Examine individual changes

{{Otheruses|the BattleMech|the Clan faction|Crusader Clans}} {{InfoBoxBattleMech | image = 3025_crusader.jpg | name = Crusader | manufacturer = [[Kallon Industries]],<br/> [[Brigadier Corporation]],<ref name="TRO:3039p294">''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 294, "CRD-3R ''Crusader''"</ref><br/> [[Tao 'Mechworks]],<br/> [[TharHes Industries]]<br/> |production year=2752 |year reference=<ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/752/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref> | model = CRD-3R | class = Heavy |cost= 5,686,010 C-bills | mass = 65 | chassis = Crucis-B | armor = Riese-500 | engine = [[Magna 260]] | speed = 64.8 | comsys= [[Garret T11-b]]<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/> | T&T= [[Garret A6]]<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/> | heat sinks= 10 | armament = *2x [[LRM-15]]s *2x [[SRM-6]]s *2x [[Medium Laser]]s *2x [[Machine Gun]]s | BV (1.0)=948<ref name=COGen>''Combat Operations'', p. 121</ref> | BV (2.0)=1,317<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 478</ref> }} == Description == The '''''Crusader''''' was initially designed as a close combat [[BattleMech]] for the [[Star League Defense Force]], but soon proved itself to be a very adaptable, multi-role design. This reliable workhorse of the SLDF, while not excelling in any one job, was capable of accomplishing just about any mission, whether it be close assault, anti-aircraft, counter-insurgency, or even reconnaissance. Its versatility and large number of manufactures ensured the ''Crusader'' its place as one of the most common [[heavy 'Mech]]s in the [[Inner Sphere]].<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025>''Technical Readout: 3025'', p. 86</ref> The ''Crusader'' received its baptism of fire during the [[Reunification War]] and remained a common fixture in the regiments of the SLDF for many centuries. Even after the fall of the [[Star League]], the various [[Successor States]] continued to field large numbers of ''Crusaders'' in their armies, thanks to factories located on [[Tharkad]], [[Oliver]], [[Asuncion]] and [[Bernardo]]. [[House Steiner]] in particular was a notable ''Crusader'' use, thanks in part to their well-trained technicians who could have damaged units turned around and ready to fight in a single day.<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025/> A variety of new production variants and field modification kits were turned out for the ''Crusader'' after the recovery of the [[Helm Memory Core]], just in time for the [[Clan Invasion]].<ref name=TRO3050>''Technical Readout: 3050'', p. 156</ref> In the wake of the Clan Invasion, one of the first new ''Crusader'' variants was built by the [[Cosby BattleMech Research Firm]], the (in)famous producer of the ''[[No-Dachi]]'' 'Mech. Hoping to overcome the lack of prestige of their previous design and win the favor of the [[Coordinator]], the company acquired manufacturing rights to the ''Crusader'' through the hostile takeover of another company and unveiled an updated variant of the 'Mech around the start of the [[FedCom Civil War]]. Additional variants would continue to be produce in the years since, including models utilized by the [[Word of Blake]] during the [[Jihad]].<ref name=TROPP>''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', p. 40</ref> == Weapons and Equipment == The primary long-range weapons on the ''Crusader'' were two Magna Longbow-15 [[LRM-15]] launchers, providing the ''Crusader'' with long-range fire support capabilities that can compete with the ''[[Archer]]'' and ''[[Catapult]]''. These were supplied by two tons of reloads split between the side torsos. For short range combat, the 'Mech carried two Harpoon [[SRM-6]] launchers and two Intek [[Medium Laser]]s. Finally, to deter infantry attacks against the ''Crusader'', two M100 [[Machine Gun]]s were mounted on the 'Mech. One ton each of SRM and machine gun ammunition was carried in the center torso.<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 147</ref> Each arm was equipped with an LRM launcher, laser and machine gun, while the SRM launchers were built into the legs and mounted at hip height to provide a stable firing location and avoid interference with the LRMs' flight path. Early ''Crusader'' models had issues with the arm-mounter launchers and lasers overheating and causing stress to the actuators and internal structure, but this was rectified with the additions of the now-distinctive collars which deflect hot gasses away.