Hey there, fellow War Thunder pilots! Ready to dive into the wild blue yonder with some of the most iconic aircraft the USA has to offer? This guide is your go-to resource for navigating the American plane tree in War Thunder, covering everything from the nimble biplanes of the early ranks to the supersonic jets that dominate the skies. We'll break down the strengths and weaknesses of various aircraft, offering tips and tricks to help you dominate in air battles and become a true ace. So buckle up, adjust your goggles, and let's get started!

Rank I: The Foundation of Flight

At Rank I, you're introduced to the basics of American aviation in War Thunder. These early aircraft are perfect for learning the fundamentals of air combat, such as energy management, gunnery, and basic maneuvers. Don't underestimate these planes; they can be surprisingly effective in the right hands.

• Boeing P-26 Peashooter: The Peashooter is a classic early war fighter known for its maneuverability and decent armament. Its agility allows you to outturn many opponents, making it a great choice for dogfighting. However, its open cockpit makes you vulnerable to enemy fire, and its low speed can be a disadvantage against faster aircraft. Mastering the Peashooter means using its turn rate to your advantage, staying close to the enemy, and avoiding head-on engagements. Aim for the wings and engines of your opponents to maximize your damage output. Understanding the Peashooter is really understanding the basics of flying. With it, you can understand the fundamentals of air combat and how to use your aircraft's strengths to your advantage.
• Grumman F3F Biplane: The F3F is another excellent biplane, boasting impressive climb rate and sturdy construction. This plane can take a beating and still stay in the fight. Its armament is adequate for its tier, allowing you to engage a variety of targets. The F3F's primary weakness is its lower speed compared to some of its contemporaries. Use its climb rate to gain an altitude advantage, then swoop down on unsuspecting enemies. Employ rolling scissors and other defensive maneuvers to evade pursuers. This aircraft is a perfect trainer. You can learn how to use your plane's strengths to your advantage while mitigating its weaknesses.
• Curtiss H-75 Hawk: The H-75 Hawk is a monoplane fighter that offers a step up in performance from the biplanes. Its higher speed and improved armament make it a formidable opponent. It features a decent climb rate, good maneuverability, and a powerful engine that allows you to dictate the pace of the battle. One of the drawbacks for this plane is that it is fragile. Avoid taking unnecessary risks and focus on picking your engagements carefully. Boom-and-zoom tactics work well with the H-75, allowing you to make quick attacks and disengage before the enemy can retaliate. This plane really prepares you for the faster planes to come.

Rank II: Entering the Fray

Rank II sees the introduction of more advanced aircraft, with improved firepower, speed, and durability. These planes require a more refined understanding of tactics and situational awareness to be successful.

• Curtiss P-36 Hawk: The P-36 is an evolution of the H-75, offering further improvements in performance and armament. It's a well-rounded fighter that excels in a variety of roles. The P-36 is known for its excellent maneuverability and decent firepower, making it a capable dogfighter. Watch out for its fragile engine. Overheating can be a major issue if you're not careful. Manage your engine power and avoid prolonged periods of full throttle. Use your maneuverability to stay on the enemy's tail and deliver precise bursts of fire. A great plane that can handle a variety of missions.
• Bell P-39 Airacobra: The P-39 is a unique fighter with a powerful engine mounted behind the cockpit. This configuration gives it excellent maneuverability and a devastating 37mm cannon. The central placement of its engine and armament gives it exceptional handling characteristics. However, its high-altitude performance is lacking. Stay at lower altitudes where the P-39's performance shines. Use your 37mm cannon to deliver crippling blows to enemy aircraft. Aim for critical components such as engines and control surfaces to quickly disable your opponents. This is a tricky plane, but mastering it is rewarding.
• Grumman F4F Wildcat: The F4F is a tough and reliable naval fighter. It is known for its durability and decent firepower. It can take a lot of punishment and keep on flying. Its ruggedness allows it to withstand considerable damage. The Wildcat's main weakness is its lower speed compared to some of its rivals. Rely on your team to provide support and avoid getting isolated. Use your durability to your advantage, soaking up enemy fire while dishing out damage in return. A great plane that can take a beating and keep on fighting.

Rank III: The Warbirds Emerge

Rank III is where you'll find some of the most iconic American warbirds of World War II. These aircraft offer a significant leap in performance and firepower, allowing you to take on a wider range of opponents.

• Lockheed P-38 Lightning: The P-38 is a distinctive twin-engine fighter known for its high speed, heavy armament, and excellent climb rate. Its twin engines give it unmatched speed and firepower for its tier. The Lightning can outrun most of its opponents and deliver devastating attacks. However, its large size makes it a relatively easy target. Use your speed to dictate the terms of engagement, diving on enemies from above and disengaging before they can react. Avoid prolonged dogfights, as the P-38's turning ability is not its strong suit. A great plane for hit-and-run tactics.
• North American B-25 Mitchell: The B-25 is a versatile medium bomber that can also be used as a ground attacker. It features a heavy bomb load and numerous machine guns for self-defense. The B-25's versatility makes it a valuable asset in any mission. It can be used to bomb enemy bases, strafe ground targets, or even engage enemy fighters. However, its large size and limited maneuverability make it vulnerable to enemy interceptors. Fly with fighter escort whenever possible. Use your numerous machine guns to ward off attackers. This plane can really turn the tide of battle.
• Vought F4U Corsair: The F4U is a powerful naval fighter with excellent speed, climb rate, and firepower. It is regarded as one of the best fighters of World War II. The Corsair's combination of speed, firepower, and durability makes it a formidable opponent. It can outclimb, outrun, and outgun most of its contemporaries. However, its tricky landing characteristics can be a challenge for new pilots. Practice your landings in the F4U. Be mindful of its high stall speed. Use your speed and climb rate to gain an altitude advantage, then dive on unsuspecting enemies. The Corsair is a true legend of the skies.

