Difference between revisions of "Mad Dog (Vulture)"
 
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{{Redirect|Vulture||Vulture (disambiguation)}}
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:''Vulture Mk II'' also redirects here; see ''[[Mad Dog (Vulture)#Vulture Mk II|Vulture Mk II]]'' section below.
 
{{InfoBoxBattleMech
 
{{InfoBoxBattleMech
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|image=Mad_Dog_3050.png
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|image=Mad Dog RGilClan v10.png
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|name=Mad Dog
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|name=''Mad Dog''
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|manufacturer=Various
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|manufacturer=Various<ref name=TRCIp46f>''Technical Readout: Clan Invasion'', pp. 46–47: "Vulture"</ref> <!-- reprinted from TRO:3050U -->
 
| production year=2963
 
| production year=2963
 
|year reference=<ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3473/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>
 
|year reference=<ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3473/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>
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|model=Prime
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|model=Prime<ref name=TRCIp46f />
 
|class=Heavy
 
|class=Heavy
 
|cost= 15,292,000 C-bills
 
|cost= 15,292,000 C-bills
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|mech type = OmniMech
 
|mech type = OmniMech
 
|mass=60
 
|mass=60
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|chassis=[[Chassis#Models|Eden Mk 60-OM]]
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|chassis=[[Eden Mk 60-OM (Vulture)|Eden Mk 60-OM]] <!-- <ref name=TRCIp46f /> -->
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|armor=Compound SJ6CW [[Ferro-Fibrous]]
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|armor= [[Compound SJ6CW Ferro-Fibrous]] <!-- <ref name=TRCIp46f /> -->
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|engine=300 Type I [[XL Engine|XL]]
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|engine=[[300 Type I XL]] <!-- <ref name=TRCIp46f /> -->
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|comsys=[[Build OSJ-41]]
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|comsys=[[Build OSJ-41]] <!-- <ref name=TRCIp46f /> -->
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|T&T=[[Cat's Eye MD6]]
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|T&T=[[Cat's Eye MD6]] <!-- <ref name=TRCIp46f /> -->
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|heat sinks=12 [[Double Heat Sinks]]
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|heat sinks=12 [[Double Heat Sink|double]] <!-- <ref name=TRCIp46f /> -->
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|speed=86.4
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|speed=86 <!-- <ref name=TRCIp46f /> -->
 
|armament=
 
|armament=
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Primary Configuration
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Primary Configuration <!-- <ref name=TRCIp46f /> -->
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*2x [[LRM-20]]s
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* 2x [[LRM-20]]
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*2x [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s
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* 2x [[Medium Pulse Laser]]
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*2x [[Large Pulse Laser]]s
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* 2x [[Large Pulse Laser]]
 
|BV (1.0) = 1,871<ref name=CO>''Combat Operations'', p. 109</ref>
 
|BV (1.0) = 1,871<ref name=CO>''Combat Operations'', p. 109</ref>
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|BV (2.0) = 2,351<ref name=TRO>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', pp. 130-131, "Vulture OmniMech Profile"</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 82</ref>
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|BV (2.0) = 2,351<ref name=TRCIp46f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 82</ref>
 
}}
 
}}
  
 
==Description==
 
==Description==
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The '''''Mad Dog''''' is a heavy Clan [[OmniMech]] used for long-range indirect fire support.  With hunched shoulders, a protruding head, and reverse-jointed legs, the ''Mad Dog'' resembles a vulture, so much so that it was codenamed '''''Vulture''''' and '''''Hagetaka''''' ("Vulture" in Japanese) by the [[Inner Sphere]] forces which first encountered it.  The name also fit the battlefield role of the ''Mad Dog''; the main role of the ''Mad Dog'' is to act as a support 'Mech, and it often holds a hill maintaining constant watch over the entire battlefield, like a vulture waiting for its prey. With its ample firepower and decent speed of 86.4 km/h, it makes a highly mobile firing platform, and as such has spread to near ubiquity among the forces deployed by the Clans, although the design is favored more by [[Clan Ghost Bear]] [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarrior]]s.  The ''Mad Dog'' carries eight and a half tons of [[Armor - FF - BattleMechs & Vehicles|Ferro-Fibrous]] armor for decent protection, although it will not be able to stand up to heavy fire.<ref name=TRO/><ref name=TRO3050>''Technical Readout: 3050'', pp. 28-29, "Vulture OmniMech Profile"</ref><ref name=TRO3050R>''Technical Readout: 3050 Revised'', pp. 26-27, "Vulture OmniMech Profile"</ref>
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The '''''Mad Dog''''' is a heavy Clan [[OmniMech]] used for long-range indirect fire support.  With hunched shoulders, a protruding head, and reverse-jointed legs, the ''Mad Dog'' resembles a vulture, so much so that it was [[Inner Sphere Designation for Clan BattleMechs|code-named]] '''''Vulture''''' and '''''Hagetaka''''' ("Vulture" in Japanese) by the [[Inner Sphere]] forces which first encountered it.  The name also fit the perceived battlefield role of the ''Mad Dog''; technical documents from the thirty-first century suggested the role of the ''Mad Dog'' was to act as a support 'Mech, and it was theorized to be intended to hold a hill and maintain constant watch over the entire battlefield, like a vulture waiting for its prey. The reality is that such behavior would be a violation of ''[[zellbrigen]]'' and that the ''Mad Dog''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s configurations are intended to take the fight to the enemy at all ranges.<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10'', p. 12</ref><ref name=TRO3050>''Technical Readout: 3050'', pp. 28–29: "Vulture OmniMech Profile"</ref>
  
