The CV9035DK is a later modification of the Swedish CV90 IFV, built for and operated by the Danish military since the late 2000s. Soon, you’ll have the chance to command this unique variant of the CV90, arriving at the top ranks of the Swedish ground forces tree as part of the Seek & Destroy major update!


Features:

• 35 mm autocannon!
  
• Good mobility.
  
• Light protection.

Vehicle History
[expand type=details]
After the successful entry into service of the CV90 with the Swedish military, the vehicle managed to garner significant attention on the export market as well. The resulting demand from foreign operators led Swedish engineers to continue the development of the CV90 to further increase the vehicle’s capabilities. One such later variant was the Mk III variant of the CV90, developed in the early 2000s. The vehicle featured among other improvements, an upgraded armament consisting of a 35 mm autocannon as well as numerous improvements to its electronic systems. By the end of 2005, Denmark would be one of the first countries to adopt the vehicle into service, ordering 45 units. Immediately after the last unit was delivered in 2009, Denmark dispatched 10 units to operations in Afghanistan, where the vehicle saw its first operational use. The CV9035DK remains in service with the Danish forces to this day.
[/expand]


The CV9035DK is a unique version of the well known CV90 series of IFVs that you may already be familiar with. Arriving to the top ranks of the Swedish ground forces tree with the release of the Seek & Destroy major update, the CV9035DK will substantially reinforce the light vehicle roster and also allow tankers to advance to the top ranks even quicker. Let’s find out more!




The CV90 has been available in War Thunder in numerous variants since its first introduction as part of the initial lineup of Swedish ground vehicles. This unique Danish modification further expands the family by introducing a modification featuring a highly versatile 35 mm Bushmaster autocannon. Packing a greater punch than the Finnish modification of the vehicle, the CV9035DK can quickly lay down a barrage of very precise fire, thus quickly eliminating any target it may encounter on the battlefield. Thanks to its versatile ammunition selection, the vehicle is equally good at destroying land-based opponents as it is at downing hostile aircraft and helicopters. So pilots, be on the lookout for this one!




Similar to its close relatives, the CV9035DK sports excellent mobility, being able to reach a top speed of 70 km/h under ideal circumstances thanks to its 815 horsepower diesel engine. A nimble chassis perfectly complements the rapid-firing autocannon, enabling this vehicle to quickly move around the battlefield and perform surprise attacks on the enemy’s flanks as part of scouting maneuvers. However, be mindful of exposing the vehicle to hostile fire as the CV9035DK’s light protection is only effective at stopping heavy machine gun fire and some autocannon fire at longer engagement distances. Dedicated anti-tank fire or missiles will make short work of the vehicle’s thin armor plates, reducing it to a burning pile of scrap metal.




Meet the CV9035DK as it arrives at the top ranks of the Swedish ground forces tree as part of the Seek & Destroy major for War Thunder. In the meantime, be sure to stay tuned to the news as we continue to keep you posted on all the latest developments surrounding the upcoming update.

Meet the F-4F KWS LV (ICE) which represents the penultimate modification of the legendary F-4 Phantom II in service with the Luftwaffe. Featuring an upgraded radar system and ARH missile capability, the most advanced variant of the Phantom will be arriving at the top rank of the German aviation tree in the Seek & Destroy major update!


Features:

• Excellent flight characteristics compared to other Phantoms.
  
• ARH air-to-air missiles.
  
• Superb versatility.

Vehicle History
[expand type=details]
In the early 1980s, the Luftwaffe initiated a program to improve the combat effectiveness of the F-4F Phantom II then representing Germany’s spearhead in air defense. Being launched due to delays in the development of what would eventually become the Eurofighter Typhoon, the F-4F ICE as it became known, was intended to fill this gap until the more advanced aircraft became available. The main goal of the ICE program was to extend the service life of the F-4F by modernizing its avionics and electronic equipment as well as upgrading its radar to enable the aircraft to carry the powerful AIM-120 AMRAAM missile.
The upgrade process began in October 1988 and was carried out in several stages. The first finalized aircraft under the new program were commissioned in the early 1990s. The F-4F KWS LV (ICE) would then continue its service with the Luftwaffe until 2013 before it was ultimately phased out in favor of its successor, the Eurofighter Typhoon.
[/expand]


The Seek & Destroy major update brings with it the addition of the most advanced F-4F modification ever serviced by the Luftwaffe. Featuring much expanded air-to-air capabilities and retaining its signature versatility, the F-4F KWS LV (ICE) will soon rightfully take its place among the top rank of the German aviation tree. Let’s dig deeper into the details!




