Difference between revisions of "Archer"
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|image=3025_archer.jpg | |image=3025_archer.jpg | ||
|name=Archer | |name=Archer | ||
| − | |manufacturer=[[Bowie Industries]] <ref>''Objectives: Lyran Alliance, p.29</ref> <br> [[Diplass BattleMechs]]<ref name="FR2765:Pp11">''Field Report 2765: Periphery'', p. 11, "Infrastructural Integrity"</ref> <br> [[Earthwerks Incorporated]]<ref name= | + | |manufacturer=[[Bowie Industries]] <ref>''Objectives: Lyran Alliance, p.29</ref> <br> [[Diplass BattleMechs]]<ref name="FR2765:Pp11">''Field Report 2765: Periphery'', p. 11, "Infrastructural Integrity"</ref> <br> [[Earthwerks Incorporated]]<ref name=TRO3039/> <br> [[LexaTech Industries]]<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 256</ref>, [[Vandenberg Mechanized Industries]]<ref name=TRO3039/> [[Defiance Industries]] <ref>''Objectives: Lyran Alliance'', p.29 </ref>, [[Gorton, Kingsley & Thorpe Enterprises]] <ref name=TRO3039>''Technical Readout: 3039, p.296</ref> |
|production year=2474 | |production year=2474 | ||
|year reference=<ref>''Era Digest: Age of War'', p. 11 and 22, state a primitive technology ''Archer'' was introduced in [[2458]]</ref><ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/74/archer-arc-2r ''MUL online date for'' {{PAGENAME}}]</ref> | |year reference=<ref>''Era Digest: Age of War'', p. 11 and 22, state a primitive technology ''Archer'' was introduced in [[2458]]</ref><ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/74/archer-arc-2r ''MUL online date for'' {{PAGENAME}}]</ref> | ||
| Line 25: | Line 25: | ||
==Description== | ==Description== | ||
| − | Introduced in [[Introduction Year::2474]] | + | Introduced in [[Introduction Year::2474]], the '''''Archer''''' was one of the best-known and most widely-used [[BattleMech]]s available. A contemporary of 'Mechs such as the ''[[Thunderbolt]]'' and the ''[[Banshee (BattleMech)|Banshee]]'', the ''Archer'''s primary role was fire support, though early in its combat career it was considered an assault 'Mech capable of long-range brawling, and it has found use in a variety of other roles. More than 100,000 ''Archers'' were produced between its introduction and the start of the [[First Succession War]], with tens of thousands of its variant models produced over the centuries. Though many were destroyed or dismantled for spare parts, they remained a common sight in the [[Great House]] armies, with six different factories producing new ''Archers'' throughout the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]].<ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3025>''Technical Readout: 3025'', p. 92</ref> |
| − | The | + | The recovery of the [[Helm Memory Core]] had a profound effect on ''Archer'' development. New variants were produced which utilized rediscovered [[lostech]], giving the venerable 'Mech a few new tricks to surprise its opponents. By the time of the [[Clan Invasion]], most of the major manufacturers had switched over to building these new variants for the [[Free Worlds League]], [[Federated Commonwealth]], [[Free Rasalhague Republic]] and [[Wolf's Dragoons]]; only [[Vandenberg Mechanized Industries]] continued to build original ARC-2R ''Archers'' for the [[Taurian Concordat]].<ref name=TRO3050>''Technical Readout: 3050'', p. 160</ref> Newer, more advanced variants of the ''Archer'' continued to be developed as technology progressed in the years since.<ref name=TROPP>''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', p. 44</ref> |
==Weapons and Equipment== | ==Weapons and Equipment== | ||
| − | The ''Archer'''s primary weapons | + | The ''Archer'''s primary weapons were a pair of Doombud [[LRM-20]] missile launchers with four tons of ammunition, enough for two minutes of continuous fire, split between either side torso. When it was a still relatively unknown design, some ''Archer'' drivers were known to keep their missile bay doors closed in order to fool the enemy, but this trick has since lost its effect. For close combat situations, the ''Archer'' carries four Diverse Optics Type 18 [[Medium Laser]]s. Each arm is equipped with a laser, with the other two mounted on a centrally-located turret above the cockpit, giving them a clear field of fire to attack targets behind the 'Mech. Though not a particularly adept hand-to-hand combatant, the oversized battle fists serve the ''Archer'' well in close combat, and allow it to easily pilfer supplies when taking part in a raid.<ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3025/> |
| + | |||
