Difference between revisions of "Ki-49-I"

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{{Specs-Card|code=ki-49_1}}
 
 
{{About
 
{{About
 
| about = Japanese bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 
| about = Japanese bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
| usage = other uses
+
| usage = other versions
 
| link = Ki-49 (Family)
 
| link = Ki-49 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=ki-49_1
 +
|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|ArtImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg}}
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
== 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.'' -->
 +
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. It is the first model of the Ki-49 family in War Thunder. It is notably fast in level flight, features excellent protection from the rear, and is fairly manoeuvrable when making use of its very large elevators. It's the first Japanese bomber to get access to any significant armour protection, and there's plenty of it to be found. Pilots will find the Ki-49 versatile in air battles because of its ability to perform low-altitude bombing as well as bomb bases. Your speed makes up for your payload since you can always make many trips to rearm.
  
[[File:GarageImage_{{PAGENAME}}.jpg|420px|thumb|left]]
 
{{break}}
 
The '''{{Specs|name}}''' is a rank {{Specs|rank}} Japanese medium bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.29.
 
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
 +
=== 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.'' -->
  
=== Flight Performance ===
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
<!--''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''-->
+
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
! colspan="8" | Characteristics
 
|-
 
! colspan="8" | ''Stock''
 
|-
 
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,000 m)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,000 m)
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 
! 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>(metres/second)
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run<br>(meters)
+
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 
|-
 
|-
! AB
+
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
 
|-
 
|-
| 466 || 435 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 30.2 || 30.8 || 9.1 || 10.4 || 677
+
! Stock
 +
| 449 || 435 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 29.9 || 30.8 || 10.4 || 10.4 || rowspan="2" | 677
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="8" | ''Upgraded''
+
! Upgraded
|-
+
| 486 || 466 || 27.8 || 29.0 || 17.1 || 12.5
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 5,000 m)
 
! rowspan="2" |Max altitude (meters)
 
! colspan="2" | Turn time (seconds)
 
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(meters/second)
 
! rowspan="2" |Take-off run (meters)
 
|-
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
! AB
 
! RB
 
|-
 
| 486 || 466 || {{Specs|ceiling}} || 27.8 || 29.0 || 17.1 || 12.5 || 677
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
====Details====
+
==== Details ====
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
[[File:Ki-49TopView.png|thumb|right|300px|A Training Squadron Ki-49-I flies over Japanese-captured China]]
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
 
! 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    <!-- ✓ -->
 
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X || X    <!-- ✓ -->
Line 71: Line 48:
 
|}
 
|}
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="5" | Limits
+
! colspan="7" | Limits
 
|-
 
|-
! rowspan="2" | Wing-break speed<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Wings (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Gear limit<br>(km/h)
+
! rowspan="2" | Gear (km/h)
! rowspan="2" | Combat flap<br> (km/h)
+
! colspan="3" | Flaps (km/h)
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
! colspan="2" | Max Static G
 
|-
 
|-
! +
+
! Combat !! Take-off !! Landing !! + !! -
! -
 
|-
 
| {{Specs|разрушение|конструкции}} || {{Specs|разрушение|шасси}} || 450 || ~2 || ~2
 
|-
 
|}
 
 
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities
+
| 580 <!-- {{Specs|destruction|body}} --> || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 412 || 369 || 240 || ~5 || ~3
|-
 
! Ailerons<br>(km/h)
 
! Rudder<br>(km/h)
 
! Elevators<br>(km/h)
 
! Radiator<br>(km/h)
 
|-
 
| < 360 || < 360 || < 403 || > 180
 
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
 
+
[[File:Ki-49Landing.png|thumb|right|300px|Fowler flaps on the Ki-49 provide a tremendous amount of lift allowing for slow, gentle landings]]
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="3" | Compressor (RB/SB)
+
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 
|-
 
|-
! colspan="3" | Setting 1
+
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 
|-
 
|-
! Optimal altitude
+
| < 260 || < 360 || < 350 || > 324
! 100% Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
 
|-
 
|-
| 4,100 m || 2,490 hp || 2,.669 hp
 
|-
 
<!--! colspan="3" | Setting 2
 
|-
 
! Optimal altitude
 
! 100% Engine power
 
! WEP Engine power
 
|-
 
| ?,??? m || ?,??? hp || ?,??? 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.''-->
+
{{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.'' -->
* 68 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot
+
[[File:Ki-49 Armor.png|thumb|right|300px|The armour placement found on the Ki-49]]
 +
*68 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot
 
* 12.5 mm Steel plate in front of the pilot
 
* 12.5 mm Steel plate in front of the pilot
 
* 16.5 mm Steel plate behind the pilots
 
* 16.5 mm Steel plate behind the pilots
Line 140: Line 84:
 
* 12.5 mm Steel plates in front of the tail gunner
 
* 12.5 mm Steel plates in front of the tail gunner
  
== Armaments ==
+
The armour gives the very cramped gunners some extra protection from all types of aircraft ammunition. The poor placement of the gunners on a traditional Japanese plane with no armour, like the [[G4M1]], means that your gunners can get knocked out all at once with a good burst. The Ki-49-I is the first aircraft to address the issue and gunner knock-outs are less common than they used to be with older planes.
=== 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.''
+
=== Modifications and economy ===
{{main|MAC 1934 (7.5 mm)}}
+
{{Specs-Economy}}
 +
[[File:Ki-49Level.png|thumb|right|300px|The Ki-49-I in flight]]
 +
Being a bomber, speed is not necessarily an important attribute, however, payload and armament are. Upgrading the bombs allows for more target flexibility and damage potential while turret upgrades will help survivability. the turret belts and the ''New Turret'' upgrades are useful. The ''New Turrets'' upgrade will allow you to fire the turrets for longer periods of time and having access to multiple ammunition belts is also helpful. The engine upgrades are also useful in that they will help you reach your target faster and will control engine temperature. Having all of the weapons upgrades will help drastically in unlocking the other modules on this aircraft.
  
