Today we’re looking at some changes to how aircraft rewards operate when an enemy aircraft crashes without taking any damage. Let’s get into it!How this new mechanic worksSometimes you’re dogfighting an enemy, but they crash without you doing any damage to them. In real life, a term for this is “Maneuver kill”. Even though you did no damage, your dogfighting abilities are what caused them to crash. However, there was no direct reward for this, which could definitely be frustrating. We’re adding a new mechanic in the major update to address this: the nearest player who is within close proximity (3 km) of an enemy aircraft that crashes without any damage will get a destruction credit and the reward in Silver Lions, research points and mission score. The reward is 50% less than a full reward. Why is the reward reduced? Because there will be circumstances where someone who didn’t do anything will be credited with a destruction and reward, simply because they were in close proximity, so sometimes you might get lucky with some free points.You may be thinking, what happens if you fire a missile from a far distance while your aircraft is nowhere near the enemy? Let’s say your missile is tracking them and closing in, but the enemy crashes before the missile can reach them. The missile you fired will also have its own proximity of 3 km, however the system will search for a player within a 3 km radius first, and if there is no player, then the missile radius is used. This means if your missile is after an enemy and closing in and they bail out or crash on purpose, and there is no player within the radius, you’ll also get a destruction credit and a reward as well.

The missile reward mechanic is also being added to the already-existing bail out reward mechanic.

This new mechanic does not take anything away from how air battles functioned before — instead, it adds a new bonus by giving a destruction credit and reward in situations that previously gave nothing at all.Some informationPlease bear in mind that this new mechanic may not be 100% perfect, and will also sometimes reward players who did nothing, just because they were closer. This mechanic is also not enabled in Air Simulator Battles, but is enabled in Air, Ground, Naval Arcade/Realistic Battles and Ground Simulator battles. You’ll be able to see information about crashing without damage and bailing out events that occurred in battle in the end of battle log.We hope you like this new change, let us know what you think and see you soon!

A legendary long range heavy bomber reinforces the heavy bomber gap in the British tree in the next major update!Washington B.1: A Long Range Bomber for Great Britain at Rank VAt a glance:

• 20,000 lbs of ordnance!
• Remote controlled weapon stations
• Solid defensive weapon coverage
• High altitude performance

 Vehicle HistoryIn the later part of the 1940s, Great Britain found themselves in need of a drastic modernization of their bomber fleet. The Avro Lincoln was the current apex of the Royal Air Force in terms of heavy or strategic bombing, but it was wholly insufficient to keep up with Britain’s ambitions to become a nuclear power and retain long range strike capabilities in the new jet age. While promising new designs such as the English Electric Canberra, Short Sperrin and even the very early concepts of the V bombers (Vulcan, Victor and Valiant) were beginning to make progress on paper, it was clear that no real replacement for the Lincoln would be ready until well past the first quarter of the 1950s. The creation of NATO and the Mutual Defense Assistance Act (MDAA) of 1949 presented Britain with a clear solution to address all of these issues at once. This was to provide a proven, reliable and capable aircraft to strengthen and replace the Lincoln and provide a suitable stopgap until the early jet bombers would arrive into service. Large numbers of B-29s were being placed into reserve or storage in the US. For the RAF, this presented a perfect opportunity in bridging what would be a key military gap without diverting key development or funding away from the continued work on its own domestic designs that were already in progress.  A total of 87 B-29s were acquired this way, officially named “Washington” in RAF service, with deliveries starting from March 1950. Although they would never fire a shot or drop a bomb “in anger”, they provided a key deterrence for the RAFs Bomber Command between 1950 - 1954.They were phased out upon arrival of the Canberra and with the V-Bombers now fully on track. The Washingtons were largely unmodified in their main role, however some would go on to have turrets and bombing equipment removed for Electronic signals intelligence and to monitor Soviet communications. They went on in that role until the Washingtons were officially replaced by the Comet in 1958. Two examples found their way to the Royal Australian Air Force too, operated under the Aircraft Research and Development Unit for trials.  Introducing the Washington B.1!The “Superfortress” is a long established American stalwart heavy in War Thunder, alongside its Soviet and Chinese Tu-4 cousins. However today, we welcome a lesser known guise of the famous B-29, in the British Washington B.1! Let’s take a closer look at this beast.The British air tree had quite a large bomber gap between the Avro Lincoln at rank IV all the way to the Canberra family, which are several whole Battle Ratings higher than them. Fortunately, a very historical and appropriate solution exists! Britain took charge of 87 aptly named “Washington” bombers (ex-US B-29s) in the 1950s in order to cover this very gap in real life. This provided the Royal Air Force with an excellent long range and highly capable replacement over the Lincoln as a heavy strategic bomber.As far as payloads go, the Washington remains among the best in game. It has the highest payload options found in the British air tree and beaten out only by the Tu-4, F-111A and more recently, the gigantic B-52 and Tu-95. The Washington offers up to 40 x AN-M64 500 lb bombs, or up to 18 x AN-M65 1000 lb, 8 x AN-M66 2000 lb or 4 x AN-M56 4000 lb bombs. That’s a maximum possible load of 20,000 lb! It’s not all about what it can carry too. Unlike the more conservative approach of British heavy bombers, the Washington has no less than five weapon stations, remotely controlled by crew all over the aircraft. In terms of survivability and defensive protection, Washington is among the best.  For such a large beast, the Washington has decent flight characteristics and far superior altitude performance compared to what you may be used to in the British air tree with the Lancasters and Lincoln. Four powerful Wright R-3350 engines provide a top speed of over 600 km/h (370 mph) and a maximum altitude that far exceeds any of the bombers before the Washington in the British tree. For the range and fuel the aircraft provides, no mission is too much to handle!This behemoth will join the ranks of the British air tree in the next major update, finding its home at rank V before the Canberra family. A worthy stablemate to help bridge the gap as well as providing British pilots with a highly capable bomber with an immense payload. Until the next one, stay tuned for more coming soon to War Thunder!Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.

