Difference between revisions of "Firecrest"

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{{Specs-Card
 
{{Specs-Card
 
|code=b_48_firecrest
 
|code=b_48_firecrest
−
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.png}}
+
|cockpit=442884/1521696
−
|cockpit=cockpit_b_48_firecrest.jpg
 
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
 
<!-- ''In the description, the first part should be about the history of and the creation and combat usage of the aircraft, as well as its key features. In the second part, tell the reader about the aircraft in the game. Insert a screenshot of the vehicle, so that if the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle the article is talking about.'' -->
−
The '''{{Specs|name}}''', given the SBAC designation '''YA.1''', was a single-engine naval strike fighter built by Blackburn Aircraft for service with the British Fleet Air Arm during the Second World War. Developed over the troubled [[Firebrand TF Mk IV|Blackburn Firebrand]] for aircraft operations, three prototypes were created but only two actually flew. The aircraft suffered from many problems, changes in design requirements, lack of components and the halted development of more capable piston engines cemented its destiny. This problems delayed the aircraft production until 1947. At this point, aircrafts like the Meteor started to become more common and other jet powered attackers were already in development, so the Firecrest was deemed obsolete for its time.
+
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
−
 
+
{{break}}
−
It was introduced during [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"]] as one of the first Squadron vehicles. It represents the attempt to develop an improved naval aircraft from the troubled [[Firebrand TF Mk IV|Blackburn Firebrand]]. It could be considered as a hybrid between the Firebrand and a [[F4U (Family)|F4U Corsair]] due to its gull shaped wings, durability, powerful engine and beautiful sleek appearance! Howbeit, it has other traits that make this plane well suited for the naval environment of War Thunder. Armed with a couple of HMGs mounted in the wings, and a single 18 inch Mk XV torpedo, it is not the most capable aircraft in air battles, instead, is more suited for players that are interested in naval battles. It has access to airbrakes and an arrestor gear, which means that it can land and take off from aircraft carriers, while the airbrakes allow the aircraft to lose speed quickly if needed.
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a squadron rank {{Specs|rank}} British fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced during [[Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy"]].
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight performance ===
 
=== Flight performance ===
−
{{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.'' -->
 
  
−
Once upgraded and spaded, the Firecrest is able to go anywhere it must go. Climbing to the sky or speeding steadily to a target. It all can be achieved.
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
−
 
+
|-
−
The Bristol Centaurus 59 engine producing 2,475 hp is able to accelerate pretty quickly, something needed for sea and carrier landing and takeoff operations. This allows the plane to climb consistently to 6 km of altitude where the max speed can also be achieved while conserving all the manoeuvrability due to the supercharger and a great roll rate.
+
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
−
 
+
|-
−
If necessary it can dive very fast and possesses air brakes for handling such speeds with ease. It does not turn that well horizontally but the skilled control of combat flaps and the airbrakes can prove adequate in several instances.
+
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
−
 
+
|-
−
It's recommended to engage planes without carrying ordnance to maximize the flight performance, particularly the torpedo load.
 
−
 
 
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 
−
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,791 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,791 m)
−
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
−
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
+
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
−
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 +
|-
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
|-
 +
| 587 || 568 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.1 || 25.0 || 15.4 || 15.4 || 300
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
|-
 
|-
−
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
+
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,791 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Stock
+
! AB
−
| 587 || 568 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 24.1 || 25.0 || 15.4 || 15.4 || rowspan="2" | 300
+
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 +
! AB
 +
! RB
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Upgraded
+
| ??? || 608 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || ??.? || 23.0 || ??.? || 19 || 300
−
| 636 || 608 || 21.9 || 23.0 || 23.6 || 19.0
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
==== Details ====
 
==== Details ====
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
+
! Combat flaps
 +
! Take-off flaps
 +
! Landing flaps
 +
! Air brakes
 +
! Arrestor gear
 
|-
 
|-
 
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
 
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
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|}
 
|}
  
−
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="7" | Limits
+
! colspan="5" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
−
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
−
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
−
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Combat flaps<br>(km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
+
! +
 +
! -
 
|-
 
|-
−
| {{Specs|destruction|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 430 || 404 || 272 || ~10 || ~4
+
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || 430 || ~10 || ~4
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
−
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
+
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
+
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
 +
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 +
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 +
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
 
| < 460 || < 450 || < 450 || > 330
 
| < 460 || < 450 || < 450 || > 330
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 +
|-
 +
! Optimal altitude
 +
! 100% Engine power
 +
! WEP Engine power
 +
|-
 +
| 1,280 m || 2,580 hp || 2,895 hp
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 +
|-
 +
! Optimal altitude
 +
! 100% Engine power
 +
! WEP Engine power
 +
|-
 +
| 4,980 m || 2,310 hp || 2,587 hp
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Armour}}
+
''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.''
−
<!-- ''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.'' -->
 
−
 
 
−
The pilots should note that no armour protection is present, this will limit the ability to tolerate heavy fire since any armour-piercing bullet is capable of going through the entire plane. The strongest and yet the more vulnerable part of the plane is the engine. No head-on engagements or attacking bombers are advised since the radial engine with the pilot can be easily taken out.
 
