Topic: Optimizing the Grasshopper (Read 17008 times)

Takiro · « **on:** June 20, 2021, 10:03:30 PM »

Patience Grasshopper, welcome to our forty third optimization contest for Mechs of the InnerSphere circa 3053. I find it appropriate that we’re jumping around a little bit with this Heavy BattleMech that can leap. Dare I say this mobility is a nearly integral part to this war machine but I will not absolutely require it. However, I will judge the designs based on their jump jets or not. Now I’ve always liked the Grasshopper but strangely enough haven’t used it much in game that I can remember. I’ll have to change that soon cause this Large Laser Zombie is a pretty tough and underappreciated Capellan design. I’m really looking forward to seeing what you guys can come up with this time and thankfully we have the Mech of the Week article from CBT and BattleTechWiki (links below) to provide us with some inspiration.

'Mech of the Week: The Grasshopper
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/fan-articles/mech-of-the-week-the-grasshopper/

Grasshopper – BattleTechWiki
https://www.sarna.net/wiki/Grasshopper

Design Criteria
Design: Grasshopper Heavy BattleMech
Era: 3052, just following the Truce of Tukayyid
Tech: InnerSphere Level 2
Mass: 70 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 July 2nd 2021 by 11:59 PM which should give you all a full two weeks for this contest, good luck!!

Takiro · « **Reply #1 on:** June 20, 2021, 10:03:50 PM »

GHR-5L GRASSHOPPER

Mass: 70 tons
Chassis: Mingh z33/7
Power Plant: 280 VOX
Cruising Speed: 43 kph
Maximum Speed: 65 kph
Jump Jets: Leviathan Lifters
   Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Aldis Heavy Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
   3 Diplan HD Heavy Lasers
3 Diplan M3 Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: McCarron’s Trading Company
   Primary Factory: Menke
Communications System: Allet-C308
Targeting and Tracking System: Allet-T11

Overview:
   McCarron’s Trading Company of Menke facilitated the latest Liao refit of the Grasshopper sometime in 3053 after reaching an accommodation with the battered Lantren Corporation of Bryant. Obtaining a license to refit the mobile heavy ‘Mech was merely step one in a plan to modernize for the Confederation using available technologies. Building on its hardy nature Capellan designers used a limited amount of lostech items to enhance its capabilities to the utmost. The effort done under the auspices of the Chancellor also bought in corporate assistance from Ceres Metals, StarCorps Industries, and Aldis Industries. Simple and effective the 5L delivers on its goal to optimize the Grasshopper to its optimal operational capacity.

Capabilities:
Building on the highly durable Mingh z33/7 standard chassis the 5L retains the extremely reliable 280 VOX Fusion Engine to form one of the toughest BattleMech cores in existence. Already renowned for taking a licking and keeps on ticking this Grasshopper simply builds off of what works. Superb mobility for a Heavy ‘Mech is also retained thanks to four leg mounted Leviathan Lifters which can carry the seventy-ton war machine up to one hundred and twenty meters in the air. The first planned significant design upgrade was made to the weaponry which saw the replacement of two side torso mounted medium lasers with two Diplan HD Heavy Lasers. Now armed with three of these big lasers in its core region the 5L can deliver more punishment at medium to long range than its predecessor. The original head mounted LRM-5 was also replaced by a third Diplan M3 Medium Laser mounted in the head. Along with the two arm mounted Mediums that remained unaltered this all-energy arsenal doesn’t require any reloading enabling independent operations. To handle the increased heat load from this laser array seventeen Double Heat Sinks replaced the obsolete twenty-two Single Heat Sinks from the original. Eleven Double Heat Sinks were mounted in the 280 Fusion Engine while the remaining six were incorporated in the BattleMech’s side torsos. Perhaps the principal change in the design was the replacement of thirteen tons of Durallex Heavy with twelve tons of Aldis Heavy Ferro-Fibrous. Difficult to come by for House Liao this advanced plating was in development for several Capellan armor assets at this time and not yet used on any of its larger BattleMechs. The advanced compound generates three percent of additional protection than heavier original and provides near maximum armor for the already tough Grasshopper. Not much else has changed in this inexpensive refit as even the original Allet electronic systems have been retained.

Deployment:
   First appearing in McCarron’s Armored Cavalry following the Battle of Sadurni as battlefield replacements the GHR-5L is already making a name for itself in the Third Marik Civil War. Other mercenaries traditionally in Liao service have also been slated to receive this ‘Mech for exceptional service to the State. This includes an irregular force known as the Green Banners which aids guerilla forces in the Sarna March. Liao House Regulars have not been forgotten by the Chancellor either as all Grasshoppers in the Confederation have been slated for this priority retrofit as soon as possible.

