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Author Topic: Optimizing the Locust!  (Read 61187 times)

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Takiro

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Optimizing the Locust!
« on: June 11, 2019, 08:12:41 PM »
As my final Clan OmniMech is currently undergoing its final reviews I wanted to throw open a new challenge for the InnerSphere which like Quicksilver will revise all designs for peak performance. First up is the Locust but before we begin on this early 3050 refit project what would my favorite designers like to see?

I'll be adding a few more thoughts here as this is very much a work in progress. So, while I welcome your Locust design submissions please think about and comment on these thoughts...

The tech base for this enterprise will be InnerSphere Level 2, also known as Star League lostech, circa 3053. Here is a list for your design reference. Let me know if there is any thing 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

Don't forget about 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. I've also become a fan of massed LRM-5s over the larger batteries (Free Worlds League in particular has gone in this direction) which could provide closer equivalents to Clan LRMs.

Do your research (think Objective Raids) for available components as this will be another factor in rapid production.

Of course I still love fluff and your designs will be featured in my BattleTech Salient Horizon alternate setting. While we will be focusing on the InnerSphere and their efforts to defeat the Clans by matching as best we can their equipment performance don't forget the Periphery. High tech efforts by a rebuilding ComGuard following Tukayyid or their erstwhile brethren the Word of Blake could be your angle. Then you have different Great Houses and their significant Regions or Worlds concentrating on fortifying their militaries ranging from line troops to militia. There are also Corporate concerns which could come into play or lets not forget our favorite mercenaries.

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.

Set Criteria for this Challenge
Design: Locust Light BattleMech
Era: 3052, just following the Truce of Tukayyid
Tech: InnerSphere Level 2
Mass: 20 tons
Cockpit: (3 tons)

What sort of time frame would you guys like to see for these contests?

Here is the Mech of the Week Article from the big boards to get your juices following on this first masterpiece.
https://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php/topic,36791.0.html
« Last Edit: June 16, 2019, 08:45:03 AM by Takiro »
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Bradshaw

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #1 on: June 14, 2019, 09:37:38 AM »
As I said when we spoke about this I think this is challenging as some designs are made by multiple houses so need to be careful about how many each house gets upgraded.

Personally after looking at all the options I really like the 3D variant its perfect for harrassing.

But if I was to create a variant for a fixed role it would be this, based off the 3D frame. I'll come up with fluff next week when I have time.

Locust LCT-4D
Code: [Select]

Base Tech Level: Standard (IS)

Weight: 20 tons
BV: 478
Cost: 2,093,500 C-bills
Source: Clan Invasion

Movement: 8/12
Engine: 160
Heat Sinks: 10
Gyro: Standard Gyro

Internal: 33 (Endo-Steel)
Armor: 44/69 (Ferro-Fibrous)
                     Internal  Armor   
----------------------------------------
Head                        3      7   
Center Torso                6      5   
Center Torso (rear)                2   
Right Torso                 5      5   
Right Torso (rear)                 1   
Left Torso                  5      5   
Left Torso (rear)                  1   
Right Arm                   3      4   
Left Arm                    3      4   
Right Leg                   4      5   
Left Leg                    4      5   

Weapons       Loc  Heat 
-------------------------
TAG            CT    0   
Small Laser    HD    1   
Medium Laser   CT    3   

Equipment              Loc 
----------------------------
Active Probe (Beagle)   RT 
ECM Suite (Guardian)    LT 



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Takiro

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #2 on: June 14, 2019, 04:02:45 PM »
Quote from: Bradshaw on June 14, 2019, 09:37:38 AM
As I said when we spoke about this I think this is challenging as some designs are made by multiple houses so need to be careful about how many each house gets upgraded.

I agree but there also the 3025 (Level 1) variants to guide us plus I feel we know each Houses tendencies as well. The Locust is a good example of this as there are 10 factories producing it as of 3054 according to FASA 1665 - Objective Raids. 6 are building the LCT-1Vs which are old school standard structure, 2 are FedCom model refits (LCT-3D and the LCT-3S) which use EndoSteel chassis, and 2 are LCT-3Ms (this time meaning Marik and not Missiles like the 3025 version) which definitely use EndoSteel. None use an XL Engine and take a look at my next post but I think you can do the most with that upgrade.

Quote from: Bradshaw on June 14, 2019, 09:37:38 AM
Personally after looking at all the options I really like the 3D variant its perfect for harrassing.

But if I was to create a variant for a fixed role it would be this, based off the 3D frame. I'll come up with fluff next week when I have time.

I agree but if I did a 4D it would features a LRMs and a TAG to create the most harassing light Mech you've ever seen raining missiles down from yonder. Does your model use an XL Engine? Just wondering where you got the weight for those electronics.
« Last Edit: June 15, 2019, 10:51:59 AM by Takiro »
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Takiro

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #3 on: June 14, 2019, 04:10:05 PM »
General Thoughts on the Locust Optimization

I was thinking about this one for a couple of days and I wanted to go down the list of what could be done here to present the best possible Locust or Locusts for our project. Please let me know what you think!

Internal Structure. The two-ton Bergan VII standard chassis which composes the core of the Locust isn't a major concern. Given the superior return on mass which Endosteel provides and the enormous amount of free criticals that a Light 'Mech can easily sacrifice such a high-tech upgrade makes sense. The Marik 3M went in this direction however it's only a ton so it's not absolutely vital. Cost wise such a move would quadruple base structure price from 8,000 C-bills to 32,000 C-bills.

