Warplane Parade: Fw 190 A-5

Pilots!

The Warplane Parade is taking a closer look at the Fw 190 A-5, the durable German fighter. Read about the aircraft's history and how it plays in-game. And for a chance to win Gold, check out our in-game and creative contests!

History

In 1937, concerned that Allied military forces might develop fighters capable of outperforming the Messerschmitt Bf 109, Germany's Reich Air Ministry looked to its designers to come up with a new plane that could supplement their first generation interceptors. Kurt Tank, aeronautical engineer at Focke-Wulf, impressed the Ministry of Aviation with the Fw 190, a radial engine fighter focusing not only on speed -- as with the Bf 109 -- but with a greater emphasis on durability. As Tank put it, the Bf 109 was a "racehorse"; with the Fw 190, he wanted to build a "cavalry horse." 

The Fw 190 first saw combat in 1941, and was used extensively as a multi-role fighter. Multiple variants of the Fw 190 were created, and in 1943, the A-5 was developed after determining that the 190 could be equipped with heavier ordinance. The A-5's BMW 801 D-2 engine was moved six inches forward, which allowed it to carry more weight.

With its weight distribution allowing for a lot of flexibility in its wing-mounted weaponry, the Fw 190 A-5 could be outfitted as a bomber destroyer, recon plane, night fighter, ground attack aircraft, and interceptor. 

In-Game Performance

As befitting Kurt Tank's ideal for a fighter that could "absorb a reasonable amount of battle damage and still get back," the Fw 190 A-5 is second in HP only to the F4U-1 Corsair with its top airframe configuration. Expect to be able to take a good amount of punishment in the Fw 190 A-5 and keep going, but don't forget to pack a Pneumatic Restarter!

Able to equip four 20mm autocannons in its heaviest configuration, the A-5's firepower is unmatched in its tier. Although speed will be reduced in this configuration, it is well worth it, as you'll be able to shred through the competition. 

Try to avoid turn fights in the Fw 190, as its maneuverability isn't great. Look for engagements where you're able to fly relatively straight and put that superior firepower to good use! 

Contests

Butcher Bird

The Fw 190 was dubbed "Würger," or "Butcher Bird," because of its destruction ability. This week, the pilot who destroys the most enemy aircraft in the Fw 190 A-5 will receive 2000! The number of planes destroyed will be calculated from Monday, July 28 to Friday, August 1 at 23:59 PDT.

High Payload

The Fw 190 A-5’s versatility on the battlefield was in part due to its ability to be modified for various combat roles, specifically being able to equip heavy ordinance. The Pilot with the highest payload of XP this week will earn 2000! Experience will be tallied from Monday, July 28 to Friday, August 1 at 23:59 PDT.

Creative Contest: Focke-Wulf Fotos

Want a shot at more prizes? Show us your best Fw 190 A-5 screenshot for a chance to win Gold!