OBT Forum
General BattleTech => General Discussion => MechFactory => Topic started by: Takiro on December 05, 2021, 09:36:32 PM
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It was July 11, 2019 when we kicked off the InnerSphere Optimization Project with the Locust and now almost two and a half years later we will conclude most appropriately with the Atlas. This fifth-fifth design challenge will feature that iconic one-hundred-ton war machine which can’t be overlooked. Frequently utilized in my home campaign this BattleMech is a staple for special players and big bad guys as well. Just about every faction uses it but only three current factories produce the Atlas at this time. Defiance Industries of Hesperus II (Federated Commonwealth), Yori 'Mech Works of Al Na'ir (Draconis Combine), Independence Weaponry of Quentin (formerly Federated Suns, Draconis Combine after the War of 3039). The House Marik Sourcebook (page 115) indicates that Carver V (perhaps Martinson Armaments) was home to an Atlas factory during the 2900s that has presumably been destroyed by 3025. So, I'd say the Draconis Combine has the most Atlases in its service with the Federated Commonwealth pulling in number two. The ComGuards have a few presumably Star League era relics but they might be on the same level as the Free Worlds League and the Capellan Confederation. Don’t forget mercenaries and of course the Periphery as a very few Atlases must be running around out there. Thankfully we have a massive CBT Mech of the Week article and sarna’s wiki page for inspiration this time around. I’m really looking forward to seeing what you guys can come up with as the most optimal Atlas for the Salient Horizon universe, good luck!
’Mech of the Week: AS*-*-Atlas
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-articles/mech-of-the-week-as*-*-atlas/
Atlas – BattleTechWiki
https://www.sarna.net/wiki/Atlas_(BattleMech)
Design Criteria
Design: Atlas Assault BattleMech
Era: 3052, just following the Truce of Tukayyid
Tech: InnerSphere Level 2
Mass: 100 tons
Tech Base
The tech base for this enterprise will be InnerSphere Level 2, also known as Star League lostech, circa 3053. Remember some Level 1 standards which Bradshaw and myself think still have value like Large Lasers and PPCs which feature the same damage factor as their higher tech brethren with less range and perhaps most significantly less heat. Here is a list for your design reference. Let me know if there is anything I missed!
Star League LosTech
Anti-Missile System
Arrow IV Artillery Missile System
Extended Range Large Laser (ER Large Laser)
Extended Range Particle Projection Cannon (ER PPC)
Gauss Rifle
Ultra Autocannon/5
LB 10-X Autocannon
One-Shot Missile Packs
Pulse Lasers (Small, Medium, & Large)
Streak SRM-2
Swarm LRMs
Thunder LRMs
Artemis IV FCS
Beagle Active Probe
Guardian ECM Suite
Myomer Accelerator Signal Circuitry (MASC)
Narc Missile Beacon
TAG
Cellular Ammunition Storage Equipment (CASE)
Double Heat Sinks
Endo Steel Internal Structure
Ferro-Fibrous Armor
Extra Light (XL) Engine
InnerSphere Low Tech
Blazer Cannon (or Binary Laser)
Recon Camera
Remote Sensor Dispenser
New Innovations
Triple Strength Myomer
Hatchet
C3 Computer
Design Traits of this Setting
Both the Federated Commonwealth and ComStar seem to have gone in the other direction with LRM batteries preferring larger LRM-15s and 20s linked to Artemis IV FCS to enhance accuracy. Facing the technologically superior Clan invaders have caused them to spend vast sums of resources on the finest technology available usually translating into high priced BattleMechs that few other factions can afford.
This is somewhat true for the Draconis Combine which has lost a significant portion of their industrial capacity to the Clans. This has been forced Kurita designers to innovate in new and different ways regardless of traditional warrior ethos which pervades the realm. Many Draconis optimizations have included the C3 System which is accelerated from the canon setting which saw their deployment lag.
The Free Worlds League in particular have embraced massed LRM-5s over the larger batteries to provide closer mass equivalents to Clan LRMs. Thanks to a corresponding increase in NARC units these ‘fire teams’ have become quite effective in the Marik Civil War. Also, the Blazer has made an appearance in the shattered FWLM searching for an advantage over their former brethren.
The Capellan Confederation typically fields cost effective designs at this time thanks to their resource strapped situation. While justifications for high end increases can be made like the Outreach Conference, Wrath of Blake technical aid, spoils of war from Isis forces, and good old Capellan espionage these should be minimized. My advice would be Periphery plus for these designs as the Confederation is under strain supporting Isis right now as it is. Growing stealth tech reflected in the Raven would be appropriate in many cases as sophisticated electronic lostech devices like the Guardian ECM Suite would be a priority for their recon designs. There is also a fire support role which is a hallmark of Liao tactical doctrine. The discovery of Thunder LRMs to deploy minefields and use of Arrow IV Artillery on the Catapult are themes which could be amplified here.
Regional factions like the Draconis March and the Periphery have seen the introduction of some ‘simple’ lostech items like Double Heat Sinks, Ferro-Fibrous, Streak SRM-2s, and Pulse Lasers. Extra-Light (XL) Engines remain too expensive and have drawbacks which make their deployment unlikely here. Advanced orbital facilities needed for EndoSteel manufacturing also remain out of reach at this point. They are not beyond using PPCs and Large Lasers either which they view as more efficient than their ER successors.
Please do your research (think Objective Raids) for available components as this will be another factor in rapid production. I love fluff and your winning designs will be featured in my BattleTech Salient Horizon alternate setting. I'd like to go beyond the refits bought to you by Technical Readout 3050 and delve into extensive redesigns of your BattleTech favorites. Sharpen up your favorite war machines perhaps drawing on past or current variants while remembering the spirit or role of these Mechs. Don't forget to justify the expense of your project and multiple winners are possible. Figure that all entries have to be completed and posted on these forums by Friday December 17th 2021 by 11:59 PM which should give you all a full two weeks for this contest, good luck!!
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AS7-GLL ATLAS
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Defiance Foundation Type C EndoSteel
Power Plant: Vlar 300
Cruising Speed: 32 kph
Maximum Speed: 54 kph
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: None
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy
Armament:
2 Poland Main Model A Gauss Rifles
3 Defiance B3L Large Lasers
Manufacturer: Defiance Industries
Primary Factory: Hesperus II
Communications System: Angst Discom
Targeting and Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
OVERVIEW
Defiance was determined to engineer a new Atlas capable of longer-ranged engagements particularly against the Clan invaders. To that end they commissioned several concepts at the height of the invasion to enhance its effectiveness. A few prototypes were completed following the titanic battle of Tukayyid which the company thought best to test in the arenas of Solaris VII. Doing so would allow them to recoup some of their initial investment while building their public standing around the InnerSphere. Ultimately it was this model, the AS7-GLL, that emerged triumphant in the special Atlas Off Tournament cementing its place as Defiance's new premier BattleMech.
CAPABILITIES
Constructed around the newly fabricated Defiance Foundation Type C EndoSteel chassis that was made available as more orbital foundries came online around Hesperus II. For weaponry this Atlas features twin Poland Main Model A Gauss Rifles mounted in the side torsos of this colossal war machine. Producing devastating hits on opponents at up to six hundred and sixty meters away with only minimal waste heat these huge cannons essentially match their Clan counterparts. The only drawback to these massive guns is the possibility of capacitor explosions if struck by battle damage. Unfortunately, designers were unable to address this issue with the inclusion of CASEs because they literally ran out of room during construction. While engineers urge caution and discount the possibility of said explosion simulations show the Atlas can indeed survive such an event and continue to operate effectively. The rugged nature of the Vlar 300 Fusion Engine combined with the Mech’s layout are specifically meant to endure such punishment. Indeed, the three Defiance B3L Large Lasers first used on the Avenger Dropship were chosen because of their size, power, and heat efficiency. Designers wanted to retain not only the hand actuators for physical combat also fit one the center torso for maximum fortitude. Thanks to nineteen tons of Durallex Special Heavy armor now arrayed in optimal fashion the Mech can sustain massive amounts of damage before being defeated. Essentially there is no easy way to defeat this Atlas even for the Clans which is exactly what Defiance intended. Finally, twelve Double Heat Sinks all fitted within the Engine dissipate most of running Alpha Strike producing only a slight overheating that shows no ill effects. Thereafter Mechwarriors are advised to alternate the firing of a Large Laser for maximum combat efficiency. For close quarters combat this BattleMech is still very capable of engaging in physical combat which will wreck most opponents quickly. Considered a bargain at just over ten million C-bills this model certainly will get a bang for your buck. With costs that are only five hundred thousand more than the old AS7-D but less than half the price of the lostech AS7-K this Mech is just about the best money can buy.
