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A few years after World War II, the USSR began producing the T-54 tank. Thousands of these tanks were produced and saw action across the globe, from Europe to Africa. Even though half a century has passed since then, T-54s are still in service today. Tanks from this family are also featured in War Thunder, appearing across multiple ground vehicle tech trees.
In the early history of tanks, engineers would often use layouts with multiple cannons to improve the total firepower. But the recent War Thunder addition stands out even among those designs since it has no less than three barrels side by side! We’re talking about a Soviet heavy tank destroyer, the KV-7.
Germany started the Second World War with no heavy combat aircraft at hand. Still, they’d been trying to build a long-range bomber capable of reaching targets in Great Britain and the Soviet Union since 1934. After a few unsuccessful attempts, the He-177 Greif took to the skies on November 19, 1939.
Like many successful aircraft, the story of the U-2 (short for ‘training aircraft 2’) began with its engine. In the 1920s, flight crews of the fledgling Soviet Union were training on outdated planes, and the lack of domestic engines forced the country to buy decommissioned engines from abroad. By July 1926, with the development of the excellent domestic M-11 engine, Polikarpov finally had the chance to design a new training aircraft. Drawing from his previous experience, he completed the design in just a few months. Just two years later, on January 7, 1928, the U-2 took its first flight. This was the plane we now recognize: a plywood biplane with a top speed slower than the stall speed of the Bf 109 fighter, yet free from many of the issues usually seen in new designs, and ready to show its capabilities.
The Shooting Range 428. In this episode:
Metal Beasts: Recon Master from Japan
Pages of History: The American Skyray
Round Study: Maverick Missile Family
Hotline: What's the role of the secondary inlets on the MiG-29 series in mid-air? What's the fastest plane in the game at the moment? Can satellite bombs be used to destroy bases in air realistic and simulator battles? What's the difference between Pzgr. and Pzgr.39 on tiger tank? What are the different bomb types best used for? What bomb type is best against ground vehicles?
The Shooting Range 429. In this episode:
Metal Beasts: The Swiss Army Knife
Pages of History: The T-34 in the Cold War
Challenge: How Many Frags Can We Get with Satellite Bombs?
Hotline: What's the best loadout for the squadron A-4E Early? What's the heaviest light tank? What is the plane with the biggest fuel capacity in the game? Which aircraft (plane or helicopter) can carry the highest number of unguided rockets? What's the purpose of the little flaps below the horizontal stabilizer/elevator on the JF-17 and J-10A?
Guided missiles are crucial to modern jet aviation, with different types designed to counter various enemy aircraft. Not long ago, we discussed the best infrared-guided air-to-air missiles, and today it's time to focus on radar-guided missiles — those that lock on a target with the assistance of the aircraft’s radar system.
As we celebrate War Thunder’s anniversary, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to every player — both newcomers and long-time veterans. Now, we’re only getting started, with many exciting updates and features still to come. To mark this milestone, we’re thrilled to release a new cinematic trailer showcasing the War Thunder universe. Plus, by clicking the link, players can earn unique anniversary decals just for playing the game. Thank you for being part of this incredible journey!