OBT Forum
General BattleTech => General Discussion => MechFactory => Topic started by: Takiro on May 06, 2018, 10:50:51 PM
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Finishing up our Medium OmniMech selection is one of the newest designs deployed by the Clans, the Black Lanner. First produced at the Ironhold Alpha Complex in 3052 by the Jade Falcon Clan this war machine made its battlefield debut on Tukayyid. According to their Sourcebook five Black Lanners served in separate stars in Turkina Keshik [Trinary Bravo -
Mechwarrior Bendic, Elite & Mechwarrior Billock, Veteran (KIA) - Trinary Charlie - Star Captain Vanna Hazen, Elite (WIA) & Mechwarrior Nistru, Veteran (WIA) & Mechwarrior Cejj, Veteran (KIA)]. TRO3058 says that two stars of this new design proved their worth in this great conflict despite the Falcons managing only a draw against the ComGuards.
As the Clans returned home following the Truce news of an alternative invasion plan named Restoration bought new opportunities for glory for the Black Lanner. Following a furious debate in the Grand Council the Jade Falcons who favored the immediate resumption of the invasion in its original form demanded a combat trial to overturn the results. Two new Black Lanners assigned to the 5th Battle Cluster would be front and center for what would become known as the Trial of Restoration. Unfortunately, Mechwarrior Ditazh was defeated and claimed as a bondsman by Star Colonel Darren Fetladral of the Wolf 3rd Battle Cluster. Her Black Lanner A was utterly destroyed by his Gargoyle leaving no salvage for the Wolves.
Mechwarrior Lerva however achieved a measure of fame in her Black Lanner Prime as she squared off against Star Captain Tomas in a Viper B. Both were among the finest young warriors produced by their Clan’s sibkos and were the first of a new bred. The first strike of the entire battle was a distant ER Large Laser blast from Lerva’s Black Lanner against Tomas’ Viper. Their combat fought at range in the very center of the battlefield featured speed and maneuverability. Eventually Tomas’ ER PPC was knocked out with a well-placed shot by Lerva who was in line for the win. The Trial drew to an end before that could occur and the two ristars parted with a new-found respect for each other. Undefeated and judged by many of her kin to have won her honor duel Lerva and her Black Lanner became a hero of her Clan.
In the Quicksilver Trials which followed this new OmniMech easily won the 55-ton Werewolf (Speedster) spot for the Clans. Currently it remains a Jade Falcon possession but the Ice Hellion decision to halt secondary production of the Stormcrow (Ryoken) following the Quicksilver Trials signaled the start of their shift towards the Black Lanner. A growing Crusader alliance between the Falcons and the Hellions is readily apparent at this time and formalizing such a share of manufacturing will soon occur. These are the only two Clans I can see currently participating in an effort to further optimize the Black Lanner’s performance. Admittedly this one might frustrate some looking for more pod space as you will only have thirteen tons to work with.
Please discuss what you like about the existing configurations (would you keep them as is Quicksilver fluff will give you half a point now) and introduce your alternatives. Please explain why yours is best, what role it plays with your modifications, etc. Remember I love fluff. Again, you are not allowed to alter the base design itself but the configurations are opened game. Clan Level 2 is the tech level for this contest just after Tukayyid so no ATMs, AP Gauss, Heavy Lasers, or Light Active Probes! Teamwork is also very welcomed so if you have an idea it is acceptable to collaborate. Since multiple configurations can win whoever gets the most wins, wins! Bonus points for the best new Quicksilver fluff and if you can think of an InnerSphere designation for the Black Lanner!!
Criteria
Design: Black Lanner (??) Medium OmniMech
Era: 3052, just following the Truce of Tukayyid
Tech: Clan Level 2
Mass: 55 tons
Internal Structure: EndoSteel (3 ton)
Engine: 385 XL (22 tons)
Movement: 7/11(14)/0
Heat Sinks: 10 (20)
Gyro: (4 tons)
Cockpit: (3 tons)
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous (8 tons – 154 armor factor)
Armament: 13 tons available for pod space
You have two weeks to complete this challenge so please have your entries in by Friday May 18th, 2018 at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time, good luck!!
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Black Lanner (Harrier)
Mass: 55 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped Omnimech
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 16,360,573 C-Bills
Battle Value: 836
Chassis: JF 5 Light Endo-Steel
Power Plant: JF 385 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 75.6 km/h
Maximum Speed: 118.8 km/h (151.2 km/h)
Jump Jets: Unknown
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: JF Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
13.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Ironhold Alpha Complex, Olivetti Manufacturers
Primary Factory: Ironhold, Sudeten
Communications System: JF Integrated
Targeting and Tracking System: Series JFVIII Integrated
Overview:
Having finished development during Operation Revival, the Black Lanner was well placed to be rushed into use to make good the Jade Falcon's losses during the invasion - replacing fast mediums like the Stormcrow, Ice Ferret and Viper. Having been stung by the long supply lines back to the Homeworlds, Elias Crichell had already decided that an Inner Sphere factory would need to be updated to build Clan OmniMechs in the Inner Sphere, choosing to make his headquarters - and the eventual capital of the Jade Falcon Occupation Zone - on Sudeten.
Olivetti, not unaccustomed to high tech developments after twenty years working with the Gray Death Legion, found themselves suddenly invaded by Clan technicians intent on repurposing their production lines to build the Black Lanner. Initial tensions faded as excitement spread among the workforce - success would to some degree insulate the workers and their families from any negative consequences to the Invasion and the prospect of working on cutting edge technology was a thrill after having been 'left behind' in comparisons to the Clans.
In a degree of cooperation that would probably have alarmed Khan Crichell as much as it would House Steiner-Davion, the two groups not only put the Black Lanner into production in record time but also put their own stamp on the design's configurations. Test pilot Hughie Howard, rated a Technician by the Jade Falcons in their initial assessment of the plant, even won warrior status within the Jade Falcons - albeit in a limited sense, assigned to defend the factory - by defeating Jerad Mattlov in a duel between their two respective versions of the Black Lanner Prime.
Capabilities:
Hughie's Prime is very similar to that of the original Ironhold configuration but removes the SRM 6 that usually provides close in firepower. Reasoning that long range firepower was the Clans' LRMs in any case work perfectly well at even point blank range, Hughie had refitted his 'Mech with four small LRM launchers to double up the LRM throw weight, something that barely stretches the Black Lanner's heatsinks when paired with the large laser and allows full mobility when paired with the mediums. This allowed him to soften up Mattlov's Black Lanner at long range. Hughie's less damaged armour resisted the Jade Falcon Mechwarrior's SRMs once Mattlov closed in while his own alpha strike blew through both torsos and left his opponent disarmed and forced to concede.
The Black Lanner A was another result of work by Olivetti but in this case by the marketing department rather than the hardware side. While selling BattleMechs hasn't been a particularly hard sell since the fall of the Star League (except for a few notorious designs) the concept is completely alien to Clan sensibilities. In a bid to keep his staff from being re-designated as labourers and being dispersed, Director of Marketing Roth Schilds 'rebranded' the department's purpose as data gathering to develop specifications preferred by the end-user. As an example, his staff took on the Black Lanner A and pointed out that the TAG system was unpopular with Jade Falcon mechwarriors uncomfortable with the use of artillery and that the Lanner lacked a jumping configuration. Replacing the TAG unit with a targeting computer and the pulse lasers with jump jets turned the Black Lanner into a heavy scout/skirmisher with a sniping side-line. The design has proved extremely popular with Clan Jade Falcon, convincing the Clan administrators to sign off on marketing as a legitimate part of the design process and therefore as Scientist Caste. Further, the Black Lanner A's performance on the battlefield, harrying AFFC garrison forces during raids, won it the nickname 'Harrier' which has stuck.