Engine. While InnerSphere Extra-Light (XL) Fusion Plants draw a fair amount of design criticism for their increased fragility thanks to their bulkiness could it be a benefit for the Locust? This ubiquitous 20 ton Light Mech can never said to be well protected or survivable in combat due to its low max armor. Describing it as a 'one hit wonder' isn't far from the truth as a single well placed shot can often take a Locust down. Adding an expensive XL Engine would seem to be a poor investment on the surface but let's get a little counter intuitive. Rather than opponents simply pounding this thing to scrap the presence of an XL could disable these high tech Locusts just as fast as their lower tech brethren making desirable salvage. The higher tech Engine would almost double the overall cost of the Locust but this modification would make the most difference for our upgrades.

Jump Jets. While no significant technical advances have been made in mobility at this time I really don't see jump jets on the Locust. Frankly they weigh just too damn much - 4 tons for 8 MPs- and while such high flying maneuvering might be cool it's not a fit for me. I'd go with a heavier Light or Medium 'Mech for a Jumping scout. Also it just seems out of character for me as the Locust is born to run.

Heat Sinks. Because there isn't much room for weaponry and jump jets might be out we could save some money here by sticking with old single Heat Sinks. I guess it depends on how much you pack on here if you need Double Heat Sinks but just remember you'll have to place them all and a 160 rated Engine can only house 6 Heat Sinks. So 4 Double Heat Sinks will cost you an additional 12 critical spaces. Again you might not even need this high tech cooling system but I think this boils down to need. Expense and availability aren't really huge issues to me.

Cockpit & Gyro. Not much can be done here to improve the performance of the machine given the available level of technology. However, both components are plentiful and have proven to be reliable over time.

Armor. Staying with the old 4-ton armor plating isn’t a bad move either as going to Ferro-Fibrous doesn’t get you much. If you have 14 spare criticals lying around and still haven’t maxed out on armor protection then what the hell. I think EndoSteel is the better way to get weight for criticals though even though modifying existing models would be difficult. So Ferro-Fibrous would be easier to refit on existing machines but would provide much less in the way of an advantage IMO.

Weapons & Equipment. Every variant of the Locust appears to me as a super (ultra) light fighter rather than a recon model. Now Level 1 equipment really can't underscore or augment it's scouting capabilities outside fluff but our Level 2 certainly can. I am hard pressed however to find any of this lostech adding to the Locust as a forward element. There are plenty of new advanced components from a TAG, a Beagle Active Probe, a Guardian ECM, a NARC Launcher, a C3 Computer that could all do just that.
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drakensis

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #4 on: June 15, 2019, 02:23:01 AM »
Most of the above logic makes sense, but with such a light Mech there's more than enough critical space for endosteel and ferrofibrous, while the cost of ferro is fairly minimal (under 50k) and if you drop to 3.5 tons it saves a convenient half ton given that several electronics packages are 1.5 tons (Beagle, Guardian, C3i).

Below I've replaced the Machineguns with small pulse lasers, keeping the anti-infantry capacity but removing ammo dependency and increasing accuracy. Upping the laser to ER gives the Locust more reach and the increased heat isn't an issue unless running and alpha-striking - and then minimally. I went with the Beagle Active Probe as a sensor package for a scout, but it would be easy enough to have variants with ECM, or TAG and an ER small laser in its place.

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-3a

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 1,890,400 C-Bills
Battle Value: 515

Chassis: Unknown Endo-Steel
Power Plant: Unknown 160 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Unknown Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    1  ER Medium Laser
    2  Small Pulse Lasers
    1  Beagle Active Probe
Manufacturer: Unknown
    Primary Factory: Unknown
Communications System: Unknown
Targeting and Tracking System: Unknown

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    33 points                1.00
    Internal Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT, 3 LA, 3 RA, 1 LL, 1 RL
Engine:             Fusion Engine                160                       6.00
    Walking MP: 8
    Running MP: 12
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Single Heat Sink             10                        0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT, 1 LL, 1 RL
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  62                  3.50
    Armor Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT, 4 LA, 4 RA

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            8         
                                        Center Torso     6            10       
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  2         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            3         
                                             L/R Leg     4            8         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Medium Laser                              HD        5         1         1.00
Beagle Active Probe                          CT        0         2         1.50
Small Pulse Laser                            RA        2         1         1.00
Small Pulse Laser                            LA        2         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 14

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 5
8          2       1       0       0      1     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: PRB, RCN, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
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Takiro

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #5 on: June 15, 2019, 09:04:12 AM »
Thanks drak, I was also thinking of refitting all those Locusts already manufactured out there with Level 2 tech but it seems that will be an extensive process if so desired.

EndoSteel and Ferro-Fibrous is essentially what the 3M, 3S, & 3D have already done so your core upgrade components are readily available. The EndoSteel skeletal work would be a bitch though, cause you have to take the whole Mech apart basically. However, this is a Locust and hence the smallest BattleMech to disassemble for such a project so it might not be that bad. The Ferro-Fibrous upgrade ain't bad but the arm protection gets even weaker, yikes.

Small Pulses is a good swap for Machine Guns as when you account for the ammo they weigh the same. While heat generated is greater there is the added accuracy and the new rules seem to add flavor to the Pulse Laser so I like it.

I also agree with the Beagle Active Probe as the Mech is continual referred to as a Scout plus you can find hidden infantry for your arm mounted [point defense] weapons [be they Machine Guns or Small Pulse].

Swapping the Beagle Active Probe the way that masterarminas frequently does with some of his Clan configurations for a Guardian ECM is certainly possible. A TAG or C3 Slave variation could certainly work as well and both of those could feature an additional Small Laser or Flamer to account for that half ton mass.

