User:Gomi/MW5Mercs-NewsFeed

News Feed Articles from MW5 Mercs

COMSTAR HOSTS LIAO MARIK PEACE SUMMIT ON TERRA

3014.01.15

ComStar's First Circuit welcomed Capellan Confederation Chancellor Maximilian Liao and the Free Worlds League's Duke of Procyon Anton Marik to their facilities on Hilton Head Island for a peace summit between the two Great Houses. After decades of animosity along the League's border with House Liao, Duke Marik is seeking a de-escalation in violence along the border in order to support his brother, Captain-General Janos Marik, in his fight against Steiner incursions into the League's coreward systems. The summit is expected to continue for the next two days.

FIRST PRINCE DAVION RETURNS VICTORIOUS FROM RAID AGAINST HOUSE KURITA

3014.02.07

Newly crowned First Prince Hanse Davion has returned to Federated Suns space following a successful raid against House Kurita's Halstead Station. In a press conference held on the system of Cylene, representatives of the AFFS presented evidence that House Kurita was in the process of constructing new arms and munitions supply depots in the system, with the intent to threaten hostilities along the border. An early January raid was initiated in order to neutralize the facility before it came online. When asked about Prince Davion's personal involvement in the raid, the AFFS responded: ""Preparations for the raid were planned prior to First Prince Ian Davion's death."" Hanse Davion strongly believed the mission was too important to disrupt through a change in leadership at the eleventh hour. With the raid now complete, First Prince Davion will return to New Avalon to focus on matters of the state. The January raid on Halsted Station marked the completion of Hanse Davion's first ninety days in office since acceding to the Federated Suns throne after the death of his brother Ian Davion back in October of 3013.

ANTON MARIK DECLARES WAR ON BROTHER JANOS

3014.05.22

In an explosive announcement from New Delos, Anton Marik denounced his brother, Captain-General Janos Marik as unfit to rule the Free Worlds League. Declaring himself the true Captain-General of the Free Worlds League, Anton with the backing of The Protectorate and the Duchies of Oriente and Orloff have declared war against Atreus and the Free World League Parliament. Anton calls on his brother Janos to abdicate his position so that firmer hands may lead the Free Worlds League into the future.

MAXIMILIAN LIAO APPLAUDS ANTON MARIK'S REBELLION

3014.05.23

In a statewide address, Capellan Confederation Chancellor Maximilian Liao praised Anton Marik for his bravery raising up arms against his brother. Believing the younger Marik holds a steadier head that may lead to lasting peace between the two intergalactic nations. He has pled to support Anton's claim to the Captain-Generalcy by dispatching the elite Wolf's Dragoons Mercenary unit to aid Anton in his war with Janos Marik.

IT'S WAR! JANOS MARIK REFUSES TO ABDICATE POSITION

3014.05.24

From this moment, I have no brother! Janos Marik declared in a speech made to the Free World League's parliament responding to his brother Anton's rebellion. The Captain-General would then move on to ordering an executive order to parliament proclaiming that any providence or unit that sided with the rebellion would be considered enemies of the League. Their lands, possessions and lives would be forfeit. With such draconian measures enacted in the executive order leaving no room for compromise, the Free Worlds League now finds itself plunged into a civil war.

THEODORE KURITA TO ATTEND THE SUN ZHANG MECHWARRIOR ACADEMY

3014.07.15

In an meeting with his faculty and staff Sun Zhang MechWarrior Academy Director Isoroku Kurita has announced that Theodore Kurita, son of Coordinator Takashi Kurita, has been accepted into the prestigious MechWarrior Academy and will begin his freshman year in the spring of next year. Director Kurita reminded staff that despite the presumptive heir to the Dragon being in attendance, he expected all faculty, staff, and cadets to continue uphold the honor the integrity of the elite academy.

FORMER NORTHWIND HIGHLANDER CREATES FIRST ALL FEMALE MERCENARY UNIT

3014.09.01

Elyse Laurel served with distinction for years with the elite Northwind Highlanders. Now retired from the Highlanders, Laurel has struck out to create her own mercenary unit, Laurel's Legion. But what makes Laurel's Legion unique isn't their roster's elite background, but their composition. The inaugural roster of this legion is staffed exclusively by women. Making it the first all-female BattleMech Mercenary Company in the Inner Sphere. I didn't initially intend to set out to make an all female outfit, says founder Elyse Laurel, ""I set out to start a Mercenary company with those that I served with that I trust with my life. From there it just organically developed into what it is today."" Laurel's Legion is now serving with House Liao, who also employ the Northwind Highlanders.

ARRESTED DRAGOONS EXECUTED BY ORDER OF ANTON MARIK

3015.03.15

The rebel government on New Delos, lead by Anton Marik, have executed 28 members of the famed Wolf's Dragoons mercenary unit. Including co-founder Joshua Wolf. Although the New Delos administration has not provided any official comment on the executions, sources within Anton Marik's rebellion have cited a dispute with Dragoon leadership that prompted the action. Claiming Jaime and Joshua Wolf refused redeployment orders issued by Anton Marik himself. The Protectorate government have issued arrest warrants for Jaime Wolf and the remaining Dragoons. Ordering them to return to New Delos Prime for disciplinary action immediately. The remaining Dragoons were en-route to the New Delos jump point when the arrest warrants were issued. According to New Delos Space Command, the Dragoons have begun to burn back towards New Delos Prime seemingly in compliance with the government's return orders, but the Dragoons have thus far refused all attempts to hail them for comment on the government's allegations.

NEW DELOS FALLS: ANTON MARIK KILLED BY WOLF'S DRAGOON

3015.03.30

After weeks of brutal fighting, New Delos has fallen at the hands of Wolf's Dragoons. All five Dragoon BattleMech regiments descended on New Delos with a vengeance after the execution of 28 of it's staff by Anton Marik. Including Dragoon co-founder, Joshua Wolf. Anton Marik forces held the Dragoon forces to a standstill since planet fall, but a daring raid through a forest fire into the rear walls of Marik's stronghold by Captain Natasha Kerensky and her Black Widow Company broke the stalemate when her Warhammer, ""Black Widow,"" smashed through the rear walls of Marik's fortress killing Anton Marik in the collapsing rubble. The bastard got off easy. Kerensky would later say when commenting on the incident.

MARIK REBELLION LEADERSHIP SURRENDERS TO JANOS MARIK'S FORCES

3015.04.18

The remaining leadership of the Marik rebellion has officially surrendered to Janos Marik's forces following the death of their leader, Anton Marik. The Free World League Parliament announced that remaining conspirators for the rebellion will be tried for treason over the coming months on New Delos. Janos Marik extended his appreciation to Colonel Jaime Wolf and his Wolf's Dragoons for their part in bringing the conflict to a close. The two have announced that Wolf's Dragoons will formally accept a five year contract on behalf of the Free Worlds League.

COM-1B UNVEILED BY COVENTRY METAL WORKS

3015.06.04

Lyran Commonwealth 'Mech manufacturer Coventry Metal Works have announced the release of a new variant in their popular Commando BattleMech line. The COM-1B seeks to diversify the Lyran Commonwealth's premier scout 'Mech by downsizing a number of close ranged weaponry to allow for heavy laser weaponry to be mounted on the machine to provide it with a longer threat range similar to the original Commando design introduced over 500 years ago. Coventry Metal Works insists the variant will be produced solely for the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces, but experts say that although House Steiner claims exclusivity over all Commando 'Mech production, that has not prevented private firms and mercenary units from obtaining the design outside of the Commonwealth in the past.

NEW AVALON INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE OPENING RECEIVES ROYAL FANFARE

3015.10.23

Tonight First Prince of the Federated Commonwealth, Hanse Davion, commemorated the opening of the New Avalon Institute of Science with a royal procession at the newly opened campus outside Avalon City. In a speech given to the New Avalon Media, Prince Davion expressed hope that this new institute of higher learning would one day lead humanity back into a new golden age, unheard of since the collapse of the Star League. The NAIS will be financed through generous donations by the Davion estate. With the Institute's grounds and over 3000 ancient Star League texts and data caches being donated to the NAIS by Prince Davion himself. The Institute's inaugural class will begin in the Spring of 3016 with degrees offered in Biology, Medicine, Engineering, Metallurgy, Chemistry, Finance, Political Administration, and Military Science.

YORINAGA KURITA RETURNS TO MALLORY'S WORLD IN FORCE!

3015.12.31

New Years Eve celebrations have been cut short on Malory's World as a Kurita assault force appeared at the system's jump point and has begun a full burn towards the planet. In a system wide emergency broadcast the Duke of Mallory's World, Rodkel Miller, has announced that they believe the assault force to belong to elements of both the 36th Dieron Regulars and the 2nd Swords of Light led by Yorinaga Kurita himself. Following Duke Miller's announcement, Morgan Kell, of the prestigious Kell Hounds Mercenary unit, attempted to calm the public with his own statement: ""We've defeated Yorinaga Kurita before and I assure you, we will do it again!"" It has only been two years since the previous assault on Mallory's World by the 2nd Sword of Light attempted to destroy the Fourth Davion Guards. While eventually repelled, the Davion victory came at a great cost with First Prince Ian Davion killed at the hands of Yorinaga Kurita's Warhammer.

NEED FOR SPEED: SUPERCHARGED 'MECH CULTURE MAKES ITS WAY TO THE BATTLEFIELD

3016.01.14

For over a millennium, Humans have flocked to spectator sports built around the desire to push a vehicle to its absolute limit. Superchargers allow a 'Mech to override the various inhibitors on its fusion reactor in order to boost a 'Mechs raw speed. While most commonly seen in various 'Mech racing, and gladiatorial arenas such as those found on Solaris VII, they have also found their way to the many battlefields of the Inner Sphere. None of the Great Houses utilize superchargers in their standing armies, keen to avoid the risk of damaging expensive fusion reactors, that has not stopped the spread of superchargers among various black markets, and their adoption by pirates and Periphery states alike.

KURITA FORCES BEGIN WITHDRAWAL FROM MALLORY'S WORLD

3016.02.20

Yorinaga Kurita has called for the withdrawal of all DCMS forces as the fourth battle of Mallory's World comes to a close in what can only be described as an unbelievable turn of events. With Yorinaga Kurita moving to box in the Kell Hounds second battalion, Kell Hounds Commander Morgan Kell and his Archer ""Tempest"" moved out from behind the Kell Hound's fortifications and challenged Yorinaga Kurita to single combat. The Kuritan Samurai could not resist and accepted his challenge. What happened next is a mystery. Both the AFFS and the Kell Hounds have refused to provide the media with any official statement on what transpired. Unconfirmed eyewitness statements describe that Kell's Tempest was brought to it's knees and was on the verge of defeat, when the Archer mysteriously disappeared from all computer readings. Some claiming Kurita's shots passed right through the Tempest, as if the 'Mech was nothing more than a phantom on the battlefield. Since the battle, Morgan Kell has refused to comment publicly on its outcome. Both he and the Tempest have withdrawn from the public eye leaving his brother Patrick Kell in command of the famed mercenary unit.

3RD SUCCESSION WAR ENTERS IT'S 150TH YEAR OF OPEN CONFLICT

3016.03.15

A somber anniversary today as the ongoing 3rd Succession War grinds its way into the 150th year of open conflict between the five Great Houses of the Inner Sphere. The conflict initially began in 2866 when House Kurita attacked the Lyran Commonwealth systems of Chateau and Icar as retaliation for Commonwealth traders making inroads with the Rasalhague regional markets in open defiance of Kuritan trade embargoes aimed at stopping such behavior. In short succession each of the remaining Great Houses executed similar tit-for-tat raids against one another until all parties found themselves once again dragged into open conflict. The 1st and 2nd Succession Wars were viewed as high-intensity conflicts that saw an unprecedented scale of wanton destruction at the hands of nuclear and chemical strikes against critical infrastructure that resulted in hundreds of systems being depopulated or abandoned, and an outright technological regression. By contrast, the 3rd Succession War has thus far pulled the entire Inner Sphere into a perpetual state of low-intensity warfare. Where focused mass destruction has given way to an unending series of skirmishes, raids, and proxy wars deep into the heart of opposing territories. As the century and a half long meat grinder has gone on, the depleted house forces have increasingly turned to mercenaries to supplement their standing armies and execute raids deep behind enemy lines.

DESPERATE FOR ARMS, INDEPENDENT FORCES TURN TO LOW-TECH ALTERNATIVES

3016.04.19

This year will mark the 230th anniversary of the First Succession War, started when Coordinator Minoru Kurita declared himself First Lord of the Star League. As each of the Great Houses contend for the throne of the ancient Star League, the constant warfare has lead to an unprecedented decline in technology, and those living outside the Great Houses scramble to hold their own with what little they can find themselves. In the absence of weapons thought common among great house armies, some in the fringes have turned to attempting to manufacture their own weaponry out of technology that predates humanity's migration to the stars. The most common of these weapons being Ballistic Rifles and Chemical Lasers. Viewed as insignificant by the Great Houses due to the proliferation of modern autocannons and lasers, these low-tech alternatives allow for many insurgent, pirate, and even Periphery forces to arm themselves with lethal force. Not widely distributed in ""civilized"" societies, these weapons are often traded in the deep Periphery and in various black markets across the Inner Sphere.

ARCHON PROPOSES PEACE! WISHES TO UNITE THE GREAT HOUSES

3016.09.15

In an official address this morning Katrina Steiner, Archon of the Lyran Commonwealth is hoping to bring about a diplomatic solution to the Third Succession War. Reports indicate a high priority peace proposal was sent to all of the Great Houses with hopes that the ongoing conflicts could de-escalate. Sources suggest the First Prince of the Federated Suns, Hanse Davion is showing a positive response to the proposal and is willing to enter talks with House Steiner. This could be a start of a cordial relationship between the Federated Suns and the Lyran Commonwealth. As the situation unfolds, we truly hope the other Great Houses welcome the proposal in the same fashion, perhaps after centuries of conflict there could finally be a clear path towards peace in the Inner Sphere.

LOST TECHNOLOGY CACHE TO BE SOLD AT AUCTION TO ARMS TRADERS

3017.05.27

Lostech hunters along the Taruien Corridor have found a Star League Defense Force cache filled with weapons and equipment thought to be abandoned hundreds of years ago when General Alexander Kerensky lead the SLDF out of the Inner Sphere. While the hunters have refused to comment on where they uncovered their lucrative find, they have said that they plan to sell the weapons at auction. Knowledge of how to produce the advanced technology of the Star League era is lost, yet some examples remain. Lasers with extended ranges, autocannons with double the rate of fire, missiles with advanced targeting systems, and the ammunitions they require. Lostech hunters, traders, and weapons dealers alike continue to scour the scrap yards of the Inner Sphere, hunting for Lostech weapons and equipment, even BattleMechs that have survived the ravages of war and time. Occasionally such rare finds can be found in markets, often for a considerable markup.

