Focus On… Focke Wulf – Ta 183

The design process for the Focke-Wulf Ta 183 fighter aircraft began around 1942 as ‘Project VI’. It was intended as the successor to the Messerschmitt Me 262, as it was clear by this point in time that plane designs that could not achieve transonic speeds would be unsuccessful.  This particular warplane was a prototype model that never made it to the production line, since Focke-Wulf factories were seized by British forces just before production was scheduled to begin. Although none were built, a wind tunnel model was produced towards the end of the war.

Hans Multhopp, designer of the Ta 183, holds a model of his plane.		Graphical study of the jet fighter, which remained a prototype.

The design was developed further after the war’s end and ultimately inspired the creation of both the Focke-Wulf Super Lorin and the Focke-Wulf Volksjäger. The original Ta 183 project was finally abandoned in 1953, due both to financial constraints and the availability of cheap, surplus F-86 Sabres left over from the Korean War effort. The unique sweptback wing design is echoed in planes of that era such as the MiG-15 and Saab 29, both of which may arrive in World of Warplanes sooner or later.

Since there are still only a few Tier IX fighters in the game, your queuing time may be a little longer when you choose the Ta 183. However, once you’ve entered the battle you’ll most likely find that you are the top tier aircraft and sometimes even the only jet fighter in the entire line-up. Flying such a high-tier aircraft means that you’ll have to engage in a different kind of play style. Be prepared to fight at altitudes of up to 3.5km and use the advanced jet design of the Ta 183 to outrun your foes – both horizontally on chase-downs and vertically when defending. Don’t let yourself get lured into dogfights though – Tier VIII piston fighters will make quick work of you with their superior turning capabilities.

If you do get into battles with aircraft of the same tier, don’t forget that despite the sturdy look of the Ta 183, you’re in a light fighter. When going up against heavy competition, you’ll need to use your superior manoeuvrability (e.g. the Ta 183’s very high roll-rate) to stay out of the line of fire, then re-angle and strike for an effective counter-attack.

Next time we’ll take a look at another one of the new Focke-Wulfs. Stay with us, pilots!