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
+
The best way of grinding with this aircraft is to play cautiously and to use communication. As with any bomber, if you're caught alone or off guard you are an easy target for enemy fighters and attackers. Although not a sure tactic, having a fighter escort will boost research point gains drastically. This goes for both arcade and realistic battles. Generally, try to destroy as many targets as possible without wasting bombs. If done in a speedy fashion it is possible to drop multiple payloads in realistic battles. The same goes for simulator battles. In arcade battles, having a high reload speed and a fighter escort will allow for constant bombardment. If done correctly, flying the {{PAGENAME}} in all modes will net you large amounts of research points.
  
* 4 x 7.5 mm [[MAC 1934 (7.5 mm)|MAC 1934]] machine guns (300 rpg = 1,200 total)
+
== Armaments ==
-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
 
=== 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.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;''Main article:&nbsp;'''[[:Category:Suspended armaments|Bombs]]'''''
+
<!-- ''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|Army Type 94 GPHE (50 kg)|Army Type 92 GPHE (250 kg)|Army Type 92 GPHE (500 kg)}}
 +
[[File:Ki-49AngledDrop.png|thumb|right|300px|The Ki-49-I releases four 250 kg bombs from its bomb bay]]
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
  
Line 158: Line 105:
 
* 4 x 250 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bombs (1,000 kg total)
 
* 4 x 250 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bombs (1,000 kg total)
 
* 1 x 500 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bomb (500 kg total)
 
* 1 x 500 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bomb (500 kg total)
 +
 +
The Ki-49-I shares the same somewhat lacking bombload options as all other [[Ki-49 (Family)|Ki-49s]], although being at a lower BR than the rest of them makes it slightly more acceptable. It is able to carry a maximum bomb load of 1,000 kg (in the form of 4 x 250 kg bombs). The best loadout is generally the 4 x 250 kg bombs as it is by far the largest total load; the 12 x 50 kg bombs are not much use on account of their small size and thus limited damage. Although a reduction in total bomb load, the single 500 kg bomb can also be useful against ground targets, due to its larger blast radius.
  
 
=== Defensive armament ===
 
=== Defensive armament ===
<!--''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.''-->
+
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
{{main|Ho-1 army (20 mm)|Type 89 army (7.7 mm)}}
+
<!-- ''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.'' -->
 +
{{main|Ho-1 (20 mm)|Type 89 (7.7 mm)}}
 +
[[File:Ki-49 20mm.png|thumb|right|300px|Ki-49-I Fires the dorsal 20 mm Ho-1 cannon. It packs a serious punch in exchange for a slow fire rate.]]
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
  
 
* 1 x 20 mm Ho-1 cannon, dorsal turret (150 rpg)
 
* 1 x 20 mm Ho-1 cannon, dorsal turret (150 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, nose turret (483 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, nose turret (483 rpg)
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, 2 x beam turret (483 rpg = 966 total)
+
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (483 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, ventral turret (483 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, ventral turret (483 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, tail turret (828 rpg)
 
* 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, tail turret (828 rpg)
 +
[[File:Ki-49Under.png|thumb|right|300px|A significant part of the plane's underbelly suffers from lack of turret cover. There is no way to defend from enemies that are directly below the aircraft.]]
 +
The defensive armament of the Ki-49-I is similar to the other members of the [[Ki-49 (Family)|Ki-49 family]]. While the 20 mm cannon is certainly nice to have, its effectiveness is somewhat limited by being blocked from shooting directly rearwards by the aircraft's tail; it also cannot shoot downwards thanks to its location on the top of the aircraft. The rest of the defensive armament is generally weak consisting of single 7.7 mm machine guns.
  
== Usage in the battles ==
+
'''Using the Ho-5:''' Being a better option than the 20 mm Type 99 cannon found on the G4M1 but found in a slightly worse position, the gun can take some getting used to. It has a much higher velocity and a much higher damage output. The two drawbacks are its incredibly slow rate of fire (400 RPM) and its unfavorable position. You'll need to actively bait the fighter onto your tail position in order to effectively defend yourself from the fighter threat.
<!--''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).''-->
+
{{Clear}}
The Ki-49's role is a low-altitude medium bomber capable of destroying ground targets such as pillboxes and tanks. Although hindered by a low total bomb capacity, this aircraft is renowned for its impressive manoeuvrability. This being said, it is very easy for the Ki-49 to hover above an area and drop all of its payloads rather quickly. Heavy bombers such as the G8N1 Renzan have a harder time due to their sheer size and slow rate of turn. Make sure to select the 4 x 250 kg bomb load outs if attacking targets like tanks, pillboxes, or smaller ships.
 
