War Thunder

War Thunder saw a significant update with the introduction of the USS North Carolina Battleship on June 10, 2026, marking a major addition to the naval lineup. This update also included the launch of the F/A-18E Super Hornet in December 2025, enhancing the game's aircraft variety. Additionally, the Tusk Force Major Update in September 2025 brought in a wealth of new vehicles and gameplay improvements.

• New Content:
  • USS North Carolina added as a Rank VII American battleship with nine 406 mm guns.
  • F/A-18E Super Hornet introduced as a carrier-based fighter-attack aircraft.
  • Stalingrad Battlecruiser added, designed as a 'cruiser killer' with nine 305mm guns.
  • Tusk Force Major Update released, featuring new vehicles and gameplay enhancements.

• Gameplay Improvements:
  • Nuclear Strike Mechanics were reworked to use bombs of 5 and 30 kiloton yields, simplifying the strategic bomber requirement.
  • New Spawn Mechanic introduced, allowing players to spawn near squad members or at respawn points with increased risk.
  • Improved Salvo Firing Mechanics enabled faster target switching for guided weapons.

• Seasonal Events:
  • The Marine Gendarme Naval Event launched on May 20, 2026, allowing players to earn the Glaive and other rewards.
  • Pages of History: The Beaches of Normandy event took place from June 1 to June 30, 2026, offering historical battles and rewards.

• Balance Changes:
  • Enhanced Armor for M1A2C improved turret protection, making it more resilient in combat.
  • Adjusted Spawn Point Cost Calculation for aircraft with guided bombs to enhance balance.

• New Systems:
  • Man-in-the-Loop Guidance Mode for munitions introduced, allowing in-flight retargeting for air-launched weapons.

The introduction of the Yamato battleship on May 30, 2025, marked a significant highlight in War Thunder's Year 12, alongside the long-awaited inclusion of infantry into the game on March 31, 2025. This period also saw the arrival of powerful new vehicles, such as the F/A-18 Hornet and Su-30SM, expanding the air combat options for players.

• Major Content Drops:
  • Yamato Battleship launched on May 30, 2025, joining the naval roster.
  • Infantry Update added on March 31, 2025, enabling ground forces to engage in combined arms battles.
  • F/A-18 Hornet Pack pre-orders began on June 19, 2025, featuring the Swiss variant with advanced weaponry.
  • Moments of Valor: Brazil Bundle launched on September 7, 2024, offering discounted aircraft.

• New Vehicles and Aircraft:
  • HMS Warspite, a British battleship, was added on February 20, 2025.
  • New Ground Vehicles like the Tracked Rapier and 2S19M1/M2 were introduced on March 18, 2025.
  • RAH-66 Comanche Helicopter and F-2A Multi-Role Fighter were added on June 25, 2025.

• Gameplay Enhancements:
  • The Autonomous Operation of Launcher Vehicles mechanic was introduced on June 4, 2025, allowing missile launchers to function independently.
  • Maneuver Mode and Thrust Vectoring were added on March 18, 2025, enhancing aircraft agility.

• Balance Changes:
  • Upgrades to the ESA radar for several vehicles were implemented on July 29, 2025, improving tracking capabilities.
  • Increased explosive power for ASM-1 and ASM-2 missiles was noted on June 30, 2025.

• Seasonal Events:
  • The Normandy '44 Event launched on June 5, 2025, celebrating D-Day with themed rewards.
  • The Spirit of the Tempest Event began on May 22, 2025, introducing new aircraft and rewards.

The launch of the Persian Tomcat event on August 8, 2024, introduced the F-14A IRIAF as a main reward, marking a significant content drop for War Thunder. This event, along with the start of Season 16 of the Battle Pass, which featured the Sholef V.1 tank, provided players with new challenges and rewards. Additionally, the introduction of construction mechanics for ground vehicles allowed players to modify the terrain, enhancing gameplay strategies.

• New Vehicles:
  • The F-14A IRIAF fighter became available as part of the Persian Tomcat event.
  • The Alcione Gunboat was introduced, featuring advanced armaments and available in the Flight of the Albatross event.
  • The Sholef V.1 tank was added as a premium ground vehicle in the latest Battle Pass.

• Gameplay Mechanics:
  • New landscape modification mechanics allowed players to construct trenches and other terrain features.
  • Players could now create ammunition boxes and camouflage nets for tactical advantages in battles.

• Balance Changes:
  • Significant adjustments to APHE shells improved their secondary fragmentation and post-penetration effects, enhancing combat dynamics.
  • Various weapon and vehicle stats were recalibrated, including the radar systems for multiple aircraft, ensuring a balanced gameplay experience.

• Seasonal Events:
  • The Armored Apex 2024 tournament showcased competitive 4v4 tank battles, drawing in players for exciting esports action.
  • The July 4th Independence Day event featured unique rewards and discounts, celebrating the occasion within the game.

• New Shop Items:
  • The F-86F-35 Sabre and other premium vehicles returned for purchase during the window, alongside various discounts on select packs.