Difference between revisions of "Thug"

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{{InfoBoxBattleMech
 
{{InfoBoxBattleMech
|image=Thug.jpg
+
|image = Thug RGilClan v14.jpg
|name=Thug
+
|name = ''Thug''
|manufacturer=[[Maltex Corporation]], [[Earthwerks Incorporated]]
+
|manufacturer =  
|production year=2572
+
[[Earthwerks Incorporated]]<ref name=TRSWp152f>''Technical Readout: Succession Wars'', pp. 152–153: "THG-11E Thug"</ref> <!-- reprinted from TRO:3050U -->
|year reference=<ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3205/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>
+
----
|model=THG-11E
+
[[Maltex Corporation]]<ref name=TRSWp152f />
|class=Assault
+
|production year = 2572
|cost= 8,414,040 C-bills  
+
|year reference = <ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3205/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>
|mass=80
+
|model = THG-11E<ref name=TRSWp152f />
|chassis=Earthwerks VOL [[Endo Steel]]
+
|cost = 8,414,040 C-bills  
|armor=Mitchell Argon
+
|Tech Base = Inner Sphere
|engine=[[Pitban 320]]
+
|mech type = BattleMech
|comsys=[[Colmax 90]]
+
|feet = biped
|speed=64.8
+
|mass = 80
|armament=  
+
|chassis = [[Earthwerks VOL Endo Steel]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp152f /> -->
*2x [[PPC]]s
+
|armor = [[Mitchell Argon]] with [[CASE]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp152f /> -->
*2x [[SRM-6]]s
+
|engine = [[Pitban 320]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp152f /> -->
|BV (1.0)=1,450<ref>''Combat Operations'', pc. 107</ref>
+
|comsys = [[Colmax 90]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp152f /> -->
|BV (2.0)=1,640<ref>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p. 217</ref>
+
|T&T = [[TharHes Ares-5]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp152f /> -->
 +
|heat sinks = 18 [[Double Heat Sink|double]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp152f /> -->
 +
|speed = 64 <!-- <ref name=TRSWp152f /> -->
 +
|armament = <!-- <ref name=TRSWp152f /> -->
 +
*2x [[PPC]]
 +
*2x [[SRM-6]]
 +
|BV (1.0) = 1,450<ref>''Combat Operations'', pc. 107</ref>
 +
|BV (2.0) = 1,640<ref name=TRSWp152f /><ref>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p. 217</ref>
 
}}
 
}}
 
   
 
   
 
==Description==
 
==Description==
The '''''Thug''''' was designed by [[Maltex Corporation]] as a direct competitor to the popular ''[[Warhammer]]'' [[BattleMech]].  First seeing production in [[Production Year::2572]], the ''Thug'' sought to directly address some of the challenges which faced the ''Warhammer'', chief of which was to increase armor protection without sacrificing firepower.  When compared side-by-side, the ''Thug'' has a great many advantages over the ''Warhammer'', yet it never wholly replaced the venerable 'Mech.  Still the ''Thug'' proved popular enough that [[Maltex Corporation]] was forced to contract [[Earthwerks Incorporated]] to produce the ''Thug'' on [[Keystone]] in order to meet demand.  Although it has had its detractors, the ''Thug'' has proven itself for over five hundred years to be the quintessential "zombie 'Mech."<ref name=TRO2750>''Technical Readout: 2750'', p. 48-49</ref><ref name=TRO3025r>''Technical Readout: 3025 Revised'', p. 102-103</ref><ref name=TRO3039>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 274-275</ref><ref name=TRO3050u>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p. 216-217</ref>
+
The '''''Thug''''' was designed by [[Maltex Corporation]] as a direct competitor to the popular ''[[Warhammer]]'' [[BattleMech]].  First seeing production in [[Introduction Year::2572]], the ''Thug'' sought to directly address some of the challenges which faced the ''Warhammer'', chief of which was to increase armor protection without sacrificing firepower.  When compared side-by-side, the ''Thug'' has a great many advantages over the ''Warhammer'', yet it never wholly replaced the venerable 'Mech.  Still the ''Thug'' proved popular enough that [[Maltex Corporation]] was forced to contract [[Earthwerks Incorporated]] to produce the ''Thug'' on [[Keystone]] in order to meet demand.  Although it has had its detractors, the ''Thug'' has proven itself for over five hundred years to be the quintessential "zombie 'Mech."<ref name=TRO2750>''Technical Readout: 2750'', pp. 48–49</ref><ref name=TRO3025r>''Technical Readout: 3025 Revised'', pp. 102–103</ref><ref name=TRO3039>''Technical Readout: 3039'', pp. 274–275</ref><ref name=TRO3050u>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', pp. 216–217</ref>
  