Today we’d like to cover the improved aircraft damage models and new multifunctional display screens (MFD) that we’re preparing for the next War Thunder update.More Detailed Aircraft Damage ModelsOur work on each update not only involves creating new vehicles, but also bringing existing vehicles up to modern War Thunder standards. As you may have noticed, new aircraft and helicopters feature detailed renderings of internal modules and systems, with cues indicating what happens when a module is damaged. But all the while, we’re also simultaneously upgrading the damage models of existing vehicles to this standard. To achieve this, our model designers once again return to their favorite vehicles already conquering the skies of War Thunder. The developers study detailed blueprints, photographs to meticulously model and correctly place internal modules.In the next update, we’re preparing detailed internals and improved damage models for over 80 (!!!) vehicles in the game, and we’re sure your favorites will be there too!New MFD ScreensYep, air combat is becoming increasingly complex. We’re always working on new radar systems, targeting algorithms, and of course, new advanced weapons. In the next major update, we’ll keep working on new screens and features for multifunction displays (MFDs) in aircraft cockpits so that you can use the new high-tech additions in an even more authentic way.Among other features, pilots can look forward to LANTIRN targeting pod screens for the F-14B, F-15, and F-16 fighters, an ATFLIR pod screen for the some of the F/A-18 family members, a radar screen, and an AGM-65 air-to-ground missile screen for the F-4 Phantom II. Flight instrument and engine screens will be added for the Z-10 and Z-19 series helicopters, and the EC-665 Tiger will receive a weapons targeting page on the right display.

On June 1st 1911, the first air squadrons were established in the Ottoman Empire. They were used for reconnaissance and bombing during the Balkan Wars of 1912-13, one of the earliest combat uses of aircraft. Today, the Turkish Air Force is one of the largest in NATO, with between 250 and 300 combat aircraft, primarily F-16 fighters. The T129 and F-104S TAF have a 50% discount and are available to purchase for 4,635 Golden Eagles each! 

When: From June 1st (11:00 GMT) until June 4th (11:00 GMT).Where: Italy > Helicopters / Aviation > Premium Vehicles.

• Both vehicles will remain available to purchase at full price after the promotion ends.

 About these aircraft

• The T129 (rank VI) is a Turkish attack and reconnaissance helicopter developed by Turkish Aerospace based on the Italian Agusta A129 and in service with the Turkish Air Force since 2014. Unlike the Italian version, which is armed with Hellfires, the T129 is armed with domestically produced L-UMTAS and CIRIT guided missiles. It also features a 20 mm forward-firing cannon and can carry Stinger air-to-air missiles and FZ49 unguided rockets. 
• The F-104S (rank VII) was purchased by Turkey from Italy in the 1960s and 70s to bolster its air force during its gradual transition to the F-16. The F-104S is an extremely fast aircraft with access to a wide range of ordnance, from bombs of various calibers and incendiary tanks to Mighty Mouse and Zuni rockets and AIM-9P and AIM-7E air-to-air missiles.

Open the “Turkish Air Force Day” trophy!

When: From June 1st (11:00 GMT) until June 4th (11:00 GMT).Task: Earn 3,000 mission points in battles where you used any aircraft from any nation at rank III or higher to receive the “Turkish Air Force Day” trophy!

Inside this trophy, you’ll receive one of three decals:“Turkish Air Force Day” decal“Emblem of the Turkish Air Force Command” decal“Emblem of the Turkish Air Force Pilots” decalThe “Turkish Air Force Day” decal is located in the “Holidays” section in the vehicle customization menu. The “Emblem of the Turkish Air Force Command” and “Emblem of the Turkish Air Force Pilots” decals are located in the “Neutral Countries → Aviation” section in the vehicle customization menu. If you already have all three decals, you’ll receive a trophy containing one of the following items:

• 20-50% Research Point booster for 3-10 battles
• 20-50% Silver Lion booster for 3-10 battles
• 3-5 universal backups
• 1 day of Premium account

Please note: After finishing the task, you need to collect the reward manually.

Additional details:

• You can complete the task in random battles, except for \ mode.
• Track your progress in the hangar by clicking Nickname → Achievements → Holidays → Turkish Air Force Day

The Spitfire Mk V was one of the most widely produced British fighters in the Second World War. It entered service in 1941 and served until the end of the war, taking part in D-Day. However, it also had an experimental, little-known floatplane version, planned for use on the Mediterranean front. Participate in the new event and receive a unique aircraft and decals dedicated to the Royal Air Force!

From June 3rd (11:00 GMT) until June 15th (11:00 GMT), earn mission points in Air, unlock stages and receive rewards!

Spitfire Mk Vb (Float) — A Premium Fighter for Great Britain at Rank IIThe floatplane version of the Spitfire Mk Vb required some design changes, such as a new four-bladed propeller and a larger stabilizer. In War Thunder, it will be the fastest floatplane in the game, well-armed, and performs well in all game modes. Behind the controls of this legendary British aircraft is none other than Nigel himself as the pilot. He is the hero of numerous War Thunder memes, whose model we’ve specially returned to this floatplane Spitfire!  “Emblem of No. 2 Squadron RAF” decal “Emblem of No. 26 Squadron RAF” decal“Emblem of the 2nd Tactical Air Group” decalAmong the rewards in the event is also this chest. When opened, there is a chance to receive one of the following items:

• 50,000 - 100,000 Silver Lions
• Silver Lion and Research Point boosters
• Random Wagers and Orders
• Universal Backups (1 - 3)
• A random camouflage for a vehicle you own
• 1 day of Premium Account

How to get all rewardsEach stage can be obtained for 30,000 mission points, where every new stage obtained will give you a new reward.

