Difference between revisions of "Firefly F Mk I"

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{{Specs-Card|code=firefly_mk1}}
 
{{Specs-Card|code=firefly_mk1}}
{{Notice|''This page is about the aircraft '''{{PAGENAME}}'''. For other uses, see [[Firefly_(Disambiguation)|Firefly (Disambiguation)]]''}}
+
{{About
 +
| about = British fighter '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| other
 +
| usage-1 = the other version
 +
| link-1 = Firefly FR Mk V
 +
| usage-2 = other uses
 +
| link-2 = Firefly (Disambiguation)
 +
}}
 +
 
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
<!--''In the description, the first part needs to 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. If the novice player does not remember the vehicle by name, he will immediately understand what kind of vehicle it 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.'' -->
 
+
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left|The '''{{PAGENAME}}''' in the garage]]
 
 
{{break}}
 
{{break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a Rank {{Specs|rank}} British fighter {{Battle-rating|3}}. This aircraft was introduced in [[Update 1.49 "Weapons of Victory"]].
+
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} British fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.49 "Weapons of Victory"]].
  
Within War Thunder the Firefly F Mk I is a Rank III aircraft situated early on in the Fleet Air Arm line. The distinctive feature of the Firefly Mk I is its characteristic chin radiator that supports the powerful Rolls Royce Griffon engine, later variants of which can also be seen on the late model Spitfire and Seafires. The aircraft is one of the first examples of a 4 cannon fighter aircraft available to pilots and boasts an impressive array of external weaponry to complement this. Thanks to a recent patch update, its 4 x 20mm Hispano Mk II cannons now carry 160 rounds per gun, increasing its total capacity to 640 rounds.
+
Within War Thunder, the Firefly F Mk I is a Rank III aircraft situated early on in the Fleet Air Arm line. The distinctive feature of the Firefly Mk I is its characteristic chin radiator that supports the powerful Rolls-Royce Griffon engine, later variants of which can also be seen on the late model Spitfires and Seafire. The aircraft is one of the first examples of a 4 cannon fighter aircraft available to pilots and boasts an impressive array of external weaponry to complement this.
  
This allows pilots of the Firefly to have more opportunities to attack enemy aircraft or ground targets with its guns. However trigger discipline should still be practiced in order to get the most out of it when it is being operated solely as a fighter. The Firefly can also mount 2 x 250lb, 2 x 500lb or 2 x 1000lb bombs with one under each wing. The final weapon upgrade, HRC Mk 8, allows for the instillation of 8 x 76mm RP-3 rockets, further boosting its ground attack capabilities.
+
Its 4 x 20mm Hispano Mk II cannons carry 160 rounds per gun for a total capacity of 640 rounds. This allows pilots of the Firefly to have more opportunities to attack enemy aircraft or ground targets with its guns. However, trigger discipline should still be practised in order to get the most out of it when it is being operated solely as a fighter. The Firefly can also mount 2 x 250 lb, 2 x 500 lb or 2 x 1,000 lb bombs with one under each wing. The final weapon upgrade, "HRC mk.8", allows for the installation of 8 x 76mm RP-3 rockets, further boosting its ground attack capabilities.
  
The Firefly often struggles in initial climbing due to the heavy weight and large size of the aircraft. Once engaged however, the Firefly’s “Ace” combat advantage is its exceptional two stage combat flaps. Unlike most aircraft where the flap simply deploys from the wing, the Firefly’s flaps actually swing back to enlarge the wing surface as a whole and create much more lift. This allows it to turn exceptionally well at low speeds without external ordnance attached and makes landings very simple to perform even on carriers. Coupled with a wide track and durable undercarriage, the Firefly rounds off to be a very forgiving aircraft to fly.
+
The Firefly often struggles in initial climbing due to the heavy weight and large size of the aircraft. Once engaged, however, the Firefly's "Ace" combat advantage is its exceptional two stage combat flaps. Unlike most aircraft where the flap simply deploys from the wing, the Firefly's flaps actually swing back to enlarge the wing surface as a whole and create much more lift. This allows it to turn exceptionally well at low speeds without external ordnance attached and makes landings very simple to perform even on carriers. Coupled with a wide track and durable undercarriage, the Firefly rounds off to be a very forgiving aircraft to fly.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
<!--''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, manoeuverability, speed 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.''
 +
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
Line 27: Line 35:
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
|-
 