Interesting: The abbreviation “ICE” highlights the aircraft’s extended capabilities and stands for Improved Combat Efficiency.



The F-4F ICE represents a linear upgrade over the base model. The main focus of the ICE upgrade on the F-4F was to install more modern avionics and electronics as well as to outfit the aircraft with a more capable multimode radar. These upgrades chiefly enable the F-4F KWS LV (ICE) to mount the new AIM-120 ARH air-to-air missile. As a result, when piloting this aircraft, you’ll be able to engage in beyond visual range combat without needing to keep the target illuminated by the onboard radar throughout the guidance process. Instead, this process is now being done by the missile itself immediately after launch.

Furthermore, the F-4F KWS LV (ICE) also comes with the ability to carry the German domestic modification of the Sidewinder missile, the AIM-9L(I)-1, which features IRCCM and is thus less susceptible to being thrown off track by advanced countermeasures. Pilots will also have access to the AGM-65D and G missiles with infrared imaging guidance. In terms of the remaining systems found on the aircraft, they are left largely unchanged, leading to a very familiar performance envelope for pilots who have already flown the F-4F. Overall, these upgrades greatly improve the venerable Phantom’s combat capabilities, giving it the edge over opponents it will meet in the fierce air battles of the next major update!

In your matches by Scott, Community Manager: “Most pilots who jump into the F-4F KWS will already be familiar with the general handling of a Phantom at this point. The caveat with the F-4F KWS is a drastically improved radar set and your AIM-120s to make full use of that. Remembering at all times that your platform is not an agile dog-fighter, you will want to be selective with your placement early on. Your BVR capacity is excellent, so stay away from the main opening brawls and keep yourself to the sides. Focus on your AMRAAM deployment.
Once the initial clashes have taken place, you can move in closer and focus on any stragglers that got separated from the main pack with your AIM-9s. The radar does have some excellent angles to make use off at various ranges, but you don't want to be finding yourself forced into any maneuvering engagements with lightweight fighters. You are very much a supporting role fighter. Use your countermeasures scarcely and selectively as they will be your primary form of defense.”[/quote]



The F-4F KWS LV (ICE) Phantom II will soon be making its way to War Thunder as part of the Seek & Destroy major update, giving seasoned German pilots access to an even more advanced weapon system. In the meantime, make sure to stay tuned to the news for the latest information regarding the upcoming update!

Today we’re introducing the VLT-2, a French torpedo boat built and used only in small numbers following the liberation of France at the end of WWII. This boat is arriving as part of the Seek & Destroy major update, becoming the first vessel available in the new French Coastal fleet tree!


Features:

• Excellent mobility!
  
• Potent arsenal.
  
• Premium bonuses.

Vehicle History
[expand type=details]
During the occupation of France in the 1940s, French shipyards still had a number of vessels in construction. Part of these were a set of ten boats, which the Germans began converting into mine clearing vessels and rescue boats for the Luftwaffe. Shortly after the liberation, most of these projects were canceled. However, two of the vessels were converted into torpedo boats, being designated VLT-1 and VLT-2. These vessels underwent extensive evaluation in the postwar period, but the Navy ended up not pursuing building more units. In the end, VLT-2 ended up being dismantled in 1949 while the VLT-1 served as a basis for a new series of MTBs.
[/expand]

Pre-order — VLT-2 Pack
29.99

• VLT-2 (Rank 4, France)
  
• 1000 Golden Eagles
  
• Premium account for 15 days
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique “People’s Avenger” title
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique “Free France” flag
  

The VLT-2 will be the first French Coastal fleet vessel to arrive as part of the Seek & Destroy major update. Sporting excellent firepower and mobility, the VLT-2 will not only be a fantastic addition to any mid-tier lineup, but will also allow you to get a head start at researching the new French Coastal fleet research tree in the future closed beta testing!