| + | The ''Archer'' was well protected by thirteen tons of armor and had a cruising speed of 44.1 km/h. However, it suffered from a poor heat management system, with just ten [[heat sinks]] to remove waste heat; an ''Archer'' firing both LRM launchers and its lasers would start to overheat. The ''Archer'' also suffered in part for being for being so common: most enemy pilots were very familiar with the design's capabilities, and how to exploit that to their advantage. The most unique feature of the ''Archer'' compared to other humanoid 'Mechs was its cockpit placement, located beneath the central torso. Although giving the MechWarrior a unique battlefield perspective, this placement didn't give provide any additional protection compared to other 'Mechs as the torso armor belt was above the cockpit, shielding the [[Gyro]] and engine from enemy fire.<ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3025/> | ||
==Variants== | ==Variants== | ||
| − | *;ARC-2K : The 2K ''Archer'' | + | *;ARC-2K : The 2K ''Archer'' was a modification built for [[House Kurita]] in [[2856]], designed to increase its direct firepower capability and give it more staying power on the battlefield once it had run out of ammunition. The 'Mech replaced the LRM-20 launchers with two FarFire 15 [[LRM-15]] launchers and removed all of the medium lasers along with some armor, using the saved weight to add two [[Large Laser]]s, one in each arm, and two [[heat sink]]s. Besides its use with Combine forces, this variant became common among the [[KungsArmé]] following its formation.<ref name=TRO3025/> BV (1.0) = 977, BV (2.0) = 1,356<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 482</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-2Rb : Equipped with [[Star League]] technology, the 2Rb variant of the ''Archer'' | + | *;ARC-2Rb : Equipped with [[Star League]] technology, the 2Rb variant of the ''Archer'' was built for [[SLDF Royal units]] starting in [[2752]]. Built on an [[Endo Steel]] internal structure, this variant dropped one of the rear-firing medium lasers and one ton of ammunition to equip the LRM-20s with [[Artemis IV]] fire control systems and [[CASE]]. The 2Rb also used ten [[double heat sink]]s to keep the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 1,705<ref>''Record Sheets: Operation Klondike'', p. 46</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-2R (C) : A [[Clan]]-tech retrofit of the standard [[SLDF]] ARC-2R ''Archer'' and intended for second-line and [[solahma]] troops, the ''Archer C'' | + | *;ARC-2R (C) : A [[Clan]]-tech retrofit of the standard [[SLDF]] ARC-2R ''Archer'' and intended for second-line and [[solahma]] troops, the ''Archer C'' replaced all [[Inner Sphere]] weaponry with their Clan counterparts without modifying any structural components. The ''Archer C'' mounted a pair of LRM-20s, capable of launching [[Swarm LRM]] munitions, and a quartet of [[ER Medium Laser]]s.<ref name=BFT>''The Battle for Twycross'', p. 49</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,721<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 161</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-2S : The 2S | + | *;ARC-2S : The 2S was another modification made to allow the ''Archer'' to defend itself more easily against an enemy that managed to close range with it. Built for [[House Steiner]] in [[2915]], the 2S replaced the LRM-20 launchers with two LRM-15 launchers and used the saved weight to add two [[SRM-4]] launchers, carried in either side torso along with one ton of ammunition per launcher, giving it additional short range firepower.<ref name=TRO3025/> BV (1.0) = 997, BV (2.0) = 1,393<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 484</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-2W : The 2W | + | *;ARC-2W : The 2W, introduced in [[3010]], was similar to the 2S model but increased its close range firepower in a different manner. Like the 2S it mounted a pair of SRM-4 launchers but carried just one ton of reloads for them, and it retained the LRM-20 launchers. Instead the two rear firing medium lasers were removed and armor protection was reduced by three tons in order to make these modifications. This was the trademark subvariant used by [[Wolf's Dragoons]], which they produced in the assembly plant aboard their space station ''Hephaestos'' until its destruction in [[3028]]. '''Note:''' It was once stated by [[Jaime Wolf]] that all of the Dragoons' ''Archers'' were of this variant, but this is unconfirmed. <ref>''[[Wolves on the Border]]''</ref> BV (1.0) = 932, BV (2.0) = 1,338<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 485</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-4M : An upgrade using rediscovered [[Star League]] technology, the 4M | + | *;ARC-4M : An upgrade using rediscovered [[Star League]] technology, the 4M was built built on [[Calloway VI]] by Earthwerks in [[3049]] for the Free Worlds League. It used an Earthwerk Archer II [[Endo Steel]] chassis to free up weight for a number of improvements. It carried an additional half-ton of Maximillian 100 armor and utilized ten [[double heat sink]]s for added heat dissipation capabilities. The 'Mech also upgraded its twin LRM-20 launchers by adding [[Artemis IV]] fire control systems to the launchers and incorporate [[CASE]] to protect the four tons of missile reloads.