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The ''Mad Dog'' was designed by [[Clan Smoke Jaguar]] as a second generation OmniMech based on the original heavy OmniMech ''[[Lupus]]'' of [[Clan Coyote]].<ref>''Field Manual: Warden Clans'', p. 41</ref> The ''Mad Dog'' also used some of the same moulds of the Clan Wolf ''[[Timber Wolf]]'' OmniMech. However, despite using some of the same moulds (which might be viewed as high praise), the ''Mad Dog'' was named as a slur to the ''Lupus'' and ''Timber Wolf'', and to Clans Wolf and Coyote. Because of its widespread production, most Clans maintain a large number of ''Mad Dog''s in their toumans.<ref name=TRO/><ref name=TRO3050/><ref name=TRO3050R/>
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With its ample firepower and decent speed of 86.4 km/h, it makes a highly mobile firing platform, and as such has spread to near ubiquity among the forces deployed by the Clans, although the design is favored more by [[Clan Ghost Bear]] [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarrior]]s.  The ''Mad Dog'' carries eight and a half tons of [[ferro-fibrous]] armor for decent protection, although it will not be able to stand up to heavy fire.<ref name=TRO3050Up130f>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', pp. 130–131: "Vulture OmniMech Profile"</ref><ref name=TRO3050>''Technical Readout: 3050'', pp. 28–29: "Vulture OmniMech Profile"</ref><ref name=TRO3050R>''Technical Readout: 3050 Revised'', pp. 26–27: "Vulture OmniMech Profile"</ref>
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 +
The ''Mad Dog'' was designed by [[Clan Smoke Jaguar]] as a second generation OmniMech based on the original heavy OmniMech ''[[Lupus]]'' of [[Clan Coyote]].<ref>''Field Manual: Warden Clans'', p. 41</ref> The ''Mad Dog'' also used some of the same molds of the Clan Wolf ''[[Timber Wolf]]'' OmniMech. However, despite using some of the same molds (which might be viewed as high praise), the ''Mad Dog'' was named as a slur to the ''Lupus'' and ''Timber Wolf'', and to Clans Wolf and Coyote. Because of its widespread production, most Clans maintain a large number of ''Mad Dog''s in their ''[[touman]]s''.<ref name=TRO3050Up130f/><ref name=TRO3050/><ref name=TRO3050R/>
  
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
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For its fire support purposes, the ''Mad Dog'' is armed with twin shoulder-mounted [[LRM-20]] missile racks, which allow the 'Mech to inflict heavy damage on any opponent it may target. The ''Mad Dog'' is also more than capable of going on the offensive, mounting dual [[Large Pulse Laser|large]] and [[Medium Pulse Laser|medium]]-sized pulse lasers, one on each arm. ''Mad Dog'' pilots have been known for showering missiles on opponents before swooping down with a finishing blow from the lasers, much like a vulture swooping down for carrion.<ref name=TRO/><ref name=TRO3050/><ref name=TRO3050R/>
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For its fire support purposes, the ''Mad Dog'' is armed with twin shoulder-mounted [[LRM-20]] missile racks, which allow the 'Mech to inflict heavy damage on any opponent it may target. The ''Mad Dog'' is also more than capable of going on the offensive, mounting dual [[Large Pulse Laser|large]] and [[Medium Pulse Laser|medium]]-sized pulse lasers, one of each on each arm. ''Mad Dog'' pilots have been known for showering missiles on opponents before swooping down with a finishing blow from the lasers, much like a vulture swooping down for carrion.<ref name=TRO3050Up130f/><ref name=TRO3050/><ref name=TRO3050R/>
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In the case that the ''Mad Dog'' must retreat or face down heavier opponents, it can adequately do such as well, as the pulse lasers it mounts are much more accurate than standard lasers, allowing it to move and fire at the same time. This allows it to stall opponents and slowly back into a more defensible position, although overheating may become an issue.<ref name=TRO3050Up130f/><ref name=TRO3050/><ref name=TRO3050R/>
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==Alternate Configurations==
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*; Alternate Configuration A : The ''Mad Dog'' A can bring devastating fire on targets at any range, mounting an [[Extended Range Particle Projector Cannon|ER PPC]] and an [[LB 5-X autocannon]], with which it can easily cripple enemies from long range. Should it get close enough, its six [[SRM-6]] racks ensure the demise of nearly any foe.<ref name=TRCIp46f /> BV (1.0) = 1,510;<ref name=CO/> BV (2.0) = 1,923<ref name=TRCIp46f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 83</ref>
  
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In the case that the ''Mad Dog'' must retreat or face down heavier opponents, it can adequately do such as well, as the pulse lasers it mounts are much more accurate than standard lasers, allowing it to move and fire at the same time. This allows it to stall opponents and slowly back into a more defensible position, although overheating may become an issue.<ref name=TRO/><ref name=TRO3050/><ref name=TRO3050R/>
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*; Alternate Configuration B : A more general-purpose configuration, the ''Mad Dog'' B mounts more laser weaponry, with two [[ER Large Laser]]s in the left arm, and three [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s in the other. For additional long-range firepower, the ''Mad Dog'' B mounts only one [[LRM-20]] having replaced the other with two [[Streak SRM-6]] launchers.<ref name=TRCIp46f /> BV (1.0) = 1,903;<ref name=CO/> BV (2.0) = 2,284<ref name=TRCIp46f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 84</ref>
  
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==Variants==
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*; Alternate Configuration C : The ''Mad Dog'' C greatly differs from other configurations, having replaced its entire weapon load with two massive [[Gauss rifle]]s for a powerful long-range punch.<ref name=TRCIp46f /> BV (1.0) = 1,707;<ref name=CO/> BV (2.0) = 1,892<ref name=TRCIp46f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 85</ref>
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*;Alt. Config. A : The ''Mad Dog'' A can bring devastating fire on targets at any range, mounting an [[Extended Range Particle Projector Cannon|ER PPC]] and an [[LB 5-X AC]], with which it can easily cripple enemies from long range. Should it get close enough, its six [[SRM-6]] racks ensure the demise of nearly any foe. BV (1.0) = 1,510<ref name=CO/>, BV (2.0) = 1,923<ref name=TRO/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 83</ref>
 
  
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*;Alt. Config. B : A more general purpose configuration, the ''Mad Dog'' B mounts more laser weaponry, with two [[ER Large Laser]]s in the left arm, and three [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s in the other. For additional long-range firepower, the ''Mad Dog B'' mounts only one [[LRM-20]] having replaced the other with two [[Streak SRM-6]] launchers. BV (1.0) = 1,903<ref name=CO/>, BV (2.0) = 2,284<ref name=TRO/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 84</ref>  
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*; Alternate Configuration D : This variant uses a pair of [[ATM 12]]s that are powerful at all ranges. It also uses paired [[ER Medium Laser]]s, [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s, and [[ER Small Laser]]s. An extra heat sink helps to keep heat levels under some control.<ref name=TRCIp46f /> BV (1.0) = 1,966;<ref name=CO/><ref>''Record Sheets: Upgrades'', p. 105</ref> BV (2.0) = 2,447<ref name=TRCIp46f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 86</ref>
  
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*;Alt. Config. C : The ''Mad Dog'' C greatly differs from the other configurations, having replaced its entire weapon load with two massive [[Gauss Rifle]]s for a powerful long-range punch. BV (1.0) = 1,707<ref name=CO/>, BV (2.0) = 1,892<ref name=TRO/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 85</ref>
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*; Alternate Configuration DD : The Double D is built for long ranged combat on the left side and short range combat on the right. The right arm carries a trio of [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s. A [[Streak SRM-6]] and one ton of ammo are carried in the right torso. The left torso carries an [[Artemis IV]] enhanced [[LRM-20]] with a meager one ton of ammunition. A pair of [[LB 2-X AC]]s and their shared ton of ammo are mounted in the left arm. (Note: this variant is a canonization of the D variant featured in the German Solaris VII box set. See Apocryphal section below) BV (2.0) = 1,970<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10'', p. 12</ref>
  