Production of the ''Thug'' from Maltex's original factory on [[Errai]] ceased when it was destroyed in [[Production Ceased::2835]], one of many causalities of the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]], leaving only Earthwerks to continue building new ''Thugs'' at a rate of twelve per year.  Unfortunately the same terrible conflict resulted in the loss of much advanced knowledge and technology, threatening their ability to keep even this meager production rate up.  In a twist of fate it was the ''Warhammer'' which helped keep the ''Thug'' production line alive: with the loss of their original PPC weaponry, Earthwerks instead reworked the design to make use of the extensive stockpile of Donal PPCs used by the ''Warhammer'', allowing new ''Thugs'' to be built and repairs to be made more easily.<ref name=TRO2750/><ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/>
+
Production of the ''Thug'' from Maltex's original factory on [[Errai]] ceased when it was destroyed in [[Production Ceased::2835]], one of many casualties of the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]], leaving only Earthwerks to continue building new ''Thugs'' at a rate of twelve per year.  Unfortunately the same terrible conflict resulted in the loss of much advanced knowledge and technology, threatening their ability to keep even this meager production rate up.  But, in an ironic twist of fate, it was the ''Warhammer'' which helped keep the ''Thug'' production line alive: with the loss of their original PPC weaponry, Earthwerks instead reworked the design to make use of the extensive stockpile of Donal PPCs used by the ''Warhammer'', allowing new ''Thugs'' to be built and repairs to be made more easily.<ref name=TRO2750/><ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/>
  
 
Beyond the few still in service to the [[Great Houses]] the largest user of ''Thugs'' was [[ComStar]], a fact confirmed upon the reveal of their [[Com Guards]].  Eventually the recovery of [[lostech]] would allow both Earthwerks and Maltex to restart production of original-model ''Thugs'' during the 3050s.  These were supplanted by new variants which, following the formation of the [[Second Star League]], were supplied to ComStar, the [[Second Star League Defense Force|SLDF]], the [[Draconis Combine]] and [[Federated Suns]].  New ''Thugs'' were also built for the [[Word of Blake]] and those forces of the [[Free Worlds League]] aligned with them during the [[Jihad]].<ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/>
 
Beyond the few still in service to the [[Great Houses]] the largest user of ''Thugs'' was [[ComStar]], a fact confirmed upon the reveal of their [[Com Guards]].  Eventually the recovery of [[lostech]] would allow both Earthwerks and Maltex to restart production of original-model ''Thugs'' during the 3050s.  These were supplanted by new variants which, following the formation of the [[Second Star League]], were supplied to ComStar, the [[Second Star League Defense Force|SLDF]], the [[Draconis Combine]] and [[Federated Suns]].  New ''Thugs'' were also built for the [[Word of Blake]] and those forces of the [[Free Worlds League]] aligned with them during the [[Jihad]].<ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/>
  
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
The armament on the ''Thug'' is a very simple, yet effective, combination. For striking power, it carries two Tiegart [[Particle Projector Cannon]]s in either arm, similar in performance to those found on the ''Warhammer'' yet ten percent smaller and more redundant. Backing up the PPCs are two Bical-6 [[SRM-6]] launchers mounted in either side torso with one ton of [[CASE]]-protected reloads.  These allow the 'Mech to fight off enemies which get within the minimum range of its PPCs and use special dilating covers when not in use.<ref name=TRO2750/><ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/>
+
The armament on the ''Thug'' is a very simple yet effective combination. For long-range striking power, it carries a [[Tiegart|Tiegart Particle Projector Cannon]] in each arm, similar in performance to those found on the ''Warhammer'' yet ten percent smaller and with more redundancies. Backing up the PPCs are a [[Bical-6|Bical-6 SRM]] launcher mounted in each side torso with one ton of [[CASE]]-protected reloads per side, allowing the Thug to fight off enemies which get within the minimum range of its PPCs.  Each SRM tube is protected by a dilating cover when not in use.<ref name=TRO2750/><ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/>
  