|-
! AB
+
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
|479
+
| 486 || 470 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 22.2 || 23.1 || 10 || 10 || 480
|470|| {{Specs|ceiling}} ||22.5||23.2||10.0||10.0||480
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,572 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 4,572 m)
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
+
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 
|-
 
|-
! AB
+
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
|538||508|| {{Specs|ceiling}} ||19.6||21.0||18.6||12.7||480
+
| 533 || 508 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 19.9 || 21.0 || 16.1 || 12.7 || 480
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
====Details====
+
==== Details ====
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
! colspan="5" | Features
 
|-
 
|-
! Combat flap
+
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
! Take-off flap
 
! Landing flap
 
! Air brakes
 
! Arrestor gear
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
 
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓    <!-- ✓ -->
Line 79: Line 72:
 
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
 
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Combat flaps<br>(km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
! +
+
! + !! -
! -
 
 
|-
 
|-
| {{Specs|разрушение|конструкции}} || {{Specs|разрушение|шасси}} || 700 || ~9 || ~5
+
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || 700 || ~10 || ~5
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 98: Line 90:
 
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
| < 321 || < 400 || < 410 || > 350
+
| < 321 || < 400 || < 410 || > 316
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 112: Line 104:
 
! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
| 1,980 m || 1,510 hp || 1,784 hp  
+
| 1,980 m || 1,510 hp || 1,784 hp
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
! colspan="3" | Setting 2
Line 120: Line 112:
 
! WEP Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
|-
| 4,350 m || 1,370 hp || 1,603 hp  
+
| 4,350 m || 1,370 hp || 1,603 hp
|-
 
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 3
 
|-
 
! Optimal altitude
 
! 100% Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
 
|-
 
|-
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? hp
 
|- -->
 
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
 
=== Survivability and armour ===
<!--''Examine the survivability of the aircraft. Note how vulnerable the structure is and how secure the pilot is, whether the fuel tanks are armoured. Describe the armour, if there is any, 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.'' -->
 
* 42.8 mm Bulletproof glass in cockpit front.
 
* 42.8 mm Bulletproof glass in cockpit front.
 
* 12.7 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.
 
* 12.7 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.
Line 141: Line 125:
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
<!--''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|Hispano Mk.II (20 mm)}}
 
{{main|Hispano Mk.II (20 mm)}}
  
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
* 4 x 20 mm Hispano Mk II cannons, wing-mounted (175 rpg outer + 145 rpg inner = 640 total)
+
* 4 x 20 mm Hispano Mk.II cannons, wing-mounted (175 rpg outer + 145 rpg inner = 640 total)
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
<!--''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. 250 lb Mk.IV (250 lb)|G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV (500 lb)|M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I (1,000 lb)|RP-3}}
  
{{main|:Category:Suspended armaments|l1=Suspended armaments}}
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordinance:
 
 
* Without load
 
* Without load
* 2 x 250 lb bombs
+
* 2 x 250 lb G.P. 250 lb Mk.IV bombs (500 lb total)
* 2 x G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV bombs
+
* 2 x 500 lb G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV bombs (1,000 lb total)
* 2 x M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs
+
* 2 x 1,000 lb M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs (2,000 lb total)
* 8 x 76 mm RP-3 rockets
+
* 8 x RP-3 rockets
  
<!--=== Defensive armament ===
+
== Usage in battles ==
''Defensive armament with turret machine guns or cannons, crewed by gunners. Examine the number of gunners and what belts or drums are better to use. If defensive weaponry is not available, remove this subsection.''
+
''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).''
-->
 
== Usage in the battles ==
 
<!--''Describe the tactics of playing in an aircraft, the features of using vehicles in a 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. 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===
+
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 
|-
 
|-
! rowspan="2" |Mixer
+
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
! rowspan="2" |Pitch
+
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
! colspan="3" |Radiator
+
! colspan="3" | Radiator
! rowspan="2" |Supercharger
+
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
! rowspan="2" |Turbocharger
+
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 
|-
 
|-
! Oil
+
! Oil !! Water !! Type
! Water
 
! Type  
 
 
|-
 
|-
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Controllable || rowspan="2" | Combined || rowspan="2" | Controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
===Modules===
+
=== Modules ===
 
{| class="wikitable"
 
