War Thunder gets Ninth Wave update with more than 40 new vehicles and Tank Soccer 2026 event

On Wednesday, March 18, 2026, Gaijin Entertainment released the “Ninth Onda” major update for War Thunder. The first major update of the year brought more than 40 new and improved vehicles to the game’s nations, including tier VI aircraft and modern ground vehicles. The update also included hypersonic missiles, reorganization of the technology tree and significant graphical improvements to the representation of the ocean. The update is available for PC, PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 players.

Players can access new content that expands combat options in air, land and naval battles. The inclusion of advanced aircraft and modern armored vehicles changes the dynamics in high-level confrontations. The temporary event Tank Soccer complements the new features, offering a different experience from conventional combat.

Nona Onda update details

The upgrade introduced vehicles such as the Chinese J-15T fighter jet, compatible with electromagnetic catapults and equipped with PL-12A long-range missiles. Outra highlighted addition is the two-seat F/A-18F Super Hornet, which expands naval attack capabilities to the Estados Unidos.

Land vehicles also received reinforcements. The M1296 Dragoon, a variant of the American Stryker, and the British AS90 155 mm self-propelled howitzer entered the game. The Italian Centauro II (P) gained prominence with its 120 mm cannon and improved protections against improvised explosive devices.

The Japanese 10 cm Ho-Ni II Canhão Autopropulsado Tipo 1, based on the Tanque Médio Tipo 97 Chi-Ha chassis, was implemented as an improved historical option. Essas additions span multiple nations and eras, balancing progress across the technology tree.

Graphical improvements in the ocean environment

The developers focused on rendering the sea surface. The implementation of advanced shading allows for realistic interactions between light, camera and water. Dispersão Subsuperficial calculates light below the surface, improving appearance in different conditions.

Anisotropic reflections have been adjusted for various viewing angles. Isso ensures that the water maintains accurate brightness regardless of the camera’s position. Partículas in the aquatic environment have been rearranged to deal with lighting variations.

New transparency and blending logic removes previous distortions. Colunas water and dynamic effects react more naturally to interactions. Essas changes raise the overall visual level in naval and coastal battles.

Leia Tambem

Colby Minifie confirms Ashley Barrett’s powers in The Boys season five

Napoli x Milan in Serie A with confirmed lineups and where to watch live

New battery test puts Galaxy S26 Ultra ahead of iPhone 17 Pro Max in global ranking

Event Tank Soccer 2026 in progress

The annual event Tank Soccer 2026 began on March 12 and runs until March 30, 2026. Partidas occurs at specific times each day, allowing players to pilot tanks with boosters to jump and accelerate. The objective is to score goals and provide assists to accumulate points.

Participants win exclusive limited edition items. Recompensas include stickers like “Partida Day” and 3D decorations for ground vehicles. The mode is open to all players, with solo and squad options.

Preparatory training took place before the official start. Unique mechanics encourage coordination between teams. The event offers a fun break from traditional battles.

Technological reorganization and economy

The technology tree has undergone adjustments to accommodate the new tier VI vehicles. Aeronaves and ground vehicles were repositioned according to their capabilities. The game’s economy has received updates to balance progression and rewards.

Cockpits and locations underwent visual redesigns. Essas changes make navigation easier and improve immersion. Jogadores notice differences in controls and performance in prolonged combat.

Access and recommendations for new players

War Thunder remains free with premium options. The PC version operates via DMM GAMES PLAYER, while PlayStation consoles receive full support. Iniciantes find guides on the official website to understand basic mechanics.

The update reinforces the commitment to regular content. Jogadores must download the update to try out the new features. The Tank Soccer event remains active for a limited time.