The M-Series of Battle Tanks were developed by the same man who created the S-Series, Angus Macleod. Macleod, a tech among the 2nd Regiment, had a special flair for vehicles and would later approach Kariban with his initial designs. While the company was still young, it saw the profitability in providing militia and mercenary units with easy access to conventional armor and vehicles. In 3067, Macleod saw the first M1's roll off the lines at Bristol, only to have those lines destroyed months later.

Still, the M1 served with distinction, especially in a period where Omni designs were so much more effective, with weapon supplies varying depending entirely on what were captured on raids, or what eked out of Haddings. While he wouldn't live to see the continuation of his work, Macleod gave an excellent base for Kariban's ground vehicle designs, and even now his methods continue to influence just how the company develops their hardware.

Renamed the Ankou, the second generation of the M1 is meant to be a complete monster on the battlefield, its prime configuration containing twin Nidavellir LBX AC/20s that in combination with two Streak SRM-4s and its hardened armor make it one of the most devastating in close vehicles on the battlefield. The other configurations emphasis mostly distance fighting, using a variety of Gauss Rifles and LRM's, it can take up any role needed for heavy conventional vehicles in the Guards. While popular with the 12th Star Guards, Kariban also builds and sells the M2 in the Federated Suns, where it has seen extensive action in the buffer zone between the Suns and the Combine.





Ankou M1-2OA

Mass: 90 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Motive Type: Tracked OmniVehicle
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3111
Cost: 16,363,750 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,022

Power Plant: KM 270 Fusion XL Engine
Cruise Speed: 32.4 km/h
Flanking Speed: 54.0 km/h
Armor: WhiteGuard Standard Armor
Armament:
    41.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Kariban Motors
    Primary Factory: Alci, Bristol, Hephzibah
Communications System: Magni 238
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware 4D

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      45 points                9.00
Engine:             XL Engine                    270                      11.50
    Cruise MP:  3
    Flank MP:   5
Heat Sinks:         (IS) Single Heat Sink        10                        0.00
Control Equipment:                                                         4.50
Lift Equipment:                                                            0.00
Turret:                                                                    3.00
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV - 335                 21.00

                                                      Armor
                                                      Factor
                                               Front     82
                                          Left/Right   66/66
                                              Turret     68
                                                Rear     53

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat     Spaces     Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE                                         BD        -         0         0.00

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:     11    Points: 10
3t         0       0       0       0      4     0   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, TUR()


================================================================================
Loadout Name: Primary Configuration                          Cost: 20,049,750
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 1,893

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Equipment                                 Location    Heat     Spaces     Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 (CL) LB 20-X ACs                           T         12        2        24.00
2 (CL) SRM-4s                                T         6         2         2.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           T         -         0         2.00
2 (CL) Small Pulse Lasers                    T         4         2         2.00
CASE                                         BD        -         0         0.00
@LB 20-X (Slug) (20)                         BD        -         0         4.00
@SRM-4 (Frag) (25)                           BD        -         0         1.00
@SRM-4 (Inferno) (25)                        BD        -         0         1.00
@SRM-4 (Artemis) (25)                        BD        -         0         1.00
@LB 20-X (Cluster) (20)                      BD        -         0         4.00

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:     11    Points: 19
3t         5       5       0       0      4     0   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, TUR(5/5/0, FLK 2/2/0), FLK 2/2/0


================================================================================
Loadout Name: Configuration A                                Cost: 19,356,250
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 1,625

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Equipment                                 Location    Heat     Spaces     Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 (CL) LB 5-X ACs                            T         4         4        28.00
CASE                                         BD        -         0         0.00
(CL) Targeting Computer                      BD        -         1         6.00
ECM Suite                                    BD        0         1         1.00
@LB 5-X (Cluster) (80)                       BD        -         0         4.00
@LB 5-X (Slug) (40)                          BD        -         0         2.00

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:     11    Points: 16
3t         1       2       2       0      4     0   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, ECM, TUR(1/2/2, FLK 1/1/1), FLK 1/1/1


================================================================================
Loadout Name: Configuration B                                Cost: 18,821,875
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 1,965

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Equipment                                 Location    Heat     Spaces     Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(IS) Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle              FR        2         1        20.00
(CL) Light Machine Gun                       LS        0         1         0.25
2 (R) (CL) Light Machine Guns                RR        0         2         0.50
(CL) Light Machine Gun                       RS        0         1         0.25
(CL) LRM-20                                  T         6         1         5.00
(IS) Light Machine Gun                       T         0         1         0.50
2 (CL) Light Machine Guns                    T         0         2         0.50
CASE                                         BD        -         0         0.00
Light Active Probe                           BD        0         1         0.50
@iHGR (16)                                   BD        -         0         4.00
@LMG (1/2) (100)                             BD        -         0         0.50
@LRM-20 (6)                                  BD        -         0         1.00
@LRM-20 (Thunder) (6)                        BD        -         0         1.00
@LRM-20 (Smoke) (6)                          BD        -         0         1.00
@LRM-20 (Frag) (6)                           BD        -         0         1.00

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:     11    Points: 20
3t         4       4       4       0      4     0   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, LPRB, RCN, TUR(2/2/2, LRM 1/1/1, IF 1/1/1),
LRM 1/1/1, IF 1


================================================================================
Loadout Name: Configuration C                                Cost: 19,142,500
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 1,765

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Equipment                                 Location    Heat     Spaces     Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Heavy Machine Gun                       FR        0         1         0.50
(CL) Heavy Machine Gun                       LS        0         1         0.50
(R) (CL) Heavy Machine Gun                   RR        0         1         0.50
(CL) Heavy Machine Gun                       RS        0         1         0.50
2 (IS) Arrow IV Missiles                     T         20        2        30.00
(CL) Laser Anti-Missile System               T         5         1         1.00
2 (CL) Heavy Machine Guns                    T         0         2         1.00
CASE                                         BD        -         0         0.00
@Arrow IV (Homing) (15)                      BD        -         0         3.00
@Arrow IV (Thunder) (5)                      BD        -         0         1.00
@Arrow IV (Inferno) (5)                      BD        -         0         1.00
@HMG (100)                                   BD        -         0         1.00
@Arrow IV (Cluster) (5)                      BD        -         0         1.00

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:     11    Points: 18
3t         6       0       0       0      4     0   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: OMNI, ARTAIS, AMS, CASE, TUR(5/0/0)

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:05, Sun 30 July 2017.

History

When the Aegis Partners first formed, one of the boons that allowed their growth was the initial discovery of a Star League Era computer core. To their disappointment, the core contained none of the advanced technology that was just beginning to be implemented among the Successor States, but it did contain the schematics for many obsolete and extinct BattleMech designs. Drawn from all over the Inner Sphere and Periphery it has been theorized that the core was in fact a trap, the designs meant to draw out spies, but only provide useless data. Fortunately for the 12th Star Guards, Aegis found them to be anything but useless. Due to the extinct nature of the BattleMechs, the majority required no licensing or purchased permission to be used, and while they needed to be upgraded to modern standards they would provide a solid lineup of products.

With the first production line finished in 3049, the very first Battlemech to be produced by Bell Dynamic was the Firebee. A design based around maneuverability, a long range punch with its ER Large Laser, and inferno missiles as well as flamers for its short range and anti-infantry work, it was considered an excellent all round recon design. While it had its odd quirks, a result of little to no testing of the design before it was pushed into production, it was actually very popular among the Guards after the Clan Invasion.

While many were upgraded with field refits, even the standard version was an excellent ambush fighter, defeating energy heavy and poorly sinked Clan Mechs thanks to its own heat causing armament. This popularity would carry over to the Federated Commonwealth's forces, with it seeing heavy action through the rest of the Clan Invasion, as well as on both sides of the Federated Commonwealth Civil War. During the post Jihad period of rebuilding, Gregor Tau would announce that the Firebee would not be put back into production, but instead a complete redesign under Felifious Bander would be created to become the flagship recon design. In both the Guards and the other fans of the Firebee, there was a noticeable anticipation for what they would do to improve on the design.

The new design, called the Draugr after the undead of Norse mythology, had an increased the maneuverability with both a greater jump range, and the addition of Triple Strength Myomer. This proved to be a bit of a design nightmare, as chassis and body shape had to be changed to keep the jumping stable, eventually leading to the quasi-wings that would keep it somewhat aerodynamic. With the addition of a full cockpit ejection system, and cutting edge electronics, the Draugr certainly brought about a level of safety to the pilot that the Firebee had not, which was certainly a plus to most of the prospective customers. More questionably was the obvious change from a platform that could act in multiple roles to one only truly suited to recon duties and mid-range combat.

While this would cause interest to drop in the Draugr it was still a solid, if somewhat expensive, design that found its way into many mercenary units, as well as the LCAF. While sales would later take a hit with the release of Clan Wolf in Exile's Jaguar, as well as the Havoc from Adam Tech Industries. Still, Bell Dynamic continues to produce replacement parts and limited runs with many in service among both the Guards, mercenaries, and the LCAF.

Capabilities

With a top speed of 118 kmp/h, and a jump jet range of 210 meters, the Draugr it an incredibly maneuverable machine that many pilots use to dance around enemy formations as it scouts out an area, then quickly moves away. With its use of an advanced Angel ECM, it also acts as a battlefield interdictor, harassing larger units slashing attacks before moving back, all while interfering with communications and targeting systems. The addition of a concealed Laser Anti-Missile System, one of the advanced technologies that made it difficult to maintain, means that it can keep friendly units free from missile flights, and of course its Active Probe allows it to detect hidden units and break through enemy ECM gives the Draugr a vital support roll in any formation. With five ER Medium Lasers built to Clan specifications, the Draugr has a decent amount of firepower for its size, and as a naturally hot running machine it can take advantage of the light, if bulky, Triple Strength Myomer to increase its top speed to 129 kmp/h.

Deployment

Seen among all five regiments of the 12th Star Guards, the Draugr is still often obtained and modified by various mercenary units, and is a pilot favorite among the gladiators of Solaris VII. The clan-spec weaponry and design, along with an increasingly wider supply of KM XL engines, has given the Draugr a small, but loyal customer with the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey.

Variants: DRU-FB-1C, DRU-FB-2C, DRU-FB-1G

Surprisingly for such a high tech design, the Draugr has proved to be easy to modify without extensive reworking of its internals. Rarely is there a long time Draugr pilot who doesn't have his own variant, but there are a few that have become popular enough that Bell Dynamic has provided limited runs. The 1C variant adds a partial wing system, providing an increase to its maneuverability at the cost of a single medium laser, while removing the rest of the weapon systems in order to install a clan-spec ER Large Laser, allowing the Draugr to attack from afar while being extremely difficult to hit. Like the 1C, the 2C also includes a partial wing, but keeps the four ER Medium Lasers installed.

Believed to be in field testing, the 1G is rumored to use the Void Signature System that was developed by the Word of Blake, but this remains unconfirmed. What is confirmed is that the 1G is currently in field trials, but the lack of an appropriate weapon has kept it from being put into production. Clearly Bell is determined to make the Draugr pay off fully.

Image Shown: A Draugr from the 4th Regiment during a war game exercise in the 'Dead City'.

Notable Units

Captain Kiana Qualls: Founder and leader of the mercenary unit Qualls' Koalas, Captain Qualls has been regarded as one of the best Light 'Mech pilots to have come through the Solaris VII arenas. With a decade long career, having first obtained her Draugr in a card game, Qualls is reported to have never had any formal training. With her piloting one of the four BattleMechs of the Koalas, she has countered claims that she would fail as an actual mercenary with a dozen successful contracts for pirate hunting under her belt. It is reported that she is in talks with several entertainment companies on producing a holovid adaptation of her recent biography.




Draugr DRU-FB-1A

Mass: 35 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3105
Cost: 8,541,810 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,198

Chassis: Dynamic S-Light Endo-Steel
Power Plant: KM 245 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 75.6 km/h (86.4 km/h)
Maximum Speed: 118.8 km/h (129.6 km/h)
Jump Jets: KM Silverfire
    Jump Capacity: 210 meters
Armor: Omega III-Light Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    5 Nidavellir (CL) ER Medium Lasers
    1 Lightstar (CL) Laser Anti-Missile System
    1 Michael Angel ECM
    1 Apollon TAG
    1 Puma Active Probe
Manufacturer: Bell Dynamic
    Primary Factory: Alci, Solaris VII
Communications System: Magni 216
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware XJ-7

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    58 points                2.00
    Internal Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT, 2 LA, 1 RA
Engine:             XL Engine                    245                       6.00
    Walking MP: 7 (8)
    Running MP: 11 (12)
    Jumping MP: 7 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 2 LL, 2 RL                       3.50
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        11(22)                    1.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 LA, 1 RA
Gyro:               Standard                                               3.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
    TSM Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 3 RA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 119                  6.50
    Armor Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT, 2 LA, 1 RA

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     11           17
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  5
                                           L/R Torso     8            12
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  4
                                             L/R Arm     6            12
                                             L/R Leg     8            16

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Laser Anti-Missile System               HD        5         1         1.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         CT        5         1         1.00
2 (CL) ER Medium Lasers                      RT        10        2         2.00
Active Probe                                 RT        0         1         1.00
2 (CL) ER Medium Lasers                      LT        10        2         2.00
Angel ECM                                    LT        0         2         2.00
TAG                                          LA        0         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 2

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      4    Points: 22
7j         3       3       0       0      1     1   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: TSM, AMS, AECM, TAG, PRB, RCN, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


Notes: Features the Following Design Quirks: Reinforced Legs, Distracting.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:05, Tue 03 Oct 2017.

History

The original Hollander was designed in an effort to duplicate the performance and role of the Clan's Kit Fox, or Uller, design. It offered light ’Mech pilots firepower far outside their weight class, and the ’Mech was enthusiastically adopted across the Inner Sphere for a time. It was not without its troubles though, as it was limited by ammunition and of course the relatively fragile nature of its weight class, along with the fact that it lacked a secondary weapon for when its big gun had run dry. An attempt to counter that spawned a heavier upgrade, the Hollander II, which the Lyran Commonwealth would eventually use as a test design for the Heavy Gauss Rifle, but the increase in ten tons had unfortunately effected the top speed in a machine where while speed wasn't as important due to its nature as a sniping 'Mech, it still needed to be able to pace the faster and heavier machines of the Clans.

In 3114 General Motors presented a new ’Mech in the light weight class to the AFFS, an updated version of the original Hollander, who were quick to snap it up. Thanks in part to their partnership with Kariban-Victoria, and the limited license to produce the KM XL Engines which had been so useful in other projects, the Hollander III was a surprising success. While its weaponry is on the cutting edge, and in fact take advantage of recent Federated Suns' advances into clan-spec weaponry, the Hollander is actually a fairly basic and easily maintained design.

Because of this, and because its forebears were popular despite their flaws, the 'Mech has since spread to the Lyran Commonwealth and been a popular choice in the mercenary market. It has seen as an especially popular BattleMech among the Lyran-Clan front, taking up the light sniper range with ease. Even the 12th Star Guards, who had been reliant on more homegrown designs, use it throughout their five Regiments.

Capabilities

The Hollander III returns to the successful first model, with a single powerful main gun, in this case a Magna Hellfire Heavy PPC that has been coupled with a capacitor. GM has taken great care to insure that the focusing capacitors have been refitted with much more robust components. This has had the fortunate side effect of making the Heavy PPC highly accurate, which combined with the power it can deliver in a single shot, the Hollander III is capable of enemy kills even against many heavy designs. The addition of three clan-spec ER Small Lasers provide a secondary weapons system that is mostly meant to face off against infantry and Battle Armor. In both speed  it exceeds the limitations of its progenitor by adding a supercharger to allow it quick entrances and exits from combat, while it does use the specialized Laser-Reflective armor to give a greater protection against the Clan energy heavy doctrine.

Deployment

Hollander IIIs are common in the Capellan March, especially, and have been seen often in the Periphery Guard regiments of the Periphery March, where their firepower makes them frequent ambushers for pirates coming in from the Periphery.


Variants: BZK-D2, BZK-D3

Interest from the LCAF drove GM to offer the D2 Hollander, which changes out the entire armament for a Gauss rifle. Once export shipments began, GM expanded to the mercenary market with the D3, which uses a larger engine and a different load-out of energy weapons to turn the Hollander III into a credible harasser.


Notable Units

Captain Colton Haynes: A member of the recently rebuilt 3rd Crucis Lancers, Haynes is one of the few truly experienced officers in the unit. A Veteran of several pirate hunting operations, as well as two tours of duty in the Draconis Reach, Haynes was only recently transferred. Known for his daring, and sometimes reckless, use of his Hollander, he has a reputation of pushing the supercharger to its limits, and not always to his benefit.


Hollander III BZK-D1

Mass: 35 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3114
Cost: 8,339,423 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,675

Chassis: GM BZK-III Endo-Steel
Power Plant: KM 210 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 64.8 km/h
Maximum Speed: 97.2 km/h (129.6 km/h)
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarGuard Laser-Reflective
Armament:
    1 Magna Hellfire (IS) Heavy PPC + PPC Capacitor
    3 ExoStar Pinnacle (CL) ER Small Lasers
Manufacturer: General Motors
    Primary Factory: Kathil
Communications System: Dalban Micronics
Targeting and Tracking System: Sync-Tracker (55-42017)

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    58 points                2.00
    Internal Locations: 1 HD, 1 LT, 2 RT, 3 LA, 3 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
Engine:             XL Engine                    210                       4.50
    Walking MP: 6
    Running MP: 9 (12)
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        12(24)                    2.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 3 LT, 1 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               3.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Laser-Reflective             AV - 119                  7.50
    Armor Locations: 2 LT, 4 LA, 4 RA

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     11           17
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  5
                                           L/R Torso     8            12
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  4
                                             L/R Arm     6            12
                                             L/R Leg     8            16

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) ER Small Laser                          CT        2         1         0.50
Supercharger                                 CT        -         1         0.50
(IS) Heavy PPC + PPC Capacitor               RT        20        4        10.00
    (IS) Heavy PPC + PPC Capacitor           RT        5*        1         1.00
(CL) ER Small Laser                          RA        2         1         0.50
(CL) ER Small Laser                          LA        2         1         0.50
                                            Free Critical Slots: 2

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      3    Points: 17
8          3       3       1       0      1     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Notes: Features the following Design Quirks: Accurate Weapon (Heavy PPC), Easy to Maintain.

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:07, Sun 30 July 2017.

