Difference between revisions of "IAR-81C"

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== 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 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.''-->
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<!-- ''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]]
{{break}}
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{{Break}}
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium Rank {{Specs|rank}} Italian fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update_1.79_"Project_X"|Update 1.79 "Project X"]]. It is the first domestic-produced Romanian plane in the game, added into the Italian tree.
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The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a premium rank {{Specs|rank}} Italian fighter {{Battle-rating}}. It was introduced in [[Update 1.79 "Project X"]]. It is the first domestic-produced Romanian plane in the game, added into the Italian tree.<br>
 +
 
 +
This variant is the up-gunned version, designated 81C and it excels at ground support. Boasting good offensive firepower and decent payload options for a converted fighter, the IAR-81 is capable of multiple roles. Harassing enemy ground forces only to follow up by securing the air space is among tactics typical for this type of fighter. While there are no obvious shortcomings to this fighter, neither does it excel in any category. The combat role flexibility is a force multiplier especially on early maps as it opens another crew slot for specialist vehicles.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 
=== Flight Performance ===
 
=== Flight Performance ===
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, manoeuvrability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
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<!-- ''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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On paper the IAR-81C looks to be a [[Bf 109 E-3|Bf 109E]] clone. Though looks can be deceiving. This vehicle feels far heavier than it really is. Cause for this is the early starting lock-up of the elevator at high speeds and the lack of leading-edge wing slats at low ones. Flaps use is essential, but slows down the plane very much in using so. Turn characteristics are average which can be said for most of its statistics. Although it lacks the horsepower to accelerate ones coming out of a manoeuvre. Despite the elevator lock-up above 400 kph, the IAR-81C is an excellent Boom & Zoom fighter. The sleek design, the terminal velocity of 680 km/h IAS and the late break-off speed for the flaps all greatly help. The latter especially is of use to tighten the recovery from dive attacks, ensuring that even at high dive speeds the flaps can be deployed.<br>
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 +
A bit cumbersome the IAR-81C takes about 20 seconds to take-off from a standstill, especially with a payload onboard. A hard Split-S without the combat flaps is a dangerous affair thanks to the elevator locking up and will take about 460 m to perform. The Immelmann should be reserved for a better accelerating fighter for this plane is not a fan of it. A high Yo-Yo is preferable. Climbing should be done at 15° and between 250 and 270 km/h (240 f/s), though a stable climb is possible at 150 km/h, too.
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 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 0 m - at sea level)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
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! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
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! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(meters)
 +
|-
 +
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 +
|-
 +
! Stock
 +
| ??? || ??? || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || ??.? || rowspan="2" | 350
 +
|-
 +
! Upgraded
 +
| 509 || 485 || 19.1 || 20.0 || 14.8 || 11.9
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Details ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="6" | Features
 +
|-
 +
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear !! Drogue chute
 +
|-
 +
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || ✓ || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | Limits
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
 +
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 +
|-
 +
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
 +
|-
 +
| {{Specs|destruction|constructions}} || {{Specs|destruction|chassis}} || 550 || ??? || ??? || ~11 || ~8
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 350 || < 300 || < 370 || > 341
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
 +
|-
 +
! Optimal altitude
 +
! 100% Engine power
 +
! WEP Engine power
 +
|-
 +
| 3,900 m || 1,000 hp || 1,090 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.''
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<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* 75 mm bulletproof glass windscreen
 +
* 12.7 mm steel headrest
 +
 
 +
If one were to hit the pilot from the front, the enemy would need to pass through the engine block, the oil filter and one of two big fuel tanks. Engaging bombers or head-on attacks are well-nigh saved bets for the pilot. Further the fuselage inline fuel tanks are consequently safe from pursuit and frontal fire. The rearward protection is not as stellar though. The decently thick steel plate does not protect the entire pilot, leaving the lower back open. Overall a sturdy little fighter for its rank.
  