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*;Alt. Config. D : This variant uses a pair of [[ATM 12]]s that are powerful at all ranges. It also uses paired [[ER Medium Laser]]s, [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s, and [[ER Small Laser]]s. An extra heat sink helps to keep heat levels under some control. BV (1.0) = 1,966<ref name=CO/><ref>''Record Sheets: Upgrades'', p. 105</ref>, BV (2.0) = 2,447<ref name=TRO/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 86</ref>
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*; Alternate Configuration E : The E configuration makes use of a [[Hyper-Assault Gauss Rifle 30]] in each arm, though each one only has a single ton of ammunition to draw upon.<ref name=TRCIp46f /> BV (2.0) = 2,031<ref name=TRCIp46f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 87</ref>
  
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*;Alt. Config. E : The E configuration makes use of a [[Hyper-Assault Gauss Rifle 30]] in each arm, though each one only has a single ton of ammunition to draw upon. BV (2.0) = 2,031<ref name=TRO/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 87</ref>
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*; Alternate Configuration F : The ''Mad Dog'' F has a pair of [[HAG 20]]s. Though they don't have the sheer power of the larger guns, the four tons of ammunition provide substantially better staying power than the E variant has. To back the HAGs up, the F mounts four [[ER Medium Laser]]s.<ref name=TRCIp46f /> BV (2.0) = 2,300<ref name=TRCIp46f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 88</ref>
  
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*;Alt. Config. F : The ''Mad Dog'' F has a pair of [[HAG 20]]s. Though they don't have the sheer power of the larger guns, the four tons of ammunition provide substantially better staying power than the E variant has. To back the Gauss Rifles up, the F mounts four [[ER Medium Laser]]s. BV (2.0) = 2,300<ref name=TRO/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 88</ref>
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*; Alternate Configuration G : This variant carries a pair of Streak SRM-6s in the right torso and a [[Streak LRM-15]] in the left. The ''Mad Dog'' G carries a single ER PPC in the left arm, while the right mounts a trio of [[ER Medium Pulse Laser]]s. BV (2.0) = 2,503<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 141</ref>
  
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*;Alt. Config. G : This variant carries a pair of Streak SRM-6s in the right torso and a [[Streak LRM-15]] in the left. The ''Mad Dog'' G carries a single ER PPC in the left arm, while the right mounts a trio of [[ER Medium Pulse Laser]]s. BV (2.0) = 2,503<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 141</ref>
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*; Alternate Configuration H : Built with new Heavy Laser technology, the ''Mad Dog'' H downgrades the [[LRM-20]] launchers to [[LRM-15]]s, compensating with [[Artemis IV]] capability, so it can mount its arsenal of a [[Heavy Large Laser]] and three [[Heavy Medium Laser]]s, making it much more capable at close range; eight extra heat sinks handle some of the extra burden.<ref name=TRCIp46f /> BV (1.0) = 1,735;<ref name=CO/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3060'', p. 168</ref> BV (2.0) = 2,097<ref name=TRCIp46f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 89</ref>
  
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*;Alt. Config. H : Built with new Heavy Laser technology, the ''Mad Dog'' H downgrades the [[LRM-20]] launchers to [[LRM-15]]s, so it can mount it's arsenal of a [[Heavy Large Laser]] and three [[Heavy Medium Laser]]s, making it much more capable at close range. BV (1.0) = 1,735<ref name=CO/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3060'', p. 168</ref>, BV (2.0) = 2,097<ref name=TRO/><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 89</ref>
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*; Alternate Configuration I : With its capacitor enhanced left arm [[ER PPC]], the ''Vulture'' I can create giant holes in its foes at long range. Following that up with its twin Clan-built [[Rotary AC/2]]s the I is able to damage internal components with ease. Two tons of ammo feed the autocannons. Three additional heat sinks are used to keep the design cool. BV (2.0) = 2,042<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10'', p. 12</ref>
  
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*;Alt. Config. U : An underwater configuration, this version uses [[BattleMech HarJel System]] to prevent hull breaches. It's equipped with five [[UMU]]s to maintain a high cruising speed underwater. Its weaponry consists of twin [[LRT-15]]s with [[Artemis IV]] guidance and each arm carries a Medium Pulse Laser and ER Medium Laser. BV (2.0) = 2,488<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Old is the New New'', p. 141</ref>
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*; Alternate Configuration S : An [[ER PPC]] is carried in each arm. A [[Medium Pulse Laser]] is installed in each torso; two double heat sinks are installed in the right torso and left torso. The left torso has an [[Active Probe]]. Five jump jets are scattered across the rear of each torso to provide a 150 meter jump capability. BV (2.0) = 2,676<ref>''Battle of Tukayyid'', p. 152</ref>
  
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*;Vulture Mk. II : Produced by [[Bergan Industries]] for [[Clan Ghost Bear]], the Vulture Mk. II introduced by the time of the [[FedCom Civil War]] is almost functionally identical to the original, but has a slightly different appearance in terms of armor, structure, engine mounting and other cosmetic areas due to being produced from factories using Spheroid tooling. One such change of note was moving the Medium Pulse Lasers to a torso-mounted chin turret.<ref>[http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php/topic,32373.msg753910.html#msg753910 Ask The Developer ruling, 21-Aug-2013]</ref>
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*; Alternate Configuration T : The T sacrifices the Prime’s accuracy for improved long range damage capabilities. Gone are the pulse lasers and in their place is an [[ER Large Laser]] and an [[ER Medium Laser]] in each arm. The Prime’s [[LRM-20]]s are still in place but now feature [[Artemis V]]. Each launcher has a two-ton magazine. An extra double heat sink is mounted in the CT. BV (2.0) = 2,555<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10'', p. 12</ref>
  
