Hey guys! War Thunder is an incredibly immersive game, and if you're like me, you're always on the lookout for ways to boost your gameplay. One of the best ways to do that is by investing in premium planes, especially if you're focusing on the US tech tree. Premium planes not only help you grind through the tiers faster, but they also offer unique gameplay experiences that you just can't find anywhere else. So, let’s dive into some of the best premium planes the US has to offer in War Thunder. I’ll break down why each plane is awesome, how it performs, and who it's best suited for. Ready? Let's get started!

Why Go Premium? The Perks

Before we jump into specific planes, let's quickly cover why you should even bother with premium vehicles in the first place. The main draw is the increased research point (RP) and Silver Lion (SL) gains. Premium planes typically offer a significant bonus, often around 50-100% more RP and SL per match. This means you can unlock new planes and upgrades much faster, saving you a ton of time and effort. For instance, if you're grinding a particular tech tree, a premium plane can cut your grind time in half, if not more. This is super helpful if you're trying to reach those high-tier jets or bombers. Plus, let's be honest, who doesn't want to earn more Silver Lions? Those things disappear quickly when you're buying and crewing new vehicles. Beyond the economic benefits, premium planes often come with unique features or characteristics that make them stand out. Some might have exceptional maneuverability, while others might pack a serious punch with their armament. This variety keeps the game fresh and exciting, and it allows you to experiment with different playstyles. Premium planes can also be a great way to learn new tactics and strategies. For example, if you're used to flying heavy fighters, trying out a nimble premium fighter can force you to adapt and improve your dogfighting skills. And finally, let's not forget the historical significance of many premium planes. War Thunder does a fantastic job of recreating iconic aircraft from different eras, and owning a premium version of one of these planes can be a really cool way to connect with aviation history.

The Heavy Hitters: Premium US Bombers

Okay, let’s kick things off with the big boys – the premium US bombers. If you love raining destruction from above and racking up those sweet bombing points, these planes are for you. The B-29A-BN Superfortress is a prime example, offering impressive bomb-carrying capabilities and defensive armament. When flying this beast, your main goal is to reach the enemy bases or strategic targets, drop your payload, and make it back to base in one piece. The defensive guns are there to help fend off enemy fighters, but don't rely on them too much. Stick to your flight path, communicate with your team, and try to stay at a higher altitude to avoid early interceptions. The A-26C-45 Invader is another excellent choice. This attacker is a versatile premium aircraft known for its impressive bomb load and powerful offensive armament. Unlike the B-29, the A-26 is more agile and can engage in some limited ground attack roles. Use its speed and maneuverability to your advantage, and don't be afraid to strafe enemy vehicles after you've dropped your bombs. The A-26 is particularly effective in Realistic Battles, where its combination of bombing and strafing capabilities can make a big difference. These bombers are fantastic for racking up points and SL, especially in game modes like Air Realistic Battles and Simulator Battles. Just remember, teamwork is key. Coordinate with your squad, watch your six, and make those bombing runs count!

Fighters: Dogfighting Delights

Now, let’s switch gears and talk about fighters. If you're all about those thrilling dogfights and outmaneuvering your opponents, the US premium fighter lineup has some real gems. The P-47M-1-RE Thunderbolt is an excellent choice for energy fighting. With its powerful engine and sturdy airframe, the P-47M-1-RE excels at boom-and-zoom tactics. Climb to a high altitude, dive on unsuspecting enemies, and then use your superior speed to disengage and climb again. Avoid turning engagements, as the Thunderbolt is not the most agile fighter. Instead, focus on maintaining your energy advantage and picking your targets carefully. This plane is perfect for players who prefer a more strategic and patient approach to dogfighting. Another great option is the XP-50. This plane is a high-altitude interceptor known for its exceptional climb rate and powerful armament. The XP-50 can reach high altitudes faster than almost any other aircraft in its tier, giving you a significant advantage in positioning. Use this climb rate to intercept enemy bombers or gain a height advantage over enemy fighters. The XP-50 is also armed with two .50 caliber machine guns and two 20mm cannons, making it a formidable opponent in head-on engagements. This plane is ideal for players who like to play aggressively and control the airspace. These fighters are perfect for players who love high-speed engagements and want to dominate the skies. Master the art of energy management, practice your aiming, and you'll be racking up those kills in no time!

Attackers: Ground Pounders

For those of you who enjoy getting down and dirty with ground targets, the US premium attackers offer some fantastic options. These planes are designed to wreak havoc on enemy tanks, pillboxes, and other ground installations. The A2D-1 Skyshark is a beastly attacker with a turboprop engine and a formidable array of weaponry. It can carry a hefty bomb load, rockets, and even torpedoes, making it incredibly versatile. The A2D-1 is also surprisingly fast and maneuverable for its size, allowing you to evade enemy fighters and deliver your payload with precision. This plane is perfect for players who want to contribute to the ground battle while still being able to hold their own in air-to-air engagements. Another great choice is the AU-1 Corsair. This plane is a close air support aircraft with a focus on ground attack. The AU-1 is equipped with a powerful engine and a variety of hardpoints for carrying bombs, rockets, and napalm. It's also heavily armored, allowing you to withstand a significant amount of ground fire. The AU-1 is ideal for players who want to get up close and personal with the enemy, providing direct support to friendly ground forces. These attackers are perfect for players who enjoy the thrill of destroying ground targets and turning the tide of battle. Practice your dive bombing techniques, learn the maps, and you'll be racking up those ground kills in no time!

Making the Most of Your Premium Plane

Alright, you've got your shiny new premium plane – now what? Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your investment. First and foremost, understand your plane's strengths and weaknesses. Every plane has its own unique characteristics, and it's important to play to those strengths. If you're flying a bomber, focus on reaching your targets safely and accurately. If you're flying a fighter, prioritize energy management and target selection. Don't try to force your plane into roles it's not suited for. Next, take the time to learn the maps. Knowing the terrain, enemy spawn points, and key strategic locations can give you a significant advantage. This is especially important for attackers, who need to know where to find ground targets. Also, experiment with different loadouts. Most planes offer a variety of weapon options, and it's important to find the ones that suit your playstyle. Some players prefer to carry a lot of bombs, while others prefer to focus on rockets or torpedoes. Find what works best for you and stick with it. Don't be afraid to experiment with different tactics. War Thunder is a constantly evolving game, and new strategies are always emerging. Try different approaches, watch what other players are doing, and adapt your gameplay accordingly. And finally, practice makes perfect. The more you fly your premium plane, the better you'll become at it. Don't get discouraged if you have a few bad matches. Just keep learning and improving, and you'll eventually become a force to be reckoned with. Also, consider watching videos of experienced players flying the same plane. You can learn a lot from their techniques and strategies. Look for videos on YouTube or other gaming platforms. And don't forget to read the War Thunder forums and community discussions. There's a wealth of information and advice available from other players.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it – a rundown of some of the best US premium planes in War Thunder. Whether you're a bomber pilot, a fighter ace, or a ground-attack specialist, there's a premium plane out there that's perfect for you. These planes not only boost your RP and SL gains, but they also offer unique gameplay experiences that can enhance your enjoyment of the game. So, go ahead, take the plunge and add one of these awesome planes to your hangar. You won't regret it! Happy flying, and I'll see you in the skies!