 
== Armaments ==
 
== Armaments ==
 
=== Offensive armament ===
 
=== Offensive armament ===
The IAR-81C packs a considerable punch for its BR, including two MG151's and two 7.7mm machine guns for a total of 350 cannon rounds and 1000 machine gun rounds (needs verification). Naturally, the MG151s found on this aircraft gain access to the powerful Minengeschoß shells, making the vehicle a deadly force to be reckoned with for what it can face. The 7.7mm machine guns found on this vehicle are adequate at best, and provide best effect when used with tracer rounds to provide more effective aiming when using stealth belts for cannons.
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<!-- ''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|MG 151/20 (20 mm)|FN Browning (7.92 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
 +
 
 +
* 2 x 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons, wing-mounted (175 rpg = 350 total)
 +
* 2 x 7.92 mm FN Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (700 rpg = 1,400 total)
 +
 
 +
The IAR-81C packs a considerable punch for its battle rating, including two MG 151's and two 7.7 mm machine guns for a total of 3.11 kg/s. Naturally, the MG 151's found on this aircraft gain access to the powerful ''Minengeschoß'' shells, making the vehicle a deadly force to be reckoned with for what it can face. The 7.7 mm machine guns found on this vehicle are adequate at best and provide the best effect when used with tracer rounds to provide more effective aiming when using stealth belts for cannons.
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 +
A big downside is the wing-mounted position of all firearms. This location drastically lowers the firing density and brings with it the issue of gun convergence. In short, the convergence/crossing point is were the fire lines of each gun meet and close this imaginary triangle. For ground strafing the gun convergence should be set as high as possible, for the distance of engagement varies on the approaching run. For dogfights, a range from either 100 to 300 m is common to bring all guns in the crossing section to bear.
  
 
=== Suspended armament ===
 
=== Suspended armament ===
Where this vehicle really shines, however, is its access to a ground-pounding loadout of a 250kg bomb and 2x BR.21 rockets. Although created for anti-bomber use, the BR.21 rockets are capable of shredding tanks it faces at its BR or above, penetrating even a tank's side armor with a near miss in some scenarios. With powerful HE shells for its cannons to demolish open-topped vehicles, a 250kg bomb on a "catapult"-style mount like those found on the Ju87-series aircraft, and BR.21 rockets for engaging fast-moving tanks or more armored AA vehicles from a distance (namely the Crusader Mk1 AA or the AC Mk II AA), the IAR-81C provides the Italian tree a vehicle that poses a serious threat to all but the most armored vehicles or cautious anti-air.
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<!-- ''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|SC50JA (50 kg)|SC250JA (250 kg)|Wfr.Gr.21}}
  
=== Defensive armament ===
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
This vehicle has no defensive armament.
+
 
 +
* Without load
 +
* 2 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (100 kg total)
 +
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb (250 kg total)
 +
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb + 2 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (350 kg total)
 +
* 2 x Wfr.Gr.21 rockets
 +
* 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb + 2 x Wfr.Gr.21 rockets (250 kg total)
 +
 
 +
Where this vehicle really shines, however, is its access to a ground-pounding loadout of a 250 kg bomb and 2x ''"Werfergranate 21"'' rockets. Although created for anti-bomber use, the Wfr.Gr.21 rockets are capable of shredding tanks it faces at its battle rating or above, penetrating even a tank's side armour with a near-miss in some scenarios. With powerful HE shells for its cannons to demolish open-topped vehicles, a 250 kg bomb on a "trapeze"-style mount like those found on the [[Ju 87 (Family)|Ju 87-series]] aircraft, and Wfr.Gr.21 rockets for engaging fast-moving tanks or more armoured anti-aircraft vehicles from a distance (namely the [[Crusader AA Mk I]] or the [[AC Mk II AA]]), the IAR-81C provides the Italian tree with a vehicle that poses a serious threat to all but the most armoured vehicles or cautious anti-air.
  
 
== Usage in battles ==
 
== Usage in 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).''
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<!-- ''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 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).'' -->
 +
With the advantage of flexibility, a mode of attack should be chosen before spawning. Climbing at the start to fight for air dominance with allies, or going full ground support with the option to defend oneself upon being spotted. Perhaps even taking ordnance for a quick drop only to retreat behind allies to initiate a late climb to dogfight altitude. The options are all there, however in-game a fighter first and ground support second is more often than not welcomed by the team. In combined Air & Tank Battles the multi-role nature of the IAR-80C is a great fortune as one can swap between ground support and air supremacy at one's leisure.<br>
 +
 
 +
For dogfighting Boom & Zoom is the favourite combat style of the IAR-81C. While it is quite nimble in a turn, it lacks the engine performance and low stall speed for a continues turn fight. Horizontal and hard manoeuvres are more for emergencies.
 +
 