  
If attacked by fighters, it is important to remember and recognize the Ki-49's turning capabilities. It is actually possible to win lateral turn fights against fighters with this aircraft. Try not to act like a "sitting duck" because the Ki-49 features little armour protection and has limited defensive capabilities as far as weapons go. With only 7.7 mm machine guns, this aircraft is not suited for air to air combat against fighters. The best belt to use is the armoured targets belt. If you can't shake someone off your tail aim for the pilot or the engine - your only hope of destroying the enemy plane. Pulling hard manoeuvres will throw the enemy off and allow you to set up for more defensive fire.  
+
== 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).'' -->
 +
[[File:Ki-49VentralTurret.png|thumb|right|300px|The Ki-49's ventral turret fires at an approaching fighter. While type 89 machine guns aren't much of a threat to fighters, it deter some opponents]]
 +
The Ki-49's role is a low-altitude medium bomber capable of destroying ground targets such as pillboxes and tanks. Although hindered by a low total bomb capacity, this aircraft is renowned for its impressive manoeuvrability. This being said, it is very easy for the Ki-49 to hover above an area and drop all of its payloads rather quickly. Heavy bombers such as the G8N1 Renzan have a harder time due to their sheer size and slow rate of turn. Make sure to select the 4 x 250 kg bomb load outs if attacking targets like tanks, pillboxes, or smaller ships.
  
This aircraft has the ability to hold up to 1,000 kg of bombs in several different variations. 12 x 50 kg  bombs, 4 x 250 kg bombs and 1 x 500 kg bomb. Use the 12 x 50 kg bombs to attack light tanks and light pillboxes. They are not viable against bigger targets since direct hits are needed to destroy. This loadout is particularly useful on maps like Zhengzhou where there is an abundance on non-moving targets (light pillboxes). Use the 4 x 250 kg bombs to destroy heavier targets such as medium tanks, pillboxes, destroyers, and cargo ships. They are also the best Loadout against mini-bases. Use the 500 kg bomb to destroy targets like carriers.
+
If attacked by fighters, it is important to remember and recognize the Ki-49's turning capabilities. Try not to act like a "sitting duck" because the Ki-49 features little armour protection and has limited defensive capabilities as far as weapons go. With only 7.7 mm machine guns, this aircraft is not suited for air to air combat against fighters. The best belt to use is the Armoured targets belt. If you can't shake someone off your tail aim for the pilot or the engine - your only hope of destroying the enemy plane. Get comfortable with setting up a position and exposing your enemy to the Ho-1 cannon's line of fire. Dive and make sure your enemy is forced to attack from above and behind, at a slight angle, to ensure that your cannon shots will connect. Those are the shots that count.
 +
[[File:Ki-49Dropping.png|rhumb|right|300px|A formation of Ki-49-Is drops 250 kg bombs over soft targets]]
 +
This aircraft has the ability to hold up to 1,000 kg of bombs in several different variations. 12 x 50 kg  bombs, 4 x 250 kg bombs and 1 x 500 kg bomb. Use the 12 x 50 kg bombs to attack AA emplacements, howitzers, and artillery positions. They are not viable against bigger targets since direct hits are needed to destroy them. Use the 4 x 250 kg bombs to destroy heavier targets such as medium tanks, pillboxes, destroyers, and cargo ships. The 250 kg bombs are also the best loadout against bases. The 500 kg bombs only real use is in ground RB, where it is advantageous to have a large blast radius.
  
In arcade battles, this aircraft is particularly proficient at bombing bases, especially with a maxed reload crew skill. Since the Ki-49 can virtually turn on a dime, instead of having to line up longer bombing runs like heavy bombers this aircraft can "hover" over the base or airfield and attempt dive attacks. It's also possible to use this same tactic against pillboxes or tanks. With fighter cover, a good reload time skill and good aim it's possible to destroy dozens of ground units.  
+
In Arcade battles, this aircraft is particularly proficient at bombing bases, especially with a maxed reload crew skill. Since the Ki-49 can virtually turn on a dime, instead of having to line up longer bombing runs like heavy bombers this aircraft can "hover" over the base or airfield and attempt dive attacks. It's also possible to use this same tactic against pillboxes or tanks. With fighter cover, a good reload time skill and good aim it's possible to destroy dozens of ground units.
  
Although unconventional, this aircraft is a fantastic weapon if you want to bait the enemy. Ideally, you would want to attract a higher flying enemy down to you and to get into a turn fight. This way, depending on the enemy aircraft you can out maneuver and distract him while teammates fly down to finish him off.
+
Although unconventional, this aircraft is a fantastic weapon if you want to bait the enemy. Ideally, you would want to attract a higher flying enemy down to you and to get into a turnfight. This way, depending on the enemy aircraft you can outmanoeuvre and distract him while teammates fly down to finish him off.
===Manual Engine Control===
+
 
 +
In realistic battles, the top speed of the poor bomber is low, and the most dangerous part is that compression will always set in at redline speeds. This makes it almost impossible to pull out of a high speed dive without ripping your wings. There is however, a very simple solution to the problem. The bomb bay doors create an immense amount of drag when opened, and it effectively acts as a makeshift airbrake that can save the plane from compressing into the ground or ripping its wings.
 +
 
 +
=== 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" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable || rowspan="2" | Separate || rowspan="2" | Not ontrollable || rowspan="2" | Not controllable
+
| Controllable || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Separate || Not controllable<br>1 gear || Not controllable
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
===Modules===
+
The standard setup for manual engine control follows the standard Japanese procedure of keeping the propeller pitch in the mid-90s and the radiators open under 50%. If you want to be super picky about mixture settings, the generic formula is as follows: The mixture should be set to around 100% at sea level, and every 1 km higher you go, subtract 10% from the initial 100% mixture until you reach 4 km.
{| class="wikitable"
 