{| class="wikitable"
! colspan="1" | Tier
+
! Tier
 
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
! colspan="1" | Survivability
+
! Survivability
 
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
|-
 
|-
 
| I
 
| I
| Fuselage Repair
+
| Fuselage repair
 
| Radiator
 
| Radiator
|  
+
|
|  
+
| Offensive 20 mm
 +
| HSBC mk.2
 
|-
 
|-
 
| II
 
| II
|  
+
|
 
| Compressor
 
| Compressor
 
| Airframe
 
| Airframe
|  
+
| New 20 mm cannons
 +
| HMBC mk.2
 
|-
 
|-
 
| III
 
| III
| Wings Repair
+
| Wings repair
 
| Engine
 
| Engine
|  
+
|
|  
+
| Mk.II year 1942
 +
| HLBC mk.2
 
|-
 
|-
 
| IV
 
| IV
|  
+
|
| Engine Injection
+
| Engine injection
 
| Cover
 
| Cover
|  
+
| Mk.II year 1943
 +
| HRC mk.8
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
<!--''Summarise and briefly evaluate the vehicle regarding its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in the 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 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:'''
 +
* 4 x 20 mm Hispano cannons as its armament
 +
* Reasonably manoeuvrable
 +
* Heavy bomb loads (up to 2 x 1,000 lbs)
 +
* Exceptionally large flaps grants the plane the ability to fly at unusually low speeds and still be able to manoeuvre
 +
 +
'''Cons:'''
 +
* Rather slow
 +
* Large target for a single-engine fighter
 +
* Cannons overheat quickly when stock
 +
* Lousy climb rate
 +
* Poor manoeuvrability and generally easy prey for other fighters
 +
 +
== 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).'' -->
 +
The Firefly originated as a replacement for both the Blackburn Skua and Fairey Fulmar designs. The tried and tested the concept of having two crew, a pilot and an observer, proved to be effective for long-range missions where the aircraft would be airborne for an extended period of time. However, the origins of this crew composition were far less well thought out as some of its other features; the late inter-war period saw the British Admiralty insist on two crew members for any naval aircraft other than those intended for point defence, as it was felt that the complexities of over-sea navigation were too complicated for a pilot to carry out whilst simultaneously controlling the aircraft. This would, however, limit the performance of the aircraft due to the extra weight and size. First taking to the skies in 1941, the Firefly had an impressive 4 x 20 mm cannons; a massive improvement over the Fulmar's 8 x 0.303 inch (7.7 mm) Browning machine guns. The first model was to use a Rolls-Royce Griffon IIB engine that was a significant boost over the Fulmar's Rolls-Royce Merlin.
  
* 4 x 20mm Hispano cannons as its armament.
+
Early on, the Firefly had a rough start before finally reaching naval squadrons in 1943 and becoming fully operational in 1944. As well as taking part on the Tirpitz attacks - providing cover and support - the aircraft mainly served with the British Pacific Fleet. Proving its worth in this theatre of operation, the Firefly continued in service and was refined in later models to greatly improve the performance. Fireflies of the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm would once again see service over the skies of Korea in 1950 alongside Seafires and Sea Furies before finally being retired in 1956 after a lengthy career. The Firefly would also serve with several other navies including the Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Netherlands Navy and Royal Australian Navy to name only a few. The Firefly would ultimately bow out of service well into the age of jets to be replaced with this new breed of naval aircraft and another Fairey designed aircraft, the Gannet.
* Reasonably manoeuvrable.
 
* Heavy bomb loads (up to 2x 1000lbs).
 
* Exceptionally large flaps grants the plane the ability to fly at unusually low speeds and still be able to manoeuvre.
 
  
'''Cons:'''
+
=== In-game description ===
 +
The Fairey Aviation Company had a long and successful relationship with the British Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm, perhaps best summed up by test pilot Captain Eric Brown who described their aircraft as supremely versatile, reliable and possessing fine handling qualities, performance and firepower. The Firefly would be no different.
  
* Rather slow.
+
Working under chief designer HE Chaplin, the Fairey team set about answering the call to Naval Spec N.5/40 for a fast, two seat shipborne fighter. The Fairey team had already gained much experience with the successful Fulmar, and had a good basis to work from; however, the Fulmar's Merlin was replaced with the superior Griffon engine and a more advanced, elliptical wing design was adopted, housing an impressive punch of four 20mm Hispano cannon. Further design features included the Youngman area-increasing wing flap. The Firefly was a completely new aircraft rather than an improved Fulmar and was designed from the outset as a true multi-role aircraft with ground strike capabilities. The first prototype was flown successfully in December 1941.
* Large target for a single-engine fighter.
 