The LRM racks of the Black Lanner B impressed Olivetti, accustomed to the much larger Archer. However, the low ammunition stores concerned them and they pointed out that for a cutting edge machine the design didn't use the superb Artemis tracking. Challenged to do better, the Clan technicians determined that an Artemis-enhanced LRM 15 would have almost the same hitting power as a normal LRM 20 since some missiles almost always missed anyway, and would allow greater endurance from the same magazine load. In fact by making this change they freed up a ton for more ammunition or a secondary armament. While sixteen full salvos (almost double the original nine) was tempting, the prospect of leaving a Mechwarrior entirely unarmed once the ammunition ran out convinced the designers to fit a pair of small lasers.
The infighting C-configuration of the Black Lanner mixed the hexagon mounted extended range lasers seen on the Nova and Stormcrow with a Streak SRM 6. Olivetti respectfully pointed out that this design incurred brutal over-heating and also left the design highly vulnerable in the event the left arm was lost. To address the first issue they proposed reducing the arm-mounted lasers by half and fit a pulse laser in the torso. Together with removing a heatsink this freed up the tonnage to allow the installation of a targeting computer and upgrading the SRMs to dual-quad launchers. This keeps most of the weapons in the arms, allowing combat while transporting Elementals, but means losing one arm does not potentially cripple the Black Lanner C.
If there was any configuration which Olivetti approached with trepidation it was the Black Lanner D, a configuration optimised for fighting Elementals and other infantry at close quarters. While the other Black Lanner configurations could be used in battle, the D-configuration was the one that they knew would see service against any insurrection against Jade Falcon occupation. The temptation to leave it unimproved or sabotage the development was considerable but ultimately resisted. Instead the Olivetti Black Lanner D was tweaked in the hope that this would encourage good faith dealing with the Clans that now ruled them. By scaling back the missile launchers and moving the pulse lasers into the torso, the designers were able to fit each arm with a trio of small lasers - giving the Harrier D more scope for direct combat in close quarters. The Black Lanner D hasn't yet been used for counter-insurrection, but the Jade Falcons have stationed two at the gates of Olivetti to secure the facility and to remind all those nearby of the consequences they could face if they don't remain compliant.
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Equipment Type Rating Mass
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Internal Structure: Endo-Steel 91 points 3.00
Internal Locations: 2 LA, 2 RA, 2 LL, 1 RL
Engine: XL Fusion Engine 385 22.00
Walking MP: 7
Running MP: 11 (14)
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 10(20) 0.00
Gyro: Standard 4.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 153 8.00
Armor Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT, 1 RL
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 18 25
Center Torso (rear) 7
L/R Torso 13 16
L/R Torso (rear) 5
L/R Arm 9 13
L/R Leg 13 22
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Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
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MASC CT - 2 2.00
Free Critical Slots: 31
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 8
9 0 0 0 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
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Loadout Name: Prime Cost: 17,899,529
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2,251
Equipment Type Rating Mass
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CASE Locations: LT, RT 0.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
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ECM Suite HD 0 1 1.00
MASC CT - 2 2.00
2 LRM-5s RT 4 2 2.00
2 LRM-5s LT 4 2 2.00
ER Large Laser RA 12 1 4.00
2 ER Medium Lasers LA 10 2 2.00
@LRM-5 (24) RT - 1 1.00
@LRM-5 (24) LT - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 17
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 23
9 3 3 2 0 2 1 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ECM, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1
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Loadout Name: A Cost: 18,522,823
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2,290
Equipment Type Rating Mass
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Jumping MP: 6 (Standard)
Jump Jet Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
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ECM Suite HD 0 1 1.00
MASC CT - 2 2.00
Active Probe RT 0 1 1.00
Targeting Computer LT - 2 2.00
ER PPC RA 15 2 6.00
Free Critical Slots: 19
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 23
9/4j 2 2 2 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, PRB, RCN, ECM, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
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Loadout Name: B Cost: 17,691,248
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 1,956
Equipment Type Rating Mass
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CASE Locations: LT, RT 0.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
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MASC CT - 2 2.00
2 ER Small Lasers RT 4 2 1.00
LRM-15 RA 5 2 3.50
Artemis IV FCS RA - 1 1.00
LRM-15 LA 5 2 3.50
Artemis IV FCS LA - 1 1.00
@LRM-15 (Artemis) (8) RT - 1 1.00
@LRM-15 (Artemis) (16) LT - 2 2.00
Free Critical Slots: 16
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 20
9 4 4 3 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 2
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Loadout Name: C Cost: 17,457,779
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2,374
Equipment Type Rating Mass
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Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 12(24) 2.00
CASE Locations: RA 0.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
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MASC CT - 2 2.00
Medium Pulse Laser RT 4 1 2.00
Targeting Computer LT - 1 1.00
2 Streak SRM-4s RA 6 2 4.00
3 ER Medium Lasers LA 15 3 3.00
@Streak SRM-4 (25) RA - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 15
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 24
9 5 5 0 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
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Loadout Name: D Cost: 17,618,592
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 1,931
Equipment Type Rating Mass
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CASE Locations: LT, RT 0.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
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Active Probe HD 0 1 1.00
MASC CT - 2 2.00
Medium Pulse Laser RT 4 1 2.00
Flamer RT 3 1 0.50
SRM-4 RT 3 1 1.00
Medium Pulse Laser LT 4 1 2.00
SRM-4 LT 3 1 1.00
3 ER Small Lasers RA 6 3 1.50
2 Machine Guns RA 0 2 0.50
2 Machine Guns LA 0 2 0.50
3 ER Small Lasers LA 6 3 1.50
@SRM-4 (25) RT - 1 1.00
@MG (1/2) (100) LT - 1 0.50
Free Critical Slots: 9
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 19
9 5 5 0 0 2 1 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, PRB, RCN, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
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Very nice drakensis, good stuff to get it started!
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Ahh the Black Lanner, without a doubt one of the worst drawn Mech's in TRO3058 and do reach that takes some serious work considering that books many many stinkers in the art department. Unlike the art though 3058 didn't produce many in the way of stinker designs. But IMO the Black Lanner's one that really tries to do too much and suffers for it with its rather measly 13 tons of pod space. I'd say the MASC would need to go and this would probably solve some of that tonnage problems but its still woefully undergunned for a 55-tonner, but blisteringly fast.
I'll have a look at what I can come up with :)
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Hábrók(Black Lanner)
Description
Seen recently within Clan Jade Falcon forces in the Inner Sphere, the Hábrók is a fast medium OmniMech that appears to be able to be used in a variety of roles. Named after a hawk from Norse mythology by the Lyran Captain that first encountered this new deign. Our AFFC forces have since then run into several different varieties of this OmniMech. Based upon encounters it seems to be replacing their Black Hawk and Ryukken designs as these have been sighted much less in any engagements between our two forces.
The Hábrók is often seen in conjunction with lighter designs. Mixed stars of Hábrók ’s, Veðrfölnir's “Fire Falcons†and Dashers seem to be common, with the lighter 'Mechs acting as spotters and harassers for the heavier 'Mechs, flushing out the opposing units for the Hábrók to move in for the kill.
Weapons and Equipment
The Hábrók makes use of all weight-saving technology available to the clans, including an XL Engine, Endo Steel, and eight tons of Ferro-Fibrous armor. It also includes a MASC system on the base chassis that enables it to run up to 151 km/h in bursts, allowing it to outrun many of our 'Mechs. The design sacrifices its arsenal for that speed, leaving a mere thirteen tons for weaponry.
The primary configuration of the Hábrók is effective at all ranges. At long range, it can make use of an ER Large Laser and LRM-15. When it closes in, it can attack with a ER Medium Laser and an SRM-6 that can exploit holes in its opponent's armor. An ECM Suite protects it from many forms of electronics.