Eighteen [[double heat sinks]] gives the ''Thug'' a far superior heat dissipation compared to the ''Warhammer'' while a ten-ton heavier [[Endo Steel]] frame allows it to carry fifteen and a half tons of armor, more than half again as much carried by the ''Warhammer''.  The ''Thug'' also benefits from the fact that it has hand actuators, making it a mean close-quarters combatant and a good raider able to carry away the spoils of its labor.<ref name=TRO2750/><ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/>
+
Eighteen [[double heat sink]]s gives the ''Thug'' far superior heat dissipation compared to the ''Warhammer'' while a ten-ton heavier [[Endo Steel]] frame allows it to carry fifteen and a half tons of armor, more than half again as much carried by the ''Warhammer''.  The ''Thug'' also benefits from the fact that it has hand actuators, making it a mean close-quarters combatant and a good raider able to carry away the spoils of its labor.<ref name=TRO2750/><ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3050u/>
  
 
==Variants==
 
==Variants==
*;THG-10E : The 10E is a downgraded version of the 11E produced by Earthwerks Incorporated following the destruction of Maltex's facilities in [[2835]]. The primary changes come from the loss of the double heat sinks, CASE, and the Endo Steel structure. To compensate for the weight needed for a standard structure, the [[SRM]]s have been downgraded from six tube launchers to Holly [[SRM-4]]s. In addition, the ''Thug'' lost one ton of ammunition. While this version can still compete with the ''Warhammer'' and boast superior armor protection, the replacement of its double heat sinks with [[single heat sink]]s takes away its greatest advantage.  Its communications and targeting-tracking systems were also replace with a [[Colmax-025]] and [[Instatrack Mark XV]].<ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=BV10E>''Record Sheets: 3039'', pg. 173</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,203,<ref>''Combat Operations'', p. 130</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,501<ref name=BV10E />
+
*; THG-10E : The 10E is a downgraded version of the 11E produced by Earthwerks Incorporated following the destruction of Maltex's facilities in [[2835]]. The primary changes come from the loss of the double heat sinks, CASE, and the Endo Steel structure. To compensate for the weight needed for a standard structure, the [[SRM]]s have been downgraded from six tube launchers to Holly [[SRM-4]]s. In addition, the ''Thug'' lost one ton of ammunition. While this version can still compete with the ''Warhammer'' and boast superior armor protection, the replacement of its double heat sinks with singles takes away its greatest advantage.  Its communications and targeting-tracking systems were also replaced with a [[Colmax-025]] and [[Instatrack Mark XV]].<ref name=TRSWp152f /><ref name=TRO3025r/><ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=BV10E>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 173</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,203;<ref>''Combat Operations'', p. 130</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,501<ref name=BV10E />
  
*;THG-11Eb : The 11Eb is an upgrade of the ''Thug'' used by the [[SLDF Royal units|SLDF Royal Brigades]] in [[2760]]. It upgrades the PPCs to [[ER PPC]]s at the expense of two double heat sinks.<ref>''Technical Readout: 3075'', p. 169</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,759 <ref>''Record Sheets: 3075 Unabriged'', p.180 </ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged - Age of War'', p. 31</ref>
+
*; THG-11Eb : The 11Eb is an upgrade of the ''Thug'' used by the [[SLDF Royal units|SLDF Royal Brigades]] in [[2760]]. It upgrades the PPCs to [[ER PPC]]s.<ref>''Technical Readout: 3075'', p. 169</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,759<ref>''Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged'', p. 180</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged - Age of War'', p. 31</ref>
  
*;THG-12E : Take an extremely powerful long range 'Mech, extend its range and accuracy, and put it in the hands of the [[Inner Sphere]]'s two most secretive organizations, and you have the 12E ''Thug''.  Built for both ComStar and the Word of Blake in [[3067]] the PPCs have been upgraded to ER PPCs and an [[improved C3 computer]] has been added. To make the change to a C3i computer, a double heat sink, one ton of ammunition, and the corresponding [[CASE]] were removed.<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 (Clan & Star League), p. 226</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,476 (C3: 202),<ref>''Combat Operations'', p. 124</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,751
+
*; THG-12E : Take an extremely powerful long range 'Mech, extend its range and accuracy, and put it in the hands of the [[Inner Sphere]]'s two most secretive organizations, and you have the 12E ''Thug''.  Built for both ComStar and the Word of Blake in [[3067]] the PPCs have been upgraded to ER PPCs and an [[C3i computer]] has been added. To make the change to a C3i computer, a double heat sink, one ton of ammunition, and the corresponding [[CASE]] were removed.<ref name=TRSWp152f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 (Clan & Star League), p. 226</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,476 (C3: 202);<ref>''Combat Operations'', p. 124</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,751
  