* Cannons overheat quickly when stock.
 
* Lousy climb rate.
 
* Poor manoeuverability and generally easy prey for other fighters.
 
  
== History ==
+
A true pilot's aircraft, the Firefly handled well, was notably robust, capable of speeds of 319 mph at 17,000 feet and was a good deck lander, although the pilot's view on final approach was poorer than its predecessor. It also had a range of nearly 1100 miles and could carry eight 60 lb rockets or two 1000 lb bombs in addition to its impressive firepower.
<!-- 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 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 main template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article. -->
 
The Firefly originated as a replacement for both the Blackburn Skua and Fairey Fulmar designs. The tried and tested concept of having two crew, a pilot and an observer, proved to be effective for long range missions where the aircraft would be airborne for an extended period of time. However, the origins of this crew composition were far less well thought out as some of its other features; the late inter-war period saw the British Admiralty insist on two crew members for any naval aircraft other than those intended for point defence, as it was felt that the complexities of over-sea navigation were too complicated for a pilot to carry out whilst simultaneously controlling the aircraft. This would however limit the performance of the aircraft due to the extra weight and size. First taking to the skies in 1941, the Firefly had an impressive 4 x 20mm cannons; a massive improvement over the Fulmar’s 8 x 0.303 inch (7.7mm) Browning Machine guns. The first model was to use a Rolls Royce Griffon IIB engine that was a significant boost over the Fulmar’s Rolls Royce Merlin.
 
  
Early on, the Firefly had a rough start before finally reaching naval squadrons in 1943 and becoming fully operational in 1944. As well as taking part on the Tirpitz attacks - providing cover and support - the aircraft mainly served with the British Pacific Fleet. Proving its worth in this theatre of operation, the Firefly continued in service and was refined in later models to greatly improve the performance. Fireflies of the Royal Navy’s Fleet Air Arm would once again see service over the skies of Korea in 1950 alongside Seafires and Sea Furies before finally being retired in 1956 after a lengthy career. The Firefly would also serve with several other navies including the Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Netherlands Navy and Royal Australian Navy to name only a few. The Firefly would ultimately bow out of service well into the age of jets only to be replaced with this new breed of naval aircraft and another Fairey designed aircraft, the Gannet.
+
After a further period of testing and consolidation which led to the adoption of a horn balanced rudder and metal ailerons, an order for 200 Firefly I aircraft was placed and the first examples rolled off the production line in March 1943. After carrier trials in July, 1770 Naval Air Squadron was formed as the first Firefly squadron at RNAS Yeovilton in October 1943. Fireflies acquitted themselves well in their part in the series of strikes against the German battleship Tirpitz and in anti-shipping sorties in the ETO, but it would be in the Far East that the new fighter/strike aircraft would prove its worth. Playing not only an integral role in the ground attack elements of the famous Palembang raids, the Firefly also accounted for three Japanese fighters destroyed in air-to-air combat. Some 800 Firefly I's were built and continued to serve with distinction until the end of the war, but further advances in the design meant that the end of the war was certainly not the end of the Firefly's story.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
''An excellent addition to the article will be video guides, as well as screenshots from the game and photos.''
+
''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.''
 
 
== Read also ==
 
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
 
  
 +
== 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;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
<!--''ETC.''-->
 
 
== Sources ==
 
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
  
 +
== External links ==
 +
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
* ''other literature.''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
 +
* [https://warthunder.com/en/news/3991--en [Devblog<nowiki>]</nowiki> Fairey Firefly F.Mk.I and F.Mk.V]
  
{{Britain fighters}}
+
{{AirManufacturer Fairey}}
 +
{{Britain strike and twin-engine fighters}}

Revision as of 20:18, 30 December 2019

Rank VI USSR | Premium | Golden Eagles
Su-25K Pack
firefly_mk1.png
Firefly F Mk I
Research:18 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:47 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game
This page is about the British fighter Firefly F Mk I. For the other version, see Firefly FR Mk V. For other uses, see Firefly (Disambiguation).

