OBT Forum

HOODED EAGLE

Mass:  45 tons
Production Year: 3035
Cost: 11,387,031 C-Bills
Chassis: Coriolis Class IVb BiFrame Endo-Steel
Power Plant: Skorpion Type II 360 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: Series-17 (when mounted)
Armor: Compound GS Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:  11.0 tons of pod space
Manufacturer: Roche QuadPlex Alpha (Roche)
Communications System: JNE Integrated
Targeting and Tracking System: TRTTS Mark II with Targeting Computer

Overview:
First introduced in 3035, the Hooded Eagle is the lightest of the new OmniMechs and BattleMechs fielded by Clan Goliath Scorpion. Based upon the venerable Ice Ferret OmniMech of Clan Wolf, the Hooded Eagle has a slightly heavier weapon payload and armor thickness, at the cost of some of the earlier design's fixed cooling capacity. Intended as a recon/skirmisher/striker, the Hooded Eagle is heavily optimized for that role . . . which could get a Warrior trying to using this OmniMech in another role in considerable trouble if he is not careful.

Capabilities:
Using Ice Ferret plans acquired from their ally Clan Wolf, Scorpion Scientists stripped down the OmniMech to its bare chassis. The high turn of speed of the design was a major reason that the Ice Ferret had been selected as the basis for the Hooded Eagle and the engineers retained the massive 360XL engine (locally produced on Roche as the Skorpion Type II).

Armor protection was slightly increased (to eight tons) and pod-space increased as well (to eleven tons); these improvements came through the elimination of two tons of redundant (from the Scorpion point-of-view) cooling systems.

Hooded Eagle

Mass: 45 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped Omnimech
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E
Production Year: 3035
Cost: 11,387,031 C-Bills
Battle Value: 770

Chassis: Coriolis Class IVb BiFrame Endo-Steel
Power Plant: Skorpion Type II 360 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: Series-17
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Compound GS Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    11.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Roche QuadPlex Alpha
    Primary Factory: Roche
Communications System: JNE Integrated
Targeting and Tracking System: TRTTS Mark II with Targeting Computer

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    75 points                2.50
    Internal Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             360                      16.50
    Walking MP: 8
    Running MP: 12
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         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 - 153                  8.00
    Armor Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     14           22       
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  6         
                                           L/R Torso     11           17       
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  5         
                                             L/R Arm     7            14       
                                             L/R Leg     11           22
There are two sub-variants of the Prime Configuration. Each (the Prime-1 and Prime-2) are armed with a right-arm mounted ER PPC and a left arm mounted ER Medium Laser, both tied into a two-ton Targeting Computer in the right torso. An eleventh double-strength heat sink has been installed in the left torso as well. The only difference between the two is the Prime-1 mounts an Active Probe in the head, while the Prime-2 instead features an ECM Suite.

Loadout Name: Prime-1                                        Cost: 12,496,009
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,015

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             11(22)                    1.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER PPC                                       RA        15        2         6.00
ER Medium Laser                              LA        5         1         1.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         2         2.00
Active Probe                                 HD        0         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 23

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 20
8          3       3       2       0      2     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: OMNI, PRB, RCN, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Loadout Name: Prime-2                                        Cost: 12,496,009
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,084

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             11(22)                    1.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER PPC                                       RA        15        2         6.00
ER Medium Laser                              LA        5         1         1.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         2         2.00
ECM Suite                                    HD        0         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 23

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 21
8          3       3       2       0      2     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: OMNI, ECM, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Configuration A is armed with two ER Large Lasers (right arm and left arm, both of which have fully functional lower arm and hand actuators) that are tied into a two-ton Targeting Computer mounted in the right torso. As with the Prime(s), an eleventh double-strength heat sink (in the left torso) has been fitted . . . but unlike the heat-neutral Prime(s), the Hooded Eagle A has a pronounced tendency to run slightly hot. A skilled Warrior should be able to easily compensate for the excess overheat, but it is something that the Warrior needs to watch closely and keep in mind during combat operations.

Loadout Name: A                                              Cost: 12,180,363
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 1,942

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             11(22)                    1.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Large Laser                               RA        12        1         4.00
ER Large Laser                               LA        12        1         4.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         2         2.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 23

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 19
8          3       3       3       0      2     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Configuration B includes eight Jump Jets (four each in the right and left torso) for maximum mobility on the battlefield. The 11th DHS from the earlier configurations has been retained (in the left torso as well) as has the right torso mounted Targeting Computer (but only a one-ton model in this case).  Armament consists of four ER Medium Lasers (right arm, left arm, right torso, and left torso) supported by a head-mounted Active Probe. An excellent recon unit, the Hooded Eagle B is agile and yet remains able to lay down a withering barrage of fire, despite a tendency to overheat.