Alternate Configurations
Alt. Config. A
The "A" is configured for electronic warfare and scouting. It uses an Active Probe to find hidden units, an ECM Suite to counteract enemy electronics, and a TAG spotting laser to designate targets for homing artillery. Offensively, it can call upon a Large Pulse Laser and a pair of Medium Pulse Lasers with deadly accuracy.
Alt. Config. B
This dedicated fire-support model uses a pair of LRM-15s, fitted with Artemis IV FCS, though they can only call upon three tons of ammunition. Twin ER Smalls are equipped for any forces it may encounter at short ranges.
Alt. Config. C
The "C" is a close-support variant that mounts five ER Medium Lasers and a Streak SRM-6. All 5 ER Mediums are tied into a Targeting Computer. It also uses three additional double heat sinks to help combat heat levels.
Alt. Config. D
This brawler mounts pairs of SRM-6, Medium Pulse Lasers & Flamers. 8 Machine Guns ensure that this configuration is devastating to conventional infantry and a serious threat to combat vehicles. An Active Probe ensures that it is rarely surprised.
Alt. Config. E
The “E†Variant is designed to act on its own as a light mech hunter killer. The only variant that is outfitted with jump jets allowing increased mobility on the battlefield. Its primary weapon an ER-PPC can kill many light ‘Mechs with a single shot. Paired with a SRM 6, ER Medium and ER Small for increased punch when its able to maneuver its way behind similar and larger sized ‘Mechs on the field.
PrimeWeapons Loc Heat
ER Large Laser RA 12
LRM 15 LT 5
SRM 6 RT 4
ER Medium Laser LA 5
Ammo Loc Shots
LRM 15 Ammo LT 8
SRM 6 Ammo RT 15
Equipment Loc
MASC CT
ECM Suite HD
Alt. Config. A
Weapons Loc Heat
Medium Pulse Laser LA 4
Medium Pulse Laser LA 4
Clan TAG LT 0
Large Pulse Laser RA 10
Equipment Loc
Active Probe RT
MASC CT
ECM Suite HD
Alt. Config. BWeapons Loc Heat
LRM 15 RA 5
LRM 15 LA 5
ER Small Laser RA 2
ER Small Laser LA 2
Ammo Loc Shots
LRM 15 Ammo LT 8
LRM 15 Ammo LT 8
LRM 15 Ammo RT 8
Equipment Loc
MASC CT
Artemis IV FCS RA
Artemis IV FCS LA
Alt. Config. C Weapons Loc Heat
ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Medium Laser RA 5
ER Medium Laser RA 5
ER Medium Laser RA 5
Streak SRM 6 LA 4
Ammo Loc Shots
Streak SRM 6 Ammo LT 15
Equipment Loc
MASC CT
Targeting Computer RT
Alt. Config. D Weapons Loc Heat
Medium Pulse Laser RA 4
Medium Pulse Laser LA 4
Machine Gun RA 0
Machine Gun RA 0
Machine Gun RA 0
Machine Gun RA 0
Machine Gun LA 0
Machine Gun LA 0
Machine Gun LA 0
Machine Gun LA 0
Flamer RA 3
Flamer LA 3
SRM 6 LT 4
SRM 6 RT 4
Ammo Loc Shots
Half Machine Gun Ammo LT 100
Half Machine Gun Ammo RT 100
SRM 6 Ammo RT 15
Equipment Loc
MASC CT
Active Probe HD
Alt. Config. EWeapons Loc Heat
ER PPC RA 15
SRM 6 RT 4
ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Small Laser LA 2
Ammo Loc Shots
SRM 6 Ammo RT 15
Equipment Loc Crits
MASC CT 2
Jump Jets LT 3
Jump Jets RT 3
Not sure about the name yet, I looked up Norse Birds as its in Lyran area, but originally when came up with it, it was Protean which was in relation to its versatility
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Just make sure you check your math Bradshaw and no chin scratching! ;D
Can't wait to see what you can come up with marauder648!
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Black Lanner - Sturmadler ‘Storm Eagle’
With a largely ‘slow’ force of Light Mechs filling out their Tourman with the Uller being their main light Mech the Falcons Strike and Eye Stars are often at a disadvantage compared to other Clan forces. This in turn forced them to rely on larger Mechs but they lack a large number of Fenris Mechs unlike the Wolves who seem to use them for everything.
This changed as of eight months ago when a new Falcon Medium was sighted in a raid. The Mech was clocked at over 150kph and it is only thanks to the BattleROMs of the Mechs it downed that we have much information about the new design. Paired with a Star of the equally new Veðrfölnir the Mechs were able to blind elements of the 32nd Guards and this lead to the raid being cancelled when heavier Falcon forces caught them on a flank march.
Since then the new Mech designated ‘Sturmadler’ has been sighted as part of several different Clusters and these numbers are increasing. These Mechs also vary slightly from the initial ones seen on La Grave and it is believed those spotted on that world were either undergoing field tests or the Falcons have since adjusted their configurations to match battlefields in the Inner Sphere.
Design
As with many Clan Mechs the full range of weight saving materials are used on the Sturmadler with both Ferro-Fibrous plate (an estimated 8-tons worth of protection) and an endo-steel skeleton used to provide structural strength and lightness. The huge engine a 385-rated engine is an XL one and a MASC system is also fitted (the Clans still not thankfully using TSM, an oddity considering how hot many of their Mechs run). Despite the weight saving measures the huge weight of the massive engine and the thick armour reduces pod space to a meger 13 tons and this severely limits the warload the Sturmadler can carry.
Variants
Prime – Built to engage at all ranges the Prime is a threat at long ranges thanks to its ER Large laser and Artemis IV enhanced LRM-15 which draws from a 2-ton ammo bin. Short range firepower comes from a pair of ER Medium lasers whilst at the shortest ranges an ER Small laser can be brought to bear. This is different from the initial models who had a SRM and ECM at the cost of a smaller LRM rack and no Artemis.
Black Lanner Prime
Clan TW
55 tons
BV: 2,317
Cost: 17,728,932 C-bills
Movement: 7/11(14)
Engine: 385 XL
Heat Sinks: 10 [20]
Gyro: Standard Gyro
Internal: 91 (Endo-Steel)
Armor: 153/185 (Ferro-Fibrous)
Internal Armor
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Center Torso 18 25
Center Torso (rear) 7
Right Torso 13 16
Right Torso (rear) 5
Left Torso 13 16
Left Torso (rear) 5
Right Arm 9 13
Left Arm 9 13
Right Leg 13 22
Left Leg 13 22
Weapon Loc Heat
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ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Large Laser RA 12
LRM 15 LT 5
ER Small Laser HD 2
Ammo Loc Shots
----------------------------------------
LRM 15 Ammo LT 8
LRM 15 Ammo LT 8
Equipment Loc
----------------------------------
MASC CT
Artemis IV FCS LT
!MechView.CarringCapacity!One battle armor squad
A - Designed as an ambush predator the A is built for what the Clans would consider close quarters combat but by our standards is still mid ranged despite our technological improvements over the years. A quartet of ER medium lasers and pair of Streak SRM-6 launchers give this Mech a vicious bite whilst an extra ton of cooling equipment can help counter some of the heat the weapons pump out. With its high ground speed the A is a formidable threat to Scout and Medium Mechs and it can rapidly flank slower Mechs to attack them from weakened spots or behind. This variant also features hand actuators making it adept at raiding as it can carry off objects.