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===Apocryphal Configurations===
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*; Alternate Configuration U : An underwater configuration, this version uses [[BattleMech HarJel System]] to prevent hull breaches. It's equipped with five [[UMU]]s to maintain a high cruising speed underwater. Its weaponry consists of twin [[LRT-15]]s with [[Artemis IV]] guidance and each arm carries a Medium Pulse Laser and ER Medium Laser. BV (2.0) = 2,488<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Old is the New New'', p. 141</ref>
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*; Alternate Configuration V : An unusual design, the V is used for mobile artillery. An [[Arrow IV]] launcher is jammed into the right torso with some of the weapon spilling out into the right arm as well. Two tons of ammo Arrow ammo are carried in the left torso. Unlike some designs, like the ''Naga'', the ''Vulture'' V is more than capable of self-defense, and isn’t nearly worthless when out of artillery ammo. An [[LRM-20]] is carried in the left torso and is provided with its own two tons of ammo. Additionally, each arm carries both a [[Medium Pulse Laser]] and an [[ER Medium Laser]]. BV (2.0) = 2,182<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10'', p. 12</ref>
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 +
*; Vulture Mk. II : Produced by [[Bergan Industries]] for [[Clan Ghost Bear]], the Vulture Mk. II introduced by the time of the [[FedCom Civil War]] is almost functionally identical to the original, but has a slightly different appearance in terms of armor, structure, engine mounting and other cosmetic areas due to being produced from factories using Spheroid tooling. One such change of note was moving the Medium Pulse Lasers to a torso-mounted chin turret.<ref>[http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php/topic,32373.msg753910.html#msg753910 Ask The Developer ruling, 21-Aug-2013]</ref> A chin turret was featured in the Vulture's (apocryphal) depiction in [[MechWarrior 4]].
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 +
===Apocryphal Configurations===
 
{{ApocryphalContentStart}}
 
{{ApocryphalContentStart}}
 
''From [[MechWarrior Online]]:''
 
''From [[MechWarrior Online]]:''
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*;MDD-BA ''Bandit'' : [[PGI]]'s first [[Hero 'Mech]] config, the ''Bandit'' is themed as being piloted by [[Russou Howell]] and is armed with a mammoth [[Ultra Autocannon/20]] in each side torso. With only twin ER Small Lasers in each arm as supporting weapons, its pilot must make every shot of its combined total of two tons of reloads count.<ref name=MWO-C2>''MechWarrior Online'' Clan Wave Two Hero Sale Page</ref>
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*; MDD-BA ''Bandit'' : [[PGI]]'s first [[Hero 'Mech]] configuration, the ''Bandit'' is themed as being piloted by [[Russou Howell]] and is armed with a mammoth [[Ultra Autocannon/20]] in each side torso. With only twin ER Small Lasers in each arm as supporting weapons, its pilot must make every shot of its combined total of two tons of reloads count.<ref name=MWO-C2>''MechWarrior Online'' Clan Wave Two Hero Sale Page</ref>
  
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*;MDD-RV ''"Revenant"'' : Themed as the battered ''Mad Dog'' used by ex-Smoke Jaguar [[Garrett]] on [[Solaris VII]], the second MWO Hero 'Mech is configured as a long ranged specialist mounting sixty Long Range Missile tubes - twin LRM-20s and twin [[LRM-10]]s split between its side torsos - supported by four Medium Pulse Lasers, one in each arm and two in a ''Mad Dog Mk II'' style center torso mounted turret. Four tons of LRM ammunition is more than enough for the average Solaris duel or Clan Trial. <ref name=MWO-S7>''MechWarrior Online'' Solaris-7 Sale Page</ref>
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*; MDD-RV ''"Revenant"'' : Themed as the battered ''Mad Dog'' used by ex–Smoke Jaguar [[Garrett (Blackstar Stables)|Garrett]] on [[Solaris VII]], the second MWO Hero 'Mech is configured as a long-range specialist mounting sixty Long Range Missile tubes - twin LRM-20s and twin [[LRM-10]]s split between its side torsos - supported by four Medium Pulse Lasers, one in each arm and two in a ''Mad Dog Mk II'' style center torso mounted turret. Four tons of LRM ammunition is more than enough for the average Solaris duel or Clan Trial.<ref name=MWO-S7>''MechWarrior Online'' Solaris-7 Sale Page</ref>
  
 
''From [[Solaris VII: The Game World#Arena-Planet Solaris VII|Solaris VII Boxed Set - German Edition]]:''
 
''From [[Solaris VII: The Game World#Arena-Planet Solaris VII|Solaris VII Boxed Set - German Edition]]:''
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*;Vulture ''D'' : A different loadout from the canonical "D" version, this one sports 3 medium pulse lasers, 2 LB 2-X autocannons, a LRM-20 and a Streak SRM-6. BV (1.0) = ??, BV (2.0) = ??<ref name=GermanSolaris>''Arena-Planet Solaris VII'', "German language edition of the boxed set Record Sheets Booklet"</ref>
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*; ''Vulture'' D : A different loadout from the canonical "D" version, this one sports 3 medium pulse lasers, 2 LB 2-X autocannons, an LRM-20 and a Streak SRM-6. BV (2.0) = ??<ref name=GermanSolaris>''Arena-Planet Solaris VII'': "German-language edition of the boxed set Record Sheets Booklet"</ref>
 
{{ApocryphalContentEnd}}
 
{{ApocryphalContentEnd}}
  
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==Related BattleMechs==
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==Design Quirks==
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The ''Vulture'' has the following [[Design Quirks|Design Quirk]]:<ref>''BattleMech Manual'', p. 95: BattleMech Quirk Table - Vulture Entry</ref>
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* [[Improved Targeting (Medium)]]
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==Vulture Mk II==
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While the later ''[[Mad Dog Mk III (Vulture Mk III)|Vulture Mk III]]'' and ''[[Mad Dog Mk IV (Vulture Mk IV)|Vulture Mk IV]]'' evolutions of the ''Mad Dog'' design became rather prominent, the '''''Vulture Mk II''''' is hardly ever mentioned. In a [[Line Developer]] clarification/ruling of 21 August 2013<ref>In [http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php/topic,32373.msg753910.html#msg753910 this] thread on the official [[BattleTech Forum]]</ref> (and thus established as fully [[canonical]]), [[Herb Beas]] made a connection between the following quote from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade]]'' (p. 130: "Deployment") and the ''Vulture Mk II'':
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{{Quote|Indeed, since their move to the Inner Sphere, [[Clan Ghost Bear]]'s [[Bergan Industries]] factory line is building more and more Clan designs, including a homegrown ''Vulture''. Minor variances in structure, armor, and engine design—legacy of Bergan's Spheroid factory tooling—have slightly altered the appearance of these ''Vulture''s, but these new machines are functionally indistinguishable from their Homeworld forebears.
  
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*''[[Archer]]'' - Although not strictly descended from this 'Mech, the ''Vulture'' shares design lineage with it, most visibly in the side torso mounted missile racks.
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The bottom line: The Mk. II is functionally identical to the original; it merely differs cosmetically.|Herbert A. Beas, Line Developer - 21 August 2013}}
  
−
*''[[Vulture Mk III]]'' - Originally created to bolster the ''touman'' of Clan Ghost Bear, and shared with [[Clan Snow Raven]], this design adds more protection while also increasing the missile payload considerably. A fair complement of backup weapons allow the ''Vulture Mk III'' to defend itself at closer ranges.
+
Although credited as a Ghost Bear redesign, the ''Vulture Mk II'' owned by [[Latonya Lyons]] is stated to be of [[Clan Smoke Jaguar]] manufacture in her dossier.<ref name=DADossiers238>''MechWarrior: Dark Age - Dossiers and Pilot Cards'', p. 238: "Latonya Lyons"</ref> To reconcile this with the Line Developer ruling, it can be assumed the 'Mech was originally built by the Jaguars, but refurbished and thereby turned into a Mk II version by the Ghost Bear factory at a later point.
  