<ref name=TRO3050/> BV (1.0) = 1,539, BV (2.0) = 1,705<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 148</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-5R : Built | + | *;ARC-5R : Built by the GKT Enterprise factory on [[Satalice]] for the Free Rasalhague Republic, the 5R was introduced in [[3050]] and bore similarities to the 2K model of the ''Archer''. It carried a pair of FarFire LRM-15 launchers but mounted two Victory Nickel Alloy [[ER Large Laser]]s, one in either arm, in place of the medium lasers. It also mated Artemis IV fire control systems to the launchers and utilized twelve double heat sinks to improve wast heat dissipation. Despite being built around an Endo-Steel chassis, these improvements necessitated a decrease in armor protection by two tons.<ref name=TRO3050/> BV (1.0) = 1,319{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,672<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 149</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-5S : The 5S variant of the ''Archer'' | + | *;ARC-5S : The 5S variant of the ''Archer'', built out of Defiance Industries' massive [[Hesperus II]] complex in 3050, was the official variant for the [[Armed Forces of the Federated Commonwealth]]. The 5S upgraded the engine to an Edasich Motors 280 [[XL Engine]], cutting the engine's weight in half while retaining the same speed profile. The 5S also reduced the LRM-20 launchers to LRM-15s. The saved weight was used to add two Coventry T4H [[Streak SRM-2]] launchers, one in either arm and fed by two tons of reloads in the side torsos, and upgrade the four medium lasers to [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s. Finally, the 'Mech carried a Doering Electronics Glowworm [[Narc Missile Beacon]] launcher in its left torso along with one ton of ammo. This allowed the ''Archer'' to tag enemy units with a beacon so that friendly 'Mechs could more easily hit the unit with their own missile weapons. All of the ammunition carried by the 5S was protected by CASE.<ref name=TRO3050/> BV (1.0) = 1,122{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,353<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 150</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-5W : The 5W | + | *;ARC-5W : The 5W was an upgrade of the 2W variant, produced for Wolf's Dragoons by Bowie Industries at [[Alarion]] in an orbital 'Mech repair facility which was expanded into a 'Mech assembly line. Introduced in 3050, the 'Mech was upgraded with an XL Engine to save weight and used ten double heat sinks for greater heat dissipation. It retained the two LRM-20 launchers but replaced all other weaponry with two TharHes Blue SRM-4 launchers split between either arm and a Narc Missile Beacon launcher in the center torso. The 5W was supplied with four tons of LRM reloads, two tons of SRM reloads, and two tons of Narc reloads, all carried in the CASE-protected side torsos.<ref name=TRO3050/> BV (1.0) = 1,128{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,337<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 151</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-6S : The 6S variant of the ''Archer'' | + | *;ARC-6S : The 6S variant of the ''Archer'' was built in [[3067]] by Bowie Industries using a new [[Light Fusion Engine]], which weighed three quarters of the mass of the original engine. The 'Mech carried two LRM-20 launchers mated to Artemis IV fire control systems and two Streak SRM-2 launchers as well as two medium Lasers for close combat. As a defensive measure, the 'Mech had an [[ER Small Laser]] mounted in the rear of its head for added protection. The variant carried six tons of ammo for the LRM and two tons for the SRM, all of which were protected by CASE.<ref name=TROPP/> BV (1.0) = 1,480{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,694<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 152</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-6W : The 6W | + | *;ARC-6W : The 6W was a [[Periphery]] upgrade of the ''Archer'' built by VMI out of [[New Vandenberg]], though technically it used older rather than newer technology. This variant carried its four medium lasers in its arms and mounted eight [[Rocket Launcher 20]]s and two [[Rocket Launcher 10]]s. These weapons gave it a powerful [[Alpha Strike (Tactic)|one-shot capability]] or could be used one at a time over an extended period. BV (1.0) = 1,239{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,405<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 153 </ref> |