 +
=== Manual Engine Control ===
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="7" | MEC elements
 +
|-
 +
! rowspan="2" | Mixer
 +
! rowspan="2" | Pitch
 +
! colspan="3" | Radiator
 +
! rowspan="2" | Supercharger
 +
! rowspan="2" | Turbocharger
 +
|-
 +
! Oil
 +
! Water
 +
! Type
 +
|-
 +
| Controllable || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not controllable<br>1 gear || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
=== Modules ===
 +
{| class="wikitable"
 +
! colspan="1" | Tier
 +
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 +
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 +
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 +
|-
 +
| I
 +
| Fuselage repair
 +
| Radiator
 +
|
 +
| Offensive 7 mm
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
| II
 +
|
 +
| Compressor
 +
| Airframe
 +
| New 7 mm MGs
 +
| R6 modification
 +
|-
 +
| III
 +
| Wings repair
 +
| Engine
 +
|
 +
| Offensive 20 mm
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
| IV
 +
|
 +
| Engine injection
 +
| Cover
 +
| New 20 mm cannons
 +
|
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== Pros and cons ===
 
=== Pros and cons ===
<!--''Summarize and briefly evaluate the vehicle in terms of its characteristics and combat effectiveness. Mark its pros and cons in 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 - 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:'''
  
* Great all-around aircraft that can dive with Bf 109s of equal rank and can turn with most aircraft
+
* Great multi-role aircraft
 +
* Good payload options
 +
* Good cockpit visibility
 +
* Average in performance
 +
* Average in manoeuvrability
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
* It cannot compete with most turn fighters
+
* No breakout features as a fighter, fighter-interceptor, bomber-interceptor or fighter-bomber
* Lacks armour and survivability characteristics
+
* Cannot compete with most turn fighters
  
 
== 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 big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article.''-->
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<!-- ''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).'' -->
After fulfilling several government and licence contracts, the relatively young I.A.R. (Industria Aeronautică Română) company had enough resources and technical know-how to begin developing their own fighter aircraft. Taking inspiration from previous licenced projects, I.A.R. engineers initiated a private venture by beginning working on their own fighter aircraft in late 1937, which would later be known as the I.A.R. 80. As work was progressing slowly, the first prototype wasn’t completed until spring 1939. Initial testing produced positive results, proving that the I.A.R. 80 could be considered a modern fighter despite not matching the performance of contemporary Bf 109s and Spitfires. After addressing some minor issues and upgrading the prototype’s engine, the I.A.R. 80 was tested in a head-to-head competition with the German He 112. Impressed by the aircraft’s display, the Romanian government placed an order for 100 I.A.R. 80s to be produced, while only a limited number of He 112s were ordered for production. Despite starting production almost instantly after the order was placed, I.A.R. struggled to ramp up production as shortages on the Belgian-made FN Browning 7.92mm machine guns became an increasing issue in the wake of the German invasion of the Benelux states. By April 1941 however with Romania joining the Axis, the armament shortages were temporarily addressed. Taking advantage of the opportunity, I.A.R. upgraded their fighter to the I.A.R. 80-A, increasing the number of machine guns to the initially proposed six and installing a more powerful engine, thus solving many initial concerns with the aircraft.
 
