War Thunder, the popular free-to-play MMO combat flight simulator, has taken the gaming world by storm with its realistic gameplay and extensive collection of historic aircraft. One of the most exciting features of the game is the ability to use drones, which can be a game-changer in battle. However, getting your hands on these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) can be a challenge, especially for new players. In this article, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of acquiring drones in War Thunder, as well as provide tips and tricks to get the most out of them.
Understanding Drones in War Thunder
Before we dive into the process of getting drones, it’s essential to understand their role in the game. Drones are small, remote-controlled aircraft that can be used to scout out enemy positions, provide aerial reconnaissance, and even engage enemy aircraft. They are an invaluable asset to any aircraft or tank crew, offering unparalleled flexibility and situational awareness.
In War Thunder, drones are divided into three categories:
- Scout drones: These drones are designed for reconnaissance and are equipped with advanced sensors and cameras to gather intelligence on enemy positions.
- Attack drones: These drones are armed with missiles or rockets and are designed to engage enemy aircraft or ground targets.
- Electronic warfare drones: These drones are equipped with advanced electronic warfare capabilities, allowing them to disrupt enemy radar and communication systems.
Getting Your First Drone
So, how do you get your hands on a drone in War Thunder? The process is relatively straightforward, but it does require some effort and dedication. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your first drone:
Earning Research Points
The first step to getting a drone is to earn research points (RP) by playing the game and completing missions, battles, and events. Research points are the currency used to unlock new aircraft, tanks, and other vehicles, including drones.
To earn research points quickly, focus on the following:
- Complete daily missions and events, which offer bonus RP rewards.
- Participate in battles and earn kills, assists, and objective completions to earn RP.
- Use premium time to boost your RP earnings.
Unlocking the Drone Tech Tree
Once you’ve accumulated enough research points, you can unlock the drone tech tree. To do this, navigate to the “Research” tab in the hangar and select the “Drones” category. From here, you can see the various drones available, along with their respective RP costs.
Choosing Your First Drone
When selecting your first drone, consider the following factors:
- Role: Scout, attack, or electronic warfare? Choose a drone that fits your playstyle.
- Performance: Look at the drone’s speed, maneuverability, and sensors/camera quality.
- Cost: Choose a drone that fits within your research point budget.
For new players, we recommend starting with a scout drone, as they provide valuable reconnaissance capabilities and are relatively inexpensive.
Upgrading and Customizing Your Drone
Once you’ve unlocked your first drone, it’s time to upgrade and customize it to suit your needs. Here are some tips to get the most out of your drone:
Upgrading Sensors and Cameras
Upgrading your drone’s sensors and cameras can significantly improve its reconnaissance capabilities. Focus on upgrading the following:
- Sensor range: Increases the drone’s detection range and accuracy.
- Camera resolution: Improves the quality of the camera feed, making it easier to spot enemy targets.
Adding Munitions and Countermeasures
If you’ve opted for an attack drone, you’ll want to upgrade its munitions and countermeasures to increase its effectiveness in combat. Consider adding:
- Missiles or rockets: Increase the drone’s firepower and effectiveness against enemy aircraft.
- Countermeasures: Deployable countermeasures, such as flares or chaff, can help the drone evade enemy fire.
Paint Schemes and Decals
Customizing your drone’s appearance can be a fun way to express your personality and showcase your creativity. Choose from a variety of paint schemes and decals to give your drone a unique look.
Tips and Tricks for Drone Operators
Now that you have your drone, it’s time to master the art of drone operation. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your drone:
Drone Handling
Getting familiar with your drone’s handling is crucial to success. Practice flying, and learn to navigate through tight spaces and avoid obstacles.
Reconnaissance Techniques
When conducting reconnaissance, focus on the following:
- Use your drone’s sensors and cameras to gather intelligence on enemy positions.
- Avoid detection by flying low and fast, or using terrain to conceal your drone.
- Provide real-time intel to your team, using the in-game chat function.
Combat Tactics
When engaging enemy aircraft or ground targets, consider the following tactics:
- Use your drone’s munitions and countermeasures to attack or evade enemy fire.
- Work with your team to coordinate attacks and provide cover fire.
- Keep moving and avoid getting caught in a dogfight, as drones are fragile and easily destroyed.