! colspan="1" | Tier
 
! colspan="2" | Flight performance
 
! colspan="1" | Survivability
 
! colspan="2" | Weaponry
 
|-
 
| I
 
| Fuselage Repair
 
| Radiator
 
|
 
| 12 in (mod30)
 
|
 
|-
 
| II
 
|
 
| Compressor
 
| Airframe
 
| 14 in (mod35)
 
|
 
|-
 
| III
 
| Wings Repair
 
| Engine
 
|
 
| Turret 7 mm
 
| Turret 20 mm
 
|-
 
| IV
 
|
 
| Engine Injection
 
| Cover
 
| New 7 mm MGs
 
| New 20 mm Cannons
 
|-
 
|}
 
Being a bomber, speed is not necessarily an important attribute, however, payload and armament are. Upgrading the bombs allows for more target flexibility and damage potential while turret upgrades will help survivability. the turret belts and the ''New Turret'' upgrades are useful. The ''New Turrets'' upgrade will allow you to fire the turrets for longer periods of time and having access to multiple ammunition belts is also helpful. The engine upgrades are also useful in that they will help you reach your target faster and will control engine temperature. Having all of the weapons upgrades will help drastically in unlocking the other modules on this aircraft.
 
 
 
The best way of grinding with this aircraft is to play cautiously and to use communication. As with any bomber, if you're caught alone or off guard you are an easy target for enemy fighters and attackers. Although not a sure tactic, having a fighter escort will boost research point gains drastically. This goes for both arcade and realistic battles. Generally, try to destroy as many targets as possible without wasting bombs. If done in a speedy fashion it is possible to drop multiple payloads in realistic battles. The same goes for simulator battles. In arcade battles, having a high reload speed and a fighter escort will allow for constant bombardment. If done correctly, flying the {{PAGENAME}} in all modes will net you large amounts of research points.
 
  
 
=== 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. 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".'' -->
 +
[[File:Ki-49Explode.png|thumb|right|300px|Ki-49-I scores a direct hit]]
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
* Variety of payload options
 
 
* Multiple gunners for protection in almost all directions
 
* Multiple gunners for protection in almost all directions
* Armor protection around pilots and gunners
+
* Armour protection around pilots and gunners
* Highly manoeuvrable and decent climb rate for a medium bomber
+
* Manoeuvrable and decent climb rate for a medium bomber
 
* Self-sealing fuel tanks
 
* Self-sealing fuel tanks
* Very good in taking out individual ground targets
+
* Can perform low-altitude bombing thanks to a responsive elevator
 
* Internal payload creates no drag
 
* Internal payload creates no drag
* Has a tendency of being ignored due to low payload capacity
+
* Much more survivable than earlier Japanese bombers
* Less prone to damage unlike the G4M
+
* Two pilots, increasing survivability
* Two pilots
+
[[File:Ki-49Refuel.png|thumb|right|300px|A Ki-49-I refueling]]
 
 
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
* Very poor choice for bombing bases especially in arcade battles
+
* Bombload suffers both in max capacity and explosive filler
 +
* Not much CAS potential
 +
* Lacks the ability to carry torpedoes unlike other Japanese bombers
 
* The wing is an entire fuel tank, therefore any hits to the wing can cause fuel tank fires
 
* The wing is an entire fuel tank, therefore any hits to the wing can cause fuel tank fires
* Maximum payload is only 1,000 kg
+
* Early versions of the Ki-49 only get 7.7 mm defensive guns, which have terrible damage output
* Defensive armament is relatively poor
+
* Very poor roll rate
* Unlike the G4M, 20 mm is mounted upwards, therefore it cannot fire at targets at the level directly behind the plane
+
* Easily falls prey to enemy interceptors
* Is outclassed by bombers from other nations within it's BR in nearly every aspect except manoeuvrability
+
* Compresses severely in high speed dives
 +
* Unlike the G4M1, 20 mm is mounted upwards, therefore it cannot fire at targets at the level directly behind the plane
 
* Weak engine horsepower
 
* Weak engine horsepower
  
 
== 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 "/ historical reference" (example: https://wiki.warthunder.com/Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''-->
+
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the 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).'' -->
 +
[[File:Ki-49OverIndo.png|thumb|right|300px|A Ki-49 sporting camouflage of the 61st Sentai of the Indonesian combat zone]]
 
The Ki-49 first saw service in China. After the outbreak of the Pacific War, it flew in New Guinea Australia. The Ki-49 was also used in the defence of the Philippines.
 
The Ki-49 first saw service in China. After the outbreak of the Pacific War, it flew in New Guinea Australia. The Ki-49 was also used in the defence of the Philippines.
 
The first unit to receive Ki-49 Donryu was the 61st Sentai in China.
 
The first unit to receive Ki-49 Donryu was the 61st Sentai in China.
An unknown amount of Ki-49s were involved in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.  
+
An unknown amount of Ki-49s were involved in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.
  
