Hi everyone,
I would like to share a suggestion regarding the recent implementation of the F-14D Super Tomcat as a premium vehicle.
Adding the F-14D as a premium feels like a massive missed opportunity for the tech tree. The F-14D is the ultimate, most advanced variant of the Tomcat, and it deserves to be a researchable vehicle in the standard tech tree. Instead of locking it behind a paywall, it would make much more sense to place the F-14D in the tech tree at BR 13.3, equipped with AIM-9M missiles to match its historical capability and modern performance.
For the premium option, a much healthier, more balanced, and historically accurate alternative would be the F-14A (Late). It could be equipped with AIM-9L missiles and placed at a slightly lower battle rating.
Furthermore, from a historical standpoint, the famous Jolly Rogers (VF-84 / VF-103) livery that so many players love actually belongs to the F-14A and F-14B variants. The real-world Jolly Rogers never flew the F-14D variant. If the goal is to sell an iconic Tomcat with the skull-and-crossbones aesthetic, the F-14A (Late) fits perfectly.
By making the F-14D a premium, you are setting a highly dangerous precedent for the future of War Thunder. The F-14D is a top-tier, end-of-the-line aircraft. If the developers keep following this approach, what is stopping you from releasing a premium F-22 Raptor pack in the future? This completely ruins the incentive to grind and destroys top-tier matchmaking balance by flooding teams with players who have zero experience with complex radar and missile mechanics.
Moving the F-14D to the tech tree and introducing the F-14A (Late) as the premium alternative achieves two major goals:
It gives premium players a highly requested Tomcat experience without introducing end-of-the-line technology as a premium pack.
It preserves the iconic F-14D as a rewarding goal for players grinding through the standard tech tree.
I believe this change would be much better for the game’s long-term progression and matchmaking balance. Let me know what you guys think!