Only thing that is a no-no would be ER Mediums and ER Smalls at this time cause the InnerSphere doesn't invent them for another 5 years at least.

This model is a nice simple upgrade and potential competitor for the 3M. Any idea who would be behind it? Your core variant would itself have three other possible variants so who would or could do this?? Mercenaries and some arms corporation offering lostech upgrades might work. Possibly Liao might be a frontrunner here given their experience with surveillance machines like the Raven. Interestingly enough the facility on Ares is a Bergan Industries facility which originally manufactured the Locust in 2499.

Manufacturers (according to Objective Raids)

LCT-1V Locust - Alliance Defenders Limited - Alpheratz (Outworlds Alliance)
LCT-1V Locust - Pinard Protectorates Limited - MacLeod's Land (Taurian Concordat)
LCT-1V Locust - Taurus Territorial Industries - Taurus (Taurian Concordat)
LCT-1V Locust - Bergan Industries - Ares (Capellan Confederation)
LCT-1V Locust - Majesty Metals and Manufacturing - Canopus IV (Magistracy of Canopus)
LCT-1V Locust - Alshain Weaponry - Alshain (Clan Ghost Bear)
LCT-3D Locust - Achernar BattleMechs - New Avalon (Federated Commonwealth)
LCT-3M Locust - Gibson Federated BattleMechs - Gibson (Free Worlds League)
LCT-3M Locust - Corean Enterprises - Stewart (Free Worlds League)
LCT 3S Locust - Defiance Industries - Furillo (FC)
« Last Edit: June 15, 2019, 11:04:29 AM by Takiro »
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marauder648

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #6 on: June 15, 2019, 01:16:23 PM »
Locust 5D

Designed to be produced quickly and cheaply and using the large number of available hulls, the 5D is a simple upgrade of the Locusts weapons. Loosing any form of ammunition vulnerability the machine guns are replaced with  small pulse lasers, whilst the medium laser is upgraded to a medium pulse laser.
A simple upgrade that could be carried out in the field, the 5D was popular with new pilots as well as veterans who preferred the accuracy of the pulse lasers over their older weapons.

Code: [Select]
Locust Retrofit
Base Tech Level: Standard (IS)
Level          Era
-------------------
Experimental    - 
Advanced        - 
Standard      3050+
Tech Rating: E/X-X-D-D

Weight: 20 tons
BV: 425
Cost: 1,549,600 C-bills
Source: Clan Invasion

Movement: 8/12
Engine: 160
Heat Sinks: 10
Gyro: Standard Gyro

Internal: 33
Armor: 48/69
                     Internal  Armor   
----------------------------------------
Head                        3      9   
Center Torso                6      6   
Center Torso (rear)                1   
Right Torso                 5      7   
Right Torso (rear)                 1   
Left Torso                  5      7   
Left Torso (rear)                  1   
Right Arm                   3      3   
Left Arm                    3      3   
Right Leg                   4      5   
Left Leg                    4      5   

Weapons             Loc  Heat 
-------------------------------
Small Pulse Laser    LA    2   
Small Pulse Laser    RA    2   
Medium Pulse Laser   CT    4   




Quirks
------
Compact Mech<br/>
Narrow/Low Profile<br/>
Cramped Cockpit<br/>
No/Minimal Arms<br/>
No Torso Twist<br/>
Weak Legs

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lrose

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #7 on: June 15, 2019, 04:42:01 PM »
I haven't had time to write up a full entry but here you go.  If you're going to go an upgrade you should either go big or go home.  The LCT-6X increases the speed, swaps the weapons for an LRM 5 (really a locust shouldn't be getting close to anything other then maybe infantry) and adds electronics to turn it into a great scout (BAP, ECM) and an artillery spotter (TAG).  Yes this comes at the cost of armor (I actually considered an unarmored design with a 240XL engine that moved 12/18) but if a Locust gets hit it's probably toast anyway so why worry about it.  The same logic applies to the XL Engine.  Yes it is expensive, yes it makes the mech more vulnerable to damage but if you're getting hit you're already most likely dead anyway.  So you might as well use the XL engine, add the extra speed and equipment and not worry about it. 


Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-6X
Tonnage 20
Internal Structure   Endosteel 1
Engine: 220XL 5
Walking MP: 11
Running MP: 16
Jumping MP: 0
Heatsinks 10
Gyro 3
Cockpit 3
Armor      17   Ferrofibrous 1
IS Armor
Head 3 2
CT 6 2/1
RT/LT 5 2/1
RA/LA 3 1
RL/LL 5 2

Weapons & Ammo
LRM 5 RT 1 2
Ammo (24) RT 1 1
TAG H 1 1
Guardian ECM  LT 2 1.5
Beagle Active Probe  LT 2 1.5


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masterarminas

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #8 on: June 15, 2019, 11:53:28 PM »
The venerable Locust BattleMech is produced at two sites in the Taurian Concordat:  Taurus Territorial Industries (on Taurus) and Pinard Protectorates Limited (on MacLeod's Land).  Primarily intended for export (the TDF acquires less than 15% of the annual production for its own use), mercenaries across the Inner Sphere and Periphery sometimes place orders years in advance.

Recovered technology (from the Helm Core as well as that discovered buried on Celano by Taurian researchers) gave the Concordat the option to offer an upgraded Locust to its customer base.