  
Even prior to Romania’s entry into WW2 in 1941, the government was keen on modernizing their stock of strike aircraft and dive bombers. The latter role was to be filled with the Ju 87 Stuka. However, as Germany initially refused to permit a licence production, I.A.R. came up with the proposal to convert some I.A.R. 80 fighters into dive bombers, creating the I.A.R. 81. These machines differed only from fighter models in the installation of a bomb rack underneath the fuselage, capable of suspending a 225 kg bomb. The I.A.R. 81-C was the final modification of this series, featuring upgraded MG 151/20 20mm cannons compared to previous versions. Around 150 examples of this modification were produced out of the approximate total of around 350 I.A.R. 80/81. By the end of the war, most of the I.A.R. 81s were not used in the dive bomber role and were instead used side by side with the I.A.R. 80 as fighters, most notably taking part in the famous defense of Ploesti against U.S. bombing raids in 1944. I.A.R. 80s continued their service with the Romanian air force after the end of WW2 and even into the early 1950s, before being replaced by more advanced Soviet counterparts.
+
After fulfilling several governments and licence contracts, the relatively young I.A.R. (Industria Aeronautică Română) company had enough resources and technical know-how to begin developing their own fighter aircraft. Taking inspiration from previous licenced projects, I.A.R. engineers initiated a private venture by beginning work on their own fighter aircraft in late 1937, which would later be known as the I.A.R. 80. As work was progressing slowly, the first prototype wasn’t completed until spring 1939. Initial testing produced positive results, proving that the I.A.R. 80 could be considered a modern fighter despite not matching the performance of contemporary Bf 109s and Spitfires. After addressing some minor issues and upgrading the prototype’s engine, the I.A.R. 80 was tested in a head-to-head competition with the German He 112. Impressed by the aircraft’s display, the Romanian government placed an order for 100 I.A.R. 80s to be produced, while only a limited number of He 112s were ordered for production. Despite starting production almost instantly after the order was placed, I.A.R. struggled to ramp up production as shortages on the Belgian-made FN Browning 7.92mm machine guns became an increasing issue in the wake of the German invasion of the Benelux states. By April 1941 however, with Romania joining the Axis, the armament shortages were temporarily addressed. Taking advantage of the opportunity, I.A.R. upgraded their fighter to the I.A.R. 80-A, increasing the number of machine guns to the initially proposed six and installing a more powerful engine, thus solving many initial concerns with the aircraft.
  
''- From [https://warthunder.com/en/news/5525-development-i-a-r-81-c-supporting-the-axis-en Devblog]''
+
Even prior to Romania’s entry into WW2 in 1941, the government was keen on modernizing their stock of strike aircraft and dive bombers. The latter role was to be filled with the Ju 87 Stuka. However, as Germany initially refused to permit a licence production, I.A.R. came up with the proposal to convert some I.A.R. 80 fighters into dive bombers, creating the I.A.R. 81. These machines differed only from fighter models in the installation of a bomb rack underneath the fuselage, capable of suspending a 225 kg bomb. The I.A.R. 81-C was the final modification of this series, featuring upgraded MG 151/20 20mm cannons compared to previous versions. Around 150 examples of this modification were produced out of the approximate total of around 350 I.A.R. 80/81. By the end of the war, most of the I.A.R. 81s were not used in the dive bomber role and were instead used side by side with the I.A.R. 80 as fighters, most notably taking part in the famous defence of Ploesti against U.S. bombing raids in 1944. I.A.R. 80s continued their service with the Romanian air force after the end of WW2 and even into the early 1950s, before being replaced by more advanced Soviet counterparts.<ref>[https://warthunder.com/en/news/5525-development-i-a-r-81-c-supporting-the-axis-en], taken from the War Thunder Devblog on the IAR-81C. Copied 9 March 2019</ref>
  
 
== 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.-->
 +
;Skins
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/post/755557/en/ Skin: No. 429 "Lenuța" Summer 1944 - by ''TeodorSan'']
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/post/747083/en/ Skin: 2th Fighter Group, Squadron 46 - by ''WinGAflo'']
 +
<!--;Images
 +
<div><ul>
 +
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:|thumb|338x338px|none|]] </li>
 +
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:|thumb|338x338px|none|]] </li>
 +
<li style="display: inline-block;"> [[File:|thumb|338x338px|none|]] </li>
 +
</ul></div>-->
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|b6qqrQqgUZw|'''The Shooting Range #99''' - ''Pages of History'' section at 05:27 discusses the IAR-80 & 81.|CUGEtGFN4qc|'''"Why it's currently the best plane in Italian tech tree? IAR-81C"''' by ''HowToPlay1337''|Vb8MTRtg5Cw|'''"IAR-81C - Thumbs Up From Me"''' by ''Napalmratte''|NgeaBXpaYd8|'''"Forgotten Aircraft: The I.A.R 80 and I.A.R 81"''' by ''Wartime History''}}
  
 
== See also ==
 
== See also ==
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
+
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 +
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 +
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
  
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
+
* [[P-40E-1]]
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* [[Hurricane Mk IIB/Trop]]
 +
* [[Yak-9B]]
 +
* [[Re.2002_Early|Re.2002 Early]]
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
<!--''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
<!-- ''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
 