Type: Grasshopper
Technology Base: Inner Sphere - Level 2
Tonnage: 70

Equipment                        Mass
Internal Structure:                     7
Engine:            280            16
Walking MP:         4
Running MP:         6
Jumping MP:         4
Heat Sinks:            17 (34)            7
Gyro:                           3
Cockpit:                            3
Armor Factor:            216             12

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

Weapons and Ammo      Location      Critical   Tonnage
Large Laser          Center Torso      2      5
Large Laser          Right Torso      2      5
Large Laser          Left Torso      2      5
Medium Laser         Head         1      1
Medium Laser         Right Arm      1      1
Medium Laser         Left Arm      1      1
2 Jump Jets         Right Leg      2      2
2 Jump Jets         Left Leg      2      2

Bradshaw · « **Reply #2 on:** June 21, 2021, 10:16:44 AM »

The product of an up and coming industry called Magnus Industries located on Outreach. Concentrating primarily on the customization of privately or mercenary owned designs for the previous few years. Magnus has become known for the upgrading and customization of many Grasshoppers that have impressed enough investors to allow the company to make massive improvements to their repair and refit facilities. So much so that they have begun the groundwork for their own full production facility due to be constructed within the next 2 years. Whether Magnus decides to continue with a full production variant of the Grasshopper or another design they have extensive knowledge of many of the more common designs with their years of customization options. Its too early to tell if this knowledge will carry over to designing their own unique design or if they will stick with what they know and purchasing licensing rights to other existing designs.

The 5M is a remarkable improvement of the old 5H design. Utilizing just a small amount of lostech to make the design a large improvement over its traditional design. Removing its rather paltry long range missile system the design has an eye toward making the Grasshopper independent of supply concerns. Bolstering its single Diplan Large Laser with an additional for medium range fire support. The 4 Diplan Medium lasers remain though they have been moved to new locations allowing the design to fire in melee range and still allow the design to punch their opponents if so chosen. The true improvements though lie in the lostech improvements. The most time consuming and costly is the inclusion of Defiance Accelerator Myomer Accelerator Signal Circuitry purchased from Defiance on Hesperus. This allows the Heavy design to flee larger opponents and charge towards lighter ones in its role as a scout killer. The inclusion of a Garret-Guardian Interface 2B Guardian ECM allows the design to ambush opponents and has proven extremely effective in allowing the design to approach targets unnoticed. Lastly the design incorporates technology most often seen on vehicles in the way of its Remote Sensor dispensers which allow the design to monitor a wide area in which to hunt opponents or give advanced notice for compatriots in the field.

Grasshopper GHR-5M

Introduction Year: 3052
Cost: 8,610,273 C-bills
Battle Value: 1,850

Code: [Select]

Mass: 70 tons
Chassis: Mingh z33/7
Power Plant: VOX 280
Cruising Speed: 43.2 kph
Maximum Speed: 86.4 kph
Jump Jets: Lexington Lifters
     Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Maximillian 100
Armament:
     2 Diplan HD Large Laser
     4 Diplan M3 Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: Lantren Corporation
     Primary Factory: Magnus Industries Refit Yard Outreach
Communication System: Allet-C308
Targeting & Tracking System: Allet T-11

Equipment                                          Mass
Internal Structure                                    7
Engine                        280 Fusion             16
	Walking MP: 4
	Running MP: 6(8)
	Jumping MP: 4
Double Heat Sink              13 [26]                 3
Gyro                                                  3
Cockpit                                               3
Armor Factor                  216                  13.5

                          Internal   Armor   
                          Structure  Value   
     Head                    3         9     
     Center Torso            22        33    
     Center Torso (rear)               10    
     R/L Torso               15        23    
     R/L Torso (rear)                  7     
     R/L Arm                 11        22    
     R/L Leg                 15        30    

Weapons                   Location  Critical   Heat    Tonnage	
Large Laser                   RT        2        8       5.0   
Large Laser                   LT        2        8       5.0   
2 Medium Laser                CT        2        3       2.0   
2 Medium Laser                LA        2        3       2.0   
ECM Suite                     LT        2        -       1.5   
MASC                          RT        4        -       4.0   
Remote Sensors/Dispenser      RT        1        -       0.5   
Remote Sensors/Dispenser      LT        1        -       0.5   
2 Jump Jet                    RL        2        -       2.0   
2 Jump Jet                    LL        2        -       2.0   
Double Heat Sink              LT        3        -       1.0   
Double Heat Sink              RT        3        -       1.0

Bradshaw · « **Reply #3 on:** June 21, 2021, 10:44:58 AM »

An urban refit of the Grasshopper seen in small numbers around the Federated Commonwealth the 5S utilizes the size and maneuverability of the design as a linchpin for urban defenders and assault lances. With token long range firepower in its upgrade to an extended range large laser its features shine brightly in the condensed and chaotic urban battlefield. With its quad battery of medium pulse lasers and twin medium lasers opponents that are surprised while turning corners in the city are assaulted by a withering battery of lasers. Bolstered both with a Guardian ECM and Beagle Active Probe the design it able to track targets and remain hidden while doing so. With such narrow confines the design is outfitted as well with a TAG allowing homing artillery support to minimize damage upon soft targets while assisting in taking out hard ones.

Grasshopper GHR-5S

Introduction Year: 3051
Cost: 7,241,773 C-bills
Battle Value: 1,652

Code: [Select]


Mass: 70 tons
Chassis: Standard Biped
Power Plant: 280 Fusion
Cruising Speed: 43.2 kph
Maximum Speed: 64.8 kph
Jump Jets: Standard
     Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Standard
Armament:
     1 ER Large Laser
     4 Medium Pulse Laser
     2 Medium Laser
     1 TAG
Manufacturer: Unknown
     Primary Factory: Unknown
Communication System: Unknown
Targeting & Tracking System: Unknown

Equipment                                          Mass
Internal Structure                                    7
Engine                        280 Fusion             16
	Walking MP: 4
	Running MP: 6
	Jumping MP: 4
Double Heat Sink              15 [30]                 5
Gyro                                                  3
Cockpit                                               3
Armor Factor                  208                    13

                          Internal   Armor   
                          Structure  Value   
     Head                    3         9     
     Center Torso            22        30    
     Center Torso (rear)               13    
     R/L Torso               15        20    
     R/L Torso (rear)                  10    
     R/L Arm                 11        22    
     R/L Leg                 15        26    

Weapons               Location  Critical   Heat    Tonnage	
ER Large Laser            CT        2        12      5.0   
2 Medium Pulse Laser      RT        2        4       4.0   
2 Medium Pulse Laser      LT        2        4       4.0   
Medium Laser              LA        1        3       1.0   
Medium Laser              RA        1        3       1.0   
TAG                       HD        1        0       1.0   
Active Probe              LT        2        -       1.5   
ECM Suite                 RT        2        -       1.5   
2 Double Heat Sink        RT        6        -       2.0   
2 Double Heat Sink        LT        6        -       2.0   
2 Jump Jet                RL        2        -       2.0   
2 Jump Jet                LL        2        -       2.0

Bradshaw · « **Reply #4 on:** June 21, 2021, 11:05:52 AM »

A unique variant piloted by Kwai Lin formerly of the Warrior House Kamata. Kwan Lin was forced to seek asylum from the Capellan Confederation after falling in love with a AFFC technician named Thomas Henry Caine. The Grasshopper has been modified by her husband and bares a striking resemblance to the 5L variant from McCarrons Armored Calvary. Whether this similarity is circumstance or due to espionage is anyones guess. Though it is noted both MI5 and Death Commandos have been reported monitoring this happy couple. It is believed that both are agents or former agents that are still in contact with their home realms and hence the location of Solaris for this couple instead of eithers home nation. The Caine variant is deadly in the Solaris Arena and the pilot is already on an impressive undefeated streak in the lower ranked games. If the design continues to impress who knows if this design may be produced by either the Capellans or Federated Commonwealth in the future.

Grasshopper Caine

Introduction Year: 3050
Cost: 8,151,273 C-bills
Battle Value: 1,857

Code: [Select]

Mass: 70 tons
Cruising Speed: 43.2 kph
Maximum Speed: 64.8 kph
Jump Jets: Standard
     Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Standard
Armament:
     3 Large Laser
     1 SRM 4 (OS)

Equipment                                          Mass
Internal Structure                                    7
Engine                        280 Fusion             16
	Walking MP: 4
	Running MP: 6
	Jumping MP: 4
Double Heat Sink              10 [20]                 0
Gyro                                                  3
Cockpit                                               3
Armor Factor                  208                    13

                          Internal   Armor   
                          Structure  Value   
     Head                    3         9     
     Center Torso            22        30    
     Center Torso (rear)               13    
     R/L Torso               15        20    
     R/L Torso (rear)                  10    
     R/L Arm                 11        22    
     R/L Leg                 15        26    

Weapons                   Location  Critical   Heat    Tonnage	
Hatchet                       RA        5        -       5.0   
Large Laser                   CT        2        8       5.0   
Large Laser                   RT        2        8       5.0   
Large Laser                   LT        2        8       5.0   
SRM 4                         HD        1        3       2.5   
ECM Suite                     RT        2        -       1.5   
2 Jump Jet                    RL        2        -       2.0   
2 Jump Jet                    LL        2        -       2.0   
Triple Strength Myomer    RT/LT/RA/LA 2/2/1/1    -       0.0

lrose · « **Reply #5 on:** June 21, 2021, 11:57:41 AM »

The Grasshopper has long been a favorite mech of the TDF. Featuring exceptional mobility for a heavy mech, the Grasshopper has also developed a reputation for being very hard to kill. It's combination of very heavy armor, mobility, firepower and the ability to sustain that firepower make the mech hard to stop. One of the few complaints about the mech is the presence of the LRM launcher, or more precisely its ammo bay which was vulnerable to ammo explosions. For this reason many of the Taurian Grasshoppers were converted to the -5N variant which removed the LRM and Diplan HD Laser and replaced them with a PPC and an additional medium laser.

With the recovery of lost Star League technology the TDF began to look into ways to improve many of their mechs, including the Grasshopper. Some of the initial ideas called for reducing the number of heatsinks and using the weight savings to add more weapons. The loss of so many heatsinks would be offset by the use of double strength models. Unfortunately the added weapons overtaxed the revised cooling system and the results were poorer then expected.

A number of other variants were tested and all were found to be lacking. It was not until Vandenberg Mechanized Industries demonstrated their GHR-5T that the TDF finally found an acceptable upgrade. The VMI proposal called for the improvement of the mech's speed, allowing the Grasshopper to quickly close with opponents. The old Vox 280 engine was removed and replaced with the newly developed Vox 350. The Vox 350 is an upgrade version of the 280 that is produced by VMI. Weighing nearly twice as much as the old 280, the use of the Vox 350 required the removal of half of the Grasshopper's heatsinks. However through the use of double strength models, the cooling system is about equal to that of the GHR-5H. Also removed to free uo the necessary mass for the new engine was the unloved LRM system and 1.5 tons of armor. By switching to an advanced Ferro-Fibrous compound, the armor protection has remained almost the same. The final change was to replace the Leviathan Lifters jump jets with the newly developed Rawlings 60, which is nothing more then a direct copy of the Leciathan Lifters built by VMI.

The refit proved so popular and successful that VMI began looking at the possibility of putting the Grasshopper into production at their Pinard plant. Taking advantage of the fact that these would be newly built designs, rather the refits, VMI looked at other more complicated modifications to the mech. Eschewing the costly and vulnerable XL engine, the VMI team instead decided to replace the old chassis with an Endo Steel one. While Endo steel is still fairly rare in the Concordat, enough is produced to supply VMI with the limited amount it needs for the Grashopper production line.

The mass saved from using the lighter chassis allows the replacement of the Diplan HD Laser wit a Magna Hellstar PPC. This provides the Grasshopper with a stronger long ranch punch that can be used while the Grasshopper is advancing. Other changes include the addition of 1 Heatsink and a half ton of armor.

The new Grasshopper has proven very popular due to it's increased, earning the nickname of "Fasthopper".

Model GHR-5T
Mass: 70 tons
Chassis: Mingh z33/7
Power Plant: Vox 350
Cruising Speed: 55.6 kph
Maximum Speed: 83.5 kph
Jump Jets: Rawlings 60
Jump Capacity: 150 meters
Armor: Durallex Heavy Ferro-Fibrous Armor
Armament:
1 Diplan HD Large Laser
4 Diplan M3 Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: Vandenberg Mechanized Industries (Refit)
Primary Factories: Pinard
Communications System: Allet-C308
Targeting and Tracking System: Allet-T11

Type: GHR-5T
Technology Base: Inner Sphere
Tonnage: 70 tons

Equipment: Mass
Internal Structure 7
Engine 350 29.5
Walking MP: 5
Running MP: 8
Jumping MP: 5
Heatsinks 11 (22) 1
Gyro 4
Cockpit 3
Armor Factor 206 11.5
IS Armor
Head 3 9
CT 22 30/13
R/L Torso 15 20/10
R/L Arm 11 21
R/L Leg 15 26

Weapons & Ammo Location Critical Tonnage
Large Laser RT 2 5
Medium Laser RA 1 1
Medium Laser LA 1 1
Medium Laser CT 1 1
Medium Laser LT 1 1
Jump Jet CT 1 1
Jump Jets RT 2 2
Jump Jets LT 2 2

Model GHR-5TE1
Mass: 70 tons
Chassis: VMI Hopper Special
Power Plant: Vox 350
Cruising Speed: 55.6 kph
Maximum Speed: 83.5 kph
Jump Jets: Rawlings 60
Jump Capacity: 150 meters
Armor: Durallex Heavy Ferro-Fibrous Armor
Armament:
1 Magna Hellstar PPC
4 Diplan M3 Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: Vandenberg Mechanized Industries
Primary Factories: Pinard
Communications System: O/P 3000 COMSET
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 1500 ARB

Type: GHR-5T
Technology Base: Inner Sphere
Tonnage: 70 tons

Equipment: Mass
Internal Structure Endo 3.5
Engine 350 29.5
Walking MP: 5
Running MP: 8
Jumping MP: 5
Heatsinks 12 (24) 2
Gyro 4
Cockpit 3
Armor Factor 215 12
IS Armor
Head 3 9
CT 22 31/13
R/L Torso 15 20/10
R/L Arm 11 21
R/L Leg 15 29

Weapons & Ammo Location Critical Tonnage
PPC RT 3 7
Medium Laser RA 1 1
Medium Laser LA 1 1
Medium Laser CT 1 1
Medium Laser LT 1 1
Jump Jet CT 1 1
Jump Jets RT 2 2
Jump Jets LT 2 2

masterarminas · « **Reply #6 on:** June 21, 2021, 03:17:22 PM »

GHR-6W Grasshopper

In 3053, Blackwell Corporation of Outreach announced the introduction of a new variant of the GHR-5H Grasshopper. This variant (designated as the GHR-6W) incorporated advanced Star League technology to make the design more useful during the Clan Invasion Crisis.

