Today we’ll be taking look at the Italian MB-326K, with the model created by a War Thunder player!
MB-326K: A Strike Aircraft for Italy at Rank V
At a glance:
- Excellent maneuverability
- Large and varied payload
- 30mm cannons!
- Subsonic
- No ballistic computer
When the world’s air forces were actively transitioning to jet technology in the 1950s, Italian company Aermacchi, under the leadership of designer Ermanno Bazzocchi, proposed a compromise between specialized trainer aircraft and converted fighters. Developed in 1953, the MB-326 project combined the comfortable controllability of trainer aircraft with the combat potential of a light attack aircraft.
The prototype first took to the skies on December 10th 1957, equipped with a British Viper ASV.8 engine with 795 kgf of thrust. As early as 1960, deliveries of the pre-production batch to the Italian Air Force began, with large-scale production following shortly after in 1962. The basic version for the Italian Air Force had no armament, but the MB-326B export modification fitted with six underwing pylons became quite a success internationally.
In total, around 800 units of various modifications were produced, including licensed production in Brazil, South Africa, and Australia.
Introducing the MB-326K!
This versatile aircraft made quite a stir on the international military equipment market during the 1960s, and became the foundation of the jet aviation fleet of several nations. Say hello to the strike modification of the Aermacchi MB-326 trainer-combat aircraft! This interesting new machine will join rank V of the Italian air tree in the Spearhead major update, so let’s take a closer look!
The variant arriving to the game is the MB-326K version, which is a combat modification. Like all early jets, the MB-326K is subsonic, although even with a heavy load it can easily maintain a speed above 700 km/h at low altitudes. On top of this, it features fantastic controllability and excellent maneuverability for its class, which is vital for a strike aircraft!
Interesting: The MB-326K model was created by War Thunder player Vitaly “NovA29” Vostokov! We sincerely thank everyone involved in bringing this amazing aircraft model to the game!
While compact, the MB-326K is capable of carrying an impressive payload on its six hardpoints. You’ll be able to equip a wide range of classic weaponry, from various free-fall bombs of calibers between 250 and 500 lb, napalm bombs, and unguided rockets. Stock, the MB-326K features a pair of 30 mm DEFA 533 cannons, though you can also bolster the weaponry with several 7.62 mm miniguns, and two additional 30 mm cannons of the same type.
The MB-326K will be joining the beginning of rank V in the Italian air tree, and for many pilots this will be the first jet aircraft they encounter. As a strike aircraft, the MB-326K will be a strong addition to combined battles, fitting nicely into several lineups. In Air Battles, it can confidently wipe out ground targets and bases with its large arsenal, while also being able to effectively fight enemy aircraft thanks to its powerful frontal armament and excellent maneuverability, making it a very strong and forgiving entry point into jet combat.
The quick and nimble MB-326K will be available for research in the Spearhead major update, we’re still getting everything ready for release but we’re not far off! Stay tuned to the news and we’ll see you soon for more!
Please note that this vehicle’s characteristics may be changed before it is added to the game.