The workhorse Medium Battlemech of the 12th Star Guards for over 80 years, the Talos is the one design of Bell Dynamic that was never subject to the radical redesigns that began in 3051. As such, the Talos as become as much a symbol of the Guards as the Regimental Omnimechs that were developed over the past three decades. Like the other BattleMechs of Bell Dynamics original lineup, the Talos' plan was found in a damaged computer core recovered in 3048, a prize that proved to be a saving grace for the 12th Star Guards. With the Talos' alien look and feel making it popular when it was first produced, mostly by those who liked style over substance, there was plenty of substance to the BattleMech that kept that popularity high. With its robust engineering and a simple but effective weapons load out, the Talos spread throughout the Inner Sphere thanks to mercenary, militia, and Periphery State units.

When the 12th Star Guards first began to rebuild after their near destruction during the Clan Invasion, they were limited by both supplies and numbers. While the still nascent Aegis Conglomerate scrambled to increase both the quantity and quality of production, Bell Dynamic was only able to offer a stockpile of standard BattleMechs that had been intended for sale, though luckily they were in great numbers. With the Omnimechs captured throughout 3050, and any other top of the line material being assigned to the best Inner Sphere pilots the Guards had, it was to the Shadow Hawk unit that the majority of these 'Mechs were assigned. Even with their machines being refitted as soon as the kits could arrive, this left the core of what would become the 5th Regiment at a disadvantage, and its warriors slighted. It is possibly due to the resemblance the Talos has to the Timber Wolf (Mad Cat) Omnimech that this slight did not become something deeper, as the Talos was one of the most popular designs among the abtakha. It was so popular in fact, that even as newer and better machines became available, many chose to insist on simply refitting their Talos instead.

Capabilities

The most recent version of the Talos still resembles its first Bell incarnations, with the right arm's PPC being the center of its weaponry, though now it is upgraded to a clan-spec ER model that includes a PPC Capacitor. This modification gives it a much better punch and range while the change to the lighter clan-spec SRM-6 launchers paired with an Artemis IV Fire Control System gives it a flexibility in its ammunition load-outs. With three ER Medium Lasers rounding out its weapons, and a full 9 tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor on its frame, it remains an excellent close ranged fighter and now sports even a little more toughness. Keeping the triple strength myomer muscles from the 3C and previous models means that the heat from its weapons can easily be used for strong melee combat and increased speed, enhancing its capabilities maneuverability in the medium range.

Deployment

With the 4C being a recent model, and foreign markets being restricted to only the Solaris VII lines, it has not managed to proliferate nearly as much as the 3C or older models. Still, it is rare to see a military that does not at least have a few Talos in its forces. Even the Capellan Confederation, which has been blacklisted from all Aegis purchases since 3059, had access to the Talos after their annexation of the St. Ives Compact.

The highest numbers remain in the LCAF, the AFFS, and surprisingly the Republic. The last gaining most of theirs from military units gifted to the nation after the Jihad.

Variants: TLS-3C, TLS-3D

There are two official Variants that remain supported or produced by Bell Dynamic, the 3C and the 3D. The 3C which was developed in 3100 and is the direct forebearer to the 4C, uses the same ER PPC model, but lacks the capacitator. Instead, it pairs two Streak SRM-6 Launchers with the same ER Medium lasers. While this takes away somewhat from its long range punch, the Streak launchers remain more effective in closer ranges than the Artemis controlled system of the 4C. Still incredibly prolific throughout the Inner Sphere, the 3C is a staple of front line Regiments among the Oriente Protectorate, Lyran Commonwealth, and various mercenary units the Kell Hounds and the Wolf's Dragoons.

The 3D is a more radical shift, removing the rather iconic missile racks to save weight for a larger engine, while the Mymoer system has been removed and replaced with a Supercharger and additional jump jets. The 3D continues the reputation for toughness, still using a standard engine, while the inclusion of a more extensive sensor suite has allowed it to take up a scouting as well as a skirmishing role. Currently, the 3D has only been built in limited numbers for the 12th Star Guards, and surprisingly for the AFFS.

Older models do still exist, though most lack the upgraded Clan level technology that modern renditions do. These have proved popular as well among Periphery States and less wealthy mercenary units, and remain a staple income for Bell Dynamic, which continues to produce parts from its Solaris VII plant.

Image Shown: An Aegis Talos, it is one of the more popular designs for its security, mainly due to the high numbers of retired Guards who pilot them.

Notable Units

Captain Vitoria: Incredibly rare, Vitoria was a Jade Falcon Mechwarrior who was firmly in the Warden Camp. This hampered her career with the Falcons, but after her capture and adoption by the Guards, she found her new position freeing and fulfilling. Using a modified Talos she called the 'Fire Fox', upgraded with Clan Salvage and a MASC system, she would break the usual Clan dislike of melee combat with her masterful piloting, though she most often favored using inferno missile loads. A founder of House Griffin, Captain Vitoria would give her life against her former Clan, holding a pass in order to allow her unit to flank a Jade Falcon position in 3064.




Talos TLS-4C

Mass: 50 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3127
Cost: 6,101,500 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,224

Chassis: Dynamic Medium-III Standard
Power Plant: Nissan 200 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h (54.0 km/h)
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h (86.4 km/h)
Jump Jets: KM Silverfire
    Jump Capacity: 90 meters
Armor: Omega III Medium Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    1 Arcas Javelin (CL) ER PPC + PPC Capacitor
    3 Nidavellir (CL) ER Medium Lasers
    2 Wilcox (CL) SRM-6s w/ Artemis IV FCS
Manufacturer: Bell Dynamic
    Primary Factory: Alci, Solaris VII
Communications System: Magni 342
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware XJS

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      83 points                5.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                200                       8.50
    Walking MP: 4 (5)
    Running MP: 6 (8)
    Jumping MP: 3 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 1 LT, 2 RT                                         1.50
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        13(26)                    3.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 2 RT, 1 LA
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
    TSM Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 169                  9.00
    Armor Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 2 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
    CASE II Locations: 1 LT                                                1.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     16           22
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  10
                                           L/R Torso     12           16
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8
                                             L/R Arm     8            16
                                             L/R Leg     12           24

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) SRM-6                                   RT        4         1         1.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           RT        -         1         1.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         RT        5         1         1.00
(CL) SRM-6                                   LT        4         1         1.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           LT        -         1         1.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         LT        5         1         1.00
(CL) ER PPC + PPC Capacitor                  RA        20        2         6.00
    (CL) ER PPC + PPC Capacitor              RA        5*        1         1.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         LA        5         1         1.00
@SRM-6 (Artemis) (30)                        LT        -         2         2.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 8

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      6    Points: 22
4/2j       4       4       1       0      2     2   Structure:  4
Special Abilities: TSM, CASEII, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Notes: Features the Following Design Quirks: Easy to Pilot.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:06, Tue 03 Oct 2017.

History

By 3117, Kariban-Victoria had made deals and partnerships with other weapon industries across the Inner Sphere, from the Periphery and independent worlds like Kendall to major companies like TharHes and GM. Remaining essentially a refitting company, the Kariban subsidiary would obtain various chassis from their various partners, installing their own engines and weaponry before selling the products to the 12th Star Guards, selective mercenary, and Inner Sphere units. Always known for the scientific acumen of its engineers, being one of the major developers of clan-spec equipment, the years of refitting gave them the experience to develop a BattleMech from the ground up.

Using the venerable Woverine design as a base, the Wolverine II was a born in a process of precautions. Knowing that the design could open the door to the subsidiary to becoming a full BattleMech manufacturer themselves, they took their time to make sure everything was done right the first time. This included obtaining a manufacturing facility for endo-steel that now orbits Bristol, while also building a small manufacturing center on Haddings itself. Initial trials took over two years, while field testing took another two, and there were multiple issues in determining a main weapon.

However, when it was deemed ready for sale, all initial runs were sold a year in advance, and to date it has has nothing but praise from its pilots. While there is some questioning in its lack of serious offensive power, the Wolverine II has been toted as a fast support design that works within almost any Force configuration. With their first BattleMech a success, there is some question to whether Kariban will develop a second original design, or if they will continue primarily as a BattleMech refit company.

Capabilities

Built almost entirely with clan-spec technology, the Wolverine II is designed to be the ultimate in support to a Lance. With an Active Probe, ECM, and TAG unit, it can provide almost any electronic role needed on a battlefield, and with its rugged KM 275 XL engine and Supercharger, it can provide at electronic assistance quickly.

Defensively it is also well designed, with nine and a half tons of ferro-fiberous armor, a Lightstar Laser Anti-Missile system, and CASE II for its ammunition bins. This allows it to survive surprisingly heavy fire, while its Anti-Missile system massively reduces the risk of missile volleys. Offensively however is where the Wolverine II has had criticism. While the paired Medium Pulse Lasers and Artemis controlled SRM-6 give it effective close combat capabilities, its main weapon is a Mydron Rotary AC/2. While its long range abilities, and variable damage are advantages, compared to high damage and lower risk weapons, it can be viewed as lacking. With two tons of ammunition, there are some questions to its battlefield stamina, though there has yet to be complaints from its pilots.

Deployment

While it has been a popular addition to the 12th Star Guards forces, the Wolverine II has also sold to various House and mercenary units around the Inner Sphere. The Eridani Light Horse used a Lance of the machines to deadly effect in 3127 during a raid on Graceland by the Jade Falcons. Against a lance of the totem Gyrfalcons, the Light Horse had to put their supercharged 'Mechs against the Falcon's MASC enhanced designs, only to find that the myomer enhancements failed first. Using the mountainous terrain against them, the Light Horse would use fast slashing attacks against the partially crippled Gyrfalcons, chewing away at their armor before finally taking the Lance down with only one casualty.

Variants: WVR-2CA, WVR-2CE

The 2CA is a field refit, and limited variant produced by Kariban, that trades out the Rotary AC/2 for a clan-spec ER PPC, and four additional double heat sinks to compensate for the much higher heat curve.

The 2CE is being used as a test bed for the 12th Star Guards' Laser Rotary Cannon, using an additional 2 double heat sinks to also compensate for the higher heat curve.


Notable Units

Sergeant Major Arida Ishinomori: Ishinomori of the 4th Regiment's Seven Company, or the Aridilla Assassins, is one of the few Gunslingers in his Regiment. Affectionately called 'Killsteal', Ishinomori is notorious for finding the holes in a target's armor that have been created by his Lance and Company mates, and laying a devastating salvo into the internals of an enemy BattleMech. He is also considered an especially frustrating opponent, using bursts of speed and maneuverability to evade enemy fire, all while 'plinking' away with low bursts of his Autocannon. Once his opponent becomes so frustrated they make a mistake, he exploits it ruthlessly, giving credence to his Company's nickname.

Captain Hugh Howlett: Howlett was a still green Lieutenant when the Jade Falcons landed on Graceland, but he and his unit more than proved their worth. His masterful, and some say savage, use of the terrain and electronics on the Wolverine II brought his name to the attention of his superiors, and within four years he gained his captaincy. While the victory was small, the four Gyrfalcons that now grace the ELH's line up bought the man his fifteen minutes of glory, something that Kariban was quick to exploit during the Wolverine II's 3027 marketing campaign. His ad-libbed slogan of "It's the best at what it does, just like me," became a sensation that year, and even gained him a shot at the Solaris VII games. Howlett would win the Medium Class Championship in 3029 with his Wolverine II, though he soon departed the game world for "real fighting".


Wolverine II WVR-2CS

Mass: 55 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-F-A
Production Year: 3123
Cost: 16,720,057 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,089

Chassis: Vendor-A Endo-Steel
Power Plant: KM 275 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 54.0 km/h
Maximum Speed: 86.4 km/h (108.0 km/h)
Jump Jets: Kariban Silverfire M
    Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Omega III Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    1 Mydron Model RD (CL) Rotary AC/2
    2 Nidavellir (CL) Medium Pulse Lasers
    1 Wilcox (CL) SRM-6 w/ Artemis IV FCS
    1 Apollon TAG
    1 Puma Active Probe
    1 Lightstar (CL) Laser Anti-Missile System
    1 Michael Angel ECM
Manufacturer: Kariban-Victoria
    Primary Factory: Alci, Bristol
Communications System: Magni 432/w Angel ECM
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware XJS

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    91 points                3.00
    Internal Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 2 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Engine:             XL Engine                    275                       8.00
    Walking MP: 5
    Running MP: 8 (10)
    Jumping MP: 4 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LL, 1 RL                             2.00
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        11(22)                    1.00
Gyro:               Standard                                               3.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 182                  9.50
    Armor Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA
    CASE II Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT                                          2.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     18           28
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  7
                                           L/R Torso     13           19
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  7
                                             L/R Arm     9            18
                                             L/R Leg     13           25

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Laser Anti-Missile System               HD        5         1         1.00
Supercharger                                 CT        -         1         1.00
(CL) Medium Pulse Laser                      RT        4         1         2.00
TAG                                          RT        0         1         1.00
Angel ECM                                    RT        0         2         2.00
(CL) SRM-6                                   LT        4         1         1.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           LT        -         1         1.00
(CL) Medium Pulse Laser                      LT        4         1         2.00
Active Probe                                 LT        0         1         1.00
(CL) Rotary AC/2                             RA        1         4         8.00
@Rotary AC/2 (90)                            RT        -         2         2.00
@SRM-6 (Artemis) (15)                        LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 6

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      6    Points: 21
6/3j       4       4       1       0      2     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: TAG, PRB, RCN, AMS, AECM, CASEII, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Notes: Features the Following Design Quirk: Jettison Capable Weapon (RAC).
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:20, Fri 23 Mar 2018.

History

The destruction to Tharkad during the Jihad was devastating for the Lyran Capital, the Blakist siege led by the LCS Invincible had caused a nuclear meltdown, entire swaths of the city to be pulverized as beachheads, and savaged the TharHes manufacturing lines. The TharHes facilities on Tharkad would end up taking 95% losses during the conflict, and even by 3079, the company had only managed to restore production to 20% of full capacity. While its manufacturing complexes on other planets flourished, TharHes was still having problems rebuilding modern facilities at their once flagship center.

It was in 3094, looking for a similar deal as it had cut with GM, that Kariban offered to help fund the rebuilding process for two separate lines, and license the advanced KM XL engine series to TharHes in return for an even split of manufacturing from both lines and possible future partnerships. This partnership would actually produce the Ursa BattleMech down the road, but in 3098 it was the Crusader that became the first BattleMech to come off the newly rebuilt lines.

A blatant copy of the CRD-8L made in the Capellan Confederation, it was the addition of both the clan-spec engine and double heat sinks that made it a more advanced design. At the time, both Kariban and TharHes denied the suggestion, but more recently it has been admitted, even if in a joking fashion. Unsurprisingly, this has brought both scathing public comments as well as a lawsuit by Tao 'MechWorks, but as the Capellan Confederation is already blacklisted by Kariban, this has amounted very little. As the design differs in some key ways, the lawsuit was also a failed venture, though even if it had been a direct copy, it would be unlikely that the Lyran court would have sided against a native company.

Capabilities

Equipped with a pair of MML-5s, the 9S allows for the Crusader to continue its original role as fire support to some degree, but its true purpose is to now be a close combatant. With two Plasma Rifles, along with four tons of ammo, it is terrifying at close range to most enemy pilots, as the thought of dying to heat is always frightening. With a set of clan-spec ER Medium Lasers for further medium range firepower, the 9S can easily struggle with heat with only 13 double heat sinks. Rather than work to alleviate this, the designers chose to take advantage of it with the use of Triple Strength Myomer.

The TSM system turns the waste heat into speed to get close, and extra damage when the 'Mech lays into its opponents with its fists. This can have some problems, for while most pilots will use Tandem Charge SRM loads, or perhaps fragmentation to face off against enemy Battle Armor and infantry, the truly skilled or insane will use Inferno loads. These pilots have to be very careful to keep their heat at just the right level, lest their ammunition spontaneously explode from the heat.

To allow for its close range role, the design engineers included a Kariban Supercharger to give it bursts of speed, and in combination with its TSM, the 9S can raise its top speed from 86 kph to 129 kph, surprising enemy pilots with its sudden speed and placing it within its optimal range. With the addition of 13 tons of Armor, and CASE II for its ammo bins, the Crusader can weather more damage than most would expect, giving it a further edge.

Deployment

The bulk of the 9S Crusaders have been observed within the LCAF, mostly in the Lyran Guards Brigade. Seeing combat along the borders with Clan Wolf and Jade Falcon, the 'Mech has proven effective against the high heat machines the Clans prefer. On Odessa elements of the 10th Lyran Guards faced off against Clan Wolf's 13th Battle Cluster in 3109, where the speed of their Crusaders surprised the Clanners, and costing two of their Blood Reapers to be shut down before the battle had truly begun. While two of the Lyran Crusaders would be destroyed before the Wolves were repulsed, they were able to salvage two nearly pristine Blood Reapers in the process.

Among the 12th Star Guards, the 9S is a popular design, unsurprisingly with the 4th Regiment, but also among the Seventh. Both units use them differently, the Seventh preferring to use them as a brawlers, but the 4th enjoy the excellent speed and firepower they bring to the table.

Variants: CRD-10S, CRD-9Sr

A limited run variant has appeared from the factories of Tharkad, replacing the pair of Defiance Plasma Cannons with clan-spec ER PPCs. While it has a far higher heat threshold, the Variant uses all four saved tons for jump jets, giving the design far greater mobility and endurance on the battlefield.

The 9Sr on the other hand is a field refit, replacing the heavier MML-5 missile systems for two clan-spec SRM-6 systems, while using the three tons saved for the instillation of jump jets, giving it a 90 meter jumping radius.

Image Shown: Captain Sinclair Murphy's Crusader on exercises in the Empty Quarter.

Notable Units

Captain Sinclair Murphy: A rising star in the 12th Star Guards, Murphy is surprisingly one of the top tacticians within the Guards, having written several treatises on various battles and the use of Medium Cavalry. Her fans rarely know this side of her, as the woman is infamous for her foul mouthed rants and inappropriate language whenever in a broadcasted exercise.