| − | *;ARC-7L : Built | + | *;ARC-7L : Built for the [[Capellan Confederation]] by Earthwerks in 3067, the 7L variant of the ''Archer'' incorporated new [[Stealth Armor]] and a [[Guardian ECM Suite]] for protection against enemy electronics in addition to making the ''Archer'' harder to target. The 'Mech carried twelve and a half tons of Stealth Armor and was armed with two LRM-20 launchers and two [[ER Medium Laser]]s. The trade-off for this massive upgrade was the fact that the 'Mech's top speed was reduced to 54 km/h. In an attempt to compensate for this, the 'Mech also had three [[jump jet]]s mounted, making it capable of jumping up to ninety meters at a time. The 7L was slated to fit out the [[CCAF]]'s new Shadow Lances.<ref name=TROPP/> BV (1.0) = 1,612{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,920<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 154</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-7S : The ''Archer'' 7S | + | *;ARC-7S : The ''Archer'' 7S was an upgrade of the 6S model, introduced in [[3070]], which used Durallex Guardian [[Heavy Ferro-Fibrous]] armor with CASE in place of the Endo Steel structure used on the 6S. The 7S had two LRM-20 launchers with Artemis IV for increased missile accuracy and, for close range defense, carried a Diverse Optics [[ER Medium Laser]] and a rear facing Magna 200P [[Small Pulse Laser]] in addition to the pair of Hovertec Streak SRM-2 launchers. BV (2.0) = 1,658<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 155</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-8M : The 8M variant of the ''Archer'' | + | *;ARC-8M : The 8M variant of the ''Archer'' was built on an Endo Steel chassis and mixed elements of several past variants. Introduced in 3067 by Earthwerks for the [[Word of Blake Militia]], this variant was armed with two Delta Dart LRM-15 launchers mated to Artemis IV fire control systems in either side torso and an [[ER Large Laser]] in the center torso for long-range combat. It also mounted three [[ER Medium Laser]]s for close range support, one in either arm and the third in its head. This made the 8M effective at all ranges and gave it both long-range direct and indirect capabilities. The 8M was protected by thirteen and a half tons of Maximilian 100 standard armor which was better slopped in order to deflect weapons fire more easily, carried twelve double heat sinks, and had a similar speed profile to the original ''Archer''. Its upper body traversing assembly was improved over the original to better protect its hip actuators and its feet were redesigned to make it a more stable firing platform, whether standing or on the move. Four tons of LRM reloads split between the side torsos were protected by CASE.<ref name=TROPP/> BV (1.0) = 1,377{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,759<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 156</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-9K : The ''Archer'' 9K | + | *;ARC-9K : The ''Archer'' 9K, introduced in [[3071]], carried as its primary weapons four new [[MML-5]] launchers that were capable of firing both [[LRM]] and [[SRM]] ammunition. These gave the 'Mech a great deal of tactical flexibility. For long range direct fire capabilities, the 'Mech had three [[Light PPC]]s and a [[C3 Slave]] that allowed the 'Mech to share targeting data with friendly units. BV (2.0) = 1,391<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 157</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-9KC : This ''Archer'' | + | *;ARC-9KC : This ''Archer'' variant, based on the 9K, was introduced during the [[Dark Ages]]. It retained the four MML-5 launchers and two of the three Light PPCs of the earlier design, but replaced the third Light PPC and C3 Slave with a [[C3 Boosted Slave]] and ER medium laser. BV (2.0) = 1,361<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 149</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-9M : This variant | + | *;ARC-9M : This variant used a 210 [[Light Engine]], dropping the top speed to 54 km/h, but five [[Improved Jump Jet]]s compensate for this lack of speed. Built in [[3076]], the standard weapons were replaced by an LRM-15 with Artemis IV FCS and an ER Medium Laser in each torso, while a Light PPC was mounted in each arm. Eleven tons of [[Light Ferro-Fibrous]] armor and CASE protected the 'Mech. BV (2.0) = 1,811<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 257</ref> |
| − | *;ARC-9W : Used by the [[Word of Blake]]'s [[Protectorate Militia]], this ''Archer'' variant | + | *;ARC-9W : Used by the [[Word of Blake]]'s [[Protectorate Militia]] in [[3078]], this ''Archer'' variant carried a pair of ER Large Lasers and Artemis IV-enhanced LRM-15 launchers, with a maximum speed of 58km/h. For protection, the 9W used an [[Experimental Technology|experimental]] [[Angel ECM Suite]] and [[Void Signature System]].<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 256</ref> BV (2.0) = 2,004<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 160</ref> |
===Custom Variants=== | ===Custom Variants=== | ||