This design (designated as the LCT-2T Locust) utilized a LTV 160 Extra-Light Fusion Engine and a Bergan VIIb Endo-Steel chassis to save as much mass as possible.  Double strength heat sinks were also included in the design.  Armor tonnage (and allocation) remained identical to the LCT-1V Locust so commonly encountered throughout the Inner Sphere and Periphery.

Although this approach was costly, even the most expensive of the new Taurian Locust variants still cost less than 2.7 million C-Bills.  And while the Taurian Defense Force may well have balked at such a price tag for a mere Locust, both Taurus Territorial Industries and Pinard Protectorates Limited were salivating in anticipation at the prospects of increased revenue from export models.

The LCT-2T Locust used the massive increase in heat dissipation capacity and the savings in tonnage to combine the LCT-1V and LCT-1E variants into a single model.  Entirely energy based, the LCT-2T featured three Martell Medium Lasers (center torso, right arm, and left arm), supported by four Magna 200P Small Pulse Lasers (two each in the right arm and left arm).  This provided the same anti-personnel capacity as the LCT-1V while mounting only energy based weaponry (eliminating the risk of an onboard ammunition detonation) in a manner similar to the LCT-1E. 

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2T

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E
Production Year: 3053
Cost: 2,540,800 C-Bills
Battle Value: 662

Chassis: Bergan VII/b Endo-Steel
Power Plant: LTV 160 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: 1s/StarSlab Standard Armor
Armament:
    3 Martell Medium Lasers
    4 Magna 200P Small Pulse Lasers
Manufacturer: Taurus Territorial Industries; Pinard Protectorates Limited
    Primary Factory: Taurus; MacLeod's Land
Communications System: Garret T-10B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    33 points                1.00
    Internal Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             160                       3.00
    Walking MP: 8
    Running MP: 12
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             10(20)                    0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV -  64                  4.00

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            8         
                                        Center Torso     6            10       
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  2         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            4         
                                             L/R Leg     4            8         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Laser                                 RA        3         1         1.00
2 Small Pulse Lasers                         RA        4         2         2.00
2 Small Pulse Lasers                         LA        4         2         2.00
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 12

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 7
8          3       2       0       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
Three variants on the basic LCT-2T Locust were also designed and produced by TTI and PPL.

The LCT-2T-2 removes all four Magna 200P Small Pulse Lasers and the center torso Martell Medium Laser.  Both arm mounted Martell Medium Lasers were retained.  Replacing these weapons is a Martell Extended-Range Large Laser!  This gives the LCT-2T-2 substantial direct firepower in close, and a reach farther than that of a standard PPC! 

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2T-2

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E
Production Year: 3053
Cost: 2,656,000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 792

Chassis: Bergan VII/b Endo-Steel
Power Plant: LTV 160 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: 1s/StarSlab Standard Armor
Armament:
    1 Martell ER Large Laser
    2 Martell Medium Lasers
Manufacturer: Taurus Territorial Industries; Pinard Protectorates Limited
    Primary Factory: Taurus; MacLeod's Land
Communications System: Garret T-10B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    33 points                1.00
    Internal Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             160                       3.00
    Walking MP: 8
    Running MP: 12
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             10(20)                    0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV -  64                  4.00

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            8         
                                        Center Torso     6            10       
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  2         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            4         
                                             L/R Leg     4            8         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Laser                                 RA        3         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
ER Large Laser                               CT        12        2         5.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 15

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 8
8          2       2       1       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
The LCT-2T-3 is the spiritual child of the LCT-1M.  All weapon systems other than center torso mounted Martell Medium Laser have been removed.  Two Holly LRM-5 Long Range Missile Launchers have been installed in their place (one each in the right and left arm).  These missile packs are fed by two tons of ammunition giving the LCT-2T-3 a total of 24 salvoes of ten missiles.  The double strength heat sinks were retained, making it almost impossible for the LCT-2T-3 to overheat, even after being struck by a Flamer or Inferno missiles and suffering critical damage to the engine!

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2T-3

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E
Production Year: 3053
Cost: 2,440,000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 548

Chassis: Bergan VII/b Endo-Steel
Power Plant: LTV 160 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: 1s/StarSlab Standard Armor
Armament:
    1 Martell Medium Laser
    2 Holly LRM-5s
Manufacturer: Taurus Territorial Industries; Pinard Protectorates Limited
    Primary Factory: Taurus; MacLeod's Land
Communications System: Garret T-10B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    33 points                1.00
    Internal Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             160                       3.00
    Walking MP: 8
    Running MP: 12
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             10(20)                    0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV -  64                  4.00

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            8         
                                        Center Torso     6            10       
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  2         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            4         
                                             L/R Leg     4            8         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LRM-5                                        RA        2         1         2.00
LRM-5                                        LA        2         1         2.00
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
@LRM-5 (24)                                  RA        -         1         1.00
@LRM-5 (24)                                  LA        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 14

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 5
8          1       2       1       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1
Finally, there is the LCT-2T-4, which is the direct descendant of the LCT-1S.  Once again (like the LCT-2T-3), the center torso Martell Medium Laser has been retained.  But this time, the missile launchers are a pair of Holly SRM-4 Short Range Missile Launchers (one each in the right arm and left arm).  These missile packs are each fed by a ton of ammunition, giving the MechWarrior assigned to this Locust variant a full 25 twin salvoes.

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2T-4

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E
Production Year: 3053
Cost: 2,512,000 C-Bills
Battle Value: 522

Chassis: Bergan VII/b Endo-Steel
Power Plant: LTV 160 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: 1s/StarSlab Standard Armor
Armament:
    1 Martell Medium Laser
    2 Holly SRM-4s
Manufacturer: Taurus Territorial Industries; Pinard Protectorates Limited
    Primary Factory: Taurus; MacLeod's Land
Communications System: Garret T-10B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    33 points                1.00
    Internal Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             160                       3.00
    Walking MP: 8
    Running MP: 12
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             10(20)                    0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV -  64                  4.00

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            8         
                                        Center Torso     6            10       
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  2         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            4         
                                             L/R Leg     4            8         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SRM-4                                        RA        3         1         2.00
SRM-4                                        LA        3         1         2.00
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
@SRM-4 (25)                                  RA        -         1         1.00
@SRM-4 (25)                                  LA        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 14

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 5
8          1       1       0       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, SRM 1/1/0
Although more expensive than the simple LCT-1V Locust, the new LCT-2T and its three variants are expected to replace the older model completely on the production lines by 3060.  This year alone, both TTI and PPL plan on converting some 40% of their production line capacity to the new and more advanced -2T variants.

Anticipation for these new BattleMechs (or new takes on a rather ancient BattleMech!) has been quite high, with numerous requests for specifications from various mercenary outfits and even from some Inner Sphere manufacturers (including Defiance Industries and Bergan Industries).  Executives at TTI and PPL believe that an offer might soon be made to license the design within the Capellan Confederation and Lyran Commonwealth; perhaps the Free Worlds League as well.  Trade with the Federated Suns, however, is still prohibited by law.

Only the future will tell how this new model of the ancient Locust performs on the battlefield and whether or not these variants will stand the test of time to survive and thrive within the Inner Sphere.
« Last Edit: June 15, 2019, 11:57:52 PM by masterarminas »
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drakensis

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #9 on: June 16, 2019, 01:35:01 AM »
Quote from: Takiro on June 15, 2019, 09:04:12 AM
Only thing that is a no-no would be ER Mediums and ER Smalls at this time cause the InnerSphere doesn't invent them for another 5 years at least.
Whoops, my bad. Still, the standard lasers would also work.

Quote from: Takiro on June 15, 2019, 09:04:12 AM
This model is a nice simple upgrade and potential competitor for the 3M. Any idea who would be behind it? Your core variant would itself have three other possible variants so who would or could do this?? Mercenaries and some arms corporation offering lostech upgrades might work. Possibly Liao might be a frontrunner here given their experience with surveillance machines like the Raven. Interestingly enough the facility on Ares is a Bergan Industries facility which originally manufactured the Locust in 2499.
I'd be inclined towards one of the FWL factories, since they seem to be quite well advanced in terms of laser technology, thus the switch to pulse lasers in the arm. Possibly they collaborated with the Capellans by virtue of their 3052 alliance, with the Capellans bringing the electronics expertise.
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Takiro

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #10 on: June 16, 2019, 05:06:05 AM »
The choice is your drak but your variant strikes me (I'd call it the 3L) as very solid but not revolutionary. Your using advanced structure (EndoSteel) and armor (Ferro-Fibrous) which all the existing TRO3050 versions did (Marik, Steiner, Davion). This copy then replaces the Small Pulses which are not only a fit but the tiniest and there for easiest advanced tech weapons to procure. According to Objective Raids the Magna 200P is made on Betelgeuse and therefore readily available for this upgrade. Next you did what no one else did (I still haven't reviewed all the new designs that came in yet) and put a Beagle Active Prove on which gets to the Locust's recon character. The Capellans also manufacture it (on Capella no less) for the Raven I believe which might be an excellent pairing here. I liked the idea of Bergan going back to the Locust's roots for this variant as well, that is why I was thinking of the Confederation here. Its not a massive upgrade but it plays well here for them for the reasons above. Free Worlds League assistance could also be provided thanks to the alliance.

Well as I mentioned I haven't gotten a chance to review everything that came in yet. I did see marauder648's (the Pulse variant or 3P as I call it) and Irose's (tissue paper recon LRM element) entries yesterday. I did go to give some critiques yesterday but computer problems literally shot me down. Suffice it to say that marauder's appears to me as an advanced tech weapon swap for a base 3025 model. No frills for the equipment (unless I am missing something) but a solid anti-infantry variant for users around the InnerSphere. Irose certainly played to a more advanced 3D model in my opinion but went a bit too far in very light armor (a dent may produce a critical) and a massive surveillance package. Very U2 spy plane here bud however don't you have to get close to an extent to use the Guardian ECM (6 hex range) and the Beagle Active Probe (4 hexes). Now I think the LRM and the TAG work well cause they are ranged. Plus you went 220 XL which makes me think of the 3055 Fireball and the LCT-5M. Increasing the Locust speed is desirable mind you  and the 220 XL is available too form Shipil and Skye at this time. I was thinking more of a dumbed down (cause they don't have ER Lasers now) 5M which I call the 4M on my side of musing.

Well I couldn't wait to sit down and look at masterarminas entries and as usual he doesn't disappoint. The Taurian 'drawing board' versions as I call them are really good and while there are fluff reasons that would be need to be addressed in order for the Concordat to overcome a slow lostech rediscovery we might be able to work with this. Besides a 3060 introduction would be plausible as the House or InnerSphere versions here would debut in late 3052 or 3053. I like how you integrated the 3025 variants in your base model which certainly has bite against infantry and 'Mechs. You then double down on that anti-Mech bite with version two which has scary reach. While I could see ComStar or another faction go here as well it is a nasty little Locust with a big gun.

