Difference between revisions of "MTB Vosper(2)"

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{{Specs-Card|code=uk_mtb_vosper_2series}}
 
{{Specs-Card|code=uk_mtb_vosper_2series}}
 +
{{About
 +
| about = British motor torpedo boat '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
 +
| usage = other versions
 +
| link = MTB Vosper (Family)
 +
}}
  
 
== Description ==
 
== Description ==
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''If necessary, use a graphic template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.''-->
 
''If necessary, use a graphic template to show the most well-protected or most vulnerable points in the armour.''-->
  
Vosper 2 series has the following armour layout:
+
[[File:{{PAGENAME}}_Internals.png|thumb|{{PAGENAME}} internals (starboard). Note the ammunition storage below the bridge.]]
  
* [[Oerlikon Mk.II (20 mm)|20 mm Oerlikon Mk.II]] gunshield: 12.7 mm hardened armour
+
{{PAGENAME}} has the following armour layout:
 +
 
 +
* [[20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II (20 mm)|20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II]] gun shield: 12.7 mm, hardened armour
 
* Hull: 24 mm, wood
 
* Hull: 24 mm, wood
 
* Superstructure: 15 mm, wood
 
* Superstructure: 15 mm, wood
  
[[File:Vosper_2_series_internals.png|thumb|Vosper 2 series internals (starboard side). Note the ammo storages below the bridge.]]
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While the gun shield may stop low-calibre machineguns, heavy machineguns and cannons will have no trouble with them at any range. The hull and superstructure will not stop any sort of gunfire.
 +
 
 +
{{PAGENAME}} can be hull-broken by any round with a large enough diameter and a large enough explosive mass. In general, this is limited to HE rounds fired from guns greater than 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter. Hull-break triggers when such a round hits and destroys any hull compartment — or in some cases, the bridge — upon which the rest of the boat is destroyed. At {{PAGENAME}}' battle rating, there is only one gun capable of hull-breaking her:
  
Any gun in the game will easily be able to penetrate anywhere on the boat, including the gunshield, at practically any range.  
+
* the [[8cwt QF Mk I (114 mm)|8cwt QF Mk I]], found on {{Specs-Link|uk_dark_class}}.
  
Vosper 2 series can be hull-broken by any gun that is greater than or equal to 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter. Hull-break triggers when a capable gun destroys any hull compartment or the bridge, resulting in instant destruction of the rest of the boat. At Vosper 2 series' battle rating, these include the [[8cwt QF Mk I (114 mm)|8cwt QF Mk I]] (found on {{Specs-Link|uk_dark_class}}), the [[4 in QF Mark V (102 mm)|4 in QF Mark V]] (found on {{Specs-Link|uk_isles_class_trawler}}), and the [[BL Mark IX (102 mm)|BL Mark IX]] (found on {{Specs-Link|uk_flower_class}}). While it isn't uncommon for a boat in tier 1 and 2 to be able to be hull-broken by guns larger than 4 inches, it's relatively rare for it to be able to be hull-broken by actual 4-inch guns. This trait is generally given only to reserve boats or boats very early in the tech tree, including Vosper 2 series.
+
The hull is split into three compartments. The first compartment starts at the bow and ends at the forward gun mount; the second ends in front of the aft gun mount, between the fuel tanks and the engines; and the third ends at the stern.  
  
Vosper 2 series' hull is split into three compartments. The first compartment starts at the bow and ends just in front of the forward gun mounts. The second starts at the forward gun mounts and ends in front of the engines. The third starts at the engines and ends at the stern. Overall, with a crew complement of 12, survivability is average.
+
{{PAGENAME}} has one ammunition storage that holds ammunition for both the primary armament and secondary armament. It is located directly below the bridge, just above the waterline. Destroying it will instantly destroy the boat.
  
Of note are the ammo storages located just underneath the bridge. Destroying these will also destroy the rest of the boat. In practice, though, this almost never happens, since most guns at this battle rating are either machine guns or low-calibre autocannons which require many hits to destroy ammo storages. It's often both quicker and easier to target the hull compartments and knock out the crew.
+
With a crew complement of 12, {{PAGENAME}}' overall survivability is average.  
  
 
=== Mobility ===
 
=== Mobility ===
 
<!--''Write about the ship’s mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward speed and reverse speed.''-->
 
<!--''Write about the ship’s mobility. Evaluate its power and manoeuvrability, rudder rerouting speed, stopping speed at full tilt, with its maximum forward speed and reverse speed.''-->
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{{NavalMobility
! colspan="6" | '''Mobility Characteristics'''
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|SpeedForwardStockAB = 76
|-
+
|SpeedBackStockAB = 26
! rowspan="2" | Game Mode
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|TurnTimeStockAB = 23.68
! rowspan="2" | Upgrade Status
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|TurnSpeedStockAB = 45
! colspan="2" | Maximum Speed (km/h)
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! rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Turn Time (s)|Time needed to complete a 360° turn at maximum speed}}
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|TurnTimeSpadedAB = 16.33
! rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|Turn Radius (m)|At maximum speed}}
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|TurnSpeedSpadedAB = 43
|-
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! rowspan="1" | Forward
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|SpeedForwardStockRB = 64
! rowspan="1" | Reverse
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|SpeedBackStockRB = 22
|-
+
|TurnTimeStockRB = 26.53
| rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|AB|Arcade Battles}}
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|TurnSpeedStockRB = 46
| {{Annotation|Stock|All modifications removed}} || 76 || 26 || ~23.68 || ~47.11
+
 
|-
+
|TurnTimeSpadedRB = 21.99
| {{Annotation|Upgraded|All modifications installed}} || 104 || 35 || ~16.33 || ~31.04
+
|TurnSpeedSpadedRB = 45
|-
+
}}
| rowspan="2" | {{Annotation|RB|Realistic Battles}}/{{Annotation|SB|Simulator Battles}}
+
 
| {{Annotation|Stock|All modifications removed}} || 64 || 22 || ~26.53 || ~53.95
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{{PAGENAME}} has a displacement of 38 tons.
|-
 
| {{Annotation|Upgraded|All modifications installed}} || 74 || 25 || ~21.99 || ~43.75
 
|-
 
|}
 
  
When moving forwards at high speeds, the bow will slightly lift out of the water, and the hull will drift very slightly to starboard without any player input, though both are unnoticeable in gameplay and don't affect the firing of the guns in any real way. Vosper 2 series has a displacement of 38 tons.
+
When moving at high speeds, either forwards or backwards, {{PAGENAME}} will drift slightly to starboard without any player input.  
  
 
== Armament ==
 
== Armament ==
 
=== Primary armament ===
 
=== Primary armament ===
{{main|Oerlikon Mk.II (20 mm)}}
+
{{main|20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II (20 mm)}}
 
<!--''Provide information about the characteristics of the primary armament. Evaluate their efficacy in battle based on their reload speed, ballistics and the capacity of their shells. Add a link to the main article about the weapon: <code><nowiki>{{main|Weapon name (calibre)}}</nowiki></code>.''
 
<!--''Provide information about the characteristics of the primary armament. Evaluate their efficacy in battle based on their reload speed, ballistics and the capacity of their shells. Add a link to the main article about the weapon: <code><nowiki>{{main|Weapon name (calibre)}}</nowiki></code>.''
  