* ''topic on the official game forum;''
* ''encyclopedia page on aircraft;''
+
* ''encyclopedia page on the aircraft;''
* ''other literature.''-->
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/412550-iar-81-c-joining-the-italian-forces/ <nowiki>[</nowiki>WT Forum<nowiki>]</nowiki> IAR-81C discussion thread]
 +
* [https://forum.warthunder.com/index.php?/topic/414724-iar-81c/ <nowiki>[</nowiki>WT Forum<nowiki>]</nowiki> IAR-81C Flight Model thread]
 +
* [[wikipedia:IAR_80|<nowiki>[</nowiki>Wikipedia<nowiki>]</nowiki> IAR-80 and IAR-81]]
 +
* IAR-81C model created under the [[Affiliate Program Revenue Share]] by [https://live.warthunder.com/user/NovA29R/ NovA29R]
 +
* [https://warthunder.com/en/news/5525-development-i-a-r-81-c-supporting-the-axis-en <nowiki>[</nowiki>Devblog<nowiki>]</nowiki> I.A.R. 81-C: Supporting the Axis]
  
* [https://warthunder.com/en/news/5525-development-i-a-r-81-c-supporting-the-axis-en [Devblog<nowiki>]</nowiki> I.A.R. 81-C: Supporting the Axis]
+
==References==
 +
<references />
  
 +
{{AirManufacturer IAR}}
 
{{Italy fighters}}
 
{{Italy fighters}}
 
{{Italy premium aircraft}}
 
{{Italy premium aircraft}}

Revision as of 10:06, 28 March 2020

VTOL | Rank 5 USA
AV-8A Harrier Pack
IAR-81C
iar_81c.png
IAR-81C
AB RB SB
2.7 2.7 2.7
Purchase:1 000 Specs-Card-Eagle.png
Show in game

Description

GarageImage IAR-81C.jpg


The IAR-81C is a premium rank II Italian fighter with a battle rating of 2.7 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.79 "Project X". It is the first domestic-produced Romanian plane in the game, added into the Italian tree.

This variant is the up-gunned version, designated 81C and it excels at ground support. Boasting good offensive firepower and decent payload options for a converted fighter, the IAR-81 is capable of multiple roles. Harassing enemy ground forces only to follow up by securing the air space is among tactics typical for this type of fighter. While there are no obvious shortcomings to this fighter, neither does it excel in any category. The combat role flexibility is a force multiplier especially on early maps as it opens another crew slot for specialist vehicles.

General info

Flight Performance

On paper the IAR-81C looks to be a Bf 109E clone. Though looks can be deceiving. This vehicle feels far heavier than it really is. Cause for this is the early starting lock-up of the elevator at high speeds and the lack of leading-edge wing slats at low ones. Flaps use is essential, but slows down the plane very much in using so. Turn characteristics are average which can be said for most of its statistics. Although it lacks the horsepower to accelerate ones coming out of a manoeuvre. Despite the elevator lock-up above 400 kph, the IAR-81C is an excellent Boom & Zoom fighter. The sleek design, the terminal velocity of 680 km/h IAS and the late break-off speed for the flaps all greatly help. The latter especially is of use to tighten the recovery from dive attacks, ensuring that even at high dive speeds the flaps can be deployed.

A bit cumbersome the IAR-81C takes about 20 seconds to take-off from a standstill, especially with a payload onboard. A hard Split-S without the combat flaps is a dangerous affair thanks to the elevator locking up and will take about 460 m to perform. The Immelmann should be reserved for a better accelerating fighter for this plane is not a fan of it. A high Yo-Yo is preferable. Climbing should be done at 15° and between 250 and 270 km/h (240 f/s), though a stable climb is possible at 150 km/h, too.

Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 0 m - at sea level)
Max altitude
(meters)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(meters/second)
Take-off run
(meters)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock  ???  ??? 9500  ??.?  ??.?  ??.?  ??.? 350
Upgraded 509 485 19.1 20.0 14.8 11.9

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 + -
550  ???  ??? ~11 ~8
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 350 < 300 < 370 > 341
Compressor (RB/SB)
Setting 1
Optimal altitude 100% Engine power WEP Engine power
3,900 m 1,000 hp 1,090 hp

Survivability and armour

  • 75 mm bulletproof glass windscreen
  • 12.7 mm steel headrest

If one were to hit the pilot from the front, the enemy would need to pass through the engine block, the oil filter and one of two big fuel tanks. Engaging bombers or head-on attacks are well-nigh saved bets for the pilot. Further the fuselage inline fuel tanks are consequently safe from pursuit and frontal fire. The rearward protection is not as stellar though. The decently thick steel plate does not protect the entire pilot, leaving the lower back open. Overall a sturdy little fighter for its rank.