Variant three is quite near what I was thinking for the 4D but I would remove a ton of ammo for a TAG (CT mounted) so that this Davion harasser would not only run around at long range nailing you with LRM fire but can serve as a spotter for Arrow IV Artillery assets. I see neither of us used a CASE too (so much for pilot safety) and my advanced Davion version lacked Double Heat Sinks. I like your fourth variant too and it goes somewhat near my Steiner variant but is different in concept. Still very solid. The only thing is production and testing would be painfully slow. The Taurians might be forced to watch as others field their concepts before they can which sucks.

Actually got another submission via CBT private message from Daryk this morning which was quite similar to what drakensis has proposed over here on OBT. This big difference is that his had a Recon Camera and Remote Sensor Dispenser plus a ton of Ferro-Fibrous armor in place of a Beagle Active Probe. I did not list those items or a Blazer Cannon as available tech for this challenge but thinking about it they would be acceptable. So I will add those items to the available list as possibilities.

I have some of my own ideas (advanced Steiner, Davion, Marik versions) to post and will do so when I have time hopefully soon. Ice Hellion too is on the way with an entry of his. Nice little design discussion developing here folks so please keep those Locust concepts and thoughts coming. Feedback is welcomed!
« Last Edit: June 16, 2019, 08:40:48 AM by Takiro »
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Abele

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #11 on: June 16, 2019, 10:48:05 AM »
First up is an upgrade to the LCT1E and sees the speed go up to 10/15 with the use of an XLFE. It gets the bog standard Endo and ferro upgrades. A medium pulser gets added to the CT while the !E's small get upgraded to small pulsers.

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2Er

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 2,818,400 C-Bills
Battle Value: 689

Chassis: Bergan VII Endo-Steel
Power Plant: LTV 200 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 108.0 km/h
Maximum Speed: 162.0 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarSlab/1 Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    1  Medium Pulse Laser
    2  Medium Lasers
    2  Small Pulse Lasers
Manufacturer: Bergan Industries, Alliance Defenders Limited, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
    Primary Factory: Ares (Bergan), Alpheratz (ADL), Canopus IV (Majesty)
Communications System: Garrett T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    33 points                1.00
    Internal Locations: 1 HD, 1 CT, 2 LT, 2 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             200                       4.50
    Walking MP: 10
    Running MP: 15
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             10(20)                    0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  62                  3.50
    Armor Locations: 4 LT, 4 RT, 3 LA, 3 RA

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     6            8         
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  3         
                                           L/R Torso     5            7         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            5         
                                             L/R Leg     4            7         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Pulse Laser                           CT        4         1         2.00
Small Pulse Laser                            RA        2         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 RA        3         1         1.00
Small Pulse Laser                            LA        2         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 6

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 7
10         3       2       0       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


A minor variant of this model sees the medium pulser replaced by a standard medium laser and a TAG unit. This variant is eeing growing acceptanc in units with Arrow IV artillery systems

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2Era

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 2,854,400 C-Bills
Battle Value: 684

Chassis: Bergan VII Endo-Steel
Power Plant: LTV 200 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 108.0 km/h
Maximum Speed: 162.0 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarSlab/1 Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    3  Medium Lasers
    2  Small Pulse Lasers
    1  TAG
Manufacturer: Bergan Industries, Alliance Defenders Limited, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
    Primary Factory: Ares (Bergan), Alpheratz (ADL), Canopus IV (Majesty)
Communications System: Garrett T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel                    33 points                1.00
    Internal Locations: 1 CT, 2 LT, 2 RT, 3 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             200                       4.50
    Walking MP: 10
    Running MP: 15
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             10(20)                    0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 1 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  62                  3.50
    Armor Locations: 4 LT, 4 RT, 3 LA, 3 RA

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     6            8         
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  3         
                                           L/R Torso     5            7         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            5         
                                             L/R Leg     4            7         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TAG                                          HD        0         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
Small Pulse Laser                            RA        2         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 RA        3         1         1.00
Small Pulse Laser                            LA        2         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 5

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 7
10         3       2       0       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: TAG, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA

Logged
The Honor of Men cannot be bound by the words of Fools- Marco Hietala
I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. - Confucius
May God defend me from my friends; I can defend myself from my enemies. - Voltaire
Chaos doesn't need a recipe, just a list of ingredients. - Drakensis
Kachi ni Fushigi no Kachi Ari. Make ni Fushigi no Make Nashi
Wielder of the Ferro-Carbide Bat of Doom™®©

lrose

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Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #12 on: June 16, 2019, 11:00:02 AM »
I know the armor is no existent- I had to give up something (firepower, armor, mobility or electronics) and armor lost.  As for the Beagle Active Probe - I know how the rules read but from a real world perspective I figure they would be constantly scanning and give off warnings when you passed anything, not just at the end of the movement phase (I mean in the real world we don't have movement phases).

Logged

Abele

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  • Posts: 1,093
  • A Man in a Tin Suit
Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #13 on: June 16, 2019, 11:22:24 AM »
The Locust-2S is a refit of the standard 1V model that uses a 180XL engine to attain greater speed. It's armed with a Cyclop model ER Large Laser in the center torso. this allows for long-range attack and makes for a great backstabbing weapon especially agains tthe poorly armored Clan light Mechs.