*;THG-12K : This Draconis Combine variant of the 12E introduced in [[3067]] replaces the C3i with a [[C3 Slave]] and a [[Guardian ECM Suite]].<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 (Clan & Star League)'', p. 227</ref> BV = ???
+
*; THG-12K : This Draconis Combine variant of the 12E introduced in [[3067]] replaces the C3i with a [[C3 slave]] and a [[Guardian ECM suite]].<ref name=TRSWp152f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 (Clan & Star League)'', p. 227</ref> BV = 1,824<ref>[http://masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3208/thug-thg-12k MUL Profile for the THG-12K Thug - Battle Value and Introduction Year</ref>
  
*;THG-13K : The 13K is a variant of the 12E that removes many of the traditional strengths of the ''Thug'' to increase its damage potential. Introduced in [[3068]] the missiles have been removed and the 'Mech is now powered by an [[XL Engine]]. This, combined with the loss of a half-ton of armor and one of the heat sinks, reduces the much-vaunted survivability of the ''Thug'' to make room for three [[Heavy PPC]]s. Though this gives the 13K great damage potential, it can quickly overwhelm its heat dissipation system. Two [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s provide close range defense in case an enemy gets within the minimum range of the PPCs and an Improved C3 CPU enables it to share targeting telemetry with other units equipped with the same.<ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 (Clan & Star League)'', p. 228</ref> BV (2.0) = ???
+
*; THG-13K : The 13K is a variant of the 12E (Introduced in [[3068]]) that removes many of the traditional strengths of the ''Thug'' to increase its damage potential. Introduced in [[3068]] the missiles have been removed and the 'Mech is now powered by an [[XL engine]]. This, combined with the loss of a half-ton of armor and one of the heat sinks, reduces the much-vaunted survivability of the ''Thug'' to make room for three [[heavy PPC]]s. Though this gives the 13K great damage potential, it can quickly overwhelm its heat dissipation system. Two [[medium pulse laser]]s provide close range defense in case an enemy gets within the minimum range of the PPCs and an C3i CPU enables it to share targeting telemetry with other units equipped with the same.<ref name=TRSWp152f /><ref>''Record Sheets: 3050 (Clan & Star League)'', p. 228</ref> BV (2.0) = 2,086<ref>[http://masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3209/thug-thg-13k MUL Profile of the THG-13K Thug - BV2 and Introduction Year.]</ref>
 +
 
 +
*; THG-13U : The 13U carries a [[Snub-Nose PPC]] in each arm. Both side torsos house a pair of [[MML-3]]s, capable of firing twelve missiles per volley. An engine [[Supercharger]] can combine with heat activated [[Triple Strength Myomer]] to sprint at speeds of 108 km/h. Twelve double heat sinks are carried, and the [[Endo Steel]] chassis is protected by twenty tons of [[Ballistic Reinforced Armor]]. The right torso carries two tons of missile ammunition in a [[CASE II]] protected bay. BV (2.0) = 2,545<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 14'', p. 32</ref>
  