 
''Broadly describe the ammunition available for the primary armament, and provide recommendations on how to use it and which ammunition to choose.''-->
 
''Broadly describe the ammunition available for the primary armament, and provide recommendations on how to use it and which ammunition to choose.''-->
  
In her main armament group, Vosper 2 series has one 20 mm Oerlikon Mk.II in a single mount, mounted centerline in front of the bridge. It has 1,980 rounds of ammunition available. The mount can traverse horizontally at a rate of 75°/s and vertically at a rate of 75°/s. The gun has a belt capacity of 60 rounds and has a rate of fire of 450 rounds/min. With a stock crew, it can be reloaded in 5.2 seconds; with an aced crew, it can be reloaded in 4 seconds. Its maximum range against surface targets is roughly 2.1 km.
+
The primary armament consists of a single 20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II mounted fore, with 1,980 rounds of ammunition available for it. Stock, the mount can traverse horizontally and vertically at a rate of 64°/s; with the "Primary Armament Targeting" modification installed, this is increased to 75°/s. The gun has a magazine capacity of 60 rounds and a cyclic rate of fire of 450 rounds/min. With a stock crew, it can be reloaded in 5.2 seconds; with an aced crew, it can be reloaded in 4 seconds.  
  
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
+
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="25%"
! colspan="2" | '''Guidance for the Main Gun Turret'''
+
! colspan="2" | '''Primary Armament Guidance'''
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Horizontal !! Vertical
 
! Horizontal !! Vertical
Line 76: Line 81:
 
|}
 
|}
  
There are three choices of ammunition available:
+
There are three ammunition types available:
  
* Universal: {{Annotation|HEF-T|High-explosive fragmentation tracer}}/{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}/{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}
+
* Universal: {{Annotation|HEF-T|High-explosive fragmentation tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}
  
* 20 mm HE: {{Annotation|HEF-T|High-explosive fragmentation tracer}}/{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}/{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}/{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}
+
* 20 mm HE: {{Annotation|HEF-T|High-explosive fragmentation tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}
  
* 20 mm AP: {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}/{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}/{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}/{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}
+
* 20 mm AP: {{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP-T|Armour-piercing tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|HEF-I|High-explosive fragmentation incendiary}}
  
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
|-
 
|-
| Universal || 39 || 36 || 29 || 23 || 20 || 17
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| Universal || 35 || 33 || 26 || 21 || 18 || 15
 
|-
 
|-
| 20 mm HE || 39 || 36 || 29 || 23 || 20 || 17
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| 20 mm HE || 35 || 33 || 26 || 21 || 18 || 15
 
|-
 
|-
| 20 mm AP || 39 || 36 || 29 || 23 || 20 || 17
+
| 20 mm AP || 35 || 33 || 26 || 21 || 18 || 15
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
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<!--''Some ships are fitted with weapons of various calibres. Secondary armament is defined by the weapon chosen with the control <code>Select secondary weapon</code>. Evaluate the secondary armament and give advice on how to use them. Describe the ammunition available for the secondary armament. Provide recommendations on how to use them and which ammunition to choose. Remember that anti-air armament, even heavy calibre weapons, belong in the next section.''-->
 
<!--''Some ships are fitted with weapons of various calibres. Secondary armament is defined by the weapon chosen with the control <code>Select secondary weapon</code>. Evaluate the secondary armament and give advice on how to use them. Describe the ammunition available for the secondary armament. Provide recommendations on how to use them and which ammunition to choose. Remember that anti-air armament, even heavy calibre weapons, belong in the next section.''-->
  
In her secondary armament group, Vosper 2 series has two 12.7 mm Vickers Mk.V guns in a twin mount, mounted centerline behind the bridge. It has 5,200 rounds of ammunition available, 2,600 rounds per gun. The mount can traverse horizontally at a rate of 75°/s and vertically at a rate of 75°/s. Each gun has a belt capacity of 200 rounds, and they both have a stated rate of fire of 600 rounds/min, though, in actuality, the gun on the gunner's right side fires faster, at around 685 rounds/min, firing all 200 of its rounds in the time it takes the left side gun to fire about 175 rounds. With a stock crew, the guns can be reloaded in 10 seconds; with an aced crew, they can be reloaded in 5 seconds. Their maximum range against surface targets is roughly 2 km.
+
The secondary armament consists of two 12.7 mm Vickers Mk.V machineguns in a twin mount aft. There are 5,200 rounds of ammunition available for it, 2,600 rounds per gun. Stock, the mount can traverse horizontally and vertically at a rate of 64°/s; with the "Auxiliary Armament Targeting" modification installed, this is increased to 75°/s. Each gun has a belt capacity of 200 rounds and a stated rate of fire of 600 rounds/min, though in actuality, they fire at slightly different rates: the gun on the gunner's right side fires slightly faster, around 685 rounds/min, firing all 200 of its rounds in the time it takes the left side gun to fire about 175 rounds. With a stock crew, the guns can be reloaded in 10 seconds; with an aced crew, they can be reloaded in 5 seconds.  
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
! colspan="2" | '''Guidance for the Secondary Gun Turret'''
+
! colspan="2" | '''Secondary Armament Guidance'''
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Horizontal !! Vertical
 
! Horizontal !! Vertical
Line 115: Line 120:
 
|}
 
|}
  
There are three choices of ammunition available:
+
There are three ammunition types available:
  
* Universal: {{Annotation|T|Tracer}}/{{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}/{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}
+
* Universal: {{Annotation|T|Tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}{{-}}{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}
  
* 12.7 mm I: {{Annotation|T|Tracer}}/{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}/{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}/{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}/{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}
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* 12.7 mm I: {{Annotation|T|Tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}
  
* 12.7 mm API: {{Annotation|T|Tracer}}/{{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}/{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}/{{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}
+
* 12.7 mm API: {{Annotation|T|Tracer}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}{{-}}{{Annotation|I|Incendiary}}{{-}}{{Annotation|AP|Armour-piercing}}
  
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
! 10 m !! 100 m !! 500 m !! 1,000 m !! 1,500 m !! 2,000 m
 
|-
 
|-
| Universal || 27 || 26 || 23 || 20 || 18 || 16
+
| Universal || 24 || 24 || 21 || 18 || 16 || 15
 
|-
 
|-
| 12.7 mm I || 22 || 21 || 18 || 16 || 14 || 12
+
| 12.7 mm I || 20 || 19 || 16 || 14 || 12 || 11
 
|-
 
|-
| 12.7 mm API || 27 || 26 || 23 || 20 || 18 || 16
+
| 12.7 mm API || 24 || 24 || 21 || 18 || 16 || 15
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
  
 
=== Torpedo armament ===
 
=== Torpedo armament ===
{{main|Mark VIII}}
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{{main|Mk.VIII (533 mm)}}
 
<!--''Many ships are armed with torpedo launchers, and for some vessels such as boats, torpedoes are an extremely important means of defeating an opponent. Evaluate the position of the torpedo launchers, discuss the ammunition available, firing specifics such as dead zones, features of the torpedoes themselves, etc.''
 
<!--''Many ships are armed with torpedo launchers, and for some vessels such as boats, torpedoes are an extremely important means of defeating an opponent. Evaluate the position of the torpedo launchers, discuss the ammunition available, firing specifics such as dead zones, features of the torpedoes themselves, etc.''
  