Loadout Name: B                                              Cost: 13,423,738
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,129

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 8  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 4 LT, 4 RT                                         4.00
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             11(22)                    1.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Medium Laser                              RA        5         1         1.00
ER Medium Laser                              LA        5         1         1.00
ER Medium Laser                              RT        5         1         1.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         1         1.00
ER Medium Laser                              LT        5         1         1.00
Active Probe                                 HD        0         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 13

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 21
8j         3       3       0       0      2     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: OMNI, PRB, RCN, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Configuration C retains the jump jets of the B model, but removes the 11th DHS and the weaponry to instead mount an ER Large Laser as the sole weapon on the right arm (once more tied into a one-ton Targeting Computer in the right torso). An Active Probe in the head provides for the collection of battlefield
intelligence, while an ECM Suite in the left torso protects the OmniMech and his Starmates from hostile electronic warfare.

There is a single sub-variant of Configuration C that the Scorpions have designated Configuration C-TAG. This is identical to the C config except for the removal of the ECM Suite in order to install a TAG system in the left arm.  As the Scorpions seldom employ artillery, the C-TAG Configuration is only rarely encountered on the battlefield.  (In fact, as of the date this report was compiled, this configuration has been encountered only in the dedicated Scorpion Reserve Artillery Trinary formations and not within the main arms of the fighting Touman.)

Loadout Name: C                                              Cost: 13,557,863
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 1,654

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 8  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 4 LT, 4 RT                                         4.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Large Laser                               RA        12        1         4.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         1         1.00
ECM Suite                                    LT        0         1         1.00
Active Probe                                 HD        0         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 17

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 17
8j         2       2       2       0      2     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: OMNI, PRB, RCN, ECM, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Loadout Name: C-TAG                                          Cost: 13,285,988
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 1,568

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 8  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 4 LT, 4 RT                                         4.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Large Laser                               RA        12        1         4.00
TAG                                          LA        0         1         1.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         1         1.00
Active Probe                                 HD        0         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 17

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 16
8j         2       2       2       0      2     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: OMNI, PRB, RCN, TAG, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Finally, there is the Hooded Eagle D. Intended for close-combat operations, the D Configuration retains the right arm mounted ER Large Laser of the C-configurations, but removes the jump jets and electronics. Instead the OmniMech mounts six ER Small Lasers (two each in the left arm, right torso, and left torso) to support the long-ranged ER Large Laser, along with two additional DHS (for a total of twelve). A two-ton Targeting Computer in the right torso coordinates all laser fire and improves accuracy. Although  short-ranged, the Hooded Eagle D is able to inflict crippling damage on an opponent that wanders too close or allows the Scorpion Warrior to maneuver into point-blank range. It is a favorite OmniMech for Scorpion Warriors fighting Trials of Grievance or Possession or Position against other Scorpions.

Loadout Name: D                                              Cost: 11,951,081
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 1,796

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             12(24)                    2.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Large Laser                               RA        12        1         4.00
ER Small Laser                               LA        2         1         0.50
2 ER Small Lasers                            RT        4         2         1.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         2         2.00
2 ER Small Lasers                            LT        4         2         1.00
ER Small Laser                               HD        2         1         0.50
                                            Free Critical Slots: 16

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      5    Points: 18
8          5       5       2       0      2     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Deployment:
Clan Goliath Scorpion has managed to produce and deploy over three hundred Hooded Eagles in the past seventeen years. Although a medium-weight OmniMech, it is the now the lightest (and swiftest) 'Mech to be found within the Scorpion Touman. But the Scorpions are not the only users of the design. While Clan Wolf prefers their Ice Ferret and Clan Ghost Bear their Viper designs, several other Clans (including the Cloud Cobras, Diamond Sharks, and Star Adders) have expressed an interest in the new design. Several score of these OmniMechs have been traded or sold off to interested parties and rumor suggests that the Adders (amongst others) will soon be seeking the production rights for the design.

DESERT TIGER

Mass: 60 tons
Production Year: 3037
Cost: 15,740,000 C-Bills
Chassis: Coriolis Class VI BiFrame Endo-Steel
Power Plant: Skorpion Type II 360 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 64.8 km/h
Maximum Speed: 97.2 km/h
Jump Jets: Series-17 (when mounted)
Armor: Compound GS Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:  23.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Roche QuadPlex Alpha (Roche)
Communications System: JNE Integrated
Targeting and Tracking System: TRTTS Mark II with Targeting Computer

Overview:
The third new OmniMech introduced by Clan Goliath Scorpion to enter service was the 60-ton Desert Tiger. This OmniMech, in particular, attracted the attention of Khan Solheim during the early days of design, drafting, and development. Not because of its importance to the Touman (which was high) or because of the need to make as few errors as possible (which was critical), but rather because the Desert Tiger was based upon the SLDF Lancelot. The BattleMech that was the chosen war-machine of the first Clan Goliath Scorpion Khan: Cyrus Elam.