INFAMOUS REDJACK RYAN FOUNDS PIRATE KINGDOM ON BUTTE HOLD

3018.01.01

After the horrific events of the Fianna Massacre last year the notorious 'Redjack' Ryan, former Lieutenant in the Oberon Confederation gone rogue has reemerged after fleeing the Inner Sphere. Sources indicate Butte Hold III was annexed by Redjack Ryan s forces and was recently established as an independent Pirate Kingdom. The self-proclaimed pirate king, Ryan has been indiscriminately raiding nearby systems causing an uproar as marauder activity is on the rise. The notion of another autonomous Pirate Kingdom may even attract and unite numerous unlawful groups to the Butte Hold system as the bordering Great House territories bolster to protect their remote systems.

CRANSTON SNORD'S IRREGULARS RETURN TO CLINTON AFTER INCURSION INTO FREE WORLD'S LEAGUE

3018.07.15

Snord's Irregulars have long been known as an eccentric group of mercenaries, more interested in collecting old art and artifacts. Their recent action on Loric, going toe-to-toe with Wolf's Dragoons forced many to reevaluate that view. The Irregulars return to Clinton from Loric wasn't celebratory however, as they found their museum in ashes, and their collection stolen by Marik forces. Missing these past four months since, reports of their activity deep in the Free Worlds League, originally thought preposterous, appear true and this absence was simply another reprisal in the ongoing feud between Snord and Captain-General Janos Marik. The recent absence appears to have been an audacious retrieval run, dubbed ""Operation Junk Yard Dog,"" in which they not only regained much of their collection, but dumped a hostage on Katrina Steiner's doorstep, Janos's cousin. Jason Marik-Torrenson is now being held for ransom, and apparently complaining of hearing loss, no doubt the result of Cranston's daughter Rhonda and her recently returned music collection. Already famous for allegedly starting a fight with the Marik Militia's 15th Regiment on Uhuru at the age of 11, Rhonda is known for her collection of 20th century music, particularly rock 'n' roll, and for sharing it with all around her from the large speakers mounted on her Highlander ""Heavy Metal."" Clinton residents first reported the Irregulars return after being subjected to Rhonda's latest musical interest, heavy metal.

GETTING BY: AN INSIDE LOOK INTO MODERN DAY 'MECH MARKETS

3019.03.04

With newly produced 'Mechs exclusively sold to the Great Houses, arms traders that often service mercenaries, militias, and planetary defense forces rely on battlefield salvage to maintain stock. This leads to an inventory that often mirrors regional forces, and is almost always in a state of disrepair. But sometimes a dealer gets their hands on a real gem. Whether it is a 'Mech not often available within their nation's borders, a new 'Mech from one of the few remaining factories, or a relic of the ancient Star League, all such 'Mechs are sold as prized ""Rare 'Mechs"" in many markets across the Inner Sphere. While some might scoff at these offerings as show room markups on common 'Mechs, eagle eyed 'Mech enthusiasts can sometimes encounter rare prizes. One market owner boasted that he once possessed a long thought extinct Jump Capable Crab variant once known only to exist in the SLDF's premier Royal BattleMech divisions.

THEFT OF BANSHEE BATTLEMECH SPURS GRIEVANCE WITH THE OLD CROWS MERCENARY COMPANY

3019.11.02

House Kurita, at the behest of the Nineteenth Galedon Regulars, has filed a grievance with the Mercenary Review Board over a breach in their garrison contract with the Old Crows Mercenary Company. House Kurita claim members of the Old Crows Mercenary Company broke into a hangar belonging to the Galedon Regulars and stole a Banshee BattleMech before fleeing Combine space. The Draconis Combine wishes to reprimand the Old Crows, and is seeking to place a bounty for the head of the mercenary group's leader. A man that only goes by the title ""El Guapo."" Comstar, which oversees the operation of the Mercenary Review Board, have said that they take any alleged breach in licensed MRB contracts seriously and are opening an investigation into the incident with the Old Crows. El Guapo could not be reached for comment, but sources close to the mercenary unit have claimed that he has taken the stolen Banshee on as his own and has begun to customize his ""La Malinche"" to suit his personal tastes.

THOMAS MARIK REVEALED AS NEW HEIR TO MARIK THRONE

3020.04.17

In a statewide briefing in Procyon Captain-General Janos Marik has officially appointed his son Thomas Marik to be his heir. Thomas Marik, seventh in line to the Throne, never once conceived of the notion of one day becoming the Captain-General. With a passion for technology Thomas joined Comstar with his father's blessing at the age of sixteen in 3006. He would later join the Explorer Corps where he served for seven years before acting as a deputy chief at various Comstar HPG Stations. After the hardships of Anton Marik's Rebellion causing a rift between the League's member states, Thomas, far removed from the turmoil seemed like the most logical choice. Talks began early this year as the Captain-General began negotiating with Comstar for Thomas release. Sources state Comstar finally agreed on the terms hoping that Thomas would someday be an amicable ruler for the Free Worlds League.

KURITA FORCES WITHDRAW FORM DROMINI IV: MINOBU TETSUHARA DISHONORABLY DISCHARGED

3021.09.21

In early September, under the command of Minobu Tetsuhara, the Reconnaissance Company Gold and Second Sword of Light Regiment faced an unprecedented attack from the Wolf s Dragoons under the orders of the Lyran Commonwealth on Dromini IV. After weeks of harsh combat, all defending Kuritan Forces on the system were forced to withdraw and regroup. After a thorough internal investigation of the battle records, the ISF have found that the debacle of a loss on Dromini IV was caused by the shameful efforts of Tai-I Minobu Tetsuhara and the other high ranking officers. Minobu Tetsuhara was immediately relieved of his command and denied the right to pilot a BattleMech forthwith. His famed family 'Mech, the Panther Katana Kat , a gracious gift from the Coordinator Miyogi Kurita was relinquished from him to be placed in the hands of a more worthy BattleMech pilot.

PIRATE STATE MORGRAINE'S VALKYRATE FORMED FROM OBERON DEFECTORS

3021.11.18

Incensed at the male dominance in the Oberon Confederation and after the desertion of her lover, the self-proclaimed Pirate King Redjack Ryan in 3018, Maria Morgrain former Lieutenant of the Confederation has broken away from Oberon rule. Seemingly following suit with the Pirate Kingdom of Butte Hold, Maria and a handful of loyal outlaws have settled on the frozen world of Gotterdammerung II and unofficially declared it the capital of their new pirate kingdom, Morgraine s Valkyrate. Surrounding systems are keeping a close eye at the Barrens region of space as over the years it seems like more and more pirate groups are attempting to establish independent states that terrorize the innocent in this pocket of the Periphery.

BREAKING NEWS: LYRAN COMMONWEALTH AND FEDERATED SUNS TO BE MERGED INTO A SINGLE STATE

3021.12.31

t has been two years since Archon Katarina Steiner of the Lyran Commonwealth offered an olive branch to the Great Houses of the Inner Sphere and only First Prince Hanse Davion of the Federated Suns responded. Although Hanse Davion eventually rejected the call for peace, he began establishing a rapport with Katarina Steiner over the years and brought closer ties to the two realms. After a long running dialogues moderated by Comstar, the two Successor States have finally come to an agreement and signed the FedCom Accords at Comstar's First Circuit compound on Terra's Hilton Head Island. Sources indicate that the First Prince and Archon agreed to formalize military, scientific and economic exchanges between the two states with this new treaty. This alliance is a significant step to unifying the two Great Houses into the Federated Commonwealth and hope for end of the Third Succession War.

URITA, MARIK, LIAO SIGN TREATY: CONCORD OF KAPTEYN

3022.06.01

Today marks a momentous occasion as the Draconis Combine, Capellan Confederation and the Free Worlds League have formed a rare alliance. The treaty, officially titled the Concord of Kapteyn was signed by the three parties in mutual support against their common enemies House Davion and House Steiner. The treaty includes a technology exchange program as well as trade agreements for BattleMechs, research and intelligence. The unlikely allies, Chancellor Maximilian Liao, Captain-General Janos Marik and the Coordinator Takashi Kurita united in direct response to the FedCom Accords that were signed four months ago. This alliance of course did not come easy as it took a week of negotiations at the Terran Alps retreat of Elmau. Reports indicate that Janos Marik initially refused to ally with Maximilian Liao, the man responsible for inciting Anton Marik s Rebellion in 3014. However, the Captain-General was eventually convinced as the looming threat of a Federated Commonwealth alliance could only be rivaled by the combined forces of all three states. While this alliance has not halted the frequent raids against the newly allied interstellar nations, Comstar representatives are confident that should the Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth succeed in merging into a single superpower, the Kaptyan Accord signers will cooperate in order to keep House Davion and Steiner in check.

COMSTAR PUBLISHES A COMPREHENSIVE TECHNICAL READOUT OF MODERN WAR MACHINES

3022.10.13

For the first time ever, a comprehensive readout of the most common military vehicles of the Inner Sphere has been publicly released. Technical Readout 3025, written and distributed by ComStar publishing, is the most in-depth specialized and historical collection of data ever released to date. This intuitive 200-page publication includes details on the capabilities and history of the most common pieces of military hardware used by the Great Houses of the Successor States. Featuring data breakdowns of BattleMechs, aerospace Fighters, Land-Air-Mechs and combat support vehicles. A total of 55 'Mechs, 15 Fighters, 3 LAMs, 4 DropShips and 12 vehicles all featured in this beautifully illustrated volume, a must have for all collections! An unrivaled encyclopedic guide to the equipment of the Inner Sphere! - Sian Herald

BLACKJACK RE-IMAGINED! GM REVEALS THE BJ-1DC

3023.04.15

Federated Suns 'Mech manufacturing company GM are proud to unveil a new variant of Blackjack from their refitting facility on Talcott. The once poorly regarded medium 'Mech has been given a second wind by Davion technicians after its outstanding performance during the defense of Xhosa VII. New variants were immediately commissioned and are finally ready for deployment. The BJ-1DC variant features an increased lethality by replacing its jump jets for two small lasers and an additional heat sink, giving the 'Mech increase close-range capabilities and improved heat management.

KESTEEMED MECHWARRIOR SETS LOCAL RECORD FOR BOTH LANDS GRANTED AND STRIPPED

3023.09.29

MechWarrior Rodney Van Kleven, of the elite 6th Syrtis Fusiliers, is quickly setting records on New Syrtis. No one else is recent years has proven to have such mixed success, with Van Kleven now holding the local record for number of lands being granted in service and then also having them stripped away again. Record keeping enthusiasts across the Capellan March are even now searching to find anyone else in the region's history with such an unusual service record. Van Kleven himself isn't bothered by the news according to those close to him, and everyone we talked to agrees that the man is both well-liked and a terror on the battlefield with his Atlas, ""The Boar's Head."" It does leave one to wonder how long his mixed fortunes will last, whether he'll retire a Baron, or lose it all.

HELLSPONT INDUSTRIES UNEVEILS DRAMATIC RE-WORK OF THE MALIGNED CHARGER 'MECH'

3023.10.14

A year after the signing of the Kaptyan accords, Hellspont Industries in partnership with the CCAF and Luthien Armor Works have unveiled the CGR-1A5. The accords have proved a valuable boon, facilitating arms trades with House Kurita's Luthien Armor Works. Hellspront Industries have produced the CGR-1A5 as a ground-up Capellan field refit of the typically loathed CGR-1A1 and the mediocre CGR-1L purchased through LAW as military surplus. The CGR-1A5 completely reinvents the Charger by downgrading the CGR-1A1's massive engine into something befitting its size. The freed up tonnage has allowed Hellspont's factories to add five tons of additional armor and completely rework the weapon loadout form the ground up. Providing the 'Mech with a devastating close range armaments consisting of a Tomodzuru Heavy Autocannon, a pair of large Bical SRM launchers, and an Argra 3L Medium laser. Strategic Military Director Pavel Ridzik has already praised early field tests of the CGR-1A5 declaring it one of the most impressive assault 'Mechs he has ever seen. He is now working to quickly distribute the design among the many Confederation battalions as fast as Hellspont Industries can refit them.

MYSTERIOUS ""BIRD-LIKE"" BATTLEMECH SIGHTINGS NEAR LIAO/DAVION BORDERS~

3024.03.16

As of late there have been an increased amount of reports of a small unknown BattleMech being spotted along the Davion/Liao border. Surveillance dispatches from groups along the border region claim that this strange new ""bird-like"" 'Mech was seen on several systems near St.Ives. The most baffling thing about this mystery 'Mech is that it has been nearly impossible to document. Eyewitness reports claim the Mech is extremely elusive as its surrounded by a sort of ""distortion field."" A small Mercenary group claimed to have spotted the BattleMech one night on a patrol. When attempting to make contact all computing and targeting equipment suddenly became scrambled and once systems were restored the mystery 'Mech had vanished. So far the AFFS have discredited the rumors of this fleeting 'Mech, stating the mystery appearances are most likely a combination of faulty equipment and patchwork FrankenMechs cobbled together by Liao forces, as all accounts of the mystery 'Mech have thus far not come from reputable sources.

GRAYSON CARLYLE THWARTS DRACONIS COMBINE PLOT TO CONQUER THE TRELL SYSTEM

3024.10.28

The Commonwealth Citizens of the Trell system can breathe easy tonight as a plot to isolate and conquer the world in the name of the Draconis Combine has been thwarted by Grayson Death Carlyle and his Trellwan Lancers. Durant Carlyle and his Carlyle's Commando Mercenary Company garrison on Trell were overwhelmed when a raiding party from the Oberon Confederation masking their identity as a Lyran Commonwealth relief force ambushed and destroyed the Commandos. Shortly afterwards, Duke Hassid Ricol of the Draconis Combine invaded the system and took control of the local government looking to fold the Trell system into the Rasalhague Military District. Durant's son Grayson survived the initial ambush and was successfully able to rally survivors into the makeshift Trellwan Lancers. Waging an extended guerrilla campaign against the invaders, the Trellwan Lancers were able to force the Red Duke to withdraw from the system. Inheriting his father's Shadow Hawk and renaming it ""Gray Death,"" Grayson now plans to follow in his father's footsteps and reform the Trellwan Lancers into a new mercenary unit. The Gray Death Legion.