Black Lanner A
Clan TW
55 tons
BV: 2,344
Cost: 17,694,154 C-bills
Movement: 7/11(14)
Engine: 385 XL
Heat Sinks: 11 [22]
Gyro: Standard Gyro
Internal: 91 (Endo-Steel)
Armor: 153/185 (Ferro-Fibrous)
Internal Armor
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Center Torso 18 25
Center Torso (rear) 7
Right Torso 13 16
Right Torso (rear) 5
Left Torso 13 16
Left Torso (rear) 5
Right Arm 9 13
Left Arm 9 13
Right Leg 13 22
Left Leg 13 22
Weapon Loc Heat
----------------------------------------
Streak SRM 6 LT 4
Streak SRM 6 RT 4
ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Medium Laser RA 5
ER Medium Laser RA 5
Ammo Loc Shots
----------------------------------------
Streak SRM 6 Ammo LT 15
Streak SRM 6 Ammo RT 15
Equipment Loc
----------------------------------
MASC CT
!MechView.CarringCapacity!One battle armor squad
B - Built for direct and indirect fire support the B apes the Prime's armament but also improves upon it. A LRM-20 and ER large laser comprise its main armament and allow the Mech to engage at long range and with indirect fire if needed. A 3-ton ammo bin for the LRM keeps the Mech in battles longer than one might expect for Clan Mech's so be aware of this. If you think its out of ammo, it's probably not. Save for the Artemis IV system built into the missile launcher there are no other weapons or support equipment fitted on the B.
Black Lanner B
Clan TW
55 tons
BV: 2,117
Cost: 17,600,573 C-bills
Movement: 7/11(14)
Engine: 385 XL
Heat Sinks: 10 [20]
Gyro: Standard Gyro
Internal: 91 (Endo-Steel)
Armor: 153/185 (Ferro-Fibrous)
Internal Armor
--------------------------------------
Center Torso 18 25
Center Torso (rear) 7
Right Torso 13 16
Right Torso (rear) 5
Left Torso 13 16
Left Torso (rear) 5
Right Arm 9 13
Left Arm 9 13
Right Leg 13 22
Left Leg 13 22
Weapon Loc Heat
----------------------------------------
ER Large Laser LA 12
LRM 20 RA 6
Ammo Loc Shots
----------------------------------------
LRM 20 Ammo RA 6
LRM 20 Ammo RA 6
LRM 20 Ammo RA 6
Equipment Loc
----------------------------------
MASC CT
Artemis IV FCS RA
!MechView.CarringCapacity!One battle armor squad
C - Clearly a lesson learned from Tukkayid the C is able to engage vehicles and VTOL units as well as hostile Mechs at long to mid range. A LB-5X autocannon might seem like a poor choice considering its weight (and its 2-tons of ammo eating up more precious pod space) but on a Mech this mobile it makes sense. It allows the C to act like a very mobile AA platform as well as having the mobility to control the engagement. For shorter ranged work a quartet of ER Medium lasers can quickly melt through targets, allowing this thing to punch nearly as hard as a full alpha strike from a standard Rifleman without risking blowing up due to overheating itself and with protection more than a thin layer or plating over it too.
Black Lanner C
Clan TW
55 tons
BV: 2,022
Cost: 17,511,448 C-bills
Movement: 7/11(14)
Engine: 385 XL
Heat Sinks: 10 [20]
Gyro: Standard Gyro
Internal: 91 (Endo-Steel)
Armor: 153/185 (Ferro-Fibrous)
Internal Armor
--------------------------------------
Center Torso 18 25
Center Torso (rear) 7
Right Torso 13 16
Right Torso (rear) 5
Left Torso 13 16
Left Torso (rear) 5
Right Arm 9 13
Left Arm 9 13
Right Leg 13 22
Left Leg 13 22
Weapon Loc Heat
----------------------------------------
LB 5-X AC RA 1
ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Medium Laser LA 5
ER Medium Laser LA 5
Ammo Loc Shots
----------------------------------------
LB 5-X AC Ammo RA 20
LB 5-X Cluster Ammo RA 20
Equipment Loc
----------------------------------
MASC CT
!MechView.CarringCapacity!One battle armor squad
D - Another Tukkayid lesson the Falcons are seemingly embracing is a heavier reliance on energy weapons following the huge logistic problems the Clans encountered in that battle. The D is an example of this shift in doctrine and seems to serve as a 'gun' for Eye and Strike Stars who tend to emphasise close quarters firepower. Its paired ER Large and paired ER Small lasers are all linked into a targetting computer, making the D a threat at all ranges and it has enough cooling to run and gun its main armament all day. Currently we're formulating a response to a fast and very mobile sniper.
Black Lanner D
Clan TW
55 tons
BV: 2,343
Cost: 17,241,167 C-bills
Movement: 7/11(14)
Engine: 385 XL
Heat Sinks: 12 [24]
Gyro: Standard Gyro
Internal: 91 (Endo-Steel)
Armor: 153/185 (Ferro-Fibrous)
Internal Armor
--------------------------------------
Center Torso 18 25
Center Torso (rear) 7
Right Torso 13 16
Right Torso (rear) 5
Left Torso 13 16
Left Torso (rear) 5
Right Arm 9 13
Left Arm 9 13
Right Leg 13 22
Left Leg 13 22
Weapon Loc Heat
----------------------------------------
ER Large Laser LA 12
ER Large Laser RA 12
ER Small Laser LA 2
ER Small Laser RA 2
Equipment Loc
----------------------------------
MASC CT
Targeting Computer RT
!MechView.CarringCapacity!One battle armor squad
E - A dedicated infantry and battle suit hunter the E has clearly evolved to face Inner Sphere forces and the growing number of Battle Armour that we are able to face as well as engaging conventional infantry forces. The E also could be used as a scout thanks to its active probe but it lacks an ECM or a TAG, although the later is not a major loss considering the disdain that the Falcons hold for Artillery weaponry.
It is vital that friendly forces do not close with an E as it has a formidable short range armament but with its speed the E will be a threat that should not be ignored.
Black Lanner E
Clan TW
55 tons
BV: 1,898
Cost: 17,432,301 C-bills
Movement: 7/11(14)
Engine: 385 XL
Heat Sinks: 15 [30]
Gyro: Standard Gyro
Internal: 91 (Endo-Steel)
Armor: 153/185 (Ferro-Fibrous)
Internal Armor
--------------------------------------
Center Torso 18 25
Center Torso (rear) 7
Right Torso 13 16
Right Torso (rear) 5
Left Torso 13 16
Left Torso (rear) 5
Right Arm 9 13
Left Arm 9 13
Right Leg 13 22
Left Leg 13 22
Weapon Loc Heat
----------------------------------------
ER Small Laser LA 2
ER Small Laser LA 2
ER Small Laser LA 2
ER Small Laser LA 2
Small Pulse Laser RA 2
Flamer RA 3
Flamer RA 3
ER Medium Laser RT 5
ER Medium Laser LT 5
ER Medium Laser RA 5
Equipment Loc
----------------------------------
MASC CT
Active Probe HD
!MechView.CarringCapacity!One battle armor squad
-
Oh very nice marauder648!!
-
Just bumping the current contest up with a one week to go warning for all my interested friends out there. ;)
-
Overview
Following the Truce and the launch of Operation Restoration, Clan Jade Falcon was faced with difficult choices to make. Should they drop all their recent research and production efforts and follow the new concepts or use their investments wisely with new designs like the Black Lanner and the Fire Hawk (both designs being infamous in the Lyran Commonwealth for their use together as the Rapier and the Stiletto, the weapons used with great effect in the Spanish fencing school)?
The solution for their dilemma came with a proposal by Clan Ice Hellion. Having just stopped the production of the Stormcrow, they were looking for a new design that might complement their Touman and the Black Lanner was seen as one. In a typical Ice Hellion way, they rushed in and set up a Trial of Possession that ended in a draw. After that, both Merchant Castes approached their Khans with a proposal: let the old factory produce Black Lanners for both Clans while the new Hector Mech Works Facility Zeta working together with Clan Jade Falcon Scientists would try to improve this OmniMech and at the same time, Clan Ice Hellion would create a brand new factory for it in the Inner Sphere with the production divided between both Clans and an unit from Ice Hellion Touman to protect it.