−
*''[[Vulture_Mk_IV|Vulture Mk IV]]'' - Manufactured by Clan [[Clan Sea Fox|Sea Fox]] and sold to every nation and Clan, the ''Vulture Mk IV'' OmniMech is largely unchanged from the original ''Vulture'' in basic design terms.
+
The [[MechWarrior IV: Vengeance|MechWarrior 4]] series depicted the Medium Pulse Lasers as mounted in a chin rack, the results are the moving of the Medium Pulse Lasers into the Center Torso. This model is called the ''Mad Dog Mk II (Vulture Mk II)'' by the online BattleTech Community, but it remains uncertain if this is among the cosmetic changes mentioned above. (Technically, changing the location of the lasers from one torso section to another arguably goes beyond being functionally indistinguishable.)
  
−
*''[[Avatar (OmniMech)|Avatar]]'' - Battlefield salvage left after the [[Battle of Luthien (Clan Invasion)|Battle of Luthien]] allowed [[Luthien Armor Works]] engineers to reverse-engineer their own OmniMech, the ''Avatar''.  The torso of the ''Avatar'' was widened to allow the incorporation of a bulkier, Inner Sphere [[XL Engine]].<ref>''Technical Readout: 3058'', p. 92</ref>
+
==Notable Pilots==
 +
:''See [[:Category:Notable Mad Dog (Vulture) Pilots]]''
  
−
*''[[Lupus]]'' - [[Clan Smoke Jaguar]] based their second generation ''Mad Dog'' on the first generation ''Lupus'' introduced by [[Clan Coyote]].<ref>''Era Digest: Golden Century'', p. 23</ref>
+
==Related BattleMechs==
 +
* ''[[Lupus]]'' - [[Clan Smoke Jaguar]] based their second generation ''Mad Dog'' on the first generation ''Lupus'' introduced by [[Clan Coyote]].<ref>''Era Digest: Golden Century'', p. 23</ref>
  
−
*''[[Timber Wolf]]'' - The Mad Dog shares similiar parts to the venerable Omnimech due to the fact it was made from the same mould of the Timber Wolf. But the name of the mech itself was use to insult the ''Timber Wolf'' and ''Lupus'' designs that came before it.
+
* ''[[Mad Dog Mk III (Vulture Mk III)|Vulture Mk III]]'' - Originally created to bolster [[Clan Ghost Bear Touman|the ''touman'' of Clan Ghost Bear]], and shared with [[Clan Snow Raven]], this design adds more protection while also increasing the missile payload considerably. A fair complement of backup weapons allows the ''Vulture Mk III'' to defend itself at closer ranges.
  
−
==Notable pilots==
+
* ''[[Mad Dog Mk IV (Vulture Mk IV)|Vulture Mk IV]]'' - Manufactured by Clan [[Clan Sea Fox|Sea Fox]] and sold to every nation and Clan, the ''Vulture Mk IV'' OmniMech is largely unchanged from the original ''Vulture'' in basic design terms.
−
* Star Commander [[Megasa]], Jade Falcon officer of the Bloodline Pryde. He fighted in the competition for a Bloodname Pryde, as the last opponent of the later [[Aidan Pryde]]. Megasa has sworn to kill Aidan, and in his final duel he managed to defeat it, but Aidan kill Megasa from a lucky shot to his cockpit.
 
  
−
==Notes==
+
* ''[[Bushwacker]]'' - Recovered schematics of the Vulture allowed TharHes engineers to overcome many issues with the ''Bushwacker''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s design, which would have otherwise precluded the 'Mech from active service.
−
*In the [[MechWarrior 2: 31st Century Combat|MechWarrior 2]] series, the missiles suffered from a glitch that caused them to ram into the cockpit shortly after launch.
 
  
−
*The [[MechWarrior IV: Vengeance|MechWarrior 4]] series actually showed the Medium Pulse Lasers in a chin rack, the results are the moving of the Medium Pulse Lasers into the Center Torso, this model is called the '''Mad Dog Mk II (Vulture Mk II)''' by the online BattleTech Community.
+
* ''[[Avatar (OmniMech)|Avatar]]'' - Battlefield salvage left after the [[Battle of Luthien (3052)|Battle of Luthien]] allowed [[Luthien Armor Works]] engineers to reverse engineer their own OmniMech, the ''Avatar''.  The torso of the ''Avatar'' was widened to allow the incorporation of a bulkier, Inner Sphere [[XL engine]].<ref>''Technical Readout: 3058'', p. 92</ref>
  
−
* The canon status of the Mad Dog Mk II (Vulture Mk II) was confirmed by the Lead Developer in a ruling on the official forum on 21 Aug 2013:
+
* ''[[Timber Wolf]]'' - The ''Mad Dog'' shares similar parts to the venerable OmniMech due to the fact it was made from the same mold as the ''Timber Wolf''. But the name of the 'Mech itself was used to insult the ''Timber Wolf'' and ''Lupus'' designs that came before it.{{cn}}
−
:{{Quote|...The bottom line: The Mk. II is functionally identical to the original; it merely differs cosmetically.|[http://bg.battletech.com/forums/index.php/topic,32373.msg753910.html#msg753910 Herbert Beas, Line Developer, 21-Aug-2013]}}
 
  
−
* Although credited as a Ghost Bear redesign the Vulture Mk.II owned by Latonya Lyons is stated to be of Smoke Jaguar manufacture. <ref> ''MWDA Stormhammer's dossier of Latonya Lyons'' </ref>
+
==Notes==
 +
* In German products, the unit's Clan name was translated to '''''Bluthund''''', which literally means ''Bloodhound''. The unit's Inner Sphere name was translated to '''''Geier'''''.
  