Please note: After finishing a stage, you need to collect the reward manually. To do this, click on your name in-game, go to “Wings Over Water: Spitfire Mk Vb (Float)” and click the “Get Reward” button.

You’re able to earn mission points in Air Battles at Rank III or above in Arcade, Realistic and Simulator Battles. The number of mission points to complete a stage depends on the game mode and the maximum Rank of the vehicle that you use in battle. There’s a multiplier for earning mission points, which is shown in the task description in-game. You can also earn mission points by using event vehicles that are Rank I and II. Event vehicles that can be used have the name of the event that they were obtainable in on their stat card.

Stages change every two days at 11:00 GMT on June 5th, 7th, 9th, 11th and 13th.

Rewards are given when you complete a specific number of stages

• For 1 Stage: trophy with a random reward
• For 2 Stages: one of the decal rewards
• For 3 Stages: trophy with a random reward
• For 4 Stages: one of the decal rewards
• For 5 Stages: “Emblem of the 2nd Tactical Air Group” decal
• For 6 Stages: non-tradable coupon for the Spitfire Mk Vb (Float)

Discounts on purchasing stages using Golden EaglesUnfinished stages can be purchased for Golden Eagles, but If you’re significantly close to completing a stage, its price will now be significantly reduced.Let’s say you have earned 85% of the required mission points to complete a stage, then the price of purchasing this stage will be halved. If you’re near the finish line for a stage and are at 95% progress, then the price will be reduced by five times. For example, if you’ve scored 26,000 mission points, then the price for unlocking this stage will be 299 Golden Eagles. If you’ve scored 29,000 mission points, then you’ll only need 119 Golden Eagles. Remember to keep this in mind if you cannot complete a stage on time!The Coupon UpgradeWhen you complete 6 stages, you’ll receive a non-tradable coupon for the Spitfire Mk Vb (Float), where using it will immediately activate the vehicle onto your account. If you don’t want the vehicle and would like to sell the coupon on the Market, you’ll need the “Upgrade for coupon” item.

The “Upgrade for coupon” item can be earned in parallel with the stages throughout the event from June 3rd (11:00 GMT) until June 15th (11:00 GMT) for 500,000 mission points.

After receiving the “Upgrade for coupon” item, you can convert a non-tradable coupon for the vehicle into a tradable one and sell it on the Market. The tradable coupon can be sold after 6 days from the moment it’s created.

To make a tradable coupon, select the “Coupon Spitfire Mk Vb (Float) (Great Britain)” in your inventory and click the “Modify” button.

The “Upgrade for coupon” item is valid until 11:00 GMT on June 19th. Until this time, you can use it or exchange it for War Bonds. Afterwards, it’ll disappear from your inventory.You can track the progress of completing stages and receiving the “Upgrade for coupon” by clicking on your Nickname > Achievements > Wings Over Water. If you don’t manage to complete a stage on time or would like to purchase a stage, until June 19th from the Achievements window, you can purchase each stage with Golden Eagles which will give you the corresponding rewards.

Welcome to the 226th War Thunder Steam Screenshot Competition!

Thanks for submitting all of your fantastic screenshots last week, we enjoyed getting to take a look at them! This week, your screenshots must feature a body of water such as lakes, rivers, or oceans. Any vehicle can be used, whether you have an amphibious vehicle in the water, or are flying by. The three most popular and three selected by us will get 300 GE. See the winners down below!

Let’s begin the 226th edition of our competition!

Create a stunning screenshot and submit it on the War Thunder Steam Community Hub with the tag #WTscreen226. You have time until the 5th 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.

How to Participate!

Terms:

• Your screenshot must include a body of water.
  
• You must add the #WTscreen226 tag (title cannot have any other text in it).
  
• Artists may only win by popular vote once per four screenshot competitions.
  
• 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.
  

And now, time for the winners of the competition’s 225th edition – High Impact!

Winners selected via community votes:
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3732603512
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3731542347
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3732327311

Winners selected by our judges:
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3733346571
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3731858556
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3732583476

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

Aircraft

• B-52H — a bug that made it impossible to switch to the gunner if the “Camera from aircraft gunner sight” setting was disabled has been fixed. (Report).

Sound

• Technical support for sound mods is ready. First, we need to do some additional testing in the WIP client before enabling sound mods in the main client. But right now you can use sound mods by turning on the “Use ‘Work-in-Progress’ client” in the launcher.

Graphics

• An issue that caused graphical artifacts to appear when using NVIDIA graphics card driver version 610.47 has been fixed.

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.

The Palmaria is an Italian self-propelled howitzer developed in the late 1970s and early 1980s by OTO Melara primarily for foreign operators on the basis of the OF-40 main battle tank.Palmaria: A Tank Destroyer (SPG) for Italy at Rank IV At a glance:

• Powerful 155 mm howitzer
• OF-40 chassis
• Large profile
• Devastating HE shells