 
===Custom Variants===
 
===Custom Variants===
*;''Thug Marita'' : The custom variant piloted by ex-[[Com Guard]] and [[Broadsword Legion]] CO [[Kari Marita]], the standard PPCs have been swapped for [[Clan]]tech ER PPCs, helping to free up weight for a C3i unit. <ref name=FMMR-49>''Field Manual: Mercenaries Revised'', p. 49 "Broadsword Legion: Warriors of Steel"</ref>
+
*; ''Thug'' Marita : The custom variant piloted by ex–Com Guard and [[Broadsword Legion]] CO [[Kari Marita]], the standard PPCs have been swapped for [[Clan]] ER PPCs, helping to free up weight for a C3i unit.<ref name=FMMR-49>''Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised'', p. 49: "Broadsword Legion: Warriors of Steel"</ref>
*;THG-11E ''Reich'' : The personal 'Mech of [[Wild Geese]] member [[Major]] Sandy Reich, the ex-Com Guard's ''Thug'' has been retrofitted with Clan-spec replacement weaponry, with Clan ER PPCs and [[Streak SRM-6]]s fitting neatly into the old locations. Four [[jump jet]]s are included to increase mobility. <ref name=MS2-64>''Mercenaries Supplemental II'', p. 64 "The Wild Geese: Swords and Spurs"</ref> BV (2.0) = 2,612 <ref name=RS3050UCSL-297>''Record Sheets: 3050 Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 297</ref>
+
*; THG-11E ''Thug'' Reich : The personal 'Mech of [[Wild Geese]] member [[Major]] [[Sandy Reich]], the ex–Com Guard's ''Thug'' has been retrofitted with Clan-spec replacement weaponry, with Clan ER PPCs and [[Streak SRM-6]]s fitting neatly into the old locations. Four [[jump jet]]s are included to increase mobility.<ref name=MS2-64>''Mercenaries Supplemental II'', p. 64: "The Wild Geese: Swords and Spurs"</ref> BV (2.0) = 2,612<ref name=RS3050UCSL-297>''Record Sheets: 3050 Unabridged (Clan & Star League)'', p. 297</ref>
 +
 
 +
*; THG-11ECX ''Thug'' Jose : Piloted by mercenary [[Jose Magellan]] during the fall of the Star League, this ''Thug'' variant replaces the standard engine with an [[XL engine|extralight model]]. The PPCs are replaced by [[ER Large Laser]]s. In the space freed by the XL engine, Magellan installed three more SRM-6 launchers, for a total of five. The cockpit adds a [[Command Console]] to allow a Rim Worlds commander to see the entire battlefield. Four jump jets allow the ''Thug Jose'' to cover 120 meters at a time. Finally, a [[Null Signature System]] interfered with [[SLDF]] targeting systems.<ref name=XTRO:GSp7>''Experimental Technical Readout: Gunslingers'', p. 7</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,668<ref>''Experimental Technical Readout: Gunslingers'', p. 20</ref>
  
*;THG-11ECX ''Thug Jose'' : Piloted by mercenary Jose Magellan during the fall of the Star League, this ''Thug'' variant replaces the standard engine with an [[XL Engine|extralight model]]. The PPCs are replaced by [[ER Large Laser]]s. In the space freed by the XL Engine, Magellan installed three more SRM-6 launchers, for a total of five. The cockpit adds a [[Command Console]] to allow a Rim Worlds commander to see the entire battlefield. Four jump jets allow the ''Thug Jose'' to cover 120 meters at a time. Finally, a [[Null Signature System]] interfered with [[SLDF]] targeting systems.<ref name=XTRO:GSp7>''Experimental Technical Readout: Gunslingers'', p. 7</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,668<ref>''Experimental Technical Readout: Gunslingers'', p. 20</ref>
+
== Design Quirks ==
 +
The ''Thug'' has the following [[Design Quirks|Design Quirk]]:<ref>''BattleMech Manual'', p. 95: "BattleMech Quirk Table"</ref><ref>[https://bg.battletech.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BattleMech-Manual-2022-09-14-v6.01.pdf ''BattleMech Manual Errata (Version 6.01)''], p. 9: "BattleMech Quirk Table"</ref>
 +
* [[Rugged|Rugged (1)]]<!-- added by errata -->
 +
<!-- No Torso Twist removed by errata -->
 +
 
 +
The THG-11ECX ''Thug Jose'' variant is subject to the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref name=XTRO:GSp7/>
 +
* [[Bad Reputation]]
 +
* [[Non-Standard Parts]]
 +
* [[Obsolete|Obsolete/2776]]
  
 
==Related BattleMechs==
 
==Related BattleMechs==
Line 55: Line 74:
 
* '''''[[Warhammer]]''''' - The ''Thug'' was designed to be a better ''Warhammer''.<ref>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p. 216</ref>
 
* '''''[[Warhammer]]''''' - The ''Thug'' was designed to be a better ''Warhammer''.<ref>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p. 216</ref>
  
==Design Quirks==
+
==Notable Pilots==
The THG-11ECX ''Thug Jose'' variant is subject to the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref name=XTRO:GSp7/>
+
:''See: [[:Category:Notable Thug Pilots]]
* [[Bad Reputation]]
+
 
* [[Non-Standard Parts]]
+
==Notes==
* [[Obsolete|Obsolete/2776]]
+
* In German products, the unit's proper name was translated to '''''Schläger'''''. The model code was accordingly changed to '''SLG-11E'''.
  
