Top
95 mm Bottom
51 mm (20°) Top
25 mm (60°) Bottom
25 mm Front
18 mm Engine deck
Turret 152 mm (6-83°) Turret front
152 mm (0-25°) Gun mantlet
95 mm 101 + 4 mm 38 mm (73°) Front
18 mm Bottom
Armour Sides Roof
Cupola 100 mm 38 mm

Notes:

  • Suspension wheels and chassis construction are 20 mm thick while tracks are 30 mm thick.
  • Belly armour is 18-25 mm thick.
  • There is a 19 mm thick plate separating the engine compartment to the crew's.
  • A 50 mm turret ring shield is present on the front of the turret.

Mobility

When playing this tank you will, immediately notice the speed and length, it is not a fast tank. You will also notice that it can sometimes struggle to get up hills and small embankments. It is recommended, to stay on flat terrain and to make small sharp turns. This will keep more momentum than a single big turn which will lose most of your much needed momentum.

The A43 is a rather long tank making it almost impossible to get wedged between ditches, but the vehicle lacks sufficient engine power required to pull itself over the obstacles and often gets stuck when climbing over them.

Mobility characteristic
Weight (tons) Add-on Armour
weight (tons)
Max speed (km/h)
50.0 N/A 18.3 (AB)
17.2 (RB/SB)
Engine power (horsepower)
Mode Stock Upgraded
Arcade 452 556
Realistic/Simulator 310 350
Power-to-weight ratio (hp/ton)
Mode Stock Upgraded
Arcade 9.04 11.12
Realistic/Simulator 6.20 7.00

Armaments

Main armament

However, the A43 Black Prince does have one of the most powerful cannons in the game, and is capable of destroying tiger tanks and other heavily armoured vehicles from short to long distances, and is equipped with many different ammunition types which are viable for different situations. The APDS is the recommended choice for giving the gun the full potential of being capable of destroying more heavily armoured targets at longer ranges.

76 mm OQF 17-pounder
Capacity Vertical
guidance
Horizontal
guidance
Stabilizer
89 -10°/+20° ±180° N/A
Turret rotation speed (°/s)
Mode Stock Upgraded Prior + Full crew Prior + Expert qualif. Prior + Ace qualif.
Arcade 10.1 14.0 _._ _._ _._
Realistic 10.1 11.9 _._ _._ _._
Reloading rate (seconds)
Stock Prior + Full crew Prior + Expert qualif. Prior + Ace qualif.
7.6 _._ _._ _._
Ammunition
Penetration statistics
Ammunition Type of
warhead
Penetration in mm @ 90°
10m 100m 500m 1000m 1500m 2000m
Shot Mk.6 AP 171 168 155 139 126 113
Shell Mk.1 HE 9 9 9 9 9 9
Shot Mk.4 APC 171 168 155 139 126 113
Shot Mk.8 APCBC 190 187 172 155 140 126
Shot SV Mk.1 APDS 228 226 207 189 159 134
Shell details
Ammunition Type of
warhead
Velocity
in m/s
Projectile
Mass in kg
Fuse delay

in m:

Fuse sensitivity

in mm:

Explosive Mass in g
(TNT equivalent):
Normalization At 30°
from horizontal:
Ricochet:
0% 50% 100%
Shot Mk.6 AP 883 7.7 N/A N/A N/A -1° 47° 60° 65°
Shell Mk.1 HE 883 7.0 0.4 0.5 883 +0° 79° 80° 81°
Shot Mk.4 APC 883 7.7 N/A N/A N/A -1° 48° 63° 71°
Shot Mk.8 APCBC 883 7.7 N/A N/A N/A +4° 48° 63° 71°
Shot SV Mk.1 APDS 1203 1.7 N/A N/A N/A +1.5° 75° 78° 80°
Smoke characteristic
Ammunition Velocity
in m/s
Projectile
Mass in kg
Screen radius
in m
Screen time
in s
Screen hold time
in s:
Explosive Mass in g
(TNT equivalent):
17pdr Shell SS Mk.1 754 8.4 13 5 20 50
Shell types

The Black Prince is equipped with some of the most lethal ammunition types in the game. It can carry a combination of different type or just a single type of projectiles.

Round Shell composition Combat usage
Shell Mk.1 HE - High Explosive (HE) It is ideal for destroying SPAA and Lightly armoured tanks
Shot Mk.4 APC - Armor Piercing Cap Standard round / Medium shrapnel spalling damage , Medium tanks
Shot Mk.6 AP - Armour Piercing Standard round / Low shrapnel spalling damage, medium , light tanks
Shot Mk.8 APCBC - Armour Piercing Capped Ballistic Cap Deadliest round/ High shrapnel spalling damage , Most of the tanks of WW2 era
Shot SV Mk.1 APDS - Armour Piercing Discarding Sabot Most piercing round but less damage than APCBC (Low spalling), good to use when post WW2 era
Ammo racks
Full
ammo
1st
rack empty
2nd
rack empty
3rd
rack empty
Visual
discrepancy
XX XX (+XX) XX (+XX) XX (+XX) No
Optics
Black Prince Optics
Which ones Default magnification Maximum magnification
Main Gun optics x1.85 x3.5
Comparable optics Churchill Mk I

This tank is using outdated X3.5 scope like early British tanks, attempts to outsnipe SPG of rank IV with the mobility of Black Prince will likely end in a disaster.

Use APDS or smoke shells to make tanks 800+ m away from Black Prince to leave it alone, as discerning enemy tank weak spots and targeting them using normal AP from that far away with this sight becomes a problem. When choosing directions, go with ones which are not easy to exploit by hostile sniper tanks.