<br> - ''95th Sentai, Papua New Guinea 1943''
+
* ''95th Sentai, Papua New Guinea 1943''
<br> - ''61st Sentai, French Indochina 1944 ''
+
* ''61st Sentai, French Indochina 1944 ''
 +
* ''7th Sentai, 2nd Chutai 1944-45''
 +
* ''24th Sentai, 2nd Chutai  Philippines 1944-45''
 +
* ''62st Sentai 3rd Chutai Burma 1944''
  
<br> - ''7th Sentai, 2nd Chutai 1944-45''
+
{{break}}
<br> - ''24th Sentai, 2nd Chutai  Philippines 1944-45''
+
{{Navigation-Start|{{Annotation|Archive of the in-game description|An archive of the historical description of the vehicle that was presented in-game prior to Update 1.55 'Royal Armour'}}}}
 
+
{{Navigation-First-Simple-Line}}
<br> - ''62st Sentai 3rd Chutai Burma 1944''
+
Nakajima Ki-49-I Donryu Army Bomber, type 100 model 1 (code name "Helen")
 
 
=== Ingame Description ===
 
Nakajima Ki-49-I Donryu Army Bomber, type 100 model 1 (code name ""Helen"")
 
  
 
Twin-engine monoplane medium bomber with retractable landing gear and tail wheel. The development of a new medium bomber (heavy bomber, by Japanese standards) for the Japanese Army Air Force began in the spring of 1938. The new airplane was to replace the Mitsubishi Ki-21 bomber.
 
Twin-engine monoplane medium bomber with retractable landing gear and tail wheel. The development of a new medium bomber (heavy bomber, by Japanese standards) for the Japanese Army Air Force began in the spring of 1938. The new airplane was to replace the Mitsubishi Ki-21 bomber.
  
Based on Japan's experience in its war with China, special attention was given to providing the bomber with high speed capabilities and strong defensive weaponry so that it could operate without fighter cover. The crew needed protective armor, and self-sealing fuel tanks were essential.
+
Based on Japan's experience in its war with China, special attention was given to providing the bomber with high speed capabilities and strong defensive weaponry so that it could operate without fighter cover. The crew needed protective armour, and self-sealing fuel tanks were essential.
  
The first prototype of the Ki-49 (#4901) made its first flight in August of 1939. Production of the aircraft began in August 1940, and the plane was designated as the Nakajima Ki-49-i Donryu (""Storm Dragon""), type 100 model 1.
+
The first prototype of the Ki-49 (#4901) made its first flight in August of 1939. Production of the aircraft began in August 1940, and the plane was designated as the Nakajima Ki-49-i Donryu ("Storm Dragon"), type 100 model 1.
  
The Ki-49-I was equipped with two air-cooled 14-cylinder radial Hakadzima Ha-41 engines rated at 1250 hp each. The plane's defensive armament included 1 Ho-1 Type 97 20mm cannon in the upper fuselage and five 7.7mm Type 89 machine guns (which were significantly modernized versions of the Vickers), located in the nose, sides, and underneath the aircraft. In addition, one gun was located in a tail turret, the first time such a turret was employed by an aircraft of the Japanese army. The bomb bay, which occupied almost the entirety of the aircraft's middle section, could carry bombs ranging from 100 to 250 kilograms, in various combinations. A normal load was 750 kilograms, an overweight load, up to 1000.
+
The Ki-49-i was equipped with two air-cooled 14-cylinder radial Hakadzima Ha-41 engines rated at 1,250 hp each. The plane's defensive armament included 1 Ho-1 Type 97 20 mm cannon in the upper fuselage and five 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns (which were significantly modernized versions of the Vickers), located in the nose, sides, and underneath the aircraft. In addition, one gun was located in a tail turret, the first time such a turret was employed by an aircraft of the Japanese army. The bomb bay, which occupied almost the entirety of the aircraft's middle section, could carry bombs ranging from 100 to 250 kilograms, in various combinations. A normal load was 750 kilograms, an overweight load, up to 1,000.
  
 
The new planes began to be delivered to the front in August of 1941 and were widely used over New Britain and New Guinea as well as in raids on the Australian port of Darwin.
 
The new planes began to be delivered to the front in August of 1941 and were widely used over New Britain and New Guinea as well as in raids on the Australian port of Darwin.
  
It soon became evident that the Ha-41 engine's power was insufficient, and the controllability of the aircraft suffered as a result. The bomber's speed was not high enough to outrun the newer fighter planes. However, pilots approved of the plane's armor, the power of its defensive weaponry, and the reduction of that weaponry's ""blind spots.""
+
It soon became evident that the Ha-41 engine's power was insufficient, and the controllability of the aircraft suffered as a result. The bomber's speed was not high enough to outrun the newer fighter planes. However, pilots approved of the plane's armour, the power of its defensive weaponry, and the reduction of that weaponry's blind spots.
 +
 
 +
In all, 128 Ki-49-i aircraft were constructed.
 +
{{Navigation-End}}
  
In all, 128 Ki-49-I aircraft were constructed.
 
 
== 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
  
== Read also ==
+
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicle=ki-49_1 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
<!--''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.''-->
 
  
* http://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=559
+
;Related development
* http://www.pilotfriend.com/photo_albums/timeline/ww2/Nakajima%20Ki%2049%20Helen.htm
 
* http://wp.scn.ru/en/ww2/b/1033/65
 
  
== Sources ==
+
* [[Ki-49 (Family)]]
''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;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
* ''other literature.''
+
 
 +
* [http://www.militaryfactory.com/aircraft/detail.asp?aircraft_id=559 <nowiki>[MilitaryFactory]</nowiki> Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu (Helen)]
 +
* [http://www.pilotfriend.com/photo_albums/timeline/ww2/Nakajima%20Ki%2049%20Helen.htm <nowiki>[pilotfriend]</nowiki> Nakajima Ki 49 Helen]
 +
* [http://wp.scn.ru/en/ww2/b/1033/65 <nowiki>[wings palette]</nowiki> Nakajima Ki-49 Donryu/Helen]
  