Blackwell (acting upon the advice of Wolf's Dragoons combat officers) began the refit project by removing the center torso mounted Diplan Large Laser and the left torso mounted Diplan M3 Medium Laser; the remaining three Diplan M3 Medium Lasers were retained, but the right torso laser was relocated to the center torso.

Eighteen double strength heat sinks replaced the twenty-two standard models of the GHR-5H, greatly increasing heat dissipation abiltiies. Armor protection (already superb), the Conan/S LRM-5 (and ammunition), movement, and jump capability remained the same as the GHR-5H.

With ten tons available, the Blackwell design team then added two Diverse Optics Sunbeam ER Large Lasers (right torso and left torso), boosting the range at which the Grasshopper can engage its targets and increasing overall damage output.

The final result was a 'Mech just as well armored, just as mobile, but better able to engage targets beyond short range with higher damage potential while having lower excess overheat production.

Blackwell is unable to produce new GHR-6W Grasshoppers (so far, at least), but have introduced a refit program for interested parties, both House Military Commands and private owners (including mercenary units).

As of 3053, all Grasshoppers within Wolf's Dragoons have been refitted to the GHR-6W standard, with the Northwind Highlanders next in line to receive the new variant as Blackwell completes their individual refits at its Outreach facility.

Further refits are available starting in 3054, although there is already an extensive waiting list according to anonymous sources on Outreach.

To date, only Wolf's Dragoons and the Northwind Highlanders have fielded the GHR-6W (and GHR-6W2) in combat operations. In all instances, it has performed well and experienced few of the glitches and minor malfunctions common on most new 'Mech variants.

One variant (the GHR-6W2) has been spotted in limited numbers. This model replaces the Conan/S LRM-5 launcher and ammunition with a Harpoon SRM-4 and one ton of ammunition.

Although this variant runs slightly hotter, it is capable of dealing greater damage to hostile forces while retaining virtually the same combat endurance on the battlefield.

Roughly one-in-three of all refitted Grasshoppers belonging to Wolf's Dragoons are the -6W2 model.

Code: [Select]

Grasshopper GHR-6W

Mass: 70 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: 3053
Dry Cost: 6,558,373 C-Bills
Total Cost: 6,588,373 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,642

Chassis: Mingh 33/7 Standard
Power Plant: VOX 280 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: Lexington Lifters
    Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Durallex Heavy Standard Armor
Armament:
    2 Diverse Optics Sunbeam ER Large Lasers
    3 Diplan M3 Medium Lasers
    1 Conan/S LRM-5
Manufacturer: Blackwell Corporation (Refit Only)
    Primary Factory: Outreach
Communications System: Allet-C308
Targeting and Tracking System: Allet-T11

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                     107 points                7.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                280                      16.00
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 4 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LL, 2 RL                                         4.00
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             18(36)                    8.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 3 LT, 2 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 - 208                 13.00

                                                      Internal       Armor      
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     22           30        
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  13        
                                           L/R Torso     15           20        
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  10        
                                             L/R Arm     11           22        
                                             L/R Leg     15           26        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Laser                                 RA        3         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
ER Large Laser                               RT        12        2         5.00
ER Large Laser                               LT        12        2         5.00
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
LRM-5                                        HD        2         1         2.00
@LRM-5 (24)                                  RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 13

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 16
4j         4       4       2       0      3     0   Structure:  6
Special Abilities: SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Code: [Select]

Grasshopper GHR-6W2

Mass: 70 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: 3053
Dry Cost: 6,609,373 C-Bills
Total Cost: 6,636,373 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,632

Chassis: Mingh 33/7 Standard
Power Plant: VOX 280 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: Lexington Lifters
    Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Durallex Heavy Standard Armor
Armament:
    2 Diverse Optics Sunbeam ER Large Lasers
    3 Diplan M3 Medium Lasers
    1  SRM-4
Manufacturer: Blackwell Corporation (Refit Only)
    Primary Factory: Outreach
Communications System: Allet-C308
Targeting and Tracking System: Allet-T11

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                     107 points                7.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                280                      16.00
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 4 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LL, 2 RL                                         4.00
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             18(36)                    8.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 3 LT, 2 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 - 208                 13.00

                                                      Internal       Armor      
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     22           30        
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  13        
                                           L/R Torso     15           20        
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  10        
                                             L/R Arm     11           22        
                                             L/R Leg     15           26        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Laser                                 RA        3         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
ER Large Laser                               RT        12        2         5.00
ER Large Laser                               LT        12        2         5.00
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
SRM-4                                        HD        3         1         2.00
@SRM-4 (25)                                  RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 13

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 16
4j         4       4       2       0      3     0   Structure:  6
Special Abilities: SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

masterarminas · « **Reply #7 on:** June 21, 2021, 03:22:11 PM »

GHR-6D Grasshopper

The Federated Suns has instituted its own program to refit and overhaul Grasshoppers in service with the AFFS (and to a lesser extent, the AFFC). Proposed by Achernar BattleMechs of New Avalon, this model was personally approved by Hanse Davion for refit and field combat testing and has (so far) performed exceptionally well.