After much debates and several Trials of Refusal, this proposal was finally accepted and the work on it began.
Capabilities
Looking at each Configurations, both Clans tried to improve them while keeping their spirit, something that was complex to do because of the rather low free weight available.
After looking at Configuration Prime, it was decided to drop the SRM-6 and to improve both the efficiency and the endurance of the LRM-10 with an Artemis-IV system and an extra ton of ammunition. Thanks to the lack of minimal range of their weapons, the loss of the shorter range weapons was not felt by the Clans and the burden on the Heat Sinks was a bit relieved. As a deterrent against infantry, a Flamer was added.
Configuration A was first and foremost designed with scouting and electronical warfare in mind and after the battles of Operation Revival, this was still needed. However, neither Clan Jade Falcon nor Clan Ice Hellion were keen on using artillery systems, leading to the removal of the TAG system. This combined with the change of the Medium Pulse Lasers for ER ones allowed the use of a Targeting Computer in the Left Torso, adding head-hunting operations to those performed by the Black Lanner A. As a stop measure against ambush made by infantry units 2 Machine Guns (one in the Right Arm and the other in the Right Torso) were added with half-a-ton of ammo for it.
As the dedicated fire support Configuration, Configuration B was a problem on its own: with a huge missile loads but no endurance and no secondary weapons, it suited too well the traditional duelling approach of the Clans. To improve it, two LRM-15 and two tons of ammo were put into the torsos instead of the bigger LRM-20. To allow it to fight even if empty ammunition bays, two ER Medium Lasers were added, turning it into a lighter and more mobile Archer.
As with Configuration B, Configuration C had some problems because it didn’t have enough Heat Sinks to deal with the heat generated by its massive weapon load at short ranges. The solution from Clan Ice Hellion was to make it like a Piranha. By dropping the Streak system and one ER Medium Laser, 6 ER Small ones were added all linked to a Targeting Computer for focusing on the weakened parts of the armour. The last move was to split the Lasers all along the different locations to avoid any lucky hit destroying most of the Black Lanner firepower.
Configuration D was first and foremost focusing on destroying infantry, battle armour and tank units. Trying to make it an efficient city fighter too, Clan Jade Falcon decided to replace the SRM-6 by SRM-4 and to drop two Machine Guns and the ER Small Lasers for another Flamer and 4 Jump Jets, allowing it to jump up to 120 meters and in spite of its lesser firepower, giving it an edge when more mobility is needed.
Using the speed of the Black Lanner as its main assets, Clan Ice Hellion decided to go for Configuration E, a pure energy boat, one that could appeal to Clan Goliath Scorpion. With one Large Pulse Laser in the Right Torso and two Medium Pulse Lasers, all linked to a targeting computer (this liberal use of targeting computers on so many designs is seen by some as the proof of the decrease in the quality of the Warriors of both Clans, something that is challenged by every member of both Clans and so far with success). To be sure that no one is allowed an “unfair†advantage to take down this lonely hunter, an ECM Suite was added.
Configuration F is designed as a variant of Configuration D but one focusing more on fighting against all kind of opponents. Two Medium Pulse Lasers and two small ones provide the backbone of its energy firepower while 2 Streak SRM-4 and 2 Machine Guns are there to finish weakened opponents.
Configuration G is obviously a duelling design with a torso-mounted UAC/10 backed up by 3 tons of ammo. Thanks to its speed, the Black Lanner should have no problem to get in and out, targeting again and again the same area from its opponent.
Configuration H is a strange one that looks a bit like a Shadow Hawk with a LB 5-X in its torso with two tons of ammo, 2 LRM-5 in the other torso and one ER Medium Laser in the Right Arm. The reason behind this Configuration is still unknown. Some have argued that it might be designed to fight against Fighters but no satisfying answer has been given so far.
Battle History
Several Black Lanners were among the forces defending Persistence against the raid made by Clan Steel Viper Beta Galaxy. Thanks to them taking care of the Aerospace Fighters of the invaders (mostly with the combined use of Configurations H and B), they freed their own Aerospace Fighters from aerial superiority fights, allowing them to focus on close air support missions, one of the reasons that turned the raid into a three months long battle.
Deployment
New production runs of Black Lanners have been sent to both Clans where they are replacing older ‘Mechs in medium-weighted units, increasing their flexibility by being able to work efficiently with almost all lighter designs.
The older units are not lost and are mothballed for later use or to be used in specific missions where more generalist designs might not be as efficient.
Notable ‘MechWarriors
‘MechWarrior Shaw is an expert in the use of the Black Lanner, first the old one and now the new Configurations too. Member of a Reconnaissance Star, he has trained to use hit-and-fade attacks while supporting his star mates and fighting according to Zellbringen.
Black Lanner
Mass: 55 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped Omnimech
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 16 360 573 C-Bills
Battle Value: 836
Chassis: JF 5 Light Endo Steel Endo-Steel
Power Plant: 385 JF Extralight 385 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 75,6 km/h
Maximum Speed: 118,8 km/h (151,2 km/h)
Jump Jets: Unknown
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Compound JF Ferro-Fibrous Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
13.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Ironhold Alpha Complex
Primary Factory: Ironhold
Communications System: JF Integrated
Targeting and Tracking System: Series JFVIII Integrated
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel 91 points 3,00
Internal Locations: 3 LT, 2 RA, 2 LL
Engine: XL Fusion Engine 385 22,00
Walking MP: 7
Running MP: 11 (14)
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 10(20) 0,00
Gyro: Standard 4,00
Cockpit: Standard 3,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 153 8,00
Armor Locations: 3 RT, 2 LA, 2 RL
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 18 25
Center Torso (rear) 7
L/R Torso 13 16
L/R Torso (rear) 5
L/R Arm 9 13
L/R Leg 13 22
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MASC CT - 2 2,00
Free Critical Slots: 31
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 8
9 0 0 0 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
================================================================================
Loadout Name: Prime Cost: 17 955 135
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2 273
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE Locations: LT 0,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA R: SH+UA+LA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ECM Suite HD 0 1 1,00
MASC CT - 2 2,00
Flamer RT 3 1 0,50
LRM-10 LT 4 1 2,50
Artemis IV FCS LT - 1 1,00
ER Large Laser RA 12 1 4,00
2 ER Medium Lasers LA 10 2 2,00
@LRM-10 (Artemis) (24) LT - 2 2,00
Free Critical Slots: 20
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 23
9 3 3 2 0 2 1 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ECM, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1
================================================================================
Loadout Name: A Cost: 18 187 151
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2 657
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE Locations: RT 0,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA R: SH+UA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ECM Suite HD 0 1 1,00
MASC CT - 2 2,00
Active Probe RT 0 1 1,00
Machine Gun RT 0 1 0,25
Targeting Computer LT - 2 2,00
ER PPC RA 15 2 6,00
Machine Gun RA 0 1 0,25
2 ER Medium Lasers LA 10 2 2,00
@MG (1/2) (100) RT - 1 0,50
Free Critical Slots: 19
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 27
9 4 3 2 0 2 1 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ECM, PRB, RCN, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
================================================================================
Loadout Name: B Cost: 17 570 154
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2 193
