War Thunder Adds F-101C Voodoo in Heavy Cavalry Update
Gaijin Entertainment has unveiled the latest addition to the American interceptor line coming in the Heavy Cavalry major update: the F-101C Voodoo. Designed to bridge the performance gap between the early F-80C-10 and more advanced interceptors like the F-104A Starfighter, the Voodoo is arriving as a Rank VI jet aimed at helping players master high-speed combat.
- Aircraft: F-101C Voodoo
- Nation: USA
- Rank: VI
- Key Features: Radar, RWR, 20 mm cannons, high climb rate
- Missiles: None
Performance and Battle Tactics
The F-101C Voodoo is built for speed and altitude. With a climb rate of 165 meters per second and a top speed exceeding 1,550 km/h at high altitude, the aircraft is intended to be among the first in the air to engage opponents. While it lacks air-to-air missiles, it compensates with rapid-fire 20 mm cannons and 800 rounds of ammunition. To assist in situational awareness, the aircraft comes equipped with both radar and a Radar Warning Receiver (RWR).
Developers noted that the Voodoo serves as a transitional tool for those moving toward more advanced jet gameplay. It is intended to be a direct competitor to early MiG-21 variants and the MiG-19 series, providing a specialized platform for players to learn the mechanics of high-speed interceptor combat.
Historical Context
Developed by McDonnell, the F-101 Voodoo was originally intended as a long-range escort fighter for the Strategic Air Command’s B-36 and B-52 bombers. The first F-101A took flight in 1954 after winning a 1951 design competition.
The specific F-101C variant introduced in this update was a response to the Tactical Air Command’s need for a fighter-bomber. Because the original design struggled with G-force limitations during low-altitude tactical operations, the F-101C featured a strengthened airframe capable of handling maneuvers up to 7.33G. While it was slightly heavier than its predecessor, it retained the same visual profile and armament. A total of 47 F-101C units were built, with the first flight occurring on August 21, 1957. For aviation enthusiasts, it is worth noting that a modified F-101A once set a world speed record of 1,943.5 km/h in 1957.
Gaijin has stated that all vehicle specifications for the F-101C Voodoo remain subject to change prior to the final release of the Heavy Cavalry update.