The Scientists, Technicians, and Laborers rose to the challenge and presented the first completed Desert Tiger to Khan Kirov and saKhan Nikolai Djerassi in 3035. It is said that Khan Kirov actually smiled as he examined the OmniMech in close detail . . . and that both the Clan's leaders were highly impressed with the final result.

Fast, well-armored, and capable of carrying a sizeable warload of weaponry and equipment, the Desert Tiger prototype had met all of their expectations . . . and exceeded them. This heavy-weight OmniMech would soon become very sought after amongst the Clans of Kerensky and despite valiant Scorpion attempts to stop it, soon enough the rights to produce this design were possessed by other Clans.

Capabilities:
Massing 60-tons, the Desert Tiger uses an endo-steel chassis and 10.5 tons of ferro-fibrous armor plating to reserve a full twenty-three tons for pod-space.  Combined with the Skorpion Type II 360XL engine that allowed for a walking speed of 64.8 kilometers per hour and a running speed of 97.2 kph, this was
rather remarkable.

Of course, detractors noted that it was virtually identical to the lighter (55-ton) Stormcrow, but Kirov and Djerassi pointed out that the frame itself was slightly tougher and the OmniMech more heavily armored. They did acknowledge, however, that the older Stormcrow was less expensive to acquire and maintain.  But, the Khans added, the Stormcrow was a Smoke Jaguar design not commonly found in the Toumans of Warden Clans. This new Desert Tiger, on the other hand, was a Warden design from concept to delivery.


Desert Tiger

Mass: 60 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped Omnimech
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E
Production Year: 3037
Cost: 15,740,000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 927

Chassis: Coriolis Class VI BiFrame Endo-Steel
Power Plant: Skorpion Type II 360 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 64.8 km/h
Maximum Speed: 97.2 km/h
Jump Jets: Series-17
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Compound GS Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    23.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Roche QuadPlex Alpha
    Primary Factory: Roche
Communications System: JNE Integrated
Targeting and Tracking System: TRTTS Mark II with Targeting Computer

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    99 points                3.00
    Internal Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             360                      16.50
    Walking MP: 6
    Running MP: 9
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         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 - 201                 10.50
    Armor Locations: 1 CT, 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     20           30       
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  10       
                                           L/R Torso     14           20       
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8         
                                             L/R Arm     10           20       
                                             L/R Leg     14           28     

The Prime mimics (somewhat) the original layout of the SLDF Lancelot . . . or perhaps the Awesome, depending on whether you ask a Clan Warrior or someone from the Inner Sphere. Three ER Large Lasers are mounted (right arm, left arm, and left torso) all tied into a three-ton Targeting Computer in the right torso. A total of eighteen double-strength heat sinks alleviate all but the heat generated by movement. Often described as 'brutally elegant' in its simplicity, the Desert Tiger Prime is a prime example of the type of 'Mech favored by Clan Goliath Scorpion.

Loadout Name: Prime                                          Cost: 17,096,000
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,322

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             18(36)                    8.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Large Laser                               RA        12        1         4.00
ER Large Laser                               LA        12        1         4.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         3         3.00
ER Large Laser                               LT        12        1         4.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 11

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 23
6          4       4       4       0      3     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Configuration A has been armed with a single ER PPC (right arm) and a massive twenty-tube LRM launcher (in the left arm) equipped with Artemis IV fire-control for its three tons of ammunition (left arm, for a total of 18 missile salvoes). An ER Medium Laser in the head is serves as the secondary weapon. A Small Pulse Laser (left torso) completes the armament of this configuration and provides a token anti-personnel capacity.  Both lasers and the ER PPC are tied into a two-ton Targeting Computer in the right torso. Fourteen DHS alleviates all but movement heat.

Loadout Name: A                                              Cost: 17,420,000
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,465

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             14(28)                    4.00
    CASE Locations: LA                                                     0.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER PPC                                       RA        15        2         6.00
LRM-20                                       LA        6         4         5.00
    Artemis IV FCS                           LA        -         1         1.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         2         2.00
Small Pulse Laser                            LT        2         1         1.00
ER Medium Laser                              HD        5         1         1.00
@LRM-20 (Artemis) (18)                       LA        -         3         3.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 11

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 25
6          5       5       4       0      3     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 2
Configuration B was intended for Air Defense . . . but is widely regarded within the Touman as being undergunned. It is not popular amongst the Scorpion Warriors, but it is reasonably effective against hostile aerospace fighters and OmniFighters . . . and thus the Clan's leadership ensures that it remains an active part of the Touman. The main anti-air gun is a LB-5X autocannon in the right arm with two tons of munitions (also in the right arm for 40 bursts; usually a mixture of both slug and cluster are loaded). The left arm carries an ER Large Laser (which matches the LB-5X in range quite nicely) and three ER Medium Lasers (head, right torso, and left torso) are fitted for closer-range combat. All five weapons are tied into a three-ton Targeting Computer in the right torso for maximum accuracy. Fourteen DHS can cope with all but the heat generated by movement during an Alpha Strike . . . which was deemed as 'acceptable'.