Conclusion
Getting drones in War Thunder requires dedication and effort, but the rewards are well worth it. With the right drone and skills, you can become a valuable asset to your team, providing critical reconnaissance and support in battle. Remember to upgrade and customize your drone, practice drone handling and reconnaissance techniques, and stay flexible and adaptable in combat. Happy flying, and see you in the skies!
What are the different types of drones available in War Thunder?
Drones in War Thunder are classified into three main categories: reconnaissance, attacker, and bomber drones. Reconnaissance drones are designed for gathering intel on enemy positions and providing real-time feedback to players. Attacker drones are equipped with weapons and are meant to engage enemy aircraft and ground targets. Bomber drones, as the name suggests, are designed for delivering heavy payloads to enemy bases and installations.
Each type of drone has its unique characteristics, strengths, and weaknesses. For instance, reconnaissance drones are often lightweight and agile, making them difficult to catch, while attacker drones are more heavily armed and armored, but slower and less maneuverable. Bomber drones, on the other hand, are heavily loaded with ordnance and are typically escorted by fighter aircraft to ensure safe passage to their targets.
How do I unlock drones in War Thunder?
Unlocking drones in War Thunder requires players to research and purchase them using in-game currency and experience points. Each nation in the game has its own unique drone tree, and players must progress through the tree by researching and purchasing prerequisite aircraft and modifications. Drones are typically unlocked at higher tiers, requiring players to have already researched and purchased several aircraft and upgrades in their chosen nation’s tech tree.
Players can also unlock drones by completing specific tasks and achievements in the game, such as destroying a certain number of enemy aircraft or completing a set of missions. Additionally, some drones may be available as rewards for participating in special events or tournaments.
What are the benefits of using drones in War Thunder?
Using drones in War Thunder offers several benefits to players. For one, drones can provide valuable intel on enemy positions and movements, allowing players to make more informed decisions on the battlefield. Drones can also engage enemy aircraft and ground targets, supplementing the player’s own firepower and taking pressure off their own aircraft.
Additionally, drones can serve as a distraction, drawing enemy fire away from the player’s aircraft and allowing them to reposition or escape from dangerous situations. In some cases, drones can even be used to scout out enemy anti-aircraft defenses, revealing weaknesses that players can exploit to gain an advantage.
How do I control and maneuver drones in War Thunder?
Controlling drones in War Thunder is similar to controlling aircraft, with some key differences. Drones are typically controlled using the mouse or joystick, and respond to inputs in a similar way to aircraft. However, drones are often more agile and responsive than aircraft, requiring more precise and delicate control.
Players can also use keyboard shortcuts to issue commands to their drones, such as ordering them to attack a specific target or return to the player’s aircraft. Additionally, some drones have special abilities, such as the ability to hover in place or track targets, that players can activate using specific keyboard shortcuts.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when using drones in War Thunder?
One common mistake to avoid when using drones in War Thunder is failing to keep them repaired and maintained. Drones require regular maintenance to remain effective, and neglecting to repair them can leave them vulnerable to damage or destruction.
Another mistake is using drones inappropriately, such as sending an attacker drone into a heavy anti-aircraft zone or using a reconnaissance drone to engage an enemy aircraft. Players should always consider the strengths and weaknesses of their drones, as well as the situation on the battlefield, before deploying them.
How can I counter enemy drones in War Thunder?
Countering enemy drones in War Thunder requires a combination of air defense systems, anti-aircraft fire, and good old-fashioned piloting skills. Players should prioritize destroying enemy drones as soon as possible, using their aircraft’s guns, missiles, or other ordnance to take them down.
In addition to direct combat, players can also use tactics such as jamming or spoofing enemy drone signals to disrupt their operations. Some aircraft and modifications also have special abilities, such as drone-shield or anti-drone missiles, that can be used to counter enemy drones.
What are some advanced drone tactics and strategies in War Thunder?
Advanced drone tactics and strategies in War Thunder involve using drones in creative and unexpected ways to gain an advantage over the enemy. For example, players can use multiple drones to saturate an enemy’s air defenses, creating an opportunity for their own aircraft to attack.
Another advanced tactic is using drones to create a “drone screen” around the player’s aircraft, creating a protective barrier of drones that can absorb enemy fire or distract enemy aircraft. Players can also use drones to set up ambushes, luring enemy aircraft into a trap or surprise attack.