Armaments

Offensive armament

The IAR-81C is armed with:

  • 2 x 20 mm MG 151/20 cannons, wing-mounted (175 rpg = 350 total)
  • 2 x 7.92 mm FN Browning machine guns, wing-mounted (700 rpg = 1,400 total)

The IAR-81C packs a considerable punch for its battle rating, including two MG 151's and two 7.7 mm machine guns for a total of 3.11 kg/s. Naturally, the MG 151's found on this aircraft gain access to the powerful Minengeschoß shells, making the vehicle a deadly force to be reckoned with for what it can face. The 7.7 mm machine guns found on this vehicle are adequate at best and provide the best effect when used with tracer rounds to provide more effective aiming when using stealth belts for cannons.

A big downside is the wing-mounted position of all firearms. This location drastically lowers the firing density and brings with it the issue of gun convergence. In short, the convergence/crossing point is were the fire lines of each gun meet and close this imaginary triangle. For ground strafing the gun convergence should be set as high as possible, for the distance of engagement varies on the approaching run. For dogfights, a range from either 100 to 300 m is common to bring all guns in the crossing section to bear.

Suspended armament

The IAR-81C can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • Without load
  • 2 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (100 kg total)
  • 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb (250 kg total)
  • 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb + 2 x 50 kg SC50JA bombs (350 kg total)
  • 2 x Wfr.Gr.21 rockets
  • 1 x 250 kg SC250JA bomb + 2 x Wfr.Gr.21 rockets (250 kg total)

Where this vehicle really shines, however, is its access to a ground-pounding loadout of a 250 kg bomb and 2x "Werfergranate 21" rockets. Although created for anti-bomber use, the Wfr.Gr.21 rockets are capable of shredding tanks it faces at its battle rating or above, penetrating even a tank's side armour with a near-miss in some scenarios. With powerful HE shells for its cannons to demolish open-topped vehicles, a 250 kg bomb on a "trapeze"-style mount like those found on the Ju 87-series aircraft, and Wfr.Gr.21 rockets for engaging fast-moving tanks or more armoured anti-aircraft vehicles from a distance (namely the Crusader AA Mk I or the AC Mk II AA), the IAR-81C provides the Italian tree with a vehicle that poses a serious threat to all but the most armoured vehicles or cautious anti-air.

Usage in battles

With the advantage of flexibility, a mode of attack should be chosen before spawning. Climbing at the start to fight for air dominance with allies, or going full ground support with the option to defend oneself upon being spotted. Perhaps even taking ordnance for a quick drop only to retreat behind allies to initiate a late climb to dogfight altitude. The options are all there, however in-game a fighter first and ground support second is more often than not welcomed by the team. In combined Air & Tank Battles the multi-role nature of the IAR-80C is a great fortune as one can swap between ground support and air supremacy at one's leisure.

For dogfighting Boom & Zoom is the favourite combat style of the IAR-81C. While it is quite nimble in a turn, it lacks the engine performance and low stall speed for a continues turn fight. Horizontal and hard manoeuvres are more for emergencies.

Manual Engine Control

MEC elements
Mixer Pitch Radiator Supercharger Turbocharger
Oil Water Type
Controllable Controllable
Not auto controlled
Controllable
Not auto controlled
Controllable
Not auto controlled
Separate Not controllable
1 gear
Not controllable

Modules

Tier Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
I Fuselage repair Radiator Offensive 7 mm
II Compressor Airframe New 7 mm MGs R6 modification
III Wings repair Engine Offensive 20 mm
IV Engine injection Cover New 20 mm cannons

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Great multi-role aircraft
  • Good payload options
  • Good cockpit visibility
  • Average in performance
  • Average in manoeuvrability

Cons:

  • No breakout features as a fighter, fighter-interceptor, bomber-interceptor or fighter-bomber
  • Cannot compete with most turn fighters