 
If there is no torpedo armament, remove this section.-->
 
If there is no torpedo armament, remove this section.-->
  
Vosper 2 series has two torpedo tubes, one on each side of the bridge, and can carry two 533 mm Mk.VIII torpedoes. The torpedo tubes are pointed forwards, but they are angled outwards on each side and are fixed, requiring the boat to be turned in order to aim them.
+
{{PAGENAME}} can carry two 533 mm Mk.VIII torpedoes. The torpedo tubes are located on either side of the bridge, pointing forwards with the nose angled outwards.
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center" width="100%"
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! Torpedo Mode !! Mass (kg) !! Maximum speed in water (km/h) !! Travel distance (km) !! Depth stroke (m) !! Arming distance (m) !! Explosive type !! Explosive mass (kg) !! TNT equivalent (kg)
 
! Torpedo Mode !! Mass (kg) !! Maximum speed in water (km/h) !! Travel distance (km) !! Depth stroke (m) !! Arming distance (m) !! Explosive type !! Explosive mass (kg) !! TNT equivalent (kg)
 
|-
 
|-
| {{Annotation|No|'Torpedo Mode' modification uninstalled}} || 1566 || 84 || 4.57 || 1 || 50 || TNT || 327 || 327
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| {{Annotation|No|'Torpedo Mode' modification uninstalled}} || rowspan="2" | 1,566 || 50 || 4.57 || rowspan="2" | 1 || rowspan="2" | 50 || rowspan="2" | TNT || rowspan="2" | 327 || rowspan="2" | 327
 
|-
 
|-
| {{Annotation|Yes|'Torpedo Mode' modification installed}} || 1566 || 76 || 6.40 || 1 || 50 || TNT || 327 || 327
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| {{Annotation|Yes|'Torpedo Mode' modification installed}} || 76 || 6.40
 
|}
 
|}
  
The Torpedo Mode modification is available as a tier IV modification. Installing it has the following changes:  
+
The Torpedo Mode modification is available as a rank IV modification. Installing it will give the following changes:  
  
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
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<!--''Depth charges, mines, rocket launchers and missiles are also effective in skilled hands and can be an unexpected surprise for an opponent. Evaluate the ammunition of this type of armament and rate its performance in combat.''-->
 
<!--''Depth charges, mines, rocket launchers and missiles are also effective in skilled hands and can be an unexpected surprise for an opponent. Evaluate the ammunition of this type of armament and rate its performance in combat.''-->
  
[[File:Vosper 2 series DC order.png|thumb|Mk.VII depth charges numbered 1-4 according to the order in which they're dropped (click to expand).]]
+
[[File:{{PAGENAME}}_DC_Order.png|thumb|Mk.VII depth charges numbered according to their drop order (click to view a larger image).]]
  
Vosper 2 series can carry four Mk.VII depth charges just behind the bridge, two on each side facing outwards. The depth charges are dropped one at a time and drop in this order (see the image):
+
{{PAGENAME}} has four possible loadouts:  
  
# Portside, foremost
+
# 2x Mk.VIII torpedo
# Starboard side, foremost
+
# 4x Mk.VII depth charge
# Portside, aftmost
+
# 2x Mk.VIII torpedo, 4x Mk.VII depth charge
# Starboard side, aftmost
+
# Without load
 +
 
 +
The Mk.VII depth charges are carried around the bridge area, three on each side. They are dropped one at a time in the following order:
 +
 
 +
# Port, foremost
 +
# Starboard, foremost
 +
# Port, aftmost
 +
# Starboard, aftmost
  
 
Before spawning, the detonation time delay can be set anywhere between 3 seconds and 10 seconds.
 
Before spawning, the detonation time delay can be set anywhere between 3 seconds and 10 seconds.
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<!--''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don’t get try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).''-->
 
<!--''Describe the technique of using this ship, the characteristics of her use in a team and tips on strategy. Abstain from writing an entire guide – don’t get try to provide a single point of view, but give the reader food for thought. Talk about the most dangerous opponents for this vehicle and provide recommendations on fighting them. If necessary, note the specifics of playing with this vehicle in various modes (AB, RB, SB).''-->
  
Vosper 2 series is the first boat in the British naval tech tree to be fitted with the 20 mm Oerlikon Mk.II cannon. The Oerlikon Mk.II is a very common gun found all throughout the US and British naval tech trees, and it's a fantastic one at that. With both a very good damage output and a maximum range of about 2.1 km, the Oerlikon Mk.II is a nice change in pace compared to the armament of previous boats. Although they may not be as hard-hitting as the [[2 cm/65 C/38 (20 mm)]], another very common 20 mm gun, the Oerlikon Mk.II has a much larger belt size of 60 rounds, compared to the 40 rounds of the 2 cm/65 C/38. Even with a large capacity belt, it's still good practice to fire off any remaining ammunition after engagements to have the belt be at full capacity for the next engagement. With 1,980 rounds of ammunition, running out of ammunition shouldn't ever really be a concern.
+
Vosper 2 series is the first British vessel to come equipped with the 20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II cannon. A common weapon in both the British and US naval tech trees, it is a very good weapon and a nice change of pace from the low-calibre machineguns of previous vessels. The most direct comparison to the Oerlikon Mk.II cannon would be with the [[2 cm/65 C/38 (20 mm)|2 cm/65 C/38]].. Compared to the 2 cm/65 C/38, the Oerlikon Mk.II has lower per-hit damage and a slightly lower rate of fire, but it makes up for this by having a much larger belt capacity, 60 rounds compared to the 2 cm/65 C/38's 40 rounds. As for the secondaries, the two 12.7 mm Vickers Mk.V machineguns together are actually quite a lot better than the Oerlikon Mk.II cannon. They have a slightly higher damage output and, more importantly, can sustain fire for much longer before reloading. However, using the Vickers Mk.V guns requires exposing the rear hull compartments, dramatically reducing the survivability. Both armaments can't be manually controlled at the same time, so  simply just pick whichever gun you prefer and stick with it: use the Oerlikon Mk.II for safer and more consistent gameplay; use the Vickers Mk.V if you prefer greater offensive capability at the cost of survivability.
  
As for her secondaries, Vosper 2 series has a twin 12.7 mm Vickers Mk.V mount. Though lacking the punch of the Oerlikon Mk.II individually, the Vickers Mk.V guns have a better rate of fire, and, together, the two guns have roughly the same damage output as the single 20 mm. Still, the single Oerlikon Mk.II is the better weapon for two reasons: 1) the HE rounds have HE filler, which means that they start fires much more often, even compared to the Vickers Mk.V's incendiary rounds; 2) it can fire directly forwards. This second point is particularly important because it means that it can be fired without exposing the rear and sides of the boat, which greatly increases survivability.
+
If you prefer the Oerlikon Mk.II, try to always keep the hull pointed towards the enemy in order to block the rear hull compartments with the bow compartment. Vosper 2 series' crew is spread out in such a way such that all three compartments must be destroyed to knock it out, not including damage to the bridge. With the ammunition storages located far enough away from the stem of the hull, this makes bow-tanking a very viable strategy. Of course, angling the hull like this means the Vickers Mk.V guns won't be able to fire, but since they will be controlled by the AI gunners, they won't be of much use, so it's best to leave them targeting aircraft and forget about them. On the other hand, if you prefer the Vickers Mk.V guns, you will need to angle the hull to get the guns on target, but try to angle as little as possible beyond that. The aft gun mount actually has very good firing arcs, able to fire in all directions except ~23° to either side facing forwards. Try to angle just enough so that the Vickers Mk.V guns can fire, but no more than that to maximize survivability as much as possible. Since the Oerlikon Mk.II can still fire while using the Vickers Mk.V guns, let the AI gunners target surface targets as well as aircraft.
  