NEW CAPELLAN PRIMARY HEAVY 'MECH CTF-1X UNVEILED

3025.02.11

The Capellan Confederation Armed Forces proudly presents their new flagship heavy 'Mech the Cataphract. Contractors Earthwerks Incorporated are in full production at their largest facility on Tikonov as the new heavy 'Mech is said to be one of the most versatile chassis ever created. This unique design uses key components from the Marauder, Shadow Hawk and Phoenix Hawk to create a versatile and easily maintainable chassis. Outfitted with a Ceres Arms Smasher PPC along with a Sarlon MaxiCannon AC10 and four Medium Lasers the CTF-1X is capable at all ranges. Earthwerks also confirms we may see more Cataphracts in the near future as experimental variants have already been green lit by the CCAF.

DCMS ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH KALI YAMA INDUSTRIES. UNVEILS THE TBT-7K

3025.03.27

Leveraging their newfound alliance under the Kapteyn Accords, the DCMS have partnered with Free Worlds League 'Mech manufacturer Kali Yama Industries to produce a unique variant to the long standing Trebuchet Support 'Mech. The unveiled TBT-7K is a radical departure from the typical Trebuchet's LRM focused design, stripping out the entirety of the 'Mech's traditional loadout and replacing it with a torso mounted PPC and Autocannon/5 combo, and an arm mounted SRM 2 Launcher. The unique loadout was commissioned by the DCMS in an exclusive contract with Kali Yama looking to produce a more capable medium direct fire support 'Mech. Manufactured in limited quantities, the TBT-7K will serve as a testing platform for Kali Yama's potential entry into House Kurita's often tightly regulated arms markets.

REDFIELD AND STEIN'S FOLLY LIBERATED BY HOUSE LIAO FORCES

3025.05.07

The systems of Redfield and Stein's Folly have been reclaimed in the name of the honorable Chancellor Maximilien Liao, and the Capellan Confederation! The coordinated campaign executed by House Liao's Death Commandos, 1st St. Ives Lancers, and McCarron's Armored Cavalry has liberated the systems from the Davion oppressors that stole the worlds in the Second Succession War. The CCAF is now working with local officials to re-integrate the local populace and oversee the transition of power for all local authorities to the St. Ives Commonality. The Capellan state has also made a formal request of ComStar to properly update their starmaps to account for the recent liberation, although ComStar has determined that such action would be premature until a formal integration of the governing bodies of each system has been completed.

COVENTRY METAL WORKS ANNOUNCES THE COMMANDO COM-3A

3025.05.20

Coventry Metal Works have announced a release of a new variant of their Commando light BattleMech line made exclusively for the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces. The improved COM-3A carries the most devastating close-range package the chassis has seen to date. Outfitted with dual Coventry 90mm SRM-6 launchers, a Defiance B3M Medium Laser and a Hotshot Flamer the hard-hitting striker COM-3A will surely become a popular variant among the LCAF.

LCAF REVEALS BLR-1S BY RED DEVIL INDUSTRIES

3025.06.13

Red Devil Industries presents a new variant of the BattleMaster commissioned by the Lyran Commonwealth, the BLR-1S. The production contract of the assault class 'Mech has facilities on Pandora in full swing as the LCAF expect to see the chassis distributed among Lyran Guard and Lyran Regular regiments. This new BattleMaster chassis modification turns the well-rounded heavy hitter into a deadly missile support 'Mech. Swapping its primary energy weapon and adding additional LRM and SRM launchers makes the BLR-1S a walking missile platform capable of taking out targets with ease.

COMSTAR DECLARES THIRD SUCCESSION WAR OVER!

3025.07.07

In an address this morning Comstar announced that they believe the open hostilities that defined the Third Succession War have finally come to a close. With the passage of the FedCom accords and the signing of the Concord of Kapteyn in 3022, a significant de-escalation in hostilities between the Successor States had been observed by the historically neutral organization. While raids and border skirmishes still persist, coordinated assaults attempting territorial conquests such as the Cappellan Confederation's recent attempts to take Redfield and Stein's Folly, or the Draconis Combine's assault on Galtor all ended as only short term occupations of said territories. Comstar explained that it appears that for now, the Great Houses have worn themselves down to the point that territorial conquest appears to be no longer feasible in their present state. Spanning nearly 159 years, the multi-generational conflict of the Third Succession War has killed untold millions and has kept humanity suspended in a state of technological regression brought on by the two prior Succession Wars. The results of the FedCom Accords have been progressing as the Lyran Commonwealth and the Federated Suns continue their alliance with economic and scientific exchanges in order to unify the two states. Meanwhile the Concord of Kapteyn has House Kurita, Marik and Liao agreeing to end hostilities with each other, banding the three Great Houses to keep the Federated Commonwealth powers in check. With the major powers working together, experts hope the states can start relieving tension on the once contested war-zones and begin focusing on rebuilding and reconciliation.

AFFS FORCES SUCCESSFULLY DEFEND GALTOR III FROM MASSIVE KURITAN INVASION

3025.08.14

Probably the largest single campaign of the 3rd Succession War, the AFFS have repelled an invasion force from the Draconis Combine and have secured an ancient Star League Facility on Galtor III. Over two years ago, First Prince Hanse Davion began to commission surveys of recently conquered worlds along the Draconis March border in the hope of uncovering valuable Star League technology. Prior to Galtor, all commissioned survey teams reported that all of the Star League facilities discovered had already been stripped of any value over the hundreds of years since the fall of the League. The news that a survey team had discovered an untouched facility on Galtor III was enough to draw a large Draconis Combine force to Davion occupied Galtor to claim it. Davion military analysts predicted two full 'Mech regiments would be dispatched to lay claim to the facility. House Kurita sent five. The outnumbered Draconis March Milita on Galtor, led by Hauptmann General Mary Tallman held the Kuritan onslaught at bay until elements of the 33rd Avalon Hussars, the 4th Crucis Lancers, 12 Vegan Rangers, and the Lone Wolves mercenary unit arrived to reinforce the defenders. Hauptmann Tallman was hailed as a hero for her exemplary performance throughout the three month long Galtor Campaign and is said to have renamed her custom Thunderbolt 'Mech ""Top Dog"" to remind her of the grueling campaign that will undoubtedly define her career.

KALLON INDUSTRIES DEBUTS THE RFL-3C

3025.09.23

Here at Kallon Industries we are continuing to fulfill our commitment of producing the highest quality BattleMech and Combat Vehicles in the Inner Sphere. We are proud to introduce the newest line of premier heavy fire-support and anti-aircraft 'Mechs the Rifleman RFL-3C, guaranteed to be twice as effective as the standard chassis. Our new multi-role variant is outfitted for maximum firepower as we replaced the AC5s and Large Lasers with a pair of devastating heavy autocannons and one ton of additional armor. Our defense contract with the AFFS guarantees the new RFL-3C will be exclusively deployed to military forces in Federated Suns territory ready to turn the tides of battle. With superior reliability built into each 'Mech, Kallon Industries continues to be the leading manufacturer and specialists of military hardware in the Inner Sphere.

FEDERATED SUNS TAKES BACK REDFIELD AND STEIN'S FOLLY

3025.10.03

Federated Suns forces have retaken Redfield and Stein's Folly from Capellan hands, undoing the thrust earlier this year that saw both Redfield and Stein's Folly under Liao control. Led by Marshal Ardan Sortek and the Davion Heavy Guards, AFFS units suffered only minimal losses in recapturing the border world. For his part, Marshal Sortek was awarded the Diamond Sunburst, a move some critics are calling favoritism for Hanse Davion's childhood friend, especially after losing his custom Victor ""Dragon Slayer"" on Stein's Folly. Some of the more cynical wonder how it relates to Hanse Davion's recent policy shifts which saw many officials quickly moved in and out of their positions.

LIAO SPY JUSTIN ALLARD TRIED FOR TREASON AND EXILED

3025.12.15

Another victory against foreign operatives was won today as Justin Allard, a former AFFS Captain was declared a traitor for collaborating with House Liao and exiled from the Federated Suns realm. Allard, born with a Capellan background, served a short-lived military career with the AFFS and is best known for his actions on Spica in 3017, which earned him the prestigious Diamond Sunburst. Allard s background came into question as he was arrested on the 10th of January at the New Avalon Hospital. Count Anton Vitios began the treason inquiry after an investigation of Allard's involvement with Capellan Insurgents during the raid on Kittery. Court proceedings progressed as Count Vitios provided testimony and incriminating evidence, proving Allard was working as a House Liao spy. Sources show on multiple accounts he willfully collaborated with local Yizhi Tong, an illegal Capellan organization. The Count also exposed that the raid on Kittery was staged, accusing Allard of orchestrating the events directly with House Liao to undermine and provoke Federated Suns forces. With all the outstanding evidence the court finally came to a verdict, ruling Allard guilty of treason, stripping him of all honors, titles and his surname. The session concluded as the First Prince Hanse Davion personally made the decision to exile Justin Allard.

DEFIANCE INDUSTRIES INTRODUCES NEW ZEUS AND BANSHEE VARIANTS~

3026.02.01

Defiance Industries is introducing two new assault 'Mech variants. At a media event held from Defiance's testing field on Hesperus II, we learned that the new ZEU-6T is already rolling off assembly lines and into Lyran regiments. Notably, the podium was flanked by a pair of the new BattleMechs on display, clearly meant to evoke reminders of their predecessors role in repelling Combine invaders off this very testing field 239 years ago. It was during that trial by literal enemy fire that reliability issues were found with the prototype's PPC, which lead to it being replaced with a much simpler autocannon that's been in production since. Also in production is the BNC-3S Banshee. The GM 380 engine is gone, replaced with a Pitban 285, reducing the 'Mech's top speed. In trade, it receives a larger autocannon, a second PPC, and a half dozen more smaller weapons leaving it armed to the teeth.

NEW LIGHT 'MECH PROTOTYPE BY THARHES INDUSTRIES UNVEILED: THE WOLFHOUND~

3026.08.19

TharHes is finally ready to reveal their latest project, the prototype light 'Mech, the Wolfhound. The House Steiner manufacturer was contracted by Archon Katarina Steiner who wanted to produce a swift light-weight 'Mech capable of surpassing and taking out Combine Jenners and Panthers. The result was the economical, light and dependable Wolfhound. Outfitted with a full energy payload the ""Laserboat"" WLF-1 and its variants are effective at a variety of combat ranges. Combined with high speeds and heavy armor for its class, statistically the Wolfhound is looking to be one of the greatest light 'Mechs ever produced by the Steiner military. Prototypes were personally field tested by the Kell Hounds and Wolf s Dragoons with outstanding results, praising the 'Mechs performance and reliability. Wolfhound variants are already being deployed to LCAF regiments, ready to defend Commonwealth borders.

PETER ARMSTRONG KILLED IN SOLARIS DUEL VS NEWCOMER JUSTIN XIANG

3026.08.30

Newcomer Justin Xiang of Teng Stables and Federated Suns-affiliated title contender Peter Armstrong faced each other in an exciting clash at the Factory tonight. In a show of precision and skill, Xiang picked up a surprising and dominating victory against the veteran MechWarrior Armstrong who was unfortunately killed in the duel. Xiang in his modified Centurion Yen-Lo-Wang"" and Armstrong piloting his signature Griffin ""Ares."" The Two MechWarriors clashed with ferocity, however Xiang eventually got the upper hand, out-maneuvered Armstrong s 'Mech. The Ares was met with a flurry of autocannon fire, the hail of projectiles crashing into Armstrong s cockpit. In an instant the match was over as the shells eventually tore through the cockpit armor tragically ending Armstrong's life. Peter Armstrong will always be remembered for his dominance with his Griffin during his career in the Solaris Arenas. Known as one of the most skilled House Davion-aligned MechWarriors in his class, Armstrong is survived by his widow Marylyn and his daughter Deirdre.

AFFS RETOOLS CAPTURED CAPELLAN PROTOTYPE 'MECHS

3026.11.29

Over the course of the invasion, Federated Suns forces announced that they have captured and salvaged a large number of Capellan prototype BattleMechs. Identified as RVN-1Xs or Ravens, these light class 'Mechs manufactured by Hellespont Industrials were sent for analysis back in Davion space. After extensive tests Davion techs mandated to re-outfit the mediocre Capellan design, improving the 'Mech for AFFS use ensuring no bit of salvage went to waste. The new variant, the RVN-2X, removed the heavy makeshift Electronic Warfare system in place of a Large Laser and two additional tons of armor transforming the Raven from lacking support 'Mech into a well-rounded scout capable of engaging more armored targets. Prototype EW systems stripped form the 'Mechs were sent to New Avalon for further analysis with techs insisting that the Capellan s poor attempt at Star League era disruption device proved to be far below expectations. Although additional research is underway, initial reports show that the EW system is far too bulky, unreliable and prone to side effects when damaged.

SEVEN-TIME SOLARIS VII CHAMPION GRAY NOTON FOUND DEAD AT 42

3027.01.30

Tragic news today as Gray Noton, the seven-time Solaris VII Champion was found dead in his office this morning. Officials were notified as an employee of Noton found his body; investigations are currently under way to determine the cause of death. Gray Noton was a legendary MechWarrior and Mercenary, best known for his dominance in the Solaris VII arenas. Noton is the record holder for being the first and only individual to hold the title of Solaris Champion for seven years in a row thanks to his famous 'Mech, the ""Legend-Killer."" Noton made a name for himself competing with the distinguished Rifleman by dominating in the Open Class and Class Five arenas stunning audiences as he claimed victory after victory. He was so dominant that rumors began to surface that his signature Legend-Killer was modified with lost Star League era technology as it was able to take down much larger and stronger 'Mechs in the arena. The undefeated Noton eventually stepped down and retired in 3022 where he settled down starting his own export/import business on Solaris.

DAVION'S WEDDING INVASION ALREADY BEING CALLED FOURTH SUCCESSION WAR

3027.03.20

Federated Suns forces continue to push hard into the Tikonov Commonality following last month's surprise invasion announced by Hanse Davion at his own wedding on Terra. What's already being called the Fourth Succession War is looking to be the largest conflict in centuries. Capellan worlds, and military forces with them, are falling to the invading AFFS. Longstanding large units like the Chesterton Reserves are taking heavy losses on a number of worlds as the Capellan defense strategy isn't able to reinforce against invaders striking every border planet at once. The events are already reminiscent of the failed defense of their namesake Chesterton Commonality which was lost to Davion advances in the Second Succession War. Amidst the conflict, some Reserves members are still making names for themselves, like MechWarrior Jenny Templeton. It's only been five weeks since the conflict started and Templeton's Catapult, ""Butterbee"", is already adorned with seven new kill markings.