| − | * ''Archer Wolf'' - This variant of the ''Archer'' | + | * ''Archer Wolf'' - This variant of the ''Archer'' carried Clan-spec equipment. The arms mounted [[ER Large Laser]]s, while a pair of [[Small Pulse Laser]]s covered the rear. The LRM-20s were enhanced with Artemis IV Fire Control Systems, and an [[ECM Suite]] and [[AMS]] protected against incoming fire. CASE was carried in each side torso and fifteen double heat sinks kept the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 2,365<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 162</ref> |
==Notable Pilots== | ==Notable Pilots== | ||
| − | *[[Jaime Wolf]]: It is implied from conjecture that he initially piloted his unit's trademark | + | *[[Jaime Wolf]]: It is implied from conjecture that he initially piloted his unit's trademark 2W variant. He lost one such vehicle on [[Barlow's End]] in [[3026]] but continued to pilot ''Archers'' (presumably advanced technology versions). He was found dead in his ''Archer'' near the end of the [[Battle of Harlech City]] on October 18, 3067. |
*[[Morgan Kell]]: The commander of the [[Kell Hounds]] became famous in the legendary [[Phantom 'Mech]] incident. | *[[Morgan Kell]]: The commander of the [[Kell Hounds]] became famous in the legendary [[Phantom 'Mech]] incident. | ||
Revision as of 13:17, 13 December 2015
| |
| Archer | |
|---|---|
| Production information | |
| Manufacturer | Bowie Industries [1] Diplass BattleMechs[2] Earthwerks Incorporated[3] LexaTech Industries[4], Vandenberg Mechanized Industries[3] Defiance Industries [5], Gorton, Kingsley & Thorpe Enterprises [3] |
| Production Year | 2474[6][7] |
| Model | ARC-2R |
| Class | Heavy |
| Cost | 6,384,974 C-bills |
| Technical specifications | |
| 'Mech type | Inner Sphere |
| Mass | 70 tons |
| Chassis | Earthwerk Archer |
| Armor | Maximillian 100 |
| Engine | VOX 280 |
| Communications System | Neil 9000 |
| Targeting Tracking System | RCA Instatrac Mark XII |
| Heat Sinks | 10 |
| Speed | 64.8 km/h |
| Armament |
|
| BV (1.0) | 1,117 |
| BV (2.0) | 1,477[8] |
Contents
Description
Introduced in 2474, the Archer was one of the best-known and most widely-used BattleMechs available. A contemporary of 'Mechs such as the Thunderbolt and the Banshee, the Archer's primary role was fire support, though early in its combat career it was considered an assault 'Mech capable of long-range brawling, and it has found use in a variety of other roles. More than 100,000 Archers were produced between its introduction and the start of the First Succession War, with tens of thousands of its variant models produced over the centuries. Though many were destroyed or dismantled for spare parts, they remained a common sight in the Great House armies, with six different factories producing new Archers throughout the Succession Wars.[3][9]
The recovery of the Helm Memory Core had a profound effect on Archer development. New variants were produced which utilized rediscovered lostech, giving the venerable 'Mech a few new tricks to surprise its opponents. By the time of the Clan Invasion, most of the major manufacturers had switched over to building these new variants for the Free Worlds League, Federated Commonwealth, Free Rasalhague Republic and Wolf's Dragoons; only Vandenberg Mechanized Industries continued to build original ARC-2R Archers for the Taurian Concordat.[10] Newer, more advanced variants of the Archer continued to be developed as technology progressed in the years since.[11]
Weapons and Equipment
The Archer's primary weapons were a pair of Doombud LRM-20 missile launchers with four tons of ammunition, enough for two minutes of continuous fire, split between either side torso. When it was a still relatively unknown design, some Archer drivers were known to keep their missile bay doors closed in order to fool the enemy, but this trick has since lost its effect. For close combat situations, the Archer carries four Diverse Optics Type 18 Medium Lasers. Each arm is equipped with a laser, with the other two mounted on a centrally-located turret above the cockpit, giving them a clear field of fire to attack targets behind the 'Mech. Though not a particularly adept hand-to-hand combatant, the oversized battle fists serve the Archer well in close combat, and allow it to easily pilfer supplies when taking part in a raid.[3][9]
The Archer was well protected by thirteen tons of armor and had a cruising speed of 44.1 km/h. However, it suffered from a poor heat management system, with just ten heat sinks to remove waste heat; an Archer firing both LRM launchers and its lasers would start to overheat. The Archer also suffered in part for being for being so common: most enemy pilots were very familiar with the design's capabilities, and how to exploit that to their advantage. The most unique feature of the Archer compared to other humanoid 'Mechs was its cockpit placement, located beneath the central torso. Although giving the MechWarrior a unique battlefield perspective, this placement didn't give provide any additional protection compared to other 'Mechs as the torso armor belt was above the cockpit, shielding the Gyro and engine from enemy fire.[3][9]