Archernar began by reducing the 22 standard heat sinks of the GHR-5H to just thirteen . . . but in this case, all thirteen are Double Strength Freezers!

The Conan/S LRM-5 and ammunition was removed.

All four Diplan M3 Medium Lasers were retained with one moved from the right arm to the head, while the Diplan HD Large Laser was replaced with a Martell ER Large Laser.

Having twelve tons remaining, the design team next added a General Motors Nova-5 Ultra AC-5 Autocannon to the right arm, along with three tons of ammunition (for a massive combat endurance of 60 single or 30 tandem bursts!). CASE was installed in the right torso and the 13.0 tons of Durallex Heavy armor were replaced with 12.5 tons of Durallex Heavy Special with CASE Ferro-Fibrous armor plating for the absolute maximum protection on a 70-ton bipedal BattleMech!

While the overall average weapons damage has only slightly increased, combat endurance has been greatly extended (in both single-shot mode and double-tap mode) and this variant is just as cool running as the GHR-5H Grasshopper, generating the same amount of excess overheat on a jumping Alpha Strike (with
double-tap).

The substitution of the Conan/S LRM-5 with the General Motors Nova-5 Ultra AC-5 has cost some engagement range, but the loss is minimal . . . and damage is now more consistent with the potential (on a successful double-tap) of being greater. When combined with the increase in range of the Martell ER Large Laser and the large ammunition supply, the AFFS feels that this latest version of the Grasshopper makes a superb combat unit for operating on raids behind enemy lines as well as special operations to conduct guerrilla warfare on a long-term basis on enemy occupied worlds.

Code: [Select]

Grasshopper GHR-6D

Mass: 70 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: 3053
Dry Cost: 6,813,373 C-Bills
Total Cost: 6,840,373 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,665

Chassis: Mingh 33/7 Standard
Power Plant: VOX 280 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: Lexington Lifters
    Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Durallex Heavy Special with CASE Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
    1 Martell ER Large Laser
    1 General Motors Nova-5 Ultra AC/5
    4 Diplan M3 Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: Archernar BattleMechs (Refit Only)
    Primary Factory: New Avalon
Communications System: Allet-C308
Targeting and Tracking System: Allet-T11

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                     107 points                7.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                280                      16.00
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 4 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LL, 2 RL                                         4.00
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             13(26)                    3.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               3.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 216                 12.50
    Armor Locations: 4 LT, 4 RT, 6 LA
    CASE Locations: 1 RT                                                   0.50

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

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ultra AC/5                                   RA        1         5         9.00
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 RT        3         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 LT        3         1         1.00
ER Large Laser                               CT        12        2         5.00
Medium Laser                                 HD        3         1         1.00
@Ultra AC/5 (60)                             RA        -         3         3.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 8

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 17
4j         4       4       2       0      3     0   Structure:  6
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

masterarminas · « **Reply #8 on:** June 21, 2021, 03:47:27 PM »

GHR-6T Grasshopper

Vandenberg Mechanized Industries of New Vandenberg (in the Taurian Concordat) has begun a program of refit and refurbishment for existing GHR-5H Grasshopper BattleMechs. Long a favorite of TDF MechWarriors (although not produced in the Concordat), the Grasshopper has always been regarded as a highly capable and rugged 'Mech, although damage output was considered a little light for a 'Mech of its weight class. However, the Grasshopper had more than enough heat sinks to allow it to constantly utilize what firepower it had for as long as the MechWarrior needed.

The new GHR-6T takes high bar and raises it even more. VMI began by removing all twenty-two of the standard heat sinks and replacing them with fourteen double-strength models. Next, the Durallex Heavy armor plating was replaced with 12.0 tons of Durallex Heavy Special ferro-fibrous plating. Two of the four Diplan M3 Medium Lasers were removed (one of which was then moved from the right arm to the center torso), but the Conan/S LRM-5 launcher and ammunition were retained, although CASE was added to the right torso ammunition bin.

The Diplan HD Large Laser formerly mounted in the center torso was then moved to the right arm and two additional Diplan HD Large Lasers added to the chassis (right torso and left torso). Finally, a Diverse Optics Type 10 Small Laser was mounted in the center torso beneath the Diplan M3.

