[Coming soon] USS Billfish: The first swordfish

The American submarine USS Billfish boasts the most powerful deck artillery in the game among classic submarines!

Historical note

USS Billfish (SS-286), a Balao-class submarine, was ordered by the U.S. government just a week after the attack on Pearl Harbor and the U.S. entry into World War II. Commissioned in April 1943, she was the first submarine named after a family of swordfish (fish characterized by a "sword"-like bill at the front of their heads, such as marlins and sailfish). During her wartime service, USS Billfish completed 8 combat missions and sank up to 8 enemy ships.

After the war, USS Billfish returned to the U.S. for modernization, participated in fleet maneuvers, and later served as a training ship for the U.S. Navy Reserve. In 1968, she was decommissioned, and by 1971, the submarine was dismantled for scrap.

USS Billfish (Rank II)

In the upcoming seasonal update of War Thunder Mobile, the American submarine USS Billfish will join the naval lineup at Rank II. Like other submarines, the USS Billfish relies mainly on its torpedoes in combat. However, unlike its counterparts, this American sub boasts the most powerful deck artillery in the game among classic submarines, aside from the formidable underwater cruiser Surcouf.

The USS Billfish is a typical low-ranking submarine, featuring slow underwater speeds and slightly improved mobility at periscope depth. Its torpedo armament includes ten torpedo tubes – six at the bow and four at the stern. Additionally, the USS Billfish is equipped with a 102mm 50-caliber deck gun, a 40mm Bofors autocannon, and a pair of heavy machine guns.

The standout feature of the new submarine is the 102mm deck gun. By targeting the bridge or damaging the rudders, the USS Billfish commander can impair the enemy's maneuverability, making them an easy target for torpedoes. While these tactical maneuvers require considerable skill, they are well worth mastering!