Variants
- ARC-2K
- The 2K Archer was a modification built for House Kurita in 2856, designed to increase its direct firepower capability and give it more staying power on the battlefield once it had run out of ammunition. The 'Mech replaced the LRM-20 launchers with two FarFire 15 LRM-15 launchers and removed all of the medium lasers along with some armor, using the saved weight to add two Large Lasers, one in each arm, and two heat sinks. Besides its use with Combine forces, this variant became common among the KungsArmé following its formation.[9] BV (1.0) = 977, BV (2.0) = 1,356[12]
- ARC-2Rb
- Equipped with Star League technology, the 2Rb variant of the Archer was built for SLDF Royal units starting in 2752. Built on an Endo Steel internal structure, this variant dropped one of the rear-firing medium lasers and one ton of ammunition to equip the LRM-20s with Artemis IV fire control systems and CASE. The 2Rb also used ten double heat sinks to keep the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 1,705[13]
- ARC-2R (C)
- A Clan-tech retrofit of the standard SLDF ARC-2R Archer and intended for second-line and solahma troops, the Archer C replaced all Inner Sphere weaponry with their Clan counterparts without modifying any structural components. The Archer C mounted a pair of LRM-20s, capable of launching Swarm LRM munitions, and a quartet of ER Medium Lasers.[14] BV (2.0) = 1,721[15]
- ARC-2S
- The 2S was another modification made to allow the Archer to defend itself more easily against an enemy that managed to close range with it. Built for House Steiner in 2915, the 2S replaced the LRM-20 launchers with two LRM-15 launchers and used the saved weight to add two SRM-4 launchers, carried in either side torso along with one ton of ammunition per launcher, giving it additional short range firepower.[9] BV (1.0) = 997, BV (2.0) = 1,393[16]
- ARC-2W
- The 2W, introduced in 3010, was similar to the 2S model but increased its close range firepower in a different manner. Like the 2S it mounted a pair of SRM-4 launchers but carried just one ton of reloads for them, and it retained the LRM-20 launchers. Instead the two rear firing medium lasers were removed and armor protection was reduced by three tons in order to make these modifications. This was the trademark subvariant used by Wolf's Dragoons, which they produced in the assembly plant aboard their space station Hephaestos until its destruction in 3028. Note: It was once stated by Jaime Wolf that all of the Dragoons' Archers were of this variant, but this is unconfirmed. [17] BV (1.0) = 932, BV (2.0) = 1,338[18]
- ARC-4M
- An upgrade using rediscovered Star League technology, the 4M was built built on Calloway VI by Earthwerks in 3049 for the Free Worlds League. It used an Earthwerk Archer II Endo Steel chassis to free up weight for a number of improvements. It carried an additional half-ton of Maximillian 100 armor and utilized ten double heat sinks for added heat dissipation capabilities. The 'Mech also upgraded its twin LRM-20 launchers by adding Artemis IV fire control systems to the launchers and incorporate CASE to protect the four tons of missile reloads.[10] BV (1.0) = 1,539, BV (2.0) = 1,705[19]
- ARC-5R
- Built by the GKT Enterprise factory on Satalice for the Free Rasalhague Republic, the 5R was introduced in 3050 and bore similarities to the 2K model of the Archer. It carried a pair of FarFire LRM-15 launchers but mounted two Victory Nickel Alloy ER Large Lasers, one in either arm, in place of the medium lasers. It also mated Artemis IV fire control systems to the launchers and utilized twelve double heat sinks to improve wast heat dissipation. Despite being built around an Endo-Steel chassis, these improvements necessitated a decrease in armor protection by two tons.[10] BV (1.0) = 1,319[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,672[20]
- ARC-5S
- The 5S variant of the Archer, built out of Defiance Industries' massive Hesperus II complex in 3050, was the official variant for the Armed Forces of the Federated Commonwealth. The 5S upgraded the engine to an Edasich Motors 280 XL Engine, cutting the engine's weight in half while retaining the same speed profile. The 5S also reduced the LRM-20 launchers to LRM-15s. The saved weight was used to add two Coventry T4H Streak SRM-2 launchers, one in either arm and fed by two tons of reloads in the side torsos, and upgrade the four medium lasers to Medium Pulse Lasers. Finally, the 'Mech carried a Doering Electronics Glowworm Narc Missile Beacon launcher in its left torso along with one ton of ammo. This allowed the Archer to tag enemy units with a beacon so that friendly 'Mechs could more easily hit the unit with their own missile weapons. All of the ammunition carried by the 5S was protected by CASE.[10] BV (1.0) = 1,122[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,353[21]