Loadout Name: B                                              Cost: 17,328,000
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,210

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             14(28)                    4.00
    CASE Locations: RA                                                     0.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LB 5-X AC                                    RA        1         4         7.00
ER Large Laser                               LA        12        1         4.00
ER Medium Laser                              RT        5         1         1.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         3         3.00
ER Medium Laser                              LT        5         1         1.00
ER Medium Laser                              HD        5         1         1.00
@LB 5-X (Cluster) (20)                       RA        -         1         1.00
@LB 5-X (Slug) (20)                          RA        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 12

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 22
6          4       4       2       0      3     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Configuration C is a highly mobile heavy-weight OmniMech. Six jump jets are mounted (three each in the right and left torso) for maximum mobility. Fifteen DHS alleviate some, but not all, of the heat generated by the Desert Tiger C when it uses its forward-facing firepower and mobility to the fullest.  Armament consists of two ER Large Lasers (right arm and left arm), supported by a pair of ER Medium Lasers (head and right torso).  The right torso mounted ER Medium Laser has been fixed in a rear-facing position; making the Desert Tiger C very unusual for a Clan OmniMech!

Loadout Name: C                                              Cost: 17,824,000
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,505

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 6  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT                                         6.00
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             15(30)                    5.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Large Laser                               RA        12        1         4.00
ER Large Laser                               LA        12        1         4.00
(R) ER Medium Laser                          RT        5         1         1.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         2         2.00
ER Medium Laser                              HD        5         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 11

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 25
6j         3       3       3       0      3     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
The Desert Tiger D is a variant of the Prime.  Weaponry consists of two ER PPCs (right arm and left arm), supported by a single ER Medium Laser (head).  All three guns are tied into a three-ton Targeting Computer located in the right torso.  Seventeen double-strength heat sinks are sufficient to negate the worst of the heat problems, but the design will overheat on an Alpha Strike, even though the excess overheat is low enough that any skilled warrior should be able to handle it with ease.

Loadout Name: D                                              Cost: 17,244,000
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,675

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             17(34)                    7.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 3 LT, 2 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER PPC                                       RA        15        2         6.00
ER PPC                                       LA        15        2         6.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         3         3.00
ER Medium Laser                              HD        5         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 11

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 27
6          5       5       4       0      3     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Beginning in 3042, a sixth configuration of the Desert Tiger was introduced. With the ascension of Nikolai Djerassi as Khan of the Clan, there was a shift in the operational doctrine of the Scorpion Touman. While the new OmniMechs managed to fill many of the roles previously held by standard BattleMechs, their expense had forced first Khan Solheim and then Khan Kirov to accept a lower overall average tonnage for the Clan. For example, in the new Scorpion Touman there was not one single assault-weight OmniMech fielded.

While this did allow the Scorpions to reduce costs to the point where they were able to reequip their existing Clusters (and even form four new Clusters to expand the Clan's fighting strength), it also forced the Clan to concentrate more on maneuver and precision firepower over heavy individual warloads and ponderous advancement. On the positive side, the introduction of the new OmniMechs provided the Clan with a relatively massive increase in the ability of its Clusters to outmaneuver their opponents in the field; perhaps not to the extent taken by Clan Ice Hellion, but the Scorpion renewal presented new opportunities for their tactical and strategic doctrine. It also made the Clan begin to consider adding a force multiplier that it had previously refused to employ: field artillery.

Although Khan Kirov refused to sanction such, Khan Djerassi was very much interested in the concept. After all, both the Star Adders and the Wolves routinely fielded Artillery Trinary . . . although these were often enough bid away during an actual Trial. Starting in 3042, Djerassi formed the first Scorpion artillery formation since Operation Klondike . . . and the newly configured Desert Tiger Es were assigned.

Outfitted with an Arrow IV Artillery Missile System (placed in the right arm/right torso along with four tons of munitions for a total of 20 fire missions), the Desert Tiger E quickly proved a fast-moving and capable artillery unit. Secondary armament consisted of an ER Large Laser (left arm) and an ER Medium Laser (head), with both weapons tied into a one-ton Targeting Computer installed in the left torso. An ECM Suite was installed in the left torso to provide added defense against hostile units. Although only the base 10 DHS were fitted, this was deemed sufficient as the Desert Eagle E has no business firing both the artillery and conventional weapons simultaneously.

