Difference between revisions of "F-86F-40 (China)"

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(Added: Air Realistic, Ground Realistic CAS, Air Simulator, Ground Simulator CAS sections and added to the radar section. Corrected 3 spelling mistakes)
(Grammar, changed copy+paste description of F-86F-40 JASDF)
(3 intermediate revisions by one other user not shown)
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{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
{{Specs-Avia-Flight}}
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.'' -->
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
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While the F-86F-40's acceleration and top speed are lacking compared to its contemporaries, the F-86F-40's slats allow the plane to have an outstanding manoeuvrability. That said, one must be aware of their speed as pulling high manoeuvres at high and max speed can put the plane under great stress which leads to the wings falling apart. The outstanding manoeuvrability comes at the cost of speed. Pulling hard turns will bleed your air speed.  
  
 
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* 6 x 12.7 mm M3 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (300 rpg = 1,800 total)
 
* 6 x 12.7 mm M3 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (300 rpg = 1,800 total)
  
The F86F-40 JASDF were U.S. airframes assembled by Mitsubishi in Japan, and they offered the same offensive armament of many of it's Saber brethren, namely the 6 x M3 Browning 12.7 mm/.50 calibre machine guns. These machine guns are similar in performance to their predecessor, the M2 Browning; however, they excelled with a significantly higher rate of fire. The total ammunition count for this aircraft is 1,800 rounds, divided up with 300 rounds per gun. Ammunition belts for this aircraft are conventional 12.7 mm belts found on U.S. aircraft, and typically the tracer belts permit for the quickest correction of aim. Other belts may be utilised as necessary and depending on play-style such as the Stealth belts; however, these should be used by skilled pilots who already understand the firing aspects of the M3 Brownings and bullet performance. One challenge with the Stealth belts is the lack of tracers, making it much harder to correct aim when solely relying on visual clues.
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The F-86F-40 (China) offered the same offensive armament of many of its Sabre brethren, namely the 6 x M3 Browning 12.7 mm/.50 calibre machine guns. These machine guns are similar in performance to their predecessor, the M2 Browning; however, they excelled with a significantly higher rate of fire. The total ammunition count for this aircraft is 1,800 rounds, divided up with 300 rounds per gun. Ammunition belts for this aircraft are conventional 12.7 mm belts found on U.S. aircraft, and typically the tracer belts permit for the quickest correction of aim. Other belts may be utilised as necessary and depending on play-style such as the Stealth belts; however, these should be used by skilled pilots who already understand the firing aspects of the M3 Brownings and bullet performance. One challenge with the Stealth belts is the lack of tracers, making it much harder to correct aim when solely relying on visual clues.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
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* 2 x AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles
 
* 2 x AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles
  
The unguided rockets out-fitted on this aircraft are the familiar American HVARs, which can be used against slow-moving bombers or ground target vehicles and anti-aircraft guns. Since the HVARs are a fire-and-forget rocket, they work best against either stationary targets or against slow-moving targets which may not be able to avoid inbound rockets. Another option for suspended ordnances includes bombs, namely the 1,000 lbs AN-M65A1 bombs. Two of these bombs is all that this aircraft can safely carry, but these bombs will do considerable damage against ground units, ships and bases. While performing bombing runs, always be on the lookout for enemy fighters attempting to swoop in and eliminate the F-86F-40 which may be flying slower and lower than typical. For air-to-air combat, using the Aim-9B missiles to complement the M3 Browing machine guns makes for a deadly combination. These missiles are best used in close quarters, anywhere from 600 - 800 m which minimizes the opportunity for the enemy pilot to evade or out-fly the missiles. It is quite possible for the enemy to avoid the in-bound missile; however, this provides the attacking aircraft with the opportunity to manoeuvre in and take out the fighter with its machine guns. Hopefully, the enemy fighter has bled any energy advantage it may have had presenting itself as an ideal target for the machine guns.
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The unguided rockets out-fitted on this aircraft are the familiar American HVARs, which can be used against slow-moving bombers or ground target vehicles and anti-aircraft guns. Since the HVARs are a fire-and-forget rocket, they work best against either stationary targets or against slow-moving targets which may not be able to avoid inbound rockets. Another option for suspended ordnances includes bombs, namely the 1,000 lbs AN-M65A1 bombs. Two of these bombs is all that this aircraft can safely carry, but these bombs will do considerable damage against ground units, ships and bases. While performing bombing runs, always be on the lookout for enemy fighters attempting to swoop in and eliminate the F-86F-40 which may be flying slower and lower than typical. For air-to-air combat, using the Aim-9B missiles to complement the M3 Browning machine guns makes for a deadly combination. These missiles are best used in close quarters, anywhere from 600 - 800 m which minimizes the opportunity for the enemy pilot to evade or out-fly the missiles. It is quite possible for the enemy to avoid the in-bound missile; however, this provides the attacking aircraft with the opportunity to manoeuvre in and take out the fighter with its machine guns. Hopefully, the enemy fighter has bled any energy advantage it may have had presenting itself as an ideal target for the machine guns.
  
 
== 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).'' -->
While the F-86F-40's acceleration and top speed are lacking compared to its contemporaries, the F-86F-40's slats allow the plane to have an outstanding maneuverability. That said, one must beware of their speed as pulling high maneuvers at high and max speed can put the plane under great stress which leads to the wings falling apart. The outstanding maneuverability comes at the cost of speed. Pulling hard turns will bleed your air speed. Try to climb up before engaging the enemy to ensure you have enough energy to get out of a sticky situation. Hopefully, there will be a furball underneath you where you would be able to pounce on low-energy fighters with your guns or the AIM-9B. One advantage the F-86 has over the jets of other nations is the large ammo count of its 6 x 50 cals (1,800) although it would be wise to hit most of your shoots. Try staying above 500 km/h as any slower and you would lose a significant amount of energy in a prolonged turn.
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Try to climb up before engaging the enemy to ensure you have enough energy to get out of a sticky situation. Hopefully, there will be a jets fighting underneath you where you would be able to pounce on low-energy fighters with your guns or the AIM-9B. One advantage the F-86 has over the jets of other nations is the large ammo count of its 6 x .50 cals (1,800) although it would be wise to hit most of your shoots. Try staying above 500 km/h as any slower and you would lose a significant amount of energy in a prolonged turn.
  
 
=== Air Realistic Battles ===
 
=== Air Realistic Battles ===
In air realistic battles, F-86f40 is not the fastest jet at it's br when it comes to top speed. The thrust output is below average and without an afterburner, the jet does not accelerate fast either. It is best to take off and do a slight side climb while paying attention to aircrafts like the harriers who could try to fly over the team. It is important to maintain at least 600kph of IAS because any slower the Saber will struggle to doge enemy missiles. once the initial furball is started. Proceed into the furball and pick targets who is not suspecting a Saber with AIM-9Bs. The Saber f40 should take advantage of it's wings and good energy retention, combine that with good roll rate no enemy should be able to shake you once you are on their tails. Watch for attempts to force overshoot and keep alert. In late game Air Realistic Battles, there will be more freedom to how slow a fight can get. If you know where the enemy are, it is okay to stall climb to get a missile off to an enemy F-104A who is climbing.
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In air realistic battles, the F-86F-40 (China) is not the fastest jet at its BR when it comes to top speed. The thrust output is below average and without an afterburner, and the jet does not accelerate fast either. It is best to take off and do a slight side climb while paying attention to aircraft like Harriers that could try to fly over the team. It is important to maintain at least 600 km/h IAS because any slower the Sabre will struggle to dodge enemy missiles. Once a furball is started, proceed into it and pick targets that are low on energy. The F-86F-40 should take advantage of its wings and good energy retention. Combined with a good roll rate, no enemy should be able to shake you once you are on their tail. Watch for attempts by enemies to force you to overshoot. In late game air realistic battles, there will be more freedom to how slow a fight can get. If you know where the enemy is, you can afford to stall climb and get a missile off to a climbing enemy F-104A.
  
=== Ground Realistic Battles CAS ===
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=== Ground Realistic Battles - CAS ===
In ground Realstic battles, F86-f40 is a good all round aircraft. In ground attack, the Hvar rockets is a good option against lightly armored enemy like SPAAG or Light tanks. The 1000lb bombs are good but both drop at the same time only giving chance for one attack round per landing. In air superiority role, the Saber is a good helicopter hunter, 1800 rounds of 50cal is enough to take care of any amount of enemy UHT or Apache. Enemy fighters should be engaged with care keep distance away from the battlefield before climbing to avoid enemy SAMs. It is however the better Air to air fighter as the other option for China at this br is the Q5 with better climb and top speed but no missiles.
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In mixed ground battles, the F-86F-40 (China) is a good all-round aircraft. In ground attack, the HVAR rockets are a good option against lightly armoured SPAAGs or light tanks. The 1,000 lb bombs are good but both drop at the same time only giving chance for one attack round per landing. In an air superiority role, the Sabre is a good helicopter hunter with 1,800 rounds of .50 cal, which is enough to take care of any amount of enemy UHT or Apache helicopters. Enemy fighters should be engaged with care: keep away from the battlefield before climbing to avoid enemy SAMs. It is however the better air-to-air fighter compared to other options for China at this BR, as the Q-5 early has better climb and top speed but no missiles.
  
 
=== Air Simulator Battles ===
 
=== Air Simulator Battles ===
In air simulator battles, F-86f40 is a monster rate fighter. While the wings with slats do give a lot of Aoa before stalling. It's also great for normal rate fights. This Saber will be able to out rate F4E Phantoms (F4C, F4EJ...), Mirage IIIC/E, A-7D, F-100D Super Saber or most jets it can face, at anywhere between 400-800kph. It is recommended to stay above 600kph IAS because any slower the Saber will struggle to doge enemy missiles. The AIM-9B should be able to deal with any running/climbing enemy. However, enemy with RWR will get notified if the rangefinding radar is turned on and may drop flares. It is best to keep the radar off when launching a missile attack against aircraft like the German Starfighter or the Mirage IIIE. In battle, stay low stay fast and by the time you are up close to your enemy they would not be able to out run the missiles (longer range launches can be defeated by faster enemy without realizing) or out rate fight the Saber.  
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In air simulator battles, the F-86F-40 (China) is an excellent turn fighter. While the wings with slats do give a lot of angle of attack before stalling, they're also great for turn fights. This Sabre will be able to outturn most jets it can face, at anywhere between 400 and 800 km/h IAS. It is recommended to stay above 600 km/h IAS because any slower the Sabre will struggle to dodge enemy missiles. The AIM-9B should be able to deal with any running/climbing enemy. However, enemies with RWR will get notified if the rangefinding radar is turned on and may drop flares. It is best to keep the radar off when launching a missile attack against aircraft like the German Starfighter or the Mirage III. In battle, stay low and fast and by the time you are up close to your enemy they would not be able to outrun the missiles or outturn the Sabre.  
  
 
=== Ground Simulator Battles CAS ===
 
=== Ground Simulator Battles CAS ===
In ground simulator battles, F86-f40 can be a multirole fighter depending on the task required to complete. In ground attack, the Hvar rockets will struggle with most targets at the top Simulator bracket, but do offer better accuracy per 100 meters when compared to the Bombs. The 1000lb bombs are very reliable against all levels of protection but takes a higher approach for a accurate drop (lack of bombardier view). In air superiority role, the Saber will preform even better than it did in Air Simulator battles. The 6 50cal will make quick work of any enemy helicopter, even if they try to maneuver, Saber's roll rate should allow for last second adjustments. Rate fighting enemy fighter also got easier as the chances of them carrying bombs/rockets went up, thus limiting their performance. Tree top level flying should be practiced to avoid SAMs.
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In ground simulator battles, F-86F-40 can be a multirole fighter depending on the task to complete. In ground attack, the HVAR rockets will struggle with most targets at the top simulator bracket, but do offer better accuracy per 100 m when compared to the Bombs. The 1,000 lb bombs are very reliable against all levels of protection but take a higher approach for a accurate drop (lack of bomb sight). In an air superiority role, the Sabre will preform even better than it did in air simulator battles. The 6 x .50 cal MGs will make quick work of any enemy helicopter, even if they try to manoeuvre, the Sabre's roll rate should allow for last second adjustments. Turnfighting enemy fighter also got easier as the chances of them carrying bombs/rockets are up, thus limiting their performance. Tree-top level flying should be practiced to avoid SAMs. -->
  
 
===Radars===
 
===Radars===
 
<!--{{main|AN/APG-30}}-->
 
<!--{{main|AN/APG-30}}-->
 
The F-86F-40 is equipped with an AN/APG-30 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
 
The F-86F-40 is equipped with an AN/APG-30 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft.
It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range. Note that this Radar will trigger RWR of enemy helicopter and jet and may lead to them using flares which will defeat the AIM-9B.
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It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range. Note that this Radar will trigger RWR of enemy helicopters and jets and may lead to them using flares which will defeat the AIM-9B.
  