- ARC-5W
- The 5W was an upgrade of the 2W variant, produced for Wolf's Dragoons by Bowie Industries at Alarion in an orbital 'Mech repair facility which was expanded into a 'Mech assembly line. Introduced in 3050, the 'Mech was upgraded with an XL Engine to save weight and used ten double heat sinks for greater heat dissipation. It retained the two LRM-20 launchers but replaced all other weaponry with two TharHes Blue SRM-4 launchers split between either arm and a Narc Missile Beacon launcher in the center torso. The 5W was supplied with four tons of LRM reloads, two tons of SRM reloads, and two tons of Narc reloads, all carried in the CASE-protected side torsos.[10] BV (1.0) = 1,128[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,337[22]
- ARC-6S
- The 6S variant of the Archer was built in 3067 by Bowie Industries using a new Light Fusion Engine, which weighed three quarters of the mass of the original engine. The 'Mech carried two LRM-20 launchers mated to Artemis IV fire control systems and two Streak SRM-2 launchers as well as two medium Lasers for close combat. As a defensive measure, the 'Mech had an ER Small Laser mounted in the rear of its head for added protection. The variant carried six tons of ammo for the LRM and two tons for the SRM, all of which were protected by CASE.[11] BV (1.0) = 1,480[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,694[23]
- ARC-6W
- The 6W was a Periphery upgrade of the Archer built by VMI out of New Vandenberg, though technically it used older rather than newer technology. This variant carried its four medium lasers in its arms and mounted eight Rocket Launcher 20s and two Rocket Launcher 10s. These weapons gave it a powerful one-shot capability or could be used one at a time over an extended period. BV (1.0) = 1,239[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,405[24]
- ARC-7L
- Built for the Capellan Confederation by Earthwerks in 3067, the 7L variant of the Archer incorporated new Stealth Armor and a Guardian ECM Suite for protection against enemy electronics in addition to making the Archer harder to target. The 'Mech carried twelve and a half tons of Stealth Armor and was armed with two LRM-20 launchers and two ER Medium Lasers. The trade-off for this massive upgrade was the fact that the 'Mech's top speed was reduced to 54 km/h. In an attempt to compensate for this, the 'Mech also had three jump jets mounted, making it capable of jumping up to ninety meters at a time. The 7L was slated to fit out the CCAF's new Shadow Lances.[11] BV (1.0) = 1,612[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,920[25]
- ARC-7S
- The Archer 7S was an upgrade of the 6S model, introduced in 3070, which used Durallex Guardian Heavy Ferro-Fibrous armor with CASE in place of the Endo Steel structure used on the 6S. The 7S had two LRM-20 launchers with Artemis IV for increased missile accuracy and, for close range defense, carried a Diverse Optics ER Medium Laser and a rear facing Magna 200P Small Pulse Laser in addition to the pair of Hovertec Streak SRM-2 launchers. BV (2.0) = 1,658[26]
- ARC-8M
- The 8M variant of the Archer was built on an Endo Steel chassis and mixed elements of several past variants. Introduced in 3067 by Earthwerks for the Word of Blake Militia, this variant was armed with two Delta Dart LRM-15 launchers mated to Artemis IV fire control systems in either side torso and an ER Large Laser in the center torso for long-range combat. It also mounted three ER Medium Lasers for close range support, one in either arm and the third in its head. This made the 8M effective at all ranges and gave it both long-range direct and indirect capabilities. The 8M was protected by thirteen and a half tons of Maximilian 100 standard armor which was better slopped in order to deflect weapons fire more easily, carried twelve double heat sinks, and had a similar speed profile to the original Archer. Its upper body traversing assembly was improved over the original to better protect its hip actuators and its feet were redesigned to make it a more stable firing platform, whether standing or on the move. Four tons of LRM reloads split between the side torsos were protected by CASE.[11] BV (1.0) = 1,377[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,759[27]
- ARC-9K
- The Archer 9K, introduced in 3071, carried as its primary weapons four new MML-5 launchers that were capable of firing both LRM and SRM ammunition. These gave the 'Mech a great deal of tactical flexibility. For long range direct fire capabilities, the 'Mech had three Light PPCs and a C3 Slave that allowed the 'Mech to share targeting data with friendly units. BV (2.0) = 1,391[28]