Regarded as a punishment detail, assignment to the Reserve Artillery Trinarys (Khan Djerassi eventually built seven such formations) is not a post that most Warriors are happy to receive. However, in recent years (since the Invasion of the Inner Sphere, the Battle of Tukkayid, and the Wolf-Falcon Refusal War), a handful have seen just how effective (and necessary) artillery support can be and the post is slowly gaining some respect. Not much, but far more than the previous assignment of Warriors considered either solahma or rule-breakers.

Tactically, the Desert Tiger E is a paradigm shift for many opponents, for no one expected to see an Artillery Configuration on an OmniMech able to run at speeds of 97.2 kph . . . much less one with credible self-defense weapons and actual armor! Although able to carry only half the missile launchers of the 80-ton Naga used by Clans Star Adder and Wolf, the increase in speed and decrease in cost was deemed worth the loss of half the artillery tubes. Especially for a Clan that had previously not fielded any artillery units.

Loadout Name: E                                              Cost: 17,720,000
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,214
Rules Level: Advanced Rules

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    CASE Locations: RT                                                     0.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Large Laser                               LA        12        1         4.00
Arrow IV Missile                             RT/RA     10        4/8      12.00
ECM Suite                                    LT        0         1         1.00
Targeting Computer                           LT        -         1         1.00
ER Medium Laser                              HD        5         1         1.00
@Arrow IV (Cluster) (5)                      RT        -         1         1.00
@Arrow IV (Homing) (5)                       RT        -         1         1.00
@Arrow IV (Non-Home) (5)                     RT        -         1         1.00
@Arrow IV (FASCAM) (5)                       RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 13

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 22
6          4       2       1       0      3     0   Structure:  3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ARTAC, ECM, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Deployment:
By 3052, the Scorpions have managed to produce nearly six hundred Desert Tigers, almost five hundred of which were added to their own Touman (becoming the single most numerous OmniMech in Scorpion service). The remainder were either traded, sold, or captured in combat by other Clans.

In 3038, Clan Wolf surprised Khan Kirov by announcing a Trial of Possession for the design schematics and the right to produce the Desert Tiger . . . this was only the first of nearly a dozen Trials that occurred over the course of the next decade. Currently, the design is being produced not only by the Scorpions (who have scaled back production since there is no longer as much of a market), but by Clan Wolf, Clan Star Adder, Clan Cloud Cobra, Clan Diamond Shark, Clan Snow Raven, and Clan Ice Hellion.

The Scorpions did not lose to all of these opponents . . . but once the design left their hands, there were Trials between those who had not emerged victorious over the Scorpions and those who had acquired the schematics. This has not pleased the Scorpion leadership at all, as they had counted on sales to other Clans to cover aspects of their increased military budgets.

DUNE STALKER

Mass: 90 tons
Production Year: 3045
Cost: 25,984,875 C-Bills
Chassis: Coriolis Class IX BiFrame Standard
Power Plant: Skorpion Type II 360 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: Series-17 (when mounted)
Armor: Compound GS Ferro-Fibrous
Armament: 39.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Roche QuadPlex Alpha (Roche)
Communications System: JNE Integrated
Targeting and Tracking System: TRTTS Mark II with Targeting Computer

Overview:
Following the ascension of Nikolai Djerassi to the Khanship in 3040, the new Khan ordered a Touman-wide review to assess the new OmniMechs and formations created by Khans Solheim and Kirov. While for the most part, the Clan had seen a major improvement in logistics, maintenance, and operations, there were some notable problems. First and foremost was the overall lowering of the Touman's average tonnage . . . and the resulting decline in firepower and individual unit durability. Although this had been expected, and the Scientists and Warriors behind the newly deployed war-machines had warned of this very issue, for the most part the increased effectiveness and versatility of the four OmniMechs that now comprised the Touman were far more capable and effective (individually) than those that they had replaced. Still, the lack of a true assault-weight element to the Clan (which had previously fielded large numbers of assault-class warmachines!) boded ill for future encounters with Clans that favored such units.

Indeed, already the Scorpions had lost three Trials (one to the Coyotes, a second to the Smoke Jaguars, and a third to the Star Adders) where the lighter (albeit faster and more maneuverable) Scorpion OmniMechs just simply could not prevail against the raw firepower that their opponents possessed.

Khan Djerassi sought to change that. However, he did so by not changing (again) the Touman structure, or the revised Cluster table of organization and equipment. His plan had two parts, one of which could take almost immediately. The second would require more time.

First, the Khan ordered that a handful of Desert Tiger OmniMechs be configured as a Artillery Support Platform and that a Reserve Artillery Trinary (which would eventually turn into seven such formations) be created. This quick fix provided the Touman with a boost in firepower . . . but it was useless in the typical intra-Clan Trials where artillery was often bid away.

The second part was the design, development, and production of a true Assault-weight OmniMech. Christened the Dune Stalker, this 90-ton beast would be unveiled in 3045 after five years of development and testing.