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2S

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 2,722,200 C-Bills
Battle Value: 700

Chassis: Bergan VII Standard
Power Plant: LTV 180 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 97.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 151.2 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarSlab/1 Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    1  ER Large Laser
    2  Small Lasers
Manufacturer: Bergan Industries, Alliance Defenders Limited, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
    Primary Factory: Ares (Bergan), Alpheratz (ADL), Canopus IV (Majesty)
Communications System: Garrett T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      33 points                2.00
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             180                       3.50
    Walking MP: 9
    Running MP: 14
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             10(20)                    0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 2 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  62                  3.50
    Armor Locations: 1 HD, 3 LT, 2 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     6            8         
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  3         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            4         
                                             L/R Leg     4            7         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Large Laser                               CT        12        2         5.00
Small Laser                                  RA        1         1         0.50
Small Laser                                  LA        1         1         0.50
                                            Free Critical Slots: 18

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 7
9          2       1       1       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


A variant of the Locust-2S draws on the Locust 1S and replaces the SRM2 launchers with Streak varianst and moves the launchers from the arms to the center torso giving greater access to the ammo bin in the left torso. Two standard medium lasers are mounted in the arms.

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2S2

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 2,587,200 C-Bills
Battle Value: 625

Chassis: Bergan VII Standard
Power Plant: LTV 180 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 97.2 km/h
Maximum Speed: 151.2 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarSlab/1 Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    2  Medium Lasers
    2  Streak SRM-2s
Manufacturer: Bergan Industries, Alliance Defenders Limited, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
    Primary Factory: Ares (Bergan), Alpheratz (ADL), Canopus IV (Majesty)
Communications System: Garrett T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      33 points                2.00
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             180                       3.50
    Walking MP: 9
    Running MP: 14
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Double Heat Sink             10(20)                    0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 LT, 2 RT
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  62                  3.50
    Armor Locations: 1 HD, 3 LT, 2 RT, 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 2 RL

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     6            8         
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  3         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            4         
                                             L/R Leg     4            7         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 Streak SRM-2s                              CT        4         2         3.00
Medium Laser                                 RA        3         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
@Streak SRM-2 (50)                           LT        -         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 17

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 6
9          2       2       0       0      1     0   Structure:  1
Special Abilities: SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


The Locust-2OA is a refit of Locusts built within the Outworlds Alliance. Lushann Industries through an agreement between the Aliance and the Federated gained the ability to produce pulse lasers of all sizes with excess production being sold to the Federated Suns at cost for the next ten years. With this new technology and the purchase of Ferro-Fibrous armorkits from Federated Suns it opened up the opportunity to upgrade about ten percent of the Alliance's total battlemech force and the switch of new Locusts to this new standard. Amedium pulse laseer laser replaces the standard while two small asers replace the machine guns. A variant that swaps the medium pulse back to a standard while upgrading the Small lasers to pulse technology is also being considered. Alliance Defenders Limited which produce the Qv model is making a concerted effort to acquire the ability to produce the ferro-fibrous armor to eliminate the purchasing of armor kits. they are also seeking the ability to produce XL engines for the 160 and 120 fusion engines for use on all three light Mechs they produce.

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2OA

Mass: 20 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: 3054
Cost: 1,598,200 C-Bills
Battle Value: 487

Chassis: Bergan VII Standard
Power Plant: LTV 160 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarSlab/1 Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    1  Medium Pulse Laser
    2  Small Lasers
Manufacturer: Bergan Industries, Alliance Defenders Limited, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
    Primary Factory: Ares (Bergan), Alpheratz (ADL), Canopus IV (Majesty)
Communications System: Garrett T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      33 points                2.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                160                       6.00
    Walking MP: 8
    Running MP: 12
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Single Heat Sink             10                        0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LL, 2 RL
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  69                  4.00
    Armor Locations: 1 HD, 1 CT, 3 LT, 3 RT, 3 LA, 3 RA

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     6            9         
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  3         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            6         
                                             L/R Leg     4            8         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Pulse Laser                           CT        4         1         2.00
Small Laser                                  RA        1         1         0.50
Small Laser                                  LA        1         1         0.50
                                            Free Critical Slots: 30

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 5
8          2       1       0       0      1     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


Locust-2OA-2

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-2OA-2

Mass: 20 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: 3054
Cost: 1,585,600 C-Bills
Battle Value: 495

Chassis: Bergan VII Standard
Power Plant: LTV 160 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarSlab/1 Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    1  Medium Laser
    2  Small Pulse Lasers
Manufacturer: Bergan Industries, Alliance Defenders Limited, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
    Primary Factory: Ares (Bergan), Alpheratz (ADL), Canopus IV (Majesty)
Communications System: Garrett T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      33 points                2.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                160                       6.00
    Walking MP: 8
    Running MP: 12
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Single Heat Sink             10                        0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LL, 2 RL
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  69                  4.00
    Armor Locations: 1 HD, 1 CT, 3 LT, 3 RT, 3 LA, 3 RA

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     6            9         
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  3         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            6         
                                             L/R Leg     4            8         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
Small Pulse Laser                            RA        2         1         1.00
Small Pulse Laser                            LA        2         1         1.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 30

BattleForce Statistics
MV      S (+0)  M (+2)  L (+4)  E (+6)   Wt.   Ov   Armor:      2    Points: 5
8          2       1       0       0      1     0   Structure:  2
Special Abilities: ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA


A notional Locust-3OA would use a 160XL engine along with ferro-fibrous armor and is armed twin medium and small pulsers and maximum armor protection

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-3OA

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3054
Cost: 2,449,600 C-Bills
Battle Value: 555

