The Firecrest, given the SBAC designation YA.1, was a single-engine naval strike fighter built by Blackburn Aircraft for service with the British Fleet Air Arm during the Second World War. Developed over the troubled Blackburn Firebrand for aircraft operations, three prototypes were created but only two actually flew. The aircraft suffered from many problems, changes in design requirements, lack of components and the halted development of more capable piston engines cemented its destiny. These problems delayed the aircraft's production until 1947. At this point, aircraft like the Gloster Meteor started to become more common and other jet powered attackers were already in development, so the Firecrest was deemed obsolete for its time.

It was introduced during Update 1.89 "Imperial Navy" as one of the first Squadron vehicles. It represents the attempt to develop an improved naval aircraft from the troubled Blackburn Firebrand. It could be considered as a hybrid between the Firebrand and a F4U Corsair due to its gull shaped wings, durability, powerful engine and beautiful sleek appearance. However, it also has other traits that make it well-suited for the naval environment of War Thunder. Armed with a couple of HMGs mounted in the wings, and a single 18-inch Mk XV torpedo, it is not the most capable aircraft in air battles, but is more suited for players that are interested in naval battles. It has access to airbrakes and an arrestor gear, which means that it can land and take off from aircraft carriers, while the airbrakes allow the aircraft to lose speed quickly if needed.