 Vehicle HistoryDevelopment of the Palmaria began in the late 1970s with OTO Melara starting an independent venture to develop a mobile artillery unit on the basis of the OF-40. This was to capitalize on its design expertise and compete in the international artillery market at a time when many nations sought modern, mobile 155 mm systems compatible with NATO standards. Rather than being designed for large-scale adoption by the Italian Army, Palmaria was conceived as a commercially viable platform tailored to foreign customers seeking long-range fire support without the cost of more complex Western systems.The vehicle mounted a 155 mm L41 howitzer in a fully rotating turret on a highly mobile chassis derived from the OF-40, providing good mobility and protection for its crew of five. It was capable of firing standard NATO 155 mm ammunition, including high-explosive and base-bleed rounds, with a maximum range of approximately 24–30 kilometers depending on ammunition type. An automated loading system and onboard ammunition storage improved sustained rate of fire compared to many contemporary systems. The first prototype of the Palmaria was built and tested in 1981.Serial production started in the following year with the principal customer being Libya, placing an order for the system in the 1980s for over 200 units. Other operators include Nigeria, which placed an order for 25 vehicles as well as Argentina who only obtained the turret module, later fitting it to the TAM chassis to create a partially domestic alternative.Introducing Palmaria!In today’s devblog, we’ll take a close look at one of the hard punchers arriving to War Thunder with the next major update: the Italian Palmaria SPG! Comparable to other nation’s SPGs at this rank, Palmaria gives Italian players access to a modern artillery system with a standard 155 mm NATO howitzer, slinging HE rounds powerful enough to send even the most heavily protected opponent back to the hangar. Eager to find out more about it? Then let’s take a closer look!Palmaria represents the Italian engineers’ pragmatic response to a growing demand for modern self-propelled guns on the international defense market. As such, designers adopted the design of the available NATO standard FH-70 howitzer, fitted it to a purpose-built fully rotatable turret and chose the proven OF-40 main battle tank as the chassis to carry the system into combat. As such, Palmaria’s calling card is the massive 155 mm howitzer, capable of striking opponents with lethal accuracy and damage potential thanks to its access to several HE shells. Solid heavy shells ensure that any hit to a less protected area of Palmaria’s opponents will likely result in an immediate incapacitation if not outright doom.However, as with similar vehicles of this type, Palmaria represents a true glass cannon being unfit to be thrown head first into intense gun duels. Fitted with only thin armor plating, Palmaria cannot withstand blows from much more than machine gun or autocannon fire at longer distances. You can however use Palmaria’s excellent mobility inherited from the venerable OF-40 main battle tank to cover ground quickly on the battlefield and ensure to always be one position ahead of an enemy attack in order to avoid drawing too much attention to yourself!That’s it for this one! Palmaria will become available for research to all tankers as part of the Italian ground forces tree with the release of the next major update. Until then, be sure to keep a close watch on the news to stay in the loop on what’s coming next to the game. Happy tanking and good hunting!Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.

It’s time for the Pro League Major II Playoffs of the 2026 season!The final 8 teams have fought their way through the qualification stage and are now ready to battle in the ultimate phase of the competition. With everything on the line, each squad will be looking to prove themselves and claim their spot at the top.This decisive stage will be played in intense 4v4 Top Tier Jet mode, where versatility, coordination, and adaptability will be the keys to victory. With a share of the 525,000 Golden Eagle prize pool, 5000 euros cash prize and exclusive rewards up for grabs, the stakes have never been higher.Who will rise above the rest and emerge as the champion of Pro League Major II? Let’s find out!Qualified TeamsInvictus is a newly formed European roster bringing together experienced competitors and rising mechanical talent. Created with the ambition of competing across every WTCS format, the team focuses heavily on synergy and high-level performance.FiveSticks is a team that keeps defying expectations. Known for their deep runs through elimination brackets and their growing confidence major after major, they are steadily building toward the top.AVReS is a Russian roster formed from the former xHide aviation core, now strengthened within the AVReS organization. After securing a strong 3rd-place finish in 2025, the team returns with even bigger ambitions.
Since the last Air Superiority Major 2025, Ouroboros have continued to make a name for themselves. A formidable competitor in the weekly tournament format, they have consistently proven their strength against some of the best teams in the scene.However, their 6th-place finish left a bitter taste, and they are highly motivated to bounce back and secure a spot on the podium at this second Major.With their determination and experience, Ouroboros will be a team to watch throughout the competition.We wish them the best of luck!LEGION is a young but ambitious international roster competing under the Covert Esports banner. Built around a close group of friends and strengthened by key additions this season, the team combines strong chemistry with growing competitive experience.
Does this team ring a bell? Take a closer look at their roster of veterans and seasoned competitors who have been performing at the highest level in the War Thunder esports scene for years!Formed in 2026, Team JinX quickly established itself as one of the strongest contenders in the competition. With a lineup packed with experience and talent, they have consistently delivered impressive performances throughout the season.Currently sitting 4th in the overall standings, Team JinX is determined to climb even higher and prove they have what it takes to challenge the very best!Voyager, runners-up of the WTCS 2025 season, are known for delivering when it matters most. After an incredible comeback to secure 1st place during last weekend’s Grand Finals, they enter this Major with momentum and one clear objective: winning it all.Despite a difficult start to the season, they have managed to stay in contention and remain serious title contenders. With their experience, resilience, and ability to perform under pressure, Voyager cannot be overlooked.As the competition intensifies, they will be looking to build on their recent success and prove they have what it takes to go one step further this season.ORION is a new team entering the competition with a fresh roster, built from players with experiences across several past teams. While the team has only been playing together for around a month, several members have known each other for years, giving ORION a strong foundation to grow from.
 Live Streams & Twitch DropsWatch the event on May 30th-31st and June 6th-7th starting 14:40 GMT on the official English, German, French, Polish and Russian War Thunder Esports channels and receive:Weekend 1: May 30th - 31st

• 5 Backups — 1h watchtime
• 1 Day of Premium — 3h watchtime
• “Golden Dragon” decal — 5h watchtime
• F8F-1 “Black Cat” camouflage — 7h watchtime

Weekend 2: June 6th-7th

• 5 Backups –— 1h watchtime
• 1 Day of Premium — 3h watchtime
• “Tree… Tree! TREE!!!” decal — 5h watchtime
• Su-33 “Wolverine” camouflage — 7h watchtime

“Golden Dragon” decal“Tree… Tree! TREE!!!” decalLogin to your Twitch account → link your Gaijin account → click “Allow” to be able to receive Twitch Drops!You can also watch the event live on our YouTube channel War Thunder Esports!You’ll also find highlights and replays of all the matches there. FOLLOW ON TWITCHFOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Discord GiveawaysDuring WTCS 2026 Challenger Major I, join the Official War Thunder Esports Discord server to connect with fellow competitive players and take part in exclusive giveaways featuring the following packs: Discord:

• AH-64DJP Pack
• ZTZ96B Pack
• Vickers GBT155 Pack
• Alpha Jet A Pack

 Twitch:

• 10x Esports Bundle - 2026 Season, dropped exclusively on our Twitch channel randomly during the show.