Chassis: Bergan VII Standard
Power Plant: LTV 160 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 86.4 km/h
Maximum Speed: 129.6 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarSlab/1 Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    2  Medium Pulse Lasers
    2  Small Pulse Lasers
Manufacturer: Bergan Industries, Alliance Defenders Limited, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
    Primary Factory: Ares (Bergan), Alpheratz (ADL), Canopus IV (Majesty)
Communications System: Garrett T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      33 points                2.00
Engine:             XL Fusion Engine             160                       3.00
    Walking MP: 8
    Running MP: 12
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Single Heat Sink             10                        0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 2 LL, 2 RL
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  69                  4.00
    Armor Locations: 1 HD, 4 LT, 3 RT, 3 LA, 3 RA

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     6            9         
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  3         
                                           L/R Torso     5            8         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            6         
                                             L/R Leg     4            8         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 Small Pulse Lasers                         CT        4         2         2.00
Medium Pulse Laser                           RA        4         1         2.00
Medium Pulse Laser                           LA        4         1         2.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 23

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


« Last Edit: June 16, 2019, 11:51:18 AM by Abele »
Logged
The Honor of Men cannot be bound by the words of Fools- Marco Hietala
I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. - Confucius
May God defend me from my friends; I can defend myself from my enemies. - Voltaire
Chaos doesn't need a recipe, just a list of ingredients. - Drakensis
Kachi ni Fushigi no Kachi Ari. Make ni Fushigi no Make Nashi
Wielder of the Ferro-Carbide Bat of Doom™®©

Abele

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  • A Man in a Tin Suit
Re: Optimizing the Locust!
« Reply #14 on: June 16, 2019, 11:42:11 AM »
Leftenant Ricard Roubidoux of the 7th Crucis Lancers sunk a large chunk of his family fortune in upgrading his family's Locust to its current configuration. Using the 140 SFE (salvaged from a downed Panther) that has been in the Locust for the better part of a century, he replaced all of the medium lasers that had been mounted on the reconstructed Mech with a pair of medium pulsers while a standard medium laser replaced all of the small lasers.

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-1V 'Roubidoux'

Mass: 20 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: 3054
Cost: 1,635,200 C-Bills
Battle Value: 554

Chassis: Bergan VII Standard
Power Plant: LTV 140 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 75.6 km/h
Maximum Speed: 118.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarSlab/1 Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
    2  Medium Pulse Lasers
    1  Medium Laser
Manufacturer: Bergan Industries, Alliance Defenders Limited, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
    Primary Factory: Ares (Bergan), Alpheratz (ADL), Canopus IV (Majesty)
Communications System: Garrett T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      33 points                2.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                140                       5.00
    Walking MP: 7
    Running MP: 11
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Single Heat Sink             10                        0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 HD, 2 LL, 2 RL
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Ferro-Fibrous                AV -  53                  3.00
    Armor Locations: 4 LT, 4 RT, 3 LA, 3 RA

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     6            8         
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  2         
                                           L/R Torso     5            6         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            4         
                                             L/R Leg     4            5         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
Medium Pulse Laser                           RA        4         1         2.00
Medium Pulse Laser                           LA        4         1         2.00
                                            Free Critical Slots: 29

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

Old Roubidoux Locust for reference

Code: [Select]
Locust LCT-1V 'Roubidoux' [Old]

Mass: 20 tons
Tech Base: Inner Sphere
Chassis Config: Biped
Rules Level: Introductory
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: D/X-X-D-A
Production Year: 3054
Cost: 1,597,700 C-Bills
Battle Value: 605

Chassis: Bergan VII Standard
Power Plant: LTV 140 Fusion Engine
Walking Speed: 75.6 km/h
Maximum Speed: 118.8 km/h
Jump Jets: None
    Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: StarSlab/1 Standard Armor
Armament:
    3  Medium Lasers
    3  Small Lasers
Manufacturer: Bergan Industries, Alliance Defenders Limited, Majesty Metals and Manufacturing
    Primary Factory: Ares (Bergan), Alpheratz (ADL), Canopus IV (Majesty)
Communications System: Garrett T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911

================================================================================
Equipment           Type                         Rating                   Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Standard                      33 points                2.00
Engine:             Fusion Engine                140                       5.00
    Walking MP: 7
    Running MP: 11
    Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks:         Single Heat Sink             10                        0.00
    Heat Sink Locations: 1 CT, 2 LL, 2 RL
Gyro:               Standard                                               2.00
Cockpit:            Standard                                               3.00
    Actuators:      L: SH+UA    R: SH+UA
Armor:              Standard Armor               AV -  56                  3.50

                                                      Internal       Armor     
                                                      Structure      Factor     
                                                Head     3            9         
                                        Center Torso     6            8         
                                 Center Torso (rear)                  3         
                                           L/R Torso     5            7         
                                    L/R Torso (rear)                  2         
                                             L/R Arm     3            4         
                                             L/R Leg     4            5         

================================================================================
Equipment                                 Location    Heat    Critical    Mass 
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Small Laser                                  HD        1         1         0.50
Medium Laser                                 CT        3         1         1.00
Medium Laser                                 RA        3         1         1.00
Small Laser                                  RA        1         1         0.50
Medium Laser                                 LA        3         1         1.00
Small Laser                                  LA        1         1         0.50
                                            Free Critical Slots: 40

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

« Last Edit: June 16, 2019, 12:02:56 PM by Abele »
Logged
The Honor of Men cannot be bound by the words of Fools- Marco Hietala
I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand. - Confucius
May God defend me from my friends; I can defend myself from my enemies. - Voltaire
Chaos doesn't need a recipe, just a list of ingredients. - Drakensis
Kachi ni Fushigi no Kachi Ari. Make ni Fushigi no Make Nashi
Wielder of the Ferro-Carbide Bat of Doom™®©
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