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
 
<gallery>
 
<gallery>
−
File:Mad_Dog.jpg|''Mad Dog'' (''Vulture'') Prime
+
Mad Dog 3050.png|Original ''Mad Dog'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050|TRO:3050]]''
−
File:Vulture Prime (Mad Dog) CCG Limited.jpg|''Mad Dog'' Prime
+
Vulture TBTC.jpg|''Mad Dog'' from ''[[The BattleTech Compendium|BT:Compendium]]''
−
File:Vulture A (Mad Dog) CCG Limited.jpg|''Mad Dog'' A
+
Vulture BTCTRoW.jpg|''Mad Dog'' from ''[[BattleTech Compendium: The Rules of Warfare|BTC:TRoW]]''
−
File:Vulture C (Mad Dog) CCG Limited.jpg|''Mad Dog'' C
+
Mad_Dog.jpg|''Mad Dog'' Prime from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade|TRO:3050 Upgrade]]''
−
Image:MWDA Mad Dog-Vulture.jpg|Mech Warrior: Dark Age's version of the ''Mad Dog'' (''Vulture'')
+
Mad Dog RGilClan v10.png|''Mad Dog'' from ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10|RG:ilClan v10]]''
−
Image:Honor_duel.gif|The twin Gauss configuration C of the ''Mad Dog'' in battle.
+
Honor_duel.gif|''Mad Dog'' C in battle from ''[[Combat Operations]]''
−
Image:MW4-M Vulture.png|[[MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries]] version of the ''Mad Dog''
+
Vultures vs Infantry HBHK.png|A pair of ''Mad Dogs'' charge through a platoon of infantry
−
Image:Mad Dog - interior.jpg|Interior of a ''Mad Dog''
+
Vulture SolarisVII.jpg|A ''Mad Dog'' on [[Solaris VII]]
−
Image:MWO Mad Dog.jpg|[[MechWarrior Online]] art of the ''Mad Dog''
+
Mad Dog - interior.jpg|Interior of ''Mad Dog'' from ''unknown'' source
 +
Vulture Prime (Mad Dog).jpg|''Mad Dog'' Prime from ''[[BattleTech Trading Card Game|CCG]]''
 +
Vulture_A_(Mad_Dog).jpg|''Mad Dog'' A from ''CCG''
 +
Vulture C (Mad Dog).jpg|''Mad Dog'' C from ''CCG''
 +
MWDA Mad Dog-Vulture.jpg|''Mad Dog'' from ''[[MechWarrior: Dark Age Collectable Miniatures Game|MWDA]]''
 +
MW4-M Vulture.png|Model of ''Mad Dog'' from ''[[MechWarrior 4: Mercenaries|MW4: Mercenaries]]''
 +
MWO Mad Dog.jpg|Model of ''Mad Dog'' from ''[[MechWarrior Online|MWO]]''
 +
File:Clan Heavy Striker Star - Mad Dog.jpg|''Mad Dog'' miniature from ''[[BattleTech: Clan Heavy Striker Star]]''
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
  
Line 113: Line 140:
  
 
==Bibliography==
 
==Bibliography==
−
*''[[Combat Operations]]''
+
<div class="desktop-3-col">
−
*''[[Era Digest: Golden Century]]''
+
* ''[[BattleTech: Battle of Tukayyid]]''
−
*''[[Field Manual: Warden Clans]]''
+
* ''[[Combat Operations]]''
−
*[https://mwomercs.com/clan-heroes-two ''MechWarrior Online'' Clan Wave Two Hero Sale Page]
+
* ''[[Era Digest: Golden Century]]''
−
*[https://mwomercs.com/solaris-7 ''MechWarrior Online'' Solaris 7 Hero 'Mech Sale Page]
+
* ''[[Field Manual: Warden Clans]]''
−
*''[[Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)]]''
+
* ''[[MechWarrior: Dark Age - Dossiers and Pilot Cards]]''
−
*''[[Record Sheets: 3060]]''
+
* [https://mwomercs.com/clan-heroes-two ''MechWarrior Online'' Clan Wave Two Hero Sale Page]
−
*''[[Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Old is the New New]]''
+
* [https://mwomercs.com/solaris-7 ''MechWarrior Online'' Solaris 7 Hero 'Mech Sale Page]
−
*''[[Record Sheets: Upgrades]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League)]]''
−
*''[[Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3060]]''
−
*''[[Solaris VII: The Game World]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Old is the New New]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: Upgrades]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Revised]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade]]''
+
* ''[[Solaris VII: The Game World]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 3058]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]''
−
*''[http://cf.sarna.net/docs/mwda_dossiers/falcons_prey_26.pdf MWDA Republic of the Sphere's dossier of Tammi Miller]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Revised]]''
−
*''[http://cf.sarna.net/docs/mwda_dossiers/falcons_prey_6.pdf MWDA Stormhammer's dossier of Latonya Lyons]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade]]''
−
*''[http://cf.sarna.net/docs/mwda_dossiers/fire_for_effect_43.pdf MWDA Northwind Highlanders' dossier of Naomi Katina]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3058]]''
−
*''[http://cf.sarna.net/docs/mwda_dossiers/fire_for_effect_9.pdf MWDA Swordsworn's dossier of Alice Vander]''
+
</div>
−
 
 
  
 +
[[Category:'Mechs]]
 
[[Category:BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:OmniMechs]]
 
[[Category:OmniMechs]]
 
[[Category:Heavy BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Heavy BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:60 ton BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:60 ton BattleMechs]]
−
[[Category:Clan General BattleMechs]]
+
 
 
[[Category:Clan Smoke Jaguar BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Clan Smoke Jaguar BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Clan OmniMechs]]
 
[[Category:Clan OmniMechs]]
 +
[[Category:German renamed units]]

Latest revision as of 17:39, 11 March 2024

"Vulture" redirects here. For other uses, see Vulture (disambiguation).
Vulture Mk II also redirects here; see Vulture Mk II section below.
Mad Dog (Vulture)
Mad Dog
Production information
Manufacturer Various[1]
Production Year 2963[2]
Model Prime[1]
Class Heavy
Cost 15,292,000 C-bills
Technical specifications
'Mech type Clan OmniMech
Mass 60 tons
Chassis Eden Mk 60-OM
Armor Compound SJ6CW Ferro-Fibrous
Engine 300 Type I XL
Communications System Build OSJ-41
Targeting Tracking System Cat's Eye MD6
Heat Sinks 12 double
Speed 86 km/h
Armament

Primary Configuration

BV (1.0) 1,871[3]
BV (2.0) 2,351[1][4]


Description[edit]

The Mad Dog is a heavy Clan OmniMech used for long-range indirect fire support. With hunched shoulders, a protruding head, and reverse-jointed legs, the Mad Dog resembles a vulture, so much so that it was code-named Vulture and Hagetaka ("Vulture" in Japanese) by the Inner Sphere forces which first encountered it. The name also fit the perceived battlefield role of the Mad Dog; technical documents from the thirty-first century suggested the role of the Mad Dog was to act as a support 'Mech, and it was theorized to be intended to hold a hill and maintain constant watch over the entire battlefield, like a vulture waiting for its prey. The reality is that such behavior would be a violation of zellbrigen and that the Mad Dog's configurations are intended to take the fight to the enemy at all ranges.[5][6]