DEPLOYMENT
After first appearing victorious on Solaris production of this new Atlas has been prioritized by Defiance Industries. Serving as the powerful anchor in any military force these new models have begun appearing in AFFC and FedCom affiliated commands along the Clan border. Refit kits have also been ordered for existing models but the extensive work and massive materials needed to accomplish such a monumental task will keep those upgrades in short supply for a while. A single kit weighs more than a Medium BattleMech and requires a dedicated Mech Bay in order to consider. The allies of the Federated Commonwealth, particularly the ComGuards and the Draconis Combine, have already expressed interest in obtaining copies of this new model as well.
Type: Atlas
Technology Base: InnerSphere Level 2
Tonnage: 100 tons
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: EndoSteel 5
Engine: 300 19
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: 12 (24) 2
Gyro: 3
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 304 19
Internal Structure Armor Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 46 / 15
R/L Torso 21 32 / 10
R/L Arm 17 34
R/L Leg 21 41
Weapons and Ammo: Location Criticals Mass
Large Laser Right Arm 2 5
Large Laser Left Arm 2 5
Gauss Rifle Right Torso 7 15
Ammo (Gauss) 16 Right Torso 2 2
Gauss Rifle Left Torso 7 15
Ammo (Gauss) 16 Left Torso 2 2
Large Laser Center Torso 2 5
Cost = 10,136,000 C-bills
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AS7-JAC ATLAS
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X
Power Plant: Vlar 300
Cruising Speed: 32 kph
Maximum Speed: 54 kph
Jump Jets: Zion Heavy Lifters
Jump Capacity: 90 meters
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy with CASE
Armament:
1 Defiance ‘Mech Hunter Autocannon/20
4 Holly-5 Long Range Missile Launchers
3 Defiance B3M Medium Lasers
1 TharHes Maxi SRM 6
1 Magna Small Laser
Manufacturer: Golem Industries
Primary Factory: Zion (upgrades only)
Communications System: Angst Discom
Targeting and Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
OVERVIEW
The Free Worlds League only briefly controlled a Liao production facility on Carver V during the Third Succession War which manufactured the Atlas. For this reason, it is the Successor State least likely to field these extremely formidable war machines. This fact did not preclude every Marik defense contractor from researching variants utilizing lostech which would improve its performance. One such proposed upgrade developed by Golem Industries sought to add superior mobility to the Atlas by adding jump jets to its hundred-ton design. Dismissed by some as ‘a bit cheesy’ or ‘downright silly’ such enhancements became increasingly attractive to those seeking to maintain the viability of ‘Mech based Autocannon/20s on the modern battlefield. This short ranged but extremely powerful weapon system had been a mainstay of the Atlas almost since its creation but in a world increasing dominated by longer ranged weaponry was in real danger of being replaced altogether by the Gauss Rifle. Jumping held the potential to delivering this massive gun’s might wrath once more in broken terrain favoring tight quarter combat. Whether or not this adaptation would have seen wide spread implementation is an open question if not for the outbreak of the Third Marik Civil War.
CAPABILITIES
This new Atlas codenamed the AS7-JAC, for its Jumping Autocannon/20, is very similar to the venerable AS7-D. Designed around the battle tested Foundation Type 10X chassis it uses the same compact Vlar 300 Fusion Engine to power its operations while protected by nineteen tons of Durallex Special Heavy Armor. Some equipment is visibly rearranged with the TharHes Maxi SRM 6 switching side toros for example. Also, all the ammunition stored with the Atlas has been moved to the Left Torso entirely despite some concerns over feed issues. In typical Marik fashion the LRM-20 has been replaced by four Holly LRM-5s saving valuable tons for additional ammo. These batteries are now capable of eighteen rounds of sustained fire while both the SRM and Autocannon have fifteen rounds available. One rear facing Medium Laser was replaced by a head mounted Magna Small Laser to make room for other equipment as well. Heat Sinks were reduced from twenty standard models to fourteen lostech Double strength models. While a dozen of these bulky ‘freezers’ fit within the Vlar Power Plant one each had to be placed in each arm in order to complete the refit. This upgraded heat dissipation allows the Atlas to basically engage in Jumping Alpha Strikes if it so wishes with little possibility of overheating. The six tons saved by upgrading the BattleMech’s cooling system went towards mounting three newly engineered Zion Heavy Lifters. Placed in the legs and center torso these jump jets enable the massive Atlas to close with its shorter-ranged arsenal which still includes the Defiance ‘Mech Hunter Autocannon/20. Even more truly frightening maybe the possibility that this gargantuan can engage in ‘death from above’ maneuvers. Marketeers have been quick to play this new ability up by coming up with this sales tag line ‘dropping the weight of the world on your opponent’s shoulders.’
DEPLOYMENT
This relatively ‘easy’ lostech refit spread quickly throughout the Free Worlds League during the Third Marik Civil War eventually making its way to the Capellan Confederation. While each of these Houses possesses the smallest Atlas fleet in the InnerSphere its impact can still be felt. Impressed by its improved capabilities certain mercenaries and regional powers in the Federated Commonwealth quickly purchased refit kits. Thankfully sales were not negatively affected by its poor performance in the highly publicized Atlas Off Tournament on Solaris. Many indicate the relative ease of the upgrade and traditional Mechwarriors fondness of existing equipment both play into its popularity.
Type: AS7-JAC Atlas
Technology Base: InnerSphere Level 2
Tonnage: 100 tons
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: 10
Engine: 300 19
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 3
Heat Sinks: 14 (28) 4
Gyro: 3
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 304 19
Internal Structure Armor Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 47 / 14
R/L Torso 21 32 / 10
R/L Arm 17 34
R/L Leg 21 41
Weapons and Ammo: Location Criticals Mass
Autocannon/20 Right Torso 10 14
Ammo (AC) 15 Left Torso 3 3
CASE Left Torso 1 .5
SRM-6 Right Torso 2 3
Ammo (SRM) 15 Left Torso 1 1
4 LRM-5s Left Torso 4 8
Ammo (LRM) 72 Left Torso 3 3
Medium Laser Right Arm 1 1
Medium Laser Left Arm 1 1
Medium Laser Center Torso (R) 1 1
Small Laser Head 1 1
Jump Jet Right Leg 1 2
Jump Jet Left Leg 1 2
Jump Jet Center Torso 1 2
Cost = 9,976,500 C-bills
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AS7-AXE ATLAS
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X
Power Plant: Vlar 300
Cruising Speed: 32 kph
Maximum Speed: 54 kph
Jump Jets: HildCo Model 12
Jump Capacity: 90 meters
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy with CASE
Armament:
1 Defiance ‘Mech Hunter Autocannon/20
5 Defiance B3M Medium Lasers
2 TharHes Maxi SRM 6s
1 Hatchet
Manufacturer: Defiance Industries
Primary Factory: Hesperus II
Communications System: Angst Discom with Guardian ECM Suite
Targeting and Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
OVERVIEW
One of four prototypes commissioned by Defiance Industries which is rumored to be a precursor to some new experimental design yet to be produced. Rather than an attempt to equal the superior range of Clan technology this concept design was meant to be a fearsome short-range brutalizer. Able to close with enemies, preferably in favorable terrain, it could deliver overwhelming destruction before they can effectively respond.
CAPABILITIES
With an effective weapons range of only two hundred and seventy meters this Atlas has to close as rapidly as possible. It is aided in this by a Triple Strength Myomer and three HildCo Model 12 Jump Jets which increases speed and mobility respectively. Nineteen tons of Durallex Special Heavy armor with CASE produces a near maximum protection rating for this one-hundred-tonner which is also supplemented by a Guardian ECM Suite. Disabling enemy electronics is another benefit for this massive war machine which will obliterate opposition with its Defiance ‘Mech Hunter Autocannon/20, five Defiance B3M Medium Lasers, and two TharHes Maxi SRM 6s. Survivors can look forward to a finally devastating cleaving from the seven-ton Hatchet welded in the left arm that should finish off almost any battlefield threat rapidly.
DEPLOYMENT
Despite its relatively poor performance during the so-called Atlas Off on Solaris VII many orders for this design have been placed. Wealth Federated Commonwealth nobles or their champions have become enamored with this BattleMech’s raw potential and are convinced they can win with it. Despite limited production refits of existing models could generate a solid number of these Atlases serving in the InnerSphere.
