Hello everyone,
With 2026 already underway, many players are wondering what Gaijin might bring next. Here is my personal take on possible directions for the game this year and beyond, based on how War Thunder has been growing and balancing content lately.
Since the Soviets recently received the BUK-M3 and the Pantsir SM-SV, it seems logical that Gaijin would look at adding something like the Patriot system for the USA to restore balance. Right now the US feels like it lacks a truly powerful modern AAA/SPAA option at the highest tiers, so a strong counter like the Patriot could make top tier ground battles feel fairer again.
With more capable air defense systems in the game, it would make sense to introduce stronger aircraft that can better survive in such an environment. We could see additions like the **F-15EX, F-16V, Su-35S, MiG-35 and maybe even upgraded variants such as the J-16D. Along with these, improvements to radar performance, better BVR missile behavior, and some basic ECM mechanics would feel like a natural step forward. These changes would help prepare the game before full 5th generation fighters arrive.
Speaking of 5th gen jets, it looks unlikely we will get them in a big way this year. The game still needs a lot more testing and experimentation with stealth mechanics, radar cross-section, and how they interact with everything else. Maybe we could see a small number of them (like the F-22 and Su-57) added toward the very end of the year in the last major update, but a full and proper implementation of 5th generation aircraft probably won’t happen until 2028–2030.
The same goes for modern warships. Features with advanced radars, missiles, and rocket systems would be amazing, but bringing in real modern naval combat (including carriers with jets or submarines) is a long process. We are probably looking at gradual steps over many years, with a more complete modern naval experience possibly arriving around 2030.
Of course, these are just educated guesses. Gaijin might surprise us with different priorities or faster progress in some areas. The important thing is that the game keeps evolving in a way that stays fun and balanced for as many players as possible.