 +
{{AirManufacturer Nakajima}}
 
{{Japan bombers}}
 
{{Japan bombers}}

Latest revision as of 12:34, 19 January 2023

RANK 6 BRITAIN
Rooikat 105 PACK
This page is about the Japanese bomber Ki-49-I. For other versions, see Ki-49 (Family).
Ki-49-I
ki-49_1.png
GarageImage Ki-49-I.jpg
ArtImage Ki-49-I.jpg
Ki-49-I
Research:11 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:22 000 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game

Description

The Ki-49-I Donryu is a rank II Japanese bomber with a battle rating of 3.3 (AB), 3.0 (RB), and 3.7 (SB). It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. It is the first model of the Ki-49 family in War Thunder. It is notably fast in level flight, features excellent protection from the rear, and is fairly manoeuvrable when making use of its very large elevators. It's the first Japanese bomber to get access to any significant armour protection, and there's plenty of it to be found. Pilots will find the Ki-49 versatile in air battles because of its ability to perform low-altitude bombing as well as bomb bases. Your speed makes up for your payload since you can always make many trips to rearm.

General info

Flight performance

Max speed
at 5 000 m466 km/h
Turn time29 s
Max altitude9 000 m
Engine2 х Nakajima Ha-41
TypeRadial
Cooling systemAir
Take-off weight11 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 5,000 m)
Max altitude
(metres)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(metres/second)
Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 449 435 9000 29.9 30.8 10.4 10.4 677
Upgraded 486 466 27.8 29.0 17.1 12.5

Details

A Training Squadron Ki-49-I flies over Japanese-captured China
Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
580 260 412 369 240 ~5 ~3
Fowler flaps on the Ki-49 provide a tremendous amount of lift allowing for slow, gentle landings
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 260 < 360 < 350 > 324

Survivability and armour

Crew8 people
Speed of destruction
Structural0 km/h
Gear260 km/h
The armour placement found on the Ki-49
  • 68 mm Bulletproof glass in front of the pilot
  • 12.5 mm Steel plate in front of the pilot
  • 16.5 mm Steel plate behind the pilots
  • 12.5 mm Steel plate behind the dorsal gunner
  • 12.5 mm Steel plates surrounding the dorsal gunner
  • 12.5 mm Steel plates in front of the tail gunner

The armour gives the very cramped gunners some extra protection from all types of aircraft ammunition. The poor placement of the gunners on a traditional Japanese plane with no armour, like the G4M1, means that your gunners can get knocked out all at once with a good burst. The Ki-49-I is the first aircraft to address the issue and gunner knock-outs are less common than they used to be with older planes.

Modifications and economy

Repair costBasic → Reference
AB823 → 1 041 Sl icon.png
RB1 418 → 1 795 Sl icon.png
SB2 610 → 3 304 Sl icon.png
Total cost of modifications10 370 Rp icon.png
13 570 Sl icon.png
Talisman cost750 Ge icon.png
Crew training6 300 Sl icon.png
Experts22 000 Sl icon.png
Aces250 Ge icon.png
Research Aces220 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
50 / 120 / 180 % Sl icon.png
124 / 124 / 124 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
910 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
910 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Research:
650 Rp icon.png
Cost:
860 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Research:
650 Rp icon.png
Cost:
860 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mods metanol.png
Engine injection
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
12 in (mod30)
Research:
690 Rp icon.png
Cost:
910 Sl icon.png
110 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
14 in (mod35)
Research:
780 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 000 Sl icon.png
125 Ge icon.png
Mods ammo.png
type97_turret_belt_pack
Research:
650 Rp icon.png
Cost:
860 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
ho1_turret_belt_pack
Research:
650 Rp icon.png
Cost:
860 Sl icon.png
105 Ge icon.png
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods turret gun.png
type89_turret_new_gun
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
Mods turret gun.png
20mmtype97_turret_new_gun
Research:
840 Rp icon.png
Cost:
1 100 Sl icon.png
135 Ge icon.png
The Ki-49-I in flight

Being a bomber, speed is not necessarily an important attribute, however, payload and armament are. Upgrading the bombs allows for more target flexibility and damage potential while turret upgrades will help survivability. the turret belts and the New Turret upgrades are useful. The New Turrets upgrade will allow you to fire the turrets for longer periods of time and having access to multiple ammunition belts is also helpful. The engine upgrades are also useful in that they will help you reach your target faster and will control engine temperature. Having all of the weapons upgrades will help drastically in unlocking the other modules on this aircraft.

The best way of grinding with this aircraft is to play cautiously and to use communication. As with any bomber, if you're caught alone or off guard you are an easy target for enemy fighters and attackers. Although not a sure tactic, having a fighter escort will boost research point gains drastically. This goes for both arcade and realistic battles. Generally, try to destroy as many targets as possible without wasting bombs. If done in a speedy fashion it is possible to drop multiple payloads in realistic battles. The same goes for simulator battles. In arcade battles, having a high reload speed and a fighter escort will allow for constant bombardment. If done correctly, flying the Ki-49-I in all modes will net you large amounts of research points.

Armaments

Suspended armament

List of setups (3)
Setup 112 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bomb
Setup 24 x 250 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bomb
Setup 31 x 500 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bomb
The Ki-49-I releases four 250 kg bombs from its bomb bay

The Ki-49-I can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 12 x 50 kg Army Type 94 GPHE bombs (600 kg total)
  • 4 x 250 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 1 x 500 kg Army Type 92 GPHE bomb (500 kg total)

The Ki-49-I shares the same somewhat lacking bombload options as all other Ki-49s, although being at a lower BR than the rest of them makes it slightly more acceptable. It is able to carry a maximum bomb load of 1,000 kg (in the form of 4 x 250 kg bombs). The best loadout is generally the 4 x 250 kg bombs as it is by far the largest total load; the 12 x 50 kg bombs are not much use on account of their small size and thus limited damage. Although a reduction in total bomb load, the single 500 kg bomb can also be useful against ground targets, due to its larger blast radius.