Type: Atlas
Technology Base: InnerSphere Level 2
Tonnage: 100 tons
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: 10
Engine: 300 19
Walking MP: 3 (4)
Running MP: 5 (6)
Jumping MP: 3
Heat Sinks: 12 (24) 2
Gyro: 3
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 304 19
Internal Structure Armor Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 46 / 15
R/L Torso 21 32 / 10
R/L Arm 17 34
R/L Leg 21 41
Weapons and Ammo: Location Criticals Mass
Hatchet Right Arm 7 7
4 Medium Lasers Left Arm 4 4
Autocannon/20 Right Torso 10 14
Guardian ECM Suite Right Torso 2 1.5
Ammo (AC) 10 Left Torso 2 2
CASE Left Torso 1 .5
2 SRM-6s Left Torso 4 6
Ammo (SRM) 30 Left Torso 2 2
Medium Laser Center Torso 1 1
Triple Strength Myomer LA/RA/LT/LL/RL/H 6 0
Jump Jet Right Leg 1 2
Jump Jet Left Leg 1 2
Jump Jet Center Torso 1 2
Cost = 9,976,500 C-bills
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AS7-PPC ATLAS
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Defiance Foundation Type C EndoSteel
Power Plant: Vlar 300
Cruising Speed: 32 kph
Maximum Speed: 54 kph
Jump Jets: HildCo Model 12
Jump Capacity: 90 meters
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy with CASE
Armament:
1 Poland Main Model A Gauss Rifle
2 Donal Particle Projection Cannons
1 Defiance B3L Large Laser
3 Defiance B3M Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: Robinson Standard BattleWorks
Primary Factory: Robinson (refits only)
Communications System: Angst Discom
Targeting and Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
OVERVIEW
The loss of Quentin to the Draconis Combine deprived not only the Federated Suns of their sole Atlas factory but robbed the Draconis March of their best production site. The absence of such a valuable defense manufacturer left the Duke of Robinson desperately seeking a suitable replacement. Funding the growth of Robinson Standard BattleWorks and backing research projects in association with Defiance Industries eventually paid dividends after the Battle of Tukayyid. Partnering with his ‘Lyran allies on Hesperus’ allowed the Sandovals to underwrite the design of a newly optimized Atlas. Ever a fan of widely available and proven technologies the Old Duke’s engineers also managed to integrate some new lostech into their creation. The result was a new take on the largest BattleMech currently in service throughout the Draconis March.
CAPABILITIES
Using many of the same component parts as the AS7-GLL shares many of its features but there are also important differences. A single Poland Main Model A Gauss Rifle has been paired with two Donal Particle Projection Cannons and a Defiance B3L Large Laser in order to provide sustained fire in battle. Three Defiance B3M Medium Lasers further supplement the Mech’s offensive potential but pilot’s are cautioned not to Alpha Strike with all these weapons. Even the fifteen Double Heat Sinks found on the AS7-PPC will not be able to dissipate all of this enormous heat plum. This can be further complicated by utilizing the three HildCo Model 12 Jump Jets fitted to this Atlas which allows for astounding mobility for a one-hundred-ton war machine. Designers also added another half ton of Durallex Special Heavy armor with CASE to maximize protection. With these defenses and little onboard that can catastrophically explode this Atlas is incredibly hard to defeat in battle.
DEPLOYMENT
The AS7-PPC debuted impressively on Solaris VII during the Atlas Off when Mechwarrior Idunn Hakkon finished second to the AS7-GLL. Although defeated in the end duel this variant quickly became popular especially in the Draconis March. Duke Sandoval was quick to authorize more refits at his BattleWorks where he dreams of one day having his very own Atlas factory.
Type: AS7-PPC Atlas
Technology Base: InnerSphere Level 2
Tonnage: 100 tons
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: EndoSteel 5
Engine: 300 19
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 3
Heat Sinks: 15 (30) 5
Gyro: 3
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 307 19.5
Internal Structure Armor Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 50 / 12
R/L Torso 21 32 / 10
R/L Arm 17 34
R/L Leg 21 42
Weapons and Ammo: Location Criticals Mass
Gauss Rifle Right Torso 10 14
Ammo (Gauss) 16 Right Torso 2 2
CASE Right Torso 1 .5
2 PPCs Left Torso 6 14
Large Laser Left Arm 2 5
2 Medium Lasers Right Arm 2 2
Medium Laser Center Torso (R) 1 1
Jump Jet Right Leg 1 2
Jump Jet Left Leg 1 2
Jump Jet Center Torso 1 2
Cost = 10,602,000 C-bills
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Well folks those are my four right out of the gate. Used them about two years ago in Solaris setting with one of my players which produced some interesting results. Got to finish detailing two of them and I am anxiously awaiting their competition! ;)
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Well, here's my first entry:
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BattleMech Technical Readout
AS7-Z Atlas
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Foundation Type 12X Endo Steel
Power Plant: Defiance Motors 400 XL
Cruising Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy with CASE
Armament:
1 Poland Main Model A Gauss Rifle
1 FarFire Maxi-Rack LRM-20
1 Artemis IV FCS
3 Hovertec Streak SRM-2s
2 Defiance P5M Medium Pulse Lasers
Manufacturer: Defiance Industries
Primary Factory: Hesperus II (FC)
Communications System: Angst Discom
Targeting & Tracking System: Angst Accuracy with Artemis IV FCS
Type: AS7-Z Atlas
Technology Base: Inner Sphere Level 2 3053
Tonnage: 100
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: ES 5.0
Engine: 400 XL 26.5
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: 10 [20] 0
Gyro: 4
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 304 19.0
Internal Armor
Structure Value
Head: 3 9
Center Torso: 31 47
Center Torso (Rear): 14
R/L Torso: 21 32
R/L Torso (Rear): 10
R/L Arm: 17 34
R/L Leg: 21 41
BV 1: 1,884 Cost: 28,503,334 C-Bills
Weapons and Ammo Location Critical Heat Mass
Ammo (Gauss) 24 RA 3 0 3.0
Medium Pulse Laser RA 1 4 2.0
Ammo (LRM) 18 LA 3 0 3.0
Ammo (Streak) 50 LA 1 0 1.0
Medium Pulse Laser LA 1 4 2.0
Gauss Rifle RT 7 1 15.0
Streak SRM-2 RT 1 2 1.5
CASE RT 1 0 0.5
LRM-20 LT 5 6 10.0
Artemis IV FCS LT 1 0 1.0
Streak SRM-2 LT 1 2 1.5
CASE LT 1 0 0.5
Streak SRM-2 CT 1 2 1.5
ACTUATORS RA RH LA LH
ES H1 RA4 LA3 LT1 CT1 RL2 LL2
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I wonder what you fine folks will think of it...?
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Atlas AS8-W
Mass: 100 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-D-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 10,694,000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2,152
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X Standard
Power Plant: Vlar 300 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 32.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 54.0 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy Standard Armor w/ CASE
Armament:
1 Mitchell Systems LRM-15 w/ Artemis IV FCS
2 Series 7W ER Large Lasers
1 Mydron Excell LB 10-X AC
1 SRM-6 w/ Artemis IV FCS
Manufacturer: Blackwell Heavy Industries
Primary Factory: Outreach
Communications System: Angst Discom
Targeting and Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
Overview:
A refit package, first developed for use by the Wolf Dragoons' Zeta Battalion but later sold to mercenary and House militaries alike, the 8-W refit is a simple but effective refit that brings one of the Inner Sphere's most famous Assault 'Mechs up to close to the standards of its nigh-mythical successor, the AS7-D-H Atlas II.
Capabilities:
Replacing the heatsinks and almost all armaments is a laborious refit, but the result is a machine more able to engage Clan Mechs in the long-range battles that have become more common in the 3050s.
The original Atlas has only it's LRM launcher to engage targets past 300m. Refitted, a slight reduction in the size of the launcher (replacing it with an Imp's Mitchell launcher) and replacing the 'Mech Hunter autocannon with the longer-ranged and more flexible Mydron Excel allows the installation of the Series 7W extended range lasers (a staple under the Star League of the Falcon light 'mech) in place of the arm-mounted medium lasers. Artemis IV Fire Control systems largely-offset the smaller LRM salvo, while bolstering SRM salvo density at close ranges.
While the AS8-W does lack the point-blank punch of the heavy autocannon, the simple fact is that most 'Mechwarriors have an increased ability to simply avoid its effective range and pick the Atlas apart. The AS8-W can employ most of its weapon systems at double this old range - and as the external differences are marginal, many an unwary warrior has already been caught off guard. Losing the rear lasers is another blow, but twisting to bring an arm laser to bear is almost effective at short range and significantly more so at any great distance.
