You could also go to a Medium Pulse Laser too.
LCT-4S LOCUSTMass: 20 tons
Chassis: Bergan VII Modified Endo Steel
Power Plant: LTV 160 XL
Cruising Speed: 86 kph
Maximum Speed: 130 kph
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: None
Armor: 1s/StarSlab Standard Armor
Armament: 1 Defiance B3M Medium Laser
2 Holly SRM-4s
Manufacturer: Defiance Industries
Primary Factory: Furillo
Communications System: Garret T10-B
Targeting and Tracking System: O/P 911
OVERVIEW The LCT-4S is the direct descendant of the LCT-1S and the 3S who followed that in 3049. This new design has been completely optimized with modern technology by Bullrun Concepts for the best possible performance. This ‘4’ series model which is now entering production on Furillo has been welcomed by Defiance Industries and some within the reassembling Steiner El-Caf. However, certain Lyran traditionalists who are perhaps the most reluctant to accept any such ‘new Ultra-light’ designs have been easily the most vocal critics of the entire upgrade process. Some assert that the 3S was solid enough and further investment should have been made in more effective heavier ‘Mechs which could in theory push back against the Clans. While such disapproval was expected certain elements who are seeking to undermine the Federated Commonwealth alliance and the recently concluded Martial Accords have cited the development of the 4S specifically as part of their increasingly harsh political rhetoric. Led by Duke Ryan Steiner of Porrima this potentially subversive group has been thus far been stymied by the Archon’s full-throated endorsement. Backing her words with actions Melissa has directly slated the immediate assignment of this new Locust to specific Lyran units. Only time will tell who will ultimately triumphant in this growing war of words.
CAPABILITIES Like its sister Four Series designs the 4S uses the Bergan VII Modified Endo Steel chassis that was originally developed for the LCT-3S. Mating this readily available skeletal structure with the newly manufactured LTV 160 XL was expertly carried out by Bullrun Concepts of Solaris VII. This enabled the best possible weight savings that the Locust could benefit from at this time for maximum design capability. There were older components from the LCT-1V that have been retained like the four tons of 1s/StarSlab Standard Armor and the electronic systems. Defiance did upgrade the centrally mounted Medium Laser with their own model and choose two Holly SRM-4s to provide the main firepower. This move away from the Streak models of the 3S can do more damage or heat if Mechwarriors choose to utilize inferno rounds. Most preferred this exchange despite the loss of accuracy not to mention the semi-modularity of the weapon mounts. This allows for rapid swaps of the arm mounted missile racks and even switching of the central mount to alternative energy weapons which includes TAGs. To facilitate this possible substitution ten Double Heat Sinks were included on the 4S, that like the 4D, makes it impossible for the BattleMech to overheat. Engine damage combined with external fire from inferno rounds or flamers unless extreme will not produce negative consequences for this Locust.
DEPLOYMENT Two new units currently assembling on Tharkad and Bolan were the first to receive the new LCT-4S. The Steiner Huscarls and the Bolan Scouts are both attempting to build on the proud Lyran traditions of the Stealths and Tamar Tigers. These elite regiments expertly fielded such light BattleMechs long ago and Archon Melissa Steiner-Davion has decreed that their high-speed tactics shall return to the reforming LCAF once more in these latest formations. Duke Ryan Steiner backed by other traditionalists have used these plans as fodder for their own propaganda. According to them fool hearty policies like this will result in further deaths for Lyran Mechwarriors who will be increasingly sacrificed to the Clan juggernaut.
These LCT-4S designs might not be the first to see battle however as some have been routed to friendly mercenary unit accustomed to using such light ‘Mechs like Eridani Light Horse. The Deneb Light Cavalry of the AFFC has also received a shipment as of this writing and as both commands are serving in the remainder of the Tamar March on the Clan border it is likely they will see action first. Significant foreign sales have also been scheduled in the future for both the ComGuards and the Rasalhague Kungsarme who are rebuilding following the Clan invasion. Limited sales have also been slated for the AFFS and the St. Ives Compact who are also looking to augment their forces as well.
Type: LCT-4S Locust
Technology Base: InnerSphere Level 2
Tonnage: 20 tons
Equipment Mass
Internal Structure: EndoSteel 1
Engine: 160 XL 3
Walking MP: 8
Running MP: 12
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: 10 (20) 0
Gyro: 2
Cockpit: 3
Armor Factor: 64 4
Internal Structure Armor Value
Head 3 8
Center Torso 6 10 / 2
R/L Torso 5 8 / 2
R/L Arm 3 4
R/L Leg 4 8
Weapons and Ammo: Location Criticals Mass
SRM-4 Right Arm 1 2
Ammo (SRM) 25 Right Arm 1 1
SRM-4 Left Arm 1 2
Ammo (SRM) 25 Left Arm 1 1
Medium Laser Center Torso 1 1
Cost = 2,512,000 C-Bills