With its ample firepower and decent speed of 86.4 km/h, it makes a highly mobile firing platform, and as such has spread to near ubiquity among the forces deployed by the Clans, although the design is favored more by Clan Ghost Bear MechWarriors. The Mad Dog carries eight and a half tons of ferro-fibrous armor for decent protection, although it will not be able to stand up to heavy fire.[7][6][8]

The Mad Dog was designed by Clan Smoke Jaguar as a second generation OmniMech based on the original heavy OmniMech Lupus of Clan Coyote.[9] The Mad Dog also used some of the same molds of the Clan Wolf Timber Wolf OmniMech. However, despite using some of the same molds (which might be viewed as high praise), the Mad Dog was named as a slur to the Lupus and Timber Wolf, and to Clans Wolf and Coyote. Because of its widespread production, most Clans maintain a large number of Mad Dogs in their toumans.[7][6][8]

Weapons and Equipment[edit]

For its fire support purposes, the Mad Dog is armed with twin shoulder-mounted LRM-20 missile racks, which allow the 'Mech to inflict heavy damage on any opponent it may target. The Mad Dog is also more than capable of going on the offensive, mounting dual large and medium-sized pulse lasers, one of each on each arm. Mad Dog pilots have been known for showering missiles on opponents before swooping down with a finishing blow from the lasers, much like a vulture swooping down for carrion.[7][6][8]

In the case that the Mad Dog must retreat or face down heavier opponents, it can adequately do such as well, as the pulse lasers it mounts are much more accurate than standard lasers, allowing it to move and fire at the same time. This allows it to stall opponents and slowly back into a more defensible position, although overheating may become an issue.[7][6][8]

Alternate Configurations[edit]

  • Alternate Configuration A 
    The Mad Dog A can bring devastating fire on targets at any range, mounting an ER PPC and an LB 5-X autocannon, with which it can easily cripple enemies from long range. Should it get close enough, its six SRM-6 racks ensure the demise of nearly any foe.[1] BV (1.0) = 1,510;[3] BV (2.0) = 1,923[1][10]
  • Alternate Configuration B 
    A more general-purpose configuration, the Mad Dog B mounts more laser weaponry, with two ER Large Lasers in the left arm, and three Medium Pulse Lasers in the other. For additional long-range firepower, the Mad Dog B mounts only one LRM-20 having replaced the other with two Streak SRM-6 launchers.[1] BV (1.0) = 1,903;[3] BV (2.0) = 2,284[1][11]
  • Alternate Configuration C 
    The Mad Dog C greatly differs from other configurations, having replaced its entire weapon load with two massive Gauss rifles for a powerful long-range punch.[1] BV (1.0) = 1,707;[3] BV (2.0) = 1,892[1][12]
  • Alternate Configuration DD 
    The Double D is built for long ranged combat on the left side and short range combat on the right. The right arm carries a trio of Medium Pulse Lasers. A Streak SRM-6 and one ton of ammo are carried in the right torso. The left torso carries an Artemis IV enhanced LRM-20 with a meager one ton of ammunition. A pair of LB 2-X ACs and their shared ton of ammo are mounted in the left arm. (Note: this variant is a canonization of the D variant featured in the German Solaris VII box set. See Apocryphal section below) BV (2.0) = 1,970[15]
  • Alternate Configuration E 
    The E configuration makes use of a Hyper-Assault Gauss Rifle 30 in each arm, though each one only has a single ton of ammunition to draw upon.[1] BV (2.0) = 2,031[1][16]
  • Alternate Configuration F 
    The Mad Dog F has a pair of HAG 20s. Though they don't have the sheer power of the larger guns, the four tons of ammunition provide substantially better staying power than the E variant has. To back the HAGs up, the F mounts four ER Medium Lasers.[1] BV (2.0) = 2,300[1][17]
  • Alternate Configuration G 
    This variant carries a pair of Streak SRM-6s in the right torso and a Streak LRM-15 in the left. The Mad Dog G carries a single ER PPC in the left arm, while the right mounts a trio of ER Medium Pulse Lasers. BV (2.0) = 2,503[18]
  • Alternate Configuration H 
    Built with new Heavy Laser technology, the Mad Dog H downgrades the LRM-20 launchers to LRM-15s, compensating with Artemis IV capability, so it can mount its arsenal of a Heavy Large Laser and three Heavy Medium Lasers, making it much more capable at close range; eight extra heat sinks handle some of the extra burden.[1] BV (1.0) = 1,735;[3][19] BV (2.0) = 2,097[1][20]
  • Alternate Configuration I 
    With its capacitor enhanced left arm ER PPC, the Vulture I can create giant holes in its foes at long range. Following that up with its twin Clan-built Rotary AC/2s the I is able to damage internal components with ease. Two tons of ammo feed the autocannons. Three additional heat sinks are used to keep the design cool. BV (2.0) = 2,042[21]
  • Alternate Configuration S 
    An ER PPC is carried in each arm. A Medium Pulse Laser is installed in each torso; two double heat sinks are installed in the right torso and left torso. The left torso has an Active Probe. Five jump jets are scattered across the rear of each torso to provide a 150 meter jump capability. BV (2.0) = 2,676[22]
  • Alternate Configuration T 
    The T sacrifices the Prime’s accuracy for improved long range damage capabilities. Gone are the pulse lasers and in their place is an ER Large Laser and an ER Medium Laser in each arm. The Prime’s LRM-20s are still in place but now feature Artemis V. Each launcher has a two-ton magazine. An extra double heat sink is mounted in the CT. BV (2.0) = 2,555[23]
  • Alternate Configuration U 
    An underwater configuration, this version uses BattleMech HarJel System to prevent hull breaches. It's equipped with five UMUs to maintain a high cruising speed underwater. Its weaponry consists of twin LRT-15s with Artemis IV guidance and each arm carries a Medium Pulse Laser and ER Medium Laser. BV (2.0) = 2,488[24]
  • Alternate Configuration V 
    An unusual design, the V is used for mobile artillery. An Arrow IV launcher is jammed into the right torso with some of the weapon spilling out into the right arm as well. Two tons of ammo Arrow ammo are carried in the left torso. Unlike some designs, like the Naga, the Vulture V is more than capable of self-defense, and isn’t nearly worthless when out of artillery ammo. An LRM-20 is carried in the left torso and is provided with its own two tons of ammo. Additionally, each arm carries both a Medium Pulse Laser and an ER Medium Laser. BV (2.0) = 2,182[25]
  • Vulture Mk. II 
    Produced by Bergan Industries for Clan Ghost Bear, the Vulture Mk. II introduced by the time of the FedCom Civil War is almost functionally identical to the original, but has a slightly different appearance in terms of armor, structure, engine mounting and other cosmetic areas due to being produced from factories using Spheroid tooling. One such change of note was moving the Medium Pulse Lasers to a torso-mounted chin turret.[26] A chin turret was featured in the Vulture's (apocryphal) depiction in MechWarrior 4.