The refit loses none of the Atlas' famously heavy protection and cellular munition storage makes it much less likely to suffer a total chassis loss. In addition, a 60% increase in heat dissipation means that anything short of a point-blank alpha-strike should be manageable for any competent mechwarrior.
Battle History:
The Atlas 8-W saw its debut on Luthien, with a handful of refitted Atlas from the Dragoons' line regiments seeing action.
Deployment:
Besides the ranks of the Wolf Dragoons, the AS8-W has appeared in the ranks of the DCMS, AFFC and many mercenary units, readily available for sale either on site at Harlech on Outreach or by shipping to the nearby Combine and Commonwealth depots.
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Equipment Type Rating Mass
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Internal Structure: Standard 152 points 10.00
Engine: Fusion Engine 300 19.00
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 16(32) 6.00
Heat Sink Locations: 2 LA, 2 RA
Gyro: Standard 3.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor: Standard Armor AV - 304 19.00
CASE Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT 1.00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 47
Center Torso (rear) 14
L/R Torso 21 32
L/R Torso (rear) 10
L/R Arm 17 34
L/R Leg 21 41
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Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
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LB 10-X AC RT 2 6 11.00
LRM-15 LT 5 3 7.00
Artemis IV FCS LT - 1 1.00
SRM-6 LT 4 2 3.00
Artemis IV FCS LT - 1 1.00
ER Large Laser RA 12 2 5.00
ER Large Laser LA 12 2 5.00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (10) RT - 1 1.00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (20) RT - 2 2.00
@LRM-15 (Artemis) (16) LT - 2 2.00
@SRM-6 (Artemis) (15) LT - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 10
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 10 Points: 22
3 4 5 4 0 4 0 Structure: 8
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1, FLK 1/1/1
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Good start to the contest Hominid and drakensis!!
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Atlas AS7-SS
Introduction Year: 3052
Cost: 10,648,000 C-bills
Battle Value: 2,335
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X
Power Plant: Vlar 300
Cruising Speed: 32.4 kph
Maximum Speed: 54 kph
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy
Armament:
3 Streak SRM 2
1 Gauss Rifle
1 LRM 15
1 Binary Laser (Blazer) Cannon
2 Medium Pulse Laser
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communication System: Angst Discom
Targeting & Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure Endo Steel 5
Engine 300 Fusion 19
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0
Double Heat Sink 14 [28] 4
Gyro 3
Cockpit 3
Armor Factor 304 19
Internal Armor
Structure Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 47
Center Torso (rear) 14
R/L Torso 21 32
R/L Torso (rear) 10
R/L Arm 17 34
R/L Leg 21 41
Weapons Location Critical Heat Tonnage
Gauss Rifle RT 7 1 15.0
Binary Laser Cannon RA 4 16 9.0
LRM 15 LT 3 5 7.0
Artemis IV FCS LT 1 - 1.0
3 Streak SRM 2 LT 3 2 4.5
Medium Pulse Laser CT(R) 1 4 2.0
Medium Pulse Laser CT 1 4 2.0
Gauss Rifle Ammo (24) RT 3 - 3.0
LRM 15 Artemis-capable Ammo (16) LT 2 - 2.0
Streak SRM 2 Ammo (50) LT 1 - 1.0
CASE LT 1 - 0.5
Double Heat Sink LA 3 - 1.0
Double Heat Sink RA 3 - 1.0
Right Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand
Left Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand
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Will fluff later. Note to self for later. A refit utilizing excess Hermes 400 XL engines from the Charger line on Luthien. Geared towards more direct fire support than traditional Atlas's
Atlas AS7-K2
Introduction Year: 3051
Cost: 28,479,333 C-bills
Battle Value: 2,214
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X
Power Plant:
Cruising Speed: 43.2 kph
Maximum Speed: 64.8 kph
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy
Armament:
2 ER PPC
1 Gauss Rifle
2 SRM 6
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communication System: Angst Discom
Targeting & Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure Endo Steel 5
Engine 400 XL 26.5
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6
Jumping MP: 0
Double Heat Sink 15 [30] 5
Gyro 4
Cockpit 3
Armor Factor 288 18
Internal Armor
Structure Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 45
Center Torso (rear) 10
R/L Torso 21 32
R/L Torso (rear) 10
R/L Arm 17 32
R/L Leg 21 38
Weapons Location Critical Heat Tonnage
ER PPC LA 3 15 7.0
ER PPC RA 3 15 7.0
Gauss Rifle RT 7 1 15.0
Gauss Rifle Ammo (16) RT 2 - 2.0
2 SRM 6 LT 4 4 6.0
SRM 6 Ammo (15) LT 1 - 1.0
CASE LT 1 - 0.5
Right Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand
Left Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand
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A Davion refit inspired by the Wolf Dragoon's Annihilator
Atlas AS8-D
Introduction Year: 3051
Cost: 11,116,000 C-bills
Battle Value: 2,134
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X
Power Plant: Vlar 300
Cruising Speed: 32.4 kph
Maximum Speed: 54 kph
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy
Armament:
5 Medium Laser
3 LB 10-X AC
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communication System: Angst Discom
Targeting & Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure 10
Engine 300 Fusion 19
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0
Double Heat Sink 11 [22] 1
Gyro 3
Cockpit 3
Armor Factor 304 19
Internal Armor
Structure Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 46
Center Torso (rear) 15
R/L Torso 21 32
R/L Torso (rear) 10
R/L Arm 17 33
R/L Leg 21 42
Weapons Location Critical Heat Tonnage
LB 10-X AC LA 6 2 11.0
LB 10-X AC LT 6 2 11.0
LB 10-X AC RT 6 2 11.0
2 Medium Laser CT 2 3 2.0
Medium Laser RT 1 3 1.0
Medium Laser LT 1 3 1.0
Medium Laser RA 1 3 1.0
LB 10-X Cluster Ammo (10) RT 1 - 1.0
LB 10-X AC Ammo (10) RT 1 - 1.0
LB 10-X Cluster Ammo (20) LT 2 - 2.0
LB 10-X AC Ammo (20) LT 2 - 2.0
CASE RT 1 - 0.5
CASE LT 1 - 0.5
Right Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand
Left Arm Actuators: Shoulder, Upper Arm, Lower Arm, Hand
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Very nice Bradshaw!!!
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Since its the last one might as well throw another one in the hat.
The personal 'Mech of the Mercenary known as the Kurgan. Victor Clancy
Atlas AS7-Kurgan
Introduction Year: 3013
Cost: 9,260,000 C-bills
Battle Value: 1,773
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Standard Biped
Power Plant: 300 Fusion
Cruising Speed: 32.4 kph
Maximum Speed: 54 kph
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Standard
Armament:
1 Thumper
1 LRM 15
1 Large Laser
1 SRM 6
2 Medium Laser
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communication System: Unknown
Targeting & Tracking System: Unknown
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure 10
Engine 300 Fusion 19
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sink 20 10
Gyro 3
Cockpit 3
Armor Factor 304 19
Internal Armor
Structure Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 46
Center Torso (rear) 15
R/L Torso 21 32
R/L Torso (rear) 10
R/L Arm 17 33
R/L Leg 21 42
Weapons Location Critical Heat Tonnage
Thumper RT/RA 12/3 5 15.0
Large Laser CT 2 8 5.0
2 Medium Lasers LA 2 3 2.0
LRM 15 LT 3 5 7.0
SRM 6 LT 2 4 3.0
Thumper Ammo (20) LT 1 - 1.0
LRM 15 Ammo (16) LT 2 - 2.0
SRM 6 Ammo (15) LT 1 - 1.0
2 Heat Sinks LT 2 - 2.0
2 Heat Sinks RL 2 - 2.0
2 Heat Sinks LL 2 - 2.0
Heat Sink LA 1 - 1.0
Heat Sink HD 1 - 1.0
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There can be only one. Good Mech except against the Highlander.
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(lightbulb appears over head)
So that's how Elric von Steffelbus manages to be ageless and need to keep periodically assuming the identity of his own supposed lookalike son! He's an old drinking buddy of Connor and Duncan McLeod!
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Not to rain on anyone else's parade, but the Atlas just... doesn't excite me. Never has. It's just a giant honking block of armor with 3/5 speed and half the firepower of an Archer. Or roughly the same firepower as the Whitworth. WOOOOOW. Sure, it's got a LOT of armor, but unless one of the two players is defending a chokepoint, none of those 9" range guns on the 7-D matter when it can just be whittled down from range. Okay sure, it's got a bulbous skull head? Yaaaaaaay, skulls are totally overdone in miniature wargames.
And any variation on it that I would want, has already been designed. Cheap and cheerful support 'Mech? AS7-RS. Expensive fire support? AS7-K. Less expensive version of the 7-K? Atlas II and Titan II. Super-heavy firepower on a pillbox? Annihilator series. Double boom-sticks? Fafnir or Pillager series. Triple boom sticks? Thunder Hawk for total wretched excess. ACTUAL useful fire-support at 100t? Imp series. Just as anemic as the Atlas but with waaaay more character? King Crab series, or the Marauder II.
Plus there's the Berserker as a case study in how not to ever design a melee 'Mech.
I kept trying to get excited about the Atlas, but it just doesn't speak to me, at all, in the slightest. I know it's "iconic", but I just don't see how it's anywhere as good as the other iconic 'Mechs in the game, or even just in the 3025 tech readout. Without its quirks (and plenty of people don't use quirks) it's just utterly mediocre, which is not what you want in your expensive assault 'Mechs. WITH the quirks, it's... slightly better than OK? I guess it'll keep your commander alive and useful except for the occasional lucky head shot.
I guess I just don't use the 100-ton 'Mechs, not when there's so many more useful 'Mechs at lower tonnages. But if I ever had to field a 100-tonner, I'd reach straight for the Clan second-line options: Jupiter 1 and Bane 3. Pure delicious oozing cheese in a fire support package. Practically a "win" button for each.
And I admit I own an Archangel, but it came as part of a set, I swear.
----------
edit: I double-checked the BV, and I can field two whitworths for one 7-D atlas, which is a trade I would take every day, and twice on Sundays. Even in alpha strike, which is much kinder to the 7-D atlas, two Whitworths are still a decent trade (and the PV still works for a 2:1 swap).
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Okay sure, it's got a bulbous skull head? Yaaaaaaay, skulls are totally overdone in miniature wargames.
But for all that, a cosmetic redesign to incorporate a skull motif could still make even a lowly UrbanMech seem a lot more intimidating to an opponent. Psyching out the enemy can be a serious force multiplier.
Edit 1:
Or there's the opposite approach: paint a 'Mech pink and spangle it with gold and silver stars so that it looks like a refugee from a toy line aimed at preteen girls. The enemy will be so distracted by laughing that he won't even realize you're approaching closely enough for even your shortest-ranged weapons to target him when you alpha strike his ass!
Edit 2:
Or, for a third option, give your 'Mech a skull motif and paint it pink! The enemy will run away because he'll think you have multiple personality disorder and be afraid that at least one of your personalities is planning to eat his liver with some fava beans and a nice chianti!
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Designing an effective Atlas is one of the harder challenges here in my opinion. The shortcomings of the AS7-K demonstrate that pretty clearly as critical spaces start disappearing pretty quick depending on engine choice. If you go with a 300 XL like that lostech upgrade has you get a lot of tons but just 12 free heat sinks. With all the weight available you run through those free heat sinks fast and using InnerSphere DHS cost 3 crits per 1. If you go for a 400 XL which is very possible as Bradshaw points out you get 16 free heat sinks but that gobbles up a lot of tonnage. If you designed this Mech using Clan tech it gets a lot easier.
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If you designed this Mech using Clan tech it gets a lot easier.
Yup. Combine that with what Nicholas Kerensky piloted and it becomes pretty much inexplicable that the Clans never produced an Atlas IIC.
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That's why the Menoetius by Clan Coyote won a Quicksilver contest. ;)
Link below -
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/mechfactory/quicksilver-program-19-100-ton-zombie-omnimech/
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Okay sure, it's got a bulbous skull head? Yaaaaaaay, skulls are totally overdone in miniature wargames.
But for all that, a cosmetic redesign to incorporate a skull motif could still make even a lowly UrbanMech seem a lot more intimidating to an opponent. Psyching out the enemy can be a serious force multiplier.
I almost named it Kael and used that bit for the one variant after a certain famous general from the 80s
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But for all that, a cosmetic redesign to incorporate a skull motif could still make even a lowly UrbanMech seem a lot more intimidating to an opponent. Psyching out the enemy can be a serious force multiplier.
I almost named it Kael and used that bit for the one variant after a certain famous general from the 80s
Had to Google "General Kael" as it's a looong time since the one occasion when I watched the movie Willow and my memory isn't that good!
One variant of what? An Urbie?
Edit:
I'm guessing you're referring to this
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/mechfactory/post-your-urbanmechs!!/
. That opening pic is hilarious!
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Was talking about the Atlas as he used the Skull helmet. Kurgan did as well and I liked his character better.
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Was talking about the Atlas as he used the Skull helmet. Kurgan did as well and I liked his character better.
Oh, right.
Got to wonder if the Highlander franchise would ever have gotten beyond the first movie if Clancy Brown hadn't been cast in the role.
Edit:
And he was the only one of the three leading actors who had the good judgement not to return for the cringe-inducing sack of crap that was the second movie!
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His quote on Highlander 2
They sent me, like, the first 10 pages of it, and I said, "What the F... What is this? Give me the rest of the script?" And they said, "Well, we want your commitment before we give you the rest of the script." And they said, "Well, we're just gonna pay you the same." And I said, "Nah, see you later. [Laughs] I'm not gonna do this. First of all, this makes no sense. Second of all, you're not gonna pay me anything. So there's no reason for me to do this at all!" So then Christopher [Lambert] calls me up and says, "Oh, you've got to do this with us! You've got to do this with us!" I said, "Chris, it's horrible. The idea is terrible, what I read was awful..." And he says, "I helped write that." [Laughs] I'm, like, "Well, I guess I'm never gonna be doing any more Highlanders!" He’s a great guy and I love him to death, but it was doomed from the beginning. If I wasn't getting paid... I will do shit for money. But I'm not gonna do shit for no money. I'll do quality for no money. So if it had been any good, maybe. But it was no good from the get-go
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(nods)
Read that on Wikipedia a while ago. You can understand Christopher Lambert being enthusiastic - it was a chance to reprise his first major international role. But what was Sean Connery's excuse!?
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Sir Sean Connery received $3.5 million for nine days of work. Connery donated the money to charitable causes.
https://www.filmstories.co.uk/features/sean-connery-and-his-highlander-ii-contract-restrictions/ (https://www.filmstories.co.uk/features/sean-connery-and-his-highlander-ii-contract-restrictions/)
We've taken this thread way off point lol Takiro is gonna yell at me. ::) ;)
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Ah. That's actually the best excuse he could possibly have had. Fair enough. :)
Oh, well, if you get yelled at you can put half the blame on me. (Or vice versa.) Misery loves company and all that. :(
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Good side conversation guys, anyone got some more Atlases??
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Looks like our transgression has been pardoned, Bradshaw! :)
I've got one more, but it's just as unimaginative as the previous one, I'm afraid.
- - - - - -
BattleMech Technical Readout
AS7-K2 Atlas
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Foundation Type 12X Endo Steel
Power Plant: LTV 400 XL
Cruising Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Special Heavy with CASE
Armament:
1 Dragon's Fire Gauss Rifle
1 Shigunga LRM-20
2 Victory Nickel Alloy ER Large Lasers
Manufacturer: Independence Weaponry, Yori 'Mech Works
Primary Factory: Quentin (DC), Al Na'ir (DC)
Communications System: Sipher Security Plus
Targeting & Tracking System: Matabushi Sentinel
Type: AS7-K2 Atlas
Technology Base: Inner Sphere Level 2 3053
Tonnage: 100
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: ES 5.0
Engine: 400 XL 26.5
Walking MP: 4
Running MP: 6
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: 11 [22] 1
Gyro: 4
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 296 18.5
Internal Armor
Structure Value
Head: 3 9
Center Torso: 31 43
Center Torso (Rear): 14
R/L Torso: 21 31
R/L Torso (Rear): 10
R/L Arm: 17 33
R/L Leg: 21 41
BV 1: 1,746 Cost: 28,487,334 C-Bills
Weapons and Ammo Location Critical Heat Mass
Ammo (Gauss) 24 RA 3 0 3.0
ER Large Laser RA 2 12 5.0
Ammo (LRM) 18 LA 3 0 3.0
ER Large Laser LA 2 12 5.0
Gauss Rifle RT 7 1 15.0
CASE RT 1 0 0.5
LRM-20 LT 5 6 10.0
CASE LT 1 0 0.5
ACTUATORS RA RH LA LH
ES RA3 LA3 RT1 LT3 RL2 LL2
- - - - - -
Nothing much I can really say to boost it, except that it's hopefully at least something of an improvement over the AS7-K. Well, that and the fact that the Dracs already produce the LTV 400 XL for the CGR-3K Charger, which makes the Endo Steel chassis the only new feature they'll need to develop from scratch.