STAR LEAGUE MEMORY CORE DISCOVERED BY THE GRAY DEATH LEGION

3027.05.06

The Gray Death Legion mercenary group have announced the recovery of a memory core from a Star League Field Library Facility that now lies in ruins on Helm. Arriving on the heels of official news proving the Legion s innocence in the tragic Tiantan massacre is lending legitimacy to Colonel Carlyle's announcement. He further insisted the discovery is too valuable to withhold and is freely distributing copies of this Helm Memory Core. Already experts are speculating the memory core could contain unprecedented amounts of unencrypted data from the Star League archives and is likely capable of reviving some of the technologies lost to humanity through the Succession Wars.

JUSTIN XIANG CROWNED GRAND CHAMPION OF THE 3027 SOLARIS GAMES

3027.05.26

In a stunning performance newly-minted Grand Champion Justin Xiang defeats the former top contender Philip Capet on 26 May 3027 inside the Ishiyama Arena. The anticipated duel was decided on the pre-fight talk show Pregame Palaver as Capet announced he was going to surprise and defeat Xiang to become the Solaris Games Champion. In a shocking turn of events Xiang decided to pilot the Rifleman Legend-Killer which belonged to the late Gray Norton instead of his famous ""Yen-Lo-Wang"". As the duel began a rogue pair of arena fighters that go by the name of ""Firestorm"" and ""Street Cleaner"" ambushed Xiang in the tunnels of Ishiyama with a FireStarter and UrbanMech. Xiang cored the two light 'Mechs with relative ease, however the damage sustained from the surprise attack caused serious problems forcing Xiang to march Legend-Killer backwards for the remainder of the duel. In a daring attempt to ambush Xiang targeting his weak rear armor, Capet leaves his hiding position in his own custom Rifleman ""Dao Breaker"" only to find Xiang facing the wrong way. With lightning quick reactions Xiang flipped his 'Mechs arms over and performed a devastating Alpha Strike on Capet. The precise volley of projectiles knocked Capet s 'Mech down and Xiang performed the finishing blow smashing an autocannon shell through Capet s cockpit to become Grand Champion. Although we mourn the loss of Capet and his Stable we must commemorate Xiang for making quite the name for himself. Working his way through victory after victory proclaiming his efforts in the name of the Capellan Confederation.

DISGRACED COMMANDER EXILED BY COORDINATOR

3028.04.19

Following his defeat on Mallory's World, Yorinaga Kurita traveled directly to Luthien's Unity Palace to present himself to the Coordinator and explain his failure. Today, following a private meeting held between the two men, the Coordinator declared in a public statement that hence forth, Yorinaga Kurita would be stripped of all ranks and titles and declared persona non grata. Furthermore, he is to be exiled to a monastery on the remote Echo V system to spend the rest of his days reflecting on his failure to the Dragon. The DCMS has yet to comment on who will take Yorinaga's place at the head of the 2nd Swords of Light. But given that the 2nd remains one of the Dragon's premiere combat units, it is hard to believe that it's top position will remain vacant for long.

WOLF S DRAGOONS REPEL KURITAN FORCES ON MISERY

3028.05.25

The month of conflict on the icy wastes of Misery have concluded with the Combine forces of Minobu Tetsuhara falling at the hands of Wolf s Dragoons. Following accusations of war crimes against the Draconis Combine, Wolf s Dragoons were forced to regroup on the planet of Misery. Jaime Wolf yearning for vengeance directly challenged the Draconis Combine knowing that House Kurita could not ignore the call. Significantly outnumbered, the Dragoons were faced with the Combine 17th and 21st Galedon Regulars, four units of Ryuken and the 8th Sword of Light. Both sides suffered significant losses on the ice fields of Misery, however the Dragoons were able to use the harsh environment and snowstorms to their advantage allowing them to outmaneuver and wear down Combine forces. Under the command of J. Elliot Jamison, the Dragoon s Zeta Battalion would be deemed the heroes of Misery as his forces inflicted massive losses on Combine regiments. Jamison and his Stalker had the highest kill rate of any unit. But this came at a cost, as Zeta Battalion lost over 50% of their MechWarriors and officers during the merciless bloodshed. Jamison renamed his Stalker ""Misery"" and has ordered his techs to maintain the 'Mech's heavily scarred armor in honor of the many Zeta Battalion comrades that lost their lives in the battle. The fighting finally ended when the Combine command post was destroyed capturing Minobu Tetsuhara in the process.

HELLESPONT INDUSTRIALS DEVELOPS THE NEXT GENERATION OF RAVENS: RVN-4X

3028.07.03

Hellespont Industrials announces another technological breakthrough in BattleMech designs, revising the flagship Capellan Raven, outfitting it from the ground up. The 'Mech manufacturer renewed the Raven contract to continue research and production of the unique chassis after the Fourth Succession War. With the aid of CCAF development funds and the technological boom brought by the Helm Memory Core Hellespont is once again able to expand its facilities and Lostech research. With the need for BattleMechs on the rise in the Confederation, Hellespont strives to deliver by transforming the support prototype into an efficient and versatile anti-infantry scout. The chassis was simplified, removing the EW systems in place of two Machine Guns mounted in the left arm and a set of five Jump jets mounted in the Torso. The substitution also allowed to the Raven to maximize its armor to seven tons increasing durability on the front lines. Limited quantities of the variant have already been distributed exclusively to the CCAF, replacing the JR7-D among lances that are in need of anti-infantry capabilities.

HANSE DAVION WEDS MELISSA STEINER, INVADES CAPELLAN CONFEDERATION

3028.08.20

First Prince Hanse Davion manages to outshine even his own wedding to Melissa Steiner, Heir of the Lyran Commonwealth. What was arguably the most important event of the decade has been downgraded to a second place headline as Hanse announced his wedding gift to his new bride. ""Wife, in honor of our marriage, in addition to this morsel, I give you a vast prize. Here, my love, I give you the Capellan Confederation!"" Reports indicate the full scale invasion of the Capellan Confederation is already underway. Witnesses at the reception confirm that Maximilian Liao, Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation was in attendance, and did not take the news well. Analysts are already predicting these events are the start of what could be a fourth Succession War and that ""The Fox"" has outdone himself.

ERIDANI LIGHT HORSE WHIPPING STEINER FORCES INTO SHAPE

3028.09.25

With the conclusion of the Fourth Succession War last year, more large established mercenary units are finding less work on the battlefield and more work on the training field. Units like the Eridani Light Horse, whose history goes back to their Star League days as the 3rd Regimental Command Team, and now find themselves in high demand serving as trainers in the Lyran Commonwealth. Tasked with both ridding the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces of it's reputation of poor leadership, as well as integrating the top heavy organization with their Davion counterparts. However, few in the unit are as busy as Ariana Winston. The young commander of the Seventh Striker Battalion practically lives in her Cyclops BattleMech these days. Designed for the Star League Defense Force as a walking headquarters, Ariana's Cyclops ""Sleipnir"" is one of the few left that retain a working Tacticon B-2000 Battle Computer. This rare piece of Star League era technology enables her to lead and organize massive war games from the field instead of a command truck, and she's doing just that, out on the field leading games every single day.

KTO-20 DEPLOYED AMONG DCMS FORCES TO HUNT DOWN RENEGADE RONIN

3028.10.01

Over the past few months, Gunji-no-Kanrei Theodore Kurita persuaded Comstar officials to grant the Combine resources to aid in the rebuilding of the mighty Draconis Combine Mustered Soldiery. In order to appease the Dragon, Comstar upheld their promise and bestowed Combine forces with a large sum of military equipment from their warehouses. Among the vast quantity of rare 'Mech chassis and weaponry a large amount of KTO-20 BattleMechs were entrusted to the DCMS. The specialized Kintaro variant is nearly identical to its Star League era counterpart, replacing the long-lost Narc Missile Beacon with a Magna MK III Large Laser making it an exceptional and unmatched front-line skirmisher. The Kanrei already exclusively issued a large concentration of the technologically superior KTO-20 among Ghost Regiments and Sword of Light Regiments in order to stamp out the treacherous Ronin and all those who defy the honorable rule of the Dragon.

TIKONOV FREE REPUBLIC DECLARES INDEPENDENCE!

3029.03.03

In an announcement today from Elgin, Pavel Ridzik, former Confederation Strategic Military Director, declared independence from the Capellan Confederation. With dwindling support from House Liao, the Tikonov Commonality was under pressure and cut off from the rest of the Confederation leading to Ridzik brokering a deal with the Federated Suns. Aided by the AFFS and House Davion liaison General Ardan Sortek, Ridzik established his own independent nation and declared himself the Supreme Lord. Seemingly overnight the worlds of the Tikonov Commonality quickly established a new independent government and reformed their military from defected Capellan units into the Tikonov Free Republic Army. Ridzik now calls on Hanse Davion for control over the planet Tikonov so he may reunite his nation's true homeworld into the Republic.

MORDON GREENBURG CONTINUES MERCENARY LIFE AFTER CANCELLED SHOW

3029.05.28

A household name as a war correspondent for the Tharkad Broadcast Company, Mordon Greenburg's recent project took viewers behind the scenes as he went about forming a new BattleMech mercenary company in the reality documentary holovid series ""Greenburg's Godzillas."" Documenting the life of a mercenary unit, and fronted by Mordon himself. Many wondered at the fate of group after the show of was canceled at the onset of the Fourth Succession War. Apparently Mordon's bonding with the rest of the ""cast"" wasn't just for show, and he's continued to lead the mercenary unit since. Already a misfit band of colorful characters, the unit has continued to expand with the inclusion of Hap ""Madman"" Carsburg. Mordon's son Ivo, who appeared in the show as a skinny teenager, is now also a serving MechWarrior with the unit with a rare, custom King Crab 'Mech that he has aptly named ""Kaiju.""

ST. IVES COMPACT BREAKS FROM CAPELLAN CONFEDERATION

3029.12.10

After almost a month of turbulent skirmishes, Duchess Candace Liao, announced this morning that the St. Ives Commonality has been reformed into the St. Ives Compact, breaking free from the Capellan Confederation. Candace Liao, heir and daughter of Chancellor Maximilian Liao abandoned the Confederation and fled to St. Ives inciting the secession. In collaboration with Federated Suns agents, the forces loyal to the Duchess were able to push back the fragmented CCAF and retake the capital world in under a month. As the Fourth Succession War takes its toll on House Liao, the Duchess wishes to preserve her nation s people and culture by cooperating with Hanse Davion in order to avoid future conflicts with the dominant Federated Commonwealth. Reports say a formal alliance between the two groups is inevitable in order protect the small nation situated in the heart of Capellan territory. Following the loss of the Tikonov Commonality and the destruction of the CCAF by the Federated Suns the Capellan Confederation is in complete disarray. Their territory and forces nearly cut in half, this could be the beginning of the end for the once proud Successor State.

COMSTART PEACE PACT OF 3030 ENDS FOURTH SUCCESSION WAR

3030.02.19

The time has come for the anger and misunderstandings that caused this war to be set aside so we can construct a true and lasting peace from the ruins. The joint statement by Archon Katrina Steiner and First Prince Hanse Davion in early January has proved fruitful. Five weeks later, peace talks mediated by ComStar have resulted in the ComStar Peace Pact of 3030. The document was signed today by the leaders of the Draconis Combine, Federated Suns, Free Worlds League and Lyran Commonwealth. Notably absent is the signature of Lady Romano Liao, who currently serves in the absence of her ill father, Maximilian Liao, Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation. This absence however is likely to prove inconsequential, given that all other signatories have already agreed that the war is over.

EXETER ACCORDS SIGNED, ENDING WAR OF 3039

3030.03.18

Fighting had mostly stopped last year with Prince Hanse Davion's announced regroup in October that effectively stalled the offensive. Kanrei Theodore Kurita's recent changes to the DCMS organizational structure, tactics and new BattleMechs appeared to be a match for The Fox. The controversial move to allow previously undesirable persons, like those with ties to the Yakuza, to enlist has also proved fruitful, with many talented new MechWarriors rising through the ranks, like Shin Yodama's noteworthy rise through the Legion of Vega no longer hindered by his association with the Kuroi Kiri Gumi. Hanse Davion's push into the Combine wasn't without gains. Individual successes occurred, like the one claimed by the Fifth Donegal Guards in their assault on Alrakis, with MechWarrior Elle Bennett's remarkable eight kills. However the lack of integration between the merging states militaries remains a clear hindrance to what was meant to be a coordinated front.

TIKONOV FREE REPUBLIC DISBANDS: JOINS THE FEDERATED COMMONWEALTH ALLIANCE

3030.04.02

After a unanimous decision on Elgin today, the government of the Tikonov Free Republic voted to become a member of the Federated Commonwealth by joining the Sarna March. The independent nation agreed to disband and become a minor administrative district within the Sarna March, an administration uniting conquered and annexed systems under the rule of Melissa Steiner-Davion. In the aftermath of the Fourth Succession War and the tragic loss of Supreme Lord Pavel Ridzik, the Republic was left without a true leader for over a year. It then came to First Prince Hanse Davion to take the reins, ensuring the fractured people of the Republic they would see stability and proper leadership by joining the Sarna March. With the Tikonov Free Republic annexed, the Federated Commonwealth borders are officially joined, firmly uniting the two great Successor States.

BURTON ROTHROC PUTS PERSONAL BANSHEE ON MARKET, SPARKS RUMORS OF LEAVING LION CITY STABLES

3030.06.11

Burton Rothroc of Lion City Stables surprised many this week after putting his personal Banshee on the market. The veteran MechWarrior has had a long and successful career with the stable, racking up winnings in the Solaris VII arenas. Rumors are that Rothroc is planning to leave Lion City Stables to start his own, and selling his prized Banshee is likely a drive for additional capital. The customized Banshee named ""Siren"" sports an impressive maximum speed, jump jets for added maneuverability and a loadout of extreme-range weaponry. Experts expect to see the Siren in the hands of another MechWarrior very soon as the assault class 'Mech is attracting a lot of attention thanks to its outstanding tech and exceptional track record. Rothroc has so far been reserved about the gossip, refusing to make a statement on the future of his career on Solaris VII.

DCMS INTRODUCES NEXT GENERATION OF ASSAULT CLASS 'MECHS: THE DABOKU

3030.08.18

With the Inner Sphere seeing a technological boom, technicians continue rush and apply reclaimed Lostech to aging arsenals. Luthien Armor Works, commissioned by DCMS had the honor of creating a new assault class 'Mech using the Combine s newfound Star League era components. Produced exclusively for elite DCMS forces, the Daboku: MAL-MX90 is the latest addition to the Combine s 'Mech forces. Commonly code-named the fearsome Mauler by those who are unfortunate enough to encounter one, the MX90 acts as a heavy ranged support platform. Foes will never know what hit them as the Daboku is armed to the teeth with long-range weaponry specifically designed to snipe targets before they enter effective range. Primary production facilities are in full swing as LAW intends two additional variants to re-arm skilled DCMS MechWarriors along the precarious border territories.