−
 
 
−
Separately, the fuselage is quite resilient and sleek. This can often ricochet fire that would otherwise hit the spars and inflict greater damage. The only thing protecting the pilot from behind aside from the fuselage is a fuel tank.
 
−
 
 
−
=== Modifications and economy ===
 
−
{{Specs-Economy}}
 
−
 
 
−
Pilots should focus on improving most of the flight performance first then the payloads, since this plane won't perform like it should when stock. Rockets, bombs and torpedoes should be secondary.
 
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
−
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|M3 Browning (12.7 mm)}}
+
{{main|Browning M3 (12.7 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
  
−
* 2 x 12.7 mm M3 Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (300 rpg = 600 total)
+
* 2 x 12.7 mm Browning M3 machine guns, wing-mounted (300 rpg = 600 total)
−
 
 
−
Here's the main difficulty of the Firecrest: its offensive armament.
 
−
 
 
−
The M3 Browning machine guns are amazing for quick and precise attack. They will inflict severe damage or ignite the enemy plane, mainly because of the rapid fire of the 2 machine guns. What pilots should be constantly alert about, is the ammo counter, since these machine guns will deplete all the ammo very quickly.
 
−
 
 
−
Fixing a convergence up to the preference of attack and having the right ammo belt is necessary, as the low ammo input does not allow for long bursts or consecutive leading shots. It's also relevant to note that such machine guns are generally only available on American jets such as the [[F-86A-5|Sabres]] and [[F-84 (Family)|Thunderjets]]', thus making the Firecrest one of the few piston planes with such machine guns.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Most notable/useful ammo belts'''
 
−
 
 
−
* '''Tracers''': These bullets are completely visible, they will help to adapt with the ballistics of this unique machine gun for the British. They will start a lot of fires thanks to all the bullets being API-T (Armour-piercing incendiary tracer) with a good 23 mm of armour penetration.
 
−
* '''Default''': This ammo belt offers 2 types of incendiary ammunition, while it also carries full solid AP bullets. This increases the penetration damage for spars, armour plates or engines while also being able to make the rival plane burn.
 
−
* '''Ground targets''': This belt is not commended for anything heavier than light tanks or fully enclosed vehicles, as only a section of it carries full AP bullets. This performs as an all-purpose belt due to the large diversity of bullets that conform it. Great if required to engage all kinds of targets, ceding less ammo count of a specific type.
 
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
−
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
−
{{main|G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb)|RP-3|18 inch Mark XV (450 mm)}}
+
{{main|G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV (500 lb)|RP-3|Mark XV}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
−
* 2 x 500 lb G.P. Mk.IV bombs (1,000 lb total)
+
* 2 x 500 lb G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV bombs (1,000 lb total)
−
* 1 x 450 mm (18 inch) Mark XV torpedo
+
* 1 x Mark XV torpedo
 
* 8 x RP-3 rockets
 
* 8 x RP-3 rockets
−
 
−
[[RP-3|RP-3 rockets]] - These are exceptional for many objectives. They have good armour penetration, moderate velocity and satisfactory amount of explosive mass when matched to contemporaries as US's [[HVAR]] or the Soviet's [[RBS-132]].
 
−
 
−
Appropriate for most tanks excluding some heavy tanks like the Soviet KV series or the German captured variant, the KV I C 756 with a very tough turret of 105 mm. Targeting at the top of these tanks is suggested. Naval objectives such as patrol boats can be annihilated in one single shot; a real spectacle. Destroyers or anything heavier could withstand more damage, but their modules and crew will be decimated by these rockets.
 
−
 
−
[[G.P. Mk.IV (500 lb)|500 lb G.P Bombs]] - They involve some skills at the moment of delivery since the lethal range for armoured targets is only of 4 m. For naval targets the lethal range is less of a drawback but the actual obstacle is dropping such bombs over AA covered ships. Pilots should note that these bombs might not consistently be enough to sink destroyers or anything bigger.
 
−
 
−
[[18 inch Mark XV (450 mm)|Mark XV torpedo]] - It's when everything else doesn't seem enough that the torpedo joins into action. This ultimate ship destroyer is very capable and usually one sole hit is enough. What is more important, is the way to deliver the torpedo without sacrificing the plane.
 
  
 
== 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 an 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).''
−
 
 
−
The Firecrest is an experimental torpedo bomber with average capacities. It has low anti-air effectiveness in Air Arcade battles due to rather clumsy manoeuvring and no armour protection. A good pilot is needed to fully exploit the handy machine guns this plane is armed with. It has a place in Ground Realistic Battles, thanks to its payload capacities and the extremely powerful 8 x RP-3 rockets. However its best place is in Naval Battles, where is possible to engage more freely in wider spaces and make use of the full ordnance capacities (once the Mark XV torpedo is unlocked for use). Due to the lacklustre firepower when stock, one of the recommended ways to gain the necessary research points for unlocking modules is to simply attack AI targets like artillery and trucks, then tanks as the 500 lb bombs are unlocked prior to the torpedoes.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Naval Battles'''
 
−
 
 
−
Once the torpedoes are unlocked, the Firecrest performs similarly to other torpedo bombers of the rank. One of the outstanding traits is in its high survivability that can help in destroying one target if the tactics are played to the plane's strength (the good roll is perfect for low altitude flying). Aim towards destroyers or cruisers as they are larger targets that are easier to hit and prioritize the vessels that are threatening allies on the seas. However, try to ensure that the enemy ship is occupied with attacking surface targets so that their anti-air armament is not focused on the Firecrest to allow for some breathing room to position for an attack run.
 
−
 
 
−
'''Encounter mode''' proves to be one of the best for this plane. Here will be possible to infiltrate by the sides at low-level flight behind the enemies to the cargo ships, and release a torpedo from a safe distance. Always keeping in mind the torpedo drop requirements and the target. Is possible to risk a bit more if equipping bombs, but a tactic that might also work is to skip the bombs to the cargo ship swiftly retreating in the same direction, in a tactic that is known as skip bombing.
 
  
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
=== Manual Engine Control ===
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! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
−
! Oil !! Water !! Type
+
! Oil
 +
! Water
 +
! Type
 
|-
 
|-
−
| Not controllable || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
+
| Not controllable || Not controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
−
The main aspects of using MEC with this aircraft are the Supercharger and Radiators, since this will increase drastically the climb and high altitude performance as well as the dive speed and energy retention.
+
=== Modules ===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! colspan="1" | Tier
 +
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 +
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 +
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 +
|-
 +
| I
 +
| Fuselage repair
 +
| Radiator
 +
|
 +
|
 +
| HMBC mk.2
 +
|-
 +
| II
 +
|
 +
| Compressor
 +
| Airframe
 +
| Offensive 12 mm
 +
| FTC mk.IV
 +
|-
 +
| III
 +
| Wings repair
 +
| Engine
 +
|
 +
|
 +
| HRC mk.8
 +
|-
 +
| IV
 +
|
 +
| Engine injection
 +
| Cover
 +
| New 12 mm MGs
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
−
<!-- ''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".'' -->
+
<!--Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the bulleted list. Try not to use more than 6 points for each of the characteristics. Avoid using categorical definitions such as "bad", "good" and the like - use substitutions with softer forms such as "inadequate" and "effective".-->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
−
* High rate of fire of M3 Browning provides rapid damage output
+
* M3 .50 cals can do serious damage if used correctly, and have a high rate of fire
−
* Good top speed overall with decent acceleration; excellent high speed control
+
* Good top speed overall
−
* Respectably durable airframe
+
* Respectably durable
−
* Has RP-3s and bombs against ground targets
 
−
* Good all altitude performance thanks to supercharger
 
−
* Has airbrakes (can be used as a dive bomber)
 
−
* Excellent roll rate
 
−
* Above average stock performance
 
−
* [[18 inch Mark XV (450 mm)|Mark XV]] torpedo is effective against ships; RP-3 lethal versus small PT-boats
 
−
* Attacker spawn in Air RB
 
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
−
* Bleeds speed easily and not very manoeuvrable, especially at low speeds
+
* Not very maneuverable, especially at low speeds
−
* Only 300 rounds per machine gun; trigger discipline is needed for the pair of machine guns
+
* Only two machine guns = limited damage output at the rank
−
* Limited payload options compared to Firebrand and contemporary naval planes of the Fleet Air Arm
+
* Limited payload options
−
* Large engine with no armour plates; not recommended to engage bombers
 
−
* No armour anywhere; even just a few .50 cal rounds can seriously damage vital components
 
−
* Large target, most dedicated fighters will run circles around the plane
 
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
−
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
+
''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).''
−
 
 
−
The Blackburn Firecrest was a British Torpedo Strike Fighter, derived from the earlier [[Firebrand TF Mk IV|Blackburn Firebrand]] but designed from the outset as a torpedo strike fighter. Designed to the S.28/43 specification set by the Admiralty on February 26th 1943 for a 'Firebrand Torpedo Fighter with improved wing and improved pilot view', the Firecrest was designed with a number of issues of the Firebrand in mind. Specifically, effort was done to produce a type which had improved forward visibility to facilitate deck landings, and which had better lateral control at landing speeds. The design specification also called for the Firecrest to be powered by a Bristol Centaurus 77 engine powering a contra-rotating propeller.
 
−
 
 
−
Early on during its design, the Admiralty also ordered three prototypes which would have been driven by the Napier E.122 24-cylinder H-block engine, a 3500 hp development of the Napier Sabre used on the original Firebrand. However, it was soon found that in order to maintain an acceptable center of gravity, the heavy Napier engine would have to be installed behind the cockpit, which would require an extensive redesign and add considerable weight to the aircraft. As a result, the Napier E.122 powered variant was cancelled in October of 1945 before metal was cut on any of their prototypes. Just before completion of the design, the Centaurus 77 variant with its contra-rotating propeller was cancelled in January of 1946, and it was replaced by a 2,825 hp Centaurus 57 with a conventional five-bladed propeller. The first of three completed prototypes of the Firecrest flew on April 1st 1947.
 
−
 
 
−
The Firecrest differed from the Firebrand in having a cockpit that was set higher and more forward than that of the Firebrand, which combined with a shortened nose did improve the forward visibility during deck landing. A redesigned inverted gull wing conceptually not unlike that of the Vought Corsair did much to improve the type's low speed handling and take off characteristics: even at full weight, take-off was possible in just under 430 ft with a 29 mph headwind; its landing run was an impressive 390 ft with a 5 mph headwind. With its conventional five-bladed propeller, the Firecrest's top speed lay at 380 mph, some 38 mph faster than the Firebrand despite weighing slightly more. Unlike the Firebrand which used hand-folded wings, the Firecrest had power-assisted folding wings with a double fold.
 
−
 
 
−
However, it soon became apparent that the Firecrest was even more sluggish in handling than the Firebrand, that the design in itself did not give any distinct advantages over the Firebrand or the newly developed [[Wyvern_S4|Westland Wyvern]], and that it was less versatile than types such as the [[Firefly_FR_Mk_V|Fairey Firefly]] or [[Sea_Fury_FB_11|Hawker Sea Fury]]. As a result, all development work on the Firecrest ceased in September of 1947, with the second prototype only being used for structural testing, and the third prototype used to test the power-boosted ailerons which were eventually fitted to the Firebrand TF.5A. All three prototypes were bought back by Blackburn in 1950, and scrapped in 1952.
 
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
−
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
+
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
  
−
;Skins
+
== See also ==
 +
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
  
−
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=b_48_firecrest Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
 
−
 
−
;Videos
 
−
{{Youtube-gallery|qoZv-sA80aI|'''Squadron Vehicles''' discusses the Firecrest at 02:10 - ''War Thunder Official Channel''}}
 
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''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
  
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* [[Firebrand TF Mk IV]]
 
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'''Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era:'''
 
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* [[F4U (Family)|F4U Corsair (Family)]]
 
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* [[Firefly FR Mk V]]
 
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* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/457979-b48-firecrest/ Official data sheet - more details about the performance]
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{{Britain fighters}}
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* [[wikipedia:Blackburn_Firecrest|[Wikipedia] Blackburn Firecrest]]
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{{Britain squadron aircraft}}
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* [https://www.baesystems.com/en/heritage/blackburn-b-48-firecrest <nowiki>[BAE Systems]</nowiki> Blackburn B-48 Firecrest]
 
  
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{{AirManufacturer Blackburn}}
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[[Category:Squadron aircraft]]
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{{Britain strike aircraft}}
 
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{{Squadron aircraft}}
 

Revision as of 14:00, 28 August 2019

Rank 6 USA
F-5C Pack
Firecrest
b_48_firecrest.png
Firecrest
Britain flag.png Britain
II Rank
Battle rating:
AB RB SB
2.7 2.3 3.3
Class:
SQUADRON
Research:155 000 Specs-Card-Activity.png
Purchase:32 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

GarageImage Firecrest.jpg


The Firecrest is a squadron rank II British fighter with a battle rating of 2.7 (AB), 2.3 (RB), and 3.3 (SB). It was introduced during Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy".

General info

Flight performance

Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Speed, manoeuvrability, acceleration and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.

Characteristics
Stock
Max Speed
(km/h at 5,791 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
587 568 10975 24.1 25.0 15.4 15.4 300
Upgraded
Max Speed
(km/h at 5,791 m) 		Max altitude
(meters) 		Turn time
(seconds) 		Rate of climb
(meters/second) 		Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
 ??? 608 10975  ??.? 23.0  ??.? 19 300

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓
Limits
Wing-break speed
(km/h) 		Gear limit
(km/h) 		Combat flaps
(km/h) 		Max Static G
+ -
430 ~10 ~4
Optimal velocities
Ailerons
(km/h) 		Rudder
(km/h) 		Elevators
(km/h) 		Radiator
(km/h)
< 460 < 450 < 450 > 330
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
1,280 m 2,580 hp 2,895 hp
Setting 2
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
4,980 m 2,310 hp 2,587 hp

Survivability and armour

Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured, etc. Describe the armour, if there is any, and also mention the vulnerability of other critical aircraft systems.

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: Browning M3 (12.7 mm)

The Firecrest is armed with:

  • 2 x 12.7 mm Browning M3 machine guns, wing-mounted (300 rpg = 600 total)

Suspended armament

Main articles: G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV (500 lb), RP-3, Mark XV

The Firecrest can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 2 x 500 lb G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV bombs (1,000 lb total)
  • 1 x Mark XV torpedo
  • 8 x RP-3 rockets

Usage in battles

Describe the tactics of playing in an 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).

Manual Engine Control

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

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage repair Radiator HMBC mk.2
II Compressor Airframe Offensive 12 mm FTC mk.IV
III Wings repair Engine HRC mk.8
IV Engine injection Cover New 12 mm MGs

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • M3 .50 cals can do serious damage if used correctly, and have a high rate of fire
  • Good top speed overall
  • Respectably durable

Cons:

  • Not very maneuverable, especially at low speeds
  • Only two machine guns = limited damage output at the rank
  • Limited payload options

History

Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <ref></ref>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <references />. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under === In-game description ===, also if applicable).

Media

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

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 aircraft;
  • links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.

External links

Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:

  • topic on the official game forum;
  • encyclopedia page on the aircraft;
  • other literature.


Britain fighters
Fury  Fury Mk I · Fury Mk II
Nimrod  Nimrod Mk I · Nimrod Mk II
Gladiator  Gladiator Mk II · Tuck's Gladiator Mk II · Gladiator Mk IIF · Gladiator Mk IIS
Sea Gladiator  Sea Gladiator Mk I
Hurricane  Hurricane Mk I/L · Hurricane Mk.I/L FAA M · Hurricane Mk IIB/Trop
Sea Hurricane  Sea Hurricane Mk IB · Sea Hurricane Mk IC
Martin-Baker  MB.5
Spitfire (early-Merlin)  Spitfire Mk Ia · Spitfire Mk IIa · Spitfire Mk.IIa Venture I · Spitfire Mk IIb · Spitfire Mk Vb/trop · Spitfire Mk Vb · Spitfire Mk Vc/trop · Spitfire Mk Vc
Spitfire (late-Merlin)  Spitfire F Mk IX · Spitfire LF Mk IX · Spitfire F Mk IXc · Plagis' Spitfire LF Mk IXc · Spitfire F Mk XVI
Spitfire (Griffon)  Spitfire F Mk XIVc · Spitfire F Mk XIVe · Prendergast's Spitfire FR Mk XIVe · Spitfire F Mk XVIIIe · Spitfire F Mk 22 · Spitfire F Mk 24
Seafire  Seafire LF Mk.III · Seafire F Mk XVII · Seafire FR 47
Typhoon  Typhoon Mk Ia · Typhoon Mk Ib · Typhoon Mk Ib/L
Tempest  Tempest Mk II · Tempest Mk V
Sea Fury  Sea Fury FB 11
Twin-engine fighters  Hornet Mk.I · Hornet Mk.III · Whirlwind Mk I · Whirlwind P.9
  Foreign:
Australia  ▄Boomerang Mk I · ▄Boomerang Mk II
France  ▄D.520 · ▄D.521
USA  ▄Martlet Mk IV · ▄Corsair F Mk II · ▄Hellcat Mk II · ▄Thunderbolt Mk.1 · ▄Mustang Mk IA

Britain squadron aircraft
Firecrest · Sea Harrier FRS.1

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