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE Locations: LT, RT 0,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MASC CT - 2 2,00
LRM-15 RT 5 2 3,50
LRM-15 LT 5 2 3,50
ER Medium Laser RA 5 1 1,00
ER Medium Laser LA 5 1 1,00
@LRM-15 (16) RT - 2 2,00
@LRM-15 (16) LT - 2 2,00
Free Critical Slots: 17
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 22
9 4 4 2 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, LRM 2/2/2, IF 2
================================================================================
Loadout Name: C Cost: 17 350 635
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2 671
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 13(26) 3,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA R: SH+UA+LA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ER Medium Laser HD 5 1 1,00
MASC CT - 2 2,00
ER Medium Laser RT 5 1 1,00
2 ER Small Lasers RT 4 2 1,00
Targeting Computer RT - 2 2,00
ER Medium Laser LT 5 1 1,00
ER Medium Laser RA 5 1 1,00
2 ER Small Lasers RA 4 2 1,00
ER Medium Laser LA 5 1 1,00
2 ER Small Lasers LA 4 2 1,00
Free Critical Slots: 10
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 27
9 6 6 0 0 2 2 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
================================================================================
Loadout Name: D Cost: 17 823 967
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 1 680
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jumping MP: 4 (Standard)
Jump Jet Locations: 2 LT, 2 RT 2,00
CASE Locations: LT, RT 0,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Active Probe HD 0 1 1,00
MASC CT - 2 2,00
Flamer RT 3 1 0,50
SRM-4 RT 3 1 1,00
Flamer LT 3 1 0,50
SRM-4 LT 3 1 1,00
Medium Pulse Laser RA 4 1 2,00
Machine Gun RA 0 1 0,25
Medium Pulse Laser LA 4 1 2,00
Machine Gun LA 0 1 0,25
@SRM-4 (25) RT - 1 1,00
@SRM-4 (25) LT - 1 1,00
@MG (1/2) (100) LT - 1 0,50
Free Critical Slots: 11
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 17
9/3j 4 3 0 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, PRB, RCN, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, SRM 1/1/0
================================================================================
Loadout Name: E Cost: 17 386 092
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2 236
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ECM Suite HD 0 1 1,00
MASC CT - 2 2,00
Large Pulse Laser RT 10 2 6,00
Targeting Computer LT - 2 2,00
Medium Pulse Laser RA 4 1 2,00
Medium Pulse Laser LA 4 1 2,00
Free Critical Slots: 20
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 22
9 3 3 2 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ECM, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
================================================================================
Loadout Name: F Cost: 17 244 654
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 1 826
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE Locations: LT, RT 0,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MASC CT - 2 2,00
Small Pulse Laser RT 2 1 1,00
Streak SRM-4 RT 3 1 2,00
Small Pulse Laser LT 2 1 1,00
Streak SRM-4 LT 3 1 2,00
Machine Gun RA 0 1 0,25
Medium Pulse Laser RA 4 1 2,00
Machine Gun LA 0 1 0,25
Medium Pulse Laser LA 4 1 2,00
@MG (1/2) (100) RT - 1 0,50
@Streak SRM-4 (25) RT - 1 1,00
@Streak SRM-4 (25) LT - 1 1,00
Free Critical Slots: 16
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 18
9 5 4 0 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
================================================================================
Loadout Name: G Cost: 17 077 448
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 1 458
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE Locations: LT 0,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MASC CT - 2 2,00
Ultra AC/10 RT 3 4 10,00
@Ultra AC/10 (30) LT - 3 3,00
Free Critical Slots: 24
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 15
9 2 2 2 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
================================================================================
Loadout Name: H Cost: 17 337 654
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 1 575
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE Locations: LT, RT 0,00
Actuators: L: SH+UA+LA+H R: SH+UA+LA+H
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MASC CT - 2 2,00
2 LRM-5s RT 4 2 2,00
LB 5-X AC LT 1 4 7,00
ER Medium Laser RA 5 1 1,00
@LRM-5 (24) RT - 1 1,00
@LB 5-X (Cluster) (20) LT - 1 1,00
@LB 5-X (Slug) (20) LT - 1 1,00
Free Critical Slots: 17
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 16
9 2 2 1 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, IF 1
-
Very nice Ice Hellion! Now we are waiting on Abele or some other interested party to make this a five way challenge which would be our first ever. ;)
-
Here you go guys. apologies if there are any crossovers with other folks new configs.
The following report was intercepted by the crew of the JFS Shadow Hawk, a Bugeye-class vessel detached to the Jade Falcon Watch.
Black Lanner
Mass: 55 tons
Tech Base: Clan
Chassis Config: Biped Omnimech
Rules Level: Tournament Legal
Era: Clan Invasion
Tech Rating/Era Availability: E/X-X-E-A
Production Year: 3052
Cost: 16,360,573 C-Bills
Battle Value: 836
Chassis: Unknown Endo-Steel
Power Plant: Unknown 385 Fusion XL Engine
Walking Speed: 75.6 km/h
Maximum Speed: 118.8 km/h (151.2 km/h)
Jump Jets: None
Jump Capacity: 0 meters
Armor: Unknown Ferro-Fibrous
Armament:
13.0 tons of pod space.
Manufacturer: Unknown
Primary Factory: Unknown
Communications System: Unknown
Targeting and Tracking System: Unknown
Overview:
FROM: Hauptmann Sebastian Begay
S-2, 239th Avalon Hussars
TO: Leutnant-General Kasimir Gassner
Field Intelligence Bureau
Lyran High Command
The following report is an analysis of a failed raid by elements of the 39th
Avalon Hussars and the Storm's Metal Thunder Mercenary Command on the Jade
Falcon controlled planet of Black Earth. The combined force of Task Force
Armand consisted of twenty-four Battlemechs and a platoon each of Standard,
Sloth and Infiltrator battle armor and their transports faced off against a for
of 15 Jade Falcon OmniMechs and at least 25 Elementals.
The ensuing battle did not go well from the start for Task Force Armand as a
star of Black Lanners managed to circle around the task force and drop a star
of Elementals and then engaged the taask force from their rear. Using their
superior speed, the force of Black Lanners, known by the Hussars as the Kicking
Bird, managed to destroy or disable eight Battlemechs and entirely decimate the
attached battle armor. The Jade Falcon Elementals seemed to take great pleasure
in destroying the battle armor as they left not a single operational suit on
the field.
Battleroms from the task force survivors showed that their were eight Black
Lanners in the Jade Falcon force along with three Thors, two Lokis and two Kit
Foxs. Of the eight Black Lanners, five were of configurations that had not been
part of the latest intelligence brief. Three of these visually resembled the
known Prime, Alpha and Beta configurations provided to us by ComGuards, while
the other two seemed to be entirely new configurations, including one that had
jump capability.
The raid was a complete catastrophe as only seven friendly Battlemech managed
to return to their DropShips. of the seventeen Mechwarriors that lost their Mech,
only eight could be recovered by the hovercraft crews that initially
transported the battle armor. Had it not been for the task force's Aerospace
fighters, we fear that the entire force would have been destroyed or captured.
From what coul be gained from the battleroms the Jade Falcon force suffered the
loss of no less than four OmniMechs and seven Elementals.
Kicking Bird Prime: Similar to the original Black Lanner Prime, this
config replaces the ER large laser replaced by an ER PPC and the ER medium
lasers replaced by small pulse lasers. To make from these changes the LRM and
SRM launchers downsized. The ECM suite wa repalced with an Active Probe.
Kicking Bird A: Retaining the electronic warfare suite of the original,
this new configuration features a large pulse laser and pair each of ER medium
and small pulse lasers as its offensive weapons.
Kicking Bird B: This new B configuration replaces the originals LRM-20s
with a trio of LRM-10s and a total of three tons of ammunition. Secondary
offensive capability is provided by a pair of arm-mounted ER medium lasers and
a head-mounted ER small laser.
Kicking Bird C: An entirely new configuration that features six jump jets
for added battlefield maneuverability. Offensive firepower consists of a trio
of Medium pulse laser and a pair of ER medium lasers. This makes for an ideal
head hunter Mech.