Rank IV: Jet Age Dawns

Rank IV marks the beginning of the jet age, with the introduction of faster, more powerful aircraft. These planes require a new set of skills to master, including high-speed maneuvering and jet combat tactics.

• North American P-51 Mustang: The P-51 is one of the most iconic fighters of World War II, renowned for its long range, high speed, and excellent performance at high altitudes. The Mustang's range allows it to escort bombers deep into enemy territory. Its speed and maneuverability make it a formidable dogfighter. Watch out for its fragile cooling system. Overheating can be a major issue if you're not careful. Manage your engine power and avoid prolonged periods of full throttle. Use your speed and altitude advantage to dictate the terms of engagement. The Mustang is a true all-rounder, capable of excelling in a variety of roles. A very versatile plane that can handle a variety of missions.
• Republic P-47 Thunderbolt: The P-47 is a rugged and heavily armed fighter-bomber. It is known for its ability to absorb tremendous amounts of damage. Its eight .50 caliber machine guns pack a serious punch. The Thunderbolt can take a beating and keep on fighting. Its high-altitude performance is not as good as some of its rivals. Stay at lower altitudes where the P-47's performance shines. Use your firepower to devastate enemy aircraft and ground targets. The Thunderbolt is a true workhorse, capable of delivering punishing blows to the enemy.
• Grumman F8F Bearcat: The F8F is a compact and highly maneuverable naval fighter. It is known for its exceptional acceleration and climb rate. It can quickly reach high altitudes and engage enemy aircraft. The Bearcat's small size makes it a difficult target to hit. However, its limited fuel capacity restricts its operational range. Manage your fuel consumption carefully. Avoid prolonged chases. Use your acceleration and climb rate to your advantage, ambushing unsuspecting enemies. The Bearcat is a true pocket rocket, capable of surprising even the most experienced pilots.

Rank V: Supersonic Supremacy

Rank V introduces supersonic jets, representing the pinnacle of American aviation technology. These aircraft are incredibly fast and maneuverable, but they also require a high level of skill to fly effectively.

• North American F-86 Sabre: The F-86 is a swept-wing jet fighter that served as America's primary air superiority fighter during the Korean War. It is known for its speed, maneuverability, and excellent dogfighting capabilities. The Sabre's swept wings allow it to reach supersonic speeds. Its six .50 caliber machine guns provide ample firepower. However, its early variants lack air-to-air missiles. Rely on your gunnery skills to take down enemy aircraft. Use your speed and maneuverability to outwit your opponents. The Sabre is a true legend of the jet age, capable of going toe-to-toe with the best the enemy has to offer.
• Grumman F9F Panther: The F9F is a versatile naval jet fighter that served during the Korean War. It is known for its ruggedness and ability to operate from aircraft carriers. The Panther's sturdy construction allows it to withstand considerable damage. Its four 20mm cannons provide ample firepower. However, its speed and maneuverability are not as good as some of its rivals. Rely on your team to provide support and avoid getting isolated. Use your firepower to devastate enemy aircraft and ground targets. The Panther is a true workhorse, capable of delivering punishing blows to the enemy.

Rank VI and Beyond: Modern Marvels

Ranks VI and beyond feature the latest and greatest in American aviation technology, including advanced supersonic fighters, bombers, and attack aircraft. These planes are equipped with sophisticated radar, missiles, and electronic warfare systems, making them incredibly potent in modern air combat.

• McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom II: The F-4 is a versatile multirole fighter that served as America's primary air superiority fighter during the Vietnam War. It is known for its speed, firepower, and ability to carry a wide variety of ordnance. The Phantom's powerful radar allows it to engage targets at long range. Its air-to-air missiles provide devastating firepower. However, its large size and limited maneuverability make it vulnerable to enemy fighters. Rely on your wingmen to provide cover. Use your radar and missiles to engage enemies from beyond visual range. The Phantom is a true icon of the Cold War, capable of taking on any threat.
• Grumman F-14 Tomcat: The F-14 is a legendary naval fighter known for its variable-sweep wings and long-range air-to-air missiles. It is regarded as one of the most capable air superiority fighters ever built. The Tomcat's variable-sweep wings allow it to optimize its performance for different flight regimes. Its long-range missiles provide unmatched firepower. However, its high cost and complex maintenance requirements limited its production. Use your long-range missiles to engage enemies from afar. Rely on your wingman to provide support and cover. The Tomcat is a true legend of naval aviation, capable of dominating the skies.

Tips for Success

• Master the Basics: Before jumping into high-tier jets, make sure you have a solid understanding of the fundamentals of air combat. Practice your gunnery, energy management, and situational awareness.
• Know Your Aircraft: Each aircraft has its own strengths and weaknesses. Take the time to learn the characteristics of your plane and how to use them to your advantage.
• Fly with Friends: War Thunder is a team game. Flying with friends can significantly increase your chances of success. Communicate with your team, coordinate your attacks, and support each other.
• Stay Aware: Pay attention to your surroundings. Keep an eye on the minimap, listen for enemy engine sounds, and be aware of potential threats.
• Practice Makes Perfect: The more you fly, the better you'll become. Don't get discouraged by losses. Learn from your mistakes and keep practicing.

Final Thoughts

The American plane tree in War Thunder offers a diverse range of aircraft, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. By understanding the characteristics of these planes and mastering the fundamentals of air combat, you can become a formidable force in the skies. So, grab your joystick, fire up your engines, and get ready to experience the thrill of aerial warfare!