At long range, the GHR-6T has enough heat dissipation to fire all three Large Lasers and the LRM-5 while running and remain heat neutral. In close, the MechWarrior can fire two Large Lasers, both Medium Lasers, and the Small Laser and remain heat neutral on a jump. Even using all six lasers results in only moderate excess overheat production that any trained and experienced MechWarrior should be able to handle.

Maximum damage output has increased by more than 20% and the medium-range engagement bracket has been expanded.

The TDF is justifiably proud of their new Grasshopper and there are rumors that VMI may soon be attempting to start actual production at a new facility being constructed on New Vandenberg

Code: [Select]

Grasshopper GHR-6T

Mass: 70 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: 3053
Dry Cost: 6,570,698 C-Bills
Total Cost: 6,600,698 C-Bills
Battle Value: 1,652

Chassis: Mingh 33/7 Standard
Power Plant: VOX 280 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 43.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 64.8 km/h
Jump Jets: Lexington Lifters
    Jump Capacity: 120 meters
Armor: Durallex Heavy Special Ferro-Fibrous w/ CASE
Armament:
    3 Diplan HD Large Lasers
    2 Diplan M3 Medium Lasers
    1 Conan/S LRM-5
    1  Small Laser
Manufacturer: Vandenberg Mechanized Industries (Refit Only)
    Primary Factory: New Vandenberg
Communications System: Allet-C308
Targeting and Tracking System: Allet-T11

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                     107 points                7.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                280                      16.00
    Walking MP: 4
    Running MP: 6
    Jumping MP: 4 Standard
    Jump Jet Locations: 2 LL, 2 RL                                         4.00
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             14(28)                    4.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 2 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               3.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA+LA+H    R: SH+UA+LA+H
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV - 215                 12.00
    Armor Locations: 4 LT, 2 RT, 4 LA, 4 RA
    CASE Locations: 1 RT                                                   0.50

                                                      Internal       Armor      
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     22           32        
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  10        
                                           L/R Torso     15           22        
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  8         
                                             L/R Arm     11           22        
                                             L/R Leg     15           30        

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass  
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Large Laser                                  RA        8         2         5.00
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
Large Laser                                  RT        8         2         5.00
Large Laser                                  LT        8         2         5.00
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
Small Laser                                  CT        1         1         0.50
LRM-5                                        HD        2         1         2.00
@LRM-5 (24)                                  RT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 8

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      7    Points: 17
4j         4       4       1       0      3     0   Structure:  6
Special Abilities: CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Takiro · « **Reply #9 on:** June 21, 2021, 06:10:35 PM »

Well we've certainly kicked it off here today! Nice entries Bradshaw, Irose, and masterarminas.

Ice Hellion · « **Reply #10 on:** June 22, 2021, 05:09:05 PM »

Quote from: Takiro on June 21, 2021, 06:10:35 PM

Well we've certainly kicked it off here today! Nice entries Bradshaw, Irose, and masterarminas.

Who would have thought that the Grashopper would be the center of so much attention?

lrose · « **Reply #11 on:** June 22, 2021, 06:01:54 PM »

The Grasshopper is fantastic. One of the 2 best heavy mechs from tr3025 ( the other being the Thunderbolt). I’d take it over a Warhammer or Marauder any day

Takiro · « **Reply #12 on:** June 22, 2021, 06:45:08 PM »

Curious Irose, why do you like it so much?

lrose · « **Reply #13 on:** June 22, 2021, 07:02:53 PM »

There are a lot of reasons. It has heavy armor, good mobility, the weapons are only fair for its mass but it can keep up a high rate of fire and it is nearly a zombie mech only the lrm has an ammo dependence. Given the choice I would take the -5n over the -5h. The ppc combined with the removal of the lrm is a real winner for, even if heat starts to become a slight problem.

fabulousorcboy · « **Reply #14 on:** June 23, 2021, 06:40:28 AM »

Although it's a great 3025 'Mech, the Grasshopper really suffers once advanced tech is available. So here's one variation that fits in with the Combine's needs, while also matching their reluctance to use a perfectly solid 'Mech that does basically the same thing. I reworked the design a bit to include a C3 slave unit, making this Grasshopper extremely useful as a mobile fire-support 'Mech for the Combine.

Type: GHR-5K Grasshopper
Production: Draconis Combine (LexaTech Industries, Hun Ho)
Combat Value: 1742 BV, 1544 (AC-20)
Total Cost: 6,817,674 C-Bills (including x1.7 tonnage premium)

Internal Struc (std):7t
Engine: (VOX 280): 16t
Walking: 4
Running: 6
Jumping: 4 4t
Heat Sinks: 10(20): 0t
Gyro/Cockpit (Std): 6t
Armor Factor (Ferro): 11.5t (207 pips)

Head 3/9
Center Torso 22/30/12
R/L Torso 15/20/10
R/L Arm 11/22
R/L Leg 15/26

Quirks: Rugged (1)