Don’t miss your chance to win these incredible rewards while engaging with the competitive community! Stay ConnectedMake sure to follow us on our social media channels to stay updated with match schedules, highlights, exclusive content, and future events on X and Instagram. Join the community, support your favorite team, and be part of the action throughout the entire 2026 season! Esports Bundle - 2026 SeasonEsports Bundle - 2026 Season -15%To get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store.This pack includes:

• Esports Veteran Pack - Season 2026
• Winter Warrior Esports Pack - Season 2026

15.98 13.58

Today we’re launching pre-orders for the premium version of the American M60A1 RISE (P) tank.Pre-order: M60A1 Predator PackTo get to the Gaijin Store through Steam, go to the in-game hangar > Shop > Online Store.59.99This pack includes:

• M60A1 Predator (Rank VI, USA)
• Premium account for 15 days
• 2000 Golden Eagles
• Pre-order bonus: unique title “Desert Predator”
• Pre-order bonus: “Arizona Desert hairy scorpion” decal

M60A1 PredatorThe M60A1 Predator is a premium version of the American M60A1 RISE (P) tank, developed under the RISE (Reliability Improvement of Selected Equipment) program, which aimed to improve the vehicle’s reliability and survivability. The M60A1 RISE (P) saw extensive service with both the U.S. Army and the United States Marine Corps, becoming one of the most widespread and long-serving modifications of the M60 series. This version features a unique appearance inspired by U.S. Army M60A1 tanks used during Operation Desert Storm in Kuwait in 1991.The M60A1 Predator is armed with a 105 mm M68 cannon. Its ammunition load includes HEATFS, HESH, APDS, APFSDS and smoke shells. The tank is additionally equipped with smoke grenade launchers and a thermal smoke generation system.​

The first prototype of the Milan (Kite) jet fighter took to the air on May 29th 1970. It was easily recognizable by its “whiskers”: small forward canards on the sides of the nose which extended during takeoff and landing to improve performance. The Milan is temporarily available to purchase at a 30% discount for 6,363 Golden Eagles! 

When: From May 29th (11:00 GMT) until June 1st (11:00 GMT).Where: France > Aviation > Premium vehicles

• The Milan will return to purchase and remain available after the promotion ends at the full price of 9,090 Golden Eagles.

 About this aircraft

• The Milan is equipped with a powerful engine, providing it with high speed and maneuverability at low and medium speeds. 30 mm cannons, a guided air-to-surface missile, and a ballistic computer for unguided bombs make it an excellent choice for ground attack!

Today we’re taking a look at an exotic combat vehicle from Singapore, built for speed, with a 30 mm Bushmaster and Spike ATGMs!Hunter AFV: A Light Tank for Israel at Rank VIIAt a glance:

• Spike-LR II ATGM
• 30 mm Bushmaster II cannon
• Unmanned turret
• High speed forwards and backwards
• Lightly armored

 Vehicle HistoryThe Singapore Hunter infantry fighting vehicle was developed by ST Kinetics in collaboration with the Defense Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) and entered service in 2019. Development of the vehicle began in 2006 with the aim of replacing the aging M113 armored personnel carriers, which had been in service since the 1970s.In 2017, the Singapore Ministry of Defense awarded ST Kinetics a contract for serial production of the vehicle, which was officially designated the Next Generation Armored Fighting Vehicle (NGAFV) and later renamed the Hunter AFV. The prototype was first unveiled at the 2018 Singapore Airshow, and serial deliveries of the Hunter began in 2019. In June 2019, the Hunter was officially accepted into service, with the 42nd Battalion of the Singapore Armored Regiment becoming the first unit to receive the new platform.The first battle group equipped with these vehicles was declared operationally ready by March 2022. The Hunter AFV is expected to remain in service with the Singapore Army for many years to come.Introducing the Hunter AFV!The modern Singaporean Hunter IFV will join the game at Rank VII in the Israel ground forces tech tree in the upcoming major update! This vehicle promises to be quite interesting, featuring good mobility, Spike ATGMs, and an autocannon in an unmanned turret. Let’s see what this hunter is all about!The Hunter AFV is built on a tracked chassis with a Rolls-Royce diesel engine and an 8-speed reversible transmission, allowing the vehicle to move backwards and forwards at a maximum of 70 km/h. The Hunter’s good power-to-weight ratio also makes it a compelling choice, allowing it to accelerate quickly and engage in combat from cover.All three crew members are located in the hull, with the armament being housed in an unmanned turret. When playing this vehicle, you’ll have access to the Spike-LR II ATGM, which operate on the fire and forget principle and are effective against helicopters and tanks. For the main armament, the Hunter AFV features a 30 mm Bushmaster II Mk.44 cannon with versatile belts for various types of targets. Complementing the firepower is a thermal imager for all crew members and an automatic target tracker, which is great for aiming at low-flying air targets.

Dev Note: As mentioned last year in a Community Update news, Singapore’s ground vehicles will be distributed among various in-game nations, taking into account the characteristics and needs of both the vehicle itself and the nations where it might be added. These characteristics could be technical or gameplay related. For example, the Hunter AFV’s weapon module is Israeli-made, and Israel has virtually no variety of light support combat vehicles in War Thunder. Therefore, we believe the Hunter AFV will be a welcome addition to current and future vehicle lineups for Israel.

Alright folks, that’s this one done! The fast and well-armed Hunter IFV will be waiting for you in the next major update update. Until then, stay tuned as we have a lot of new and exciting additions on the way!Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.