THEODORE KURITA PROMOTED TO THE RANK OF GUNJI-NO-KANREI

3030.12.17

The Draconis Combine today announced that Theodore Kurita, commander of the Legions of Vega and only son of Coordinator Takashi Kurita has been promoted to the rank of Gunji-no-Kanrei (Deputy of Military Affairs). Kanrei Kurita's recent exemplary service during the Fourth Succession War was rewarded with both the Katana Cluster and the Order of the Dragon, and it is hoped that this new position will allow him to more ably serve The Dragon. The promotion has come as a shock to many Combine tabloids and royal family watchers. As it has long been believed that an internal family feud between father and son had given way to Theodore being previously assigned to the Legions of Vega. A unit known to be formed around the various dregs and malcontents of the DCMS. It is unclear if this promotion means that the Heir to the Dragon has returned to his father's good graces, or if it was only given as a way for the Coordinator to keep a tighter grip over Kanrei Kurita.

FREE RASALHAGUE REPUBLIC FORMED INDEPENDENT FROM KURITAN RULE!

3031.01.01

On the 13th of March, 3034, the Free Rasalhague Republic was officially formed. Newly elected Prince Haakon Magnusson declares the new independent nation finally free from oppressive Kuritan rule! After negotiations with Theodore Kurita, Katrina Steiner and ComStar, the FRR was created and entrusted to Magnusson, former leader of the Tyr resistance. Consisting of liberated worlds of the Tamar Pact ceded by Katrina Steiner and sections of the Combine s Rasalhague Military District, the Rasalhague people had not held a unified nation since the Principality of Rasalhague was subjugated in 2330 by the Draconis Combine. Magnusson assured the people of the Republic longing for sovereignty that they would no longer be subjugated by foreign oppression. In order to protect and serve the budding nation s borders the 1st Freemen Regiment was formed as rumors emerge that many Kuritan loyalists oppose the newfound nation's independence.

DUCHESS OF ST. IVES REBUFFS ANNEXATION ATTEMPTS OF FIRST PRINCE HANSE DAVION

3031.04.21

The Duchess of St. Ives, Candace Liao publicly announced that she will no longer be coerced by the ongoing demands of First Prince Hanse Davion. After the Fourth Succession War the First Prince continuously wished to annex the independent nation, using it as a staging ground for future incursions into Capellan space, similarly to what transpired with the Tikonov Free Republic in September this year. The Duchess expressed that St. Ives would not be brought into future conflicts and even threatened to leak critical intel to the Capellan Confederation if First Prince would continue to persist. It is clear that the Duchess wishes only peace and prosperity for her fledgling nation as it remains a distant presence from the ongoing conflicts of House Davion and House Liao

LUTHIEN ARMOR WORKS ANNOUNCES FIELD TEST OF NEW BATTLEMECH IDENTIFIED ONLY AS HTM-26T

3031.07.17

Earlier today Luthien Armor Works announced that a new BattleMech has completed internal testing, and that several DCMS units are in the process of receiving deliveries of this new 'Mech for field testing. Military officials present at the event on Luthien were not shy with praise for the new Chassis and the many technological advances coming with it. Officials were also clear that the absence of a sample of the 'Mech in question, or in fact any imagery, was intentional. A military spokesperson explained that further information about the new 'Mech, listed only as HTM-26T, would be available after this initial run of field testing, and listed ongoing tensions along the Federated Suns border as the cause for the delay in further information. The event ended with a recorded statement from Kanrei Theodore Kurita from his office on Benjamin. The Kanrei thanked the many LAW workers involved in this remarkable project for their numerous breakthroughs, and for their service to the Dragon, and with his assurances that the units receiving this new 'Mech would strive to match their example.

LIAO'S NEW HEAVY 'MECH ALREADY BEING USED AGAINST ITSELF

3031.10.01

The first new BattleMech design produced in the Capellan Confederation in centuries, the Cataphract, is now being used against our beleaguered nation. Only four years into production when it's only factory on Tikonov was captured by Davion forces and Liao's new heavy BattleMech is being seen among Federated Suns forces, suggesting that newly produced Cataphracts from the Tikonov plant are being used to fill gaps in the ranks. Loyal Capellans are furious at this turn of events, but no one has put their feelings to action quite like MechWarrior Grigori Kovalenko, who has recently announced his quest to take back every Cataphract possible from non-Capellan hands, doing it in a Cataphract of his own that he calls ""Ilya Muromets."" Grigori has vowed to lead a crusade against the Davion interlopers, not resting until the Confederation reclaims the Cataphract's manufacturing plants on Tikonov.

RENOWNED WOLF S DRAGOONS ESTABLISH HIRING HALL ON OUTREACH

3032.09.01

Mercenary companies from around the Inner Sphere gather at Outreach as Jaime Wolf and his famed Wolf s Dragoons established a hiring hall in the capital, Harlech. Outreach, once the site of the Star League Army Martial Olympiad was on the decline until First Prince Hanse Davion ceded the world to the Dragoons. Seemingly overnight, the Dragoons were able to transform their new home world into a mercenary hub, offering repair, maintenance, trade and training services to mercenary guilds from all nations. With the aid of the MRB, the hiring hall on Outreach is becoming a hotbed of activity that could possibly rival the legendary Mercenary Star, Galatea, as MechWarriors flock to the opportunity to work and train with the legendary Dragoons.

VERTHANDI WINS INDEPENDENCE FROM DRACONIS COMBINE

3032.11.12

With the help of a small mercenary unit, Verthandi has won it's independence from the Draconis Combine. The Lyran world had been under Kuritan control for almost ten years, but populace's drive for autonomy had never abated. How Verthandi will continue to stay independent is still unclear, but negotiations are ongoing with both the Draconis Combine, who funded the development of the planet's rich mines, and the Lyran Commonwealth. For their part, the Gray Death Legion are leaving the planet, their contract fulfilled. The unit's formation and action on Trell 2 years ago are already a common tale told wherever MechWarriors gather. Despite losing several MechWarriors and BattleMechs and in the campaign including the Locust his Executive Officer Lori Kalmar had called ""Pirate's Bane,"" The Gray Death Legion continues to grow, and assuredly this mercenary's star is bright.

DCMS CONTRACTS YORI 'MECH WORKS TO RAMP UP CPLT-K2 PRODUCTION

3033.03.07

Draconis Combine forces have taken great strides in re-establishing and rebuilding what was lost in the Fourth Succession War. DCMS command look to Yori 'Mech Works with a contract to once again start production on the prominent CPLT-K2. The famed CPLT-K2 is well known among Combine forces for breaking the mold of the standard Catapult by converting the indirect fire missile platform into a deadly brawler suited for the front lines. This impressive departure is made possible by swapping its primary armaments, trading the LRMs for a pair of PPCs and Machine Guns. Mass production is under way at the Al Na ir manufacturing center as Yori and Combine technicians were able to acquire the necessary resources to once again create the out-of-the-box variation of Hollis Incorporated s Catapult chassis. Spirits are high among DCMS forces as they are able to once again field a considerable number of the battle-tested Combine variant.

NAIS REPRODUCES LOS-TECH TAG SYSTEM

3033.06.05

NAIS scientists on New Avalon, thanks to data found in the Star League Memory Core found on Helm have managed to restart production on a system thought lost in the succession wars. New units of Target Acquisition Gear, commonly called TAG are in production. More than a simple laser designator, the TAG system ties into on-board targeting systems and uses it's own tight-beam laser communication to share data with friendly units and munitions, increasing accuracy for missiles and other guided munitions.

WITH FOURTH WAR OVER, WEARY SOLDIERS RETURN HOME

3033.10.04

With the Fourth Succession War over, many worlds are seeing those who left to serve return. Every unit involved in the conflict is reporting declines as those whose term ended during the war are now able to leave. Even MechWarriors who served with distinction and are being offered significant retention packages to stay on as trainers are declining and wishing to return to a life of peace. MechWarriors like Sealth, who finally returns to Zavijava from the Tenth Skye Rangers. Originally joining up to protect his homeworld during the waning years of the Third Succession War, Sealth was ready to leave when the Fourth War started up, and saw him and his graceful 'Mech titled ""Skokomish"" in action for several years longer than he intended.

DUCHY OF ANDURIEN BROUGHT TO HEEL

3034.03.13

What started ten years ago as a desire for independence for the Duchy of Andurien comes to a close today as Dame Catherine Humphreys called for the people of Andurien to follow her example, cease resisting and surrender their arms. Few were surprised given the widespread media footage two weeks ago of FWLM forces on the steps of Humphreys' Palace, evidence that the last key infrastructure on the planet had been ceded by Andurien troops. Already the Capellans are calling for restitution for Andurien attacks into their territory, and onlookers to the conflict see it as one with no victors. Many wonder what will happen to the Duchy now, after each of its planets have suffered crippling devastation in a war so long it's seen three Captain-Generals. Yet people across the Free Worlds League, when asked, all declare feeling a sense of unity both at a common goal for so long and in bringing the wayward Duchy back into the fold. Many are wondering whether a willingness to rebuild will win out against the resentment of losing such a bitterly long struggle.

DCMS UNITS STILL ON REPUBLIC WORLDS DECLARED RONIN

3034.05.04

Kanrei Theodore Kurita has broadcast a Declaration to all Combine worlds near the newly formed Free Rasalhague Republic, the text if which has also been posted to all DCMS units. The Dragon has entered a new era. As we look ahead to the future, we are saddened by those who only look behind. For the Dragon to move forward, we must shed the shackles that bind us, limiting our power and holding us back from true greatness. By allowing the Rasalhague people to be free, we have removed the shame that has quietly burdened the Dragon for centuries. There are those who believe that to hearken to an older time is to further the purpose of the Dragon. They are wrong. The Dragon endures because it adapts and embraces progress without burying itself in obsolete beliefs. Those who oppose the will of the Dragon are therefore declared ronin, masterless warriors who think only of their own selfish desire and not the will of the Combine. To these ronin, I say: Lay down your arms and accept true honor, or follow your selfish course to a disgraceful and ignoble end. The Kanrei's message is a clear statement regarding the recent hostile activity of Combine military forces that were to hand over garrison control to Republic forces on the newly formed Republic's worlds. Prince Haakon Magnusson of the Free Rasalhague Republic has already issued a reply to the Declaration formally requesting the aid of the Draconis Combine in this matter.

DUKE RYAN STEINER NEGOTIATES PEACEFUL END TO SKYE CRISIS

3034.06.29

Protest activities on Skye have come to a close thanks to Duke Ryan Stenier's peaceful negotiations that have ended the month long separatist occupation of the Glasgow FerroMetals steel factory on Skye. While separation has been at the fore of issues in the Federation of Skye for decades, the recent creation of a new state, the Free Rasalhague Republic, has spurred more intense action from separatists. Swift action by garrison forces to quell separatist demonstrations lead to violence and over 200 civilian casualties during demonstrations and riots. The creation of the new republic has also spurred ongoing separation demonstrations in the Tamar pact, the region of the Lyran Commonwealth that lost worlds to it when the Archon agreed to the formation of the new state.

DUFREE WORLDS TECHNICAL INSTITUTE MAKE BREAKTHROUGH IN STREAK MISSILE GUIDANCE SYSTEMS

3035.02.26

It has been several years since the Free Worlds Technical Institute was tasked to unlocking the secrets of the Helm Memory Core. Ever since the data was graciously gifted to Captain-General Janos Marik by Grayson Carlyle, scientists of the weapons research and development departments have made momentous advancements in missile targeting systems. Today FWTI researchers shared their findings, announcing that the Free Worlds League can once again mass-produce Streak Missile Launcher systems starting with the Streak SRM2. The once extinct Star League era technology is a specialized version of the standard Short Range Missile launcher. FWL Streak SRM systems house a unique Targa-7 fire control system linked to advanced components allowing the missile tubes to acquire a solid lock before firing, ensuring all projectiles meet their targets, or withhold from firing what would be a wasted volley.

LANTREN OFFERS NEW GHR-5N VARIANT AS FIELD REFIT

3035.03.22

Lantren Corporation has announced a new variant of the Grasshopper is now available to the astonishment of many. Production of the popular BattleMech ended two centuries ago with the destruction of Lantren's primary factory on Bryant during the Second Succession War. The war also left Bryant with worsening storms that made rebuilding quickly impossible. Only a small division of Lantren Corporation remains supplying parts and maintenance for the Grasshopper. Lantren is offering this new variant, the GHR-5N as a field refit package for existing GHR-5H BattleMechs. This new 5N removes the Long-Range Missile system and adds another Diplan M3 Medium Laser in it's place. The remaining mass is quickly used up again by swapping out the Heavy Laser with a more powerful Particle Projection Cannon.

FREE WORLDS LEAGUE EXPAND MISSILE GUIDANCE SYSTEMS WITH THE ARTEMIS IV

3035.04.14

Another decisive discovery by the Free Worlds League weapons research and development teams, who have solved the methods of reproducing Artemis IV Fire Control Systems. The latest advancement in target acquisition technology, this Star League era system utilizes a complex infrared laser designator and microwave transmitters that greatly improve the accuracy of SRMs and LRMs. Each launcher armed with an Artemis IV unit is able to launch Artemis compatible missiles faster with an expected thirty-five percent increase in accuracy. Although larger and not compatible with Streak launchers, Artemis IV versions are available for any existing standard missile launcher. The Minister of Defense has issued contracts with IMB systems and Imstar Aerospace to produce and outfit the advanced Artemis IV guidance systems on missile launchers supplied to FWLM vehicles and 'Mechs.

BOMBING ON ATREUS KILLS JANOS, DUGGAN, AND THOMAS MARIK. DUNCAN MARIK NAMED CAPTAIN-GENERAL

3035.06.01

A bomb exploded in the middle of a meeting room on Atreus today, killing Captain-General Janos Marik. His son, Duggan Marik was also confirmed deceased and rescue crews are still searching the scene but no survivors are expected. This shocking news came first from Duncan Marik himself who announced it only a few hours after the blast that almost claimed his life too, as he had been in the room minutes before. He was quick to speculate that blame may lie with the Duchy of Andurien. Thomas Marik was at the meeting, and his body is still unaccounted for. He served as Deputy Warden of the Perimeter Defenses after his father fell ill four years ago. Duncan Marik is currently expected to take up the post of Captain-General. Janos Marik was 78, and served as the Captain-General since 2991. Recent events suggest his health issues of the last couple years were finally behind him, as his attendance at both private meetings and public events had recently increased.