Apocryphal Configurations[edit]

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.

From MechWarrior Online:

  • MDD-BA Bandit 
    PGI's first Hero 'Mech configuration, the Bandit is themed as being piloted by Russou Howell and is armed with a mammoth Ultra Autocannon/20 in each side torso. With only twin ER Small Lasers in each arm as supporting weapons, its pilot must make every shot of its combined total of two tons of reloads count.[27]
  • MDD-RV "Revenant" 
    Themed as the battered Mad Dog used by ex–Smoke Jaguar Garrett on Solaris VII, the second MWO Hero 'Mech is configured as a long-range specialist mounting sixty Long Range Missile tubes - twin LRM-20s and twin LRM-10s split between its side torsos - supported by four Medium Pulse Lasers, one in each arm and two in a Mad Dog Mk II style center torso mounted turret. Four tons of LRM ammunition is more than enough for the average Solaris duel or Clan Trial.[28]

From Solaris VII Boxed Set - German Edition:

  • Vulture D 
    A different loadout from the canonical "D" version, this one sports 3 medium pulse lasers, 2 LB 2-X autocannons, an LRM-20 and a Streak SRM-6. BV (2.0) = ??[29]

Apocryphal Content Ends

Design Quirks[edit]

The Vulture has the following Design Quirk:[30]

Vulture Mk II[edit]

While the later Vulture Mk III and Vulture Mk IV evolutions of the Mad Dog design became rather prominent, the Vulture Mk II is hardly ever mentioned. In a Line Developer clarification/ruling of 21 August 2013[31] (and thus established as fully canonical), Herb Beas made a connection between the following quote from Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade (p. 130: "Deployment") and the Vulture Mk II:

“ Indeed, since their move to the Inner Sphere, Clan Ghost Bear's Bergan Industries factory line is building more and more Clan designs, including a homegrown Vulture. Minor variances in structure, armor, and engine design—legacy of Bergan's Spheroid factory tooling—have slightly altered the appearance of these Vultures, but these new machines are functionally indistinguishable from their Homeworld forebears.

The bottom line: The Mk. II is functionally identical to the original; it merely differs cosmetically.

”
  — Herbert A. Beas, Line Developer - 21 August 2013

Although credited as a Ghost Bear redesign, the Vulture Mk II owned by Latonya Lyons is stated to be of Clan Smoke Jaguar manufacture in her dossier.[32] To reconcile this with the Line Developer ruling, it can be assumed the 'Mech was originally built by the Jaguars, but refurbished and thereby turned into a Mk II version by the Ghost Bear factory at a later point.

The MechWarrior 4 series depicted the Medium Pulse Lasers as mounted in a chin rack, the results are the moving of the Medium Pulse Lasers into the Center Torso. This model is called the Mad Dog Mk II (Vulture Mk II) by the online BattleTech Community, but it remains uncertain if this is among the cosmetic changes mentioned above. (Technically, changing the location of the lasers from one torso section to another arguably goes beyond being functionally indistinguishable.)

Notable Pilots[edit]

See Category:Notable Mad Dog (Vulture) Pilots

Related BattleMechs[edit]

  • Vulture Mk III - Originally created to bolster the touman of Clan Ghost Bear, and shared with Clan Snow Raven, this design adds more protection while also increasing the missile payload considerably. A fair complement of backup weapons allows the Vulture Mk III to defend itself at closer ranges.
  • Vulture Mk IV - Manufactured by Clan Sea Fox and sold to every nation and Clan, the Vulture Mk IV OmniMech is largely unchanged from the original Vulture in basic design terms.
  • Bushwacker - Recovered schematics of the Vulture allowed TharHes engineers to overcome many issues with the Bushwacker's design, which would have otherwise precluded the 'Mech from active service.
  • Timber Wolf - The Mad Dog shares similar parts to the venerable OmniMech due to the fact it was made from the same mold as the Timber Wolf. But the name of the 'Mech itself was used to insult the Timber Wolf and Lupus designs that came before it.[citation needed]

Notes[edit]

  • In German products, the unit's Clan name was translated to Bluthund, which literally means Bloodhound. The unit's Inner Sphere name was translated to Geier.

Gallery[edit]

References[edit]

  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: Clan Invasion, pp. 46–47: "Vulture"
  2. ↑ MUL online date for the Mad Dog (Vulture)
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 Combat Operations, p. 109
  4. ↑ Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League), p. 82
  5. ↑ Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10, p. 12
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 Technical Readout: 3050, pp. 28–29: "Vulture OmniMech Profile"
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3 Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, pp. 130–131: "Vulture OmniMech Profile"
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 Technical Readout: 3050 Revised, pp. 26–27: "Vulture OmniMech Profile"
  9. ↑ Field Manual: Warden Clans, p. 41
  10. ↑ Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League), p. 83
  11. ↑ Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League), p. 84
  12. ↑ Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League), p. 85
  13. ↑ Record Sheets: Upgrades, p. 105
  14. ↑ Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League), p. 86
  15. ↑ Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10, p. 12
  16. ↑ Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League), p. 87
  17. ↑ Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League), p. 88
  18. ↑ Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades, p. 141
  19. ↑ Record Sheets: 3060, p. 168
  20. ↑ Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrades Unabridged (Clan & Star League), p. 89
  21. ↑ Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10, p. 12
  22. ↑ Battle of Tukayyid, p. 152
  23. ↑ Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10, p. 12
  24. ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Old is the New New, p. 141
  25. ↑ Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 10, p. 12
  26. ↑ Ask The Developer ruling, 21-Aug-2013
  27. ↑ MechWarrior Online Clan Wave Two Hero Sale Page
  28. ↑ MechWarrior Online Solaris-7 Sale Page
  29. ↑ Arena-Planet Solaris VII: "German-language edition of the boxed set Record Sheets Booklet"
  30. ↑ BattleMech Manual, p. 95: BattleMech Quirk Table - Vulture Entry
  31. ↑ In this thread on the official BattleTech Forum
  32. ↑ MechWarrior: Dark Age - Dossiers and Pilot Cards, p. 238: "Latonya Lyons"
  33. ↑ Era Digest: Golden Century, p. 23
  34. ↑ Technical Readout: 3058, p. 92

Bibliography[edit]

Retrieved from "https://www.sarna.net/wiki/index.php?title=Mad_Dog_(Vulture)&oldid=1059318"