Aim to always keep the bow pointed directly towards the enemy, exposing as little of the sides as possible. This does mean that the rear gun mount won't be able to fire at all, but since it's controlled by the AI gunners, it generally isn't worth sacrificing survivability over. In most cases, it's better to just set the secondaries to target aircraft only and forget about them, relying only on the Oerlikon Mk.II and manually switching to the secondaries only if the 20 mm cannon is knocked out or is reloading.
+
Whichever playstyle you prefer, be flexible and always be prepared to switch to the other guns in a pinch, such as during reloads, in case one of them is knocked out, and so on. Additionally, with either gun, fire off any remaining ammunition after engagements if there isn't much ammunition left in the magazines. For the Oerlikon Mk.II, this is when there are less than 30 rounds left, and for the Vickers Mk.V guns, it is when there are less than 150 rounds left between the two guns. While the reloads for both guns aren't particularly long, it's better to avoid being forced to reload in the middle of an engagement in the first place.  
  
Both the Oerlikon Mk.II mount and Vickers Mk.V mount have very good firing arcs. The single Oerlikon Mk.II mount can fire roughly 157° to either side, centered directly forwards, and the twin Vickers Mk.V mount can fire roughly 157° to either side, this time centered directly rearwards. Though both guns have a maximum range of approximately 2 km, firing at targets further than 1.75 km or so is not recommended in most cases, since it will only serves to waste ammunition and can give away your own position.
+
;Ammunition
  
;Ammunition Choices
+
For the 20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II cannon, the best ammunition type is the 20 mm HE belt because it has the highest ratio of HE rounds to AP rounds, which makes it the most effective against both aircraft and the vast majority of surface targets. The 20 mm AP belt, with its higher amount of AP rounds, is better for dealing with armoured targets, and it can also be useful for damaging internals and any hull compartments that are blocked by already destroyed compartments. Take a majority of the HE belt for general use with a decent amount of the AP belt for specialized use.
  
For the 20 mm Oerlikon Mk.II, the best ammunition choice is the 20 mm HE because it has the highest ratio of HE rounds to AP rounds, meaning that it will be the most effective against both aircraft and surface targets. The 20 mm HE belt should be the main ammunition choice, but a few of the 20 mm AP belt should also be taken into battle for use against armoured targets. The AP belt is also useful against enemies heading directly bow-in. In this situation, HE rounds will only damage the bow compartment and, if that compartment is already destroyed, will deal only minimal damage. AP rounds can pass through the bow compartment and deal damage to the rest of the vessel.
+
For the 12.7 mm Vickers Mk.V machineguns, the 12.7 mm I belt has a significantly higher damage output than both the Universal and 12.7 mm API belts, both of which are about the same in terms of damage. Because it lacks the AP round, the 12.7 mm I belt has slightly less armour penetration than the Universal or API belts, but in general, anything that can stop the I round will also stop the AP round. Take only the 12.7 mm I belt and switch the Oerlikon Mk.II to deal with armoured targets.
 
 
For the 12.7 mm Vickers Mk.V, the 12.7 mm I belt is slightly better against both aircraft and surface targets compared to the 12.7 mm API belt. Though the AP rounds penetrate 5 mm more armour at point-blank than the I rounds, with such a small difference, the AP rounds won't be able to penetrate any armour that the I rounds can't. That said, the damage output difference between the I and API belt is so little that it's largely down to preference which to use.
 
  
 
;Torpedoes
 
;Torpedoes
  
The Mk.VIII torpedoes are a decent torpedo with above-average top speeds and warhead size. Its maximum range is more of less average compared to other torpedoes at this tier.
+
The Mk.VIII torpedoes are a decent torpedo with above-average above-average explosive mass and top speed. Its maximum range is more of less average compared to other similar torpedoes
  
The Torpedo Mode modification should never be installed. The higher maximum speed is much more valuable against the fast-moving boats of tier I and II, and the 4.57 km maximum range with the Torpedo Mode modification installed is more than enough for the small maps.
+
The Torpedo Mode modification should never be installed. The higher maximum speed is much more valuable against the small and fast boats of tier I and II, and the 4.57 km maximum range with the Torpedo Mode modification uninstalled is more than enough for the small maps.
  
Be aware though that, if the torpedo is unused, it can be shot at, and, if it's destroyed, there is a chance the entire boat can be destroyed along with it. For this reason, it's best to either use them early on or to not take them into battle at all.
+
If using torpedoes, be aware that, unless already launched, the torpedoes can be shot at, and, if destroyed, there is a chance for them detonate. To avoid this, fire the torpedoes early on or simply don't take them at all. Torpedoes are a situational weapon, so it's largely down to personal preference whether you want to take them or not.
  
 
;Depth Charges
 
;Depth Charges
  
Being anti-submarine weapons and with the present lack of submarines in the game, there is practically no reason to use them. While they can be used against surface targets, this is extremely situational. Sailing up right next to a slower target and dropping a depth charge can lead to some success, though again, this is very situational. If attempting this, remember the order in which the depth charges drop and that there is no reason to use any depth charge activation time setting above the minimum 3 seconds, since higher delay times means the depth charge will sink further, and thus away, from the target. Again, it should be reiterated that this is very situational.  
+
There is no practical reason to use depth charges on any naval vessel in the game. Although they usually result in a one-hit kill if used properly, they are extremely situational and are actually a liability in most cases, since they essentially act as exposed ammo racks before they're dropped.
  
There is no practical reason to take them into battle, especially since, if they're not dropped, they essentially become unarmoured ammo racks.  
+
With some luck though, sailing up right next to a slower target and dropping a depth charge can lead to some success. If attempting this, remember the depth charge drop order and set the depth charge time delay to the minimum 3 seconds, since any higher time delay will only mean that the depth charge will sink further, and thus away, from the target. Again, this is extremely situational, and you will be better off not using depth charges at all.
 +
 
 +
The recommended loadouts are, depending on personal preference:
 +
 
 +
* 2x Mk.XII torpedo; or
 +
* Without load
  
 
===Modules===
 
===Modules===
 
+
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
 
 
! Tier
 
! Tier
 
! colspan="1" | Seakeeping
 
! colspan="1" | Seakeeping
Line 236: Line 250:
 
| I
 
| I
 
| Dry-Docking
 
| Dry-Docking
| Tool Set ||
+
| Tool Set
| 20 mm HE || 12.7 mm I ||
+
|
 +
| 20 mm HE
 +
| 12.7 mm I
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
 
| II
 
| II
 
| Rudder Replacement
 
| Rudder Replacement
| Fire Protection System || Smokescreen
+
| Fire Protection System
| 20 mm AP || 12.7 mm API || Auxiliary Armament Targeting
+
| Smokescreen
 +
| 20 mm AP
 +
| 12.7 mm API
 +
| Auxiliary Armament Targeting
 
|-
 
|-
 
| III
 
| III
 
| Propeller Replacement
 
| Propeller Replacement
| ||  
+
|
| || Depth Charges || {{Annotation|Primary Armament Targeting|Requires 'Auxiliary Armament Targeting'}}
+
|
 +
|
 +
| Depth Charges
 +
| Primary Armament Targeting
 
|-
 
|-
 
| IV
 
| IV
 
| Engine Maintenance
 
| Engine Maintenance
| New Pumps ||
+
| New Pumps
| Artillery Support || Torpedo Mode
+
|
 +
| Artillery Support
 +
| Torpedo Mode
 +
|
 
|-
 
|-
 
|}
 
|}
Line 261: Line 287:
 
'''Pros:'''
 
'''Pros:'''
  
* Powerful 20 mm cannon, large belt capacity (60 rounds)
+
* Strong armament, great damage output
* Great firing arcs
+
* Good manoeuvrability
* Good torpedoes, above-average maximum speed and explosive mass
+
* Good torpedoes: above-average maximum speed and explosive charge
  
 
'''Cons:'''
 
'''Cons:'''
  