Today we’re talking about new retargeting mechanics for some munitions with TV and IR homing heads!In the second half of the 20th century, technological advances led to the development of munitions with TV and infrared homing heads operating on the “fire and forget” principle. This reduced the time the carrier spent in the air defense zone and also enabled the simultaneous engagement of multiple targets. While this is a positive development, the growing capabilities of anti-aircraft weapons and the rising cost of aircraft led to a growing need to launch missiles at ground targets from much greater distances. To address this issue and increase operational flexibility, bombs and missiles were developed with a data link channel to the carrier, transmitting images from the munition’s seeker and allowing to it retarget in flight. This functionality will be available in the upcoming major update!As you may know, munitions with TV and IR seekers with man-in-the-loop capabilities are already in the game, but they have been missing the ability to transmit images and receive corrections in flight for balance reasons. However, after internal testing of the mechanics, we concluded that the limited capabilities of these weapons, their availability to all nations in the game, the capabilities of air defense, and the reality of random battles allow us to add this interesting mechanic without negatively impacting balance.Let’s take a closer look at the specifics of man-in-the-loop mode of the TV and IR seekers in the game. It’s worth mentioning right away that this isn’t full manual control with direct control of the rudders. Correction is limited to target selection in flight — the operator can only designate a new target within the seeker’s field of view, and the autopilot will then automatically adjust course to engage it. It’s also worth keeping in mind the relatively low maneuverability of many munitions. In short, loop-the-loops with a missile or bomb aren’t possible, but dropping them into an enemy concentration and designating the desired target as they approach is perfectly doable.It’s also worth noting that signal transmission requires a clear line of sight between the munition and the launch vehicle. If terrain obscures the signal, the signal will be lost, and the launch vehicle will not receive images and the missile will be unable to receive commands until communication is restored. However, since guidance is still provided by the missile’s seeker, loss of communication with the launch vehicle will not prevent it from engaging an already acquired target, meaning that, if desired, the carrier aircraft can safely move beyond the terrain after successfully locking on to a target.A significant limitation on the ability to correct these types of munitions will be the number of data link channels. According to available data, the systems with man-in-the-loop capabilities featured in the game support guidance of only one munition at a time, so only the most recently launched missile or bomb can be retargeted. Combined with the relatively low speed of most of these types of munitions, this limitation makes intercepting currently guided missiles or bombs with advanced air defense systems a relatively simple task.GBU-53 (SDB II) guided bombPlease note that when this mechanic is added, it will only be available on air-launched missiles and bombs, such as the new GBU-53 (SDB II), as well as the existing AGM-84H, PGM-500/2000, Kh-59M, Spike ER, LMUR, SPICE-250, and some others. We currently have no plans to add this feature to ground vehicles for balance reasons.You’ll be able to see this mechanic in action very soon with the release of the upcoming major update! That’s all for now, and see you in the next dev blogs, folks!Please note that the specifics of this mechanic may be changed before it is added to the game.

 In Pages of History this month, you will find yourself at the center of events that took place in various theaters of war. From Normandy and Karelia, Libya and Lithuania: participate in battles while using vehicles linked to these historic battles and get some prizes!

From June 1st until June 30th, you will be able to participate in 8 tasks consecutively. Completing each task will grant you a trophy with a reward, completing all of the tasks will earn you a unique profile background! 

Profile background: Landing zone: NormandyGermany prepared the beaches of Normandy for a potential Allied landing, adding pillboxes, batteries, barbed wire, tank traps and minefields. Despite this, by the evening of June 6th 1944, all five beaches where Allied forces had landed had been captured and held. The heroism and bravery of the soldiers who fought on D-Day paved the way for the liberation of Western Europe and the swift end of the Second World War.You can purchase this profile background for Golden Eagles until July 3rd (11:30 GMT) without completing tasks. To find it, go to your Nickname → Achievements → Pages of History.Trophy reward for each taskCompleting each individual task will give you a trophy with one of the following rewards:

• 20-50% RP booster for 3-10 battles
• 20-50% SL booster for 3-10 battles
• 3-5 universal backups
• Premium account for 1 day
• A random ground vehicle camouflage (out of those that can currently be unlocked or purchased with Golden Eagles)

Other terms

• Tasks are available from 11:00 GMT until 11:30 GMT on the final day of each task.
• Tasks can be completed in random battles except for “Assault” mode.

