War Thunder, the popular free-to-play massively multiplayer online combat flight game, has introduced a new dimension to aerial warfare with the addition of drones. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be a game-changer on the battlefield, providing reconnaissance, surveillance, and even attack capabilities. But how do you get your hands on one of these powerful assets? In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to acquire a drone in War Thunder and make the most out of it.
Why Drones are a Game-Changer in War Thunder
Before we dive into the process of getting a drone, it’s essential to understand why they’re so valuable in the game. Drones offer several advantages over traditional aircraft:
- Enhanced reconnaissance: Drones can scout out enemy positions, providing vital intel on their movements and deployment.
- Real-time surveillance: They can loiter above the battlefield, providing continuous video feed to their commanders.
- Precision strikes: Armed drones can engage enemy targets with precision-guided munitions.
- Cost-effective: Drones are generally cheaper than manned aircraft, making them an attractive option for players.
Requirements for Getting a Drone in War Thunder
To get a drone in War Thunder, you need to meet specific requirements:
- Rank: You must be at least Rank 5 (Lieutenant) in the game.
- Research: You need to have researched the necessary technologies in the game’s tech tree, including the “Drones” node.
- Currency: You require a sufficient amount of in-game currency, specifically 200,000 Silver Lions or 400 Golden Eagles.
Acquiring a Drone
Once you’ve met the requirements, follow these steps to acquire a drone:
Purchase a Drone from the Store
The most straightforward way to get a drone is to purchase one from the in-game store:
- Open the War Thunder store and navigate to the “Vehicles” tab.
- Select the “Drones” category and choose the drone you want to purchase.
- Click “Buy” to add the drone to your hangar.
Complete Drone-Related Tasks and Missions
Alternatively, you can complete specific tasks and missions to earn a drone:
- Check the in-game events and tasks available in the “Events” tab.
- Participate in drone-related tasks, such as reconnaissance or reconnaissance-bombing missions.
- Complete the tasks to earn rewards, including a chance to win a drone.
Mastering Drone Operations in War Thunder
Now that you have a drone, it’s essential to learn how to operate it effectively:
Drone Controls and Camera Management
Familiarize yourself with the drone’s controls and camera management system:
- Learn to navigate the drone’s camera views, including zoom, pitch, and yaw.
- Understand how to control the drone’s speed, altitude, and direction.
Tactical Deployment and Strategies
Develop tactics to get the most out of your drone:
- Reconnaissance: Use your drone to scout out enemy positions and movements.
- Area denial: Deploy your drone to deny enemy forces access to specific areas or routes.
- Coordinated attacks: Use your drone to provide targeting data for allied aircraft or ground forces.
Drone Maintenance and Upgrades
To keep your drone in top condition, you need to maintain and upgrade it regularly:
Repair and Refuel
- Regularly repair and refuel your drone to ensure it’s ready for deployment.
- Upgrade your drone’s propulsion, sensors, and weapons to improve its performance and capabilities.
Upgrade Paths and Modules
- Research and purchase upgrade modules, such as improved cameras, enhanced propulsion, or precision-guided munitions.
- Choose upgrade paths that align with your playstyle and strategies.
Conclusion
Getting a drone in War Thunder requires dedication, patience, and a willingness to learn and adapt. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to acquiring and mastering these powerful assets. Remember to always stay vigilant, adapt to changing battlefield conditions, and make the most of your drone’s capabilities. Happy flying!
What is the best way to get a drone in War Thunder?
To get a drone in War Thunder, you’ll need to research and purchase one from the in-game store using Golden Eagles, the premium currency. You can also earn drones as rewards for completing certain tasks or participating in events. Additionally, some drones can be obtained through special bundles or packs. It’s essential to note that drones are only available for certain nations and tiers, so make sure to check the specific requirements before purchasing.
It’s also important to consider the type of drone you want to get. War Thunder offers a variety of drones with different characteristics, such as reconnaissance, attack, or transport drones. Each type of drone has its unique abilities and playstyle, so choose the one that fits your gaming style. Moreover, some drones have specific modules that can be installed to enhance their performance, so be sure to check the available upgrades before making a purchase.