Crusader CRD-9S

Mass: 65 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3098
Cost: 21,772,960 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,628

Chassis: Crucis-B Endo-Steel
Power Plant: KM 325 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 54.0 km/h (64.8 km/h)
Maximum Speed: 86.4 km/h (129.6 km/h)
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Medium Standard Armor
Armament:
    2 Defiance Novashot Model 2 (IS) Plasma Rifles
    2 Nidavellir (CL) ER Medium Lasers
    2 Cinquedea (IS) MML-5s
Manufacturer: Kariban-Victoria
    Primary Factory: Bristol, Haddings (Kariban-Victoria), Tharkad (TharHes)
Communications System: TharHes Euterpe HM-14
Targeting and Tracking System: TharHes 11-B

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                   104 points                3.50
    Internal Locations: 1 HD, 4 LT, 5 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Engine:             XL Engine                    325                      12.00
    Walking MP: 5 (6)
    Running MP: 8 (12)
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        13(26)                    3.00
Gyro:               XL                                                     2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
    TSM Locations: 2 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV - 208                 13.00
    CASE II Locations: 1 LT                                                1.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     21           31
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  10
                                           L/R Torso     15           20
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  10
                                             L/R Arm     10           20
                                             L/R Leg     15           29

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supercharger                                 RT        -         1         1.50
(IS) Plasma Rifle                            RA        10        2         6.00
(IS) MML-5                                   RA        3         3         3.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         RA        5         1         1.00
(IS) Plasma Rifle                            LA        10        2         6.00
(IS) MML-5                                   LA        3         3         3.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         LA        5         1         1.00
@Plasma Rifle (20)                           RT        -         2         2.00
@Plasma Rifle (20)                           LT        -         2         2.00
@MML-5 (LRM Semi-G) (24)                     LT        -         1         1.00
@MML-5 (SRM Inferno) (20)                    LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 1

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 26
6          4       4       1       0      3     1   Structure:  4
Special Abilities: TSM, CASEII, HT1, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1

Notes: Features the Following Design Quirks: Combat Computer.

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:10, Sun 30 July 2017.

History

While it is often considered the first original BattleMechs of Bell Dynamic, the Bandersnatch is actually the brainchild of Felifious Bander. The Chief Tech for the 12th Star Guards before the Clan Invasion, when the survivors of the Guards rallied around the Shadow Cats and began rebuilding in 3051 Bander was leading the mechanical front in trying close the technological gap. Knowing the Clans couldn't be defeated by common Inner Sphere tech, and the refits they were constantly doing at the time could only help so much, the Chief Tech began the process of designing a new BattleMech that would be a contender on the changed battlefields.

Using the Hector, one of the designs produced by Bell Dynamic at the time, Bander went about a massive redesign that when finished could only be superficially related to the Hector. Boldly proclaiming the new BattleMech to be the most versatile design in the Inner Sphere once he was finished, Bander turned over the design specs to Bell Dynamic for a substantial amount of stock and a later position as their lead engineer, not to mention having the new unit named after himself.

Though unproven, Bell was quick to convert its Hector Production line in 3052, while Bander had several dozen tech teams work around the clock to tear down a dozen Hectors to create the first models. It was the success of these hand built units in exercises and several raiding contracts that secured orders from not just the Guards, but several other Mercenary units and the Federated Commonwealth. This success and popularity would later lead to Bander heading the redesigns for the Hammerhands, and the Firebee before his retirement.

Capabilities

The original Bandersnatch was developed using cutting edge Inner Sphere technology that, while not making it the equal to a Clan design of the time, certainly closed the gap to give its pilot a fighting chance. Today, though the weapon load out has remained consistent in type, with the further advancement to Clan level technology by Aegis, Bell Dynamic's current 4A model is the equal of any Clan design in both quality and weaponry.

Carrying the Arklow LB 10-X autocannons in each arm, with both cluster and slug ammunition in its bins, the Bandersnatch has a punch at mid ranges as well as being capable of anti-aircraft and conventional vehicle duty. Four ER Medium Lasers add to the firepower as the Bandernsnatch closes with its target, while two of the medium lasers are able to rotate and fire in its rear arc, acting against both infantry and enemies who attempt to engage from behind. With a pair of Artemis IV guided LRM-10's rounding out its weaponry with long range capabilities, the Bandersnatch is able to engage at nearly any range effectively. 11 tons of armor allow it to engage in heavy firefights, and with both a Jaguar ECM Suite and the common Leopard Light Probe, the 4A has become a favorite among many Lance and Company commanders.

Deployment

The original Bandersnatch saw extensive action with the Guards since the first few were built off the former Hector chassis. Now that has extended to Mercenary units throughout the Inner Sphere, as well as heavy use among the LCAF, most notably along the Jade Falcon border. The 01B variant in particular is popular among the Lyran Regulars regiments.

Variants: BND-HR-01B, 4B.

A complete change of the original design, the 01B variant replaces the XL engine with a Light Fusion Engine. To make up for the weight lost to the engine, the entire weapons arsenal has been re-evaluated and the 'Mech carries a new weapons compliment. The primary long-range weapons are a pair of LRM-5 launchers. For intermediate ranges, the 01B model carries an Ultra Autocannon/10 and a PPC providing it with a powerful punch. Finally, for close range combat, the 'Mech has four Medium Lasers and a Streak SRM-2 launcher. This variant is produced in conjunction with Defiance Industries, built on both Furillo and Solaris VII, and is meant to provide a platform for mercenary and House units that is more easily repaired, with it using less advanced technology.

The 4B on the other hand is a popular Variant among the 12th Star Guards. Shedding two Medium Lasers, as well as a Heatsink, the 4B equips jump jets that allow it to jump 90 meters. This gives it a maneuverability factor that many see worth the loss of firepower.


Notable Units

Major Alicia Wilds: While thanks to the animated series, she is best known for her time in first a Lynx, and then a Hunchback IIC, Wilds was one of the first pilots to be assigned the original Bandersnatch, which she would then use for her run as a combatant in the Solaris VII games, and then in notable battles throughout her further career. In fact, Major Wilds would act as the initial test pilot, and it was through her recommendation and performance in test that convinced Bell Dynamic to begin construction of the Bandersnatch over the Hector. Slightly modified at the time with a Guardian ECM, her electronic equipment choice would eventually become standard on later models.

Lieutenant Ezekiel Colt: Currently one of the bright stars of the 12th Star Guards, Colt pilots one of the original Bandersnatchs, though it has been heavily modified to increase speed and maneuverability, and has switched to a more energy reliant load out. The Eclipse, as the 'Mech is known, has become a fan favorite right alongside its pilot in the Haddings' exercises, and the Gunslinger pilot's performance has brought renewed interest in the design.


Bandersnatch BND-HR-4A

Mass: 70 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 30998
Cost: 15,290,933 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,186

Chassis: HOR-Bander Class 7 Endo-Steel
Power Plant: KM 280 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Omega III-70H Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    2 Arklow (CL) LB 10-X ACs
    2 Sharanga (CL) LRM-10s w/ Artemis IV FCS
    4 Nidavellir (CL) ER Medium Lasers
    1 Leopard Light Active Probe
    1 Jaguar ECM Suite
Manufacturer: Bell-Dynamic Industries, Defiant Industries
    Primary Factory: Furillo (Defiant), Alci, Solaris VII (Bell-Dynamic)
Communications System: Magni 432 /with ECM Suite
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware XJ-7

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                   107 points                3.50
    Internal Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 2 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Engine:             XL Engine                    280                       8.00
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        11(22)                    1.00
Gyro:               Standard                                               3.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA    R: SH+UA+LA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 211                 11.00
    Armor Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 2 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
    CASE Locations: LT, RT                                                 0.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     22           32
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  10
                                           L/R Torso     15           22
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8
                                             L/R Arm     11           22
                                             L/R Leg     15           28

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Light Active Probe                           HD        0         1         0.50
ECM Suite                                    CT        0         1         1.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         RT        5         1         1.00
(CL) LRM-10                                  RT        4         1         2.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           RT        -         1         1.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         LT        5         1         1.00
(CL) LRM-10                                  LT        4         1         2.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           LT        -         1         1.00
(CL) LB 10-X AC                              RA        2         5        10.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         RA        5         1         1.00
(CL) LB 10-X AC                              LA        2         5        10.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         LA        5         1         1.00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (20)                         RT        -         2         2.00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (10)                      RT        -         1         1.00
@LRM-10 (Artemis) (12)                       RT        -         1         1.00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (10)                         LT        -         1         1.00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (20)                      LT        -         2         2.00
@LRM-10 (Artemis) (12)                       LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 3

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 22
4          5       5       3       0      3     1   Structure:  4
Special Abilities: LPRB, RCN, ECM, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1, FLK 1/1/1

Notes: Features the Following Design Quirks: Hyper-Extending Actuators (Arm Mounted ER Medium Lasers Only).
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:19, Fri 19 Apr 2019.

History

In wake of the Clan Invasion, House Marik sought a ’Mech that balanced mobility and firepower, a new design to provide a wide range of weapons that could serve a multitude of roles. The result of the effort was the Hercules by Kali Yama Weapons Industries, or KYWI, and it fit the bill perfectly. Too perfectly perhaps, as constraints of technology meant that the Hercules has several possibly fatal flaws, the lack of CASE to protect its fragile XL engine just one of them. This did not deter the use of the machine, and in truth the Hercules served admirably throughout Operation Bulldog and the later Jihad.

Unfortunately KYWI did not, as the main plant on Kalidasa was absorbed by the Word of Blake Protectorate, most of their engineering staff at the time being kidnapped by the Word of Blake along with their families, with their whereabouts still unknown. The factory and offices were cut off from the rest of the Inner Sphere, and their joint venture with the Alphard Trading Corporation on the planet Kendall was severed. Said venture, unoriginally known as the Kali Yama-Alphard Trading Corporation, soon saw the ATC also pulling out, and with no direction from Kalidasa and the loss of its ties to the Taurian Concordat, the Kendall plant began trying to sell its products to the highest bidders at the time.

While the plant would take damage during the Jihad, the near complete destruction of its Hunchback facilities for example, it would continue to produce both the Orion and the Hercules. While the end of the Jihad would mean that KYWI was available to once again give guidance, Kali Yama-Alphard had become an independent company, and it was through that independence that they came into partnership with Kariban-Victoria. Initially contracting Kariban to help rebuild its manufacturing lines, it would later gain license to build the KM XL engine, and is rumored to be in a development partnership for a new BattleMech design.

The Hercules was part of that initial contract, and has become a staple of the 12th Star Guards line up, as well as finding new and varied customers across the Inner Sphere, and not just with the Free Worlds League states.

Capabilities

Initially intended as a mobile firing platform, the upgrades to its systems have not terribly changed its primary purpose. Mounting the KM 350 XL fusion engine, this heavy BattleMech moves at a standard speed of 54 kph with a top speed of 86kph, making it a solid contender in the the Heavy Cavalry position. With a eleven and a half tons of Omega III ferro-fiberous armor, the Hercules can weather some of the most deadly volleys within the Inner Sphere, while also including CASE II for its ammunition reserves. The inclusion of the Lightstar Laser Anti-Missile system can sometimes cause issues with heat, the extra protection against incoming missile attacks gives the 'Mech a serious defense.

While the design sold from Kendall retains its older Helm Core technology weapons, Kariban-Victoria has fitted the 9k2 model with the reliable Arcas Javelin Er PPC as its primary weapon, supported by the Arklow LB 10-X autocannon. Backing up the pair of clan-spec weaponry is a Cinquedea MML-5 combined with the Artemis IV fire control system. A Nidavellir Medium Pulse laser rounds out its offensive weaponry, though it does include a pair of Nidavellir Micro Pulse Lasers in its rear arc, to protect against both enemy Battle Armor and conventional infantry.

Deployment

While there is some form of the Hercules throughout the different armed forces of the Free Worlds League states, the bulk of the most recent models from Kendell tend to be bought by Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey, as well as the Lyran Commonwealth. Mercenaries find them particularly appealing, and surprisingly the Republic of the Sphere has a reported number of thirty, and is rumored to be ordering more.

The refit by Kariban-Victoria on the other hand has only found its way into the hands of the 12th Star Guards, the Kell Hounds, and Wolf's Dragoons. There are reports that Clan Wolf in Exile uses it as a second line machine, though these have yet to be confirmed.

Variants: HRC-LS-9000 HRC-LS-9001, HRC-LS-9002

The original model, the 9000 uses a Helm Core technology ER PPC, LB 10-X, Medium Pulse Laser, XL Engine, a Streak SRM-2, and two small pulse lasers. While it is naturally inferior to later variants, it is still produces and sold by KYWI on Kalidasa.

A basic field modification of the original 9000 during its early years, the 9001 model removes the Anti-Missile System to add a second Streak SRM-2 launcher, and is still a common modification for the units built on Kalidasa.

The 9002 is the current design built by KY-ATC, using a similar weapon loadout of the original 9000, but with the inclusion of the KM XL Engine to make it more rugged and survivable.

Image Shown: A Hercules from the 1st Regiment's 3rd Company, the Strikers.

Notable Units

Star Colonel Chloe Magnus: Born to the Magnus bloodline, Star Colonel Chloe Magnus of Clan Snow Raven gained a degree of notoriety in her Clan for employing this Inner Sphere ‘Mech despite its relative weakness compared to second-line Clan designs. At the time Chloe shrugged off the comments, stating that her “handicap” provided more incentive to excel. Her performance in her captured Hercules has made her a prime candidate for a Bloodname, and her exploits would make the design slightly popular. It is reported that some in her line have attempted to trial for the 9K3 model in emulation of their ancestor.


Hercules HRC-LS-9K2

Mass: 70 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3107
Cost: 17,489,487 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,166

Chassis: Northrup-502 Endo-Steel
Power Plant: KM 350 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 54.0 km/h
Maximum Speed: 86.4 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Omega III-70H Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    1 Arcas Javelin (CL) ER PPC
    1 Arklow (CL) LB 10-X AC
    1 Nidavellir (CL) Medium Pulse Laser
    1 Cinquedea (IS) MML-5 w/ Artemis IV FCS
    2 Nidavellir (CL) Micro Pulse Lasers
    1 Lightstar (CL) Laser Anti-Missile System
Manufacturer: Kariban-Victoria
    Primary Factory: Haddings
Communications System: Irian Orator-5k
Targeting and Tracking System: Irian 511

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                   107 points                3.50
    Internal Locations: 1 HD, 1 CT, 2 LT, 3 LA, 3 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
Engine:             XL Engine                    350                      15.00
    Walking MP: 5
    Running MP: 8
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        12(24)                    2.00
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 217                 11.50
    Armor Locations: 3 RT, 3 LA, 1 RA
    CASE II Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT                                          2.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     22           34
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  10
                                           L/R Torso     15           22
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8
                                             L/R Arm     11           22
                                             L/R Leg     15           30

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Laser Anti-Missile System               CT        5         1         1.00
(R) (CL) Micro Pulse Laser                   RT        1         1         0.50
(CL) ER PPC                                  RT        15        2         6.00
(R) (CL) Micro Pulse Laser                   LT        1         1         0.50
(IS) MML-5                                   LT        3         3         3.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           LT        -         1         1.00
(CL) LB 10-X AC                              RA        2         5        10.00
(CL) Medium Pulse Laser                      LA        4         1         2.00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (20)                      RT        -         2         2.00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (10)                         RT        -         1         1.00
@MML-5 (LRM Art-IV) (24)                     LT        -         1         1.00
@MML-5 (SRM Art-IV) (20)                     LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 1

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 22
5          4       4       3       0      3     0   Structure:  4
Special Abilities: AMS, CASEII, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, FLK 1/1/1


Notes: Features the following Design Quirks: Accurate Weapon (ER PPC)
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:19, Fri 19 Apr 2019.

History

After the Jihad, the Filtvelt Coalition found itself facing continuing problems from a lack of infrastructure and constant pirate raids. By mid-3081 the Citizen's Militia had been able to recruit more than enough personnel to be at a full operational strength, but it continued to lack the equipment needed to arm its troops. This hampered the Militia's ability to respond to external threats, and was likely to continue to be a burning issue even with the prospect of trade deals and shifts in local industry manufacturing potentially easing the problem. However with military production already expanding in the early 3080s, the somewhat infamous Quickscell Company repair facility on Broken Wheel being upgraded to produce hovercraft in the early 3080's, what could be done was simply not enough.

While the major Inner Sphere powers were retiring their RetroTech production facilities after the Jihad, the Coalition Armory plant on Filtvelt continued to produce the substandard RetroTech 'Mechs until at least early 3084 as Filtvelt had no other options for domestic BattleMech production. While it was able to augment its forces with additional RetroTech units being imported from the Calderon Protectorate, by the 3090's the state had failed to gain any technical help to advance its production. More worryingly for the nascent nation was the loss of planets to the Federated Suns, done peacefully with willing planets thanks to focus on economical development of the Periphery March after the Jihad, but still losses in territory and resources due mostly to its inability to defend all of its planetary members.

It was in 3092, after establishing their success with the Warlord, that Kariban-Victoria offered its services to the minor state. For a hefty stake in Coalition Armory Inc, Kariban technicians would help convert the RetroTech factory into a modern BattleMech production facility. The first design to take advantage of this was the Hound, a major step forward and important asset for the Citizen's Militia, as well as a boon to the Coalition's economy.

Relying on older technologies instead of more advanced components testified to Coalition Armaments' desire to get it right the first time. It was this simplicity and effectiveness has kept it rolling off the Coalition Armory lines for four decades since. Popular among other Periphery States, mercenaries, and even in the Federated Sun, the Hound has served well, much like the pet for which it is named. In 3104 Kariban introduced its own variant, primarily meant for the 12th Star Guards, though some favorable Federated Suns and mercenary units have also been offered the machine, it uses more advanced technology on the same stable and rugged chassis that has been proven. This has made it one of the more popular trooper 'Mechs among the Guards.

Capabilities

With the instillation of a KM 280 extra light fusion engine, the Hound was refitted with several new, but similar weapon systems while also allowing for the addition of a 120 meter jump jet system. While not as rugged as the more simpler 2F, with only half a ton increase in its standard armor and a bulkier engine, the 1S has far more firepower than its lesser sibling. With its weapon system a Mydron Rotary Autocannon, known for its ability to take a great amount of wear and tear for its class, the 1S takes advantage of clan-spec technology to increase its missile compliment to an Artemis IV guided SRM-6 launcher, while at medium range it has a pair of Exostar Pinnacle ER Medium lasers.

One of the more unique features of its load out includes a pair of Enhance Light PPCs, the result of a colaborative research project between Bell Dynamic and Defiance Industries. With no addition to heat or size, the Enhanced Light PPCs now have a range equal to that of an Inner Sphere ER PPC, allowing them to provide a needed long range harassment ability to the Hounds. Finally with both an ECM Suite and TAG unit, the Hound is able to support its fellows on the line while also providing accurate firing solutions for unit artillery, an ability that is much loved among the 7th Regiment of the 12th Star Guards.