You can read a detailed description of which task is for which day and check your overall progress by going to your Nickname → Achievements → Pages of History. June 1st — June 5thBattle of MidwayThe decisive naval battle in the Pacific theater of the Second World War took place from June 4th to 7th 1942. American cryptographic experts deciphered Japanese plans, allowing US forces to prepare for battle and catch the Japanese off guard. Japan lost four heavy aircraft carriers, one heavy cruiser, approximately 250 aircraft, and many well-trained pilots in the battle. June 5th — June 9thD-Day (Operation Overlord)D-Day, the Allied strategic operation which included the massive Normandy landings and the liberation of Paris, began on June 6th 1944. Simultaneously, Soviet forces conducted Operation Bagration on the Eastern Front, while Allied forces continued their advance through Italy, forcing Germany to widely disperse its resources. June 9th — June 12thKarelian OffensiveOn June 10th 1944, the Red Army launched a large-scale offensive against Finnish positions in two directions: Vyborg and Petrozavodsk. By the end of the summer, the USSR had consolidated control of Karelia and forced Finland to enter into negotiations; on September 19th, Finland signed a peace treaty with the USSR and sided with the Allies in the war. June 12th — June 15thBattle of Villers-BocageOn June 13th 1944, during the Battle of Normandy, the British 7th Armored Division attempted to outflank Caen from the southwest, but was suddenly fired upon by German Tiger tanks in the town of Villers-Bocage. Street fighting ensued, ending by evening when the British, fearing encirclement, retreated, losing several dozen vehicles. June 15th — June 18thOperation BattleaxeThe British offensive from Egypt into Libya to relieve the siege of Tobruk proceeded on three fronts, but only one was successful. On June 15th 1941, the British captured Fort Capuzzo. However, due to the failure of the coastal and desert offensives, the fort became encircled by Axis forces, forcing the Allies to retreat on June 17th. June 19th — June 23rdBattle of the Philippine SeaOn June 19th-20th 1944, the last major aircraft carrier battle took place between the US and Japanese fleets. Due to poor coordination of Japanese forces and the American superiority in tactics, pilot training, and air defense, the battle ended in a complete defeat for Japan, from which it never recovered for the rest of the war. June 23rd — June 27thBattle of RaseiniaiAt the beginning of Germany’s invasion of the USSR in 1941, one of the most brutal tank battles took place near Raseiniai in Lithuania. Soviet forces were disorganized and poorly coordinated, leading to their complete defeat. However, there was also room for individual heroism: a single disabled KV tank stopped German armored movement for over a day, knocking out a number of vehicles and anti-tank guns. June 27th — June 30thCase BlueOn June 28th 1942, the Wehrmacht launched a strategic operation in the southern USSR on two fronts: one part of Army Group South advanced on Stalingrad, the other on the Caucasus. Rostov-on-Don fell on July 24th, and on August 21st, a group of German Jägers made a demonstration march to the summit of Mount Elbrus. However, by the end of August, the advance on both fronts had stalled. Due to severely stretched communications and fuel shortages, the Wehrmacht failed to achieve its objectives and ultimately became bogged down at Stalingrad, where it ultimately lost the strategic initiative.

The Bf 109 fighter’s maiden flight took place on May 29th 1935, at Augsburg-Haunstetten Airfield. The aircraft demonstrated excellent performance and became the Luftwaffe’s primary fighter during the pre-war and early war years. Approximately 34,000 Bf 109s were produced, making it the most produced fighter aircraft in history.On June 1st 1939, the Fw 190, one of the best and most versatile German fighters of the Second World War, took to the skies for the first time. More than 20,000 variants of this fighter were produced between 1941 and 1945. The Fw 190 proved particularly effective in the air over the English Channel in 1941–42: its superiority over the Spitfire Mk.V at medium altitudes forced Great Britain to urgently modernize its aircraft fleet. It was the Fw 190 and Bf 109 that provided cover for German ships during Operation Cerberus.30% discount on several Bf 109 and Fw 190 variants! 

When: From May 28th (11:00 GMT) until June 2nd (11:00 GMT).

Bf 109s

• USA: Bf 109 F-4 (Rank III) for 1015 Golden Eagles
• Germany: Flegel’s Bf 109 A (Rank I) for 175 Golden Eagles
• Japan: Bf 109 E-7 (Rank II) for 700 Golden Eagles
• Italy: Bf 109 G-2 (Rank IV) for 3248 Golden Eagles
• Sweden: Bf 109 G-6 (Rank IV) for 3416 Golden Eagles

Fw 190s

• Japan: Fw 190 A-5 (Rank IV) for 2086 Golden Eagles
• USA: Fw 190 A-8 (Rank IV) for 2695 Golden Eagles
• USSR: Fw 190 D-9 (Rank IV) for 5194 Golden Eagles
• Germany: Fw 190 D-13 (Rank IV) for 3416 Golden Eagles
• Germany: Fw 190 A-5/U14 (Rank III) for 1120 Golden Eagles

The Soviet and Japanese versions of the Fw 190 can only be purchased during the promotion.The Bf 109 Z-1 is temporarily available to purchase for 2,980 Golden Eagles!

When: From May 28th (11:00 GMT) until June 2nd (11:00 GMT).Where: Germany > Aviation > Premium vehicles

• The Bf 109 Z-1 can only be purchased during the promotion.

About this aircraft

• The Bf 109 Z-1 (rank IV) is a unique twin-fuselage aircraft, literally cobbled together from two Bf 109s! It is extremely fast, capable of reaching speeds of up to 700 km/h, and at high altitudes, nothing compares. It is armed with four 30 mm cannons, better suited for close-range combat and can carry one 250 kg bomb, either high explosive or incendiary.

Meet the MAS 429, a pre-war Italian patrol boat with a small secret!MAS 429: A Patrol Boat for Italy at Rank IAt a glance:

• 76 mm gun
• Good mobility
• Low survivability

 Vehicle HistoryThe MAS 427-class gunboats were built in 1919 at the Società Veneziana Automobili Navali shipyard in Venice. Their primary purpose was to counter enemy torpedo boats and perform anti-submarine missions. The class consisted of three units: MAS 427, MAS 428, and MAS 429. The latter had a shorter hull than the first two, resulting in a smaller displacement.Despite being built in 1919, the boats entered service significantly later: MAS 427 and 428 were commissioned in 1925, and MAS 429 in 1927. By the end of the 1930s, all three boats were decommissioned: MAS 428 was scrapped in 1937, MAS 429 in 1938, and MAS 427 sank in 1929.Introducing the MAS 429!It has been a while since we’ve featured a Coastal fleet boat in a dev blog for an upcoming major update, and today we’re fixing that, for good reason! The MAS 429 is a pre-war patrol boat with a 76 mm gun, coming to Italy at rank I in the next major update. Shall we take a wee look?Right, that good reason mentioned above is of course that 76 mm gun! These are rare to find on Coastal fleet boats at rank I, and are unique to the game except for the Japanese Type 5! The Italian MAS 429 is armed with a 76 mm Ansaldo Model 1916 gun, which fires armor-piercing and high-explosive shells with impact and time fuzes. Additionally, a pair of 6.5 mm machine guns are mounted on the stern.The MAS 429 isn’t the most compact boat in the game, but it has no particular issues with maneuverability or speed. It can quickly reach just over 50 km/h and maneuvers freely in shallow water and can easily flit between cover.The MAS 429’s unique armament dictates a unique playstyle. Just a couple of well-placed hits from the 76 mm gun can be enough to sink virtually any small boat, but the long reload time forces you to be cautious and deliver powerful strikes either from cover or by taking advantage of the chaos of active combat. The MAS 429 itself is vulnerable to practically every weapon, from machine guns to autocannons. The lack of armor in its all-wooden hull exposes the small crew to all the perils of naval combat, so surprise will be the primary tactical tool for delivering devastating 76 mm shells to targets!Over, this one be. You’ll be able to give the MAS 429 a go with the release of the next major update. In the meantime, keep an eye on our news for more dev blogs coming your way!Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.