Defensive armament

Turret20 mm Ho-1 cannon
Ammunition150 rounds
Fire rate400 shots/min
4 х Turret7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun
Ammunition483 rounds
Fire rate900 shots/min
Turret7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun
Ammunition828 rounds
Fire rate900 shots/min
Ki-49-I Fires the dorsal 20 mm Ho-1 cannon. It packs a serious punch in exchange for a slow fire rate.

The Ki-49-I is defended by:

  • 1 x 20 mm Ho-1 cannon, dorsal turret (150 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, nose turret (483 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, 2 x beam turrets (483 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, ventral turret (483 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun, tail turret (828 rpg)
A significant part of the plane's underbelly suffers from lack of turret cover. There is no way to defend from enemies that are directly below the aircraft.

The defensive armament of the Ki-49-I is similar to the other members of the Ki-49 family. While the 20 mm cannon is certainly nice to have, its effectiveness is somewhat limited by being blocked from shooting directly rearwards by the aircraft's tail; it also cannot shoot downwards thanks to its location on the top of the aircraft. The rest of the defensive armament is generally weak consisting of single 7.7 mm machine guns.

Using the Ho-5: Being a better option than the 20 mm Type 99 cannon found on the G4M1 but found in a slightly worse position, the gun can take some getting used to. It has a much higher velocity and a much higher damage output. The two drawbacks are its incredibly slow rate of fire (400 RPM) and its unfavorable position. You'll need to actively bait the fighter onto your tail position in order to effectively defend yourself from the fighter threat.

Usage in battles

The Ki-49's ventral turret fires at an approaching fighter. While type 89 machine guns aren't much of a threat to fighters, it deter some opponents

The Ki-49's role is a low-altitude medium bomber capable of destroying ground targets such as pillboxes and tanks. Although hindered by a low total bomb capacity, this aircraft is renowned for its impressive manoeuvrability. This being said, it is very easy for the Ki-49 to hover above an area and drop all of its payloads rather quickly. Heavy bombers such as the G8N1 Renzan have a harder time due to their sheer size and slow rate of turn. Make sure to select the 4 x 250 kg bomb load outs if attacking targets like tanks, pillboxes, or smaller ships.

If attacked by fighters, it is important to remember and recognize the Ki-49's turning capabilities. Try not to act like a "sitting duck" because the Ki-49 features little armour protection and has limited defensive capabilities as far as weapons go. With only 7.7 mm machine guns, this aircraft is not suited for air to air combat against fighters. The best belt to use is the Armoured targets belt. If you can't shake someone off your tail aim for the pilot or the engine - your only hope of destroying the enemy plane. Get comfortable with setting up a position and exposing your enemy to the Ho-1 cannon's line of fire. Dive and make sure your enemy is forced to attack from above and behind, at a slight angle, to ensure that your cannon shots will connect. Those are the shots that count.

A formation of Ki-49-Is drops 250 kg bombs over soft targets

This aircraft has the ability to hold up to 1,000 kg of bombs in several different variations. 12 x 50 kg bombs, 4 x 250 kg bombs and 1 x 500 kg bomb. Use the 12 x 50 kg bombs to attack AA emplacements, howitzers, and artillery positions. They are not viable against bigger targets since direct hits are needed to destroy them. Use the 4 x 250 kg bombs to destroy heavier targets such as medium tanks, pillboxes, destroyers, and cargo ships. The 250 kg bombs are also the best loadout against bases. The 500 kg bombs only real use is in ground RB, where it is advantageous to have a large blast radius.

In Arcade battles, this aircraft is particularly proficient at bombing bases, especially with a maxed reload crew skill. Since the Ki-49 can virtually turn on a dime, instead of having to line up longer bombing runs like heavy bombers this aircraft can "hover" over the base or airfield and attempt dive attacks. It's also possible to use this same tactic against pillboxes or tanks. With fighter cover, a good reload time skill and good aim it's possible to destroy dozens of ground units.

Although unconventional, this aircraft is a fantastic weapon if you want to bait the enemy. Ideally, you would want to attract a higher flying enemy down to you and to get into a turnfight. This way, depending on the enemy aircraft you can outmanoeuvre and distract him while teammates fly down to finish him off.

In realistic battles, the top speed of the poor bomber is low, and the most dangerous part is that compression will always set in at redline speeds. This makes it almost impossible to pull out of a high speed dive without ripping your wings. There is however, a very simple solution to the problem. The bomb bay doors create an immense amount of drag when opened, and it effectively acts as a makeshift airbrake that can save the plane from compressing into the ground or ripping its wings.

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

The standard setup for manual engine control follows the standard Japanese procedure of keeping the propeller pitch in the mid-90s and the radiators open under 50%. If you want to be super picky about mixture settings, the generic formula is as follows: The mixture should be set to around 100% at sea level, and every 1 km higher you go, subtract 10% from the initial 100% mixture until you reach 4 km.