Edit:
Some years down the line, a likely field refit would be to upgrade to an XL Gyro, drop one Heat Sink, add Artemis IV to the LRM-20 and replace the ER LLs with SN PPCs.
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Nice Hominid!
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Hominid2, unless you're trying to crit-pad the LRM ammunition, the ERLL might be better off in the CT.
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Hominid2, unless you're trying to crit-pad the LRM ammunition, the ERLL might be better off in the CT.
Have to admit I didn't think of that. But, on balance, I think the Dracs would still probably leave it in the arm for the widest possible arc of fire.
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I'll be sitting this contest out. Never really liked the Atlas, to tell you the truth. Besides, working on my fiction and working at work has been running me ragged and I don't have a lot of time to spare.
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Sorry to hear that masterarminas, I am trying to finish three Atlas now.
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For all the variations of the Atlas and other 100-tonners around, there aren’t a lot of pure missile boats, and honestly that strikes me as optimal for a 3/5 fire support command ‘Mech. After all, my favorite 100-tonner is the Bane 3, and this isn’t as good, but still nearly as good as a Viking (and better when firing indirectly). In this case, the insane amount of explosive ammunition means that CASE is necessary… but that a Master C3 system is likely to get blown to bits when the CASE is inevitably activated. So this is a ‘Command’ Mech that isn’t a Master C3 node for the Dragon.
Type: Atlas AS7-KC
Production: Draconis Combine (Independence Weaponry)
Combat Value: 2230 BV
Total Cost: 10,626,000 C-Bills + 330k ammo (including x2 tonnage premium)
Internal Struc (Endo): 5t
Engine: Vlar 300: 19t
Walking: 3
Running: 5
Heat Sinks: 12(24): 2t
Gyro/Cockpit (std) 6t
Armor Factor (std) 19t (304 pips)
Head 3/9
Center Torso 31/47/14
R/L Torso 21/32/10
R/L Front Leg 17/34
R/L Rear Leg 21/41
Quirks: Battlefists, Command Mech, Distracting, Improved Comms
5x LRM-15 (15cr, 35t) RA/2RT/LT/LA
12x Ammo (LRM) 96 (12cr, 12t) 5RT/7LT <--- usually one or two tons of Deadfire missiles
2x CASE (2cr, 1t) RT/LT
1x C3 Slave (1cr, 1t) H
Although Independence Weaponry of Quentin released the Atlas AS7-K in 3050, the ‘Mech suffered from several striking weaknesses that were exposed during the Clan Invasion – the inability to handle the heat of a full broadside, and the expensive and vulnerable Vlar 300 XL engine, among other things. As a result, Independence crash-developed the AS7-KC, with the first few examples delivered to rebuilding DCMS units in the first quarter of 3053.
The revamped KC reverts to the older, more compact Vlar 300 standard engine, with two tons of double-strength heat baffles integrated into the engine itself (reflecting the production limitations in the Combine that limited the number of self-contained double heat sinks available in the early 3050s). The side-torso integrated CASE systems were retained, protecting the five-and-seven tons of ammunition in the right and left torsos. The major manufacturing shift was the use of Alshain Class 920 Endo-Steel, taken from their unpopular Victor lines, and heavily reinforced to handle the 100 ton load of the Atlas. The full nineteen tons of Durallex Special Heavy armor, which makes the Atlas one of the best-protected ‘Mechs in the Inner Sphere, was retained.
The major changes come from armament. All the expensive advanced weapons systems (Gauss Rifles, ER lasers, pulse lasers) were all replaced with a spread of five Shigunga LRM-15 systems, with one set of missile tubes in each arm (in a ‘shoulder’ mount), one in the left torso, and two racks in the right torso. The firing systems are controlled by the Angst Discom and Accuracy electronics suite of the classic Atlas, which also include a satellite uplink capability and a full command suite capable of coordinating the C&C of an entire company of ‘Mechs or other heavy units. The addition of a Tanadi Citizen C3 slave system just behind the iconic skull-head cockpit of the massive assault ‘Mech, just allows the Atlas AS7-KC to use allied targeting data to add fire support from long range, and indirect supporting fire as well. Although there was discussion of incorporating a Tanadi Coordinator Master C3 system instead, the heavy (and explosive) ammunition loads and incorporated CASE protection made DCMS leadership nervous about potentially losing the very pricey system – and thus the decision to include a C3 slave system in its place.
Although the KC has no backup weapons to speak of, Independence incorporated one last nasty ‘surprise’ for any foes that venture close, hoping to get within the minimum arming distance of an Inner Sphere LRM. Only just put into production by Luthien Armor Works the year before, the dead-fire missile trades accuracy for a massive close-range punch (comparable to an SRM). Independence recommends the KC carries at least one ton of such ammunition for emergencies, enabling this Atlas to hit with firepower potentially greater than a classic SRM carrier (or other ambush predators) should opponents come too close. In fact, the ammunition feeds of the KC are capable of feeding missiles from either torso bin to any and all of the LRM systems carried by this ‘Mech.
With low logistical costs, durability, hitting power, and a sticker price as well of just over 10 million C-Bills, this new Atlas is quickly garnering praise from DCMS pilots and commanders, who feel they can now more appropriately respond to Clan opponents (and in particular their long-ranged guns). The Gunji-no-Kanrei, Theodore Kurita, has already praised this Atlas for being an effective and cost-efficient design, and other ‘Mech companies in the Combine have started designing comparably hard-hitting, low cost heavy and assault ‘Mechs of their own in respose to the future Coordinator’s (seemingy) off-handed comments.
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...and I'm basically in agreement with mister A. I tried a bunch of things, but either recreated an existing 100-ton design, or wasn't satisfied with the firepower, so I think this is my only entry in the Atlas optimization.
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Kudos for even remembering that DFMs are an option - most of us don't!
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Very nice fabulousorcboy!
The Atlas is not an easy one to optimize, I will say that.
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The Atlas is not an easy one to optimize, I will say that.
I don't care about optimising for optimising. The story behind is more important :P
That said I have found an idea that makes sense and I hope that MasterArminas will like it.
And yes, this is a teaser.
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Glad to hear it Ice, looking forward to your entry!
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Overview
Thomas Calderon was known for his extreme paranoia for everything related to the Federated Suns and House Davion. This culminated with his order in 3049 for the Taurian Defence Forces to go on high alert in 3049 following a series of accidents and rogue raids on their common border and the Future Victor 39 military exercise being held there too. An order that still holds today.
Apart from jeopardising the whole Concordat and its economy thanks to the high priority given to the military in every aspect (transportation, mandatory defensive works on all planets, levies…) and even the military by keeping it in permanent alert without allowing it time to rest and refit or train, this full alert (something unseen even during the Reunification Wars or the Amaris’ Coup), this extreme paranoia had almost no positive aspect. One of the few positive aspects was the request to become almost self sufficient when it comes to ‘Mech and their upgrades to modern technologies.
This resulted in several intents and among them one of the most successful being the AS7-RST family.
Capabilities
All the AS7-RST are upgrades of the AS7-RS which makes them sometimes akin to the Atlas II of old, a back to the roots trips since some saw the AS7-RST has a downgrade of the SLDF advanced model.
Another feature of this family is that they are almost all upgraded only with components being made on Sterope and the Taurus Territorial Industries being in charge of the final retrofit thanks to their installation able to produce different kinds of ‘Mechs.
For the AS7-RST1-A, the first born of the family, the first step was to increase heat management thanks to the use of 16 Double Heat Sinks that dissipates more than the original 20 single ones while freeing much needed tons.
The weapons were all replaced by Taurian ones, starting with 2 Medium Lasers in the arms associated with 2 ER Large Lasers, courtesy of Sterope Defence Industries.
The local plant also replaced the LRM-20 by 4 LRM-5 and the SRM-6 by a Shannon Fore SRM-4 (found in the Commando) adding instead of the AC/20, a LB10-X with 3 tons of ammo to allow each ‘MechWarrior complete control over the way he uses the LB10-X.
No improvement was made on the armour but CASE was put into both torsos to improve the overall survivability of the ‘Mech.
Like the AS7-RS, the new upgraded ‘Mech was a much more diversified ‘Mech able to take down all kinds of targets at different ranges while suffering less from heat and ammo limitation than the AS7-D.