Machine guns

Main article: BESA (7.92 mm)
7.92 mm BESA
Coaxial mount
Capacity (Belt capacity) Fire rate
(shots/minute)
Vertical
guidance
Horizontal
guidance
8,100 (225) 600 N/A N/A

Usage in battles

When engaged in combat with heavier and more lethal vehicles, using the APDS rounds will allow you to cause major/critical damage. In-order to get the most protection for the tank and crew, do not expose the sides or allow enemies to get to the rear of the vehicle. Instead, turn the front of tank towards the enemy player but give it a slight angle. The enemy rounds will have a higher chance of ricocheting off of the frontal plate, however, if the enemy tank uses HE ammunition, there is a high chance that the round may bounce and enter the vehicle's roof.

If engaged in close quarters combat, do not allow the other tank to circle and flank you, instead aim for the vehicle's tracks and destroy them and move away, then finish it off. Most importantly, do not allow them to get the rear of the tank, as you will be unable to effectively hit the enemy due to the twin radiators on the back of the vehicle, and the turret's slow traverse.

In terms of tactics:

Offensive

Keep your distance from enemy tanks, as the cannon is capable of destroying most tanks from long distances with relative ease. Combined with the slow speed of the vehicle, you'll find yourself being capable of firing on the move despite the lack of a stabiliser. The tank's low profile makes it difficult to see over terrain and obstacles, so it is often best to remain on level ground.

Avoid letting the enemy flank you at all costs, as the sides of the Black Prince are the softest weak points, containing the ammunition storage. If the sides of the vehicle are penetrated by enemy rounds, the ammunition will likely detonate, or the crew will be knocked out/critically injured, making you an easy target.

It's best to avoid letting enemy players flank you from behind, as the turret's traverse will prevent you from being able to hit them quick enough, and the twin radiators on the back of the vehicle will prevent the turret from rotating all the way.


Defensive

When playing the Black Prince, it is often best to find a well-protected and concealed place, I.E. an ally tank, dense woodland or between rubble. Make sure the front of the tank is facing the enemy with a slight angle in order to get the most out of the vehicle's armour, whilst the cannon will allow you to destroy the enemy tanks from long distances. However don’t expose the sides or the rear due to weakness and some vulnerability in the design of the tank.

Pros and cons

Pros:

    • Ammunition is not stored in the turret
    • APDS is able to penetrate and cause major damage to enemies from long distances, and is capable of destroying most tanks in a single shot at close ranges. (As long as you know where to hit)
    • Good reloading speed of 7.6s with stock crew, with further crew skills and qualifications, it becomes one of the fastest in the rank
    • Great armour
    • Effective at long ranges
    • The lower front of the turret has an additional 50 mm of armour
    • With advancement on crew skills and qualifications, the tank can be a lethal opponent
    • Being a premium vehicle,high Silver Lion and Research Point reward

Cons:

    • It struggles to climb hills without losing significant speed
    • Max speed 10 Mph (16 Kph)
    • Max reverse speed of -1 Mph (-1.6 Kph)
    • The vehicle can often not be able to climb steep hills
    • The length of the vehicle
    • Ammunition is stored in the sides of the tank, making it easy to hit
    • The vehicle's side armour is weak, allowing it to be easily damaged from the sides
    • The turret's traverse is slow compared to others at only 10.5/s
    • The low profile can make shooting over obstacles hard
    • The turret machine gun port is only 10 mm thick, and can be penetrated easily
    • Lacks any form of top-mounted anti-aircraft weaponry

History

Development

The Black Prince is an experimental design that was to use the British Infantry tank, the Churchill, as the basis with much more armour and a better gun. The name originates from Edward of Woodstock, otherwise known as the “Black Prince”, a 14th century military leader. The Churchill and its branch of infantry tanks, in the course of World War II, was becoming slightly obsolete in the highly mobile style of warfare the cruiser tanks proved much better at. The infantry tanks were originally made for heavy, breakthrough style of warfare with infantry, so they were kept around in a style of “heavy tanks”, but the Axis’ gradually increasing anti-tank capacity caused the armour of the infantry tanks to be considered insufficient.

To keep the infantry tanks relevant in the course of World War II, the Churchill was upgraded in armour and armament to better compete against the changing anti-tank warfare, starting in 1943. The original Churchill tank in the later part of World War II had the QF 75 mm cannon (British-produced 75 mm from the Americans) and about 102 mm of armour average, and weighed about 38 tons. The Black Prince upgraded the armour to 152 mm thick, widened the tracks by 10 inches, modified the suspensions for the new weight. The 75 mm gun was instead replaced by the QF 17-pounder cannon, which was one of the best Allied anti-tank guns in service. The larger gun required a larger turret and a larger turret ring on the hull. All these modifications increased the tank weight by ten tons, but kept the engine used in the regular Churchill, so the tank was considered under-powered, only able to reach up to 10 mph on roads and this limited the tank’s operational radius. The tank was designated the Tank, Infantry, Black Prince (A43) and the A43 model was for a Staff Specification number issued in 1943 for an interim tank that could be made until the development of a “Universal Tank”.

Deployment

However, by the time the Black Prince was ready in May 1945; it was too late for it to see service in World War II. Even if it had, many more tank designs such as the Sherman Firefly and the Comet are much more mobile and effective, yet have the same 17-pounder gun available. Also, a new tank about to be introduced, the Centurion, has the same protection level as the Black Prince, yet with the same gun and is way more mobile than the Black Prince. This caused the Black Prince to fall into obsolescence and the project, along with the entire line of the infantry tank concept in British tank doctrine, was abandoned in favor of a concept of more mobile tanks with great firepower and protection, which would eventually form the idea of the main battle tanks.

Media

Skins and camouflages for the Black Prince from http://live.warthunder.com:

See also

Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:

  • reference to the series of the vehicles;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:


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

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