FREE WORLDS LEAGUE ROLLS OUT NARC MISSILE BEACONS FOR MECH FORCES

3035.06.11

IMB systems partnership with FWTI research into the Helm Memory Core data has been paying dividends as House Marik is now the leading manufacturers of target acquisition and missile tracking systems. IMB's reintroduced Narc Missile Beacon system offers a homing guidance system for long and short range missiles ensuring support lances can deliver their deadly payloads with precision. Narc Missile Beacons provide a revolutionary take on target acquisition systems by firing a short-range magnetic projectile mounted with a homing pod. Once the pod hits its mark, it broadcasts a wide-ranged beacon that missile launchers can home in on. Similar to its newly discovered counterparts, the Streak and Artemis IV systems, Narc Missile Beacons will forever change armed conflict.

THE BOUNTY HUNTER BUYS OUT COMPETITION

3035.06.26

An unusual move, contrary to the casual ruthlessness of the most infamous individual in the inner sphere, as The Bounty Hunter removes competition by simply buying them out. Clad in his distinctive green power armor, The Bounty Hunter met today with a rival bounty hunting group called the Cursorial Hunt. Strangely the meeting happened in public, but given that all the Hunt members immediately cashed out and retired after the meeting, it's likely to have been a requirement of the unusual deal. Also of note was that The Bounty Hunter's distinctive green Marauder BattleMech was sporting some obvious upgrades. Looking far removed from the 'Mech stolen from Natasha Kerensky three decades ago, a Gauss Rifle now mounted on the shoulder is the most distinctive modification.

NEW AVALON INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE UNVEILS THE NEXT GENERATION OF AUTOCANNONS

3035.07.03

Lubalin Ballistics LB-X Autocannon is the latest cutting-edge variation of the popular ballistic weapon used across the Inner Sphere. Taking advantage of more advanced materials and components in its construction ensuring each firearm is engineered to have a greater firing range at reduced weight. The most noteworthy feature of the autocannon is a variant that utilizes specially designed cluster rounds that allow the weapon to act as a mounted shotgun, peppering targets with explosive sub-munitions. Defiance Industries, Imperator Automatic Weaponry and other prominent arms manufacturers have started production of the LB 10-X AC and its specialized ammunition, pushing the avant-garde weapon to markets in nearly every Successor State.

GM SHOWCASES THE UAC-5: THE FIRST RAPID FIRE BALLISTIC CANNON

3035.08.14

Today GM unveils the latest autocannon technology, the Ultra AC-5. Produced for Federated Suns and Lyran Commonwealth forces, this medium caliber firearm houses a specialized magnetic loading system that was used in its Star League era predecessor. Paired with enhanced magnetic rounds, the UAC-5 offers superior muzzle velocity and range, enabling 'Mech to fire the autocannon at a significantly increased rate. Experts warn that these advancements do come at a price, as Ultra autocannons have a tendency to jam when attempting to sustain high rates of fire. This innovative design is made possible by the research efforts from the New Avalon Institute of Science, rediscovering the design for the magnetic loading mechanism and ammunition in the Helm data.

KALLON INDUSTRIES SHIPS OUT CAPELLAN 'MECH PERFORMANCE BOOSTING TECH

3035.08.29

The Ministry of Resources have been toiling away, focusing on Lostech research and reproduction. Proving that the Capellan Confederation can strive and rebuild after the losses from the Fourth Succession War, scientists have provided Beagle Active Probes for the proud regiments of the CCAF. In partnership with Hellespont Industrials' 'Mech division, technicians were able to recreate the Star League era device. Manufactured in the heart of Sian, Beagle Active Probes are specialized sensor suites similar to earlier EW prototypes. Designed to augment sensor range and enable the identification of hidden units outside a 'Mech's line of sight. The cutting-edge system will also reduce the effects of hostile countermeasures and jamming devices.

LYRAN COMMONWEALTH S EXTRALIGHT FUSION ENGINE SHAKES UP AEROSPACE AND BATTLEMECH INDUSTRY

3035.10.01

Scientists of the Lyran Commonwealth have made an incredible breakthrough in fusion reactors, recreating the Star League era Extralight Fusion Engine. House Steiner and House Davion have greatly benefited from the economic and scientific exchanges of the FedCom Accords in 3020, allowing both Successor States to study the marvels of the Helm Memory Core data in unison. The XL Engine, while mechanically akin to the standard variant is significantly lighter, utilizing a crystalline polymer in place of the dense and heavy tungsten carbide in the radiation shielding, enabling the same performance with half the mass. This improvement does come at a cost as the engine size is nearly doubled and is far more expensive to produce. Not surprisingly, these shortcomings failed to hinder manufacturers as a lighter fusion engine is in high demand for BattleMechs, aerospace fighters and other vehicles used around the Inner Sphere.

DRACONIS COMBINE SCIENTISTS REDISCOVER THE SECRETS OF ENDO STEEL PRODUCTION

3035.12.28

The art of endo-steel manufacturing has been extinct for over 200 years after the devastation of the First Succession War. However the Draconis Combine has proclaimed that the technological decline has ended as manufacturing and research are soaring. Experts at I.I.T analyzed data from the Helm Memory Core and advanced Comstar 'Mech attained by Kanrei Theodore Kurita and have unlocked zero-g manufacturing techniques used to recreate endo-steel internal structures. While requiring an orbital facility is prohibitive, this process provides twice the strength and half the weight of a standard BattleMech internal structures.

CHANCELLOR MAXIMILIAN LIAO DEAD AT 72

3036.04.21

It is with great sorrow that we announce that Chancellor Maximilian Liao has passed away due to sudden illness at the Celestial Palace on April the 21st. Romano Liao has graciously put herself forward to serve as the Confederation's 30th Chancellor, and under her leadership our combined sorrow will be transformed into strength and bravery allowing us to overcome our current hardships and rebuild our venerated Confederation. Maximilian Liao served as Chancellor of the Capellan Confederation for 46 years. In that time he guided the Confederation through great adversity and his keen wisdom allowed our people to flourish despite many hardships.

THOMAS MARIK RETURNS FROM THE DEAD

3036.12.05

Shock reverberates through the Free Worlds League as Thomas Marik appears before Parliament. Thought dead in the bomb attack that killed his father and brother, Thomas was clearly still recovering from his injuries even a year and a half later. He also announced he would be resuming his post as Deputy Warden of the Perimeter Defenses, especially as Captain-General Duncan Marik is away leading the war against the Duchy of Andurien.

DUNCAN MARIK DEAD AT 50, THOMAS MARIK NAMED CAPTAIN-GENERAL

3037.02.11

Duncan Marik, 49th Captain-General of the Free Worlds League, fell in combat on the 4th of February on Xanthe III. His efforts to bring the rebellious Andurien province back into the League will not be forgotten. Today, Thomas Marik, recently missing after a plot to end his life, was announced as the 50th Captain-General of the Free Worlds League. The new Captain-General was quick to make clear that policy regarding Andurien would not change.

DRACONIS COMBINE DEVELOPS EXTENDED RANGE AND PULSE WEAPON

3037.10.06

The tireless efforts of esteemed scientists at the Imperial Institute of Technology have resulted in marvelous breakthroughs. Information found within the Helm Memory Core has allowed researchers to overcome the hurdles in recreating directed energy weapon systems thought lost for centuries. Superior beam focusing and targeting equipment has allowed us to manufacture new Extended Range Large Lasers and new Extended Range Particle Projector Cannons. These ER versions of existing weapons are already in limited production, and greatly increase effective range at the cost of increased heat generation. Also in production are new models of Pulse Lasers. Using a rapid cycling high energy pulse to generate multiple beams and allowing vaporized armor to dissipate before each subsequent pulse, these lasers increase both damage and accurate energy delivery. Pulse lasers share remarkably few characteristics of their standard Large, Medium, and Small Laser counterparts beyond their three size designations.

EXPERIMENTAL BLACKJACK MOVES INTO PRODUCTION AND PHOENIX HAWK GETS UPGRADE

3038.06.27

Ceres Metals Industries, from its St. Ives facility, announced today that the first mass production models of the BJ-3 Blackjack have been completed and are already in the process of being delivered to customers. First seen as an exclusive prototype among St. Ives units almost twelve years ago, recent developments in the production of double heat sinks mean Ceres Metals was able to scale up production. The BJ-3 notably replaces the Whirlwind-L-Autocannons with a pair of Ceres Arms Smasher PPCs, something that was once an outrageous proposition yet possible now with mass production double heat sinks on the market. Matching the Blackjack for weight, CMI also introduced the new Phoenix Hawk PHX-3S. Designers were reluctant to alter the venerable heavy scout much after almost half a millennium. Sticking with what it does best, this new variant features a Large Pulse Laser, MASC and improved defenses provided by an Anti-Missile system.

KATRINA STEINER ABDICATES IN FAVOUR OF DAUGHTER MELISSA STEINER-DAVION

3039.03.15

Archon Katrina Steiner announces today her abdication of the Throne of the Lyran Commonwealth. Her daughter Melissa Steiner-Davion will succeed her as Archon. Now Styled Archon-Emeritus, Katrina Steiner immediately followed with another announcement, the birth of her 5th grandchild, Yvonne Steiner-Davion. Katrina Steiner has served the Lyran Commonwealth as Archon for 32 years, and spent a considerable amount of that time working towards a peaceful conclusion to the Succession Wars. Her most notable achievement in that regard is arguably the FedCom accords and subsequent marriage of her daughter Melissa to First Prince Hanse Davion of the Federated Suns, an act than now leads to the unification of the two realms as Katrina steps down.

NEW HATAMOTO 'MECH EXPECTED TO CUT THROUGH THE COMPETITION

3039.04.01

In 3035, Kanrei Theodore Kurita tasked Luthien Armor Works to reverse engineer advanced Star League Defense Force BattleMechs found in the rosters of the DCMS. Now seven years later, LAW's top engineers are bearing the fruits of their labor. The Hatamoto-Chi HTM-27T, armed with dual Tiegart PPCs and dual Bical-6 SRMs, and possessing superior cooling and armor against its predecessor, the HTM-26T, thanks to an endo-steel chassis.

FEDERATED COMMONWEALTH INVADES DRACONIS COMBINE!

3039.04.16

Hanse Davion's announcement yesterday that ""steps must be taken to deal with the Kurita tyranny"" is proven to be more than mere words as reports mount that a joint invasion of the Draconis Combine is underway by both the AFFS and LCAF. Renewed hostilities between the Federated Commonwealth and the Draconis Combine have long been expected after the Combine's taking of Suns worlds during the Fourth Succession War.

DUCHY OF ANDURIEN REBELS! PROVINCE BREAKS FREE FROM FWL

3039.12.19

After weeks of disputes at the Free Worlds League Parliament, Dame Catherine Humphreys, leader of the Duchy of Andurien, declared the province free from the Leagues control. This act of independence came to no surprise for many as Dame Humphreys is well known for persistently contesting the Captain-General and the FWL Parliament. Over the course of her political career she opposed the Leagues politics and consistently invoked the Home Defense Act when the Captain-General called for offensive operations. This autonomy came to a boiling point during the Fourth Succession War as Humphreys harshly criticized Captain-General Janos-Marik's poor attempts at upholding the Concord of Kapteyn and opposing the FedCom invasions. The secession has created unrest with the remainder of the League as talks of cutting off support for the new independent nation are underway. As a result, Dame Humphreys has furthered political correspondences with Magestrix Kyalla Centrella, leader of the Periphery nation Magistracy of Canopus for a possible coalition.

ARCHON-EMERITUS KATRINA STEINER DEAD AT 63

3040.01.04

Archon-Emeritus Katrina Steiner, who only last year abdicated the Throne of the Lyran Commonwealth, has died in her sleep at the age of 63. All of the Lyran Commonwealth is united in sorrow as we remember a leader who's early life proved their proficiency in warfare, and yet their decades of service to the Realm showed an unwavering commitment to lasting peace.

COMSTAR INTERDICTION ENDS WITH COMGUARDS PLACED AT ALL FEDERATED SUNS HPG FACILITIES

3040.01.19

The intentional communications blackout of Federated Suns worlds by ComStar over the attack of an HPG facility on Sarna was lifted almost four months ago. Only now though are we seeing what the terms of that agreement mean, with ComStar placing their own military forces at all hyperpulse generators in the Federated Suns. Here on Caph, so close to Terra, members of the ComGuards and their 'Mechs have already arrived and been seen on duty. This reporter even managed to have a conversation with one of them. Thomas Faber seems rather unlike the reclusive and mystical stereotype so many think of. Friendly and charming as we talked, me on the ground and he from the open hatch of his BattleMech. Thomas and I got along well as we spoke about his posting, my coverage of it, and various topics like him missing his newborn daughter and the local sports teams. As our conversation wound down, I commented on what an unusual sight his Crab BattleMech was. Created just before the Star League fell, and with none produced since, Crabs are a rare sight, especially in such good condition. Thomas mentioned that both his father and grandmother had served in it, and he wondered if he too would one day pass it along to his young daughter.

IRIAN TECHNOLOGIES GAUSS RIFLE SHAPES FUTURE OF BALLISTIC WEAPONRY

3040.03.21

Gauss rifles are once again available in the Free Worlds League. The finest Lostech technicians from Aituataki Academy recreated the necessary mechanisms allowing Irian Technologies reproduce this sought-after Star League era weapon. The result is the Zeus Slingshot, Irian s flagship Gauss Rifle model, equivalent to the ones used by the SLDF, and is considered the next step in ballistic armaments. Utilizing electromagnets to accelerate projectiles to extreme velocities, Gauss weaponry generates negligible heat and the nickel-ferrous rounds are unaffected by munition explosions. Early field tests proved the weapon's lethality as it was able to pierce through armor with ease, and skilled sharpshooters can take down light 'Mech in a single shot. Irian technicians do warn that that damaging the Gauss Rifle's capacitors can cause explosions, resulting in significant damage to nearby components.

ANTI-MISSILE SYSTEM MANUFACTURING ON THE RISE

3040.08.17

Extinct for hundreds of years, Anti-Missile Systems were once a rarity among BattleMechs in the Inner Sphere. It is thanks to the brilliant researchers of House Davion on New Avalon that were able to reproduce the Star League era Lostech. The AFFC s staple model, the MainFire Point Defense AMS acts as a short-range defensive system used to strike down incoming missiles with rounds before they reach their intended target. Built with complex automated targeting systems, integrated AMS devices can track missiles from any direction protecting lances from barrages as long as munitions are available. Although AMS equipment and its ammunition is still relatively rare amid loadouts, officials expect these devices to be extremely popular among mercenary and military forces to counter missile heavy arsenals.