Deployment

As one would expect, the majority of Hound BattleMechs are found in the Filtvelt People's Militia. One of the Hound’s first major engagements took place on Broken Wheel in 3101. The Border Lords pirate band had fled the Calderon Protectorate seeking easier prey in the Filtvelt Coalition. The Border Lords landed a mixed battalion of ’Mechs, tanks, and infantry and marauded through Conestoga en route to the Quikscell factory. They soon came under fire from elements of the Second Filtvelt Citizens Militia. The Second had a company of Hounds backed by Pegasus hovertanks and Light Thunderbolt Carriers recently turned out by the local plant.

The city’s tight and twisting thoroughfares hindered the maneuverability of the light and fast pirate ’Mechs but were ideal for the Hounds. The Hound MechWarriors used their knowledge of the terrain to set up firing lanes and ambushes that whittled down the Border Lords. The frustrated pirates tried to retreat but found themselves cut off. The Hounds moved in, slow and steady, against the pinned enemy. They crushed the pirate armor and annihilated the infantry. The Border Lords escaped the world with half their ’Mechs but no booty to show for
their losses.

Variants: HD-2F

The 2F’s armament enables it to fill the fire support role that the Warhammer has occupied for centuries. The Hound’s success through the years is due to its reliance on older—but proven technologies; the easy acquisition of replacement parts also endears the ’Mech to the mercenaries and small nations that employ it. The Hound earned its reputation as a “shredder” thanks to the punishing combination of weapons it mounts and the durability that allows it to outlast its opponents.

Image Shown: A Hound from the 2nd Regiment on patrol in the lower vales of the 2nd District.

Notable Units

Captain Angus McFarley: Captain McFarley rose to command Third Company of the Green
Machine six years before the Blackout, and while his 2F Hound lacks the punch of heavier mercenary ’Mechs, but he more than makes up for that with a legendary coolness under fire. When the Machine faced the Black Talon pirate band, his 'Mech would represent the toughness that comes with the model as he held the line and became a rally point for his unit. With a reported three kills in the engagement, McFarley and the Green Machine have become a hot commodity along the Periphery.

Sergeant Major Victor Mattlov: While the Gunslinger is now best known for his Maahes 'Trump', the majority of his early career was spent in the second generation Hound. A proponent for the 'Mech, he was best known for using its longer ranged weapons to pick away at a target as he closed before letting loose with shredding volleys from the Rotary Autocannon.

Hound HD-1S

Mass: 70 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3104
Cost: 14,820,373 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,113

Chassis: Crucis-H Standard
Power Plant: KM 280 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: Kariban Silverfire H
    Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Valiant Chainmail Standard Armor
Armament:
    1 Mydron Model RC (IS) Rotary AC/5
    2 ExoStar Pinnacle (CL) ER Medium Lasers
    2 Defiance 250 (IS) En Light PPCs
    1 Wilcox (CL) SRM-6 w/ Artemis IV FCS
    1 Apollon TAG
    1 Jaguar ECM Suite
Manufacturer: Kariban Victoria
    Primary Factory: Bristol, Haddings
Communications System: Pickering Communications Mark III/w ECM
Targeting and Tracking System: Dalban HiRez

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                     107 points                7.00
Engine:             XL Engine                    280                       8.00
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 4 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LL, 1 RL                             4.00
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        13(26)                    3.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 RT, 1 RA
Gyro:               Standard                                               3.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV - 216                 13.50
    CASE II Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT                                          2.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     22           30
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  13
                                           L/R Torso     15           20
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  10
                                             L/R Arm     11           22
                                             L/R Leg     15           30

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TAG                                          CT        0         1         1.00
ECM Suite                                    CT        0         1         1.00
2 (CL) ER Medium Lasers                      RT        10        2         2.00
(IS) Rotary AC/5                             LT        1         6        10.00
2 (IS) En Light PPCs                         RA        10        4         6.00
(CL) SRM-6                                   LA        4         1         1.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           LA        -         1         1.00
@Rotary AC/5 (40)                            RT        -         2         2.00
@Rotary AC/5 (20)                            LT        -         1         1.00
@SRM-6 (Artemis) (15)                        LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 13

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 21
4j         5       5       1       0      3     1   Structure:  4
Special Abilities: TAG, ECM, CASEII, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


Notes: Features the Following Design Quirks: Accurate Weapon (Rotary AC/5)
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:04, Thu 18 Apr 2019.

History

Faced with dwindling stockpiles of Clan technology after the Jihad, Khan Phelan Kell sponsored several programs to adapt more readily available Inner Sphere equipment to the needs of his Wolves. Among the outcomes of these initiatives was the creation of the much maligned MNl-3l Mangonel. Rumored to be the result of a collaborative effort between Sergi Ivanovich, Chief tech for the tooth of Ymir and the mastermind behind the Schwerer Gustav Frankenmech, and the Kell Hounds’ Chief tech, Daniel Holstein, the unusual design entered production in 3078. There have been suggestions that the original Mangonel was only meant to act as a stop-gap and prototype for the Wolves before they introduced the full clan-spec MNL-3W, and the rapid deployment of of the 3W replacing the 3l gives credence to that theory, the fact is that the 3l was an utter failure as a BattleMech.

While Arc-Royal Mechworks would continue to produce the design in limited quantities over the years for the Kell Hounds and other mercenary units, it had trickled to a stop by 3097. It wasn't for another eight years before the original design had life breathed back into its near corpse. It was again a test bed, but this time it was testing the mix of Clan technology with that of the Inner Sphere, and with an eye by Wolf in Exile merchants to provide a greater source of revenue for the Clan. With the production of a Clan engine and lasers, the 5S would serve to carry the new Defiant built Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle. Upgrading all of their left over models proved to be the right thing to do, as both the Kell Hounds and the Wolves were quick to snatch what they could up, while the LCAF quickly followed. Seeing the interest grow with each successful engagement the new Magnonel went through, Arc-Royal Mechworks would restart its production, providing the 5S to the mercenaries of Arc-Royal, the Wolves in Exile, the LCAF, and of course the 12th Star Guards.

Capabilities

Using the original Inner Sphere Chassis, which there were dozens of left in storage, the engineering team would install a Clan made Light Force 350 XL Engine to save more weight while losing none of the toughness of the original Light Fusion Engine. With the upgrade of its four ER Medium Lasers to clan-spec technology, the major change is the Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle, which gives a powerful punch at a long range. The huge weapon required the internals of the BattleMech to be adjusted, and the inclusion of a compact gyro, but unlike the original it has six tons of ammunition to feed its monster gun. With the addition of Case in both bays the Rifle takes up, and Ferro-Fibrous armor, the 5S is much sturdier than before.

Deployment

Serving along its full Clan tech brethren, and even its older parent design, the 5S is seen throughout Clan Wolf in Exile, the Kell Hounds, and even Wolf's Dragoons. A popular 'Mech among the 4th Regiment of the 12th Star Guards, it acts as heavy cavalry in the rest of the 12th Star Guards as well.

Variants: MNL-3L, MNL-3W

Considered by most to be a failed design, the original 3L uses a Light Fusion Engine, four ER Medium Lasers, and two Light Gauss Rifles. While it possibly could have been effective, with the addition of only one ton of ammunition, the pair of rifles emptied quickly, at which point the Magnonel was forced to close with its far too thin armor.

On the other hand, the 3W is essentially an entirely new machine. Using clan-spech technology from the structure on up, it posses two Gauss Rifles, though due to the bulkier nature of the weapons they were put in each torso side, forcing a bit of redesign.


Notable Units

Mechwarrior Sandra Dane: A member of the Tooth of Ymir, Dane is known for using her Magnonel in ways that no sane pilot would, often treating it like it's an Assault platform. Still, it is thanks to her practiced accuracy that she has survived such tactics, with an incredible record for disabling her opponents in just a few exchanges. She is also known to have never hit an enemy's cockpit, which is rumored to be entirely voluntary and further proof of her skills.


Mangonel MNL-5S

Mass: 70 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3106
Cost: 24,681,167 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,789

Chassis: AR-7b Endo-Steel
Power Plant: Light Force 350 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 54.0 km/h
Maximum Speed: 86.4 km/h (108.0 km/h)
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Royal-7a Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
    1 Defiant Hammerfist II (IS) Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle
    4 Series 2b (CL) ER Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: Arc-Royal MechWorks
    Primary Factory: Arc-Royal
Communications System: K9 Comms System
Targeting and Tracking System: Type V Bloodhound T&T System

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                   107 points                3.50
    Internal Locations: 1 HD, 2 RT, 4 LA, 3 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
Engine:             XL Engine                    350                      15.00
    Walking MP: 5
    Running MP: 8 (10)
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        10(20)                    0.00
Gyro:               Compact                                                6.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 192                 10.00
    Armor Locations: 2 RT, 2 LA, 3 RA
    CASE Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT                                             1.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     22           29
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  8
                                           L/R Torso     15           24
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  6
                                             L/R Arm     11           19
                                             L/R Leg     15           24

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(IS) Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle              CT/LT     2         2/9      20.00
Supercharger                                 CT        -         1         1.50
2 (CL) ER Medium Lasers                      RA        10        2         2.00
2 (CL) ER Medium Lasers                      LA        10        2         2.00
@iHGR (24)                                   RT        -         6         6.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 4

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      6    Points: 28
6          5       5       3       0      3     0   Structure:  4
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Notes: Features the Following Design Quirks: Stable, Non-Standard Parts.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:04, Thu 18 Apr 2019.

History

Like many of Bell Dynamic's BattleMechs, the Anvil has a history linked to the original schematics found on Wotan in 3048. In this case, one of the progenitors of the iconic and famed Warhammer design, the Hammerhands. The Hammerhands was a rather unusual case for Bell Dynamic, as after nearly two decades of manufacturing the design, Bell Dynamic was actually sued over its right to use the schematics or sell the BattleMech by its original producer, Achernar BattleMechs.

While this also occurred with the Firebee, unlike a Capellan case that could be ignored, the Lyran courts were willing to hear out the plaintiff despite the final separation of the Federated Commonwealth. However, in the initial years of the lawsuit, the case would be dropped when Solaris VII was captured by the Word of Blake, and later the Bell Dynamic lines were destroyed upon their withdrawal. Solving the issue simply by not bringing the Hammerhands back into production, Bell Dynamic simply tucked the schematic away while the Guards would use the trickle of replacement parts before finally mothballing the majority of their Hammerhand numbers.

This wasn't the end of the story though, for in 3110, Lt. General Akram Arcand charged Aegis with creating an exclusive heavy design that would only be built within the Alci system, and could become as iconic to the Guards as the Talos had been. Looking at the various schematics they had access to, as redesign was in many ways easier, Bell Dynamic took another look at the Hammerhands, and began the process to utterly reconstruct it. The result was striking, as the General had asked for, and it left no doubt to what family of BattleMechs it was related to. The name however caused some issues, as there was a previous design with the Anvil designation, but due to the destruction of Gibson, Bell Dynamic ignored the Free Worlds League design and went forward with calling their creation the Anvil.

As one of his major actions as General, Arcand would go on to order several full production runs of the Anvil, using it to build newly formed 1st Regiment's Second Company. Due to its exclusivity and Arcand's support even after his tenure as Lt. General, this has made the Anvil the most prolific design within the Guards. Just as prolific are individual variants that have sprung up due to pilot modifications.

Capabilities

One of the hallmarks of the Anvil was that it seemed to be designed by a committee. There is some validity to the the idea, as it is an odd mix of the styles favored by the various regiments, with the designers clearly hoping it would be an 'all in one' BattleMech that the entirety of the Guards would want in their forces.

With two Nidavellir ER Large Lasers as its main armament, it certainly appealed to the 5th Regiment's love for accuracy, while the higher speed and maneuverability thanks to its extra-light fusion engine and jump jets reflect the Fourth's hit and run doctrine. The pair of imported Snubnose PPC's and Artemis IV guided SRM-6 favor the Seventh's up close and personal style, and finally the use of 12 tons of ferro-fibrous armor that it caries along with the laser anti-missile system makes it tough enough of a machine to appeal to the 2nd Regiment. The final addition of triple strength myomer muscles was something that all the Regiments could appreciate.

While it has only had praise heaped on it by various pilots, in truth the Anvil has never seen any serious action to be considered battle tested. While it has scored well in the common exercises in the War Games, Star Guard Command has refused to allow it to off planet with one of the 'mercenary leave' units, or sell it to any allied government, though due to it only being produced on Alci that would only leave the Republic as a customer.

Deployment

Due to the constraints of the Treaty of 3084, the Anvil is only deployed among the five Regiments of the 12th Star Guards. However, there are rumors that the LCAF, AFFS, and TAAF have all placed orders in anticipation of the treaty's expiration in 3135.


Noted Units:

Akram Arcand- While he only spent two more years in active service, General Arcand made it a point to use the very first Anvil off the lines as his own personal Mech. While this was a little heavy handed in showing his support of the design, Arcand did perform excellently in various exercises with the Mech.

Anvil ANV-HH-1A

Mass: 75 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3114
Cost: 21,910,875 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,615

Chassis: Dynamic Type 4 Endo-Steel
Power Plant: KM 375 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 54.0 km/h (64.8 km/h)
Maximum Speed: 86.4 km/h (97.2 km/h)
Jump Jets: KM Silverfire HV
    Jump Capacity: 90 meters
Armor: Omega III-Heavy Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    2 Hringhomi (CL) ER Large Lasers
    2 Hound’s-tooth (IS) Snub-Nose PPCs
    1 Wilcox (CL) SRM-6 w/ Artemis IV FCS
    1 Lightstar (CL) Laser Anti-Missile System
Manufacturer: Bell Dynamic
    Primary Factory: Alci
Communications System: Magni 342
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware XJS

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                   114 points                4.00
    Internal Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Engine:             XL Engine                    375                      19.50
    Walking MP: 5 (6)
    Running MP: 8 (9)
    Jumping MP: 3 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 1 CT, 1 LL, 1 RL                                   3.00
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        13(26)                    3.00
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
    TSM Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 230                 12.00
    Armor Locations: 1 HD, 2 LT, 2 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA
    CASE II Locations: 1 RT                                                1.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     23           36
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  9
                                           L/R Torso     16           24
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8
                                             L/R Arm     12           24
                                             L/R Leg     16           32

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) SRM-6                                   RT        4         1         1.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           RT        -         1         1.00
(CL) Laser Anti-Missile System               LT        5         1         1.00
(CL) ER Large Laser                          RA        12        1         4.00
(IS) Snub-Nose PPC                           RA        10        2         6.00
(CL) ER Large Laser                          LA        12        1         4.00
(IS) Snub-Nose PPC                           LA        10        2         6.00
@SRM-6 (Artemis) (15)                        RT        -         1         1.00
@SRM-6 (Smoke) (15)                          RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 12

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      8    Points: 26
5/2j       3       3       2       0      3     2   Structure:  4
Special Abilities: TSM, AMS, CASEII, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Note: Features the Following Design Quirks: Combat Computer, Reinforced Legs, Improved Sensors.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:13, Fri 30 Oct 2020.

History

When OmniMech technology first slammed into the Inner Sphere's BattleMech manufacturing industry, with the debut of Draconis Combine designs based on reverse engineered technology, StaCorps was one of the few companies that did not pay the price for hasty R&D costs or hefty licensing fees. Instead they took their time, and by 3060 they were producing Black Hawk KUs, Avatars and Sunders on four different worlds throughout the Federated Suns and the now defunct St. Ives Compact. This would give them the technological know-how to design their own original Omni-tech 'Mechs and vehicles. The first Omnimech planned and designed was the Thanatos.

Unfortunately by the time the Thanatos had been developed and was ready for trials, neither nation of the former Federated Commonwealth were particularly interested in an new Omnimech design. In fact, the truth was that no on in the Inner Sphere was particularly eager to add an additional Omnimech to their inventories. With their licensing agreements with the Draconis Combine running out in 3065, StarCorps made the major decision to revamp the Thanatos into a Standard BattleMech. The move would win them contracts that would take them through the decade and well into the 3080s after the Jihad.

However in the years since the devastation of that conflict, the armed forces of the Inner Sphere have found that their BattleMechs are too precious a resource to use certain technologies, including the XL Engine. With the popularity of standard and Light engines now moving, and more survivable designs being a must, the Thanatos has lost much of its favor that it once had, causing StarCorps to begin shifting their lines to more profitable designs. It was in 3115, aware of the success that Kariban-Victoria had for over two decades in offering expertise for design rights and manufacturing, Bell Dynamic decided to make a similar move. While its partnership with StarCorps did not allow for the manufacturing license of the KM XL engine which would have made it more survivable, it did allow the aged BattleMech a new lease on life with its advanced weaponry.

Capabilities

Initially taking its cue from the Clan Thor, the Thanatos' original design copied many of the Thor's performance capabilities but also many of its physical features. Still just as fast, topping out at 86 kph, the Thanatos also keeps its jump distance of 150 meters, making it extremely maneuverable for a 75 ton machine. Instead, the weapon system and advanced electronics were gutted to provide the Thanatos with the ability to strike from a distance. While it is equipped with Pinaka LRM-20 missile system, Bell Dynamic was determined to use it as a platform for the Enhanced Light PPC system, using a total of four of them. With a revamped targeting system, this allows a pilot to easily lock onto more than one enemy, while using its speed and maneuverability to remain untouched.

Deployment

While orders have picked up within the LCAF, manufacturing of the TNS-5S has remained fairly low, with the majority of units sold to mercenary and 12th Star Guards forces. The largest concentration of Thanatos units is along the Lyran-FWL State borders, oddly enough on both sides of the line. How the Marik-Stewart Commonwealth obtained their Thanatos units is unknown, but investigations by Lyran and Star Guard Intelligence are ongoing.

Variants:

While there have been many Variants over the years, only the 4S is currently supported and in production.


Notable Units

Mechwarrior James Gordon: A member of the Black Rabbits, who are descended from the Blakist aligned Black Angus Boys, Gordon is one of the few Mechwarrior not only in the unit, but one of the few worth the cost of the BattleMechs they use. A masterful gunner, Gordon has been known to hit as many as three separate enemies in an engagement at the same time, coming out of the fight alive and his BattleMech operational. His opponents were not so fortunate.


Thanatos TNS-5S

Mass: 75 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3117
Cost: 19,343,625 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,409

Chassis: StarFrame Heavy Endo-Steel
Power Plant: PlasmaStar 375 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 54.0 km/h
Maximum Speed: 86.4 km/h
Jump Jets: Audi-Fokker Mark IV
    Jump Capacity: 150 meters
Armor: Durallex Heavy Standard Armor
Armament:
    1 Pinaka (CL) LRM-20
    2 Nidavellir (CL) ER Medium Lasers
    4 Defiance 250 Enhanced (IS) Light PPCs
Manufacturer: StarCorps Industries
    Primary Factory: Lodburg
Communications System: Garret T-60 FastScan
Targeting and Tracking System: Garret F22C

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                   114 points                4.00
    Internal Locations: 1 HD, 4 LT, 5 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA
Engine:             XL Engine                    375                      19.50
    Walking MP: 5
    Running MP: 8
    Jumping MP: 5 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 1 CT, 2 LL, 2 RL                                   5.00
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        16(32)                    6.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV - 216                 13.50

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     23           34
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  9
                                           L/R Torso     16           24
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8
                                             L/R Arm     12           22
                                             L/R Leg     16           28

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         RT        5         1         1.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         LT        5         1         1.00
(CL) LRM-20                                  RA        6         4         5.00
4 (IS) En Light PPCs                         LA        20        8        12.00
@LRM-20 (6)                                  RA        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 9

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 24
5j         4       4       3       0      3     1   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1

Notes: Features the following Design Quirks: Easy to Maintain, Multi-Trac.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:05, Thu 18 Apr 2019.

History

Known to target those forces that victimize the downtrodden, The Brotherhood of Randis is a BattleMech unit styled after the Christian Military Orders, such as the Knights Hospitaller. Using BattleMechs initially found in a Star League era cache they provide the unit's own source of justice for not just their homeworld of Randis IV, but to other neighboring worlds who ask for aid. Originally a mercenary cult of personality, the unit is nearly a Regiment strong, and despite its strict and difficult recruiting and initiation policies it is still growing in power and influence among the Periphery.

Originally to help support their activities, the Brotherhood set aside resources to develop production facilities to build "RetroMechs", in order to both fill out its own forces and to sell as a means of generating further capital. Initially starting with RetroTech Firebees and Dervishes, their success led the Brotherhood to develop an entirely new design. Intended mainly for fire-support roles, the HawkWolf is generally assigned to the Brotherhood's "squires" as a means for its youngest warriors to gain experience and avoid placing the primitive design at threat against more advanced opponents in direct combat.

However, with many reforms occurring during the 3060s and well into the Jihad, the Brotherhood found that it needed to increase its military capabilities in order to support its operations in pirate hunting, missionary work, and missions of mercy. Realizing this, the organization first sought to improve Randis IV's industrial and commercial assets by updating the transportation infrastructure and seeking trading partners. While it the Brotherhood remained self-sufficient on the small tax levied on the planetary population, it was through their ties with the Filtvelt Coalition that they were able to truly improve their operation.

In 3105 the Brotherhood invited the Kariban-Victoria corporation to Randis IV for talks in operations, and the result was nearly immediate. With the aid of the Kariban technicians, they were able to not only modernize their factory, but they were soon building clan-spec armor and missile systems, keeping all the manufacturing and resource needs on Randis IV, rather than require imported materials. The advanced version of the HawkWolf is the major export of Randis IV, and while the slight variant 4S has immigrated into both the 12th Star Guards and favored mercenary units, the majority of its sales with the Federated Suns have remained the new base model.

Capabilities

With the upgrades to HIM's factories, producing advanced armor and weapons as well as modern technological improvements to its other systems the HawkWolf has been improved in nearly every way from its RetroMech origins. It is now faster, has better heat dissipation, more LRM ammo and launcher capacity, and is easier to maintain. The last of which has made many a Squire among the Brotherhood happier, as they often double as techs for not just their machines, but for the Knights above them.

The HawkWolf’s role though, the medium to long range fire support, is utterly unchanged. With its larger, modern engine increasing the top speed by ten kph and allowing the HawkWolf to get into and out of positions quicker, and its double heat sink system keeping it cool as it runs and fires, the 'Mechs combat stamina and contribution has increased dramatically. The Pinaka launchers and Cinquedea multiple missile launchers allow the HawkWolf to send fifty long-range missiles downrange in a single volley, while four tons of ammunition allow both flexibility and staying power. Most HawkWolf pilots reserve one ton of MML ammo for SRMs, to discourage pursuit should they have to retreat, many using a load of Inferno ammunition to also combat Battle Armor. While rare that a HawkWolf would close so much, the addition of three clan-spec ER Small Lasers provide additional close range defenses.

Deployment

As one can imagine, the HawkWolf is an important part of the Brotherhood's military, often reserved for training Squires and even proven Knights. Outside of Randis IV, the Hawkwolf has respectable numbers in both the Feltvelt Coalition and Calderon Protectorate, Randis IV's closest trading and military alliance. All three military forces have a high percentage of the HawkWolf production, though only the 3F and 4F variants.

The 4S is a popular 'Mech in all five Regiments of the 12th Star Guards, and sees extensive use as one of the main fire support BattleMechs. It also sees service with Eridani Light Horse, and Kell Hound mercenary units.

Variants: HWK-4F, HWK-3F

Nearly indistinguishable from the 4S, the 4F's only difference is the lack of clan-spec Lasers. Instead it adds an additional two tons of ammunition at the cost of half a ton of armor.

The HWK-3F, while still in service, is no longer produced. The original RetroTech version, it used much less efficient heat sinks, a heavier and less efficient engine, poor armor, and only carried a pair of 15 LRM launchers with its two MML-5s. It still sees action and service in both the Brotherhood, and neighboring Periphery States.

Image Shown: A HawkWolf from the 2nd Regiment near Valhalla.

Notable Units

Brother Carl Longstreet: A taciturn man, Brother Longstreet’s past is unknown before he arrived on Randis IV. He is an able leader and an excellent MechWarrior who handles his HawkWolf as if it was a ’Mech thirty tons lighter. He is an instructor at the Brotherhood’s Monastery, where his HawkWolf, which he calls Templar II, is a common sight on the training field. Excelling at the Dueling style of the Brotherhood, he is known to have trained on Haddings with the Mourning Knights, as several members of his Order have.



HawkWolf HWK-4S

Mass: 80 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3110
Cost: 9,601,950 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,049

Chassis: Advanced HWK Standard
Power Plant: Pitban 320 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Omega III-80A Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    2 Pinaka (CL) LRM-20s w/ Artemis IV FCS
    2 Cinquedea (IS) MML-5s w/ Artemis IV FCS
    3 ExoStar Pinnacle (CL) ER Small Lasers
Manufacturer: Kariban-Victoria
    Primary Factory: Moultrie, Haddings
Communications System: Hope M13 Howlder
Targeting and Tracking System: Hope HawkEye

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                     122 points                8.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                320                      22.50
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        10(20)                    0.00
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 247                 13.00
    Armor Locations: 1 HD, 1 LA, 1 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
    CASE II Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT                                          2.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     25           38
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  12
                                           L/R Torso     17           24
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  10
                                             L/R Arm     13           26
                                             L/R Leg     17           34

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) ER Small Laser                          CT        2         1         0.50
(IS) MML-5                                   RT        3         3         3.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           RT        -         1         1.00
(CL) ER Small Laser                          RT        2         1         0.50
(IS) MML-5                                   LT        3         3         3.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           LT        -         1         1.00
(CL) ER Small Laser                          LT        2         1         0.50
(CL) LRM-20                                  RA        6         4         5.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           RA        -         1         1.00
(CL) LRM-20                                  LA        6         4         5.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           LA        -         1         1.00
@LRM-20 (Artemis) (12)                       RT        -         2         2.00
@MML-5 (SRM Art-IV) (20)                     RT        -         1         1.00
@MML-5 (LRM Art-IV) (24)                     LT        -         1         1.00
@LRM-20 (Artemis) (12)                       LT        -         2         2.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 15

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      8    Points: 20
4          6       6       4       0      4     0   Structure:  6
Special Abilities: CASEII, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 4

Notes: Features the Following Design Quirks: Easy to Maintain, Fast Reload, No/Minimal Arms, Protected Actuators.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:20, Fri 19 Apr 2019.

History

The Word of Blake's Jihad had taken a massive toll on all of the Inner Sphere's heavy manufacturing companies, but it was especially harsh for the still young Aegis Conglomeration. While Aerostar and Bell Dynamic had managed to bounce back into the black by 3081 and 3086, respectively, Kariban Motors had a much more difficult time due to the allocation of its resources. With the Bristol plant completely destroyed, and its production on Alci heavily restricted by the Treaty of 3084, Kariban was on the verge of a forced merger by either of the other Aegis corporations by 3086.

Luckily Kariban had a trump card it had yet to play, because just before the start of the Jihad, its research team had completely re-engineered the manufacturing process to develop the clan-spec XL Fusion Engine. While this discovery would enhance future BattleMechs and vehicles from the Aegis partners, it would take too much time to implement to save the company. Instead, CEO Jaina Moon proposed a different solution with the creation of Kariban-Victoria, a subsidiary that started out by simply offering technical expertise to upgrade other major manufacturers capabilities. The El Dorado's division of General Motors was their first candidate, and the Warlord was the first BattleMech to benefit from the new venture.

Originally designed with a standard engine in mind, using an Endo-Steel Structure and advanced weaponry, the Jihad had disrupted the supply of off-world made endo-steel. While GM turned turned to their own XL engine to compensate, the bulky design always left it more fragile than originally intended, even with a small increase of armor coverage. Offering its services, Kariban-Victoria helped to enhance the line that produced the XL engine, and brought it up to clan-spec capabilities that made it smaller and more rugged than the Helm Core design. It was a partnership that proved incredibly profitable for Kariban, as the patented engine design would insure that every engine installed into every Warlord would bring in much needed revenue.

Kariban-Victoria had more planned than that though, as they also obtained a precentage of Warlords from every production run for the first five years, which it then turned around and seold to mercenary units and the 12th Star Guards both. While Kariban-Victoria would extend similar deals to other BattleMech manufacturers, it retained a special relationship with GM that would bear further fruit with the Templar III and several other designs. The subsidiary began to order whole runs of partially stripped Warlords, arming them with clan-spec weaponry for special customers, and most importantly the 12th Star Guards.

Capabilities

Considered the official variant for the 12th Star Guards, the BLR-4G is a perfect example of the Guards' doctrine shift in the late 31st Century. Equipped entirely with energy weapons, the Warlord can lay down a withering level of fire from long to medium range. Replacing the weaponry of GM's standard model with clan-spec weaponry, one ER PPC in each arm and three Medium Pulse Laser in both the right and left torsos, the Warlord's greatest bane is still the heat it produces. To counter this to some degree, Kariban has included an additional three double heat sinks as well as fitting a specialized computer system similar to that used by the Stalker. With a top speed of 64 kilometers per hour, the Warlord is capable with keeping up with most heavy and even medium BattleMechs used by the 12th Star Guards. With a jump range of 120 meters, it also has a maneuverability most wouldn't expect from an Assault machine.

Deployment

The Warlord has been a staple in the AFFS since it was first produced, but with increased production and its cutting edge engine, the 3G has became a favorite throughout the Davion regiments. The Crucis Lancers in particular have had a special love for the Warlord, and it has seen action along the borders of the Draconis March, and unsurprisingly in the ranks of the Swordsworn.

The 4G variant seen in all of the 12th Star Guard Regiments except for the Fourth, but it has found its greatest proponents in both the 2nd and 5th Regiments, one of the few things the two units seem to agree on. Limited numbers have also been seen among the Kell Hounds, which is unsurprising considering the strong relationship the Hounds have had with the Guards since the Clan invasion.

Variants: BLR-3G, BLR-2CM.

Similar to the 4G, the 3G is a less advanced variant that uses Helm Core technology instead of the more cutting edge clan-spec that the 4G does. This forces the 3G to use a pair of Heavy PPCs and six ER Medium Lasers. With the increase in weight, it does not have either the jumping ability, nor greater heat dissipation ability of the 4G.

The 2CM on the other hand is a unique model from Kariban-Victoria based on an prototype from General Motors. Built for unit commanders in mind, the 2CM drops the Jump Jets and one heat sink in order to fit in an extensive electronics suite, including a command console in the cockpit to provide a commander with every bit of information he could need. With its computer being pulled and replaced with one similar to the venerable Cyclops', the 2CM doesn't lose out in firepower, but it is more restricted by its heat curve.


Notable Units

Colonel Evan Kell: Commander of the Kell Hounds mercenary unit, the Colonel comes from a long line of Mechwarriors. While he began his career in an Archer owned by his ancestor, Morgan Kell, he received a 2CM as a birthday gift from Lt. General Akram Arcand in 3113. Since then the Colonel has used the Warlord in every engagement he has led against the Jade Falcons, its black and red paint job a sign of victory for his troops.


Warlord BLR-4G

Mass: 80 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-D-D-A
Production Year: 3091
Cost: 18,731,640 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,950

Chassis: Hollis Mark X III Standard
Power Plant: KM 320 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: Seraph IX
    Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Starshield Special Heavy Standard Armor
Armament:
    2 Arcas (CL) ER PPCs
    6 Sutel Exemplar (CL) Medium Pulse Lasers
    1 Jaguar ECM Suite
Manufacturer: Kariban-Victoria, General Motors
    Primary Factory: Bristol (Kariban-Victoria), El Dorado (General Motors)
Communications System: Sony MSF-31 w/ECM Suite
Targeting and Tracking System: Federated Stalker

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                     122 points                8.00
Engine:             XL Engine                    320                      11.50
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 4 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LL, 2 RL                                         4.00
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        19(38)                    9.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 CT, 2 LT, 2 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV - 247                 15.50

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     25           38
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  12
                                           L/R Torso     17           26
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8
                                             L/R Arm     13           26
                                             L/R Leg     17           34

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ECM Suite                                    HD        0         1         1.00
3 (CL) Medium Pulse Lasers                   RT        12        3         6.00
3 (CL) Medium Pulse Lasers                   LT        12        3         6.00
(CL) ER PPC                                  RA        15        2         6.00
(CL) ER PPC                                  LA        15        2         6.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 14

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      8    Points: 30
4j         6       6       3       0      4     2   Structure:  4
Special Abilities: ECM, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Notes: Features the following Design Quirks: Combat Computer, Improved Communications.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:51, Wed 08 May 2019.

History

Initially designed in 3051 when Vining Engineering and Salvage Team, or VEST, corporate officers tasked their engineers with designing meant to be able to match the best BattleMechs that the Inner Sphere or the Clans had to offer, the Grand Titan took a convoluted path to Bell Dynamic's manufacturing lines. Despite already having technical difficulties and design problems, the engineering team was being constantly given new or changed requirements, causing the project to be started from scratch several times in the three years of development. As a result, the VEST marketing department sold Earthwerks a design that significantly differed from the final product, something which the manufacturing giant was less than pleased with. Refusing to pay for the design, and even threatening to sue over the event, VEST was in a rather tight spot when it went looking for other customers in 3054.

Bell Dynamic on the other hand was flourishing, as it couldn't get orders out as fast as they came in, but it was lacking a solid contender in the Assault class, and by association so were the 12th Star Guards. While not as wealthy as Earthwerks, nor as able to pay as much for the sole ownership of the design, Bell was capable of providing samples of clan-spec weaponry which could then be used on many of VESTS more experimental and custom designs. The deal was made, and Bell Dynamic was left with a 'Mech that, while not the ultimate Assault machine, is one that stands steady among its peers.

This was proved by the Guards, who had a five year long exclusive contract on the Grand Titan's production runs, when they used it extensively in their rebuilt Regiments throughout the their various battles leading up to the Great Refusal, and its exposure to so many other national units through that caused a great amount of interest in the design. The Grand Titan would become the corporations' best selling product, and gave it a much appreciated boost in profits that would allow even further expansion. This capital would mostly end up developing Alci during the Jihad, making the Grand Titan a favorite design among Bell's owners. In 3117, this favor was shown when it received a major upgrade of its systems to the clan-spec version most often seen today.

Capabilities

Built on a cutting edge Endo-Steel chassis and with a KM 400 XL Engine to save as much weight as possible, the Grand Titan is able to reach a top speed of 64.8 kph that allows it to keep up at a surprising speed for a 100 ton design. With 15.5 tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor protecting its frame, it has a more than respectable ability to receive damage without falling. With the addition of the Lightstar laser anti-missile system and 20 double heat sinks, the newest variant is able to stay in action longer than its predecessors, and the majority of its contemporaries.

While its offensive capabilities never gave it the ability to claim the title of an ultimate Assault 'Mech, there is no doubt that the design has always been a focused, medium to close-range fighter that has always had a strong hand even at farther ranges. With the upgrade of all equipment to clan-spec weaponry, this has only allowed the Grand Titan to extend that strong hand, and become even more deadly in close range. With a Pinaka missile system in its left arm replacing the the heavier Inner Sphere design, that long range has become more deadly, while the two Large Pulse Lasers and two Medium Pulse Lasers provide the bulk of its offensive ability at medium range. Supporting those pulse lasers are the twin SRM-6 racks equipped with an Artemis IV fire-control system, giving a further high damage punch while including a flexible ammunition load in its three ton bins. Finally a pair of Micro Pulse Lasers are fit at the Grand Titan's rear, meant to discourage enemy Battle Armor and regular infantry.

Deployment

While the most recent variant of the Grand Titan has had limited production runs for foreign nations, the Lyran Commonwealth has remained one of its main customers. Often seeing action on the Jade Falcon border, the Grand Titan has more than proven itself against its Clan opponents. Older variants are seen throughout AFFS and in the Oriente Protectorate, and the Regulus Fifes, though on hotly debated rumor that the Fifes had modified several to be used in conjunction with nuclear weapons, the former Free Worlds state was blacklisted by the Aegis Conglomerate.

Among the 12th Star Guards, the 'Mech remains most popular among the 2nd and 7th Regiments, though the Fifth has more than a few of their own.

Variants:T-IT-N11M, T-IT-N10C, T-IT-N10N

While there are older variants, the most popular was the N11M that traded out much of its armament for an ER PPC and clan-spec Gauss Rifle, giving it a much more powerful long range punch at the cost of much of its close combat capabilities. N10C on the other hand goes in the other direction, stripping the paired ER Large Lasers for a melee capable hatchet, while removing its missile systems for medium lasers, jump jets, and the addition of TSM to make it a melee monster. The N10N is a recent variant that makes for a tougher, cheaper, Assault 'Mech while losing none of the power of the original. The N10N uses a smaller and more common Vlar 300 standard fusion engine, which caps its top speed at 57 kmp/h, and removes one of the SRM-6s, one ton of ammunition, and both Micro Pulse Lasers. The variant uses the weight saved to install the new Tsuruchi Rotary Laser System/5, along with an extra ton of armor and several more heat sinks to handle the heat load.

Image Shown: A Grand Titan from the 5th Regiment's 9th Company, overlooking a farming village in District 7

Notable Units

Major Sam Wessel: Commander of the Mournful Knights, the Fourth Battalion of the Star Guards' 5th Regiment, Wessel is famous for his strict dueling and personal moral code, even among his own command. An example to his subordinates, Wessel uses his unmodified Grand Titan like a surgeon from a distance, then like a battle axe once he has reached his optimal range. Famous among Haddings, Wessel has actually begun a small youth organization called the 'Junior Knights' that focuses on community service and honorable behavior.


Grand Titan T-IT-N12M

Mass: 100 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-F-A
Production Year: 3117
Cost: 29,919,333 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,697

Chassis: Corean Model 101BLPC Endo-Steel
Power Plant: KM 400 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Heavy Standard Armor
Armament:
    2 Nidavellir (CL) Large Pulse Lasers
    1 Pinaka (CL) LRM-20 w/ Artemis IV FCS
    2 Nidavellir (CL) Medium Pulse Lasers
    2 Wilcox (CL) SRM-6s w/ Artemis IV FCS
    2 Nidavellir (CL) Micro Pulse Lasers
    1 Lightstar (CL) Laser Anti-Missile System
Manufacturer: Bell Dynamic
    Primary Factory: Solaris VII, Alci
Communications System: Hartford JEA-1
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P FiberFeed 201 with Artemis IV FCS Interface

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                   152 points                5.00
    Internal Locations: 1 LT, 2 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA
Engine:             XL Engine                    400                      26.50
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        17(34)                    7.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 RL
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV - 296                 18.50
    CASE Locations: LT, RT                                                 0.00
    CASE II Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT                                          1.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     31           49
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  12
                                           L/R Torso     21           31
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  11
                                             L/R Arm     17           31
                                             L/R Leg     21           40

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Laser Anti-Missile System               HD        5         1         1.00
(CL) SRM-6                                   RT        4         1         1.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           RT        -         1         1.00
(R) (CL) Micro Pulse Laser                   RT        1         1         0.50
(CL) SRM-6                                   LT        4         1         1.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           LT        -         1         1.00
(R) (CL) Micro Pulse Laser                   LT        1         1         0.50
2 (CL) Large Pulse Lasers                    RA        20        4        12.00
(CL) Medium Pulse Laser                      RA        4         1         2.00
(CL) Medium Pulse Laser                      LA        4         1         2.00
(CL) LRM-20                                  LA        6         4         5.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           LA        -         1         1.00
@SRM-6 (Artemis) (15)                        RT        -         1         1.00
@SRM-6 (Artemis) (30)                        LT        -         2         2.00
@LRM-20 (Artemis) (18)                       LT        -         3         3.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 8

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:     10    Points: 27
4          7       7       4       0      4     1   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: AMS, CASEII, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1

Notes: Features the following Design Quirks: Combat Computer.
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:23, Wed 24 Apr 2019.

History

The last redesign of its original line up made by Bell Dynamic, and the only one done without Felifious Bander leading the design team, the Heqet had a troublesome birth. The Xanthos, the Heqet's parent design, had initially been intended as a rather experimental idea for a mobile fortress and command center for planetary militias. Popular among the edges of the Inner Sphere and minor Periphery nations, where BattleMech forces were rarely part of of a pirate band, the Xanthos was far less popular even among the militias of minor worlds closer towards Terra. In 3065 this almost killed the Xanthos design entirely, as the Federated Commonwealth's civil war disrupted trade with Bell Dynamic's outlying customers, and the Jihad closely following the conflict closed the market entirely to the Aegis partner.

In truth it was inevitable that the production of the Xanthos would end, as unlike the rest of Bell Dynamic's inventory the Xanthos had never managed to overcome the deep flaws of its original quad design. For the Xanthos, the redesign was not just an upgrade, it was the only way further production could be justified.

It was not an easy redesign though, and while Bell Dynamic had a dozen examples of the quad BattleMechs used by the Word of Blake from battlefield salvage, the stride and motive system were nearly impossible to make comfortable and natural enough that the common Mechwarrior would be willing to pilot it. However, in a sudden and rather mysterious turn of fortune a month before the project was to be scrapped, Bell Dynamic was able to create a specialized and smaller gyro as well as a whole new suspension system for the rear legs. There have been many theories over the years on how this radical discovery occurred, from kidnapped scientists to a computer core discovery, but Bell Dynamic has chosen not to comment on the Matter. At the time, with the unsure nature of Haddings' relationship with the Republic, the 12th Star Guards needed a solid and home built Assault class that was easily accessible. While the Grand Titan had taken that role up in the past, with the Word of Blake destroying much of the Solaris VII plant upon their loss of the planet, it would be a decade before the the repaired and new lines would be implemented, and the Aegis Board found the new quad design to be a godsend.

Named after an Egyptian god of resurrection, a nod to the difficult journey and sudden last minute save from the death that its design had, the Heqet has slowly become a popular model among the regiments. Often called the 'Frog' for both its looks and its gait, the Heqet is amazingly easy to pilot to the point that it is even used as a trainer for both Quad and Assault BattleMechs at the First Sword Military Academy. While many mock its looks, its pilots are a proud lot, and more than one Gunslinger has come from their ranks over the years.

Capabilities

At 100 tons, with nearly of that weight given to ferro-fibrous armor for protection and a standard engine, the Heqet provides an incredibly tough foundation as an Assault Platform, something both manufactured variants take advantage of. It is the 2A, while being the second variant, that is considered and excellent long rang anchor for any formation. Equipped with two Gauss Rifles, fed by four tons of ammunition, paired with two clan-spec ER Large Lasers, the 2A can easily cripple many other 'Mechs before they can even get within their effective range. However, the Heqet remains lightly armed for closer ranged combat, its pair of SRM-2 launchers and Micro-Pulse Laser intended more as protection against enemy Battle armor rather than enemy 'Mechs. Two ER Medium Lasers round out its compliment, meant to hold off any enemy in its medium range.

Deployment

While it is a mainstay of the 12th Star Guards, both variants are very popular among mercenary forces, due to their relatively low price and incredible toughness. As an Assault Platform, the 2A has been found with Hansen's Roughriders, the Eridani Light Horse, and the Screaming Eagles mercenary units. While slightly less popular, the 1A is scene with planetary militias throughout the Lyran Commonwealth, Marik-Stewart Commonwealth, and the regiments of the Duchy of Tamarind-Abbey.

Variant: HQT-X2-1A, HQT-X2-XS

The only other production variant is actually the initial design, and is a reflection of its parent design's use as an Artillery Assault machine. While it retains one Gauss Rifle and ER Large Laser, both mated to a targeting computer to make its more limited firepower count, the inclusion of an Arrow IV launcher allows it to support any comrades at a truly long range. With a pair of SRM-4 missile systems providing more close range support alongside an ER Small Laser, the 1A also suffers from a lack of close combat power. While it lacks the ferro-fibrous armor, the 1A compensates by using a staggering 20 tons of standard armor to remain just as tenacious as the 2A.

A very rare variant, the HQT-X2-XS was originally just an extreme refit created by the 12th Star Guards' 5th Regiment, specifically from their 3rd Battalion. The 2nd Regiment would soon adopt the refit, though using it in a very different way, and now Bell Dynamic is producing limited runs of it to see how interested the market may be. Equipped with four Clan-spec ER PPCs, which already is a prodigious amount of fire power, the XS goes a step further by equipping all of them with capacitors. Four ER Medium Lasers are mounted on a turret in order to provide 360 degree firing capabilities, protecting it from harassing lighter 'Mechs, while the standard ECM was upgraded to an Angel ECM. However, there is only 19 tons of armor cladding its frame, and more importantly there are only 20 Double Heatsinks installed. This means that should all four ER PPCs be fired at once, not only will the 'Mech shutdown, there is a high chance of its pilot passing out and dying from the sudden heat exposure. This was corrected in both the 2nd Regiment's and the manufactured variant, with safety switches and programming making it impossible to fire anymore than two ER PPCs at a time. However, the 5th Regiment's version retains the capability to fire all four, giving the variant the nickname of 'Suicide'.


Notable Units

Sergeant Jessica Revine: While she has most recently shifted to the Templar III Omnimech upon her graduation from the Gunslinger Program, Revine has been considered one of the best Heqet pilots in the 12th Star Guards since 3128. Known for her near perfect aim, her favorite tactic is to use an opening shot to de-leg opponents in one blow. Her recent change of 'Mech has seemed to caused her to get the occasional cold shoulder from her former 'Frog' brethren.

Heqet HQT-X2-2A

Mass: 100 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Quad
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3081
Cost: 13,181,000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,908

Chassis: Bell XNT Mark VII Standard
Power Plant: KM 300 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 32.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 54.0 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Omega III-100AQ Heavy Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    2 Velocitas (CL) Gauss Rifles
    2 Hringhomi (CL) ER Large Lasers
    2 Nidavellir (CL) ER Medium Lasers
    2 Oliver (CL) SRM-2s
    1 Nidavellir  (CL) Micro Pulse Laser
Manufacturer: Bell Dynamic
    Primary Factory: Alci, Solaris VII
Communications System: Magni 432
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware S2R

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                     160 points               10.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                300                      19.00
    Walking MP: 3
    Running MP: 5
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        13(26)                    3.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT
Gyro:               Compact                                                4.50
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: H+UL+LL+F    R: H+UL+LL+F
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 323                 17.00
    Armor Locations: 2 RT, 2 FLL, 2 FRL, 1 RRL
    CASE II Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT                                          2.00

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     31           47
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  15
                                           L/R Torso     21           32
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  10
                                       L/R Front Leg     21           42
                                        L/R Rear Leg     21           42

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Micro Pulse Laser                       HD        1         1         0.50
(CL) Gauss Rifle                             RT        1         6        12.00
(CL) ER Large Laser                          RT        12        1         4.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         RT        5         1         1.00
(CL) Gauss Rifle                             LT        1         6        12.00
(CL) ER Large Laser                          LT        12        1         4.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         LT        5         1         1.00
(CL) SRM-2                                   RRL       2         1         0.50
(CL) SRM-2                                   RLL       2         1         0.50
@Gauss Rifle (32)                            CT        -         4         4.00
@SRM-2 (Inferno) (50)                        RT        -         1         1.00
@SRM-2 (50)                                  LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 1

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:     11    Points: 29
3          5       5       4       0      4     2   Structure:  8
Special Abilities: CASEII, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

This design has the following Design Quirks: Easy to Pilot, Stable.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:19, Fri 26 Apr 2019.

History

At the rebirth of the 1st Regiment in 3117, there was a question quietly asked. What access would it be given to the Regimental Omnimechs, as it was the unit meant to represent the Guards and their system as a whole? At the time the question was ignored, but by 3122 it was asked with a far louder voice, and in that moment Haddings showed it was not above the politics of the rest of the Inner Sphere, as none of the Regiments wished to share their totemic Omnimechs, at least not to a non 'Tribute'. Though frustrated by the reticence of the four Colonels, Lt. General Arcand let the argument pass on to his successor, who had a very different alternative in mind.

Instead he commissioned the development of a brand new Omnimech, based upon the long standing favorite design of the Talos, by the same engineering team that put together the more exclusive Guard Omnimechs. The result was the Storm Lord, a 50 ton Omnimech that, while not replacing, could certainly become the workhorse and symbol of the 12th Star Guards. It was three years in development before the team had it up and running, borrowing many of the parts from the standard Talos in order to ease maintenance and supply lines, while its communications and electronics were developed to be shared with future Omni designs. With nearly half of its weight devoted to weapons and equipment, the Storm Lord promised to be perfectly suited to any role needed of a Medium design.

After its testing was finished, the design was presented to the Aegis board for discussion on construction, and it was then that a snag was hit. Both Kariban and Bell Dynamic began a bidding war that soon threatened to rend the conglomerate apart as neither side was willing to give an inch. For years Bell Dynamic executives had become concerned, then threatened by the successful and continuing designs that Kariban-Victoria were providing the Guards. There were even the strong possibility that Kariban was looking to stage their own takeover of Bell in a reverse of what had nearly happened after the Jihad.

It was Rebecca Magnus, one of her last decisions before stepping down as CEO of Aerostar, that made the resolution that both the board and the 12th Star Guards would eventually approve. A new subsidiary partner of Aegis would be formed with Kariban, Bell, and Aerostar all having an equal stake. This new subsidiary, Aegis Engineering, would pursue all future Omnimech designs for the conglomerate, leaving standard BattleMechs to Bell and Kariban-Victoria. Over the past three years a manufacturing line was built on Alci, and in March of 3133, the first run of Storm Lords was finished and distribution was earmarked for the 1st Regiment, as will the next three runs.

Capabilities

With a 250 XL engine allowing a top speed of 85 kph, the Storm Lords is immediately faster than its proginator 'Mech, while its four permanently installed jump jets provide it with a great deal of maneuverability. Outfitted with Bell Dynamic's compact Gyro, and equipped with clan-spec endo-steel and eight tons of ferro-fibrous armor, the Storm Lord is not only only rugged, but also has a large amount of internal space free for weaponry.

In its primary configuration, it become essentially a faster Talos, with an ER PPC as its main weapon to provide long range fire that could continue in a closer range. Additionally, four ER Medium Lasers and two Streak SRM-6 missile systems were included to provide a withering medium to close range set of secondary weapons, allowing the Storm Lord to to easily step into the well known roll of the Talos.

With its advanced gyro, and the common familiarity every Mechwarrior of the Guards have with the Talos, it is surprisingly easy to pilot. This has allowed its pilots to focus more on other things, with many claiming that moving the Storm Lord was almost natural.

Deployment

The first ten Storm Lords have been exclusively deployed to the 1st Regiment, though not all have been activated. Off the record, it is believed that some are meant for both deployed companies, but they are also likely to be saved for additional units soon to be formed.

Configurations:

Surprisingly, most of the configurations use the Heavy Medium Laser, a recent development by Kariban-Victoria after reverse engineering samples from Clan Sea Fox. While the weapon's increased heat and interference with electronics is considered a flaw, research continues to improve the weapon, the current models remaining a stopgap until that time.

Configuration A takes the role of Medium Fire Support, with its pair of LRM-10 missiles systems with their Artemis IV fire control. The addition of an LB 10-X Autocannon is to further this role, often placing it in the anti-aircraft or conventional vehicle role as well. Its Heavy Medium Laser is meant to provide it with a powerful close range weapon, though with its speed it is meant to maintain a distance from enemy forces.

Configuration B uses the Rotary AC 5 in combination with an MML-9 missile system to provide medium ranged fire support. It too includes a single Heavy Medium Laser, but it is far more likely to use it in conjunction with its autocannon and differing missile loads.

Configuration C is built to be a long ranged sniper, with its targeting computer assisted Gauss Rifle. It also provides electronic support with the expensive and advanced Angel ECM unit installed in its left torso. With two Heavy Medium Lasers, which with the advanced computer compensating for its electronic disturbance, it can ward attackers off while trying to gain additional distance to bring its Gauss Rifle back into play. With three tons of ammunition, it playtime is long indeed.

The last official configuration, D, hearkens back to the Clan Nova, or Blackhawk, OmniMechs primary configuration. With a targeting computer to compensate, a total of six Heavy Medium Lasers make it a devastating close ranged fighter. To compensate for the high heat threshold, six additional double heat sinks were installed along with a Radical Heat Sink, a piece of equipment imported for this specific use. To aid in closing to range, a Supercharger was installed as well, bringing its top speed to 129 kph in short bursts.



Storm Lord SL-TLS-O1

Mass: 50 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Chassis Config: Biped Omnimech
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3133
Cost: 11,434,375 C-Bills
Battle Value: 765

Chassis: Dynamic TLS-34 Endo-Steel
Power Plant: KM 250 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 54.0 km/h
Maximum Speed: 86.4 km/h
Jump Jets: KM Silverfire
    Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Omega III-50M Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    23.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Aegis Engineering
    Primary Factory: Alci, ACG-3
Communications System: Magnus Multi-Channel 10X
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware XJ-7

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    83 points                2.50
    Internal Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Engine:             XL Engine                    250                       6.50
    Walking MP: 5
    Running MP: 8
    Jumping MP: 4 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT                                         2.00
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        10(20)                    0.00
Gyro:               Compact                                                4.50
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 163                  8.50
    Armor Locations: 1 HD, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL

                                                      Internal       Armor
                                                      Structure      Factor
                                                Head     3            9
                                        Center Torso     16           26
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  6
                                           L/R Torso     12           18
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  6
                                             L/R Arm     8            16
                                             L/R Leg     12           21

================================================================================
Loadout Name: Fixed Equipment                                Cost: 11,434,375
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 765

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 4  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT                                         0.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA



================================================================================
Loadout Name: Primary Weapons Configuration                  Cost: 13,431,250
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 2,462

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 4  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT                                         0.00
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        15(30)                    5.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 CT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 2 RA
    CASE II Locations: 1 LT                                                1.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         RT        5         1         1.00
(CL) Streak SRM-6                            RT        4         2         3.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         LT        5         1         1.00
(CL) Streak SRM-6                            LT        4         2         3.00
(CL) ER PPC                                  RA        15        2         6.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         RA        5         1         1.00
(CL) ER Medium Laser                         LA        5         1         1.00
@Streak SRM-6 (15)                           LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 9

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 25
5/3j       5       5       2       0      2     2   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASEII, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


================================================================================
Loadout Name: Configuration A                                Cost: 13,284,063
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 1,716

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 4  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT                                         0.00
    CASE Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT                                             1.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Heavy Medium Laser                      CT        7         2         1.00
(CL) LRM-10                                  RT        4         1         2.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           RT        -         1         1.00
(CL) LRM-10                                  LT        4         1         2.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           LT        -         1         1.00
(CL) LB 10-X AC                              RA        2         5        10.00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (10)                      RT        -         1         1.00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (10)                         RT        -         1         1.00
@LRM-10 (Artemis) (24)                       LT        -         2         2.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 13

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 17
5/3j       3       3       3       0      2     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 2, FLK 1/1/1


================================================================================
Loadout Name: Configuration B                                Cost: 12,899,688
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 1,597

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 4  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT                                         0.00
    CASE II Locations: 1 RT                                                1.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Heavy Medium Laser                      CT        7         2         1.00
(IS) MML-9                                   LT        5         5         6.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           LT        -         1         1.00
(IS) Rotary AC/5                             RA        1         6        10.00
@Rotary AC/5 (40)                            RT        -         2         2.00
@MML-9 (LRM Art-IV) (13)                     RT        -         1         1.00
@MML-9 (SRM Inferno) (11)                    RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 10

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 16
5/3j       5       4       1       0      2     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASEII, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1


================================================================================
Loadout Name: Configuration C                                Cost: 14,549,688
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 2,003

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 4  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT                                         0.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Targeting Computer                      CT        -         3         3.00
(CL) Heavy Medium Laser                      RT        7         2         1.00
(CL) Heavy Medium Laser                      LT        7         2         1.00
Angel ECM                                    LT        0         2         2.00
(CL) Gauss Rifle                             RA        1         6        12.00
Active Probe                                 LA        0         1         1.00
@Gauss Rifle (24)                            RT        -         2         3.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 10

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 20
5/3j       4       4       2       0      2     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, AECM, PRB, RCN, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


================================================================================
Loadout Name: Configuration D                                Cost: 18,195,625
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 2,358

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 4  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT                                         0.00
Heat Sinks:         (CL) Double Heat Sink        16(32)                    6.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Targeting Computer                      CT        -         2         2.00
Supercharger                                 CT        -         1         1.00
(CL) Heavy Medium Laser                      RT        7         2         1.00
(CL) Heavy Medium Laser                      LT        7         2         1.00
Radical Heat Sink                            LT        0         3         4.00
(CL) ER Large Laser                          LT        12        1         4.00
2 (CL) Heavy Medium Lasers                   RA        14        4         2.00
2 (CL) Heavy Medium Lasers                   LA        14        4         2.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 0

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 24
6/3j       5       5       1       0      2     3   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


Notes: Features the Following Design Quirks: Easy to Pilot, Improved Communications.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:10, Tue 12 May 2020.