Description

GarageImage Firefly F Mk I.jpg


The Firefly F Mk I is a rank III British fighter with a battle rating of 3.7 (AB), 3.3 (RB), and 4.0 (SB). It was introduced in Update 1.49 "Weapons of Victory".

Within War Thunder, the Firefly F Mk I is a Rank III aircraft situated early on in the Fleet Air Arm line. The distinctive feature of the Firefly Mk I is its characteristic chin radiator that supports the powerful Rolls-Royce Griffon engine, later variants of which can also be seen on the late model Spitfires and Seafire. The aircraft is one of the first examples of a 4 cannon fighter aircraft available to pilots and boasts an impressive array of external weaponry to complement this.

Its 4 x 20mm Hispano Mk II cannons carry 160 rounds per gun for a total capacity of 640 rounds. This allows pilots of the Firefly to have more opportunities to attack enemy aircraft or ground targets with its guns. However, trigger discipline should still be practised in order to get the most out of it when it is being operated solely as a fighter. The Firefly can also mount 2 x 250 lb, 2 x 500 lb or 2 x 1,000 lb bombs with one under each wing. The final weapon upgrade, "HRC mk.8", allows for the installation of 8 x 76mm RP-3 rockets, further boosting its ground attack capabilities.

The Firefly often struggles in initial climbing due to the heavy weight and large size of the aircraft. Once engaged, however, the Firefly's "Ace" combat advantage is its exceptional two stage combat flaps. Unlike most aircraft where the flap simply deploys from the wing, the Firefly's flaps actually swing back to enlarge the wing surface as a whole and create much more lift. This allows it to turn exceptionally well at low speeds without external ordnance attached and makes landings very simple to perform even on carriers. Coupled with a wide track and durable undercarriage, the Firefly rounds off to be a very forgiving aircraft to fly.

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 4,572 m)
Max altitude
(meters)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(meters/second)
Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
486 470 10050 22.2 23.1 10 10 480
Upgraded
Max Speed
(km/h at 4,572 m)
Max altitude
(meters)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(meters/second)
Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
533 508 10050 19.9 21.0 16.1 12.7 480

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X
Limits
Wing-break speed
(km/h)
Gear limit
(km/h)
Combat flaps
(km/h)
Max Static G
+ -
700 ~10 ~5
Optimal velocities
Ailerons
(km/h)
Rudder
(km/h)
Elevators
(km/h)
Radiator
(km/h)
< 321 < 400 < 410 > 316
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
1,980 m 1,510 hp 1,784 hp
Setting 2
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
4,350 m 1,370 hp 1,603 hp

Survivability and armour

  • 42.8 mm Bulletproof glass in cockpit front.
  • 12.7 mm Steel plate behind the pilot.
  • Critical components located at the front of aircraft (fuel, pilot, engine, controls)
  • More fuel tanks located in wings near the fuselage

Armaments

Offensive armament

Main article: Hispano Mk.II (20 mm)

The Firefly F Mk I is armed with:

  • 4 x 20 mm Hispano Mk.II cannons, wing-mounted (175 rpg outer + 145 rpg inner = 640 total)

Suspended armament

The Firefly F Mk I can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 2 x 250 lb G.P. 250 lb Mk.IV bombs (500 lb total)
  • 2 x 500 lb G.P. 500 lb Mk.IV bombs (1,000 lb total)
  • 2 x 1,000 lb M.C. 1,000 lb Mk.I bombs (2,000 lb total)
  • 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
Controllable Controllable
Not auto controlled
Not controllable
Not auto controlled
Controllable
Auto control available
Separate Controllable
2 gears
Not controllable

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage repair Radiator Offensive 20 mm HSBC mk.2
II Compressor Airframe New 20 mm cannons HMBC mk.2
III Wings repair Engine Mk.II year 1942 HLBC mk.2
IV Engine injection Cover Mk.II year 1943 HRC mk.8

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • 4 x 20 mm Hispano cannons as its armament
  • Reasonably manoeuvrable
  • Heavy bomb loads (up to 2 x 1,000 lbs)
  • Exceptionally large flaps grants the plane the ability to fly at unusually low speeds and still be able to manoeuvre

Cons:

  • Rather slow
  • Large target for a single-engine fighter
  • Cannons overheat quickly when stock
  • Lousy climb rate
  • Poor manoeuvrability and generally easy prey for other fighters

History

The Firefly originated as a replacement for both the Blackburn Skua and Fairey Fulmar designs. The tried and tested the concept of having two crew, a pilot and an observer, proved to be effective for long-range missions where the aircraft would be airborne for an extended period of time. However, the origins of this crew composition were far less well thought out as some of its other features; the late inter-war period saw the British Admiralty insist on two crew members for any naval aircraft other than those intended for point defence, as it was felt that the complexities of over-sea navigation were too complicated for a pilot to carry out whilst simultaneously controlling the aircraft. This would, however, limit the performance of the aircraft due to the extra weight and size. First taking to the skies in 1941, the Firefly had an impressive 4 x 20 mm cannons; a massive improvement over the Fulmar's 8 x 0.303 inch (7.7 mm) Browning machine guns. The first model was to use a Rolls-Royce Griffon IIB engine that was a significant boost over the Fulmar's Rolls-Royce Merlin.

Early on, the Firefly had a rough start before finally reaching naval squadrons in 1943 and becoming fully operational in 1944. As well as taking part on the Tirpitz attacks - providing cover and support - the aircraft mainly served with the British Pacific Fleet. Proving its worth in this theatre of operation, the Firefly continued in service and was refined in later models to greatly improve the performance. Fireflies of the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm would once again see service over the skies of Korea in 1950 alongside Seafires and Sea Furies before finally being retired in 1956 after a lengthy career. The Firefly would also serve with several other navies including the Royal Canadian Navy, Royal Netherlands Navy and Royal Australian Navy to name only a few. The Firefly would ultimately bow out of service well into the age of jets to be replaced with this new breed of naval aircraft and another Fairey designed aircraft, the Gannet.

In-game description

The Fairey Aviation Company had a long and successful relationship with the British Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm, perhaps best summed up by test pilot Captain Eric Brown who described their aircraft as supremely versatile, reliable and possessing fine handling qualities, performance and firepower. The Firefly would be no different.

Working under chief designer HE Chaplin, the Fairey team set about answering the call to Naval Spec N.5/40 for a fast, two seat shipborne fighter. The Fairey team had already gained much experience with the successful Fulmar, and had a good basis to work from; however, the Fulmar's Merlin was replaced with the superior Griffon engine and a more advanced, elliptical wing design was adopted, housing an impressive punch of four 20mm Hispano cannon. Further design features included the Youngman area-increasing wing flap. The Firefly was a completely new aircraft rather than an improved Fulmar and was designed from the outset as a true multi-role aircraft with ground strike capabilities. The first prototype was flown successfully in December 1941.

A true pilot's aircraft, the Firefly handled well, was notably robust, capable of speeds of 319 mph at 17,000 feet and was a good deck lander, although the pilot's view on final approach was poorer than its predecessor. It also had a range of nearly 1100 miles and could carry eight 60 lb rockets or two 1000 lb bombs in addition to its impressive firepower.

After a further period of testing and consolidation which led to the adoption of a horn balanced rudder and metal ailerons, an order for 200 Firefly I aircraft was placed and the first examples rolled off the production line in March 1943. After carrier trials in July, 1770 Naval Air Squadron was formed as the first Firefly squadron at RNAS Yeovilton in October 1943. Fireflies acquitted themselves well in their part in the series of strikes against the German battleship Tirpitz and in anti-shipping sorties in the ETO, but it would be in the Far East that the new fighter/strike aircraft would prove its worth. Playing not only an integral role in the ground attack elements of the famous Palembang raids, the Firefly also accounted for three Japanese fighters destroyed in air-to-air combat. Some 800 Firefly I's were built and continued to serve with distinction until the end of the war, but further advances in the design meant that the end of the war was certainly not the end of the Firefly's story.

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


Fairey Aviation Company, Limited
Fighters  Firefly F Mk I · Firefly FR Mk V
Bombers  Swordfish Mk I · Swordfish Mk II

Britain strike aircraft
Blackburn  Firebrand TF Mk IV · Firecrest
Bristol  Beaufighter Mk I (40-mm) · Beaufighter Mk VIc · Beaufighter Mk X · Beaufighter Mk 21
CAC  ▄Wirraway
Fairey  Firefly F Mk I · Firefly FR Mk V
de Havilland  Mosquito FB Mk VI · Mosquito FB Mk XVIII
Hawker  Hurricane Mk IV · Tempest Mk V (Vickers P)
Westland  Wyvern S4