How to Use Torpedo Bombing in War Thunder

By Daniel Hidalgo | 2025-11-30 10:42:01
Torpedo bombers represent one of the most unique and devastating weapon systems in War Thunder, offering players the ability to single-handedly change the tide of a naval battle. However, successfully delivering a torpedo is a high-risk, high-reward maneuver that demands precision, patience, and tactical knowledge. This in-depth guide will break down the essential steps, from selecting your aircraft to landing the perfect hit on an enemy warship.

Choosing the Right Aircraft for the Job

Your first step to becoming an effective naval aviator is selecting a capable torpedo bomber. While many nations offer viable options, beginners should prioritize aircraft that balance performance, survivability, and a manageable battle rating.
  • Excellent Starter Picks: The Japanese B7A2 Ryusei and the French M.B.175T are highly recommended. These planes feature robust flight characteristics and are equipped with powerful torpedoes, all while sitting at an accessible battle rating (BR) of around 3.0, keeping you out of matches with the most advanced anti-aircraft defenses.
  • Nation Considerations: Explore the tech trees of the United States and Great Britain, which also field legendary torpedo bombers like the TBF Avenger and the Barracuda. Each nation's torpedoes have distinct performance stats, so your aircraft choice often dictates your tactical approach.

Understanding Your Primary Weapon: The Naval Torpedo

A torpedo is not a simple bomb; it is a complex, self-propelled underwater missile. Understanding its mechanics is non-negotiable for success.

  • Deployment and Arming: A torpedo is dropped from your aircraft into the body of water. For itto function correctly, it must survive the impact. Every torpedo hasspecific maximum drop parameters, including altitude and airspeed. Exceeding these limits will cause thetorpedo to "drown," sinking harmlessly to the bottom. Always check these stats in the hangar before a battle.
  • The Attack Run: Once successfully in the water, the torpedo's motor ignites, propelling it on a set course. It will arm itself after a short safety distanceand will detonate upon contact with an enemy ship's hull. The key is todrop within the safe parameters while also placing the torpedo on anintercept course with your target.

Executing the Perfect Torpedo Attack Run

This is where theory meets practice. A successful torpedo run is a delicate dance of positioning and timing.

  • Target Selection: Not all ships are ideal targets. Prioritize slow, large vessels likebattleships, heavy cruisers, and aircraft carriers. Their limitedmaneuverability makes them vulnerable. Fast-moving destroyers can bechallenging targets for novice torpedo bombers.
  • Approach Angle is Critical: Never fly directly at a ship's anti-aircraft (AA) defenses. The optimal approach is from the side (the beam) or, even better, from the front at a slight angle. This presents a harder target for gunners and maximizes the chance of a hit. The most dangerous approach is from the rear,where you must track the target for the longest time through its AAenvelope.
  • Maintain Standoff Distance: Resist the urge to fly low and slow directly over your target. Use your torpedo's effective range to your advantage. Drop from the maximumviable distance that still guarantees a hit. This gives you preciousseconds to evade after the drop and escape the wrath of the ship'sdefensive armament.
  • Lead Your Target: Just like with aerial gunnery, you must lead your target. Account forthe ship's speed and direction, as well as your torpedo's relativelyslow travel time. Drop the torpedo so it intersects the point where theship will be, not where it is now.
  • By mastering these fundamentals—aircraft selection, torpedo mechanics, and tactical approach—you will transform from a vulnerable pilot into afeared hunter of the high seas, capable of delivering a decisive blow to the heart of the enemy fleet.

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