Originally developed before the Clan Invasion, the first Florin was essentially a beefed up Sparrowhawk designed by Summit Aerospace, marketed more towards planetary militias or Periphery States instead of the Successor States' militaries. When Summit joined the Aegis Conglomerate, the 12th Star Guards ordered dozens of the Florin needing to replenish their Aerospace fighters. The simple nature of the interceptor meant that it could be easily with just a weapon change as it was already tough and fast, both which saw it through even into the Jihad without a major change.

When Summit split from Aegis during the FedComm Civil War, they only took their facilities, as the Florin Design had been liscensed to Aegis as a whole. Aerostar took instant advantage of this, pushing to quickly have the Florin be built on Haddings as well as maneuver itself into position to sell the craft to the Mercenary Alliance based out of Outreach. While it was still considered a bit low tech compared to many others, the swarms of Florins that the Guards and the 12 Star Alliance proved a match to the Word of Blake's Omnifighters through sheer maneuverability and numbers.

The Florin II is a recent upgrade, with an increase in Aerostar's other designs, the Company decided it was best to move forwards with the popular interceptor and include much of quality of the technology Aegis and the Guards were now able to produce. Now using an XL 320 to provide it the same movement profile and Ferro-aluminum, the Florin II has upgraded its weapons with Nidavellir grade ER Medium lasers, and two Streak SRM-6s. The advanced targeting of the Streaks means the Florin now hits far more reliably, and with its speed, its extended laser range only means that it conducts its interceptor duties with the same reliability the Florin is known for.


Notable Units: Lieutenant 2nd Grade Ven Gannick

Until he flew a Florin, Lieutenant Gannick was not considered an excellent Aerospace Pilot. In fact, it was only because he was shot out of his Corsair and forced to use a Florin that he was ever put into one. During the Jihad he led his Squadron into many engagements, and with their massed firepower, speed, and trained formation flying the Florins were devastating to heavier fighters and bombers.


Florin Mk. II

Model:             FLN-II-1A
Tech:              Mixed Tech  /  3100
Vessel Type:       Aerospace Fighter
Rules:             Level 3, Standard design
Rules Set:         AeroTech2
Era:               Dark Ages
Production Year:   3118

Mass:              40 tons
Power Plant:       Kariban 320 XL Fusion
Safe Thrust:       10
Maximum Thrust:    15
Armor Type:        Starlight II Ferro-aluminum
Armament:
    3 ER Medium Laser (C)
    2 Streak SRM 6 (C)

Manufacturer: Aerostar
    Primary Factory: Valhalla, Haddings
Communications System: Magni Supreme 12E
Targeting and Tracking System: Magni Fireware XJ2

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class/Model/Name:  Florin II
Mass:              40 tons

Equipment:                                                              Mass
Power Plant: Kariban 320 XL Fusion                                      11.50
Thrust:  Safe Thrust: 10
      Maximum Thrust: 15
Structural Integrity: 10                                                  .00
Total Heat Sinks:    10 Double                                            .00
Fuel:                                                                    4.00
Cockpit & Attitude Thrusters:                                            3.00
Armor Type:  Alpha II Ferro-aluminum  (192 total armor pts)             10.00
                           Standard Scale Armor Pts
   Location:                            L / R
   Nose:                                 64
   Left/Right Wings:                  40/40
   Aft:                                  48

Weapons and Equipment      Loc        SRV    MRV    LRV    ERV  Heat    Mass
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 ER Medium Laser (C)      Nose         7      7     --     --   10      2.00
1 Streak SRM 6 (C)         RW          12     12     --     --    4      3.00
1 Streak SRM 6 (C)         LW          12     12     --     --    4      3.00
  Ammo (Streak 6) 30       ---                                           2.00
1 ER Medium Laser (C)      Aft          7      7     --     --    5      1.00
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTALS:                                                    Heat: 23     39.50
Tons Left:                                                                .50

Calculated Factors:
Total Cost:        6,270,640 C-Bills
Battle Value:      1,889
Cost per BV:       3,319.56
Weapon Value:      2,131 (Ratio = 1.13)
Damage Factors:    SRV = 36;  MRV = 28;  LRV = 0;  ERV = 0
BattleForce2:      MP: 10,  Armor/Structure: 5 / 0
                   Damage PB/M/L: 4/4/-,  Overheat: 0
                   Class: FL;  Point Value: 19

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:22, Sun 30 July 2017.

The Obolus is the most recent project to come out of Aerostar, with only a total of 24 currently in service. The second Omnifighter to come from the company, it also has the current status of being the only known Stealth Aerospace Fighter in existence. Even after its first introduction in 3129, the Obolus has been carefully tested and analyzed every step of its slow integration into the Navy of the 12th Star Guards. Initially the Obolus was envisioned as a heavy interceptor, the decision to turn it into an Omnifighter came halfway through the design process when the initial team saw the benefit of giving a stealth fighter an inherent flexibility.

Based on the Florin chassis, the Obolus' centerpiece is the use of Kariban's Blackguard Stealth armor, though this always requires the fighter to use more five more Double Heatsinks than it normally would need, just to keep the increased heat from the Stealth system from overloading a pilot in the midst of combat, or require them to turn it off. With the system on, the Obolus is completely invisible to electronic and heat detecting sensors, making their follow up attack with an interceptor flight a complete surprise. Additionally, when they take up the role of escort, they have an absolute edge against an attacking opponent.

While it is an Omnifighter the Obolus currently only has one configuration, the prime that equips two Large Pulse Lasers and four Medium Pulse Lasers. This is used in its current role as a heavy interceptor, but with 22 tons of pod space, it leaves quite a bit of room for a variety of weapon configurations. Currently the pilots assigned to an Obolus are acting as a testing group, developing new configurations and understanding just how the Stealth armor changes space combat.


Obolus

Model:             Obolus OLS-O1
Tech:              Mixed Tech  /  3100
Vessel Type:       Aerospace Omnifighter
Era:               Dark Ages
Production Year:   3129

Mass:              60 tons
Power Plant:       300 XL Fusion (IS)
Safe Thrust:        7
Maximum Thrust:    11
Armor Type:        Blackguard IV Stealth
Armament:
    22 Tons Pod Space

Manufacturer: Aerostar
    Primary Factory: Valhalla, Haddings
Communications System: Magni Supreme 12E
Targeting and Tracking System: Magni Fireware XJ2

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class/Model/Name:  Obolus
Mass:              60 tons

Equipment:                                                              Mass
Power Plant: Kariban 300 XL Fusion                                       9.50
Thrust:  Safe Thrust:  7
      Maximum Thrust: 11
Structural Integrity:  7                                                 6.00
Total Heat Sinks:    12 Double                                           2.00
Fuel:  160                                                               6.00
Cockpit & Attitude Thrusters:                                            3.00
Armor Type:  Blackguard IV Vehicle Stealth  (232 total armor pts)       14.50
                           Standard Scale Armor Pts
   Location:                            L / R
   Nose:                                 78
   Left/Right Wings:                  46/45
   Aft:                                  64

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat     Spaces     Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Angel ECM Suite                             Aft        10         2       2.00
================================================================================
Loadout Name: Prime                                        Cost: 10,997,187
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A                       BV2: 2,569
Rules Level: Experimental Tech                          Tech Base: Mixed

Weapons and Equipment      Loc        SRV    MRV    LRV    ERV  Heat    Mass
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 Medium Pulse Laser (C)   Nose         8      8     --     --    8      4.00
1 Large Pulse Laser (C)    RW          10     10     10     --   10      6.00
1 Large Pulse Laser (C)    LW          10     10     10     --   10      6.00
2 Medium  Laser (C)        Aft          8      8     --     --    8      2.00

19 Double Heat Sinks (C)                                                 9.00
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTALS:                                                    Heat: 43     29.00
Tons Left:                                                               0.00


This message was last edited by the GM at 04:22, Sun 30 July 2017.

When Aerostar first began under Rebecca Magnus, she knew that the fledgling company couldn't just rely on the Florin to support the Guards with real Aerospace fighters. Luckily though, the Guards were fresh from the destruction of the Smoke Jaguars, and rich with technical data plundered from the Clan. Using some of the most effective Clan Omnifighters, both data and salvage, Aerostar developed the Solidus to replace the aging Corsair as the Guards' dogfighter of choice. While it was always intended to eventually become an Omnifighter, at the time the company just didn't have the resources to design and produce such an advanced craft.

Instead, they created a hard hitting dogfighter that shined during the Jihad using advanced Clan technology from the beginning. While there were only two Wings active through the whole Jihad, the decade long war proved the quality of the design in a way that years of testing never could. The Solidus was immensely popular among its pilots, and once Aerostar got its factories fully functioning, the Solidus was the first craft ordered in large numbers. In 3104, it was decided to upgrade the fighter to increase in its toughness and firepower, and so the Solidus II made its first appearance in 3106, after two years of development and testing, Aerostar not wanting to risk one of its best products to possible failure.

Keeping the curved and deadly profile, the Solidus II upgraded to its Starlight Ferro-Aluminum armor, then added an Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle as its long reaching punch, replacing the former ER PPC. With an additional 2 ER Large Lasers for strafing and long ranged attacks, Aerostar added 8 ER Medium lasers, two of them covering its rear to keep enemy fighters off its tail, while six point forward for the close combat purposes. As a strafing support, heavy dogfighter, or bomber escort, the Solidus II is an excellent design even without being a Omnifighter. Recently, there have been rumors of a Solidus III that finally does give it that final bit of versatility.

Image Shown: A Solidus from the Bloodhunter Squadron flies in the upper Atmosphere of Haddings near the Ringline.

Notable Units: Commander Leon Magnus

While today he might be best known for founding Aerostar, in truth Commander Magnus was never interested in the business beyond what it provided for the Guards and his own flying. He was the first to pull his Squadron, then Wing, into the Solidus when it was first created to free up more machines for newer pilots, as well as fly the cutting edge craft. Magnus was known to truly embrace the lifestyle of a fighter jock, and he was equally known for his skill behind the stick. His personal Squadron, the Bloodhunters, was known to all be aces a dozen times over during the Jihad with their Solidus easily keeping up with WoB Omnifighters.


Solidus II

Model:             Solidus SLD-II-1A
Tech:              Mixed Tech  /  3067
Vessel Type:       Aerospace Fighter
Rules:             Level 3, Standard design
Rules Set:         AeroTech2
Era:               Dark Ages
Production Year:   3106

Mass:              75 tons
Power Plant:       Kariban 300 XLF
Safe Thrust:       6
Maximum Thrust:    9
Armor Type:        Starlight Ferro-aluminum
Armament:
    1 Imp. Heavy Gauss Rif(IS)*
    2 ER Large Laser (C)
    8 ER Medium Laser (C)

Manufacturer: Aerostar
    Primary Factory: Valhalla, Haddings
Communications System: Magni Supreme 12E
Targeting and Tracking System: Magni Fireware XJ2

------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class/Model/Name:  Solidus II
Mass:              75 tons

Equipment:                                                              Mass
Power Plant:  300 XL Fusion                                              9.50
Thrust:  Safe Thrust: 6
      Maximum Thrust: 9
Structural Integrity: 7                                                   .00
Total Heat Sinks:    16 Double                                           6.00
Fuel:                                                                    4.00
Cockpit & Attitude Thrusters:                                            3.00
Armor Type:  Clan Ferro-aluminum  (240 total armor pts)                 12.50
                           Standard Scale Armor Pts
   Location:                            L / R
   Nose:                                 80
   Left/Right Wings:                  60/60
   Aft:                                  40

Weapons and Equipment      Loc        SRV    MRV    LRV    ERV  Heat    Mass
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Imp. Heavy Gauss Rif(IS)*Nose        22     22     22     --    2     20.00
  Ammo (Imp Hvy Gauss) 16  ---                                           4.00
2 ER Large Laser (C)       Nose        10     10     10     10   24      8.00
3 ER Medium Laser (C)      RW           7      7     --     --   15      3.00
3 ER Medium Laser (C)      LW           7      7     --     --   15      3.00
2 ER Medium Laser (C)      Aft          7      7     --     --   10      2.00
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTALS:                                                    Heat: 66     75.00
Tons Left:                                                                .00

Calculated Factors:
Total Cost:        12,296,006 C-Bills
Battle Value:      2,565
Cost per BV:       4,793.76
Weapon Value:      3,408 (Ratio = 1.33)
Damage Factors:    SRV = 44;  MRV = 34;  LRV = 6;  ERV = 0
BattleForce2:      MP: 6,  Armor/Structure: 6 / 0
                   Damage PB/M/L: 5/5/3,  Overheat: 3
                   Class: FH;  Point Value: 26

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:23, Sun 30 July 2017.

There was an interesting trend after the Jihad when dealing with Blakist salvage and technology. The vast majority of the Inner Sphere who was affected shunned it, painting it with the same brush as that of the men and women who used it. For the 12th Star Guards, this was a foolish and stupid thing to do, as they had depended on salvaged supplies and WoB technology just to survive in their pocket for years, they saw no reason to throw it away now that the Jihad was over. While surely some of the technology discovered had reprehensible implications on how it was developed, the already impressive medical program in New Rome grew even further.

Perhaps the most recognizable piece the Guards, and later Aerostar, continued to use was the Soldo Omnifighter. Originally built using various salvage from all of the WoB's fighters, the Soldo was created to replace the lost Ahabs that had become unserviceable by 3071. While it was obviously created using the enemy's vehicles, it quickly became a huge hit among the bomber wing and especially with 2nd Lieutenant Remy Galliante. When the war was over, Aerostar was granted all the additional Salvage the Guards had left over, and by 3094 they had the facilities and expertise to develop a brand new Soldo that had a much more stable constructed base. While the 2A has upgraded its engine and armor, allowing for even more pod space, the bomber isn't that different from its original cobbled design.

Sporting the moving wings the WoB Fighters were famous for, the Soldo usually tricks both the eye and sensors into thinking it is a simple shuttle until its wings sweep back for attack runs. Its Prime Configuration remains the massive missile boat that was its original roll, but its Configuration A has turned into a monster of a strafing craft, meant to be called in to break up fortified positions. While not as common, Configuration C is often used on suspected pirate Dropships, causing massive amounts of damage with its missiles and Improved Heavy Gauss Rifle.
Finally, while it was rarely used as such, the Soldo can also mount hard points for Alamo nuclear warheads, causing great threat to Dropships, Pocket Warships, and even true warships in a squadron.

Image Shown: Soldo over Haddings as the sun rises, opposite of the Ringline.

Notable Units: 2nd Lieutenant Remy Galliante

While she is best known for using her Ahab through the majority of her career, like all of the other venerable missile boats, it suffered serious malfunctions due to poor equipment supplies during the Jihad. Shifting into the Soldo, Galliante's  Squadron would be responsible for 3 of the 6 Warship kills shared among her Wing.