Pros and cons

Ki-49-I scores a direct hit

Pros:

  • Multiple gunners for protection in almost all directions
  • Armour protection around pilots and gunners
  • Manoeuvrable and decent climb rate for a medium bomber
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks
  • Can perform low-altitude bombing thanks to a responsive elevator
  • Internal payload creates no drag
  • Much more survivable than earlier Japanese bombers
  • Two pilots, increasing survivability
A Ki-49-I refueling

Cons:

  • Bombload suffers both in max capacity and explosive filler
  • Not much CAS potential
  • Lacks the ability to carry torpedoes unlike other Japanese bombers
  • The wing is an entire fuel tank, therefore any hits to the wing can cause fuel tank fires
  • Early versions of the Ki-49 only get 7.7 mm defensive guns, which have terrible damage output
  • Very poor roll rate
  • Easily falls prey to enemy interceptors
  • Compresses severely in high speed dives
  • Unlike the G4M1, 20 mm is mounted upwards, therefore it cannot fire at targets at the level directly behind the plane
  • Weak engine horsepower

History

A Ki-49 sporting camouflage of the 61st Sentai of the Indonesian combat zone

The Ki-49 first saw service in China. After the outbreak of the Pacific War, it flew in New Guinea Australia. The Ki-49 was also used in the defence of the Philippines. The first unit to receive Ki-49 Donryu was the 61st Sentai in China. An unknown amount of Ki-49s were involved in the Battle of Okinawa in 1945.

  • 95th Sentai, Papua New Guinea 1943
  • 61st Sentai, French Indochina 1944
  • 7th Sentai, 2nd Chutai 1944-45
  • 24th Sentai, 2nd Chutai Philippines 1944-45
  • 62st Sentai 3rd Chutai Burma 1944


Archive of the in-game description

Nakajima Ki-49-I Donryu Army Bomber, type 100 model 1 (code name "Helen")

Twin-engine monoplane medium bomber with retractable landing gear and tail wheel. The development of a new medium bomber (heavy bomber, by Japanese standards) for the Japanese Army Air Force began in the spring of 1938. The new airplane was to replace the Mitsubishi Ki-21 bomber.

Based on Japan's experience in its war with China, special attention was given to providing the bomber with high speed capabilities and strong defensive weaponry so that it could operate without fighter cover. The crew needed protective armour, and self-sealing fuel tanks were essential.

The first prototype of the Ki-49 (#4901) made its first flight in August of 1939. Production of the aircraft began in August 1940, and the plane was designated as the Nakajima Ki-49-i Donryu ("Storm Dragon"), type 100 model 1.

The Ki-49-i was equipped with two air-cooled 14-cylinder radial Hakadzima Ha-41 engines rated at 1,250 hp each. The plane's defensive armament included 1 Ho-1 Type 97 20 mm cannon in the upper fuselage and five 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns (which were significantly modernized versions of the Vickers), located in the nose, sides, and underneath the aircraft. In addition, one gun was located in a tail turret, the first time such a turret was employed by an aircraft of the Japanese army. The bomb bay, which occupied almost the entirety of the aircraft's middle section, could carry bombs ranging from 100 to 250 kilograms, in various combinations. A normal load was 750 kilograms, an overweight load, up to 1,000.

The new planes began to be delivered to the front in August of 1941 and were widely used over New Britain and New Guinea as well as in raids on the Australian port of Darwin.

It soon became evident that the Ha-41 engine's power was insufficient, and the controllability of the aircraft suffered as a result. The bomber's speed was not high enough to outrun the newer fighter planes. However, pilots approved of the plane's armour, the power of its defensive weaponry, and the reduction of that weaponry's blind spots.

In all, 128 Ki-49-i aircraft were constructed.


Media

Skins

See also

Related development

External links


Nakajima Aircraft Company (中島飛行機株式会社 )
Fighters  Ki-27 otsu · Ki-27 otsu Tachiarai
  Ki-43-I · Ki-43-II · Ki-43-III otsu
  Ki-44-I · Ki-44-I 34 · Ki-44-II otsu · Ki-44-II hei
  Ki-84 ko · Ki-84 otsu · Ki-84 hei
  Ki-87
Hydroplanes  A6M2-N*
Interceptors  J1N1 · J5N1
Bombers  B5N2
  B6N1 Model 11 · B6N2 Model 12 · B6N2a Model 12Ko
  G5N1 · G8N1
  Ki-49-I · Ki-49-IIa · Ki-49-IIb · Ki-49-IIb/L
Recon  E8N2
Jet Fighters  Kikka
Captured  ␗Ki-27 otsu · ▃Ki-43-II · ␗Ki-43-III ko · ␗Ki-44-II hei · ␗Ki-84 ko
  *Refit of the Mitsubishi A6M2 mod. 11
See also  Fuji Heavy Industries (1957-2017)

Japan bombers
Navy 
Carrier-based attack bomber 
B5N  B5N2
B6N  B6N1 · B6N2 · B6N2a
B7A  B7A2 · B7A2 (Homare 23)
Carrier-based dive bomber 
D3A  D3A1
D4Y  D4Y1 · D4Y2 · D4Y3 Ko
Shipboard Observation seaplane 
F1M  F1M2
Land-based Attack bomber 
G4M  G4M1
G5N  G5N1
G8N  G8N1
Flying boat 
H6K  H6K4
H8K  H8K2 · H8K3
Land-based Bomber 
P1Y  P1Y1
Army 
Light  Ki-32
  Ki-48-II otsu
Heavy  Ki-21-Ia · Ki-21-I hei
  Ki-49-I · Ki-49-IIa · Ki-49-IIb · Ki-49-IIb/L
  Ki-67-I Ko · Ki-67-I otsu
Other countries  ▅B-17E