War Thunder shows off the Su-15TM, a Rank VI Soviet interceptor with new R-98 missiles

Gaijin Entertainment has shown off the Su-15TM, a Soviet jet interceptor coming to War Thunder on PC in the next major update. The post doesn’t give a release date. Gaijin also notes that specifications may change before the aircraft is added.

Where it fits

The Su-15TM sits at Rank VI in the Sukhoi jet line of the USSR tree. Gaijin says it will be the earliest Soviet aircraft in the game to carry medium-range air-to-air missiles, and calls it a stepping stone to more advanced, long-range weaponry.

How it flies

Gaijin expects it to be one of the best interceptors at its rank. It has an excellent climb rate and a top speed above 2,200 km/h at high altitude. It also manoeuvres well, especially vertically.

There’s a radar and a Radar Warning Receiver to help you keep track of what’s around, but no flares or chaff. Staying alert matters here.

The new R-98 missiles

The R-98 family is new to War Thunder and exclusive to this jet. You can carry two of them alongside other gear such as R-60 missiles or external fuel tanks.

• R-98MT: an infrared-seeking missile with a longer range than the R-60, though it can only lock onto a target’s rear hemisphere.
• R-98MR: uses a semi-active radar seeker that works even in head-on engagements.

With only a pair on board, Gaijin says you’ll need to learn how to use them well.

Other weapons

For close-range fights, there are 23 mm gun pods and R-60 missiles. The Su-15TM can also hit ground targets with bombs, rockets and its 23 mm cannon, even though it’s designed mainly for high-altitude air combat.

A bit of history

According to the post, factory trials began in the spring of 1970, and the jet was officially adopted for service on 21 January 1975. It served with Soviet Air Defense Force regiments. The last Russian Su-15s were retired in 1994, and about 70 went to Ukraine, where they flew until 1996.