Battle History
The Taurian Guards are usually assigned to the protection of the Hyades Cluster but their battalions are rotating between their duty of protection of the core of the Taurian Concordat and patrol on the borders.
During one such patrol, a Heavy Company of the 1st Battalion detected unusual activity on a deserted planet and headed there to investigate. Leaving their only Assault ‘Mech, an Atlas, behind to guard their DropShip.
That was the occasion that the pirates staying on this planet had been waiting for, hoping to lure most of the Taurians away from their Ship and to take it. Unfortunately, they expected to face an AS7-D and had planned to fire at it from afar while outflanking it to bring it down.
However instead of having to deal only with a LRM-20, they came under the firepower of four LRM-5, two ER Large Lasers and one LB10-X, which were more than a match for them, even more with the DropShip being used as a supply depot.
When the pilot of the Atlas reported for duty to his commanding officer, he was quoted saying that “he felt sorry for being silent for so long but that he had been bothered by small mosquitoes.” When the rest of the unit came back, they saw the remains of the pirate units, earning the ‘MechWarrior in his Atlas the callsign of Mosquito.
Variants
Two different variants were made available.
The first one is the AS7-RST1-B1 which trades the ER Large Lasers for PPC thanks to the drop of 2 Heat Sinks and the use of Ferro-Fibrous Armour, a product quite common in the Taurian Concordat thanks to the Maultier.
The second one is the AS7-RST1-B2, which trades the PPC for Capellan ER PPC, specially imported.
Both variants need to be used with more caution because of the heavy burden imposed by the PPC and ER PPC on the cooling system, they are however appreciated for their heavier punch.
Deployment
All the Atlas of the Taurian Defence Forces are on their way to being upgraded to the new standard and several units operating in the Periphery but lucky enough to have one Atlas have placed orders for this retrofit. However Taurian Territorial Industries is unable to cope with the demand and the waiting list is rather long.
Notable ‘MechWarriors
The Devil's Own is the nickname of the 3 Subalterns leading the battalions of the Taurian1 Guards, each at the command of an upgraded Atlas as a symbol of the might of their units. When they are together and to confuse any opponent facing them, they all display a 6 as their tactical number, spearheading the destruction of anyone fool enough to face them.
Atlas AS7-RST1-A
Mass: 100 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-D-D
Production Year: 3052
Dry Cost: 10 304 000 C-Bills
Total Cost: 10 443 000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2 140
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X Standard
Power Plant: Vlar 300 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 32,4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 54,0 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Heavy Special Standard Armor w/ CASE
Armament:
2 Sterope Defense Industries/Diverse Optics Sunbeam ER Large Lasers
1 Sterope Defense Industries/Armstrong Class-B ClusterGun LB 10-X AC
2 Sterope Defense Industries/Diverse Optics Type 18 Medium Lasers
4 Sterope Defense Industries/Delta Dart LRM-5s
1 Vandenberg Mechanized Industries/Shannon Fore SRM-4
Manufacturer: Taurus Territorial Industries
Primary Factory: Sterope
Communications System: Angst Discom
Targeting and Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 152 points 10,00
Engine: Fusion Engine 300 19,00
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 16(32) 6,00
Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LA, 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 - 304 19,00
CASE Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT 1,00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 47
Center Torso (rear) 14
L/R Torso 21 32
L/R Torso (rear) 10
L/R Arm 17 34
L/R Leg 21 41
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
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LB 10-X AC RT 2 6 11,00
SRM-4 LT 3 1 2,00
4 LRM-5s LT 8 4 8,00
Medium Laser RA 3 1 1,00
ER Large Laser RA 12 2 5,00
Medium Laser LA 3 1 1,00
ER Large Laser LA 12 2 5,00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (20) RT - 2 2,00
@SRM-4 (25) LT - 1 1,00
@LRM-5 (48) LT - 2 2,00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (10) RA - 1 1,00
Free Critical Slots: 10
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 10 Points: 21
3 4 4 3 0 4 0 Structure: 8
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, LRM 1/1/1, IF 1, FLK 1/1/1
Atlas AS7-RST1-B1
Mass: 100 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-D-D
Production Year: 3052
Dry Cost: 10 580 000 C-Bills
Total Cost: 10 719 000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2 166
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X Standard
Power Plant: Vlar 300 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 32,4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 54,0 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Light Ferro-Fibrous Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
2 Sterope Defense Industries/Donal PPCs
1 Sterope Defense Industries/Armstrong Class-B ClusterGun LB 10-X AC
2 Sterope Defense Industries/Diverse Optics Type 18 Medium Lasers
4 Sterope Defense Industries/Delta Dart LRM-5s
1 Vandenberg Mechanized Industries/Shannon Fore SRM-4
Manufacturer: Taurus Territorial Industries
Primary Factory: Sterope
Communications System: Angst Discom
Targeting and Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
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Internal Structure: Standard 152 points 10,00
Engine: Fusion Engine 300 19,00
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 14(28) 4,00
Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT
Gyro: Standard 3,00
Cockpit: Standard 3,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 304 17,00
Armor Locations: 1 HD, 2 CT, 4 LA, 3 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
CASE Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT 1,00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 47
Center Torso (rear) 14
L/R Torso 21 32
L/R Torso (rear) 10
L/R Arm 17 34
L/R Leg 21 41
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LB 10-X AC RT 2 6 11,00
SRM-4 LT 3 1 2,00
4 LRM-5s LT 8 4 8,00
PPC RA 10 3 7,00
Medium Laser RA 3 1 1,00
PPC LA 10 3 7,00
Medium Laser LA 3 1 1,00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (20) RT - 2 2,00
@SRM-4 (25) LT - 1 1,00
@LRM-5 (48) LT - 2 2,00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (10) RA - 1 1,00
Free Critical Slots: 0
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 10 Points: 22
3 4 5 3 0 4 0 Structure: 8
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, LRM 1/1/1, IF 1, FLK 1/1/1
Atlas AS7-RST1-B2
Mass: 100 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-D-D
Production Year: 3052
Dry Cost: 10 980 000 C-Bills
Total Cost: 11 119 000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 2 181
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X Standard
Power Plant: Vlar 300 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 32,4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 54,0 km/h
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Durallex Light Ferro-Fibrous Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
2 Ceres Metal Industries/Ceres Arms Warrior ER PPCs
1 Sterope Defense Industries/Armstrong Class-B ClusterGun LB 10-X AC
2 Sterope Defense Industries/Diverse Optics Type 18 Medium Lasers
4 Sterope Defense Industries/Delta Dart LRM-5s
1 Vandenberg Mechanized Industries/Shannon Fore SRM-4
Manufacturer: Taurus Territorial Industries
Primary Factory: Sterope
Communications System: Angst Discom
Targeting and Tracking System: Angst Accuracy
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard 152 points 10,00
Engine: Fusion Engine 300 19,00
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 14(28) 4,00
Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT
Gyro: Standard 3,00
Cockpit: Standard 3,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 304 17,00
Armor Locations: 1 HD, 2 CT, 4 LA, 3 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
CASE Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT 1,00
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 47
Center Torso (rear) 14
L/R Torso 21 32
L/R Torso (rear) 10
L/R Arm 17 34
L/R Leg 21 41
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LB 10-X AC RT 2 6 11,00
SRM-4 LT 3 1 2,00
4 LRM-5s LT 8 4 8,00
Medium Laser RA 3 1 1,00
ER PPC RA 15 3 7,00
Medium Laser LA 3 1 1,00
ER PPC LA 15 3 7,00
@LB 10-X (Cluster) (20) RT - 2 2,00
@SRM-4 (25) LT - 1 1,00
@LRM-5 (48) LT - 2 2,00
@LB 10-X (Slug) (10) RA - 1 1,00
Free Critical Slots: 0
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 10 Points: 22
3 3 4 3 0 4 2 Structure: 8
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1, FLK 0/0/0
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Very nice Ice!
I got one more coming and added fluff last night to my others.
Don't forget to fluff your entries or get them in by midnight tonight.
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Since the site crashed on Friday with 12 or less hours remaining i am going to extend this contest another week. So new deadline is December 24th at midnight Eastern Standard Time. Any further ideas you want to expand on please feel free to go ahead.
