[Coming Soon] HMS Devonshire: missiles, sir!

Historical note

The destroyer HMS Devonshire, commissioned in 1962, was the first British ship to test the Seaslug missile system. Throughout its service, Devonshire participated in numerous exercises and diplomatic missions. It patrolled regions such as the Persian Gulf and the Caribbean, though it never saw active combat.

In 1978, due to military budget cuts, Devonshire was decommissioned and slated for sale to Egypt, but the deal fell through. In 1984, the destroyer was sunk during a training exercise, where it served as a target for live fire.

HMS Devonshire (Rank VI)

In the upcoming seasonal update of War Thunder Mobile, HMS Devonshire will join the British Navy at Rank VI. Like all top-tier "missile ships," HMS Devonshire combines excellent guided and unguided weaponry with relatively high mobility. So, what can players expect from this new destroyer in the game?

Let's start with the main feature – missiles! HMS Devonshire's arsenal includes two types of guided missiles for targeting enemy ships. At the stern, you'll find a twin launcher for Seaslug guided missiles, while on the sides there are four launchers for Seacat missiles. Although both were originally designed as anti-aircraft missiles, they can also hit surface targets. However, they deal less damage than standard anti-ship missiles, but their flight speed is much faster. These missiles operate on a "fire-and-forget" system – simply aim at an enemy ship and launch.

HMS Devonshire is equipped with two twin gun turrets, each housing 114mm guns, which serve as its auxiliary armament.

🛈 Remember to bring a supply of countermeasures to defend against enemy anti-ship missiles (ASMs). If you're using a lower-ranked ship without countermeasures, or if you're reloading and need more time, stay close to a teammate on a missile ship. By diverting ASMs fired at them, they can help protect you too.

As mentioned earlier, missile ships should avoid being in the enemy’s sights due to their low survivability. They are particularly vulnerable to any enemy, especially heavy battleships encountered in higher-ranked battles. HMS Devonshire is no exception – try to stay near islands to have time to aim, while minimzing exposure to enemy salvos.

The HMS Devonshire (Rank VI) is available after you reach level 29 in the ship campaign. You can upgrade the campaign level for Golden Eagles instantly to gain access to this ship faster than other players, or you can level up in battle.

Please remember that as soon as Campaign Level 30 becomes available, Level 29, 29* and 29** platoons will merge into a single Level 29. Vehicles purchased for Golden Eagles will remain as a premium even after the levels are merged. The final coefficients on the three vehicles will be the same as the level 29 vehicles.