Not wishing to adjust the Clan TO&E yet again, Khan Djerassi borrowed from the SLDF of old. Noting that the Star League Defense Forces had fielded companies, battalions, and even regiments comprised of the same exact make and model of BattleMech, he called for the establishment of the 13th Scorpion Shock Cluster . . . a new formation that would be equipped exclusively with the Dune Stalker as that OmniMech became available.

It was a decision that made other Clans sit up and take notice. Even the most traditional Clans who favored the use of Assaults (the Coyotes, Jaguars, and Adders amongst them) were uncertain whether the Scorpion decision was brilliant or delusional. However, after becoming active, it quickly became clear that the 13th Shock Cluster (or The Harbingers of Misfortune as the Scorpions named them; although some wags referred to them instead as The Bad Luck Brigade) was a powerhouse that few Clan opponents were prepared to handle in combat.

Seldom committed en masse, the 13th Shock nonetheless saw a variety of combat throughout the later years of the '40s and following decades . . . and whenever one of the five combat Trinary were committed to the field, the Scorpions prevailed.

Despite this, the sheer cost of these OmniMechs prevented Khan Djerassi from raising more than one Shock Cluster, limiting the number of Dune Stalkers within the Clan on active duty to a mere forty-seven. Assigned to some of the deadliest Warriors in the Scorpion Touman, along with veteran Elementals and fighter Pilots, the 13th Scorpion Shock Cluster is a force with which to be reckoned on any field of battle.

Capabilities:
The Dune Stalker masses some 90-tons in overall weight, using a 360XL engine that allows the OmniMech to walk at speeds of 43.2 kilometers per hour and run at 64.8 kph. Fourteen double-strength heat sinks were banked within the engine core to save valuable internal volume. Fourteen and one-half tons of Compound GS Ferro-fibrous armor provides near maximum protection for the chosen weight class . . . however, concern over the dwindling internal space led to the Scientists to recommend (and the Khan approve) that the OmniMech be built with standard internal structure materials rather than endo-steel composite (making the Dune Stalker the only OmniMech in the Touman that does not use endo-steel).

This left thirty-nine tons of pod-space available . . . more than the Gargoyle, Warhawk, Kingfisher, or Executioner, albeit without much of the fixed heat sinks or other equipment some of those OmniMechs also carried.

The overall body design was based on the ancient Stalker BattleMech used by the Inner Sphere and SLDF . . . although subtle changes make the chassis appear to be leaner and faster (which it is, actually).

Dune Stalker

Mass: 90 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped Omnimech
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E
Production Year: 3045
Cost: 25,984,875 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,175

Chassis: Coriolis Class IX BiFrame Standard
Power Plant: Skorpion Type II 360 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Compound GS Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    39.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Roche QuadPlex Alpha
    Primary Factory: Roche
Communications System: JNE Integrated
Targeting and Tracking System: TRTTS Mark II with Targeting Computer

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                     138 points                9.00
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             360                      16.50
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             14(28)                    4.00
Gyro:               Standard                                               4.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 278                 14.50
    Armor Locations: 1 HD, 1 LT, 1 RT, 2 LL, 2 RL

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     29           45       
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  12       
                                           L/R Torso     19           28       
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  10       
                                             L/R Arm     15           30       
                                             L/R Leg     19           38     

The Dune Stalker Prime is virtually a Clan copy of the original STK-3F Stalker in terms of classes of weaponry. Two ER Large Lasers are the main ranged weapons (fitted one each to the right and left torsos), while four ER Medium Lasers support these guns in close (two each in the right arm and left arm). Twin LRM-10 launchers with Artemis IV fire-control systems were installed next (one each in the right and left arm, each with two tons of ammunition for 24 dual salvoes), while a pair of Streak SRM-6 launchers were placed within the torsos (one each in the right and left), fed by a single ton of ammunition in the right torso (15 total salvoes; which was viewed as sufficient given the "no-lock, no-fire" nature of the Streak launchers).

A three-ton Targeting Computer in the right torso links all six lasers together for maximum accuracy at all ranges, while a total of twenty double-strength heat sinks . . . well, they try to cope with the amount of heat this design can produce but simply cannot deal with the full excess overheat production! Warriors must be cautious and refrain from simply holding down the big red button labeled 'Alpha Strike' . . . attempting to use that button will often result in the Warrior detonating his own ammunition stores and shutting down his OmniMech. Which is normally followed by a quick transfer to a solahma formation.

At range, the Dune Stalker Prime is able to use both ER Large Lasers and both LRM launchers, generating only movement heat as excess. In close, the Warrior can use all four ER Medium Lasers, both LRM launchers, both Streak launchers (if they lock), and run without generating excess overheat. Optionally, the Warrior can use one ER Large, all four ER Mediums, and both Streak launchers . . . substituting the LRM launchers if the Streaks fail to lock. This firing pattern results in generating only movement heat as excess.