History

After fulfilling several governments and licence contracts, the relatively young I.A.R. (Industria Aeronautică Română) company had enough resources and technical know-how to begin developing their own fighter aircraft. Taking inspiration from previous licenced projects, I.A.R. engineers initiated a private venture by beginning work on their own fighter aircraft in late 1937, which would later be known as the I.A.R. 80. As work was progressing slowly, the first prototype wasn’t completed until spring 1939. Initial testing produced positive results, proving that the I.A.R. 80 could be considered a modern fighter despite not matching the performance of contemporary Bf 109s and Spitfires. After addressing some minor issues and upgrading the prototype’s engine, the I.A.R. 80 was tested in a head-to-head competition with the German He 112. Impressed by the aircraft’s display, the Romanian government placed an order for 100 I.A.R. 80s to be produced, while only a limited number of He 112s were ordered for production. Despite starting production almost instantly after the order was placed, I.A.R. struggled to ramp up production as shortages on the Belgian-made FN Browning 7.92mm machine guns became an increasing issue in the wake of the German invasion of the Benelux states. By April 1941 however, with Romania joining the Axis, the armament shortages were temporarily addressed. Taking advantage of the opportunity, I.A.R. upgraded their fighter to the I.A.R. 80-A, increasing the number of machine guns to the initially proposed six and installing a more powerful engine, thus solving many initial concerns with the aircraft.

Even prior to Romania’s entry into WW2 in 1941, the government was keen on modernizing their stock of strike aircraft and dive bombers. The latter role was to be filled with the Ju 87 Stuka. However, as Germany initially refused to permit a licence production, I.A.R. came up with the proposal to convert some I.A.R. 80 fighters into dive bombers, creating the I.A.R. 81. These machines differed only from fighter models in the installation of a bomb rack underneath the fuselage, capable of suspending a 225 kg bomb. The I.A.R. 81-C was the final modification of this series, featuring upgraded MG 151/20 20mm cannons compared to previous versions. Around 150 examples of this modification were produced out of the approximate total of around 350 I.A.R. 80/81. By the end of the war, most of the I.A.R. 81s were not used in the dive bomber role and were instead used side by side with the I.A.R. 80 as fighters, most notably taking part in the famous defence of Ploesti against U.S. bombing raids in 1944. I.A.R. 80s continued their service with the Romanian air force after the end of WW2 and even into the early 1950s, before being replaced by more advanced Soviet counterparts.[1]

Media

Skins
Videos

See also

External links

References

  1. [1], taken from the War Thunder Devblog on the IAR-81C. Copied 9 March 2019


Romanian Aeronautic Industry (Industria Aeronautică Română)
Aircraft 
Fighters  IAR-81C
Helicopters 
Utility  IAR 316B*
  *Licensed version of Aérospatiale's SA 316B Alouette III helicopter.

Italy fighters
Fiat  CR.32 · CR.32 bis · CR.32 quater · CR.42 · Marcolin's C.R.42 CN
  G.50 serie 2 · G.50 AS serie 7
  G.55 sottoserie 0 · G.55 serie 1 · G.55S · G.56
Reggiane  Re.2000 G.A. · Re.2000 serie 1
  Re.2001 serie 1 · Re.2001 gruppo 22 · Re.2001 CB · Re.2001 CN
  Re.2002 Early
  Re.2005 serie 0
Macchi  C. 200 serie 3 · C. 200 serie 7
  C. 202 · C. 202D · C. 202EC
  C. 205 serie 1 · C. 205 serie 3 · C. 205N2
IMAM  Ro.44
  Foreign:
Germany  ▄Bf 109 G-14/AS
USA  ▄P-47D-30
Britain  ▄Spitfire Mk Vb/trop
Hungary  ◐Bf 109 F-4 · ◐Bf 109 G-2 · ◔Yak-9P
Romania  He 112 B-1/U2 · IAR-81C

Italy premium aircraft
Fighters  CR.32 bis · Marcolin's C.R.42 CN · He 112 B-1/U2 · Re.2001 gruppo 22
  C. 202D · IAR-81C · ▄Spitfire Mk Vb/trop · ◐Bf 109 F-4 · ◐Bf 109 G-2 · G.55S
Jet fighters  Ariete · G.91 R/4 · ▄F-104S TAF
Strike aircraft  ◐Bf 110 G-4 · Hs 129 B-2 (Romania) · Ro.57 Quadriarma