DRACONIS COMBINE MASTER THE ART OF FERRO-FIBROUS ARMOR

3040.10.28

Ferro-fibrous armor, once lost for centuries can be reproduced thanks to the Dragon s efforts in spearheading Lostech research. This specialized armor reintroduced by I.I.T scientists has increased tensile strength, providing additional protection at reduced weight. Ferro-fibrous armor does come at a cost as the weaves require far more space to house on 'Mechs than standard plating. The new specialized armor has been praised as a simple alternative to the superior but expensive endo-steel technology, saving weight without needing costly chassis refits. Many top Kuritan manufacturers have already converted production lines as many DCMS BattleMechs are slated to be constructed and outfitted with ferro-fibrous plating by the end of the year.

WHAT'S OLD IS NEW AGAIN!

3040.12.15

Today, a new Cyclops variant has been released by Stormvangers Assemblies Unlimited. There are high hopes for this 'Mech resulting in increased production on Caph. The Cyclops CP-11-A utilizes rediscovered Star League technology, dropping the Autocannon/20 in favor of a Zeus Slingshot Gauss Rifle, in turn swapping raw firepower for over twice the effective range.

DOUBLE HEAT SINK PRODUCTION BOOMING THANKS TO HOUSE DAVION SCIENTISTS

3040.12.19

For years the Federated Suns have been tinkering with heat sink technology, fabricating a multitude of prototypes to improve the heat dissipation in BattleMechs. Finally, decades later, top researchers at NAIS rediscovered a mass producible adaptation of the Star League era double heat sink. By combining previous research data with the knowledge from the Helm Memory Core, double strength heat sink technology is once again widely available across the Inner Sphere. Operating in the same manner as the standard BattleMech heat sinks, double heat sinks provide enhanced heat dissipation and management for the same weight, but are significantly bulkier, taking up over twice the space.

LYRAN COMMONWEALTH AND FEDERATED SUNS MERGE INTO FEDERATED COMMONWEALTH

3041.01.01

It's been almost 2 years since Melissa Steiner became Archon, and though the Great Houses themselves won't officially merge until the succession of their heir, the current arrangement of the Archon jointly ruling with her husband First Prince Hanse Davion means these two realms already act as one. Unification of the Lyran Commonwealth and the Federated Suns was always going to be a long, slow process. Today a significant step in that process comes as maps and names update to reflect a single state, the Federated Commonwealth.

A NEW DRAGON TAKES FLIGHT

3042.02.17

Luthien Armor Works has let loose another Dragon upon the Inner Sphere. The Dragon DRG-5N comes equipped with an Ultra Autocannon/5, utilizing the latest technology that increases the rate of fire twice-fold. This improved weapon comes at the cost of of a Medium Laser.

FEDERATED COMMONWEALTH MILITARY MERGER COMPLETE

3042.08.27

After decades of cooperation between the Lyran Commonwealth Armed Forces and the Armed Forces of the Federated Commonwealth, the creation of a new unified military command structure began last year with the creation of the Armed Forces of the Federated Commonwealth. Today marks the shutdown of the LCAF and AFFS as the AFFC takes over the last of their duties, finally completing their unification.

PIRATE QUEEN PAULA TREVALINE CAPTURED

3042.10.28

The AFFC announced that an operation by the 9th Federated Commonwealth Regimental Combat Team into the Tortuga Dominion have resulted in the capture of the infamous pirate Paula Trevaline. This news comes as a great relief to those living on the edgeward worlds of the Federated Suns, as raids by the Pirate Queen have been a constant threat.

LUTHIEN ARMOR WORKS MODERNIZES ICONIC DCMS JENNER CHASSIS

3042.11.20

The Jenner has been a staple of mighty DCMS forces, acting as a heavily armed scout in Combine lances for centuries. Gunji-no-kanrei Theodore Kurita personally mandated that the Jenner would be the ideal candidate to receive a Lostech upgrade. Production lines were rebuilt and updated on Luthien and Abiy Adi as Luthien Armor Works latest design rolled off the assembly line today, the JR7-K. LAW technicians did not stray too far from the original specs, assuring the core design is nearly flawless. Instead they focused on increasing the structural armor with the addition of ferro-fibrous armor to increase durability. The new JR7-K is now considered the definitive variant of the light 'Mech, all possible thanks to the Combine s recent efforts in mass-producing ferro-fibrous armor.

COVINGTON 'MECH MUSEUM UNVEILS MACKIE EXIBIT

3043.02.05

The Covington 'Mech Museum on Atreus and the Fusiliers of Oriente jointly announced the opening of the 'Mech Museum's latest permanent exhibit: ""King of the Battlefield"" dedicated to the original Battlemech, the Mackie. With the exhibit featuring what is lead to be believed to be the last operational Mackie in existence. The ancient 'Mech was generously donated to the museum by the Fusiliers of Oriente that still fielded the 'Mech up until it's decommissioning from active service with the Fusiliers a year ago. Over the plast year 'Mech historians from around the League worked tirelessly to restore the ancient machine in preparations for the exibit's unveiling next week. The exhibit's opening will occur on February 5th, the 603rd anniversary of the Mackie's first combat trial. Plans for what is already being called ""Mackie Day"" include a historical re-enactment of the original combat trial with Fusiliers members, and special guided tours of the 'Mech's systems. Tickets to the unveiling are reserved for Covington 'Mech Museum members and are expected to sell out fast. So the CMM encourages those who wish to attend the event sigh up for their museum membership soon through the Covington system network.

BOUNTY HUNTER'S DEATH LIKELY CAUSED BY COMPETITORS

3044.09.01

In what is rumored to be a case of eliminating the competition, noted bounty hunter Dale Sandstrom has died. No one we've been able to contact has a clear picture of what happened, but several sources mention a certain green-painted Marauder. Sandstrom's impressive record of 45 claimed bounties likely means he's as much a victim of his own success. Sandstrom started out serving as a MechWarrior with the Fifth Regulan Hussars. He lost his Archer in battle leaving him Dispossessed, but he stayed on with the infantry. Later, on extended leave, he headed home to Sophie s World in 3011. Finding the remains of an Assassin while there, he spent all he had into getting that 'Mech running again. He left the Hussars a couple years later, and started working as a freelance bounty hunter, calling his 'Mech ""DarkDeath.""

DCMS OCCUPATION FORCE LEAVES RASALHAGUE AFTER LAST YEAR'S RONIN WAR

3045.01.03

The main conflict of the Ronin War came to a close over a year ago, after many Draconis Combine units refused to accept that the creation of our Free Rasalhague Republic had come at the cost of some of their worlds. Kanrei Theodore Kurita was quick to denounce these traitors, and led Combine forces to our aid, helping crushing the ronin. Many in Rasalhague were skeptical of DCMS units staying after hostilities died down, and were distrustful of the claims they were here to secure, train, and rebuild. Now, over a year later, it's a relief to see those claims proven true and how much it's done to repair the rift between our nations, but it's also long enough. The First Genyosha lifting off Rasalhague today marks the last of the Combine units leaving our Republic. This war has also been a test of Rasalhague fortitude, and we have seen many examples of the heroism and indomitable will, true soldiers like Odin Sigurd, or the Iron Jarl himself, Tor Miraborg. And yet we remain grateful to Kanrei Kurita for his help this last year. Providing training for our military has been invaluable, and we have confidence that our great nation will be able to rebuff any prospective attackers.

CAPELLAN CONFEDERATION AND HELLESPONT MECH WORKS REINTRODUCE BEAGLE ACTIVE PROBES TO THE INNER SPHERE!

3045.03.13

The Ministry of Resources have been toiling away, focusing on Lostech research and reproduction. Proving that the Capellan Confederation can strive and rebuild after the losses from the Fourth Succession War, scientists have provided Beagle Active Probes for the proud regiments of the CCAF. In partnership with Hellespont Industrials' 'Mech division, technicians were able to recreate the Star League era device. Manufactured in the heart of Sian, Beagle Active Probes are specialized sensor suites similar to earlier EW prototypes. Designed to augment sensor range and enable the identification of hidden units outside a 'Mech's line of sight. The cutting-edge system will also reduce the effects of hostile countermeasures and jamming devices.

CERES METALS INDUSTRIES RESTORE PRODUCTION OF GUARDIAN ECM SUITES IN THE CAPELLAN CONFEDERATION

3045.06.11

After being extinct for centuries, production of Guardian Electronic Countermeasure suites is once again available thanks to the innovation of the leading scientists of the Capellan Confederation. These advanced ECM suites created on Capella are specialized short-ranged devices used to shield friendly 'Mechs from hostile sensors while disrupting enemy targeting computers, communications and guided missile systems. Nearly identical to their Star League era equivalents, Guardian ECM suites are even capable of jamming and disrupting the electronics systems of Artemis and Narc armaments. Seeing enormous potential in the Guardian, CCAF officials gave the green light to Ceres Metals to restore the production lines and refit more BattleMechs with the Lostech device. The CEO of Ceres Metals proudly revealed that their flagship model, the Apple Churchill Golden Shield would soon be readily available for the CCAF's growing regiments, granting them a unparalleled technological advantage on the battlefield.

EARTHWERKS INCORPORATED SHOWCASES THE SHD-5M

3045.08.28

Earthweks Inc on Calloway IV announced the stunning reinvention of the Shadow Hawk with the SHD-5M. The well-rounded and popular medium 'Mech chassis was the next in line to receive a complete overhaul using rediscovered Star League Lostech. Earthwek s Free Worlds League branch technicians worked from the ground up, replacing and upgrading each key component to bring the SHD-5M a step beyond the competition. Equipped with an Ultra Autocannon/5 and a Streak system integrated with the existing short-range missile pod, the design features four times as many long range missiles as it's predecessor. By replacing the framework of the 'Mech with an endo-steel structure, double heat sinks and an extralight engine, SHD-5Ms are able to equip extra armor and jump jets while maintaining sustained fire for longer.

ASSAULT MECHS RECOVERED FROM DRACONIS COMBINE PROVED FLAWED

3045.10.19

At the time, few in the AFFC speculated why they were recovering so many Mauler 'Mechs from the Draconis Combine in such good condition. The 'Mechs were quickly delivered to Lyran Periphery units in need. Only now, after those same units have gained combat experience in the design is the crippling flaw apparent. Many MechWarriors are following the example of Captain Zachary Hawkins and disabling the faulty systems that cause an unwanted automatic ejection.

OUTBOUND LIGHT LEAVES FOR THREE YEAR SURVEY

3045.12.12

The ComStar Explorer Corps has announced the departure of the exploratory vessel ""Outbound Light"" from Bone-Norman. Captained by Precentor Vincent Dupont, the crew of 46 is accompanied by a 7-man Explorer Service Team. The merchant class JumpShip is also furnished with 2 DropShips, the Union class ""Knox"" and the Buccaneer class ""Golden Hind."" The exploratory survey mission is expected to head coreward, and spend three years following a free route, able to investigate any star systems deemed promising for human colonization or study. Formed in 2959 to chart and catalogue systems beyond the borders of the Inner Sphere, The members of the Explorer Corps bravely hurl themselves into the void in order to better expand our understanding of our universe. Exploratory vessels are sent to survey star systems, excavate failed colonization attempts, and explore strange new worlds. Of their most notable achievements to date is their continued contact with the Hanseatic League, a mercantile nation located 300 light years beyond the boarders of the Federated Commonwealth. To the crew of the Outbound Light, we here at the ComStar news desk wish you luck and godspeed. May the peace of Blake be with you.

OUTBOUND LIGHT MISSES SCHEDULED RETURN WINDOW

3046.06.11

The ComStar Explorer Corps regretfully announced that the exploratory vessel ""Outbound Light"" has missed the scheduled return window. Outbound Light has a crew of 53 and is captained by Precentor Vincent Dupont. Due to the nature of of the free route plan, search and recovery operations are unlikely to locate the vessel and the ship has been deemed missing with all hands.

LUTHIEN ARMOR WORKS EXPANDS THE HATAMOTO LINEAGE WHILE TRYING TO BURY THE DABOKU'S~

3047.01.16

Six years after the release of the HTM-27T, Luthien Armor Works has unveiled the latest Hatamoto model. The Hatamoto-Ku is a new variant that puts more emphasis on distance fighting, replacing the short range missile racks with an autocannon. Few were fooled that the subsequent announcement of an entirely new BattleMech, the MAL-1R, which is not in fact a new chassis, but most understand LAW's desire to distance itself from failure of the Daboku when comparing the two. The new Mauler is clearly superior in almost every category, feature extended range lasers, larger missile racks and more armor.

ACHERNAR S NEW DERVISH LAUNCHED FOR THE AFFC

3047.03.08

Introducing the DV-7D, the latest edition in the Dervish family manufactured by Achernar BattleMechs. Replacing the venerated DV-6 series, the DV-7D features innovative Lostech components, finally addressing the armor flaws of the older design. The addition of an endo-steel chassis and ferro-fibrous armor plating give DV-7Ds greater defense. Not straying far from the original missile heavy loadout, technicians used the extra tonnage to upgrade the arm mounted SRM launchers to variants integrated with Streak systems.

ELUSIVE CAPELLAN RAVEN MECHS SPOTTED ON THE AMBERGRIST SYSTEM

3047.04.30

St. Ives Military Command reports multiple sightings of Capellan scouting lances on the Ambergrist system in St. Ives Compact controlled space. Scrambled footage of the light 'Mechs have been released, showing what appears to be a new variant of House Liao's Raven. Specific details are scarce as attempts to identify and analyze the 'Mechs with long range targeting systems were countered, most likely due to enhanced Electronic Countermeasure devices engineered by Capellan scientists. Originally these complex components were abandoned by the CCAF over two decades ago as their first Raven prototypes under-performed greatly in skirmishes. Experts extrapolate that Capellan scientists may have finally perfected their original electronic warfare designs in what is now being called the RVN-3L thanks to the recent boom in technological advancement. These incursions breed unease as high command rushes to relocate the 1st Kell Hounds in anticipation of possible hostilities.

FOX'S TEETH RIP INTO MENKE AFTER MAC LEVELS FORT BOURGOGNE A SECOND TIME

3047.08.19

Not content to let McCarron's Armored Cavalry destroy Fort Bourgogne a second time in as many decades, Hanse Davion sent McKinnon's Company, better known as the Fox's Teeth, to the MAC homeworld of Menke. With the majority of MAC regiments garrisoning border worlds, the invaders made short work of Fort McCarron in turn, destroying everything from supply dumps to repair facilities, even the golf course. Marcus Baxter lead two MAC regiments back to Menke, only to find the MAC headquarters still smoldering and McKinnon's Company long gone. Already defeated, his mood worsened when one of his lieutenants pointed out that MechWarrior Daniel Waylen now held a perfect score on their golf course, a Gauss rifle crater at every hole.