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
 
<gallery>
 
<gallery>
Image:THG-10ETHUG.png|THG-10E ''Thug''
+
Thug.jpg|Original THG-11E ''Thug'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 2750|TRO:2750]]''
Image:THG-THUG.png|THG-10E ''Thug''
+
THG-THUG.png|THG-10E ''Thug'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3025 Revised|TRO:3025 Revised]]''
Image:3050U Thug.jpg|THG-11E ''Thug''
+
THG-10ETHUG.png|THG-10E ''Thug'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3039|TRO:3039]]''
Image:Thug_1.jpg|[[Kari Marita]] in her ''[[Thug]]'' on [[Outreach]]
+
3050U Thug.jpg|THG-11E ''Thug'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade|TRO:3050 Upgrade]]''
 +
Thug_Jose_XTROGunslingers.png|THG-11ECX ''Thug Jose'' from ''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Gunslingers|XTRO:Gunslingers]]''
 +
Thug RGilClan v14.jpg|''Thug'' from ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 14|RG:ilClan v14]]''
 +
Thug HistBrushWars.jpg|A battle-scarred ''Thug'' from ''[[Historical: Brush Wars]]''
 +
Thug OpKlondike.jpg|A [[Clan Ghost Bear]] ''Thug'' at the end of [[Operation KLONDIKE]]
 +
Thug_1.jpg|[[Kari Marita]] in her ''Thug'' on [[Outreach]] from ''[[Fire for Effect]]'' anthology cover
 +
Inner Sphere Support Lance - Thug.jpg|''Thug'' miniature from ''[[BattleTech: Inner Sphere Support Lance]]''
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
  
Line 73: Line 98:
  
 
==Bibliography==
 
==Bibliography==
*''[[Combat Operations]]''
+
<div class="desktop-3-col">
*''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Gunslingers]]''
+
* ''[[BattleMech Manual]]''
*''[[Field Manual: Mercenaries Revised]]''
+
* ''[[Combat Operations]]''
*''[[Mercenaries Supplemental II]]''
+
* ''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Gunslingers]]''
*''[[Record Sheets: 3025/3026]]''
+
* ''[[Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised]]''
*''[[Record Sheets: 3039]]''
+
* ''[[Mercenaries Supplemental II]]''
*''[[Record Sheets: 3050]]''
+
* ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 14]]''
*''[[Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Clan & Star League)]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3025/3026]]''
*''[[Record Sheets: 3067]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3039]]''
*''[[Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3050]]''
*''[[Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged - Age of War]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Clan & Star League)]]''
*''[[Technical Readout: 2750]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3067]]''
*''[[Technical Readout: 3025 Revised]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged]]''
*''[[Technical Readout: 3039]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged - Age of War]]''
*''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 2750]]''
*''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Revised]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3025 Revised]]''
*''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3039]]''
*''[[Technical Readout: 3075]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]''
 
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Revised]]''
 +
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade]]''
 +
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3075]]''
 +
</div>
  
[[Category:BattleMechs]]
+
[[Category:'Mechs]]
[[Category:Assault BattleMechs]]
+
[[Category:ComStar BattleMechs]]
[[Category:80 ton BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Comstar BattleMechs]]
 
 
[[Category:Draconis Combine BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Draconis Combine BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Free Rasalhague Republic BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Free Rasalhague Republic BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]]
[[Category:SLDF 2750 BattleMechs]]
+
[[Category:Star League BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:SLDF Royal BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:SLDF Royal BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Word of Blake BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Word of Blake BattleMechs]]
[[Category:C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
 
[[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
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[[Category:C3 Slave Equipped BattleMechs]]
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[[Category:German renamed units]]

Latest revision as of 21:11, 29 March 2024

Thug
Thug
Production information
Manufacturer Earthwerks Incorporated[1]

Maltex Corporation[1]