* Can be hull-broken by 4-inch guns
+
* Relatively low survivability
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
 
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ship in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article.''-->
 
<!--''Describe the history of the creation and combat usage of the ship in more detail than in the introduction. If the historical reference turns out to be too big, take it to a separate article, taking a link to an article about the vehicle and adding a block "/ History" (example: <nowiki>https://wiki.warthunder.com/(Vehicle-name)/History</nowiki>) and add a link to it here using the <code>main</code> template. Be sure to reference text and sources by using <code><nowiki><ref></nowiki></code>, as well as adding them at the end of the article.''-->
  
During the 1930s, the Admiralty tried to reestablish the coastal boat flotillas it once possessed during the first World War. British boatbuilding company Vosper & Company vied for the contract but lost both times in 1935 and 1936, the contract to build the first coastal boats since WWI going instead to the British Power Boat Company. Vospers continued in their effort to receive a contract from the Admiralty for their boats but to no avail. At the time, though, the Admiralty had unofficially suggested that future contracts would only be awarded for boats that were able to reach 40 knots and that were armed with two 21-inch torpedoes as well as light anti-aircraft guns. With these specifications, Vospers took the risk and preemptively began development on a new motor torpedo boat.
+
During the 1930s, the Admiralty tried to reestablish the coastal boat flotillas it once commanded during the First World War. British boatbuilding company Vosper & Company competed for the contract but lost both times in 1935 and 1936, the lucrative contract to build the first coastal boats since WWI going instead to their rival, British Power Boat Company. In response to this, Vosper developed a faster and more seaworthy design than that of their rivals'. In the following months, Vospers proposed their design to the Admiralty multiple times, but ultimately, they could not secure a contract to build a prototype. Around this time, though, the Admiralty officials had unofficially suggested that future contracts would only be awarded for vessels that could surpass 40 knots in speed and that were armed with two 21-inch torpedoes as well as an assortment of light anti-aircraft guns. Additionally, it was known from previous specifications that the Admiralty wanted a vessel capable of operating in open waters in at least Force 5 winds and that was fast enough to cross the English Channel during the night. With these unofficial specifications, Vospers preemptively began development on a new vessel as a private venture of the company's own expense.
 +
 
 +
Immediately, it was decided that the private venture vessel had to be larger than the existing 60 ft British Power Boat MTB in order to meet the specifications. Additionally, engines more powerful than the Napier Sea Lion engines used in the BPB design were required. With none available domestically, Vospers looked to the Asso 1000 engine by Italian manufacturer Isotta-Fraschini. Though in limited supply, the Asso 1000 was specifically designed for marine craft and provided the necessary power: 1150 bhp at 1500 rpm maximum and 950 bhp at 1660 rpm continuous. In late 1936, Vospers completed their design. It called for three Asso 1000 engines and two in-house 75 bhp auxiliary engines, the latter of which could be coupled to the outer shafts to give a total maximum power of 3600 bhp. The hull-form was a hard chine planing design and was 69½ ft in length with a displacement of about 33 tons. The prototype was laid down before the end of the year and completed in May 1937.  
  
In 1937, Vospers completed their prototype. It was 69.5 feet long and had a hard chine hull design, like many boats at the time, which produced hydrodynamic lift at high speeds, lifting the hull out of the water to reduce drag. It was powered by three petrol engines from Italian manufacturer Isotta Fraschini, each driving a single shaft, together producing 3,600 bhp. The prototype displaced 33 tons, and, in internal trials, it reached 43.7 knots loaded and 47.8 knots unloaded. For its torpedo armament, many different arrangements were tried, but it was eventually decided that they should be mounted on either side of the bridge, pointed forwards and angled outwards. This torpedo placement was uncommon at the time but would become the standard placement on Allied motor torpedo boats during WWII. For its gun armament, Vospers experimented with various combinations of 0.303 calibre machine guns, 0.50 calibre machine guns, and a 20 mm autocannon. The prototype went on trials for the Admiralty in 1938, after which it was purchased and designated MTB 102. In 1939, MTB 102 went on trials against a competing design by British Power Boat Co. Vospers won, and, subsequently, its design was selected to be the newest line of Coastal Forces motor torpedo boats.  
+
Upon completion, the prototype underwent internal trials where she achieved a top speed of 47.8 knots unloaded and 43.7 knots loaded. Satisfied with these results, Vospers presented the prototype to the Admiralty for official trials against the 60 ft British Power Boat MTB. The prototype fared favorably, and after much deliberation, the Admiralty decided to purchase the vessel from Vospers. She was commissioned in May 1938 as MTB 102 and sent to HMS Vernon for further evaluation. Up to this point, MTB 102 had not actually been fitted with torpedoes, so during her time at HMS Vernon, many torpedo configurations were tested. These included tried-and-true yet outdated stern projection systems as seen on the 60 ft British Power Boat MTB and earlier WWI designs as well as a unique arrangement of a single launcher in the stem of the hull with a reload carried internally. These all had their own issues, and none were found to be satisfactory. Ultimately, it was decided that MTB 102 should have two torpedo tubes mounted on either side of the bridge, pointed forwards with the nose angled outwards, an uncommon configuration for the time. Around this time, the gun armament had also not yet been decided, so various configurations were also experimented with, including combinations of 0.303 in and 0.50 in machineguns and a 20 mm autocannon.  
  
The boats built following MTB 102 all shared its design, although the hull was lengthened to 70 feet. In 1940, with the entrance of Italy into WWII, engines from Isotta Fraschini could no longer be obtained and subsequent boats had to be fitted with much weaker petrol engines (1,800 bhp total) from American manufacturer Hall Scott as a stopgap measure until they could be upgraded with more powerful petrol engines from Packard, though this wasn't until 1941. In total, 28 of the 32 planned 70 ft Vosper MTBs were completed:
+
Impressed with MTB 102, the Admiralty placed an order for four more vessels on 15th August 1938, Vospers' first-ever Admiralty contract. These vessels, and any ordered after, all shared the same overall design as MTB 102, although with several minor changes such as the hull being lengthened to 70 ft 3¼ in. After 1940, with the entrance of Italy into the war, Isotta-Fraschini engines could no longer be obtained, and subsequent boats had to be fitted with much weaker American Hall Scott engines — only 1800 bhp total as a stopgap measure until they could be upgraded with more powerful Packard engines, though this wasn't until 1941 as supply was limited. Of the 32 planned 70 ft Vosper MTBs, 28 were completed and are as follows:
  
* MTBs 20-23: Ordered 15th August 1938, all completed by December 1939. MTBs 20, 21, and 23 were sent to the Romanian Navy. MTB 22 served with the 4th MTB Flotilla and survived to the end of the war.
+
* MTBs 20-23: Ordered 15th August 1938, all were completed by December 1939. MTBs 20, 21, and 23 were sold to the Romanian Navy. MTB 22 served with the 4th MTB Flotilla and survived to the end of the war and was sold in 1945.
  
* MTBs 29-30: Ordered on 8th September 1938, all completed by July 1940. Both served with the 4th MTB Flotilla. MTB 29 was lost in a collision with a German E-boat on 6th October 1942, and MTB 30 struck a mine and was lost on 18th December 1942.
+
* MTBs 29-30: Ordered on 8th September 1938 (including a Thornycroft design, MTB 28) as replacements for the three boats sold to Romania, all were completed by July 1940. Both MTB 29 and 30 served with the 4th MTB Flotilla. MTB 29 was lost in a collision with a German E-boat on 6th October 1942, and MTB 30 struck a mine and was lost on 18th December 1942.
  