Soldo

Model:             Soldo SLD-O2
Tech:              Mixed Tech  /  3100
Vessel Type:       Aerospace OmniFighter
Rules:             Level 3, Standard design
Rules Set:         AeroTech2
Era:               Dark Ages
Production Year:   3094

Mass:              95 tons
Power Plant:       Kariban 285 XL Fusion
Safe Thrust:       5
Maximum Thrust:    8
Armor Type:        Juggernaut II Heavy Ferro
Armament:
                   61 Tons Pod Space

Manufacturer: Aerostar
     Primary Factory: Valhalla, Haddings
Communications System: Magni Supreme 12E
Targeting and Tracking System: Magni Fireware XJ2
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class/Model/Name:  Soldo (Base)
Mass:              95 tons

Equipment:                                                              Mass
Power Plant:  285 XL Fusion                                              8.50
Thrust:  Safe Thrust: 5
      Maximum Thrust: 8
Structural Integrity: 9                                                   .00
Total Heat Sinks:    10 Double                                            .00
Fuel:                                                                    5.00
Cockpit & Attitude Thrusters:                                            3.00
Armor Type:  *Heavy Ferro*  (347 total armor pts)                       17.50
                           Standard Scale Armor Pts
   Location:                            L / R
   Nose:                                118
   Left/Right Wings:                  86/86
   Aft:                                  57

Weapons and Equipment      Loc        SRV    MRV    LRV    ERV  Heat    Mass
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 C.A.S.E. Equipment (C)   Body                                           .00
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTALS:                                                     Heat: 0     34.00
Tons Left:                                                              61.00


Calculated Factors:
Total Cost:        16,011,955 C-Bills
Battle Value:      985
Cost per BV:       16,255.79
Weapon Value:      0 (Ratio = .00)
Damage Factors:    SRV = 0;  MRV = 0;  LRV = 0;  ERV = 0
BattleForce2:      MP: 5,  Armor/Structure: 9 / 0
                   Damage PB/M/L: -/-/-,  Overheat: 0
                   Class: FH;  Point Value: 10
                   Specials: omni

Primary Configuration

Weapons and Equipment      Loc        SRV    MRV    LRV    ERV  Heat    Mass
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 ER Large Laser(C)        Nose        10     10     10     10   24      8.00
3 LRM 15(C)+ArtIV          RW          12     12     12     --   15     13.50
3 LRM 15(C)+ArtIV          LW          12     12     12     --   15     13.50
  Ammo (LRM 15) 96         ---                                          12.00
2 ER Medium Laser(C)       Aft          7      7     --     --   10      2.00
1 C.A.S.E. Equipment (C)   Body                                           .00
12 Double Heat Sinks       ---                                          12.00
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTALS:                                                    Heat: 64     95.00
Tons Left:                                                                .00
Battle Value: 3203
Total Cost:        22,874,392 C-Bills

A Configuration

Weapons and Equipment      Loc        SRV    MRV    LRV    ERV  Heat    Mass
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Ultra AC/20(C)           Nose        30     30     --     --   14     12.00
  Ammo (Ult AC/20) 20      ---                                           4.00
2 ER Large Laser(C)        Nose        10     10     10     10   24      8.00
4 ER Medium Laser(C)       RW           7      7     --     --   20      4.00
4 ER Medium Laser(C)       LW           7      7     --     --   20      4.00
2 ER Medium Laser(C)       Aft          7      7     --     --   10      2.00
1 C.A.S.E. Equipment (C)   Body                                           .00
27 Double Heat Sinks                                                    27.00
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTALS:                                                    Heat: 88     95.00
Tons Left:                                                                .00
Battle Value:      3445
Total Cost:        19,555,642 C-Bills

B Configuration

Weapons and Equipment      Loc        SRV    MRV    LRV    ERV  Heat    Mass
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Imp Hvy Gauss Rifle (IS) Nose        22     22     22     --    2     20.00
  Ammo (Hvy Gauss) 20      ---                                           5.00
2 ER PPC (C)               Nose        15     15     15     --   30     12.00
1 LRM 15(C)+ArtIV          RW          12     12     12     --    5      4.50
1 LRM 15(C)+ArtIV          LW          12     12     12     --    5      4.50
  Ammo (LRM 15) 40         ---                                           5.00
2 ER Medium Laser(C)       Aft          7      7     --     --   10      2.00
1 C.A.S.E. Equipment (C)   Body                                           .00
8 Double Heat Sinks                                                      8.00
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTALS:                                                    Heat: 52     95.00
Tons Left:                                                                .00
Battle Value:      TBD
Total Cost:        TBD


This message was last edited by the GM at 19:57, Sun 27 Aug 2017.

The Defender line is not one that is readily available, and is more the product the research that went into Kariban's Omni Vehicle designs rather than their civilian products. The Defender project didn't begin until 3119, when an assassination attempt on Representative Lyall Stone almost killed the retired Major. It was only luck and sheer resilience that let him survive even as it cost him a natural arm. While the Republic claimed it was extreme radicals who had focused on Haddings due to the 12th Star Guards maintaining their full unit strengths, many within High Command, and Aegis for that matter, felt it might possibly be the act of the Republic itself.

Unable to protect the Representative with a full platoon of Mongooses as they wanted, not being able to bring the military grade weaponry to Terra in such numbers, nor could they simply have the him use his Battlemech as if it was a hovercar, the Guards turned to Aegis to see what could be done. Otherwise, they might be forced to pull their only real contact with the Republic Government off of Terra for good, a policy that might be a welcomed response but a poor solution.

Their first attempts just didn't provide the protection they felt was needed, as starting with a car and armoring it provided too much stress on the engines. Instead they took the Cherokee Scout platform and expanded on it, using an XL Fusion Engine to give it the speed it would need, while the Clan level Omega III Ferro-Fibrous armor gave it enough protection that nothing outside of a true combat vehicle, Battlemech, or squads of Battle Armor would put it down. Hidden Cleverly in its roof is an advanced Laser Anti-Missile system, while the car itself is equipped with an ECM unit as well as a White Noise Generator, keeping the conversations and locations of those in the car protected at all times.

While it took nearly a year, by the time Representative Stone was able to return to Terra, the Defender went along with him. Since then, only select customers have been allowed to buy one, including the Archon Melissa Steiner, and First Prince Harrison Davion. Paladin Victor Steiner-Davion was also gifted one by Kariban, in respect to the long ties the Guards had to the venerable statesman, and since Devlin Stone stepped down from Exarch, there has been more sales to the various Senators and officials within the Republic as well.




Kariban Defender Limousine

Mass: 10 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Motive Type: Hovercraft
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: All Eras (non-canon)
Tech Rating/Era Availability: X/X-X-X-A
Production Year: 3120
Cost: 860,000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 287

Power Plant: Kariban 70 Fusion XL Engine
Cruise Speed: 118.8 km/h
Flanking Speed: 183.6 km/h
Armor: Omega III Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    None
Manufacturer: Kariban Motors
    Primary Factory: Alci
Communications System: Magni 340
Targeting and Tracking System: Darkware XJ

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                       4 points                1.00
Engine:             XL Engine                     70                       1.50
    Cruise MP:  11
    Flank MP:   17
Heat Sinks:         (IS) Single Heat Sink        10                        0.00
Control Equipment:                                                         0.50
Lift Equipment:                                                            1.00
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  67                  3.50

                                                      Armor
                                                      Factor
                                               Front     22
                                          Left/Right   16/16
                                                Rear     13

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat     Spaces     Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) Laser Anti-Missile System               FR        5         1         1.00
ECM Suite                                    FR        0         1         1.00

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 3
11h        0       0       0       0      1     0   Structure:  0
Special Abilities: AMS, ECM, ENE




This message was last edited by the GM at 04:29, Sun 30 July 2017.

In 3042 the 12th Star Guards discovered a set of twenty Mk XIV Nighthawk Power Armor Systems. This find was tremendous, letting them develop Battle Armor long before the rest of the Inner Sphere had even worked on the concept, but there were other advantages. The Nighthawk was a simple set of Light Power Armor, and while it had advanced abilities made for its use as a black ops tool, at its very base it was simply an improved set of Infantry armor. One of the frist things Kariban would do would be to create a stripped down version of the Nighthawk, at times derisively called the Copyhawk armor that was intended to be marketed to mercenary units, private security firms, and even the great Houses. From that base, the intention was to use it as a platform for the true battle armor they would develop.

While the Clan Invasion destroyed that plan, the Lighthawk Power Armor was still developed and marketed in the wake of the Battle Armor revolution. While it had some traction in those early years, enough to advance it to a Mk III design, it wasn't until the end of the Jihad that Aegis saw it really take off. First used by the Everwatch, to make up for their lack of numbers with an advanced tool, the Mk III spread throughout the new Republic and beyond and constant civil strife continued to flare up in the wake of the WoB Jihad.

The Mk IV has taken it a step further, with it now being crammed with various sensor systems, a cutting torch for breeching a room, and even a shotgun microphone for surveillance missions, the Lighthawk is the ultimate in advanced law enforcement tools. Kariban has even added a special touch to the helmet, allowing for a quick deploy breaking mask and faceguard to slide back so that officers aren't too impersonal when dealing with civilians. Its AP mount often attached a machine gun, though they tend to only be loaded with rubber bullets, while the twin armored gloves allow them to use a sonic side arm or stun baton. Used extensively by the Everwatch in all of its postings, the Mk IV has spread throughout Republic Space as well.

Variants: Mk IV SRT

Used exclusively by the Everwatch's SRT units, this variant includes an attached battle claw for hard breeches, and a Firedrake Support Needler to provide heavy weapon cover for any dangerous situation. This model often has a micro grenade launcher attached to the AP mount loaded with tear gas.

Image Shown: A member of Everwatch on patrol in the shopping district of New Rome.

Type/Model:    Lighthawk Mk IV
Tech/Era:      Inner Sphere / 3067 / CBT Rules
Chassis Type:  Humanoid
Weight Class:  PA(L)/Exoskeleton (0 - 400 kg)
Rules:         Level 2, Standard design

Ground Speed:  32.4 km/h
Armor Type:    Standard

------------------------------------------------------------------
Type/Model:    Lighthawk Mark IV SRT
Equipment:                                          Slots    Mass
Chassis Type:  Kariban Humanoid PA(L)                 0        80
Motive System: Ground Movement (3 MP)                 0        50
Armor Type:    2 Points Standard                      0       100

Manipulators:
  Left Arm:    Armored Glove                          0         0
  Right Arm:   Armored Glove                          0         0

Weapons and Equipment                Loc     Shots  Slots    Mass
------------------------------------------------------------------
Anti-Personnel Weapon Mount          RA               1         5
 (Anti-Personnel Weapon Space)       RA               0         0
Cutting Torch                        RA               1         5
Heat Sensor                          LA               1        20
Improved Sensors                     Body             1        45
Laser Microphone                     Body             1         5
Searchlight                          Body             1         5
------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTALS:                                               6       315
Slots & Mass Left:                                    0        85

Calculated Factors:
Total Cost:     293,250 C-Bills, Including Trooper
                Training Costs of 150,000 C-bills
Battle Value:   6 (24 for 4)  Weapon Value: 2 (Ratio=.33)
Cost per BV:    23,875.0 (w/o Trooper Training costs)
Damage Factors: SRDmg = 0   MRDmg = 0   LRDmg = 0
Mechanized:     Travels on OmniMechs
Attacks:        Can perform Swarm and Leg attacks
BattleForce2:   Class: IB   MP: 3   Armor/Structure: 1 / 0
                Damage PB/M/L: -/-/-   Overheat: 0
                Point Value: 0    Specials: mec, car4

CBT:RPG Data:   Armor Value (M/B/E/X): 4/5/6/5    Coverage: Full
                IR: 0,  ECM: 0,  Camo: 0
                Melee AP: 0,  Target Size Modifier: 0
                Movement Modifiers:
                  Walking: +4,  Running: +8,  Sprinting: +12
                Attribute Modifiers:  STR: 0,  DEX: 0,  RFL: 0
                Equipment Rating:  E/E/E

This message was last edited by the GM at 04:30, Sun 30 July 2017.

Created for Everwatch in 3067, the KRM-SV was meant to supplement the JXD VTOL, as well as provide better ground support to the police force. While it is no match for a Battlemech, the Carrier was always meant for riot duty, with its Machine gun loaded with rubber bullets and tear gas SRM launcher. At this time, this vehicle was only built in small numbers, with a ratio of 2 per major community. However this changed during, and after the Jihad, as Everwatch had to expand its duties on world, but also the need for efficient police on all the worlds of the 12 Star Alliance during a time when Blakist cells were determined to undermine the order the Guards and their allies kept.

When the Jihad ended, and the Republic treaty limited and nearly crippling Aegis, the Police Carrier was one of the saving graces, as thousands were ordered within the first month it was announced available. It is now the most prolific Police Vehicle in the Republic, and was making headway into the Federated Suns, Lyran Commonwealth, Oriente Duchy and even the Clan occupation zones thanks to Clan Sea Fox.

While Kariban certain didn't design it with the intent of using it as a military vehicle, many planetary militias have turned it into a light tank, simply adjusting its ammunition loads to more destruction rounds.

Variant: Like most major Kariban Vehicles, the KRM-SV has a ICE powered version, though in this case it also has a Fusion Engine version made specifically at the request of Clan Sea Fox.


Kariban Police Carrier

Model: KRM-SV
Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Motive Type: Wheeled
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: All Eras (non-canon)
Tech Rating/Era Availability: D/C-D-D
Production Year: 3087
Cost: 314,227 C-Bills
Battle Value: 200

Power Plant: Kariban 100 Fuel Cell Engine
Cruise Speed: 64.8 km/h
Flanking Speed: 97.2 km/h
Armor: Omega I Standard Armor
Armament:
    1  SRM-2
    1  Machine Gun
    1  Infantry Bay (5.0 tons)
    1  Fuel Tank (1.0 tons)
Manufacturer: Kariban Motors
    Primary Factory: Alci
Communications System: Magni ENC-12
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware XJ

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      10 points                2.00
Engine:             Fuel-Cell Engine             100                       4.00
    Cruise MP:  6
    Flank MP:   9
Heat Sinks:         Single Heat Sink             1                         0.00
Control Equipment:                                                         1.00
Lift Equipment:                                                            0.00
Turret:                                                                    0.50
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV -  48                  3.00

                                                      Armor
                                                      Factor
                                               Front     12
                                          Left/Right    9/9
                                              Turret     10
                                                Rear     8

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat     Spaces     Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SRM-2                                        T         2         1         1.00
Machine Gun                                  T         0         1         0.50
Infantry Bay (5.0 tons)                      BD        0         1         5.00
Fuel Tank     (1.0 tons)                     BD        0         1         1.00
@SRM-2 (Tear Gas) (50)                       BD        -         0         1.00
@MG (200)                                    BD        -         0         1.00

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 2
6          1       1       0       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: EE


This message was last edited by the GM at 04:30, Sun 30 July 2017.

The Lancet has been a mainstay product of Kariban Motors since its first introduction in 3056 as a quick delivery craft for the company's Light Power Armor systems. While Kariban had exploded onto the military market thanks to being the first to develop Battle Armor, and its factories were expanding and turning out new designs for the forces of the Inner Sphere, there was still a severe lack in training and production. The Inner Sphere rushed to develop the training programs in order to build up their own Battle Armor forces, Kariban massed produced the Lighthawk design as a stopgap and training tool due to its low cost and ease of use. While many of the Inner Sphere's armed forces would simply repurpose existing transport craft, Kariban quickly developed a VTOL that used their patented fuel-cell motors specifically, marketing it in bulk for its low expense and being specifically designed with the Lighthawk system in mind.

While only moderately popular with the standard military forces of the Inner Sphere, it was a great success with the various mercenary units which could afford the cheaper Lighthawk in comparison to Battle Armor, and surprisingly Comstar, which had been developing their own Light Power Armor at the time. This made it a common sight on the battlefields of the Jihad, and even through that conflict it was used extensively by the 12 Star Alliance militia forces where it acted as the go to APC for the large numbers of Nighthawk and Lighthawk equipped troops. With each chopper able to transport a full fireteam of six armored troopers, the Lancet was also equipped to secure a landing zone against the average Infantryman of the time. While the 12th Star Guards themselves focused more on Battle Armor in their ranks, the Lancet was still an excellent delivery vehicle due to its inexpensive nature.

It was this proliferation within their ranks that gave the Lancet an extensive new role in 3063, a role that would give the Lancet a new market and lease on life after the Jihad. When Aeneas Karrde was initially tasked with creating the police force that would become the Everwatch in 3063, he was given limited resources to work with. The use of full Battle Armor and Battlemechs had already proven ineffective, if anything they had made the situation worse, and other military equipment was already being readied in case war threatened Haddings. After an impassioned argument, Jaina Moon would open up several of Kariban's caches of Lighthawk Power Armor, donating them and a dozen Lancets that were modified specifically to Karrde's specifications to the infant organization. This gave the young Everwatch quick mobility along with heavy sensor and surveillance equipment as Clan level sensor technology was integrated into the design, though at the cost of protection. With the entire Watch using the Light Power Armor, an entire team of six Watchmen could be transported to a hot zone and either repel from the Lancet, or simply have the VTOL land and unload. When Aegis began their large push of peacekeeping equipment after the Jihad, the Lancet was one of the big sellers right along with its accompanying Lighthawks, all modified to the same model that had a proven track record as a tool of law enforcement.

While Kariban still builds and sells the cheaper military variant to customers throughout the Inner Sphere, the JXD-SW4 is sold only to Everwatch, the Guards, or to planetary law enforcement agencies throughout the Republic. Equipped with 2.5 tons of standard armor, quiet fuel cell motor, an Active Probe, and special surveillance equipment that allows a unit to locate and listen to conversations at incredible distances, the Lancet is an incredibly effective tool in a law enforcement's agency's arsenal. While its Machine Gun is often loaded with rubber bullets and its SRM's with tear gas, all Lancet's on Haddings keep military grade ammunition in their holds, ready to be used with the flip of a switch. The 12th Star Guards will still often use the military model for quick transportation of important personnel, despite its original function being overtaken by the likes of the Sikorsky or Hamerkop VTOLs .

Variants: JXD-SW2

While its weaponry has been updated with the proliferation and development of Clan level technology, the JXD-SW2 is nearly identical to the original Lancet first developed by Kariban. While it is not efficient as a scouting vehicle, the JXD-SW2 is more robust than its civilian counterpart, with a pair of light machine guns replacing the heavier model that is in the SW4. Though it has the same transportation capacity as the SW4, there are several structural differences due to its capability to deploy jump pack equipped armor designs. Additionally, at nearly half the price of the JXD-SW4, the JXD-SW2 is extremely popular with planetary militias.

Image Shown: Everwatch JXD flying high above Custos.

Kariban Lancet JXD-SW4

Mass: 15 tons
Tech Base: Mixed
Motive Type: VTOL
Rules Level: Experimental Tech
Era: Dark Ages
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-D-A
Production Year: 3087
Cost: 627,000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 267

Power Plant: KM 55 Fuel Cell Engine
Cruise Speed: 108.0 km/h
Flanking Speed: 162.0 km/h
Armor: Omega I Standard Armor
Armament:
    1 Steele (CL) SRM-4
    1 Barnes (CL) Heavy Machine Gun
    1 Puma Active Probe
    1 Infantry Compartment (2.5 tons)
Manufacturer: Kariban Motors
    Primary Factory: Alci, Bristol
Communications System: Magni ENC-12
Targeting and Tracking System: Fireware OJ2

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      10 points                1.50
Engine:             Fuel-Cell Engine              55                       2.00
    Cruise MP:  10
    Flank MP:   15
Heat Sinks:         (IS) Single Heat Sink        1                         0.00
Control Equipment:                                                         1.00
Lift Equipment:                                                            1.50
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV -  40                  2.50

                                                      Armor
                                                      Factor
                                               Front     12
                                          Left/Right    9/9
                                                Rear     8
                                               Rotor     2

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat     Spaces     Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(CL) SRM-4                                   FR        3         1         1.00
(CL) Heavy Machine Gun                       FR        0         1         0.50
Active Probe                                 FR        0         1         1.00
Infantry Compartment (2.5 tons)              BD        0         1         2.50
@SRM-4 (Tear Gas) (25)                       BD        -         0         1.00
@HMG (1/2) (50)                              BD        -         0         0.50

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      1    Points: 3
10v        1       1       0       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: PRB, RCN, EE

This vehicle is subject to the following Design Quirks: Improved Sensors

This message was last edited by the GM at 16:59, Tue 03 Oct 2017.