 
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The F-86 was developed by North American Aviation, the creator of the venerable P-51 Mustang. The XP-86 prototype was created to meet the USAF requirement for a high-altitude escort fighter. It was derived from the Navy's FJ-1 Fury, a transitional fighter jet that borrowed the wings, tail surfaces and canopy from the P-51D. The XP-86 was under threat of cancellation because the XP-80 and XP-84 had similar performance characteristics and were farther ahead in development. However, North American designers made a radical change to the design and replaced the straight wing with a swept wing, which was shown by seized German research to greatly reduce drag and increase performance at high speed. The resulting performance boost was so significant that the swept-wing prototype of the XP-86 was supposedly able break the sound barrier in a dive a few days before Chuck Yeager made his official attempt.
 
The F-86 was developed by North American Aviation, the creator of the venerable P-51 Mustang. The XP-86 prototype was created to meet the USAF requirement for a high-altitude escort fighter. It was derived from the Navy's FJ-1 Fury, a transitional fighter jet that borrowed the wings, tail surfaces and canopy from the P-51D. The XP-86 was under threat of cancellation because the XP-80 and XP-84 had similar performance characteristics and were farther ahead in development. However, North American designers made a radical change to the design and replaced the straight wing with a swept wing, which was shown by seized German research to greatly reduce drag and increase performance at high speed. The resulting performance boost was so significant that the swept-wing prototype of the XP-86 was supposedly able break the sound barrier in a dive a few days before Chuck Yeager made his official attempt.
  
The F-86F is a further development of the F-86E, which introduced a full power-operated control system and the all-flying tail, in which the entire horizontal stabilizer moves to significantly increase the aircraft's maneuverability at high speed. The F-86F is fitted with the uprated J47-GE-27 engine. The leading edge slats featured on earlier Sabre models were removed in later production versions of the F-86F in favor of more space for fuel. Some of the earlier F-86F models had the static leading edge slats retrofitted. It also carried over the capability to carry tactical nuclear weapons from the F-86E.
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The F-86F is a further development of the F-86E, which introduced a full power-operated control system and the all-flying tail, in which the entire horizontal stabilizer moves to significantly increase the aircraft's manoeuvrability at high speed. The F-86F is fitted with the uprated J47-GE-27 engine. The leading edge slats featured on earlier Sabre models were removed in later production versions of the F-86F in favor of more space for fuel. Some of the earlier F-86F models had the static leading edge slats retrofitted. It also carried over the capability to carry tactical nuclear weapons from the F-86E.
  
 
To cover the shortfall of F-86s for export, production of the F-86 was restarted by North American. The new production block, the F-86F-40-NA, differed from the preceding production block in having a new wing. While Blocks 25 to 35 had been equipped with the slatless 6-3 wing, the Block 40 saw the airframe retain the 6-3 proportioned wing, but with an introduction of the slats in order to improve low-speed handling, and the wingtips extended so the overall span was increased from 37.12 to 39.11 ft. This lowered the stall speed of the F-86F-40-NA from 144 to 124 mph, and decreased the take-off run by 800 ft. Despite these modifications adding 250 lb to the F-86F-40-NA's weight when compared with the earlier F-86F-35-NA, overall performance remained the same.
 
To cover the shortfall of F-86s for export, production of the F-86 was restarted by North American. The new production block, the F-86F-40-NA, differed from the preceding production block in having a new wing. While Blocks 25 to 35 had been equipped with the slatless 6-3 wing, the Block 40 saw the airframe retain the 6-3 proportioned wing, but with an introduction of the slats in order to improve low-speed handling, and the wingtips extended so the overall span was increased from 37.12 to 39.11 ft. This lowered the stall speed of the F-86F-40-NA from 144 to 124 mph, and decreased the take-off run by 800 ft. Despite these modifications adding 250 lb to the F-86F-40-NA's weight when compared with the earlier F-86F-35-NA, overall performance remained the same.
  
In 1954, the Republic Of China, led by Generalissimo Chiang Kai-Shek's Kuomintang, started to order F-86 from the US. Next year, RF-86F, reconnaissance versions of the F-86F, were delivered to the Republic Of China's Air Force (ROCAF). During the second Taiwan Strait Crisis in 1958, the F-86 composed the backbone of the ROCAF. Through "Operation Black Magic", ROCAF Sabers were equipped with AIM-9B Sidewinders, which proved effective against the People's Liberation Army Air Force's (PLAAF) MiG-15s and MiG-17s. One was reported to have hit a MiG-17 but failed to detonate, the missile was later brought back to mainland China and later given to the USSR, where it was reverse engineered into the R-3S.
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In 1954, the Republic Of China, led by Generalissimo Chiang Kai-Shek's Kuomintang, started to order F-86 from the US. Next year, RF-86F, reconnaissance versions of the F-86F, were delivered to the Republic Of China's Air Force (ROCAF). During the second Taiwan Strait Crisis in 1958, the F-86 composed the backbone of the ROCAF. Through "Operation Black Magic", ROCAF Sabres were equipped with AIM-9B Sidewinders, which proved effective against the People's Liberation Army Air Force's (PLAAF) MiG-15s and MiG-17s. One was reported to have hit a MiG-17 but failed to detonate, the missile was later brought back to mainland China and later given to the USSR, where it was reverse engineered into the R-3S.
  