<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025/> The ''Crusader'' was well-protected with twelve tons of armor, particularly around the legs. This not only made it a good hand-to-hand combatant but, for those so equipped, made it well-suited for performing [[Death from Above]] attacks. A thirteen and a half ton [[fusion engine]] allowed the ''Crusader'' to achieve a decent cruising speed of 43.2 km/h. One disadvantage to the ''Crusader'' was it's inadequate heat management system, carrying just ten [[heat sink]]s to handle all the waste heat produced by its weapons and equipment.<ref name="TRO:3039p294"/><ref name=TRO3025/> == Variants == *;CRD-1R : Introduced in 2596, this variant was originally produced for the [[SLDF]] during the [[Reunification War]]. It upgraded the heat sinks to [[double heat sink]]s and utilized an [[Endo Steel]] internal structure to save mass. This enabled the addition of [[Artemis IV Fire Control System]]s to the LRM and SRM launchers. All of the ammunition is located in the side torsos and protected by [[CASE]].<ref>''Master Unit List: Crusader CRD-1R''</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,504 *;CRD-2R : This variant was a simple upgrade of the CRD-1R, and produced for sale to the [[Star League]]'s Member States and Associate Member States.<ref>''Master Unit List''</ref> *;CRD-3D : The 3D variant of the ''Crusader'' is a simple modification to make the 'Mech's heat load more manageable. Introduced in [[2756]] and used mostly by [[House Davion]], the two SRM-6 launchers were replaced with two [[SRM-4]] launchers and the machine guns were removed so that the number of heat sinks could be increased by four.<ref name=TRO3025/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 144</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,020,<ref name=COFS>''Combat Operations'', p. 127</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,338<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 475</ref> *;CRD-3K : Another variant of the ''Crusader'' concentrating on lessening its heat burden, the 3K was introduced by [[House Kurita]] in [[2765]]. It downsized the LRM launchers to [[LRM-10]] models and removed the machine guns to make room for an additional six heat sinks.<ref name=TRO3025/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 145</ref> BV (1.0) = 997,<ref name=CODC>''Combat Operations'', p. 124</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,290<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 476</ref> *;CRD-3L : The 3L variant of the ''Crusader'' takes concepts from both the 3D and the 3K models to save weight with a twist. Built for [[House Liao]] starting in [[2753]], the 'Mech has removed the LRM-15 and SRM-6 launchers and replaced them with two LRM-10 launchers and two SRM-4 launchers. This frees up room for two additional heat sinks as well as the inclusion of four GM Jetstar [[jump jet]]s, two each in either side torso, giving it a jumping distance of one hundred and twenty meters.<ref name=TRO3025/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 146</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,032,<ref name=COCC>''Combat Operations'', p. 122</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,297<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 477</ref> *;CDR-4BR : A Star League-tech retrofit of the classic CRD-3R developed by [[Bander BattleMechs]] for the [[mercenary]] market in [[3054]], the 4BR switches to double heat sinks and replaces the SRM-6 launchers with a pair of Streak SRM-2s. The weight saved allows an extra ton of LRM reloads for each launcher to be carried, protected by the addition of CASE in each torso.<ref name="MH3055">''Mercenary's Handbook 3055'', p. 87</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,407<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 124</ref> *;CRD-4D : The 4D variant of the ''Crusader'' was a common field modification kit, utilizing [[Star League]] technology recovered from the [[Helm Memory Core]], used by both Davion and Liao forces starting in [[3049]]. This variant has had the medium lasers and the SRM-6 launchers removed and in their place has two [[Streak SRM-2]] launchers and two [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s mounted, along with three additional heat sinks. Davion 4Ds used Federated SuperStreak launchers and Sutel Precision Line lasers, while the Liao kits contained Hovertec Streak launchers and Magna 400P lasers.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 148</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,015,<ref name=COFS /><ref name=COCC /> BV (2.0) = 1,309<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 124</ref> *;CRD-4K : A field modification kit based on the 3K variant and introduced for Kuritan forces in 3049, the 4K removes two heat sinks and replaces the two medium lasers of the 3K with Magna 400P medium pulse models.