Still, the Dune Stalker Prime is not an OmniMech for a novice Warrior by any stretch of the imagination . . . and the Scorpions have made certain to only place exceptional (and experienced) Warriors within their cockpits.

Loadout Name: Prime                                          Cost: 29,727,875
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,832

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             20(40)                    6.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 3 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 1 RA
    CASE Locations: RT, LA, RA                                             0.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 ER Medium Lasers                           RA        10        2         2.00
LRM-10                                       RA        4         1         2.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           RA        -         1         1.00
2 ER Medium Lasers                           LA        10        2         2.00
LRM-10                                       LA        4         1         2.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           LA        -         1         1.00
ER Large Laser                               RT        12        1         4.00
Streak SRM-6                                 RT        4         2         3.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         3         3.00
ER Large Laser                               LT        12        1         4.00
Streak SRM-6                                 LT        4         2         3.00
@LRM-10 (Artemis) (24)                       RA        -         2         2.00
@LRM-10 (Artemis) (24)                       LA        -         2         2.00
@Streak SRM-6 (15)                           RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 6

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 28
4          7       7       3       0      4     3   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1
The Dune Stalker A is designed as a support unit to deal with hostile vehicles and aerospace fighters. Although not as popular among Scorpion Warriors as the Prime or B (see below), the A Configuration is a vital one to the 13th Shock Cluster. Armament consists of two ER PPCs (right torso and left torso), two LB-5X autocannons (right arm and left arm; each with two tons of ammunition for 40 tandem bursts; typically the Dune Stalker A carries a mixture of slug and cluster for maximum flexibility), and a center torso mounted ER Medium Laser. All five guns are tied into a six-ton Targeting Computer in the right torso, while sixteen DHS alleviates the worst of the excess overheat production. Leaving out the ER Medium Laser, the Dune Stalker A is heat neutral on a run . . . and any veteran Warrior should be able to easily balance that heat load.

Loadout Name: A                                              Cost: 29,195,875
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,729

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             16(32)                    2.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LT
    CASE Locations: LA, RA                                                 0.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LB 5-X AC                                    RA        1         4         7.00
LB 5-X AC                                    LA        1         4         7.00
ER PPC                                       RT        15        2         6.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         6         6.00
ER PPC                                       LT        15        2         6.00
ER Medium Laser                              CT        5         1         1.00
@LB 5-X (Cluster) (20)                       RA        -         1         1.00
@LB 5-X (Slug) (20)                          RA        -         1         1.00
@LB 5-X (Cluster) (20)                       LA        -         1         1.00
@LB 5-X (Slug) (20)                          LA        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 13

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 27
4          5       5       4       0      4     0   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, FLK 1/1/1
Of course, even the Scorpions contain within their ranks Warriors who feel they simply must melt their targets . . . and themselves. For those Warriors, the Dune Stalker B was designed. All ammunition based weaponry has been eliminated, removing the possibility of any internal ammo explosions . . . and making pressing that 'Alpha Strike' button far more survivable. Configuration A carries four ER Large Lasers (two each in the right and left arms), supported by eight ER Medium Lasers (mounted four each in the right and left torsos)! These are the only weapons carried, but a five-ton Targeting Computer (right torso) ensures that most shots will land on their target. Even with 24 double-strength heat sinks, the Dune Stalker B can badly overheat . . . although it generates only movement heat at range using the ER Large Lasers and runs fairly cool with just the ER Mediums in close. However, when a Warrior must simply, absolutely, and positively make a hostile OmniMech or BattleMech 'go away', this OmniMech can lay down a blistering array of fire . . . at the expense of shutting down immediately afterwards.

Loadout Name: B                                              Cost: 29,666,125
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 3,244

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             24(48)                   10.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 CT, 2 LT, 4 LA, 3 RA
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 ER Large Lasers                            RA        24        2         8.00
2 ER Large Lasers                            LA        24        2         8.00
4 ER Medium Lasers                           RT        20        4         4.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         5         5.00
4 ER Medium Lasers                           LT        20        4         4.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 3

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 32
4          6       6       3       0      4     2   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
The final configuration is the Dune Stalker C. Fitted with four jump jets to improve mobility (two each right torso and left torso), this model is based on the Prime to a large degree. To fit the jump jets, the design team had to remove four double-strength heat sinks (leaving sixteen DHS) and one ER Large Laser (the second was moved to the center torso). An ECM Suite was added to the center torso as well, using the tonnage gained from the right torso Targeting Computer shrinking from a three-ton unit to a two-ton unit. Like the Prime, the Dune Stalker C requires a Warrior who thinks rather than rushes in where angels fear to tread. However, when using the weapons properly within their natural engagement brackets, this OmniMech has a good heat curve that rewards tactical thinking.

