Mastering the skies of War Thunder requires more than just quick reflexes; it demands a strategic approach to progression. Understanding how to get better planes in War Thunder is the single most effective way to transform frustrating losses into satisfying victories, turning the tide of battle with superior technology and capability.
Earning and Researching the Right Path
The foundation of a strong lineup lies in the research tree. Every aircraft you fly contributes to unlocking the next, creating a satisfying vertical slice of aviation history. To optimize this, prioritize aircraft that share components like engines or wings, as research times are significantly reduced when you partially research multiple planes in the same branch. Furthermore, always complete the pilot training missions for new nations, as they provide a substantial free tech tree boost and introduce you to the unique characteristics of that country's aviation doctrine.
Mastering the Battle Rating System
Battle Rating (BR) is the invisible hand that shapes your matches, and understanding it is critical for progression. Flying a plane significantly below the recommended BR guarantees a one-sided stomp where you will face top-tier opponents with little chance of retaliation. Conversely, a plane that is too high for the mode will leave you helpless against enemies you cannot even see. Learn to interpret the BR on your hangar screen and use it to filter your battles, ensuring you climb the tech tree at a pace that matches your skill development.
Utilizing the Free and Premium Economies
While the tech tree provides a structured path, the in-game economy offers flexibility. War Thunder’s Gold and Real Economy allow you to purchase aircraft directly, bypassing the lengthy research times for premium ships or tanks. However, spending real money on aircraft should be a calculated decision. Focus on acquiring planes that fill a specific role in your lineup, such as a nimble interceptor or a durable ground attacker, rather than simply buying the most expensive machine. The premium shop often contains vehicles that are enjoyable and viable, giving you a significant edge while you grind the tech tree.
Leveraging the Arcade and Realistic Battles
The battle mode you choose dramatically impacts your ability to earn currency and experience. The Arcade Battles mode simplifies complex mechanics like energy management and realistic ballistics, allowing you to focus on dogfighting and earning quick RP (Research Points) and silver lions. This is ideal for grinding lower-tier aircraft and building a solid foundation. As you unlock more advanced planes and gain confidence, transition to Realistic Battles, where the challenge is greater but the rewards in terms of authentic piloting skills and better payouts are substantial.
Strategic Vehicle Selection and Loadouts
A plane is only as good as the loadout you select for the mission. Blindly hopping into the default configuration is a recipe for mediocrity. For a pure dogfighter, prioritize high-explosive air-to-air cannons and incendiary ammunition to set enemy planes on fire. If you are attacking ground targets, focus on high-explosive bombs, air-to-ground rockets, and durable armor plating. Furthermore, consider the map; a high-altitude interceptor performs poorly in the dense forests of Battle Creek, while a nimble light tank struggles on the open plains of Giant's Shadow. Adapting your hardware to the environment is a subtle but vital part of improvement.
The Value of a Knowledgeable Crew
Your pilot is not just a name; they are a collection of skills that can turn the tide of battle. As you progress, you will unlock crew members with traits like "Ace," "Veteran," and "Survivor." These passive abilities provide tangible benefits, such as faster repairs, improved firepower, or a chance to survive a fatal hit. Investing the free skill points you earn into repairing damaged components and improving survivability is often more valuable than rushing down the line for a new plane. A skilled crew in a mediocre plane can outperform an unskicked crew in a top-tier machine.