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 149</ref> BV (1.0) = 946,<ref name=CODC /> BV (2.0) = 1,268<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 135</ref> *;CRD-5K : The 5K ''Crusader'' was a complete upgrade produced by [[Cosby Myomer Research Firm - (Cosby BattleMech Research Firm)|Cosby BattleMech Research Firm]] for House Kurita in [[3063]]. The internal structure was replaced with a Foundation CMRFa6 [[Endo Steel]] chassis and the engine upgraded to a Nissan 260 [[XL Engine]]. The 'Mech's armament was completely overhauled as well: the primary weapons were two [[Shigunga]] [[MRM 30]] launchers carried in either arm and, as secondary weapons, two [[Victory 23R]] medium lasers split between the side torsos and two [[Victory Heartbeat]] medium pulse lasers in the center torso. To allow the 5K to share targeting data, it also carried a [[C3 Slave Unit]], and four tons of MRM reloads was located in the CASE-protected left torso. Finally, to vent waste heat, the 'Mech used eleven [[double heat sink]]s and carried twelve tons of Starshield A armor. The electronics were also replaced with a Garret T-11a comm system and Garret D5j T&T system.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 150 & ''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', pp. 29-30</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,223 (C3: 183),<ref name=CODC /> BV (2.0) = 1,463<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 126</ref> *;CRD-5M : The 5M was the official production-model upgraded variant of the ''Crusader'' for the [[Free Worlds League]], introduced in 3049 and using recovered [[Star League]] technology. Though using the same Crucis-B chassis as before the 'Mech was powered by a Hermes 260 XL Engine and carried thirteen double heat sinks to vent its heat more efficiently. The 5M was also capable of jumping up to one hundred and twenty meters with its four torso-mounted jump jets. The 'Mech was armed with two Magna Longbow LRM-15 launchers and two Intek medium lasers in its arms, two Hovertec Streak SRM-2 launchers mounted in its legs, a Flame Tech [[Flamer]] and a LFN Linblad machine gun in its right arm, and a LFN Linblad Shotgun [[Anti-Missile System]] on its head. One ton of ammo for the machine gun was carried in the right arm, while two tons of LRM reloads and one ton each for the AMS and Streak launchers were carried in CASE-protected side torsos. This variant was built for the [[FWLM]] from Kallon's factories on Ascuncion and Bernardo, as well as the Brigadier plant on Oliver until that planet was captured by the [[Federated Commonwealth]], after which it began building 5Ms for the [[AFFC]].<ref name=TRO3050/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 151</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,348,<ref name=COGen /> BV (2.0) = 1,408<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 127</ref> *;CRD-5S : A production-model upgrade of the ''Crusader'' utilizing [[Star League]] equipment, the 5S was built by TharHes industries on Tharkad for FedCom forces starting in 3049. It varies little from the 3R model, instead removing the machine guns to make room for double heat sinks, CASE to protect the missile reloads, and the addition of a Flamer in the right arm.<ref name=TRO3050/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 152</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,149,<ref name=COFS /><ref name=COLA>''Combat Operations'', p. 131</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,446<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 128</ref> *;CRD-6M : This variant was produced in the Free Worlds League starting in [[3074]] during the [[Jihad]]. It carries two [[Streak SRM-4]] launchers in the legs, while each arm carries a [[Light PPC]] and [[MML-7]]. The 'Mech's top speed was reduced, so engineers fitted [[Improved Jump Jet]]s to compensate.<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 252</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,373<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 130</ref> *;CRD-7L : Utilizing some of the newest technology available in the [[Capellan Confederation]], the 7L was built by [[Tao 'Mechworks]] in [[3067]]. It used [[Stealth Armor]], making it harder to target. The 'Mech also used double heat sinks and is armed with two LRM-15 launchers, two [[Streak SRM-4]] launchers, and two [[ER Medium Laser]]s. Finally, the 'Mech carried a [[Guardian ECM Suite]] to allow its Stealth Armor to work. In order to make room, the top speed was lowered to 53 km/h by replacing the engine with a Nissan Fusion 195, though jump jets offset that through increased maneuverability. Despite its Liao origins, half of the first production run was sold to the Word of Blake.