Loadout Name: C                                              Cost: 30,331,125
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E                         BV2: 2,963

Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    Jumping MP: 4  (Standard)
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT                                         8.00
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             16(32)                    2.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT
    CASE Locations: RT, LA, RA                                             0.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA

Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 ER Medium Lasers                           RA        10        2         2.00
LRM-10                                       RA        4         1         2.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           RA        -         1         1.00
2 ER Medium Lasers                           LA        10        2         2.00
LRM-10                                       LA        4         1         2.50
    Artemis IV FCS                           LA        -         1         1.00
Streak SRM-6                                 RT        4         2         3.00
Targeting Computer                           RT        -         2         2.00
Streak SRM-6                                 LT        4         2         3.00
ER Large Laser                               CT        12        1         4.00
ECM Suite                                    CT        0         1         1.00
@LRM-10 (Artemis) (24)                       RA        -         2         2.00
@LRM-10 (Artemis) (24)                       LA        -         2         2.00
@Streak SRM-6 (15)                           RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 11

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      9    Points: 30
4j         6       6       2       0      4     3   Structure:  5
Special Abilities: OMNI, ECM, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1
Deployment:
Currently, the Dune Stalker is fielded only by Clan Goliath Scorpion . . . and that Clan possesses no more than fifty units!  Negotiations are underway with the Khans of Clan Star Adder to produce an additional twenty units for the Adder Touman, and both the Coyotes and the Wolves have shown some interest as well.  However, no Trials of Possession for the design have yet been declared.

I like them.

And I DEMAND a copy of your Handbook.  I need a new fan project to read.

You know, the Scorpions are one of the Clans that have a historical understanding of vehicle use.  Are there any coming?

building logistically sound armies is one thing... writing excellent stories is something else... get back on that... stat!

Given the renewed importance of these designs I wanted to go over them again with a fine tooth comb.

The Hooded Eagle essentially kicks off the Scorpion Expanse, if I may, and it is more of an evolutionary design rather than a revolutionary design. I could easily see a great Mechwarrior with design inclination created by masterarminas who pilots a Wolf Hunter/Ice Ferret and thinks up this third optimization called the Hooded Eagle. Especially with some help from a scientist and/or technician who aids in the process which essentially takes out the two dreaded fixed heat sinks, adds a ton of ferro-fibrous armor for maximum protection, while increasing pod space to 11 tons. Additionally, I can see a merchant perhaps selling the upgrade to all interested Clans especially if it is a kit to simply upgrade an existing design. This works just about every caste into this creation story but could be a solid foundation for the rest.

Now looking back at my Fenris notes from a recent design contest it brings up something very interesting even if it is circa 3048 (see the RAT data below). The Shadow Cat comes out in 3003 as part of an effort to replace the Ice Ferret. So there is a big reason to improve upon the Ice Ferret (which is itself the second version of the Wolf Hunter) and a reason that it may have been devalued by some giving the resource poor Scorpions greater access then they may have originally had.

Operation Revival: Placement Trials (RATs)
   Blood Spirit = 0% (0) uses neither
   Burrock = 6% (11) uses both, Shadow Cat – 9
   Cloud Cobra = 0% (0) only the Shadow Cat – 2, 4
   Coyote = 8% (10) uses both, Shadow Cat – 12
   Diamond Shark = 11% (4, 12) uses both, Shadow Cat – 5, 7, 9, 11
   Fire Mandrill = 0% (0) only the Shadow Cat – 4, 9, 12
   Ghost Bear = 6% (11) no Shadow Cat
   Goliath Scorpion = 6% (3) no Shadow Cat
   Hell’s Horses = 11% (2, 4) no Shadow Cat
   Ice Hellion = 19% (3, 9, 12) uses both, Shadow Cat – 6, 8
   Jade Falcon = 19% (4, 10) uses both, Shadow Cat – 2
   Nova Cat = 19% (4, 10) uses both, Shadow Cat – 5, 7, 9
   Smoke Jaguar = 8% (10) uses both, Shadow Cat – 2, 12
   Snow Raven = 14% (4, 11) uses both, Shadow Cat – 9
   Star Adder = 0% (0) only the Shadow Cat – 6, 9
   Steel Viper = 16% (8, 12) uses both, Shadow Cat – 2, 3
   Wolf = 44% (6, 7, no Shadow Cat

Now even if the creation story of the Hooded Eagle doesn't get crazy like it did for the Quicksilver version of the Sand Devil this creation tale could well entail either the Wolves or the Ice Hellions. Regardless I see it as a nice way to start a building program that gets the Clan production access to the 360XL Engine and the rest of the design is pretty darn common. I give it a big thumbs up and a nice way to start off this endeavor. Tomorrow I will go over the Sand Devil.