Kicking Bird D: Another nw configuration, this is the first use an
autocannon as its main weapon. In this case it is a Class 5 LB-X autocannon.
Additional firepower is provided by ER large laser mounted in the left arm and
a head-mounted ER medium laser.
================================================================================
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internal Structure: Endo-Steel 91 points 3.00
Internal Locations: 3 LT, 2 RA, 2 LL
Engine: XL Fusion Engine 385 22.00
Walking MP: 7
Running MP: 11 (14)
Jumping MP: 0
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 10(20) 0.00
Gyro: Standard 4.00
Cockpit: Standard 3.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Armor: Ferro-Fibrous AV - 153 8.00
Armor Locations: 3 RT, 2 LA, 2 RL
Internal Armor
Structure Factor
Head 3 9
Center Torso 18 25
Center Torso (rear) 7
L/R Torso 13 16
L/R Torso (rear) 5
L/R Arm 9 13
L/R Leg 13 22
================================================================================
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MASC CT - 2 2.00
Free Critical Slots: 31
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 8
9 0 0 0 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
================================================================================
Loadout Name: Kicking Bird Prime Cost: 17,759,448
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2,075
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE Locations: LT, RT 0.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Active Probe HD 0 1 1.00
MASC CT - 2 2.00
SRM-4 RT 3 1 1.00
LRM-5 LT 2 1 1.00
ER PPC RA 15 2 6.00
2 Small Pulse Lasers LA 4 2 2.00
@SRM-4 (25) RT - 1 1.00
@LRM-5 (24) LT - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 22
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 21
9 3 3 2 0 2 1 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, PRB, RCN, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
================================================================================
Loadout Name: Kicking Bird A Cost: 17,943,510
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2,081
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Active Probe HD 0 1 1.00
MASC CT - 2 2.00
ECM Suite RT 0 1 1.00
Small Pulse Laser RT 2 1 1.00
TAG LT 0 1 1.00
Small Pulse Laser LT 2 1 1.00
Large Pulse Laser RA 10 2 6.00
2 ER Medium Lasers LA 10 2 2.00
Free Critical Slots: 22
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 21
9 3 3 1 0 2 1 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, PRB, RCN, ECM, TAG, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
================================================================================
Loadout Name: Kicking Bird B Cost: 17,467,370
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2,133
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CASE Locations: LT, RT 0.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(R) ER Small Laser HD 2 1 0.50
MASC CT - 2 2.00
LRM-10 RT 4 1 2.50
ER Medium Laser RA 5 1 1.00
LRM-10 RA 4 1 2.50
ER Medium Laser LA 5 1 1.00
LRM-10 LA 4 1 2.50
@LRM-10 (24) RT - 2 2.00
@LRM-10 (12) LT - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 22
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 21
9 4 4 2 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA, LRM 2/2/2, IF 2
================================================================================
Loadout Name: Kicking Bird C Cost: 17,809,823
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 2,276
Equipment Type Rating Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jumping MP: 6 (Standard)
Jump Jet Locations: 3 LT, 3 RT 3.00
Heat Sinks: Double Heat Sink 12(24) 2.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Medium Pulse Laser HD 4 1 2.00
MASC CT - 2 2.00
Medium Pulse Laser RA 4 1 2.00
ER Medium Laser RA 5 1 1.00
Medium Pulse Laser LA 4 1 2.00
ER Medium Laser LA 5 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 16
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 23
9/4j 4 4 0 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, ENE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
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Loadout Name: Kicking Bird D Cost: 17,484,323
Tech Rating/Era Availability: F/X-X-E-A BV2: 1,832
Equipment Type Rating Mass
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CASE Locations: RA 0.00
Actuators: L: SH+UA R: SH+UA
Equipment Location Heat Critical Mass
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ER Medium Laser HD 5 1 1.00
MASC CT - 2 2.00
LB 5-X AC RA 1 4 7.00
ER Large Laser LA 12 1 4.00
@LB 5-X (Slug) (20) RA - 1 1.00
Free Critical Slots: 24
BattleForce Statistics
MV S (+0) M (+2) L (+4) E (+6) Wt. Ov Armor: 5 Points: 18
9 2 2 2 0 2 0 Structure: 3
Special Abilities: OMNI, CASE, SRCH, ES, SEAL, SOA
EDIT: Replaced my original Kicking Bird B as it was a direct copy of Ice Hellion's previously posted version.
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Very awesome!
For the first time we have five (drakensis, Bradshaw, marauder648, Ice Hellion, Abele) entries in a Quicksilver Upgrade contest which will go up against our already established canon variants.
Fantastic participation and there is still time left for others to jump in if you'd like!!!
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Final day for entries folks!
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Ok folks another contest has come to a close and my review process is currently underway. :)
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As my work continues on the AC/20 design challenge we take a slight break to look at the final medium OmniMech in the Quicksilver Upgrades. I expected there to be a lot of complaining about a lack of pod space but instead we have five competitors with thirty-one entries! This was quite impressive to me especially given their quality which really makes it difficult for me to pick some winners. Well time for me to stop complaining and get to it!
First off nobody disappointed when it came to choosing an InnerSphere designation. Here we had six submissions including Vinton2’s from November when he won the Fire Falcon IS name with Skadi (the Norse Goddess of Winter and the Hunt). Not a bad theme after seeing how they named their ‘Mechs (Uller, Fenris, Loki, Thor) during the Invasion. His suggestion this time around (see link below) would be Norn (singular fate goddess) which fits the theme but not sure if I really love it. Ice Hellion Rapier and Stiletto comparison fits the Black Lanner and Fire Falcon but gets away from the established theme (not bad if we were going Nueva Castile). Abele’s Kicking Bird is a good nickname certainly but not quite an official designation. I really liked the Sturmadler ‘Storm Eagle’ by marauder648 but it again departs the Norse theme although stays very Lyran. Also, I thought it might be more appropriate for a large Mech as well. The Harrier is probably the best by drakensis as it captures the essence of the design and gives it a generic designation but it does not match the theme. Habrok by Bradshaw which does match the Norse theme I had originally placed in third but research based on theme is really very apt. So, first point to Bradshaw!
https://www.ourbattletech.com/forum/index.php?topic=3422.msg43007#msg43007
Now for our second bonus point the fluff where all five contestants had taken a shot this time around. It was a little too early for such a cooperative effort at Olevetti Weaponry and the Jade Falcon Clan sorry drakensis else wise excellent. Bradshaw had a more InnerSphere based fluff which I generally look for a Clan perspective based on the Quicksilver Trials and more recent events. Abele’s captured intel report by a Falcon Bug-Eye turns the perspective nicely but I liked marauder648’s and Ice Hellion’s better. While both were very good at updating the Black Lanner Ice Hellion edged out marauder648 by a feather with a little more in-depth Clan description mentioning Ice Hellion and battles versus Steel Viper. Very nice job everyone but point Ice Hellion!
On to configurations with Primary where canon has a generalist sporting an ECM which has to bracket fire which I don’t really love. Many challenged this setup directly with an ER Large Laser/LRM combo often removing the SRM-6. Only Bradshaw kept it by removing an ER Medium but upgrading to an LRM-15 with one ton of ammo gave you only 8 shots which I don’t care for. While I considered drakenis and Ice Hellion Prime’s which were more balanced I liked marauder648 entries. While his Prime has the same problems, the others share with heat it is his B which combines an LRM-20 with Artemis and 18 shots paired with an ER Large which I liked the most. While it changes the base configuration from a do it all to a fire support machine it is quite effective and heat neutral. It can stay at range at hammer away pretty effectively. Point to maauder648!