Although the VLT-2 didn’t have the chance to show off its capabilities in real combat, it will have ample opportunity to make up for this on the high seas of War Thunder naval battles. This French boat boasts impressive mobility figures with her top speed exceeding 40 knots. It features a common weapon layout for vessels of its time period, being fitted with a pair of 40 mm Bofors and 20 mm Oerlikon cannons.



More importantly however, the VLT-2 also sports a pair of 550 mm torpedo launchers, giving it the chance to sink opponents much bigger than itself with a well aimed salvo. Furthermore, being powered by aircraft engines, the VLT-2 can reach impressive top speeds and make sharp turns. As a result, the vessel can make perfect tactical use of more confined naval battlegrounds to surprise its opponents during an engagement.




That’s it for today! The VLT-2 will be the first French Coastal fleet vessel available in War Thunder, coming as part of the Seek & Destroy major update. In a future major update later this year, you’ll be able to gain Early Access to researching the rest of the Coastal fleet tree if you purchase this special pack.

• A bug that caused buildings on the North Holland location to have low resistance to damage, making it possible to destroy them with machine gun fire, has been fixed.
  
• Rookie trophies with vehicles available in the in-game Item Shop for Golden Eagles are now updated twice as often: every 15 days. There are now 7 trophies instead of 12 at any given time.

Patch notes reflect only key changes, meaning they may not include a complete list of all improvements made. Additionally, War Thunder is constantly being updated and some changes may not require an update. Changes reflected in patch notes are formed by taking reactions and requests of the community from the bug reporting service, forums and other official platforms into account. Bug fixes and changes are implemented in order of importance, for example a game-breaking bug will be worked on and implemented sooner.

Today we’ll be showing you the interesting Namer 30, an Israeli armored personnel carrier developed on the Merkava chassis, coming to the top ranks of the Israeli ground tree as part of the Seek & Destroy major update!


Features:

• Deadly 30 mm cannon.
  
• Spike missiles!
  
• Decent protection.

Vehicle History
[expand type=details]
Up until the early 2000s, Israel’s primary APC was still the American-built M113 which first entered service in the early 1960s. Becoming increasingly clear that the vehicle was susceptible to the threats of the modern battlefield, engineers began work on developing a successor based on the Merkava tank. Following rapid development and successful testing, the Namer officially entered service with the IDF in 2008. In 2016, the Namer underwent an experimental modification which saw it outfitted with a remote controlled 30 mm turret and Spike missile launchers.
[/expand]


The Namer 30 will soon take up the place as the new top light vehicle available to the Israeli ground tree in the Seek & Destroy major update. Outfitted with highly potent weapons and offering great mobility, the Namer will greatly reinforce the top ranks and will help diversify ground lineups Let’s dive into the full details!




This experimental variant of the Namer first derived from exploring the concept of outfitting these vehicles with more powerful weapons, and as a result, this variant features a much different design compared to the others. When comparing to the Merkava though, instead of the high-caliber main tank gun, the Namer is outfitted with a remote-controlled 30 mm turret, possessing fantastic versatility thanks to its high rate of fire and excellent ballistic properties. Furthermore, there’s a pair of twin Spike launchers that greatly expand this vehicle’s anti-tank capability, allowing it to engage even heavily armored targets at a distance of up to 4 km!

Interesting: Because the Namer is based on the Merkava MBT, it features much better protection than most other IFVs.




You’ll most likely be familiar with IFVs in War Thunder, knowing that they all feature similar characteristics such as being light-weight and having good mobility. The Namer does also stick to this design philosophy to some extent, however due to it inheriting the Merkava’s chassis, it boasts significantly better protection than most other IFVs in the game. While this chassis doesn’t mean you’ll be speeding around like an R3, it does mean you’ll be able to survive extra shots, particularly from other IFVs and aircraft for example. This is thanks to the good positioning of vital modules and the crew behind the engine acting as a barrier to penetrating shots, plus using a remote-controlled turret, further lowering the exposure of crew members from incoming fire.

