Difference between revisions of "Pe-2-205"

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{{Specs-Card|code=pe-2-205}}
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{{About
 +
| about = gift Russian dive bomber '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
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| usage = other uses
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| link = Pe-2 (Family)
 +
}}
 +
{{Specs-Card
 +
|code=pe-2-205
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|images={{Specs-Card-Image|GarageImage_{{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 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 premium gift rank {{Specs|rank}} Soviet bomber {{Battle-rating}}. It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. It was available for purchase in the store as a [[wt:en/news/52--en|Peshka starter kit]] as soon as September 2012 until it was removed from the Gaijin store after the Clearance sale in November 2016. It was later obtainable from the [[Warbonds]] shop during January 2018 and was made temporarily available in-game for golden eagles ({{GE}}) during the [[wt:en/news/6048-event-defender-of-the-fatherland-en|2019 "Defender of the Fatherland"]] and [[wt:en/news/7054-event-defender-of-the-fatherland-en|2021 "Defender of the Fatherland"]] mini-events.
 +
 
 +
The Pe-2 (or "Peshka", as it was nicknamed) is one of the fastest bombers in its battle rating. It relies on its speed and outstanding manoeuvrability (for a bomber) to evade interception. While its defensive armament is acceptable, it should only rely on its gunners as a last resort. The 12.7 mm UBT heavy machine guns covering the rear can be quite effective, but the waist 7.62 mm ShKAS machine guns are not very useful.
 +
 
 +
The Pe-2 is only capable of carrying up to 1,000 kg of bombs, and even then only externally, which will noticeably cut performance. However, it is also the only bomber in its battle rating that can equip rockets like the RS-132 and semi-armour piercing RBS-132. The RS-132 with the fuse set to air-burst can be surprisingly effective against bombers with good aim. The RBS-132 is more effective against tanks in Realistic Battles. It is also equipped with two fixed forward-firing machine guns (12.7 mm UB and 7.62 mm ShKAS), although these have relatively limited utility other than strafing light targets.
 +
 
 +
As a dive bomber, the aircraft is equipped with dive brakes to control the acceleration during dive attacks. However, the Pe-2 also has a level bombsight, which allows it to bomb from altitude with decent accuracy.
 +
 
 +
The Petlyakov Pe-2 is a versatile high-speed tactical level and dive bomber. It has very good performance and manoeuvrability for a twin-engine bomber, attained at the expense of the payload. It excels at surgical strikes against small targets like pillboxes and tanks. The Pe-2 can also be used as a level bomber against stationary targets, although the small payload makes it less efficient than heavier bombers like the Heinkel He 111 series.
  
 
== General info ==
 
== General info ==
=== Flight Performance ===
+
=== Flight performance ===
''Describe how the aircraft behaves in the air. Maximum speed, maneuverability, speed and allowable loads - these are the most important characteristics of the vehicle.''
+
{{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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="70%"
 +
! rowspan="2" | Characteristics
 +
! colspan="2" | Max Speed<br>(km/h at 3,700 m)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Max altitude<br>(metres)
 +
! colspan="2" | Turn time<br>(seconds)
 +
! colspan="2" | Rate of climb<br>(metres/second)
 +
! rowspan="2" | Take-off run<br>(metres)
 +
|-
 +
! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB !! AB !! RB
 +
|-
 +
! Stock
 +
| 507 || 493 || rowspan="2" | {{Specs|ceiling}} || 28.4 || 29.8 || 10.6 || 10.5 || rowspan="2" | 326
 +
|-
 +
! Upgraded
 +
| 540 || 524 || 25.8 || 27.0 || 15.1 || 12.8
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
==== Details ====
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="5" | Features
 +
|-
 +
! Combat flaps !! Take-off flaps !! Landing flaps !! Air brakes !! Arrestor gear
 +
|-
 +
| ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || ✓ || X    <!-- ✓ -->
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="50%"
 +
|-
 +
! 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|body}} || {{Specs|destruction|gear}} || 508 || 477 || 320 || ~11 || ~6
 +
|-
 +
|}
 +
 
 +
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 +
|-
 +
! colspan="4" | Optimal velocities (km/h)
 +
|-
 +
! Ailerons !! Rudder !! Elevators !! Radiator
 +
|-
 +
| < 380 || < 380 || < 440 || > 250
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== 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.'' -->
 +
 
 +
* 13.5 mm Steel plate behind the pilot
 +
* 8 mm Steel plate in front of the dorsal gunner
 +
* 8 mm Steel plate in front of the ventral gunner
 +
* Self-sealing fuel tanks, with neutral gas pressurization system (1 in central fuselage, 3 in each wing)
 +
 
 +
=== Modifications and economy ===
 +
{{Specs-Economy}}
  
== Weaponry ==
+
== Armaments ==
=== Offensive weaponry ===
+
{{Specs-Avia-Armaments}}
''Describe the offensive weaponry 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.''
+
=== Offensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Offensive}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe the offensive armament of the aircraft, if any. Describe how effective the cannons and machine guns are in a battle, and also what belts or drums are better to use. If there is no offensive weaponry, delete this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|Berezin UB (12.7 mm)|ShKAS (7.62 mm)}}
  
=== Suspended weaponry ===
+
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is armed with:
''Describe the aircraft's suspended weapons: 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.''
 
  
=== Defensive weaponry ===
+
* 1 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine gun, nose-mounted (150 rpg)
''Defensive weaponry 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.''
+
* 1 x 7.62 mm ShKAS machine gun, nose-mounted (450 rpg)
  
== Usage in the battles ==
+
=== Suspended armament ===
''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).''
+
{{Specs-Avia-Suspended}}
 +
<!-- ''Describe the aircraft's suspended armament: additional cannons under the wings, bombs, rockets and torpedoes. This section is especially important for bombers and attackers. If there is no suspended weaponry remove this subsection.'' -->
 +
{{main|FAB-100sv (100 kg)|FAB-250sv (250 kg)|FAB-500sv (500 kg)|RBS-132|RS-132}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' can be outfitted with the following ordnance:
 +
 
 +
* 6 x 100 kg FAB-100sv bombs (600 kg total)
 +
* 2 x 250 kg FAB-250sv bombs + 4 x 100 kg FAB-100sv bombs (900 kg total)
 +
* 4 x 250 kg FAB-250sv bombs (1,000 kg total)
 +
* 2 x 500 kg FAB-500sv bombs (1,000 kg total)
 +
* 10 x RS-132 rockets
 +
* 10 x RBS-132 rockets
 +
 
 +
=== Defensive armament ===
 +
{{Specs-Avia-Defensive}}
 +
<!-- ''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|Berezin UB (12.7 mm)|ShKAS (7.62 mm)}}
 +
 
 +
The '''''{{PAGENAME}}''''' is defended by:
 +
 
 +
* 1 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine gun, dorsal turret (200 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine gun, ventral turret (200 rpg)
 +
* 1 x 7.62 mm ShKAS machine gun, 2 x beam turret (225 rpg = 450 total)
 +
 
 +
== 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).'' -->
 +
The Peshka offers many options in combat depending on the loadout. As a dive bomber, the Pe-2 can use its high diving speed to quickly strike at some targets from high altitude, building up enough speed in the dive to evade interception and return to friendly airspace. The Pe-2 can also perform as a level bomber if there are too many enemies at low altitude to safely dive-bomb, although the small payload is not efficient against bases. The 500 kg FAB-500 bomb is the most effective bomb against bases and pillboxes from high altitude. Finally, the Pe-2 can equip RS-132 rockets with air-burst fuses and utilize them against enemy bombers, thanks to its high performance and bomber altitude spawn. The RBS-132 rockets are most effective in Ground Realistic Battles due to the better-modelled damage mechanics against tanks there.
 +
[[File:BomberImage_Pe-2X-ray.jpg|thumbnail|X-Ray view of the Peshka's modules. Note the very big fuel tanks placed all over the plane.]]
 +
As with any bomber, the defensive guns on the Pe-2 are a last resort, and should not be relied upon to consistently fend off enemies. Its high performance and manoeuvrability are its best defence.
 +
 
 +
=== 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 || Controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Not controllable<br>Not auto controlled || Controllable<br>Auto control available || Separate || Controllable<br>2 gears || Not controllable
 +
|-
 +
|}
  
 
=== 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".'' -->
  
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
*
+
 
 +
* Fixed forward-firing machine guns
 +
* Outstanding performance and manoeuvrability (especially roll rate) for a bomber
 +
* Can equip rockets
 +
* Has a bombsight and dive brakes, allowing it to act as a level or dive bomber
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
*
 
  
== Historical part ==
+
* Machine guns are insufficient for any ground target heavier than an armoured car
''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/index.php?title=Name-vehicles/historical reference) and add a link to it here using the main template. Be sure to include links to sources at the end of the article.''
+
* Large fuel tank in the midsection makes it vulnerable to fires
 +
* Small internal payload, and must carry the heaviest payloads externally
 +
* Defensive armament is average at best
 +
 
 +
== History ==
 +
<!-- ''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the aircraft in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too long, take it to a separate article, taking a link to the article about the vehicle and adding a block "/History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article with <code><nowiki><references /></nowiki></code>. This section may also include the vehicle's dev blog entry (if applicable) and the in-game encyclopedia description (under <code><nowiki>=== In-game description ===</nowiki></code>, also if applicable).'' -->
 +
[[File:Petlyakov Pe-2 Peshka (14467132393).jpg|thumbnail|Two Peshkas flying in formation. Likely to be two more out of the picture and therefore part of a flight of Pe-2s.]]
 +
 
 +
Originally, the Petlyakov Pe-2 was not supposed to be a bomber at all. Its direct predecessor, designated VI-100, was designed by a prison design bureau team led by Vladimir Petlyakov as a high-altitude escort fighter. The VI-100 was very modern for its time, featuring a pressurized two-seat cockpit, electrically actuated systems and all-metal construction, and was powered by two supercharged Klimov M-105 V-12 inline engines producing 1100 horsepower each. The prototype was completed in 1939 and during its first test flight on 7th May 1939, it reached a top speed of 627.6 km/h (390 mph) – an astounding performance for its time.  The results of flight tests were so promising that the VI-100 was ordered into production.
 +
 
 +
However, Germany launched the "Blitzkrieg" campaign in September 1939. Aside from their revolutionary usage of tanks, the campaign in Poland featured notable usage of Ju 87 dive bombers and showed their potential. Consequently, the Soviet authorities ordered the VI-100 to be redesigned as a dive bomber. Pressurization equipment and engine superchargers were removed, dive brakes were installed under the wings and the bombardier position was added to the nose of the aircraft(raising the number of crew members to three). A ventral bomb bay was added along with the two smaller bomb positions located at the rear of engine nacelles.  Two rear-facing turrets, each armed by a single ShKAS machine gun, were installed to dorsal and ventral positions. Resulting aircraft, able to carry up to 1600 kg / 3520 lbs of bombs, was designated PB-100. The first prototype flew on 15th December 1940 and its performance (top speed of 540.7 km/h (336 mph)) was so good that Vladimir Petlyakov was released and the aircraft was named after him, thus receiving the designation Petlyakov Pe-2. The bomber was then rushed into serial production and deliveries to combat units began in the spring of 1941. The deliveries were, however, slow and by the time of the German invasion in June 1941, only about 458 Pe-2's were delivered.
 +
 
 +
The Pe-2, nicknamed Peshka ("Pawn") by its crews, quickly proved itself to be an effective dive bomber and together with the Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik attacker, it became the most important offensive weapon of the Soviet Army Air Force. The bomber was fast and agile enough to be an elusive target for German fighters and also proved its versatility – it was used for reconnaissance and artillery spotting and also became the basis for the [[Pe-3bis|Pe-3]] heavy fighter. Losses were heavy, however. Crews often complained about a lack of armour protection for the cockpit and fuel tanks as well as poor defensive armament and unreliable dive brakes, which sometimes failed to retract and allowed top speeds of only around 300 km/h (186.4 mph), making the fast bomber easy prey.
 +
 
 +
=== In-game description ===
 +
By the summer of 1943, due to growing production volume and a general decrease in quality, the basic performance characteristics of production bombers had degraded to an intolerable level. The Factory No. 22 designers were tasked with drastically improving the quality of the bombers produced. The new chief designer, V. M. Myasishchev, was in charge of this work.
 +
 
 +
The Factory No. 22 designers, together with the researchers of the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI), proposed a number of improvements for the Pe-2 design that were implemented in production in August 1943, beginning with series 205. Improvements were made to the flaps, cowls, and access doors, pressurization of the whole aircraft was ensured, the shape of the cooler ducts was altered, and carburettor inlet ducts with improved aerodynamics were installed. Brake cover fairings and a new single-blade compensator (with an increased area) for the VUB-1 turret were also installed. The radio antenna mast, together with the airspeed tube, was removed to the front arch of the cockpit canopy, and the junction of the canopy and the VUB-1 turret was improved. Some planes had individual exhaust pipes installed instead of the previous general exhaust manifolds.
 +
 
 +
Beginning with series 211, the beams of external bomb racks were moved into the wings, and beginning with series 249, it was decided that the oil should be diluted with gasoline in the winter. From series 265 on, the RSB-bis radio set was replaced with an RSB-3bis, and the general antenna-feeder system was improved, drastically increasing radio coverage. Series 275 saw yet another reinforcement of the Pe-2's rear defense: a DAG-10 grenade launcher was installed, with 10 AG-2 aerial grenades. The grenades were housed in the radio operator/gunner's cockpit in two clusters (five in each). A grenade launched from the aircraft would initially reduce speed (with a small parachute) and then, after a delay of 3 to 5 seconds, explode in the path of a pursuing fighter. The grenade launcher gave the gunner a chance to stop German fighters from comfortably attacking the Pe-2 from their favorite position, the rear.
 +
 
 +
Crews noted the bomber's high maneuverability and survivability, the good field of view from the cockpit, and good stability during dives. At the same time, though, it was noted that the aircraft was rather difficult to pilot, especially when taking off and landing.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
''Прекрасным дополнением к статье станут видеогайды, а также скриншоты из игры и фотографии.''
+
<!-- ''Excellent additions to the article would be video guides, screenshots from the game, and photos.'' -->
 +
 
 +
;Skins
 +
 
 +
* [https://live.warthunder.com/feed/camouflages/?vehicleCountry=ussr&vehicleType=aircraft&vehicleClass=bomber&vehicle=pe-2-205 Skins and camouflages for the {{PAGENAME}} from live.warthunder.com.]
  
== Read also ==
+
;Images
''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example,''
+
<gallery mode="packed-hover">
 +
Image:Cockpit_Pe-2.jpg|<small>Cockpit with translated gauges</small>
 +
</gallery>
 +
 
 +
;Videos
 +
{{Youtube-gallery|9cYrRqnLRCs|'''Gameplay - Premium Pe-2-205 Peshka - Arcade Battle - Easy Money''' - ''Jim Chamberlin''|31CgfSq1gdo|'''Gameplay - Pe-2 Peshka - Silver Lion and XP Grinder Extraordinaire''' - ''BaronVonGamez''}}
 +
 
 +
== See also ==
 +
<!-- ''Links to the articles on the War Thunder Wiki that you think will be useful for the reader, for example:''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
 
* ''reference to the series of the aircraft;''
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''
+
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.'' -->
''ETC.''
 
  
== Sources ==
+
;Related development
''Paste links to sources and external resources, such as:''
+
 
 +
* [[Pe-2 (Family)]]
 +
 
 +
;Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era
 +
 
 +
* [[Pe-3 (Family)]]
 +
 
 +
== 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 the Wikipedia;''
+
* ''other literature.'' -->
* ''page on aircraft encyclopedia;''
+
 
* ''other literature.''
+
* [[wt:en/news/3341--en|[Vehicle Profile] Pe-2-359]]
 +
* [[wikipedia:Petlyakov_Pe-2|[Wikipedia] Petlyakov Pe-2]]
 +
* [http://www.airvectors.net/avpe2.html <nowiki>[Air Vectors]</nowiki> The Petlyakov Pe-2]
 +
 
 +
{{AirManufacturer Petlyakov}}
 +
{{USSR bombers}}
 +
{{USSR premium aircraft}}

Revision as of 17:05, 11 April 2021

Rank VI Israel | Premium | Golden Eagles
Merkava Mk.2D Pack
This page is about the gift Russian dive bomber Pe-2-205. For other uses, see Pe-2 (Family).
Pe-2-205
pe-2-205.png
GarageImage Pe-2-205.jpg
Pe-2-205
Show in game

Description

The Pe-2-205 Peshka is a premium gift rank III Soviet bomber with a battle rating of 3.7 (AB/RB/SB). It has been in the game since the start of the Open Beta Test prior to Update 1.27. It was available for purchase in the store as a Peshka starter kit as soon as September 2012 until it was removed from the Gaijin store after the Clearance sale in November 2016. It was later obtainable from the Warbonds shop during January 2018 and was made temporarily available in-game for golden eagles (Ge icon.png) during the 2019 "Defender of the Fatherland" and 2021 "Defender of the Fatherland" mini-events.

The Pe-2 (or "Peshka", as it was nicknamed) is one of the fastest bombers in its battle rating. It relies on its speed and outstanding manoeuvrability (for a bomber) to evade interception. While its defensive armament is acceptable, it should only rely on its gunners as a last resort. The 12.7 mm UBT heavy machine guns covering the rear can be quite effective, but the waist 7.62 mm ShKAS machine guns are not very useful.

The Pe-2 is only capable of carrying up to 1,000 kg of bombs, and even then only externally, which will noticeably cut performance. However, it is also the only bomber in its battle rating that can equip rockets like the RS-132 and semi-armour piercing RBS-132. The RS-132 with the fuse set to air-burst can be surprisingly effective against bombers with good aim. The RBS-132 is more effective against tanks in Realistic Battles. It is also equipped with two fixed forward-firing machine guns (12.7 mm UB and 7.62 mm ShKAS), although these have relatively limited utility other than strafing light targets.

As a dive bomber, the aircraft is equipped with dive brakes to control the acceleration during dive attacks. However, the Pe-2 also has a level bombsight, which allows it to bomb from altitude with decent accuracy.

The Petlyakov Pe-2 is a versatile high-speed tactical level and dive bomber. It has very good performance and manoeuvrability for a twin-engine bomber, attained at the expense of the payload. It excels at surgical strikes against small targets like pillboxes and tanks. The Pe-2 can also be used as a level bomber against stationary targets, although the small payload makes it less efficient than heavier bombers like the Heinkel He 111 series.

General info

Flight performance

Air brakes
Allows you to dramatically reduce the flight speed by releasing special flaps
Max speed
at 3 700 m524 km/h
Turn time27 s
Max altitude8 800 m
Engine2 х Klimov VK-105PF
TypeInline
Cooling systemWater
Take-off weight9 t
Characteristics Max Speed
(km/h at 3,700 m)
Max altitude
(metres)
Turn time
(seconds)
Rate of climb
(metres/second)
Take-off run
(metres)
AB RB AB RB AB RB
Stock 507 493 8800 28.4 29.8 10.6 10.5 326
Upgraded 540 524 25.8 27.0 15.1 12.8

Details

Features
Combat flaps Take-off flaps Landing flaps Air brakes Arrestor gear
X
Limits
Wings (km/h) Gear (km/h) Flaps (km/h) Max Static G
Combat Take-off Landing + -
740 450 508 477 320 ~11 ~6
Optimal velocities (km/h)
Ailerons Rudder Elevators Radiator
< 380 < 380 < 440 > 250

Survivability and armour

Crew3 people
Speed of destruction
Structural740 km/h
Gear450 km/h
  • 13.5 mm Steel plate behind the pilot
  • 8 mm Steel plate in front of the dorsal gunner
  • 8 mm Steel plate in front of the ventral gunner
  • Self-sealing fuel tanks, with neutral gas pressurization system (1 in central fuselage, 3 in each wing)

Modifications and economy

Repair cost
AB681 Sl icon.png
RB2 973 Sl icon.png
SB2 525 Sl icon.png
Crew training10 000 Sl icon.png
Experts67 000 Sl icon.png
Aces400 Ge icon.png
Research Aces570 000 Rp icon.png
Reward for battleAB / RB / SB
Talisman.png 2 × 70 / 190 / 320 % Sl icon.png
Talisman.png 2 × 136 / 136 / 136 % Rp icon.png
Modifications
Flight performance Survivability Weaponry
Mods aerodinamic fuse.png
Fuselage repair
Mods radiator.png
Radiator
Mods armor frame.png
Airframe
Mods compressor.png
Compressor
Mods aerodinamic wing.png
Wings repair
Mods new engine.png
Engine
Mods armor cover.png
Cover
Mods ammo.png
shkas_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
shkas_turret_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon bomb.png
DZ-40
Mod arrow 1.png
Mods weapon.png
shkas_new_gun
Mods turret gun.png
shkas_turret_new_gun
Mods ammo.png
ub_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods ammo.png
ub_turret_belt_pack
Mod arrow 0.png
Mods pilon rocket.png
RO-132
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ub_new_gun
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ub_turret_new_gun

Armaments

Offensive armament

The Pe-2-205 is armed with:

  • 1 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine gun, nose-mounted (150 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.62 mm ShKAS machine gun, nose-mounted (450 rpg)

Suspended armament

The Pe-2-205 can be outfitted with the following ordnance:

  • 6 x 100 kg FAB-100sv bombs (600 kg total)
  • 2 x 250 kg FAB-250sv bombs + 4 x 100 kg FAB-100sv bombs (900 kg total)
  • 4 x 250 kg FAB-250sv bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 2 x 500 kg FAB-500sv bombs (1,000 kg total)
  • 10 x RS-132 rockets
  • 10 x RBS-132 rockets

Defensive armament

The Pe-2-205 is defended by:

  • 1 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine gun, dorsal turret (200 rpg)
  • 1 x 12.7 mm Berezin UB machine gun, ventral turret (200 rpg)
  • 1 x 7.62 mm ShKAS machine gun, 2 x beam turret (225 rpg = 450 total)

Usage in battles

The Peshka offers many options in combat depending on the loadout. As a dive bomber, the Pe-2 can use its high diving speed to quickly strike at some targets from high altitude, building up enough speed in the dive to evade interception and return to friendly airspace. The Pe-2 can also perform as a level bomber if there are too many enemies at low altitude to safely dive-bomb, although the small payload is not efficient against bases. The 500 kg FAB-500 bomb is the most effective bomb against bases and pillboxes from high altitude. Finally, the Pe-2 can equip RS-132 rockets with air-burst fuses and utilize them against enemy bombers, thanks to its high performance and bomber altitude spawn. The RBS-132 rockets are most effective in Ground Realistic Battles due to the better-modelled damage mechanics against tanks there.

X-Ray view of the Peshka's modules. Note the very big fuel tanks placed all over the plane.

As with any bomber, the defensive guns on the Pe-2 are a last resort, and should not be relied upon to consistently fend off enemies. Its high performance and manoeuvrability are its best defence.

Manual Engine Control

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

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Fixed forward-firing machine guns
  • Outstanding performance and manoeuvrability (especially roll rate) for a bomber
  • Can equip rockets
  • Has a bombsight and dive brakes, allowing it to act as a level or dive bomber

Cons:

  • Machine guns are insufficient for any ground target heavier than an armoured car
  • Large fuel tank in the midsection makes it vulnerable to fires
  • Small internal payload, and must carry the heaviest payloads externally
  • Defensive armament is average at best

History

Two Peshkas flying in formation. Likely to be two more out of the picture and therefore part of a flight of Pe-2s.

Originally, the Petlyakov Pe-2 was not supposed to be a bomber at all. Its direct predecessor, designated VI-100, was designed by a prison design bureau team led by Vladimir Petlyakov as a high-altitude escort fighter. The VI-100 was very modern for its time, featuring a pressurized two-seat cockpit, electrically actuated systems and all-metal construction, and was powered by two supercharged Klimov M-105 V-12 inline engines producing 1100 horsepower each. The prototype was completed in 1939 and during its first test flight on 7th May 1939, it reached a top speed of 627.6 km/h (390 mph) – an astounding performance for its time. The results of flight tests were so promising that the VI-100 was ordered into production.

However, Germany launched the "Blitzkrieg" campaign in September 1939. Aside from their revolutionary usage of tanks, the campaign in Poland featured notable usage of Ju 87 dive bombers and showed their potential. Consequently, the Soviet authorities ordered the VI-100 to be redesigned as a dive bomber. Pressurization equipment and engine superchargers were removed, dive brakes were installed under the wings and the bombardier position was added to the nose of the aircraft(raising the number of crew members to three). A ventral bomb bay was added along with the two smaller bomb positions located at the rear of engine nacelles. Two rear-facing turrets, each armed by a single ShKAS machine gun, were installed to dorsal and ventral positions. Resulting aircraft, able to carry up to 1600 kg / 3520 lbs of bombs, was designated PB-100. The first prototype flew on 15th December 1940 and its performance (top speed of 540.7 km/h (336 mph)) was so good that Vladimir Petlyakov was released and the aircraft was named after him, thus receiving the designation Petlyakov Pe-2. The bomber was then rushed into serial production and deliveries to combat units began in the spring of 1941. The deliveries were, however, slow and by the time of the German invasion in June 1941, only about 458 Pe-2's were delivered.

The Pe-2, nicknamed Peshka ("Pawn") by its crews, quickly proved itself to be an effective dive bomber and together with the Ilyushin Il-2 Sturmovik attacker, it became the most important offensive weapon of the Soviet Army Air Force. The bomber was fast and agile enough to be an elusive target for German fighters and also proved its versatility – it was used for reconnaissance and artillery spotting and also became the basis for the Pe-3 heavy fighter. Losses were heavy, however. Crews often complained about a lack of armour protection for the cockpit and fuel tanks as well as poor defensive armament and unreliable dive brakes, which sometimes failed to retract and allowed top speeds of only around 300 km/h (186.4 mph), making the fast bomber easy prey.

In-game description

By the summer of 1943, due to growing production volume and a general decrease in quality, the basic performance characteristics of production bombers had degraded to an intolerable level. The Factory No. 22 designers were tasked with drastically improving the quality of the bombers produced. The new chief designer, V. M. Myasishchev, was in charge of this work.

The Factory No. 22 designers, together with the researchers of the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute (TsAGI), proposed a number of improvements for the Pe-2 design that were implemented in production in August 1943, beginning with series 205. Improvements were made to the flaps, cowls, and access doors, pressurization of the whole aircraft was ensured, the shape of the cooler ducts was altered, and carburettor inlet ducts with improved aerodynamics were installed. Brake cover fairings and a new single-blade compensator (with an increased area) for the VUB-1 turret were also installed. The radio antenna mast, together with the airspeed tube, was removed to the front arch of the cockpit canopy, and the junction of the canopy and the VUB-1 turret was improved. Some planes had individual exhaust pipes installed instead of the previous general exhaust manifolds.

Beginning with series 211, the beams of external bomb racks were moved into the wings, and beginning with series 249, it was decided that the oil should be diluted with gasoline in the winter. From series 265 on, the RSB-bis radio set was replaced with an RSB-3bis, and the general antenna-feeder system was improved, drastically increasing radio coverage. Series 275 saw yet another reinforcement of the Pe-2's rear defense: a DAG-10 grenade launcher was installed, with 10 AG-2 aerial grenades. The grenades were housed in the radio operator/gunner's cockpit in two clusters (five in each). A grenade launched from the aircraft would initially reduce speed (with a small parachute) and then, after a delay of 3 to 5 seconds, explode in the path of a pursuing fighter. The grenade launcher gave the gunner a chance to stop German fighters from comfortably attacking the Pe-2 from their favorite position, the rear.

Crews noted the bomber's high maneuverability and survivability, the good field of view from the cockpit, and good stability during dives. At the same time, though, it was noted that the aircraft was rather difficult to pilot, especially when taking off and landing.

Media

Skins
Images
Videos

See also

Related development
Aircraft of comparable role, configuration and era

External links


V.M. Petlyakov Design Bureau (Опытное конструкторское бюро Петлякова)
Fighters  Pe-3 (e) · Pe-3 · Pe-3bis
Bombers  Pe-2-1 · Pe-2-31 · Pe-2-83 · Pe-2-110 · Pe-2-205 · Pe-2-359 · Pe-8

USSR bombers
SB and Ar  SB 2M-100 · SB 2M-103 · SB 2M-103 MV-3 · SB 2M-103U · SB 2M-103U MV-3 · SB 2M-105 · Ar-2
Yer-2 (petrol)  Yer-2 (M-105) · Yer-2 (M-105) TAT · Yer-2 (M-105R) TAT · Yer-2 (M-105R) LU
Yer-2 (diesel)  Yer-2 (ACh-30B) (e) · Yer-2 (ACh-30B) (l)
Tu  Tu-2 · Tu-2S · Tu-2S-44 · Tu-2S-59 · Tu-4
Pe  Pe-2-1 · Pe-2-31 · Pe-2-83 · Pe-2-110 · Pe-2-205 · Pe-2-359 · Pe-8
IL  DB-3B · IL-4
  Po-2 · Po-2M · MBR-2-M-34 · TB-3M-17-32 · Yak-4 · Be-6
Lend-Lease  ▂PBY-5A Catalina · ▂Hampden TB Mk I · ▂A-20G-30 · ▂B-25J-30

USSR premium aircraft
Fighters  Krasnolutsky's I-15bis · I-16 type 28 · Zhukovsky's I-153-M62 · I-153P · I-180S · I-301 · ITP (M-1)
  LaGG-3-4 · LaGG-3-23 · LaGG-3-34 · Dolgushin's La-7 · La-11
  Yak-3 (VK-107) · Yak-3T · Golovachev's Yak-9M
  ▂P-39K-1 · ▂Pokryshkin's P-39N-0 · ▂P-39Q-15 · ▂P-40E-1 · ▂P-47D-27 · ▂P-63A-5 · ▂P-63A-10 · ▂P-63C-5
  ▂Hurricane Mk IIB · ▂Spitfire Mk IXc · ▂Fw 190 D-9
Twin-engine fighters  I-29
Jet fighters  Su-11 · MiG-15bis ISH · MiG-17AS · MiG-21S (R-13-300) · MiG-23ML
Strike aircraft  IL-2M "Avenger" · IL-2 M-82 · IL-8 (1944) · Su-6 · Tandem MAI · TIS MA · Su-8 · Tu-1
  Yak-38 · Su-7BMK · Su-25K · Su-39
Bombers  Po-2M · Be-6 · MBR-2-M-34 · Pe-2-205 · TB-3M-17-32
  ▂PBY-5A Catalina · ▂Hampden TB Mk I · ▂A-20G-30 · ▂B-25J-30