Production Year 2572[2]
Model THG-11E[1]
Class Assault
Cost 8,414,040 C-bills
Technical specifications
'Mech type Inner Sphere BattleMech
Mass 80 tons
Chassis Earthwerks VOL Endo Steel
Armor Mitchell Argon with CASE
Engine Pitban 320
Communications System Colmax 90
Targeting Tracking System TharHes Ares-5
Heat Sinks 18 double
Speed 64 km/h
Armament
BV (1.0) 1,450[3]
BV (2.0) 1,640[1][4]


Description[edit]

The Thug was designed by Maltex Corporation as a direct competitor to the popular Warhammer BattleMech. First seeing production in 2572, the Thug sought to directly address some of the challenges which faced the Warhammer, chief of which was to increase armor protection without sacrificing firepower. When compared side-by-side, the Thug has a great many advantages over the Warhammer, yet it never wholly replaced the venerable 'Mech. Still the Thug proved popular enough that Maltex Corporation was forced to contract Earthwerks Incorporated to produce the Thug on Keystone in order to meet demand. Although it has had its detractors, the Thug has proven itself for over five hundred years to be the quintessential "zombie 'Mech."[5][6][7][8]

Production of the Thug from Maltex's original factory on Errai ceased when it was destroyed in 2835, one of many casualties of the Succession Wars, leaving only Earthwerks to continue building new Thugs at a rate of twelve per year. Unfortunately the same terrible conflict resulted in the loss of much advanced knowledge and technology, threatening their ability to keep even this meager production rate up. But, in an ironic twist of fate, it was the Warhammer which helped keep the Thug production line alive: with the loss of their original PPC weaponry, Earthwerks instead reworked the design to make use of the extensive stockpile of Donal PPCs used by the Warhammer, allowing new Thugs to be built and repairs to be made more easily.[5][6][7][8]

Beyond the few still in service to the Great Houses the largest user of Thugs was ComStar, a fact confirmed upon the reveal of their Com Guards. Eventually the recovery of lostech would allow both Earthwerks and Maltex to restart production of original-model Thugs during the 3050s. These were supplanted by new variants which, following the formation of the Second Star League, were supplied to ComStar, the SLDF, the Draconis Combine and Federated Suns. New Thugs were also built for the Word of Blake and those forces of the Free Worlds League aligned with them during the Jihad.[7][8]

Weapons and Equipment[edit]

The armament on the Thug is a very simple yet effective combination. For long-range striking power, it carries a Tiegart Particle Projector Cannon in each arm, similar in performance to those found on the Warhammer yet ten percent smaller and with more redundancies. Backing up the PPCs are a Bical-6 SRM launcher mounted in each side torso with one ton of CASE-protected reloads per side, allowing the Thug to fight off enemies which get within the minimum range of its PPCs. Each SRM tube is protected by a dilating cover when not in use.[5][6][7][8]

Eighteen double heat sinks gives the Thug far superior heat dissipation compared to the Warhammer while a ten-ton heavier Endo Steel frame allows it to carry fifteen and a half tons of armor, more than half again as much carried by the Warhammer. The Thug also benefits from the fact that it has hand actuators, making it a mean close-quarters combatant and a good raider able to carry away the spoils of its labor.[5][6][7][8]

Variants[edit]

  • THG-10E 
    The 10E is a downgraded version of the 11E produced by Earthwerks Incorporated following the destruction of Maltex's facilities in 2835. The primary changes come from the loss of the double heat sinks, CASE, and the Endo Steel structure. To compensate for the weight needed for a standard structure, the SRMs have been downgraded from six tube launchers to Holly SRM-4s. In addition, the Thug lost one ton of ammunition. While this version can still compete with the Warhammer and boast superior armor protection, the replacement of its double heat sinks with singles takes away its greatest advantage. Its communications and targeting-tracking systems were also replaced with a Colmax-025 and Instatrack Mark XV.[1][6][7][9] BV (1.0) = 1,203;[10] BV (2.0) = 1,501[9]
  • THG-12E 
    Take an extremely powerful long range 'Mech, extend its range and accuracy, and put it in the hands of the Inner Sphere's two most secretive organizations, and you have the 12E Thug. Built for both ComStar and the Word of Blake in 3067 the PPCs have been upgraded to ER PPCs and an C3i computer has been added. To make the change to a C3i computer, a double heat sink, one ton of ammunition, and the corresponding CASE were removed.[1][14] BV (1.0) = 1,476 (C3: 202);[15] BV (2.0) = 1,751
  • THG-13K 
    The 13K is a variant of the 12E (Introduced in 3068) that removes many of the traditional strengths of the Thug to increase its damage potential. Introduced in 3068 the missiles have been removed and the 'Mech is now powered by an XL engine. This, combined with the loss of a half-ton of armor and one of the heat sinks, reduces the much-vaunted survivability of the Thug to make room for three heavy PPCs. Though this gives the 13K great damage potential, it can quickly overwhelm its heat dissipation system. Two medium pulse lasers provide close range defense in case an enemy gets within the minimum range of the PPCs and an C3i CPU enables it to share targeting telemetry with other units equipped with the same.[1][18] BV (2.0) = 2,086[19]