In your matches by Dmitry, Lead Game Designer: “On paper you have a rather strong hull for an IFV and an uninhabited turret with the well-known 30mm cannon, which is already familiar to many vehicles. On its BR, this cannon can penetrate some MBTs in the LFP, but almost always non-fatally. So don’t go head-on on MBTs, fire at them from afar with spikes, drive into the side of close targets, or don’t light up if both points are no longer feasible. Also try to hunt for other IFVs and SPAAs, and don't forget about scouting -- it helps your allies a lot.

Spike missiles are also well-known to players from such vehicles as Freccia, Vilkas, KF41. They can pleasantly surprise and bring an unexpected frag, but you can't rely on them. They fully support their name -- "fire and forget". I always joke about this: "shoot and forget about the missile", it doesn’t owe you anything, but it may accidentally bring you a reward. Also, don't forget that they reload quickly enough at the capture zone, and on open maps such vehicles become quite good defenders of points: with scouting, an autocannon effective in close combat, and "endless" RNG Spikes.”

That’s today’s blog wrapped! The Namer is going to prove to be a good addition to Israeli ground lineups, where you’ll be able to research and try it when it comes to the game in the Seek & Destroy major update. In the meantime, make sure to stay tuned to the news that we’re currently cooking so that you don’t miss out on what’s coming. Until then, have fun in your battles!

Members of the Italian Navy celebrate Italian Navy Day on June 10th. The Italian Navy was founded in 1861, shortly after the unification of the country. Today it has more than 30,000 staff, 184 ships and 70 aircraft. They patrol the Adriatic and Tyrrhenian seas, as well as the Strait of Otranto.

This destroyer is available for 3,850 Golden Eagles.

When: Until June 13th (07:00 GMT).
Where: Italy > Bluewater fleet > Premium vehicles.

About this destroyer

• The RN Geniere features three main caliber turrets housing 120 mm guns with a decent rate of fire and good selection of ammo. Additionally this destroyer has good protection against aircraft thanks to its 20 mm anti-aircraft guns! To deal with heavier ships, RN Geniere is also armed with 6 x 533 mm torpedoes and depth charges. A good all-round destroyer!

You can get this decal for this special occasion!


“MAS 15” decal

When: Until June 13th (07:00 GMT).

Task: Play 3 battles using Italian naval vessels at rank III or higher to receive the “MAS 15” decal.

Additional details:

• You must use a minimum of rank III.
  
• Your activity must not be below 70%.
  
• You can complete the task in random battles, except for Enduring Confrontation missions, and [Assault] mode.
  
• Track your progress in the hangar by clicking Nickname → Achievements → Holidays → Italian Navy Day.
  
• You can find the decal in the “Holidays” tab in the Customization menu.

We enjoyed seeing your captured screenshots last week! This week is open to any vehicle of your choice. What puts a smile on your face every time you use it in War Thunder? The three most popular and three selected by us will get 300 GE. See the winners down below!


Create a stunning screenshot and submit it on the War Thunder Steam Community Hub with the tag #WTscreen123. You have time until the 14th of June to submit your screenshot.

After that date, 6 winners will be selected (3 of which will be the highest rated by the community and 3 selected by our judges), each of which receive a reward of 300GE.

• Your screenshot must include a player vehicle.
  
• You must add the #WTscreen123 tag (title cannot have any other text in it).
  
• Artists may only win by popular vote once per four screenshot competitions.

[/b]

Screenshots need to be compliant with the War Thunder rules.

You need to be the author of the screenshot.

Screenshot needs to be new. You cannot use those which have previously been published or used in other competitions.

We will only accept raw screenshots from the game. You cannot use any editing software nor any other visual enhancements (like Nvidia Ansel filters).

You can use filters and settings built into War Thunder.

You can use the replay functionality built into War Thunder.

Rewards will be delivered to the author's account within 14 working days.

[/list]


https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3259466030
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3260058937
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3029732522

https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3258987659
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3258533988
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3259540663

Each winner will get 300GE! Congratulations and see you next week!

Today, we’ll familiarize you with the ultimate version of the MiG-21 series that will soon be joining the skies of War Thunder. Meet the MiG-21 Bison, based on the MiG-21-93 upgrade and domestically upgraded by India, a ferocious new premium aircraft with a plethora of weaponry on offer!


Features:

• Wide array of air-to-air options: R-73 and R-27.
  