As the Second World War raged, Sweden established its National Security Forces on May 28th 1940. They are responsible for territorial defense, protecting infrastructure, securing airbases and ports, and assisting civilian services in emergency situations.The SAV 20.12.48 is temporarily available for 1,300 Golden Eagles!

When: From May 27th (11:00 GMT) until June 1st (11:00 GMT).Where: Sweden > Army > Premium vehicles.

• The SAV 20.12.48 is only available during the promotion.

About this tank

• The SAV 20.12.48 (rank III) features a shortened 120 mm naval gun with a portion of the naval autoloader. It fires a shot every 1.2 seconds, which is an impressive rate of fire for this caliber! The projectiles aren’t very fast, so use this vehicle’s mobility to get close to your enemies and deliver devastating blows from unexpected angles.

Get the “Swedish Home Guard Day” decal!“Swedish Home Guard Day” decal

When: From May 27th (11:00 GMT) until June 1st (11:00 GMT).Task: Earn 3,000 mission points in battles where you used Swedish vehicles at rank III or higher to receive the “Swedish Home Guard Day” decal! Please note: After finishing the task, you need to collect the reward manually. Additional details:

• You can complete the task in random battles, except for \ mode.
• Track your progress in the hangar by clicking Nickname → Achievements → Holidays → Swedish National Security Forces Day.
• You can find the decal in the “Sweden → Tanks” tab in the customization menu.

On May 27th 1958, the F-4 Phantom II fighter prototype made its maiden flight at McDonnell Airfield in St. Louis, Missouri. In the early 1960s, it set several speed and altitude records, after which it entered service with the US Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps. Phantoms were also purchased by Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, Greece, Egypt, Israel, Spain, Turkey, South Korea, and Japan. The F-4EJ ADTW is temporarily available to purchase at a 30% discount for 6,489 Golden Eagles, and will remain available after the promotion at the regular price! 

When: From May 26th (11:00 GMT) until May 30th (11:00 GMT).Where: Japan > Aviation > Premium vehicles

• The F-4EJ ADTW will return to being available to purchase at full price for 9,270 Golden Eagles after the promotion ends.

 About this aircraft

• The ADTW in the F-4EJ ADTW (rank VII) name stands for Air Development and Test Wing. These aircraft were used by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force as a test platform from the 1970s until 2021. The F-4EJ ADTW is a true all-rounder, capable of performing well in both air-to-air combat and ground attack missions thanks to its wide range of ordnance, ballistic computer, and countermeasures.

Today we’re launching pre-order offer for the German AFV Puma u14 wielding 30 mm cannon and Spike-LR II homing missiles. Pre-order: Puma u14 PackThis pack includes:

• Puma u14 (Rank VII, Germany)
• Premium account for 20 days
• 2500 Golden Eagles
• Pre-order bonus: unique title “Spearhead Force”
• Pre-order bonus: “Coat of arms of Allied Joint Force Command Brunssum” unique decal

Pre-order is available in our Gaijin store. Puma u14The Puma u14 is a premium version of the Puma VTJF, a modern German infantry fighting vehicle developed by the consortium PSM GmbH. The project was launched following the cancellation of the Marder 2 program and was aimed at creating a highly protected, mobile, and technologically advanced next-generation IFV. The unique appearance of this vehicle is inspired by a Puma from the 33rd Mechanized Infantry Battalion (Panzergrenadierbataillon 33) during military exercises conducted in 2022. The vehicle features additional decorative elements — wooden pallets and pieces of fabric attached to the hull — adding variety and individuality to its visual appearance. The Puma is armed with a 30 mm MK30-2/ABM automatic cannon paired with a 5.56 mm coaxial machine gun, and is also equipped with a Spike-LR II launcher. Its ammunition load includes armor-piercing rounds and high-explosive fragmentation shells with programmable airburst detonation. The vehicle is fitted with composite armor, providing a high level of protection for its class while still being capable of speeds of up to 70 km/h. The Puma IFV is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including a laser warning system, a laser rangefinder, thermal imaging devices for all crew members, and a UAV. Smoke grenades are also available.Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game. ​

Welcome to the 225th War Thunder Steam Screenshot Competition!

We enjoyed getting to see all of your screenshots! In this weeks competition, we would like to feature the heavy-hitting vehicles in War Thunder. Be sure to aim carefully, and bring a friend along to support you through long reloads! The three most popular and three selected by us will get 300 GE. See the winners down below!

Let’s begin the 225th edition of our competition!

Create a stunning screenshot and submit it on the War Thunder Steam Community Hub with the tag #WTscreen225. You have time until the 29th of May 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.

How to Participate!

Terms:

• Your screenshot must include a tank or ship with a caliber of over 130mm, or an aircraft with a caliber of 35mm or more.
  
• You must add the #WTscreen224 tag (title cannot have any other text in it).
  
• Artists may only win by popular vote once per four screenshot competitions.
  
• 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.
  

And now, time for the winners of the competition’s 224th edition – Fading Wrecks!

Winners selected via community votes:
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3726964845
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3727570087
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3727694570

Winners selected by our judges:
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3001583996
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3729824075
https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=3729255873

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