 
In the 1970, the F-86 was retired from service in the ROCAF and repurposed for training duties, by 1977 all F-86 planes were fully retired. Now a days one can find some ROCAF F-86 in parks throughout the island.
 
In the 1970, the F-86 was retired from service in the ROCAF and repurposed for training duties, by 1977 all F-86 planes were fully retired. Now a days one can find some ROCAF F-86 in parks throughout the island.

Revision as of 20:50, 22 April 2021

Rank 6 USA
F-5C Pack
This page is about the Chinese jet fighter F-86F-40 (China). For other variants, see F-86 (Family).
␗F-86F-40
f-86f-40_china.png
GarageImage F-86F-40 (China).jpg
␗F-86F-40
AB RB SB
8.3 9.0 9.3
Research:61 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:340 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The ␗F-86F-40 Sabre is a rank V Chinese jet fighter with a battle rating of 8.3 (AB), 9.0 (RB), and 9.3 (SB). It was introduced in Update "Starfighters".

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 0 m1 106 km/h
Turn time23 s
Max altitude14 700 m
EngineGeneral Electric J47-GE-27
TypeJet
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight10 t

While the F-86F-40's acceleration and top speed are lacking compared to its contemporaries, the F-86F-40's slats allow the plane to have an outstanding manoeuvrability. That said, one must be aware of their speed as pulling high manoeuvres at high and max speed can put the plane under great stress which leads to the wings falling apart. The outstanding manoeuvrability comes at the cost of speed. Pulling hard turns will bleed your air speed.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 0 m - sea level)
Max altitude
(metres)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(metres/second)
Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 1,095 1,088 14700 24.4 24.9 38.8 36.3 750
Upgraded 1,115 1,106 22.1 23.0 55.8 46.5

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear Drogue chute
X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
0 350 590 550 350 ~11 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 850 < 600 < 650 N/A

Engine performance

Engine Aircraft mass
Engine name Number Empty mass Wing loading (full fuel)
General Electric J47-GE-27 1 5,490 kg 232 kg/m2
Engine characteristics Mass with fuel (no weapons load) Max Takeoff
Weight
Weight (each) Type 7m fuel 20m fuel 26m fuel
1,150 kg Axial-flow turbojet 5,848 kg 6,490 kg 6,786 kg 9,530 kg
Maximum engine thrust @ 0 m (RB / SB) Thrust to weight ratio @ 0 m (100%)
Condition 100% WEP 7m fuel 20m fuel 26m fuel MTOW
Stationary 2,626 kgf N/A 0.45 0.41 0.39 0.28
Optimal 2,626 kgf
(0 km/h)
N/A 0.45 0.41 0.39 0.28

Survivability and armour

Crew1 person
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear350 km/h
  • 6.35 mm - Fore-cockpit steel plates
  • 38 mm - Bulletproof windscreen
  • 12.7 mm - Steel plate behind pilot's seat
  • 20 mm - Steel plate in pilot's headrest

The plane is equipped at the front with 2 steel plates, each 6.35mm thick. The cockpit has a 38mm bullet proof glass that protects the pilot's torso and head. The backseat is made of 12.7mm of steel which protects the pilot's back while his head is further protected by another 20mm steel plate. This protection will help against smaller calibre rounds, however, cannot sustain many direct hits with 20 mm rounds or higher.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB3 422 → 4 588 Sl icon.png
RB9 012 → 12 085 Sl icon.png
SB9 520 → 12 766 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications101 800 Rp icon.png
162 800 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost2 200 Ge icon.png
Crew training98 000 Sl icon.png
Experts340 000 Sl icon.png
Aces1 800 Ge icon.png
Research Aces780 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
120 / 380 / 600 % Sl icon.png
202 / 202 / 202 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
5 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 200 Sl icon.png
240 Ge icon.png
Mods jet compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
5 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 200 Sl icon.png
240 Ge icon.png
Mods booster.png
New boosters
Research:
7 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
6 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods jet engine.png
Engine
Research:
6 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods g suit.png
G-suit
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
7 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
bmg50_belt_pack
Research:
5 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 200 Sl icon.png
240 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
FRC mk.2
Research:
5 100 Rp icon.png
Cost:
8 200 Sl icon.png
240 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
M117
Research:
7 600 Rp icon.png
Cost:
12 000 Sl icon.png
360 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods weapon.png
bmg50_new_gun
Research:
6 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
FLBC mk.1
Research:
6 400 Rp icon.png
Cost:
10 000 Sl icon.png
310 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods air to air missile.png
AIM-9B
Research:
11 000 Rp icon.png
Cost:
18 000 Sl icon.png
520 Ge icon.png