• Modernized HUD and HMS for R-73.
  
• Air-to-ground ordinance options.

Vehicle History
[expand type=details]
In the early 1990s, Mikoyan and its partner companies launched an upgrade and modernization package for the MiG-21Bis with the aim of offering it to the many operators of the type over the world. Their aim was to prolong the service life of the aircraft against rapidly advancing newer types of aircraft coming along at the time and on competing offer.

Taking to the skies for the first time in 1995, the new 21-93 variant would see the integration of many modern features, such as R-73 and R-27. The latter made possible thanks to its upgraded pulse-doppler Kopyo radar developed from the Yak-141 / MiG-29 series of radar. A new canopy would be introduced, along with a modernized Heads-Up-Display and Helmet mounted sight to make full use of the R-73s capabilities.

India would officially pursue a contract in 1996, with the HAL company handling domestic modernization work after an initial batch of aircraft modified in Russia. India was already one of the largest operators of the type, having the MiG-21 in service since the 1960s across various types. The new upgrade was planned to take the type into the 21st century for the Indian Air Force. Known officially as the MiG-21UPG (For Upgrade) but later as the “Bison”. Internally the cockpit was also reworked to include HOTAS controls. New integrated countermeasures were installed along the wing roots on the upper surface, providing additional protection and survivability in combat. 

The Indian Air Force plans to retire all MiG-21 Bison aircraft by 2025, replaced in service by the domestically developed HAL Tejas.
[/expand]

Pre-order - MiG-21 Bison Pack
74.99

• MiG-21 Bison (Rank 8, Great Britain)
  
• 2500 Golden Eagles
  
• Premium account for 20 days
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique "Falcon Slayer" title
  
• Pre-order bonus: unique “No. 51 Squadron IAF batch” decal
  

Few families of vehicles need little introduction more than the MiG-21 series. From the early F-13 variant, to the staple MFs and rounding off with the Bis, multiple nations and many pilots have come to love and fear the Fishbed series in game. Joining the ranks of the British tree as a premium will be the ultimate version to grace the skies, sporting the features many of the most modern aircraft in the game have become renowned for. Much like South African vehicles, Indian vehicles will be introduced into the British tree. Let’s dive deeper into what you can expect with the Bison!



Perhaps the most significant upgrade over the standard Bis models already in game comes in the form of its advanced weaponry. You can expect to see the familiar all-aspect advanced R-73 missile that some of the top jet fighters in game are currently equipped with. Couple this with the Helmet Mounted Sight and the Bison already stands up well against some of the better modern fighters in the game currently. Its upgraded Kopyo radar also means this MiG-21 can sport the R-27, making the Bison a formidable threat both in close range dogfights and at long range engagements too. 

Under the hood, you’ll find the same R-25-300 engine powering the Bison, which is already a powerful engine that gives the airframe its famed performance. But it does mean the aircraft won’t get any flight performance boost over the Bis models. Defensively, an upgraded Tarang RWR suite and new integrated countermeasures found above the wings provides enhanced survivability over what many of the other MiG-21s offer. Meaning when you do find yourself on the wrong end of a missile lock, the Bison has a better chance of getting you through to the other side.  



The MiG-21 Bison also features a number of air-to-ground options, many of which can be found on the Bis. Thanks to this, the Bison doesn’t sacrifice its multirole capabilities despite the numerous air-to-air upgrades. Unguided S-8 rockets, Mk.82 and Mk.83 bombs as well as the KAB-500KR TV Guided bomb mean you retain plenty of options to take the Bison out into combined battles and support your team from the skies. Plus, you’ll still retain the S-24 and S-5K Rockets, OFAB-100, ZB-500 and standard FAB-500 bombs from the MiG-21Bis in your arsenal.



In your matches by Scott, Community Manager: “The Bison will be a breath of fresh air compared to whats already available in the British tree. Compared to many of the sluggish missile carriers (with the exception of the Gripen of course), the Bison will provide an excellent agile fighter with a potent and dangerous combination of R-73s and a HMS to make best use of them. Whilst you do have some BVR punch, R-73s are going to form the core of your load-outs in the Bison. Make use of the excellent acceleration carried over from the MiG-21Bis and don’t find yourself making too many turns and bleeding too much speed. Hit and run tactics will work well for the Bison, getting into a fight, throwing off some R-73s at unsuspecting opponents at high angles and getting out of the fight quickly whilst making use of your extra countermeasures is the way to go.”