* MTBs 31-40: Ordered on 27th September 1939, 6 completed by May 1941. MTBs 33, 37, 39, and 40 were bombed by German aircraft before completion between 1940 and 1941. The completed boats survived to the end of the war.
+
* MTBs 31-40: Ordered on 27th September 1939, six were completed by May 1941. MTBs 33, 37, 39, and 40 were bombed by German aircraft while under construction in 1940-41. The completed boats survived to the end of the war and were sold in 1945-46.
  
* MTBs 57-66: Ordered on 26th February 1940, all completed by April 1942. MTB 61 was stranded during an attack on 9th May 1943, and MTBs 63 and 64 were lost after collisions with friendly MTBs on 2nd April 1943. The remaining boats were sold in 1944.
+
* MTBs 57-66: Ordered on 26th February 1940, all were completed by April 1942. MTB 61 was stranded during an attack on 9th May 1943, and MTBs 63 and 64 were lost after collisions with friendly MTBs on 2nd April 1943. The remaining boats were sold in 1944.
  
* MTBs 69-70: Ordered in April 1940, both completed by June 1940. Both only received two engines. Both served with HMS Beehive at Felixstowe and survived to the end of the war.
+
* MTBs 69-70: Ordered in April 1940, both were completed by June 1940 and received only two engines. Both were stationed at HMS Beehive, Felixstowe and survived to the end of the war and were sold in 1945-46.
  
* MTBs 218-221: Ordered on 7th December 1940, all completed by September 1941. MTBs 218 struck a mine and was lost on 18th August 1942, and MTB 220 was sunk by German E-boats on 13th May 1942. MTBs 219 and 221 survived to the end of the war. MTB 221 was sold in 1945. MTB 219 was transferred to the Sea Cadet Corps at Staines in 1945 and was converted to a houseboat in 1948.
+
* MTBs 218-221: Ordered on 7th December 1940, all were completed by September 1941. MTB 218 struck a mine and was lost on 18th August 1942, and MTB 220 was sunk by German E-boats on 13th May 1942. MTBs 219 and 221 survived to the end of the war. MTB 221 was sold in 1945, and MTB 219 was transferred to the Sea Cadet Corps at Staines in 1945 and was converted to a houseboat in 1948.
  
Modifications to the original 70 ft Vosper MTB design would lead to the development of the 72 ft Vosper MTB and 73 ft Vosper MTB.
+
The 70 ft Vosper MTB design continued to receive many improvements and modifications order-to-order and would lead to the development of the 72 ft Vosper MTB and 73 ft Vosper MTB.
  
 
== Media ==
 
== Media ==
Line 307: Line 335:
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''-->
 
* ''links to approximate analogues of other nations and research trees.''-->
  
 +
* [[MTB Vosper (Family)]]
 
* {{Specs-Link|uk_mtb_vosper_1series}}
 
* {{Specs-Link|uk_mtb_vosper_1series}}
* {{Specs-Link|uk_mtb_1series}}
+
* {{Specs-Link|it_a1_vosper}}
* {{Specs-Link|uk_mtb_2series}}
 
  
 
== External links ==
 
== External links ==
Line 318: Line 346:
 
* ''other literature.''-->
 
* ''other literature.''-->
  
 +
* [http://cfv.org.uk/research/boat/database Coastal Forces Veterans - Boat Database]
 
* [http://www.ww2ships.com/britain/gb-sc-002-b.shtml ww2ships.com - 70' Vosper Motor Torpedo Boat]
 
* [http://www.ww2ships.com/britain/gb-sc-002-b.shtml ww2ships.com - 70' Vosper Motor Torpedo Boat]
 
* [https://www.unithistories.com/units_british/RN_MTBs.html#MTB_Boats unithistories.com - Royal Navy Coastal Forces 1940-1945]
 
* [https://www.unithistories.com/units_british/RN_MTBs.html#MTB_Boats unithistories.com - Royal Navy Coastal Forces 1940-1945]
 
* [http://www.naval-history.net/WW2BritishLosses3Coastal.htm naval-history.net - British vessels lost at sea in World War 2 - MGB, MTB, SGB, ML, etc] - originally published in British Vessels Lost at Sea, 1935-45, His Majesty's Stationary Office, 1947
 
* [http://www.naval-history.net/WW2BritishLosses3Coastal.htm naval-history.net - British vessels lost at sea in World War 2 - MGB, MTB, SGB, ML, etc] - originally published in British Vessels Lost at Sea, 1935-45, His Majesty's Stationary Office, 1947
* [http://www.harwichanddovercourt.co.uk/warships/torpedo-boats/ harwichanddovercourt.co.uk - Torpedo Boats - World War 2]
+
 
* [https://uboat.net/allies/warships/class.html?ID=640 uboat.net - Vosper 70 feet-type class]
+
===Bibliography===
 +
 
 +
* Lambert, J., & Ross, A. (1993). ''Allied Coastal Forces of World War II Volume II: Vosper MTBs & U.S. Elcos'' (pp. 21-32). London, England: Conway Maritime Press. ISBN 0-85177-602-7.
  
 
{{Britain boats}}
 
{{Britain boats}}

Revision as of 21:03, 7 November 2020

VTOL | Rank 5 USA
AV-8A Harrier Pack
MTB Vosper(2)
uk_mtb_vosper_2series.png
MTB Vosper(2)
Research:4 000 Specs-Card-Exp.png
Purchase:2 100 Specs-Card-Lion.png
Show in game
This page is about the British motor torpedo boat MTB Vosper(2). For other versions, see MTB Vosper (Family).

Description

GarageImage MTB Vosper(2).jpg


The MTB Vosper 2 series is a rank I British motor torpedo boat with a battle rating of 1.7 (AB/RB/SB). It was introduced in Update 1.83 "Masters of the Sea" as part of the British fleet closed beta test.

General info

Survivability and armour

MTB Vosper(2) internals (starboard). Note the ammunition storage below the bridge.

MTB Vosper(2) has the following armour layout:

While the gun shield may stop low-calibre machineguns, heavy machineguns and cannons will have no trouble with them at any range. The hull and superstructure will not stop any sort of gunfire.

MTB Vosper(2) can be hull-broken by any round with a large enough diameter and a large enough explosive mass. In general, this is limited to HE rounds fired from guns greater than 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter. Hull-break triggers when such a round hits and destroys any hull compartment — or in some cases, the bridge — upon which the rest of the boat is destroyed. At MTB Vosper(2)' battle rating, there is only one gun capable of hull-breaking her:

The hull is split into three compartments. The first compartment starts at the bow and ends at the forward gun mount; the second ends in front of the aft gun mount, between the fuel tanks and the engines; and the third ends at the stern.

MTB Vosper(2) has one ammunition storage that holds ammunition for both the primary armament and secondary armament. It is located directly below the bridge, just above the waterline. Destroying it will instantly destroy the boat.

With a crew complement of 12, MTB Vosper(2)' overall survivability is average.

Mobility

Mobility Characteristics
Game Mode Upgrade Status Maximum Speed (km/h) Turn Time (s) Turn Radius (m)
Forward Reverse
AB Stock 76 26 ~23.68 ~47.11
Upgraded 104 35 ~16.33 ~31.04
RB/SB Stock 64 22 ~26.53 ~53.95
Upgraded 74 25 ~21.99 ~43.75

MTB Vosper(2) has a displacement of 38 tons.

When moving at high speeds, either forwards or backwards, MTB Vosper(2) will drift slightly to starboard without any player input.