Grasshopper GHR-5K
1x Gauss Rifle (7cr, 15t) RA
2x Ammo (Gauss) 16 (2cr, 2t) RT
2x SRM-4 (2cr, 4t) CT
1x Ammo (SRM) 25 (1cr, 1t) RT
1x CASE (1cr, 0.5t) RT
1x C3 Slave (1cr, 1t) H
2x Medium Lasers (2cr, 2t) LA/LT

Grasshopper GHR-5KA
1x AC 20 (10cr, 14t) RA
3x Ammo (AC) 15 (3cr, 3t) RT
2x LRM-5 (2cr, 4t) CT
1x Ammo (LRM) 24 (1cr, 1t) LT
1x CASE (1cr, 0.5t) RT
1x C3 Slave (1cr, 1t) H
2x Medium Lasers (2cr, 2t) LA/LT

An unorthodox ‘Mech when it was first released after the Amaris Civil War, the Grasshopper became popular during the Succession Wars for its all-energy armament, giving it tremendous endurance and freeing it from supply line constraints, as well as its 120-meter jump capability, its thirteen tons of armored protection, and its hefty twenty-two heat sinking capacity.

However, although the design remained popular, new production slowed tremendously when Lantren Corporation of Bryant, the primary manufacturer, was destroyed during the Second Succession War. By the early 31st century, only LexaTech Industries on Hun Ho was still manufacturing the Grasshopper, in only very limited numbers, although a number of smaller refit and repair facilities, such as the Eire Battlemech Company of Arc-Royal, were capable of patching together rebuilt ‘Mechs using salvaged battlefield components.

While LexaTech had been working on creating updated lostech designs in the late 3040s, the Clan Invasion increased pressure on the company, particularly after the loss of their Irece LAM facility in 3051. Known primarily as a Stinger and Grasshopper manufacturer at this point, LexaTech quietly released an upgraded GHR-5K in 3052 that incorporated a large number of the recovered Star League era technologies that they had been working on for some years.

The 5K retains the Mingh z33/7 chassis and leg-mounted Lexington Lifters, powered by a VOX 280 engine, and with Allet-C308 comms and Allet T-11 targeting systems. In order to speed up the development of their upgraded Grasshopper, the changes to the 5K were primarily to its armaments and armor, featuring eleven and a half tons of Aldis “Heavy” Ferro-Fibrous armor, offering nearly identical protection as the thirteen tons of classic Maximillian 100 on the Grasshopper 5H. CASE protection for the right side torso has been incorporated as well, and twelve tons of heat sinks were stripped out with all cooling systems replaced by a set of double heat sinks, fully integrated into the fusion engine.

Although it retains two of the original’s Diplan M3 medium lasers (in the left arm and torso), the other weapons systems were stripped out to incorporate a massive Grizzard Model 200 Gauss Rifle in the right arm, and a pair of Telos-4 SRM launchers – produced by Marduk’s Victory Industries – in the center torso’s former Large Laser housing. This last was in response to centuries of pilot feedback to the head-mounted missile launcher, which was notorious for vigorously shaking the cockpit whenever missiles were launched. The decision to replace the large lasers of the 5H with an ammo-dependent weapon was puzzling to observers, although the Grizzard certainly was an impressive main weapon -- but in hindsight, it was clear that LexaTech was using their Grasshopper chassis to test and showcase their new Gauss Rifles. At the request of the DCMS, the vacated housing in the head of the 'Mech was used to fit a Tanadi Citizen C3 Slave unit, wired into the legacy Allet comms and targeting systems.

The final design looks quite similar to the Victor VTR-9K produced by Independence Weaponry, but has slightly improved armor and firepower, can slot easily into the Combine's new C3 companies, and most importantly is not strongly associated with the Federated Suns. As a result, the 5K has been embraced by the DCMS, and is being distributed to Combine regiments who were leery of using a “Davion” design. Due to intense interest, LexaTech released a variant in early 3053 featuring a Scarborough Original 20 Autocannon – produced by Scarborough Manufacturers of Al Na’ir – in place of the Gauss Rifle, with three tons of ammunition. For the 5KA, the center-torso SRMs are swapped out for a pair of surplus Conan/S LRM-5 launchers to provide a little long-range fire support -- a modification popular enough that some base 5Ks are being retrofitted in such a fashion, swapping out the Telos-4s for more long-range fire support. Although still being produced in very modest numbers, this AC-20 variant is also proving to be quite popular with the Dragon’s warriors.

For LexaTech, the Grasshopper upgrade was an overwhelming success, and ultimately provided the critical funding and production experience necessary to work out the final kinks on their novel Cerberus design, a double Gauss assault 'Mech that eventually saw release in 3054.

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Author Topic: Optimizing the Grasshopper (Read 17008 times)

Takiro

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Takiro

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Bradshaw

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Bradshaw

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Bradshaw

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lrose

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masterarminas

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masterarminas

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masterarminas

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Takiro

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Ice Hellion

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lrose

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Takiro

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lrose

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fabulousorcboy

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