Custom Variants[edit]

  • Thug Marita 
    The custom variant piloted by ex–Com Guard and Broadsword Legion CO Kari Marita, the standard PPCs have been swapped for Clan ER PPCs, helping to free up weight for a C3i unit.[21]
    THG-11E Thug Reich 
    The personal 'Mech of Wild Geese member Major Sandy Reich, the ex–Com Guard's Thug has been retrofitted with Clan-spec replacement weaponry, with Clan ER PPCs and Streak SRM-6s fitting neatly into the old locations. Four jump jets are included to increase mobility.[22] BV (2.0) = 2,612[23]
  • THG-11ECX Thug Jose 
    Piloted by mercenary Jose Magellan during the fall of the Star League, this Thug variant replaces the standard engine with an extralight model. The PPCs are replaced by ER Large Lasers. In the space freed by the XL engine, Magellan installed three more SRM-6 launchers, for a total of five. The cockpit adds a Command Console to allow a Rim Worlds commander to see the entire battlefield. Four jump jets allow the Thug Jose to cover 120 meters at a time. Finally, a Null Signature System interfered with SLDF targeting systems.[24] BV (2.0) = 1,668[25]

Design Quirks[edit]

The Thug has the following Design Quirk:[26][27]

The THG-11ECX Thug Jose variant is subject to the following Design Quirks:[24]

Related BattleMechs[edit]

Notable Pilots[edit]

See: Category:Notable Thug Pilots

Notes[edit]

  • In German products, the unit's proper name was translated to Schläger. The model code was accordingly changed to SLG-11E.

Gallery[edit]

References[edit]

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 Technical Readout: Succession Wars, pp. 152–153: "THG-11E Thug"
  2. MUL online date for the Thug
  3. Combat Operations, pc. 107
  4. Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 217
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 Technical Readout: 2750, pp. 48–49
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 6.4 Technical Readout: 3025 Revised, pp. 102–103
  7. 7.0 7.1 7.2 7.3 7.4 7.5 Technical Readout: 3039, pp. 274–275
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 8.3 8.4 Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, pp. 216–217
  9. 9.0 9.1 Record Sheets: 3039, p. 173
  10. Combat Operations, p. 130
  11. Technical Readout: 3075, p. 169
  12. Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged, p. 180
  13. Record Sheets: 3075 Unabridged - Age of War, p. 31
  14. Record Sheets: 3050 (Clan & Star League), p. 226
  15. Combat Operations, p. 124
  16. Record Sheets: 3050 (Clan & Star League), p. 227
  17. [http://masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3208/thug-thg-12k MUL Profile for the THG-12K Thug - Battle Value and Introduction Year
  18. Record Sheets: 3050 (Clan & Star League), p. 228
  19. MUL Profile of the THG-13K Thug - BV2 and Introduction Year.
  20. Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 14, p. 32
  21. Field Manual: Mercenaries, Revised, p. 49: "Broadsword Legion: Warriors of Steel"
  22. Mercenaries Supplemental II, p. 64: "The Wild Geese: Swords and Spurs"
  23. Record Sheets: 3050 Unabridged (Clan & Star League), p. 297
  24. 24.0 24.1 Experimental Technical Readout: Gunslingers, p. 7
  25. Experimental Technical Readout: Gunslingers, p. 20
  26. BattleMech Manual, p. 95: "BattleMech Quirk Table"
  27. BattleMech Manual Errata (Version 6.01), p. 9: "BattleMech Quirk Table"
  28. Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 216

Bibliography[edit]