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AS7-K2 ATLAS
Mass: 100 tons
Chassis: Foundation Type 10X
Power Plant: Vlar 300
Cruising Speed: 32 kph
Maximum Speed: 54 kph
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: None
Armor: Durallex Ferro-Fibrous with CASE
Armament:
1 Grizzard Model 200 Gauss Rifle
2 Shigunga Long Range Missile 15-Racks
1 Victory Nickel Alloy Extended Range Large Lasers
2 Diverse Optics Type 20 Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: Yori ‘Mech Works, Independence Weaponry
Primary Factory: Al Na’ir (Yori), Quentin (Independence)
Communications System: Sipher Security Plus
Targeting and Tracking System: Matabushi Sentinel with C3 Slave
OVERVIEW
Dissatisfaction with the lostech AS7-K became more and more apparent as the Clan Invasion pushed forward. Unfortunately, the Draconis Combine faced certain technical limitations which were further compounded by wartime casualties. With many of its worlds captured and industries occupied it seemed unlikely that even the mighty House Kurita could address these shortcomings in the near future. Thankfully ComStar which itself was recovering from the Battle of Tukayyid was willing to help and following the Martial Accords cooperation between the two powers rapidly produces a newly optimized version of the Atlas dubbed the AS7-K2.
CAPABILITIES
The AS7-K2 sticks with the venerable Foundation Type 10X chassis but goes back to the old compact Vlar 300 Fusion Engine. Rather than the bulkier and more expensive Hermes 300 XL this venerable power plant proved to be more resilient to battle damage in spite of its heavy weight. A dozen Double Heat Sinks replace the twenty standard models thanks to production assistance from ComStar on Terra. While they can't dissipate all weapon and movement heat these imported 'freezers' allow this Atlas to utilize far more of its arsenal than its predecessor. The Combine still hopes to manufacture its own Double Heat Sinks within the next five years but with the Clan threat still lingering not even the proudest Draconian would refuse such advantageous equipment. While the Gauss Rifle has been retained the chaos caused by the Third Marik Civil War made the Dragon turn to its native made Grizzard Model 200 rather than the imported Imperator Dragon's Fire. This massive cannon produced on Hun Ho for a new BattleMech equals the performance of the Free Worlds League model. The new Victory Heartbeat Medium Pulse Lasers replaced by older Diverse Optics Type 20 Medium Lasers made on Kessel for the Shilone and Slayer. These supporting energy weapons are mounted in each and now fire forward to cover the LRMs minimum range issues. The Shiguunga Long Range Missile 20-Rack has been replaced by two Shigunga Long Range Missile 15-Racks located in each side torso. Additionally, these racks have been mated to Artemis IV Fire Control Systems to further enhance missile hit ratios. Finally one of the Victory Nickel Alloy Extended Range Large Lasers from the AS7-K was kept for this redesign. Moved to the center torso for maximum protection it ensures that this Atlas will endure tremendous damage and keep on fighting. Finally, the Yori Flyswatter Anti-Missile System was dropped altogether in favor of a C3 Slave which allowed this war machine to better coordinate its fire with lance and company mates. Many expected a C3 Master Computer or two on this traditional command asset but others recognize that this Assault ‘Mech is just that. Nineteen tons of Durallex Special Heavy plating were upgraded with seventeen tons of Ferro-Fibrous which do a slightly better job of providing maximum design protection. This advanced armor with torso protected CASEs and the older more compact fusion engine make this a difficult opponent for any Clan or InnerSphere Mech to defeat. All the high-tech equipment used in this retrofit is bulky and occupies much of the BattleMech’s internal space although some room does remain for further modification. Costing nearly eleven million C-bills less than the AS7-K one could almost buy two K2s for the price of one of its predecessors.
DEPLOYMENT
Rumor has it that Precentor Martial Anastasius Focht was the driving force behind the modernization of this Atlas. His first-hand experience on Tukayyid and diplomatic skill in establishing the Accords was invaluable to the upgrade. It therefore comes as no surprise that the first model produced was gifted to him by a grateful Coordinator. Manufacturing thus far has been allocated at a 2 to 1 ratio to the DCMS over the ComGuard. Both militaries have welcomed the new Atlas into their ranks with opened arms and look forward to gauging its capabilities against the Clans. The AS7-K2 also allows for easier refits of existing Atlases which should enable anyone who desires to produce an appropriate refit kit. Unfortunately, this new creation has also seemed to inflame tensions with the Draconis March who fear that it will one day be used against them.
VARIANTS
Despite the growing levels of trust between the Dragon and the Order every ComStar variant of this design lacks the C3 Slave. So far, the Combine has jealously restricted the sale and exportation of this unique technology to other realms. The ComGuards have simply replaced it with a head mounted Medium Laser that like its companions should only be used within the LRMs minimum range to avoid overheating issues. It should be noted that rumors of further technical exchanges and research between these two parties continue in spite of this singular incident.
Type: Atlas
Technology Base: InnerSphere Level 2
Tonnage: 100 tons
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: 10
Engine: 300 19
Walking MP: 3
Running MP: 5
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: 12 (24) 2
Gyro: 3
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 305 17
Internal Structure Armor Value
Head 3 9
Center Torso 31 45 / 15
R/L Torso 21 32 / 10
R/L Arm 17 34
R/L Leg 21 42
Weapons and Ammo: Location Criticals Mass
Medium Laser Right Arm 1 1
Medium Laser Left Arm 1 1
Gauss Rifle Right Torso 7 15
CASE Right Torso 1 .5
Ammo (Gauss) 16 Right Arm 2 2
LRM-15 Right Torso 3 7
Artemis IV FCS Right Torso 1 1
LRM-15 Left Torso 3 7
Artemis IV FCS Left Torso 1 1
Ammo (LRM) 32 Left Torso 4 4
CASE Left Torso 1 .5
ER Large Laser Center Torso 2 5
C3 Slave Head 1 1
Cost = 11,756,000 C-bills
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This is a good way to ring out the year, but after having enjoyed this series for over 2 years (and contributed for over a year personally), I have to ask: what next?
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Well, I still have to put the Optimized and Quicksilver contests together into a fanbook which does entail me completing the review contests on this series. In 2022 the plan is to step up on writing for Salient Horizon. I am going to work on those two things in earnest next so contests from me will be more irregular but I do have ideas for more such as an Optimized 3055 which you've seen here and there already as well. Actually, the next contest idea for an Optimized 3055 is based on comments you've made. I'll probably post after the start of the new year.
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Instead of 3055. I either suggest one of two things. Either do Vehicle 3026 version or Aerospace fighters.
55 imo is too soon for many new designs. As even in 3050 those designs were either just coming out or soon coming out.
58-60 would be the next big change with IS coming out with Clan equivalents like ER Medium Streak SRM 6 and such.
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I hear ya Bradshaw. My plan for 3055 optimized is different from canon as it will take into account the designs done here which might now occupy roles where replacements might not be necessary. A 3054 Optimized for Vehicles and Aerospace Fighters does sound interesting however. I just might go in that direction. Maybe I will take a pole. ;)
Don't forget the Atlas contest is still on here folks. You have till Christmas Eve thanks to our little forum outage now! ;)
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I think optimized aerospace fighters is a nifty idea, especially since XL engines are basically all-upside, no-downside on fighters...save for C-bills cost, of course.
And if we can use fuel cell engines (= fully canon in 3053), then vehicle optimization suddenly becomes a THING. Otherwise it's just tinkering with the same core non-energy weapons, or using fusion engines to make substandard battlemechs with less versatility, when you could just build battlemechs.
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I think optimized aerospace fighters is a nifty idea, especially since XL engines are basically all-upside, no-downside on fighters...save for C-bills cost, of course.
Wholeheartedly agree.
And if we can use fuel cell engines (= fully canon in 3053), then vehicle optimization suddenly becomes a THING. Otherwise it's just tinkering with the same core non-energy weapons, or using fusion engines to make substandard battlemechs with less versatility, when you could just build battlemechs.
I've always thoroughly disliked the way the rules are so rigged against Vehicles. Especially their never-explained inability to use DHS.
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I put up a poll with three choices. ;)
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Bring out your Atlases, bring out your Atlases!!
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Hey folks, just a reminder that this contest which will conclude our InnerSphere Optimization series is ending tonight at midnight Eastern Standard. This extension was granted because of last weekend's forum crash. You've got less than eleven hours from now to get your entries in, finalized, or enhanced in some fashion. Hope every is having a very happy and healthy Christmas Eve, good luck!
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Okay folks, that is that! No more entries please. This contest and this series have reached its conclusion. It is appropriate to me that it wraps up on Christmas because your participation was a real gift to me. Thank you all for your hard work, wonderful concepts, and inspiration on these concepts which will make for an exciting TRO. Ultimately, I can't wait till we have Quicksilver designs squaring off against these Optimized concepts. Merry Christmas!
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Merry Christmas!
And Merry Christmas to you too. :)