Armaments

Offensive armament

Ammunition1 800 rounds
Fire rate1 200 shots/min
Main article: M3 Browning (12.7 mm)

The F-86F-40 (China) is armed with:

  • 6 x 12.7 mm M3 Browning machine guns, nose-mounted (300 rpg = 1,800 total)

The F-86F-40 (China) offered the same offensive armament of many of its Sabre brethren, namely the 6 x M3 Browning 12.7 mm/.50 calibre machine guns. These machine guns are similar in performance to their predecessor, the M2 Browning; however, they excelled with a significantly higher rate of fire. The total ammunition count for this aircraft is 1,800 rounds, divided up with 300 rounds per gun. Ammunition belts for this aircraft are conventional 12.7 mm belts found on U.S. aircraft, and typically the tracer belts permit for the quickest correction of aim. Other belts may be utilised as necessary and depending on play-style such as the Stealth belts; however, these should be used by skilled pilots who already understand the firing aspects of the M3 Brownings and bullet performance. One challenge with the Stealth belts is the lack of tracers, making it much harder to correct aim when solely relying on visual clues.

Suspended armament

List of setups (4)
Setup 18 x HVAR rockets
8 x HVAR rockets
Setup 22 x 750 lb M117 cone 45 bomb
Setup 32 x 1000 lb AN-M65A1 Fin M129 bomb
Setup 42 x AIM-9B Sidewinder air-to-air missiles

The F-86F-40 (China) can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 16 x HVAR rockets
  • 2 x 1,000 lb AN-M65A1 Fin M129 bombs (2,000 lb total)
  • 2 x AIM-9B Sidewinder missiles

The unguided rockets out-fitted on this aircraft are the familiar American HVARs, which can be used against slow-moving bombers or ground target vehicles and anti-aircraft guns. Since the HVARs are a fire-and-forget rocket, they work best against either stationary targets or against slow-moving targets which may not be able to avoid inbound rockets. Another option for suspended ordnances includes bombs, namely the 1,000 lbs AN-M65A1 bombs. Two of these bombs is all that this aircraft can safely carry, but these bombs will do considerable damage against ground units, ships and bases. While performing bombing runs, always be on the lookout for enemy fighters attempting to swoop in and eliminate the F-86F-40 which may be flying slower and lower than typical. For air-to-air combat, using the Aim-9B missiles to complement the M3 Browning machine guns makes for a deadly combination. These missiles are best used in close quarters, anywhere from 600 - 800 m which minimizes the opportunity for the enemy pilot to evade or out-fly the missiles. It is quite possible for the enemy to avoid the in-bound missile; however, this provides the attacking aircraft with the opportunity to manoeuvre in and take out the fighter with its machine guns. Hopefully, the enemy fighter has bled any energy advantage it may have had presenting itself as an ideal target for the machine guns.

Usage in battles

Try to climb up before engaging the enemy to ensure you have enough energy to get out of a sticky situation. Hopefully, there will be a jets fighting underneath you where you would be able to pounce on low-energy fighters with your guns or the AIM-9B. One advantage the F-86 has over the jets of other nations is the large ammo count of its 6 x .50 cals (1,800) although it would be wise to hit most of your shoots. Try staying above 500 km/h as any slower and you would lose a significant amount of energy in a prolonged turn.

Air Realistic Battles

In air realistic battles, the F-86F-40 (China) is not the fastest jet at its BR when it comes to top speed. The thrust output is below average and without an afterburner, and the jet does not accelerate fast either. It is best to take off and do a slight side climb while paying attention to aircraft like Harriers that could try to fly over the team. It is important to maintain at least 600 km/h IAS because any slower the Sabre will struggle to dodge enemy missiles. Once a furball is started, proceed into it and pick targets that are low on energy. The F-86F-40 should take advantage of its wings and good energy retention. Combined with a good roll rate, no enemy should be able to shake you once you are on their tail. Watch for attempts by enemies to force you to overshoot. In late game air realistic battles, there will be more freedom to how slow a fight can get. If you know where the enemy is, you can afford to stall climb and get a missile off to a climbing enemy F-104A.