Canon sets the pace again with Configuration A’s basis on the ER PPC which might be the best singular possible weapon that the Black Lanner can field. I like canon’s version supported by two Medium Pulses and a full electronics package (Active Probe, ECM, TAG) for recon duty. A high bar to overcome. Abele’s Prime falls in here with the generalist of the original which ain’t bad but not quite what I was looking for. Bradshaw E is more of a combatant with an SRM-6, ER Medium, and ER Small which features Jump Jets for added mobility, very nice. Ice Hellion A keeps the ECM and Active Prove while adding a Targeting Computer which is even nicer while downgrading the Medium Pulses to ERs and replacing the TAG with Machine Guns. The winner however takes both the mobility of Bradshaw and the accuracy of Ice Hellion to make an effective sniper scout which was drakensis A. The ER PPC linked to a Targeting Computer with six Jump Jets while also retaining the Active Probe and ECM is really very nice. Can stay in field forever and snipe away at any opponent effectively from range with that big gun. Point to drakensis!
With the LRM-20 now being featured in the new Primary and canon B’s lack of ammo (nine shots a piece) I think you guys can see where I am going here. Abele’s B with three LRM-10s have a dozen shots a piece like Ice’s B but lack the increased accuracy of an Artemis IV which is the most attractive to me even though you have better back up weaponry with ER Mediums. Both drakensis and Bradshaw B have that winning combo of effective fire support fed by a dozen reloads which is backed by two ER Smalls. As we have a tie for configurations it comes down to best fluff for said configuration and lastly who submitted it first. Based on these tie breakers I have to go with drakensis whose comparison to the Archer is apt and allusion to a variant which drops the ER Smalls for more salvos beats out Bradshaw solid description of his B plus he kind of did beat you to the punch bud. Point two to drakensis!!
With a Streak SRM-6 battery and six ER Mediums cooled by three additional Double Heat Sinks canon C is pretty good but there is room for improvement. Ice Hellion F features two Streak SRM-4s like drakensis C and both variants use Pulse Lasers for accuracy but drak also puts a Targeting Computer in. However, it is Bradshaw C which simply improves on canon the best by dropping an ER Medium for a one ton Targeting Computer reducing the heat problem of the original by adding accuracy. Nice job, point to Bradshaw!
For D we get nasty on infantry with a standard SRM coupled with Pulse and other minor weaponry to create a fast-moving conventional killer canon wise. This is one of canon’s best like A in my estimation especially given its role to play in combat especially since it has an Active Probe to find and kill said targets. Going more for ER Smalls (six total) and dropping the SRMs to 4 packs in drakensis D may get too far away from that role. Bradshaw D drops a ton of SRM ammo to go for more Machine Guns but this limits the duration of effectiveness of the original. I also entered marauder648 E here as well even though it lacks SRMs but it too fails to surpass canon at least when it comes to the sheer anti-infantry role established by the original at least in my estimation. I do like how it removes ammo using weaponry and stays in the field forever. Perhaps the closest to eclipsing canon was Ice Hellion D which added mobility (albeit limited 4 MP) to this configuration while reducing the SRMs like drak did. I am gonna give this one to canon though as for killing infantry something it is very useful for it is probably the best especially given its enemies Steel Viper and the InnerSphere employment of such forces. Point canon!
For our new E configuration we go right to one of the most unique but effective configurations submitted by our challengers, marauder648 D. With its twin ER Larges supported by dual ER Smalls linked to a Targeting Computer and cooled by two additional Double Heat Sinks this model is an effective ‘E’xtended range sniper that can remain in the field for long periods and harass the enemy if necessary. It can also run down fast lights attempting to do the same with its speed and weaponry range. Point two to marauder648!!
For the new F configuration I decided to focus on those entries who featured the Large Pulse Laser as their main weapon giving the Black Lanner range, accuracy, and duration on the battlefield. We had three folks go in for something like this which would come in handy as an anti-aerospace platform as well. Both Bradshaw A and Abele A were variants of the ER PPC scout configuration which were pretty darn solid. However, Ice Hellion E took a Large Pulse and two Mediums and tied them to a Targeting Computer protected by an ECM for even greater accuracy which despite targeting limitations would certainly have a place in the Clans. I could see inexperienced sibkin using this one as well. Point to Ice Hellion!
For our big gun configuration or G we could have had somebody go for the uber massive Gauss, LB 20-X, or Ultra AC/20 with a single ton of weaponry. Probably wouldn’t have been too effective but one person did submit a large ballistic weapon that I do find suitable for the Black Lanner. The Ultra AC/10 provides pretty solid firepower at mid-range which can cycle up if required to double fire. While Ice Hellion G fluff does elude to it being a dueling variant I could see it having a place in combat with pretty good staying power thanks to three tons or thirty rounds of ammunition (15 if fired twice constantly). Point two to Ice Hellion!!
A smaller ballistic weapon that three entrants tried out was the LB 5-X AC which despite its size provides good ranged firepower especially against conventional opponents. Plus this cool firing weapon helps the ten double twenty heat sinks of the Black Lanner stay cool. The accuracy of cluster rounds also makes it a good candidate for anti-air operations as well. Using four ER Mediums and two tons of ammo marauder648 C would be a great tank killer but the range of Ice Hellion H with LRM-5s is a bit more desirable for VTOLs and aircraft. Returning to the Prime configuration ER Large was the better choice I felt for reach by Abele D who also had an ER Medium for closer in support. Heat friendly and long ranged this model can easily do the job I was looking for in concert with the LB 5-X AC. Point to Abele!
Finally, because the Black Lanner has such a relatively small amount of tonnage I would really like to include a Configuration K or Knife Fighter which can get in close rapidly and unleash a large volley small weapons to batter any would be opponent. While I considered marauder648 E, Abele C, and Ice Hellion F it was another Ice Hellion configuration which won the day IMO. Ice Hellion C with its five ER Mediums and six ER Smalls can do sixty-five points of damage potentially! All eleven lasers are tied to a Targeting Computer which increases the chances of that happening. Only down side is the thirty-nine heat spike you get on a running Alpha Strike which despite three additional Double Heat Sinks means you go over by thirteen. That is concerning but the risk is worth it especially to a Clan Mechwarrior given the potential reward. Point three to Ice Hellion!!!
I guess it is only appropriate that Ice Hellion is the second Clan to get their hands on this new fast OmniMech and that their favorite son wins this contest. Well done Ice Hellion with a total of four points (3 design and 1 fluff) you are the winner this time around. Tied for second was drakensis, marauder648, and Bradshaw each with two points total (although design wise drak and marauder beat you out chin scratcher). Abele and canon round out this competition each with a design point for a very well-done challenge by everyone. Some real good concepts and high level of participation. Hope it carries over into our next contest where we will be going up in weight class. See ya soon for that one folks!
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As we come to the end of our Mediums and review the Lights let us look back at the point totals up to now. I have grouped them into our senior leaders, canon retainers, ten pointers, and limited participants (so far) ;)
drakensis - 63 (56 configurations won and 7 fluff points)
marauder648 - 42 (35.5 configurations won and 6.5 fluff points)
Abele - 32 (30 configurations won and 2 fluff points)
canon - 21 (21 configurations retained)
Red Pins - 10.5 (8 configurations won and 2.5 fluff points)
Ice Hellion - 10 (8 configurations won and 2 fluff points)
Vintion2 - 2 (1 configuration won and 1 name point)
Bradshaw - 2 (1 configuration won and 1 name point)
Still got all the Heavies and Assaults to go folks so plenty of time to make up ground! :)
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Thanks everyone for participating and I am surprised I won since I saw really nice things done by others. I think I only won because I made more Configurations. :P
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Again this contest featured an excellent variety of configurations thanks to a high level of participation. Both you and marauder648 had automatic wins with supplemental (E to I) configurations which instead of challenging established canon variants went outside the box for different options. Very nice job!