Commanders,
This edition of the Top of the Tree focuses on one of the rarest Tier X vehicles you can meet in battle (or see featured in one of these specials for that matter), the Object 263. Never heard of it? Don’t worry – neither have we. Let’s check it out together then! For the next two weeks let us explore the Soviet tech branch leading to this virtually anonymous tank destroyer, while enjoying great discounts and crew XP bonuses on the way:
50% discount on purchase of the following Soviet vehicles:
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30% discount on purchase of the following Soviet vehicles:
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+50% Crew XP bonus on all vehicles discounted in this special
Your crews will be also very excited about the new toys in your garage!
These bonuses will be available from 15 April at 07:10 until 01 May at 07:00 CEST (UTC+2).
Object 263
“I’d tell you the name of my tank but you’ve probably never heard of it...”
Vehicle Overview
Why is the Object 263 the kind of hipster tank that hardly anyone knows, let alone has in their garage? The most probable reason is the fact that this tank may not be the easiest to handle, especially when compared to the more well-rounded alternative - the Object 268. On the one hand, it has solid sloped frontal armour, good mobility and a fairly accurate and fast-firing gun. But on the other hand, the vehicle’s sides provide pretty much no protection at all and the gun mantlet can be considered a weak spot too. Gun elevation and depression values are uninspiring, alpha damage is mediocre for a Tier X tank destroyer and last but definitely not least – the Object 263 is an open top vehicle. The latter means that not only will you be especially vulnerable to enemy artillery but taller vehicles, such as the E 100 or Maus, can mess you up with HE shells quite easy too – especially if you allow them to face-hug you and get a clear shot at your open top.
How can you make this tank work then? First of all, you need to take advantage of the fact that even though you’re at Tier X, your camouflage values, as well as view range, are something you can easily utilise. Add to this the advantage of having an accurate and fast-firing gun, and you can harass the enemy greatly without exposing yourself in return. If there is no artillery in your battle, you can even take greater risks and continue firing even if you’re spotted – your frontal armour is reliable enough to bounce a good deal of shots, especially over greater distances, as the enemy will have a tough time aiming for your weak mantlet. Otherwise, as soon as you’re detected, take advantage of your good mobility to relocate or hide where enemy SPGs can’t reach you. Once you have disappeared from the enemy radar, pop out in a different spot to harass them some more.
Tank tip: Remembering the impressive armour on the front of the vehicle, the Object 263 can be potentially used as a frontline vehicle. If you want to be where the action takes place, be careful not to get flanked by the enemy. Prioritize narrow passages, in which your thin sides will be protected by walls, rocks or other obstacles. If you are on an open map, always travel in groups – this way you will have your team buddies to watch your back. Last but not least, invest in the Repairs skill on all your crew members, because the frontline is where most of the module damage occurs, especially when it comes to tracks.
In order to maximise your performance on the battlefield, we suggest installing the following equipment:
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| Camouflage Net | Large-Caliber Tank Gun Rammer | Binocular Telescope or Coated Optics |
In addition, your crew members should learn the following skills and perks:
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| Gunner | |
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| Driver | |
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| 1st Loader | |
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| 2nd Loader | |
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As always, please consider the setup for both the equipment and crew skills as suggestions. Feel free to experiment on your own and choose what you think works best for you.
Roll out, Commanders!