Ground Realistic Battles - CAS

In mixed ground battles, the F-86F-40 (China) is a good all-round aircraft. In ground attack, the HVAR rockets are a good option against lightly armoured SPAAGs or light tanks. The 1,000 lb bombs are good but both drop at the same time only giving chance for one attack round per landing. In an air superiority role, the Sabre is a good helicopter hunter with 1,800 rounds of .50 cal, which is enough to take care of any amount of enemy UHT or Apache helicopters. Enemy fighters should be engaged with care: keep away from the battlefield before climbing to avoid enemy SAMs. It is however the better air-to-air fighter compared to other options for China at this BR, as the Q-5 early has better climb and top speed but no missiles.

Air Simulator Battles

In air simulator battles, the F-86F-40 (China) is an excellent turn fighter. While the wings with slats do give a lot of angle of attack before stalling, they're also great for turn fights. This Sabre will be able to outturn most jets it can face, at anywhere between 400 and 800 km/h IAS. It is recommended to stay above 600 km/h IAS because any slower the Sabre will struggle to dodge enemy missiles. The AIM-9B should be able to deal with any running/climbing enemy. However, enemies with RWR will get notified if the rangefinding radar is turned on and may drop flares. It is best to keep the radar off when launching a missile attack against aircraft like the German Starfighter or the Mirage III. In battle, stay low and fast and by the time you are up close to your enemy they would not be able to outrun the missiles or outturn the Sabre.

Ground Simulator Battles CAS

In ground simulator battles, F-86F-40 can be a multirole fighter depending on the task to complete. In ground attack, the HVAR rockets will struggle with most targets at the top simulator bracket, but do offer better accuracy per 100 m when compared to the Bombs. The 1,000 lb bombs are very reliable against all levels of protection but take a higher approach for a accurate drop (lack of bomb sight). In an air superiority role, the Sabre will preform even better than it did in air simulator battles. The 6 x .50 cal MGs will make quick work of any enemy helicopter, even if they try to manoeuvre, the Sabre's roll rate should allow for last second adjustments. Turnfighting enemy fighter also got easier as the chances of them carrying bombs/rockets are up, thus limiting their performance. Tree-top level flying should be practiced to avoid SAMs. -->

Radars

The F-86F-40 is equipped with an AN/APG-30 rangefinding radar, located in the nose of the aircraft. It will automatically detect other planes within the scanning area and display the range to the closest target. It is linked with a gyro gunsight and can help with aiming at close range. Note that this Radar will trigger RWR of enemy helicopters and jets and may lead to them using flares which will defeat the AIM-9B.

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Outstanding manoeuvrability
  • Can wield air-to-air missiles
  • Good guns: the 12.7 mm MGs have lots of ammo, straight bullet trajectory, and adequate velocity
  • Air-to-ground armament, such as bombs and missiles
  • Excellent roll rate
  • Great dive acceleration makes it a nice diver
  • Good energy retention in a climb
  • Stable shooting platform during high speeds
  • Air brakes and flaps allow for tight manoeuvres and enemy overshoots at the cost of reduced speed

Cons:

  • Mediocre acceleration
  • Mediocre top speed
  • Weak one-second burst mass of the armament
  • High speed manoeuvres can lead to wings breaking apart
  • Slower turn rate than many contemporaries

History

The F-86 is considered one of the best fighter jets of the Korean War. It is the most-produced Western fighter, with almost 10,000 aircraft produced by the US, Australia, Canada (as the re-engined CL-13), Italy, and Japan.

The F-86 was developed by North American Aviation, the creator of the venerable P-51 Mustang. The XP-86 prototype was created to meet the USAF requirement for a high-altitude escort fighter. It was derived from the Navy's FJ-1 Fury, a transitional fighter jet that borrowed the wings, tail surfaces and canopy from the P-51D. The XP-86 was under threat of cancellation because the XP-80 and XP-84 had similar performance characteristics and were farther ahead in development. However, North American designers made a radical change to the design and replaced the straight wing with a swept wing, which was shown by seized German research to greatly reduce drag and increase performance at high speed. The resulting performance boost was so significant that the swept-wing prototype of the XP-86 was supposedly able break the sound barrier in a dive a few days before Chuck Yeager made his official attempt.