Very soon, you’ll be able to take to the skies in the Bison yourself and greatly speed up your progress in the British tree at the same time, since it’s a premium. This modernized icon will offer a taste of the top performance and advanced weaponry found in War Thunder. That’s it for now!

It’s D-Day. June 6th, 1944. 80 years ago today, Allied forces landed on the beaches of Normandy to take back France. As part of Operation Overlord, more than 150,000 Allied soldiers landed at Normandy, first by parachutes and gliders and then under the cover of aircraft and artillery and from transport ships. In total around a million people were involved in this operation.

We’re honoring the largest seaborne invasion ever today on its 80th anniversary. Take a look at the various different activities and discounts that we’ve created dedicated to this day.

When: From June 6th (12:00 GMT) until June 10th (12:00 GMT).

Celebrate the anniversary with the following unique bundles available for purchase in the Gaijin store.

$59.02

• M4A3E2 Sherman Jumbo Cobra King;
  
• M18 Black Cat Pack;
  
• George Bostwick's P-47M-1-RE Thunderbolt Pack;
  
• Mustang Pack;
  
• Unique title: “First in Deed”;
  
• Unique decal: “First United States Army Insignia”.
  

$56.38

• M10 Achilles Pack;
  
• Sherman Firefly Ic Pack;
  
• Prendergast`s Spitfire FR Mk.XIVe Pack;
  
• Typhoon Pack;
  
• Unique title: “Sledgehammer”;
  
• Unique decal: “2nd Army Formation badge”.
  

$75

• M4A3E2 Sherman Jumbo Cobra King;
  
• M18 Black Cat Pack;
  
• George Bostwick's P-47M-1-RE Thunderbolt Pack;Mustang Pack;
  
• M10 Achilles Pack;
  
• Sherman Firefly Ic Pack;
  
• Prendergast`s Spitfire FR Mk.XIVe Pack;
  
• Typhoon Pack;
  
• Unique title: “Overlord”;
  
• Unique decal: “SHAEF insignia”.
  
  
• + Decals and titles from “First in deed” and “Sledgehammer” bundles.

Note! You can also get a unique title and the decal, if you log in to the game from the 6th to the 10th of June and gain at least three victories, whilst at the same time you previously purchased all separate packs which are included in the bundles above (M4a3e2 Sherman purchased in the game using Golden Eagles). The titles and the decals will be assigned after the 11th of June to all users who have fulfilled these conditions.

Decorate your vehicles with the unique D-Day ship flag and decal that features the flags of France, the US, Great Britain and Canada.

When: From June 6th (12:00 GMT) until June 10th (07:00 GMT).

Task: Play 3 battles using US, British, and French vehicles at rank III or higher to receive the “D-Day Allies Badge” decal!
Task: Get a total of 10,000 mission points with US, British and French vehicles of rank III or higher in Naval Battles to receive the “80th Anniversary of D-Day (1944-2024)” ship flag!

Additional details:

• You must use a minimum of rank III.
  
• Your activity must not be below 70%.
  
• You can complete the task in random battles, except for Enduring Confrontation missions, and [Assault] mode.
  
• Track your progress in the hangar by clicking Nickname → Achievements → Holidays → 80th anniversary of the Normandy landings.
  
• You can find the decal in the “Holidays” tab in the Customization menu.

When: From June 5th (11:00 GMT) until June 17th (11:00 GMT).

The Operation Overlord event, part of our D-Day 80th anniversary celebrations, has just begun! In this event you can get yourself the Churchill AVRE, a special vehicle first used during the Normandy Landings, plus two decals and the Flying Dustbin decoration.

CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE DETAILS

When: From June 1st (11:00 GMT) until June 30th (11:00 GMT).

For June’s Pages of History, we’re honoring Percy Hobart. Hobart was the main man behind Hobart’s Funnies, a set of special engineering vehicles, including the Churchill AVRE, that played a vital role on D-Day. Complete 8 tasks and his profile icon is yours.