<ref name=TROPP/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', pg. 153 & ''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', p. 29</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,507,<ref name=COCC /> BV (2.0) = 1,860<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 130</ref> *;CRD-7W : The ''Crusader'' 7W introduced in [[3071]] was armed with two Krupp [[MML-9]]s and two [[MML-5]]s, which were capable of firing both LRM and SRM ammunition and were all linked to an Artemis IV FCS that increased their accuracy. These were backed up by two Diverse Optics ER Medium Lasers for close combat. In order to carry such a powerful payload, the 'Mech carried an XL Engine and an [[XL Gyro]] to save as much weight as possible. The 7W also used twelve tons of [[Light Ferro-Fibrous]] armor with CASE for protection.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 154</ref><ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 252</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,221<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 132</ref> *;CRD-8L : This Capellan ''Crusader'' variant, unveiled in [[3083]], carries two [[Plasma Rifle]]s, ER Medium Lasers, and MML-7 launchers. The top speed of the 'Mech has been increased to 86 km/h by using an [[XL Engine]], and [[Endo Steel]] reduces weight. Eleven and a half tons of armor and CASE systems were used for protection. BV (2.0) = 1,701<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 253</ref> *;CRD-8S : Created in [[3066]] with the mindset of "bigger is better", the 8S ''Crusader'' was built around an Endo Steel chassis and powered by an XL Engine. The 'Mech carried two [[LRM-10]] launchers and two [[Medium Laser]]s but was also armed with the new [[Heavy Gauss Rifle]], giving it great deal of close to medium range firepower.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 155 & ''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', p. 29</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,711,<ref name=COLA /> BV (2.0) = 1,698<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 134</ref> ===Custom Variants=== *;CDR-3R ''Crael'' : Used by "Crusading Crael", the reigning champion of the DeathRain Arena in Port Krin on [[Antallos]] in [[3057]], this heavily modified ''Crusader'' had huge spikes protruding from its chest and shoulders; the latter served to conceal missile launchers and fall off as soon as the shoulder-mounted SRMs were fired for the first time.<ref>''Royalty and Rogues'', pp. 23-24; record sheet p. 69</ref> The shoulder-mounted LRM-15 launchers of the original were replaced with two more SRM-6 racks (mounted in the side torso sections) to boost short-range firepower over the LRM's long range that was less useful in arena combat, and maximized the infighter capabilities by installing [[Claw]]s on each arm. BV (2.0) = 1,204<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 123</ref> == Notable pilots == * [[Galen Cox]], aide to Prince [[Victor Steiner-Davion]], primarily used a ''Crusader'' until his apparent death. Under his "Jerry Cranston" identity, Cox would later pilot a ''[[Devastator]]''. <ref>''Prince of Havoc'', p. 98</ref> ==BattleMech Gallery== <gallery> Image:Crd-5k crusader.jpg|CRD-5K ''Crusader'' File:CDR-Crusader.png|CRD-5M ''Crusader'' File:Crd-7l crusader.png |CRD-7L ''Crusader'' Image:CRD-8L Crusader.jpg|CRD-8L ''Crusader'' File:Crd.8s crusader.png|CRD-8S ''Crusader'' File:CrusadingCrael.jpg|"Crusading Crael's" modified CRD-3R </gallery> ==References== <references /> == Bibliography == * [http://www.battlecorps.com/BC2/news.html?article=292 ''Crusader'' description] from [[BattleCorps]] * ''[[Combat Operations]]'' * ''[[Master Unit List]]'' * ''[[Mercenary's Handbook 3055]]'' * ''[[Prince of Havoc]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3025/3026]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3050]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3067]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged - Age of War]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]'' * ''[[Royalty and Rogues]]'' * ''[[Technical Readout: 3025]]'' * ''[[Technical Readout: 3039]]'' * ''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]'' * ''[[Technical Readout: 3075]]'' * ''[[Technical Readout: 3085]]'' * ''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix]]'' * ''[[Total Warfare Style Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]'' [[Category:BattleMechs]] [[Category:Heavy BattleMechs]] [[Category:65 ton BattleMechs]] [[Category:Inner Sphere General BattleMechs]] [[Category:Missile Boat BattleMechs]] [[Category:SLDF 2750 BattleMechs]] [[Category:SLDF Royal BattleMechs]] [[Category:C3 Equipped BattleMechs]] [[Category:C3 Slave Equipped BattleMechs]] [[Category:Unseen]] [[Category:Melee BattleMechs]]