Arion
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Arion | |
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Production information | |
Manufacturer | Csesztreg Industriplex Alpha Annex |
Production Year | 3136[1] |
Model | Standard |
Class | Light |
Introduced | 3136 |
Technical specifications | |
Mass | 35 tons |
Chassis | Csesztreg QuadVee 35.2 Endo Steel |
Armor | Compound H17 Ferro-Fibrous |
Engine | Light Force (Standard) 210 |
Communications System | CH2 Series Integrated |
Targeting Tracking System | Version Gamma-V TTS |
Heat Sinks | 10 [20] (Laser) |
Speed | 97 kph km/h |
Jump Jets | None |
Armament |
1x ER Large Laser |
BV (2.0) | 849[2][3][4] |
Contents
Description
The Arion is a Light Class Hybrid Combat Vehicle/BattleMech known as a QuadVee. Designed during the 3130s by Clan Hell's Horses, its design philosophy was to enable unit to be a superior of a BattleMech while avoiding issues that a typical combat vehicle. The Arion, like others of its kind are able to transform from a tracked Combat Vehicle into a quadruped BattleMech with a torso-like tank turret.
The Arion was designed as fast moving harasser, being able to use its limited array of weaponry to snipe enemy units it would encounter. However, due to its size and limited space, Arion would be leave Warriors questioning the value of the design along with its other brethren. Initial appearance of the QuadVee allowed Clan Hell's Horses commanders to be able to bid a QuadVee as "vehicle" in Trials using Zellbrigen. Allowing these commanders to double up there forces with 'Mechs, due to a vehicle stars being typically consisting of 10 units.
During late 3130s, the Arion was only used briefly in few battles using QuadVees, starting on Derf in 3136 in Trial of Possession with Clan Jade Falcon. Some of the designs were included in an all QuadVee Binary, which fared poorly due to uncertainty on how to properly use the design and be aware of the design's limitations. The design was successful in supporting role in battle on Weingarten in 3139 against the elements of Second Tyr Assault Cluster of the Rasalhague Dominion. In less successful effort, pair of Arions were part of a Vehicle Star of the Horse's 91st Mechanized Assault Cluster raiding the Dominion world of Gunzburg, where Arion's star was crippled but the its QuadVee's unique ability to become BattleMechs allowed them to withdraw from oncoming defending Second Freemen.[2]
Weapons and Equipment
The Arion is designed for speed, powered by a 210-rated Light Force Fusion Engine. Its 97 kph top speed gives the Arion in either vehicle or Quad 'Mech mode to enable it to avoid too much damage from incoming fire. Due size of its equipment, the Arion has limited room left over for weaponry and armor protection. This left designers to choose to fit it with only 2.5 tons worth of Ferro-Fibrous armor. Due to this low armor protection and its marginal flank speeds, this left likeliness of the design being highly unlike to survive direct encounter any heavier combat units, including typical light BattleMechs.
Like all its kind, its 'Mech weaponry is concentrated in its turret-like torso, being able bring those weapons to bear on any opponent from any direction. With its dual man cockpit, the QuadVee's dedicated Gunner can target multiple targets with much trouble, unlike 'Mechs or Combat Vehicles. The Arion's primary weapon is its Series 7K Extended-Range Large Laser mounted in its center torso. Its secondary weapons are pair of Type 1 Cross-Pattern SRM 4 Launchers, one per each of its side torsos. The Chassis’ integrated CASE allows for it survive a possible ammunition explosion from its 1 ton of SRM reloads.[2]
Notes
In the Alpha Strike Rules set for BattleTech, the Arion has been given Point Value of 9, with Specials including Turret(3/3/1, SRM1/1), SRM1, CASE, and QV.[5]
Design Quirks
The Arion has the following Design Quirks:
References
- ↑ MUL online date for the Arion
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Technical Readout: 3145 The Clans, pp. 27-28 & 77 Arion - All information on the Unit.
- ↑ MUL Profile for the Arion - BV2 and Introduction Year.
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3145 Unabridged, p. 433 - BV2 Record Sheet of Arion.
- ↑ MUL Profile for the Arion - Alpha Strike Card Info.