CLICK HERE FOR ALL THE DETAILS

When: From June 6th (12:00 GMT) until June 10th (07:00 GMT).
Where: Great Britain > Bluewater fleet > Premium vehicles.

HMS Belfast played a crucial role on D-Day, being one of the first ships to bombard the Normandy coast before Allied troops landed, softening up German defenses. HMS Belfast is now a permanent static display on the River Thames in London and is one of only three bombardment ships left from D-Day. She’s available for a discount on this special occasion!


We’ve prepared some aircraft, ground and naval vehicle D-Day tournaments that you can register for right now until June 8th! In these tournaments you can win the special “D-Day” decal and “Normandy Ace” title. Be sure to join the official Esport Discord community!

CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE TOURNAMENTS WEBSITE

How to participate in the War Thunder Tournaments

Meet the Churchill AVRE “Petard”, a special modification of the well-known Churchill heavy-tank developed to support infantry units in breaking through heavily fortified positions. Featuring a special high-caliber mortar, this heavy-duty vehicle can be obtained in the Operation Overlord event!


Features:

• Destructive 230 mm mortar!
  
• Excellent armor protection.
  
• Sluggish mobility.
  
• Limited range on the mortar and low muzzle velocity.

Vehicle History
[expand type=details]
In 1942, the British army began developing a new heavy assault vehicle that was intended to provide critical support to engineers during combat as part of the Hobart’s Funnies series. After evaluating several potential chassis, tank designers ultimately settled on the Churchill heavy tank as being the ideal option due to its extensive protection, roomy interior and ability to fit side doors for quick access to and from the vehicle. Additionally, the vehicle’s standard primary armament was swapped out with a special 230 mm mortar, capable of blasting away heavy fortifications. After successful testing, the Churchill AVRE "Petard" entered production in January 1943, being converted from standard Mk. III and Mk. IV Churchill tanks. Making its debut during the Normandy landings, the Churchill AVRE "Petard" remained in service for the remainder of the war with over 750 vehicles being produced.
[/expand]


The Churchill AVRE "Petard" is another one of Britain’s interesting vehicles from the Hobart’s Funnies series of vehicles, designed with specific tasks in mind. This one is for demolishing fortified positions, but of course in War Thunder you’ll be able to have fun taking out enemy vehicles in whatever way possible! Let’s take a look at it.




Generally the AVRE (Armoured Vehicle Royal Engineers) concept is not new to the game. Unlike the Centurion AVRE for example, the Churchill AVRE "Petard" first appeared in WWII due to need of specially designed engineering vehicles. The main aspect of this vehicle is its huge 230 mm spigot mortar, designed to demolish defensive fortification lines with a special demolition charge that weighs 18 kg and contains an explosive mass of 8 kg. Thanks to this, a hit with this projectile is almost guaranteed to inflict a huge amount of damage to enemy targets, blasting them to smithereens and back to the hangar!

Interesting: The Churchill AVRE “Petard” was first used on D-Day, 6th June 1944 and was part of Hobart’s Funnies vehicles. These tanks were designed by British engineer Percy Hobart specifically to support troops on D-Day. Some other vehicles in this series include the Crab Sherman, Amphibious Sherman, Bobbin Churchill carpet layer, Churchill Fascine carrier, Churchill Bridge Layer and Churchill Ramp Carrier.

You can get Percy Hobart’s profile icon in June’s Pages of History. Check it out here!


Percy Hobart




While incredibly destructive, the mortar is not only difficult to aim due to its low muzzle velocity, but also has severely limited range as it can only engage targets up to just over 150 meters. Combining this with typical mobility found on the Churchill tanks, you’re limited to close quarter brawls and urban fighting.

On the other hand, the Churchill’s excellent protection will prove as a valuable asset for this type of fighting, allowing you to spearhead an attack and break through the enemy’s lines with good old brute force and sheer determination.




This brilliant and rather entertaining vehicle which many of you have been waiting eagerly for is at last coming to War Thunder as part of the Operation Overlord event. How can you earn this fun vehicle? Play in this event, gain mission points, complete 6 stages and it’s yours!

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE OPERATION OVERLORD EVENT HERE