What are the different types of drones available in War Thunder?
War Thunder offers a range of drones with different roles and characteristics. Reconnaissance drones are designed for scouting and spotting enemy positions, while attack drones are equipped with weapons to engage enemy aircraft. Transport drones are used to transport supplies or repair equipment to allies. Some drones are also specialized for specific tasks, such as jamming enemy radar or deploying flares to distract missiles.
When choosing a drone, consider the playstyle and role you want to fulfill. Reconnaissance drones are ideal for spotting enemy aircraft, while attack drones are better suited for dealing damage. Transport drones can be extremely useful in supporting your team, especially in combined arms battles. Make sure to research and understand the capabilities of each drone type before making a decision.
How do I deploy my drone in War Thunder?
To deploy your drone in War Thunder, you’ll need to purchase or earn one and then select it in the hangar screen. From there, you can choose the drone’s payload and configure its settings. Once you’re in a battle, you can deploy your drone by pressing the designated key (default is ‘J’). Your drone will then spawn at your aircraft’s location, and you can control it using the mouse and keyboard.
When deploying your drone, make sure to consider the surroundings and potential threats. Enemy aircraft or anti-aircraft defenses can quickly destroy your drone, so be cautious when deploying it in hostile areas. Additionally, keep an eye on your drone’s fuel levels, as it will automatically return to your aircraft when it runs out. You can also recall your drone manually by pressing the designated key again.
Can I customize my drone in War Thunder?
Yes, War Thunder allows you to customize your drone with various modules and upgrades. These can be purchased using Golden Eagles or earned through gameplay. Modules can enhance your drone’s performance, such as increasing its speed, maneuverability, or durability. You can also install weapons or equipment, such as machine guns, rockets, or reconnaissance cameras.
When customizing your drone, consider its role and the mission you’re about to undertake. For example, if you’re planning to use your drone for reconnaissance, you might want to install a high-resolution camera or a module that increases its detection range. If you’re deploying an attack drone, you might want to add more powerful weapons or a module that improves its accuracy. Experiment with different combinations to find the setup that works best for you.
Can I control my drone manually in War Thunder?
Yes, in War Thunder, you can control your drone manually using the mouse and keyboard. Once you’ve deployed your drone, you can switch to manual control by pressing the designated key (default is ‘C’). This allows you to directly control the drone’s movements and actions, such as changing its altitude, speed, or direction.
Manual control can be useful in certain situations, such as when you need to navigate through tight spaces or avoid enemy fire. However, it also requires more skill and attention, as you’ll need to manage the drone’s speed, altitude, and orientation simultaneously. Make sure to practice manual control before using it in critical situations, as it can take some time to get used to.
How do I protect my drone from enemy fire in War Thunder?
To protect your drone from enemy fire in War Thunder, you can use various tactics and strategies. Firstly, try to deploy your drone in a safe location, away from enemy aircraft or anti-aircraft defenses. You can also use your drone’s speed and agility to evade incoming fire or makes quick escapes.
Another effective way to protect your drone is to use its abilities and modules to your advantage. For example, some drones have smoke bombs or flares that can distract or disrupt enemy missile systems. You can also install modules that improve your drone’s durability or reduce its radar signature, making it harder for enemies to detect or hit. Finally, be prepared to recall your drone quickly if it’s under attack, and have a plan to replace it with a new one if necessary.
Can I use my drone to support my team in War Thunder?
Yes, drones can be extremely useful in supporting your team in War Thunder. For example, reconnaissance drones can spot enemy positions, providing valuable intel to your teammates. Attack drones can provide suppressive fire or destroy enemy aircraft, while transport drones can repair or resupply allied vehicles.
To support your team effectively with your drone, make sure to communicate with your teammates about your drone’s capabilities and intentions. You can also use your drone to scout ahead, detect enemy ambushes, or provide cover for your teammates. By working together, you can create a powerful synergy that can turn the tide of battle in your favor.