The F-86F is a further development of the F-86E, which introduced a full power-operated control system and the all-flying tail, in which the entire horizontal stabilizer moves to significantly increase the aircraft's manoeuvrability at high speed. The F-86F is fitted with the uprated J47-GE-27 engine. The leading edge slats featured on earlier Sabre models were removed in later production versions of the F-86F in favor of more space for fuel. Some of the earlier F-86F models had the static leading edge slats retrofitted. It also carried over the capability to carry tactical nuclear weapons from the F-86E.

To cover the shortfall of F-86s for export, production of the F-86 was restarted by North American. The new production block, the F-86F-40-NA, differed from the preceding production block in having a new wing. While Blocks 25 to 35 had been equipped with the slatless 6-3 wing, the Block 40 saw the airframe retain the 6-3 proportioned wing, but with an introduction of the slats in order to improve low-speed handling, and the wingtips extended so the overall span was increased from 37.12 to 39.11 ft. This lowered the stall speed of the F-86F-40-NA from 144 to 124 mph, and decreased the take-off run by 800 ft. Despite these modifications adding 250 lb to the F-86F-40-NA's weight when compared with the earlier F-86F-35-NA, overall performance remained the same.

In 1954, the Republic Of China, led by Generalissimo Chiang Kai-Shek's Kuomintang, started to order F-86 from the US. Next year, RF-86F, reconnaissance versions of the F-86F, were delivered to the Republic Of China's Air Force (ROCAF). During the second Taiwan Strait Crisis in 1958, the F-86 composed the backbone of the ROCAF. Through "Operation Black Magic", ROCAF Sabres were equipped with AIM-9B Sidewinders, which proved effective against the People's Liberation Army Air Force's (PLAAF) MiG-15s and MiG-17s. One was reported to have hit a MiG-17 but failed to detonate, the missile was later brought back to mainland China and later given to the USSR, where it was reverse engineered into the R-3S.

In the 1970, the F-86 was retired from service in the ROCAF and repurposed for training duties, by 1977 all F-86 planes were fully retired. Now a days one can find some ROCAF F-86 in parks throughout the island.

Media

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

See also

Related development
  • Canadair Sabre (those Sabres manufactured with the designator "CL")
  • North American F-86D Sabre
  • North American F-100 Super Sabre
  • North American FJ-4 Fury
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links


North American Aviation
Fighters 
P-51A  P-51
P-51C  P-51C-10
P-51D  P-51D-5 · P-51D-10 · P-51D-20-NA · P-51D-30
P-51H  P-51H-5-NA
Twin-engine fighters  F-82E
Jet fighters  F-86A-5 · F-86F-2 · F-86F-25 · F-86F-35 · F-100D
Strike aircraft  A-36 · PBJ-1H · PBJ-1J
  FJ-4B · FJ-4B VMF-232
Bombers  B-25J-1 · B-25J-20
Export/Licence  ▂B-25J-30 · ␗B-25J-30
  ▄Mustang Mk IA · F-6C-10-NA · ␗P-51D-20 · J26 David · J26 · P-51D-20-NA · ␗P-51K
  F-86F-30 ▅ · ␗F-86F-30 · F-86F-40 ▅ · F-86F-40 JASDF▅ · ␗F-86F-40
  ◄F-86K · ▄F-86K (Italy) · ▄F-86K (France)
  ␗F-100A · ▄F-100D · ␗F-100F
Captured  ▅P-51C-11-NT
  Canadair Limited license-built the F-86 as the CL-13 for use in Canada and export to Europe.
  Fiat license-built the F-86K for the Italian Air Force though another 120 NAA built F-86Ks were also sold to the Italians.
See Also  Mitsubishi Heavy Industries · Canadair Limited · Fiat Aviation

China jet aircraft
Fighters  J-2 · J-4 · Shenyang F-5 · J-6A · J-7II · J-7D · J-7E · J-8B · J-8F · J-11
Strike aircraft  Q-5 early · Q-5A · Q-5L · A-5C · JH-7A
Bombers  H-5
American  ␗F-84G-21-RE · ␗F-84G-31-RE · ␗F-86F-30 · ␗F-86F-40 · ␗F-100A · ␗F-100F · ␗F-104A · ␗F-104G · ␗F-5A · ␗F-5E · ␗F-16A MLU
Soviet  ␗MiG-9 · ␗MiG-9 (l)