TOP FREE WORLDS LEAGUE MILITARY MANUFACTURERS RAMP UP TBT-7M PRODUCTION~

3047.10.27

In the past months the Free Worlds League Military have contracted their top weapons manufacturers to design an upgraded variant of the Trebuchet that would utilize improved components and the FWL s signature Narc Missile Beacon system. A partnership between Kali Yama Weapon Industries Inc., Corean Enterprises and Irian Technologies resulted with the TBT-7M. Built from the ground up with an endo-steel chassis and Magna XL fusion engine, the new version features jump jets and a Narc Missile Beacon. Although the TBT-7M was manufactured for the FWL, the contract was non-exclusive and the multi-national manufacturers have already deployed batches of the variant to units around the Inner Sphere.

TECHNICAL READOUT OF STAR LEAGUE ERA TECHNOLOGIES AND WARMACHINES RELEASED

3048.05.07

Twenty years after the discovery of the Helm Memory Core, Technical Readout 2750 has lifted the curtain on the various military technologies once thought long lost to humanity. Released in a similar format to Comstar's landmark Technical Readout 3025 and consolidating the vast amount of information released with the Helm Memory Core, Technical Readout 2750 gives the public a window into the various military marvels and technologies of the lost Star League. As technologies not seen since the collapse of the ancient Star League begin to re-enter the market and the mysteries of the Helm Memory Core are unlocked, Technical Readout 2750 looks back and gives us a glimpse of what we've lost, and what might be in store as we move into the future.

DEFIANCE INDUSTRIES DEBUTS THE ZEU-9S FOR THE AFFC

3048.06.29

Defiance Industries have announced their redesign of the Lyran Commonwealth stalwart, the Zeus assault 'Mech. Since the formation of the Federated Commonwealth older Zeus models faced some resistance by former AFFS units. In an attempt to unify the two military powers, Lyran officials contracted Defiance to redesign the Zeus specifically to address those concerns. The ZEU-9S has proved popular, as all major manufacturing plants on Hesperus II have discontinued the older variants and ramped up production of the new model. Techs painstakingly redesigned the core armor, replacing the standard defenses with Primo ferro-fibrous plating. The energy weapons were upgraded to feature both extended range and pulse technology while the 'Mechs heat management systems were upgraded to match the higher demand.

THE FLE-17 ENTERS THE RANKS OF THE CCAF

3048.08.13

Earthwerks Limited have announced their partnership with the CCAF, introducing a new variant of the Flea chassis. For years the 'Mech was exclusively produced and piloted by the renowned Wolf s Dragoons, it wasn't until recently that the Capellan Confederation disclosed they designed blueprints to produce their very own variant of the recon chassis. Expanding the 'Mechs core durability with an endo-steel frame freed extra room in the 20-ton chassis granted technicians the ability to integrate a MASC system, allowing pilots to dash across battlefields pushing the Flea s maximum speed to a shocking 129 km/h. Skilled MechWarrior's can be virtually untouchable in the tiny chassis while using MASC in short bursts. Equipped with two Martell Pulse Lasers, two Small Lasers and an Olympian Flamer, the FLE-17 packs a deceptive punch in such a small package.

WOLFS DRAGOONS EXCLUSIVE MARAUDER II AVAILABLE FOR THE FIRST TIME TO OUTSIDE BUYERS!

3048.09.27

Colonel Jaime Wolf of the Wolf's Dragoons announced that the latest model of their signature Marauder II assault 'Mech would be available for purchase for the first time to select military and mercenary forces. Blackwell Heavy Industries, designers of the feared Marauder II chassis were authorized to ramp up production of the MAD-5A and sell the 'Mech to those personally approved by the Dragoons. Powered by an Extralight Vlar 300 Fusion Engine, the 100-ton chassis is surrounded by 19 tons of Valiant Lamellor armor plating. Arm mounted ER PPCs and a torso mounted LB-X autocannon grants the Marauder II an unrivaled advantage in firefights, sniping targets at extreme ranges. Demand for the Dragoons famed Mech is high as a long list of MechWarriors are attempting to get their hands on the MAD-5A, including the veteran Miller s Marauders, a mercenary group known for their exclusive use of Marauder 'Mechs.

TOP HOUSE KURITA MANUFACTURERS BOLSTER DCMS FORCES WITH THREE NEW BATTLEMECHS

3048.10.08

Technicians at Yori 'Mech Works and Luthien Armor Works have gone the extra mile in modernizing the DCMS BattleMech forces. Kuritan luminaries worked tirelessly perfecting the manufacturing methods of rediscovered Lostech and reinvented three of the DCMS workhorse chassis, the Quickdraw QKD-5K, the Charger CGR-3K and the Atlas AS7-K. Luthien Armor Works' new Quickdraw removes the long range missile system in favor of even more lasers, improved cooling and the weight-saving ferro-fibrous armor. LAW's Charger CGR-3K maintains it's predecessor's speed but an extralight engine leaves room for a weapons array that no longer resembles one of a scout 'Mech. Small Lasers have been upgraded to larger pulse versions and the 'Mech now mounts an impressive long range missile system by Shigunga. Yori's new Atlas AS7-K features more long range weaponry with the inclusion of a Gauss Rifle and a pair of Extended-Range Large Lasers. Military commanders are hoping to steadily add the new 'Mechs to their arsenals by the end of the year as the designs have reviewed well. Many MechWarriors have been showcasing the true potential of these 'Mechs on battlefields and even in the Solaris arenas. Upcoming arena gladiator Jason Bloch pilots a modified variant of the K model, identified as the ""Kraken"". Known as a cold-hearted tactician, Bloch and his menacing Kraken are considered a top pick for next year's Solaris VII Championship.

FEDCOM INDUSTRY LEADERS REINFORCE AFFC BATTLEMECH REGIMENTS

3048.12.03

Federated Commonwealth High Command gathered on Panpour with leading military manufacturers to field test the AFFC's latest BattleMech designs, the final step in plans to upgrade and integrate rediscovered technology into every force in their arsenal. Representatives of Jalastar Aerospace wasted no time debuting three new BattleMech variants, the Centurion CN9-D, the Grasshopper GHR-5J and the Javelin JVN-10P. The most impressive of the batch being the CN9-D, outfitted with an endo-steel frame and an extralight engine allowing a top speed of 97km/h! Kallon Industries followed up with the AFFCs premier anti-air and fire-support chassis the JagerMech JM6-DD, featuring ferro-fibrous armor and a new extralight variant of its Magna engine. Weight savings went into increasing both armor and firepower. Next, Coventry Metal Works premiered two new Firestarter variants, the FS9-S and FS9-S1. The FS9-S features a Beagle Active Probe while the FS9-S1 integrates a Guardian ECM suite. Both sophisticated devices allow the Mechs to excel in scouting, support and disruption roles giving their lance mates the edge in combat. Defiance Industries was also on hand to debut the LCT-3S, a brand-new Locust slated for production on Furillo. Using endo-steel and ferro-fibrous plating to bolster defensive capabilities and armed with Streak missile systems the LCT-3S is looking to be a deadly scout chassis. The St. Ives manufacturer HildCo Interplanetary collaborated with the AFFC to produce the VTR-9K. Featuring more armor atop an endo-steel frame and a weapons package consisting of Pulse Lasers and a Gauss Rifle, the Victor is expected to excel at all ranges. The SHD-2D2 by Majesty Metals is an upgraded low-cost, more armored variant of the standard 2D model with Streak missiles systems perfectly suited for close range ambushes. Finally, Olivetti Weaponry was contracted to design a specialized Thunderbolt for the Eridani Light Horse, a newly incorporated mercenary force in the AFFC. The TDR-9SE removes some of the smaller weapons in favor of an upgrade Large Pulse Laser, double heat sinks and jump jets for enhanced maneuverability.

WRECKAGE OF ZETA BATTALION EXPOSES EXCLUSIVE DRAGOON 'MECH DESIGNS

3049.01.13

Over a month has passed since the epic battle of Misery came to a close. As salvage crews comb the cracked and scorched ice fields, they have recovered a number of mysterious 'Mechs among the wreckage of Zeta Battalion. Two 100 ton chassis' that go by the designation ""Annihilator"" and ""Marauder II"" which the secretive Wolf's Dragoons have deflected all prior inquiries into. The independent salvage teams that recovered a large number of the elusive 'Mechs have vowed to refurbish and sell the incredibly rare 'Mechs on the open market. The Dragoons stated the design for these 'Mechs would remain off the market but they wouldn't block existing sales of the salvaged 'Mechs, provided the bodies of their former MechWarriors are returned to the Dragoons for burial. 'Mech hunters will now need to keep their eyes peeled on the rare 'Mech markets, or dare to fight and beat the Dragoons on the battlefield if they hope to acquire the rare 'Mechs for their collections. With an original manufacturing date of 3010, the Marauder II appears to have been the first new Battlemech designed in centuries, pre-dating the recently revealed Wolfhound and Cataphract by over a decade. More curious, the 'Mech has been unveiled to be manufactured by Blackwell Industries on Outreach. Formerly a simple parts supplier with no history of BattleMech manufacturing. It remains a mystery how a minor parts supplier of the Dragoons has been able to beat larger defense firms in a race for the first new 'Mech design in over two hundred years. But an even greater enigma rests at the center of the Annihilator. Sacrificing speed for unbridled firepower, the Annihilator was designed shortly before the fall of the Star League, but was famously never manufactured before the League's collapse with all manufacturing schematics believed lost. Even more curious, all recovered battle computers of a number of different variants fielded by Zeta Battalion show evidence of data wipes with no information present prior to the Dragoons mysterious appearance in 3005. All attempts at recovering the erased data has thus far failed only adding to the mystery behind the design.

NEW MARAUDER VARIANT FEATURES GLUT OF UPGRADES

3049.01.29

Federated Comonwealth 'Mech manufacturing company GM are proud to unveil a new variant of Marauder from their facility on Quentin. A stunning example of the technological resurgence that came out of the Helm Memory Core, The Marauder MAD-5D is filled with upgrades. An extralight engine, double efficiency heat sinks, and extended range PPCs are all obvious enhancements. The autocannon and lasers have all been replaced with pulse weaponry, and supported by a Streak missile system. This new model also features increased mobility found in a set of jump jets.

FREE WORLDS LEAGUE BOLSTERS THEIR FRONT LINE

3049.02.07

The Free Worlds League and several of its defense contractors announced an array of new BattleMech variants in production, designed to update many existing chassis with recent technology advancements. The first is Kali Yama - Alphard Trading Corporation and their Orion ON1-M, which trades the previously temperamental autocannon for an LB-X model and improved missile systems. Earthwerks's BLR-3M Battlemaster features an extended range PPC and an improved heat management system. Earthwerks also joined with the Brigadier Corporation to develop the Griffin GRF-3M, which unsurprisingly also features an ERPPC and a double sized missile launcher. Lastly, Free Worlds Defense Industries brings the Cicada CDA-3M, where an extralight engine allows for the addition of an Ultra-Autocannon and removes the notion of the Cicada being just a larger Locust.

LATEST SWAYBACK OFFERING DISTRIBUES A MORE BALANCED PAYLOAD

3049.03.27

Throughout the centuries, a number of factory refits have emerged of the highly popular Hunchback that created unique variants by removing the iconic AC/20 to make room for alternative weapon systems. Dubbed ""Swaybacks"" by the numerous factories that offer these unofficial, but widely distributed aftermarket refits. Personal preference, Supply shortages and the sturdy reliability of a chassis found in the armies of every Great House mean there's no shortage of Hunchbacks mounting a larger array of smaller weapons. The latest widely distributed field refit, the HBK-4SP, is no exception, replacing the autocannon with a pair of large short range missile racks, and adding an extra medium laser to each arm. While many HBK variants store the substituted weapons in the original AC/20 housing, the 4SP is a unique refit in that it redistributes it's weapon payload in an almost symmetrical configuration across the entirety of the 'Mech's chassis. Ensuring that this particular variant will no longer be crippled by the destruction of it's right torso.

DEBUT OF RAVEN PROMPTS OTHER BATTLEMECH MANUFACTUERS TO OFFER EW VARIANTS

3049.06.15

Several BattleMech manufacturers have reacted to the Capellan Confederation's new 'Mech, the Raven. While none are offering a new chassis like Hellespont, they are offering new variants featuring their own electronic warfare suites. None are expecting to produce many, as it still remains to be seen how effective these systems will prove on the battlefield, but it's clear everyone is trying to cash in on the latest trend.

CONTACT WITH DEEP PERIPHERY SYSTEMS LOST, RAISING FEARS OF PIRATE ACTIVITY

3049.08.13

Growing concern after many Deep Periphery systems have been quiet over the past month. Experts link the unwelcome communications black out with possible pirate activity plaguing the region of space. Although isolated from the rest of Inner Sphere, the Deep Periphery still contains multitude of outposts, colonies and research sites operated by a number of the regions states and transnational cooperate entities such as ComStar and Interstellar Expeditions. Due to this isolation the region is often a prime target for pirates and insurgents, especially areas outside the HPG network that rely on long range courier ships for communications. These recent events have been causing a great level of uneasiness for the edgeward regions as it was only a month ago that the vessel ""Outbound Light"" and its crew were deemed missing. Officials of the Free Rasalhague Republic issued a statement that the situation will undergo a thorough investigation and have deployed mercenary groups to suppress any pirates near the lost systems.

OBERON CONFEDERATION GOES DARK AFTER YEARS OF INCREASED RAIDING

3049.09.16

After ten years of military buildup and increasingly aggressive raids into neighboring territory, the Oberon Confederation has gone strangely silent. ComStar reports that it has lost all contact with their facility on Oberon VI earlier this year and the disruption is long enough to be no idle matter. This communication blackout also affects contact with the Elysian Fields, an Oberon protectorate. It isn't known yet whether this outage is simply equipment failure or possibly a result of some sort of internal conflict, but communication interruptions within bandit kingdoms aren't unusual.

PERIPHERY PIRATES GO QUIET AS TRADERS GO MISSING

3049.12.27

It's been several years since the HPG on Oberon VI went silent and what scant news does come out of Hendrick Grimm's bandit kingdom isn't good. Rumors mostly, doled out by the few traders who still risk the area. But recently the news has become less frequent and more worrisome. One trader we spoke with mentioned that two of his compatriots have recently failed to appear after trips into the Periphery. Another trader we spoke with mentioned that even his less reputable business partners have missed arranged meetings and gone silent. What few traders are left say they're afraid to venture past Great House borders. The Free Rasalhague Republic started sending mercenaries after the pirates hounding their border in an effort to bring and end to pirate raiding. Those mercenaries are coming back empty handed though, or not at all, leaving many perplexed as to why pirate incursions are in sharp decline regardless. Pirates are usually quick to boast when they beaten one another, or defeat a pursuer, but those boasts are being replaced with an ominous silence.

Bibliography

• MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries (video game)