Through the Spy Glass: Dalian

Dalian is based on a version of the unrealized MK-6 cruiser project, modernized with 1950s-era technology. In this version, the gun mounts from the 1940s were replaced with more modern ones: the main battery features BL-109 guns instead of MK-18, while the AA armament consists of ZIF-31 and 4M-120 mounts, replacing the 66-K and 70-K mounts, respectively. 

In Legends, Dalian is a Pan-Asian Tier VIII Premium cruiser. She's a close relative of the Pan-Asian Tech Tree branch, particularly its apex cruiser—Sejong. However, we've made several modifications that set Dalian apart from her siblings. 

First, she offers players a more artillery-focused gameplay experience. With improved HE shell penetration, higher damage per minute, and one of the best firing rates at her tier, she can deliver massive damage. Her projectiles also travel faster, making it easier to aim and hit enemies.  

Dalian has a short firing range due to her caliber, but this is balanced with the best concealment and agility at her tier, an effective Smoke Generator with a long duration and fast reload, and an increased number of Repair Party charges. All this ensures steady damage output from her guns. 

Lastly, while her torpedoes are fewer in number and have a shorter range compared to Sejong's, they are of a classic type that can effectively hit destroyers. 

Here are the recommended upgrades for Dalian:

• Aiming Systems Mod. 1
• Propulsion Mod. 2
• Concealment System Mod. 1
• Main Battery Mod. 3

Chen Shaokuan is the ideal Commander for Dalian. His Guerrilla Warfare base trait reduces incoming damage to your cruiser from shells, torpedoes, and bombs while in smoke by up to 12%. As for the skill selection: 

• Beyond Range, increasing your cruiser's main battery range by up to 10%. 
• Blind Justice, increasing your torpedo range by up to 8% and reducing cruiser detectability by up to 4%. 
• Velocious, increasing your maximum movement speed by up to 5%. 
• Smoke on the Water, increasing smoke screen deployment and dispersion times by up to 8%. 
• Fully Packed, reducing your consumable cooldown time by up to 5% and giving you an additional charge for all consumables. 

Inspirations:  

• Gunichi Mikawa, reducing your cruiser detectability by up to 6%. 
• André Lemonnier, reducing your cruiser detectability time after firing main battery guns by up to 25%. 

Turn the tide with Dalian!