BattleMech Jump Pack

Jump Pack

The Jump Pack is a device that allows BattleMechs without jump jets to use jump movement.

Description[edit]

Unbound Version[edit]

The Jump Pack was a one-shot jump jets alternative. Introduced near 3053 design of Dr. Priar as a way to give ground-bound 'Mechs an option to perform surprise attacks catching enemy units off-guard. The Jump Pack however cut the host 'Mech's maximum speed by half due to its bulk on the 'Mech's body and legs.[1]

Tactical Operations Version[edit]

The Jump Pack was developed by the Terran Alliance in 2457 for use as part of a combat drop. This allowed BattleMechs without jump jets to control their descent, and, once landed, they could use the Pack to jump across otherwise impassable terrain. The Jump Pack is essentially a giant backpack filled with jump jets and fuel. The weight of the unit varies depending on the application, but is no heavier than twenty tons.[2][3]

Game Rules[edit]

Unbound Version[edit]

BattleMech Jump Packs allow 'Mechs to perform a single jump equaling 9 for 40 ton 'Mechs and lighter, or 9 minus 1 per each 10 tons for more heavy 'Mechs, with weight rounded down (For 50 ton - jump 8, e.t.c ). Heat is generated as for use of regular jump jets. 'Mech speed base is reduced by half through whole game till the jump, when the Jump Pack is ejected automatically.[1]

Tactical Operations Version[edit]

A Jump Pack can weigh up to twenty tons, available in half ton units. It is carried as unprotected external cargo and if the unit using the pack is successfully attacked from the rear, the jump pack is destroyed. The full attack damage is still inflicted to the rear of the 'Mech. As the Jump Jets are chemically fueled and isolated from the 'Mech, they cause no heat to the 'Mech when used. There's a lot more information available in Tactical Operations, factoring in the weight of the jump pack, the weight of the unit equipped with the jump pack, and fuel point computations. Summing up these rules is beyond the scope of this article.

References[edit]

  1. 1.0 1.1 Unbound, p. 72, "New Tech - BattleMech Jump Pack"
  2. Tactical Operations, pp. 292-293
  3. Tactical Operations: Advanced Units & Equipment, pp. 104-105

Bibliography[edit]