- ARC-9KC
- This Archer variant, based on the 9K, was introduced during the Dark Ages. It retained the four MML-5 launchers and two of the three Light PPCs of the earlier design, but replaced the third Light PPC and C3 Slave with a C3 Boosted Slave and ER medium laser. BV (2.0) = 1,361[29]
- ARC-9M
- This variant used a 210 Light Engine, dropping the top speed to 54 km/h, but five Improved Jump Jets compensate for this lack of speed. Built in 3076, the standard weapons were replaced by an LRM-15 with Artemis IV FCS and an ER Medium Laser in each torso, while a Light PPC was mounted in each arm. Eleven tons of Light Ferro-Fibrous armor and CASE protected the 'Mech. BV (2.0) = 1,811[30]
- ARC-9W
- Used by the Word of Blake's Protectorate Militia in 3078, this Archer variant carried a pair of ER Large Lasers and Artemis IV-enhanced LRM-15 launchers, with a maximum speed of 58km/h. For protection, the 9W used an experimental Angel ECM Suite and Void Signature System.[31] BV (2.0) = 2,004[32]
Custom Variants
- Archer Wolf - This variant of the Archer carried Clan-spec equipment. The arms mounted ER Large Lasers, while a pair of Small Pulse Lasers covered the rear. The LRM-20s were enhanced with Artemis IV Fire Control Systems, and an ECM Suite and AMS protected against incoming fire. CASE was carried in each side torso and fifteen double heat sinks kept the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 2,365[33]
Notable Pilots
- Jaime Wolf: It is implied from conjecture that he initially piloted his unit's trademark 2W variant. He lost one such vehicle on Barlow's End in 3026 but continued to pilot Archers (presumably advanced technology versions). He was found dead in his Archer near the end of the Battle of Harlech City on October 18, 3067.
- Morgan Kell: The commander of the Kell Hounds became famous in the legendary Phantom 'Mech incident.
- Alexander Carlyle, son of Grayson Carlyle of the Gray Death Legion, piloted an Archer during the Skye Rebellion of 3056.[34]
BattleMech Gallery
ARC-4M Archer
ARC-6S Archer
ARC-6W Archer
ARC-7L Archer
ARC-8M Archer
ARC-9M Archer
Morgan Kell's Archer
A Wolf's Dragoons Archer attacks another Archer
An Archer undergoing repairs
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References
- ↑ Objectives: Lyran Alliance, p.29
- ↑ Field Report 2765: Periphery, p. 11, "Infrastructural Integrity"
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 Technical Readout: 3039, p.296
- ↑ Technical Readout: 3085, p. 256
- ↑ Objectives: Lyran Alliance, p.29
- ↑ Era Digest: Age of War, p. 11 and 22, state a primitive technology Archer was introduced in 2458
- ↑ MUL online date for Archer
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 499
- ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 Technical Readout: 3025, p. 92
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 Technical Readout: 3050, p. 160
- ↑ 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 Technical Readout: Project Phoenix, p. 44
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 482
- ↑ Record Sheets: Operation Klondike, p. 46
- ↑ The Battle for Twycross, p. 49
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 161
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 484
- ↑ Wolves on the Border
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 485
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 148
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 149
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 150
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 151
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 152
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 153
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 154
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 155
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 156
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 157
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades, p. 149
- ↑ Technical Readout: 3085, p. 257
- ↑ Technical Readout: 3085, p. 256
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 160
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 162
- ↑ Blood of Heroes
Bibliography
- Field Report 2765: Periphery
- ARC-7S Archer Technical Readout
- Master Unit List
- Objectives: Lyran Alliance
- Record Sheets: 3025/3026
- Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged
- Record Sheets: 3050
- Record Sheets: 3067
- Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix
- Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades
- Technical Readout: 3025
- Technical Readout: 3039
- Technical Readout: 3050
- Technical Readout: Project Phoenix
- The Battle for Twycross
- Total Warfare Style Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades
- Record Sheets: Operation Klondike
- Technical Readout: 3085
- Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades