Difference between revisions of "Assassin"

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|model=ASN-21<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
 
|model=ASN-21<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
 
|class=Medium<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
 
|class=Medium<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
|cost= 3,765,813 C-bills
+
|cost= 3,765,813 [[C-bill]]s
 
|Tech Base=[[Inner Sphere]]
 
|Tech Base=[[Inner Sphere]]
 
|mech type=Battlemech
 
|mech type=Battlemech
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|comsys=[[Garret T15 B]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
 
|comsys=[[Garret T15 B]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
 
|T&T=[[Garret 500S]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
 
|T&T=[[Garret 500S]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
|heat sinks=10<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
+
|heat sinks=10 [[single heat sink]]s<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
 
|armament=  
 
|armament=  
* 1x [[medium laser]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
+
* 1x [[Medium laser]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
*1x [[LRM-5]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
+
* 1x [[LRM-5]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
*1x [[SRM-2]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
+
* 1x [[SRM-2]]<ref name=TM3039116-117/>
 
|BV (1.0)=596<ref name=CO>''Combat Operations'', p. 121</ref>
 
|BV (1.0)=596<ref name=CO>''Combat Operations'', p. 121</ref>
 
|BV (2.0)=749<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 94</ref>
 
|BV (2.0)=749<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 94</ref>
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==Description==
 
==Description==
The '''''Assassin''''' is a [[BattleMech]] that began life because of corporate ambitions and successful lobbyists. Though there was no need for a new medium 'Mech in its arsenal, the [[Maltex Corporation]] lobbied the [[Star League]] to purchase the ''Assassin'' as a replacement for the lighter ''[[Wasp]]'' and ''[[Stinger]]''. They were successful largely through over-hyped performance statistics, fuzzy budget approximations and some greased palms, and even then only several hundred were constructed before production slowed to a crawl after two ''Assassin'' factories came under investigation for quality control violations. Still, the ''Assassin'' proved to be popular with garrison forces of the [[SLDF]] and the [[Marik Militia]]; with an impressive top speed and jumping distance of 210 meters combined with excellent coverage for its four and a half tons of armor and solid firepower, the ''Assassin'' was considered a superb reconnaissance and light 'Mech hunter in its own right.<ref name=IRS>''[[Introductory Record Sheets]], pp 6</ref><ref name=TM302534-35>''Technical Readout: 3025'', p. 34-35, "Assassin Profile"</ref><ref name=TM3039116-117>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 116-117, "ASN-21 ''Assassin''"</ref>
+
The '''''Assassin''''' is a [[BattleMech]] that began life because of corporate ambitions and successful lobbyists. Though there was no need for a new medium 'Mech in its arsenal, the [[Maltex Corporation]] lobbied the [[Star League]] to purchase the ''Assassin'' as a replacement for the lighter ''[[Wasp]]'' and ''[[Stinger]]''. They were successful largely through over-hyped performance statistics, fuzzy budget approximations, and some greased palms, and even then only several hundred were constructed before production slowed to a crawl after two ''Assassin'' factories came under investigation for quality control violations. Still, the ''Assassin'' proved to be popular with garrison forces of the [[SLDF]] and the [[Marik Militia]]; with an impressive top speed and jumping distance of 210 meters combined with excellent coverage for its four and a half tons of armor and solid firepower, the ''Assassin'' was considered a superb reconnaissance and light 'Mech hunter in its own right.<ref name=IRS>''[[Introductory Record Sheets]], pp 6</ref><ref name=TM302534-35>''Technical Readout: 3025'', p. 34-35, "Assassin Profile"</ref><ref name=TM3039116-117>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 116-117, "ASN-21 ''Assassin''"</ref>
  
The ''Assassin'' was not flawless however, especially when Maltex cut corners during its initial production, and it has the dubious distinction of having one of the most cramped cockpits of any [[Inner Sphere]] 'Mech. Dozens of attempts by Maltex over hundreds of years to overhaul the cockpit cooling system to create more elbow-room ended in failure, not only limiting ''Assassin'' pilots' time in-cockpit to half of that of other 'Mechs, but causing many to develop a lifetime of back problems. The ''Assassin'' would first see combat in [[2980]], long after the fall of the Star League, when the [[Free Worlds League]] successfully fought off the [[Federated Suns]] for control of [[Rochelle]] during the [[Third Succession War]]. The ''Assassin'' fared better than other 'Mechs during the bloody battle and House Marik became an enthusiastic user of the design late into the war. Eventually the use of ''Assassins'' by all sides lessened due to a shortage of spare parts, with the [[Capellan Confederation]] simply running out of these 'Mechs by [[3025]], though its modular design and access systems allowed it to survive.<ref name=TM302534-35/><ref name=TM3039116-117/>
+
The ''Assassin'' was not flawless however, especially when Maltex cut corners during its initial production, and it has the dubious distinction of having one of the most cramped cockpits of any [[Inner Sphere]] 'Mech. Dozens of attempts by Maltex over hundreds of years to overhaul the cockpit cooling system to create more elbow-room ended in failure, not only limiting ''Assassin'' pilots' time in-cockpit to half of that of other 'Mechs, but causing many to develop a lifetime of back problems. The ''Assassin'' would first see combat in [[2980]], long after the fall of the Star League, when the [[Free Worlds League]] successfully fought off the [[Federated Suns]] for control of [[Rochelle]] during the [[Third Succession War]]. The ''Assassin'' fared better than other 'Mechs during the bloody battle and House Marik became an enthusiastic user of the design late into the war. Eventually the use of ''Assassins'' by all sides lessened due to a shortage of spare parts, with the [[Capellan Confederation]] simply running out of these 'Mechs by [[3025]], though its modular design and access systems allowed it to survive.<ref name=TM302534-35/><ref name=TM3039116-117/>
  
By [[3058]], most ''Assassins'' had been phased out of service, with the remaining 'Mechs mostly family heirlooms passed down through [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarrior]] families and with many modifications. [[Defiance Industries]] was licensed by Maltex to produce a variant, the ASN-30, for the Lyrans during the [[FedCom Civil War]], but it was largely seen as a failure. The ''Assassin'' would see a resurgence in [[3067]] when [[Hellespont 'Mech Works]] acquired the design from Maltex, thanks in part to minor distractions facing Maltex such as charges of tax evasion and collusion with the [[Word of Blake]], and began producing the ASN-23 for the Capellans, the [[Taurian Concordat]] and the [[Magistracy of Canopus]].<ref name=TM3050U34-35>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p.34-35, "Assassin Profile"</ref>
+
By [[3058]], most ''Assassins'' had been phased out of service, with the remaining 'Mechs mostly family heirlooms passed down through [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarrior]] families and with many modifications. [[Defiance Industries]] was licensed by Maltex to produce a variant, the ASN-30, for the Lyrans during the [[FedCom Civil War]], but it was largely seen as a failure. The ''Assassin'' would see a resurgence in [[3067]] when [[Hellespont 'Mech Works]] acquired the design from Maltex, thanks in part to minor distractions facing Maltex such as charges of tax evasion and collusion with the [[Word of Blake]], and began producing the ASN-23 for the Capellans, the [[Taurian Concordat]], and the [[Magistracy of Canopus]].<ref name=TM3050U34-35>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p.34-35, "Assassin Profile"</ref>
  
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
The ''Assassin'' is popular for its long-range capabilities thanks to a [[Holly-5]] [[LRM]] launcher in the right side of its torso. Its primary short-range weapon is a [[Holly-2]] [[SRM]] launcher in the torso's left side, supported by a [[Martell]] [[medium laser]] in the right arm. With just two tons of missile ammunition, one ton of LRM and one ton of SRM ammunition though, the 'Mech has limited endurance on extended operations without resupply and is vulnerable when left with only the laser to fight back. ''Assassins'' built before [[2815]] also suffered from a serious design flaw in the short-range missile rack's reloading mechanism, which experienced chronic jamming during high-heat situations and could only be repaired by disassembling the unit. Under severe corporate pressure Maltex finally fixed the problem in newer models and offered several years' funding for recall repairs, though some privately-owned ''Assassins'' might still mount the defective system.<ref name=TM302534-35/><ref name=TM3039116-117/>
+
The ''Assassin'' is popular for its long-range capabilities thanks to a [[Holly-5]] [[LRM-5]] launcher in the right side of its torso. Its primary short-range weapon is a [[SRM-2#Holly_2|Holly-2]] [[SRM-2]] launcher in the torso's left side, supported by a [[Medium_laser#Martell|Martell]] [[medium laser]] in the right arm. With just two tons of missile ammunition, one ton of LRM and one ton of SRM ammunition, the 'Mech has limited endurance on extended operations without resupply and is vulnerable when left with only the laser to fight back. ''Assassins'' built before [[2815]] also suffered from a serious design flaw in the short-range missile rack's reloading mechanism, which experienced chronic jamming during high-heat situations and could only be repaired by disassembling the unit. Under severe corporate pressure Maltex finally fixed the problem in newer models and offered several years' funding for recall repairs, though some privately-owned ''Assassins'' might still mount the defective system.<ref name=TM302534-35/><ref name=TM3039116-117/>
  
 
==Variants==
 
==Variants==
*;ASN-101 : The 101 ''Assassin'' was an unofficial variant produced in limited numbers by the Federated Suns during the Succession Wars. Removing some of the 'Mech's seven jump jets and shaving off a half ton of armor, they were able to fit three [[Maxell 50]] [[Small Laser]]s, one in each leg and the third in the head. The design was seen as a failure, especially since it sacrifices sixty meters of the [['Mech]]'s immense jumping distance.  Only three were purported to have been built and stationed with the [[Capellan March Militia]], though some cite circumstantial evidence of more constructed in secret.<ref name=TM302534-35/><ref name=TM3039116-117/> BV (1.0) = 586, BV (2.0) = 757<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 93</ref>
+
*; ASN-101 : The -101 ''Assassin'' was an unofficial variant produced in limited numbers by the Federated Suns during the Succession Wars. Removing some of the 'Mech's seven [[jump jet]]s and shaving off a half ton of armor, they were able to fit three [[Maxell 50]] [[small laser]]s, one in each leg and the third in the head. The design was seen as a failure, especially since it sacrifices 60 meters of the [['Mech]]'s immense jumping distance, and only three were purported to have been built and stationed with the [[Capellan March Militia]], though some cite circumstantial evidence of more constructed in secret.<ref name=TM302534-35/><ref name=TM3039116-117/> BV (1.0) = 586, BV (2.0) = 757<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 93</ref>
  
*; ASN-23 : The -23 variant of the ''Assassin'' is an upgrade of the original model using [[Lostech]]; originally seen as a standardized field modification,<ref name="TRO:3050Rp82">''Technical Readout: 3050, Revised'', p.82</ref> in [[3067]] new production began at [[Hellespont|Hellespont 'Mech Works]]. The SRM-2 has been removed to upgrade the medium laser to a [[Medium Pulse Laser]] (typically the "readily available" [[Magna 400P]])<ref name="TRO:3050Rp82"/> and an [[Artemis IV]] fire control system has been added for the LRM-5 launcher. Within the [[CCAF]], [[TDF]] and [[MAF]] it is largely used as a cheap way to rebuild shattered forces and sees service mostly in green and reserve formations. The Capellans in particular use the -23 as a fire-support unit for pursuit and strike lances, though shortages of Artemis munitions means many are forced to use [[Thunder LRM|mine-delivery missiles]].<ref name=TM3050U34-35/>  BV (1.0) = 609<ref name=CO />, BV (2.0) = 740<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Inner Sphere)'', p. 72</ref>
+
*; ASN-23 : The -23 variant of the ''Assassin'' is an upgrade of the original model using [[lostech]]; originally seen as a standardized field modification,<ref name="TRO:3050Rp82">''Technical Readout: 3050, Revised'', p.82</ref> in [[3067]] new production began at [[Hellespont|Hellespont 'Mech Works]]. The [[SRM-2]] has been removed to upgrade the [[medium laser]] to a [[medium pulse laser]], typically the "readily available" [[Magna 400P]],<ref name="TRO:3050Rp82"/> and an [[Artemis IV]] fire control system has been added for the [[LRM-5]] launcher. Within the [[CCAF]], [[TDF]], and [[MAF]] it is largely used as a cheap way to rebuild shattered forces and sees service mostly in green and reserve formations. The Capellans in particular use the -23 as a fire-support unit for pursuit and strike lances, though shortages of Artemis munitions means many are forced to use [[Thunder LRM|mine-delivery missiles]].<ref name=TM3050U34-35/>  BV (1.0) = 609<ref name=CO />, BV (2.0) = 740<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Inner Sphere)'', p. 72</ref>
  
*; ASN-30 : The -30 variant of the ''Assassin'' produced under license by Defiance Industries was a radical departure from the classic formula for the [['Mech]]. The chassis was redesigned to utilize [[Endo Steel]] construction and the engine upgraded to a [[light fusion engine]]. The saved weight was used to upgrade the medium laser to an [[ER medium laser|extended range version]] and the LRM and SRM are removed in favor of an [[LB-X Autocannon/5]]. Additionally, the armor had been increased by two full tons and the [[heat sink]]s upgraded to [[double heat sink|double strength versions]]. Used by the Lyran side of the FedCom Civil War, this design is considered a failure and few of them were ever produced.<ref name=TM3050U34-35/> BV (1.0) = 846<ref>''Record Sheets: Upgrades'', p. 58</ref>, BV (2.0) = 925<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Inner Sphere)'', p. 73</ref>
+
*; ASN-30 : The -30 variant of the ''Assassin'', produced under license by Defiance Industries, was a radical departure from the classic formula for the [['Mech]]. The chassis was redesigned to utilize [[endo steel]] construction and the engine upgraded to a [[light fusion engine]]. The saved weight was used to upgrade the [[medium laser]] to an [[ER medium laser]], and the [[LRM-5]] and [[SRM-2]] are removed in favor of an [[LB-X AC/5]]. Additionally, the armor had been increased by two full tons and the [[single heat sink]]s upgraded to [[double heat sink|double strength versions]]. Used by the Lyran side of the FedCom Civil War, this design is considered a failure and few of them were ever produced.<ref name=TM3050U34-35/> BV (1.0) = 846<ref>''Record Sheets: Upgrades'', p. 58</ref>, BV (2.0) = 925<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Inner Sphere)'', p. 73</ref>
  
*;ASN-99 : When Hellespont 'Mech Works first acquired the ''Assassin'' from the Maltex Corporation, the ASN-99 was the original testbed design. Incorporating more armor than any previous variant, thanks in large part to the inclusion of an [[XL engine]], its long-range punch is provided by a [[Light PPC]], while it can rely upon two [[SRM 2]]s at close range. [[Target Acquisition Gear]] enables it to call down supporting fire should the ''Assassin'' find itself embroiled in a fight, this variant mounts [[Stealth Armor]] and a [[Sword]]. BV (1.0) = ??, BV (2.0) = 1,116<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade, Inner Sphere'' p. 74</ref>
+
*; ASN-99 : When Hellespont 'Mech Works first acquired the ''Assassin'' from the Maltex Corporation, the ASN-99 was the original testbed design. Incorporating more armor than any previous variant, thanks in large part to the inclusion of an [[XL engine]], its long-range punch is provided by a [[light PPC]], while it can rely upon two [[SRM-2]]s at close range. [[Target Acquisition Gear]] enables it to call down supporting fire should the ''Assassin'' find itself embroiled in a fight. This variant also mounts [[stealth armor]] and a [[sword]]. BV (1.0) = ??, BV (2.0) = 1,116<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade, Inner Sphere'' p. 74</ref>
  
 
=== Custom Variants ===
 
=== Custom Variants ===
*; ASN-30 Assassin ''Alice'' : A customized ''Assassin'' created by [[Lyran Commonwealth|Lyran]] MechWarrior [[Alice Humpterderby]] of the [[24th Lyran Guards]]. The ''Assassin'' was rebuilt with Davion salvage during the [[FedCom Civil War]]. The Mech is equipped with 7.5 tons of Ferro-Fibrous Armor.  It has four extended range medium lasers: two mounted in the torsos and a pair in the right arm. The lasers have been connected to a salvaged [[Targeting Computer]]. The 'Mech has been fitted with a [[C3 slave unit|C3 slave computer]], a [[Beagle active probe]], and ten [[double heat sinks]]. BV (1.0) = 1,301 (C3 + 108)<ref>''Record Sheets: Unique 'Mechs'', p. 2, "Assassin ''Alice''"</ref>
+
*; ASN-30 Assassin ''Alice'' : A customized ''Assassin'' created by [[Lyran Commonwealth|Lyran]] MechWarrior [[Alice Humpterderby]] of the [[24th Lyran Guards]]. This ''Assassin'' was rebuilt with Davion salvage during the [[FedCom Civil War]], and was equipped with seven and a half tons of [[ferro-fibrous]] armor, four [[ER medium laser]]s split between the torsos and the right arm. The lasers have been connected to a salvaged [[targeting computer]], and a [[C3 slave unit|C3 slave computer]], a [[Beagle active probe]], and 10 [[double heat sinks]] have also been mounted. BV (1.0) = 1,301 (C3 + 108)<ref>''Record Sheets: Unique 'Mechs'', p. 2, "Assassin ''Alice''"</ref>
  
*;Assassin ''Servitor'' : A custom variant of the ASN-99 ''Assassin''. First, the stealth armor and its [[Guardian ECM]] are removed.  The head-mounted [[Target Acquisition Gear|TAG]] is swapped for a [[small laser]]. The [[SRM-2]]s of the ASN-99 are retained.  Each arm has new weapons, the left has a small vibroblade and right has a medium X-pulse laser.  Finally, each leg contains a small X-pulse laser. BV (2.0) = 1,019<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Unabridged (Inner Sphere)'', p.75</ref>
+
*; Assassin ''Servitor'' : A custom variant of the ASN-99 ''Assassin''. The [[stealth armor]] and [[Guardian ECM suite]] are removed, and the head-mounted [[Target Acquisition Gear|TAG]] is swapped for a [[small laser]]. Each arm has new weapons, with the left holding a small [[Vibroblade_#BattleMech|vibroblade]] and right mounting a [[medium X-Pulse laser]], and each leg contains a [[small X-Pulse laser]]. The [[SRM-2]]s of the ASN-99 are retained. BV (2.0) = 1,019<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Unabridged (Inner Sphere)'', p.75</ref>
  
 
===Apocryphal Variants===
 
===Apocryphal Variants===
 
{{ApocryphalContentStart}}
 
{{ApocryphalContentStart}}
 
These variants were introduced in various apocryphal sources, and thus far have not appeared in any canonical media.
 
These variants were introduced in various apocryphal sources, and thus far have not appeared in any canonical media.
 
 
''From [[MechWarrior Online]]:''
 
''From [[MechWarrior Online]]:''
*;ASN-26 : A 3050's tech version of the -30, the -26 also uses an Endo Steel chassis but mounts an XL engine, the extra weight saved allowing the 'Mech to carry an [[Ultra AC/5]] and a pair of Medium Pulse Lasers for offensive armament. Though clad in six and half tons of armor, a single ton of autocannon reloads and ten double heat sinks provide limited field endurance.<ref name=MWO>''MechWarrior Online - Assassin Sale Page''</ref>
+
*; ASN-26 : A 3050's tech version of the -30, the -26 also uses an [[endo steel]] chassis but mounts an [[XL engine]], the extra weight saved allowing the 'Mech to carry an [[UAC/5]] and a pair of [[medium pulse laser]]s for offensive armament. Field endurance is limited however, as six and half tons of armor provided basic protection, and a single ton of autocannon reloads are chewed through rapidly. The 10 [[double heat sink]]s struggle to manage heat strain.<ref name=MWO>''MechWarrior Online - Assassin Sale Page''</ref>
  
*;ASN-27 : A 3050 era take on -99, the -27 drops the TAG and sword to upgrade the Light PPC for a full size [[PPC]] thanks to the use of Endo Steel, retaining the Guardian ECM but replacing the Stealth armor with an equal volume of standard plating.<ref name=MWO/>
+
*; ASN-27 : A 3050 era take on -99, the -27 drops the [[Target Acquisition Gear|TAG]] and [[sword]] to upgrade the [[light PPC]] to a full size [[PPC]] thanks to the use of [[endo steel]], retaining the [[Guardian ECM suite]] but replacing the [[stealth armor]] with an equal volume of [[standard armor]].<ref name=MWO/>
  
*; ASN-DD ''DarkDeath'' : While all indications are that [[Dale Sandstrom]] piloted a standard ASN-21 variant, MWO's version of his ''DarkDeath'' is built around a 280 XL engine and an Endo Steel chassis and is armed with an [[Autocannon/2]] in the right arm, twin LRM-5s in right torso and a pair of medium lasers split between head and left torso. Retaining the ASN-21's seven jump jets, that variant's heat sinks are also upgraded to double strength version. Though carrying only a single ton of [[autocannon]] and [[LRM]] reloads limits it field endurance, ''DarkDeath'' mounts a Guardian ECM Suite to help ensure the fight is on its terms.<ref name=MWO/>
+
*; ASN-DD ''DarkDeath'' : While all indications are that [[Dale Sandstrom]] piloted a standard ASN-21 variant, MWO's version of his ''DarkDeath'' is built around a 280-rated [[XL engine]] on [[endo steel]] chassis, and is armed with an [[AC/2]] in the right arm, twin [[LRM-5]]s in right torso, and a pair of [[medium laser]]s split between head and left torso. Retaining the ASN-21's seven [[jump jet]]s, that variant's [[single heat sink]]s are also upgraded to [[double heat sink|double strength versions]]. Though carrying only a single ton of [[autocannon]] and [[LRM]] reloads limits it field endurance, ''DarkDeath'' mounts a [[Guardian ECM suite]] to help ensure the fight is on its terms.<ref name=MWO/>
  
 
''From [[MechWarrior_5:_Mercenaries#MechWarrior_5:_Heroes_of_the_Inner_Sphere_Expansion_Pack|''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Heroes of the Inner Sphere'' DLC]]:''
 
''From [[MechWarrior_5:_Mercenaries#MechWarrior_5:_Heroes_of_the_Inner_Sphere_Expansion_Pack|''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Heroes of the Inner Sphere'' DLC]]:''
*;ASN-27 : Introduced in [[3015]], the ''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries'' version of MWO's ASN-27 retains the TAG.<ref name=MW5HoIS>''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Heroes of the Inner Sphere''</ref>
+
*; ASN-27 : Introduced in [[3015]], the ''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries'' version of MWO's ASN-27 retains the [[Target Acquisition Gear|TAG]].<ref name=MW5HoIS>''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Heroes of the Inner Sphere''</ref>
  
 
''From [[MechWarrior_5:_Mercenaries#MechWarrior_5:_Call_to_Arms_Expansion_Pack|''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Call to Arms'' DLC]]:''
 
''From [[MechWarrior_5:_Mercenaries#MechWarrior_5:_Call_to_Arms_Expansion_Pack|''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Call to Arms'' DLC]]:''
*; ASN-25 : Introduced in [[3026]] to tap into the rise of interest in melee weapons, the ASN-25 retains the right arm medium laser but replaces the remaining weaponry with a right torso medium laser and left torso mounted Small Laser, the weight saved to mount a Medium [[Claw]] in the left arm.<ref name=MW5CtA>''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Call to Arms''</ref>
+
*; ASN-25 : Introduced in [[3026]] to tap into the rise of interest in melee weapons, the ASN-25 retains the right arm's [[medium laser]], but replaces the remaining weaponry with a right torso-mounted [[medium laser]] and left torso-mounted [[small laser]], the weight saved to mount a medium [[claw]] in the left arm.<ref name=MW5CtA>''MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Call to Arms''</ref>
 
 
 
{{ApocryphalContentEnd}}
 
{{ApocryphalContentEnd}}
  
Line 88: Line 86:
  
 
==Notes==
 
==Notes==
 
 
* Author [[Blaine Lee Pardoe]] stated in a [https://blainepardoe.wordpress.com/2018/08/16/out-of-the-archives-the-battlemechs-i-wrote-about-or-designed/ blog entry] that, according to his memory which he admitted could be wrong, the ''Assassin'' was among the BattleMechs for which he wrote the original background as initially published in TRO:3025, after being given only its name, image, and game stats to work with for the TRO entry.
 
* Author [[Blaine Lee Pardoe]] stated in a [https://blainepardoe.wordpress.com/2018/08/16/out-of-the-archives-the-battlemechs-i-wrote-about-or-designed/ blog entry] that, according to his memory which he admitted could be wrong, the ''Assassin'' was among the BattleMechs for which he wrote the original background as initially published in TRO:3025, after being given only its name, image, and game stats to work with for the TRO entry.
  

Revision as of 12:02, 3 September 2022

Assassin
Assassin
Production information
Manufacturer Maltex Corporation[1]

Hellespont 'Mech Works


Defiance Industries[2]


Production Year 2676[3]
Model ASN-21[1]
Class Medium
Cost 3,765,813 C-bills
Technical specifications
'Mech type Inner Sphere BattleMech
Mass 40 tons
Chassis Maltex 40[1]
Armor 100 AFVTA[1]
Engine VOX 280[1]
Communications System Garret T15 B[1]
Targeting Tracking System Garret 500S[1]
Heat Sinks 10 single heat sinks[1]
Speed 118[1] km/h
Jump Jets Lox lift Series 1[1]
Armament
BV (1.0) 596[4]
BV (2.0) 749[5]


Description

The Assassin is a BattleMech that began life because of corporate ambitions and successful lobbyists. Though there was no need for a new medium 'Mech in its arsenal, the Maltex Corporation lobbied the Star League to purchase the Assassin as a replacement for the lighter Wasp and Stinger. They were successful largely through over-hyped performance statistics, fuzzy budget approximations, and some greased palms, and even then only several hundred were constructed before production slowed to a crawl after two Assassin factories came under investigation for quality control violations. Still, the Assassin proved to be popular with garrison forces of the SLDF and the Marik Militia; with an impressive top speed and jumping distance of 210 meters combined with excellent coverage for its four and a half tons of armor and solid firepower, the Assassin was considered a superb reconnaissance and light 'Mech hunter in its own right.[6][7][1]

The Assassin was not flawless however, especially when Maltex cut corners during its initial production, and it has the dubious distinction of having one of the most cramped cockpits of any Inner Sphere 'Mech. Dozens of attempts by Maltex over hundreds of years to overhaul the cockpit cooling system to create more elbow-room ended in failure, not only limiting Assassin pilots' time in-cockpit to half of that of other 'Mechs, but causing many to develop a lifetime of back problems. The Assassin would first see combat in 2980, long after the fall of the Star League, when the Free Worlds League successfully fought off the Federated Suns for control of Rochelle during the Third Succession War. The Assassin fared better than other 'Mechs during the bloody battle and House Marik became an enthusiastic user of the design late into the war. Eventually the use of Assassins by all sides lessened due to a shortage of spare parts, with the Capellan Confederation simply running out of these 'Mechs by 3025, though its modular design and access systems allowed it to survive.[7][1]

By 3058, most Assassins had been phased out of service, with the remaining 'Mechs mostly family heirlooms passed down through MechWarrior families and with many modifications. Defiance Industries was licensed by Maltex to produce a variant, the ASN-30, for the Lyrans during the FedCom Civil War, but it was largely seen as a failure. The Assassin would see a resurgence in 3067 when Hellespont 'Mech Works acquired the design from Maltex, thanks in part to minor distractions facing Maltex such as charges of tax evasion and collusion with the Word of Blake, and began producing the ASN-23 for the Capellans, the Taurian Concordat, and the Magistracy of Canopus.[8]

Weapons and Equipment

The Assassin is popular for its long-range capabilities thanks to a Holly-5 LRM-5 launcher in the right side of its torso. Its primary short-range weapon is a Holly-2 SRM-2 launcher in the torso's left side, supported by a Martell medium laser in the right arm. With just two tons of missile ammunition, one ton of LRM and one ton of SRM ammunition, the 'Mech has limited endurance on extended operations without resupply and is vulnerable when left with only the laser to fight back. Assassins built before 2815 also suffered from a serious design flaw in the short-range missile rack's reloading mechanism, which experienced chronic jamming during high-heat situations and could only be repaired by disassembling the unit. Under severe corporate pressure Maltex finally fixed the problem in newer models and offered several years' funding for recall repairs, though some privately-owned Assassins might still mount the defective system.[7][1]

Variants

  • ASN-101 
    The -101 Assassin was an unofficial variant produced in limited numbers by the Federated Suns during the Succession Wars. Removing some of the 'Mech's seven jump jets and shaving off a half ton of armor, they were able to fit three Maxell 50 small lasers, one in each leg and the third in the head. The design was seen as a failure, especially since it sacrifices 60 meters of the 'Mech's immense jumping distance, and only three were purported to have been built and stationed with the Capellan March Militia, though some cite circumstantial evidence of more constructed in secret.[7][1] BV (1.0) = 586, BV (2.0) = 757[9]
  • ASN-23 
    The -23 variant of the Assassin is an upgrade of the original model using lostech; originally seen as a standardized field modification,[10] in 3067 new production began at Hellespont 'Mech Works. The SRM-2 has been removed to upgrade the medium laser to a medium pulse laser, typically the "readily available" Magna 400P,[10] and an Artemis IV fire control system has been added for the LRM-5 launcher. Within the CCAF, TDF, and MAF it is largely used as a cheap way to rebuild shattered forces and sees service mostly in green and reserve formations. The Capellans in particular use the -23 as a fire-support unit for pursuit and strike lances, though shortages of Artemis munitions means many are forced to use mine-delivery missiles.[8] BV (1.0) = 609[4], BV (2.0) = 740[11]
  • ASN-30 
    The -30 variant of the Assassin, produced under license by Defiance Industries, was a radical departure from the classic formula for the 'Mech. The chassis was redesigned to utilize endo steel construction and the engine upgraded to a light fusion engine. The saved weight was used to upgrade the medium laser to an ER medium laser, and the LRM-5 and SRM-2 are removed in favor of an LB-X AC/5. Additionally, the armor had been increased by two full tons and the single heat sinks upgraded to double strength versions. Used by the Lyran side of the FedCom Civil War, this design is considered a failure and few of them were ever produced.[8] BV (1.0) = 846[12], BV (2.0) = 925[13]
  • ASN-99 
    When Hellespont 'Mech Works first acquired the Assassin from the Maltex Corporation, the ASN-99 was the original testbed design. Incorporating more armor than any previous variant, thanks in large part to the inclusion of an XL engine, its long-range punch is provided by a light PPC, while it can rely upon two SRM-2s at close range. Target Acquisition Gear enables it to call down supporting fire should the Assassin find itself embroiled in a fight. This variant also mounts stealth armor and a sword. BV (1.0) = ??, BV (2.0) = 1,116[14]

Custom Variants

Apocryphal Variants

Apocryphal Content Starts

The information after this notice comes from apocryphal sources; the canonicity of such information is uncertain.
Please view the reference page for information regarding their canonicity.

These variants were introduced in various apocryphal sources, and thus far have not appeared in any canonical media. From MechWarrior Online:

  • ASN-26 
    A 3050's tech version of the -30, the -26 also uses an endo steel chassis but mounts an XL engine, the extra weight saved allowing the 'Mech to carry an UAC/5 and a pair of medium pulse lasers for offensive armament. Field endurance is limited however, as six and half tons of armor provided basic protection, and a single ton of autocannon reloads are chewed through rapidly. The 10 double heat sinks struggle to manage heat strain.[17]

From MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Heroes of the Inner Sphere DLC:

  • ASN-27 
    Introduced in 3015, the MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries version of MWO's ASN-27 retains the TAG.[18]

From MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Call to Arms DLC:

  • ASN-25 
    Introduced in 3026 to tap into the rise of interest in melee weapons, the ASN-25 retains the right arm's medium laser, but replaces the remaining weaponry with a right torso-mounted medium laser and left torso-mounted small laser, the weight saved to mount a medium claw in the left arm.[19]

Apocryphal Content Ends

Design Quirks

The Assassin has the following Design Quirks:[20]

Notable pilots

See: Category:Notable Assassin Pilots

Notes

  • Author Blaine Lee Pardoe stated in a blog entry that, according to his memory which he admitted could be wrong, the Assassin was among the BattleMechs for which he wrote the original background as initially published in TRO:3025, after being given only its name, image, and game stats to work with for the TRO entry.
  • In German products, the unit's proper name was translated to Attentäter. The model code was accordingly changed to ATN-21.
  • In French products, the unit's proper name was kept as Assassin, which has the same meaning in both languages.

Gallery

References

  1. 1.00 1.01 1.02 1.03 1.04 1.05 1.06 1.07 1.08 1.09 1.10 1.11 1.12 1.13 1.14 1.15 1.16 Technical Readout: 3039, p. 116-117, "ASN-21 Assassin"
  2. Objectives: Lyran Alliance, p.12
  3. MUL online entry for Assassin
  4. 4.0 4.1 Combat Operations, p. 121
  5. Record Sheets: 3039, p. 94
  6. Introductory Record Sheets, pp 6
  7. 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3 Technical Readout: 3025, p. 34-35, "Assassin Profile"
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p.34-35, "Assassin Profile"
  9. Record Sheets: 3039, p. 93
  10. 10.0 10.1 Technical Readout: 3050, Revised, p.82
  11. Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Inner Sphere), p. 72
  12. Record Sheets: Upgrades, p. 58
  13. Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Inner Sphere), p. 73
  14. Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade, Inner Sphere p. 74
  15. Record Sheets: Unique 'Mechs, p. 2, "Assassin Alice"
  16. Record Sheets: 3050 Unabridged (Inner Sphere), p.75
  17. 17.0 17.1 17.2 MechWarrior Online - Assassin Sale Page
  18. MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Heroes of the Inner Sphere
  19. MechWarrior 5: Mercenaries Call to Arms
  20. BattleMech Manual, p. 90 BattleMech Quirk Table - Assassin Entry.

Bibliography