Armament

Primary armament

The primary armament consists of a single 20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II mounted fore, with 1,980 rounds of ammunition available for it. Stock, the mount can traverse horizontally and vertically at a rate of 64°/s; with the "Primary Armament Targeting" modification installed, this is increased to 75°/s. The gun has a magazine capacity of 60 rounds and a cyclic rate of fire of 450 rounds/min. With a stock crew, it can be reloaded in 5.2 seconds; with an aced crew, it can be reloaded in 4 seconds.

Primary Armament Guidance
Horizontal Vertical
±180° -10°/+60°

There are three ammunition types available:

  • Universal: HEF-T · HEF-I · AP-T
  • 20 mm HE: HEF-T · HEF-I · AP-T · HEF-I
  • 20 mm AP: AP-T · AP-T · AP-T · HEF-I
Penetration Statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
Universal 35 33 26 21 18 15
20 mm HE 35 33 26 21 18 15
20 mm AP 35 33 26 21 18 15

Secondary armament

The secondary armament consists of two 12.7 mm Vickers Mk.V machineguns in a twin mount aft. There are 5,200 rounds of ammunition available for it, 2,600 rounds per gun. Stock, the mount can traverse horizontally and vertically at a rate of 64°/s; with the "Auxiliary Armament Targeting" modification installed, this is increased to 75°/s. Each gun has a belt capacity of 200 rounds and a stated rate of fire of 600 rounds/min, though in actuality, they fire at slightly different rates: the gun on the gunner's right side fires slightly faster, around 685 rounds/min, firing all 200 of its rounds in the time it takes the left side gun to fire about 175 rounds. With a stock crew, the guns can be reloaded in 10 seconds; with an aced crew, they can be reloaded in 5 seconds.

Secondary Armament Guidance
Horizontal Vertical
±180° -10°/+70°

There are three ammunition types available:

  • Universal: T · AP · I
  • 12.7 mm I: T · I · I · I · I
  • 12.7 mm API: T · AP · I · AP
Penetration Statistics
Ammunition Penetration @ 0° Angle of Attack (mm)
10 m 100 m 500 m 1,000 m 1,500 m 2,000 m
Universal 24 24 21 18 16 15
12.7 mm I 20 19 16 14 12 11
12.7 mm API 24 24 21 18 16 15

Torpedo armament

Main article: Mk.VIII (533 mm)

MTB Vosper(2) can carry two 533 mm Mk.VIII torpedoes. The torpedo tubes are located on either side of the bridge, pointing forwards with the nose angled outwards.

Torpedo Characteristics
Torpedo Mode Mass (kg) Maximum speed in water (km/h) Travel distance (km) Depth stroke (m) Arming distance (m) Explosive type Explosive mass (kg) TNT equivalent (kg)
No 1,566 50 4.57 1 50 TNT 327 327
Yes 76 6.40

The Torpedo Mode modification is available as a rank IV modification. Installing it will give the following changes:

Torpedo Mode Specification Changes
Max Distance (m) Max Speed (m/s)
+1830 -1

Special armament

Main article: Mk.VII depth charge
Mk.VII depth charges numbered according to their drop order (click to view a larger image).

MTB Vosper(2) has four possible loadouts:

  1. 2x Mk.VIII torpedo
  2. 4x Mk.VII depth charge
  3. 2x Mk.VIII torpedo, 4x Mk.VII depth charge
  4. Without load

The Mk.VII depth charges are carried around the bridge area, three on each side. They are dropped one at a time in the following order:

  1. Port, foremost
  2. Starboard, foremost
  3. Port, aftmost
  4. Starboard, aftmost

Before spawning, the detonation time delay can be set anywhere between 3 seconds and 10 seconds.

Depth Charge Characteristics
Mass (kg) Explosive Type Explosive Mass (kg) TNT Equivalent (kg)
196 TNT 130 130

Usage in battles

Vosper 2 series is the first British vessel to come equipped with the 20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II cannon. A common weapon in both the British and US naval tech trees, it is a very good weapon and a nice change of pace from the low-calibre machineguns of previous vessels. The most direct comparison to the Oerlikon Mk.II cannon would be with the 2 cm/65 C/38.. Compared to the 2 cm/65 C/38, the Oerlikon Mk.II has lower per-hit damage and a slightly lower rate of fire, but it makes up for this by having a much larger belt capacity, 60 rounds compared to the 2 cm/65 C/38's 40 rounds. As for the secondaries, the two 12.7 mm Vickers Mk.V machineguns together are actually quite a lot better than the Oerlikon Mk.II cannon. They have a slightly higher damage output and, more importantly, can sustain fire for much longer before reloading. However, using the Vickers Mk.V guns requires exposing the rear hull compartments, dramatically reducing the survivability. Both armaments can't be manually controlled at the same time, so simply just pick whichever gun you prefer and stick with it: use the Oerlikon Mk.II for safer and more consistent gameplay; use the Vickers Mk.V if you prefer greater offensive capability at the cost of survivability.

If you prefer the Oerlikon Mk.II, try to always keep the hull pointed towards the enemy in order to block the rear hull compartments with the bow compartment. Vosper 2 series' crew is spread out in such a way such that all three compartments must be destroyed to knock it out, not including damage to the bridge. With the ammunition storages located far enough away from the stem of the hull, this makes bow-tanking a very viable strategy. Of course, angling the hull like this means the Vickers Mk.V guns won't be able to fire, but since they will be controlled by the AI gunners, they won't be of much use, so it's best to leave them targeting aircraft and forget about them. On the other hand, if you prefer the Vickers Mk.V guns, you will need to angle the hull to get the guns on target, but try to angle as little as possible beyond that. The aft gun mount actually has very good firing arcs, able to fire in all directions except ~23° to either side facing forwards. Try to angle just enough so that the Vickers Mk.V guns can fire, but no more than that to maximize survivability as much as possible. Since the Oerlikon Mk.II can still fire while using the Vickers Mk.V guns, let the AI gunners target surface targets as well as aircraft.

Whichever playstyle you prefer, be flexible and always be prepared to switch to the other guns in a pinch, such as during reloads, in case one of them is knocked out, and so on. Additionally, with either gun, fire off any remaining ammunition after engagements if there isn't much ammunition left in the magazines. For the Oerlikon Mk.II, this is when there are less than 30 rounds left, and for the Vickers Mk.V guns, it is when there are less than 150 rounds left between the two guns. While the reloads for both guns aren't particularly long, it's better to avoid being forced to reload in the middle of an engagement in the first place.

Ammunition

For the 20 mm/70 Oerlikon Mk.II cannon, the best ammunition type is the 20 mm HE belt because it has the highest ratio of HE rounds to AP rounds, which makes it the most effective against both aircraft and the vast majority of surface targets. The 20 mm AP belt, with its higher amount of AP rounds, is better for dealing with armoured targets, and it can also be useful for damaging internals and any hull compartments that are blocked by already destroyed compartments. Take a majority of the HE belt for general use with a decent amount of the AP belt for specialized use.

For the 12.7 mm Vickers Mk.V machineguns, the 12.7 mm I belt has a significantly higher damage output than both the Universal and 12.7 mm API belts, both of which are about the same in terms of damage. Because it lacks the AP round, the 12.7 mm I belt has slightly less armour penetration than the Universal or API belts, but in general, anything that can stop the I round will also stop the AP round. Take only the 12.7 mm I belt and switch the Oerlikon Mk.II to deal with armoured targets.

Torpedoes

The Mk.VIII torpedoes are a decent torpedo with above-average above-average explosive mass and top speed. Its maximum range is more of less average compared to other similar torpedoes

The Torpedo Mode modification should never be installed. The higher maximum speed is much more valuable against the small and fast boats of tier I and II, and the 4.57 km maximum range with the Torpedo Mode modification uninstalled is more than enough for the small maps.

If using torpedoes, be aware that, unless already launched, the torpedoes can be shot at, and, if destroyed, there is a chance for them detonate. To avoid this, fire the torpedoes early on or simply don't take them at all. Torpedoes are a situational weapon, so it's largely down to personal preference whether you want to take them or not.

Depth Charges

There is no practical reason to use depth charges on any naval vessel in the game. Although they usually result in a one-hit kill if used properly, they are extremely situational and are actually a liability in most cases, since they essentially act as exposed ammo racks before they're dropped.

With some luck though, sailing up right next to a slower target and dropping a depth charge can lead to some success. If attempting this, remember the depth charge drop order and set the depth charge time delay to the minimum 3 seconds, since any higher time delay will only mean that the depth charge will sink further, and thus away, from the target. Again, this is extremely situational, and you will be better off not using depth charges at all.

The recommended loadouts are, depending on personal preference:

  • 2x Mk.XII torpedo; or
  • Without load

Modules

Tier Seakeeping Unsinkability Firepower
I Dry-Docking Tool Set 20 mm HE 12.7 mm I
II Rudder Replacement Fire Protection System Smokescreen 20 mm AP 12.7 mm API Auxiliary Armament Targeting
III Propeller Replacement Depth Charges Primary Armament Targeting
IV Engine Maintenance New Pumps Artillery Support Torpedo Mode

Pros and cons

Pros:

  • Strong armament, great damage output
  • Good manoeuvrability
  • Good torpedoes: above-average maximum speed and explosive charge

Cons:

  • Relatively low survivability

History

During the 1930s, the Admiralty tried to reestablish the coastal boat flotillas it once commanded during the First World War. British boatbuilding company Vosper & Company competed for the contract but lost both times in 1935 and 1936, the lucrative contract to build the first coastal boats since WWI going instead to their rival, British Power Boat Company. In response to this, Vosper developed a faster and more seaworthy design than that of their rivals'. In the following months, Vospers proposed their design to the Admiralty multiple times, but ultimately, they could not secure a contract to build a prototype. Around this time, though, the Admiralty officials had unofficially suggested that future contracts would only be awarded for vessels that could surpass 40 knots in speed and that were armed with two 21-inch torpedoes as well as an assortment of light anti-aircraft guns. Additionally, it was known from previous specifications that the Admiralty wanted a vessel capable of operating in open waters in at least Force 5 winds and that was fast enough to cross the English Channel during the night. With these unofficial specifications, Vospers preemptively began development on a new vessel as a private venture of the company's own expense.

Immediately, it was decided that the private venture vessel had to be larger than the existing 60 ft British Power Boat MTB in order to meet the specifications. Additionally, engines more powerful than the Napier Sea Lion engines used in the BPB design were required. With none available domestically, Vospers looked to the Asso 1000 engine by Italian manufacturer Isotta-Fraschini. Though in limited supply, the Asso 1000 was specifically designed for marine craft and provided the necessary power: 1150 bhp at 1500 rpm maximum and 950 bhp at 1660 rpm continuous. In late 1936, Vospers completed their design. It called for three Asso 1000 engines and two in-house 75 bhp auxiliary engines, the latter of which could be coupled to the outer shafts to give a total maximum power of 3600 bhp. The hull-form was a hard chine planing design and was 69½ ft in length with a displacement of about 33 tons. The prototype was laid down before the end of the year and completed in May 1937.

Upon completion, the prototype underwent internal trials where she achieved a top speed of 47.8 knots unloaded and 43.7 knots loaded. Satisfied with these results, Vospers presented the prototype to the Admiralty for official trials against the 60 ft British Power Boat MTB. The prototype fared favorably, and after much deliberation, the Admiralty decided to purchase the vessel from Vospers. She was commissioned in May 1938 as MTB 102 and sent to HMS Vernon for further evaluation. Up to this point, MTB 102 had not actually been fitted with torpedoes, so during her time at HMS Vernon, many torpedo configurations were tested. These included tried-and-true yet outdated stern projection systems as seen on the 60 ft British Power Boat MTB and earlier WWI designs as well as a unique arrangement of a single launcher in the stem of the hull with a reload carried internally. These all had their own issues, and none were found to be satisfactory. Ultimately, it was decided that MTB 102 should have two torpedo tubes mounted on either side of the bridge, pointed forwards with the nose angled outwards, an uncommon configuration for the time. Around this time, the gun armament had also not yet been decided, so various configurations were also experimented with, including combinations of 0.303 in and 0.50 in machineguns and a 20 mm autocannon.

Impressed with MTB 102, the Admiralty placed an order for four more vessels on 15th August 1938, Vospers' first-ever Admiralty contract. These vessels, and any ordered after, all shared the same overall design as MTB 102, although with several minor changes such as the hull being lengthened to 70 ft 3¼ in. After 1940, with the entrance of Italy into the war, Isotta-Fraschini engines could no longer be obtained, and subsequent boats had to be fitted with much weaker American Hall Scott engines — only 1800 bhp total — as a stopgap measure until they could be upgraded with more powerful Packard engines, though this wasn't until 1941 as supply was limited. Of the 32 planned 70 ft Vosper MTBs, 28 were completed and are as follows:

  • MTBs 20-23: Ordered 15th August 1938, all were completed by December 1939. MTBs 20, 21, and 23 were sold to the Romanian Navy. MTB 22 served with the 4th MTB Flotilla and survived to the end of the war and was sold in 1945.
  • MTBs 29-30: Ordered on 8th September 1938 (including a Thornycroft design, MTB 28) as replacements for the three boats sold to Romania, all were completed by July 1940. Both MTB 29 and 30 served with the 4th MTB Flotilla. MTB 29 was lost in a collision with a German E-boat on 6th October 1942, and MTB 30 struck a mine and was lost on 18th December 1942.
  • MTBs 31-40: Ordered on 27th September 1939, six were completed by May 1941. MTBs 33, 37, 39, and 40 were bombed by German aircraft while under construction in 1940-41. The completed boats survived to the end of the war and were sold in 1945-46.
  • MTBs 57-66: Ordered on 26th February 1940, all were completed by April 1942. MTB 61 was stranded during an attack on 9th May 1943, and MTBs 63 and 64 were lost after collisions with friendly MTBs on 2nd April 1943. The remaining boats were sold in 1944.
  • MTBs 69-70: Ordered in April 1940, both were completed by June 1940 and received only two engines. Both were stationed at HMS Beehive, Felixstowe and survived to the end of the war and were sold in 1945-46.
  • MTBs 218-221: Ordered on 7th December 1940, all were completed by September 1941. MTB 218 struck a mine and was lost on 18th August 1942, and MTB 220 was sunk by German E-boats on 13th May 1942. MTBs 219 and 221 survived to the end of the war. MTB 221 was sold in 1945, and MTB 219 was transferred to the Sea Cadet Corps at Staines in 1945 and was converted to a houseboat in 1948.

The 70 ft Vosper MTB design continued to receive many improvements and modifications order-to-order and would lead to the development of the 72 ft Vosper MTB and 73 ft Vosper MTB.

Media

GEN LIVE WT 1 HPL.jpg

See also

External links

Bibliography

  • Lambert, J., & Ross, A. (1993). Allied Coastal Forces of World War II Volume II: Vosper MTBs & U.S. Elcos (pp. 21-32). London, England: Conway Maritime Press. ISBN 0-85177-602-7.


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