Aeron
Sarna News
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| Aeron Strike VTOL | |
| Production information | |
| Manufacturer | Brooks Incorporated[1] |
| Production Year | 3082[2] |
| Mission | Strike Craft Interdictor |
| Type | VTOL |
| Technical specifications | |
| Mass | 25[1] |
| Armor | Durallex Super Heavy Ferro-Fibrous[1] |
| Engine | Nissan 160 XL[1] |
| Speed | 194[1] km/h |
| Communications System | Maxell 1500-ECM[1] |
| Targeting Tracking System | Maxell TA 65/Targeting Tracking[1] |
| Armament | |
| BV (2.0) | 875[1][2] |
Description
The Aeron attack VTOL was derived from prototypes created by the Word of Blake at the beginning of the Jihad era. These experimental models mounted a new vector thrust propulsion system on a Hawk Moth chassis. It was thought that this method of propulsion would prove less vulnerable to damage than conventional rotor blades. Early versions of the Aeron were first deployed by the Blakists as part of operations on Outreach in late 3067. However, experience showed the vector-thrust system to be less rugged than was hoped, and the Blakists abandoned the concept.[1]
Brooks Incorporated of Andurien acquired vector thrust technology from the bankrupt Michaelson Heavy Industries and put the fully-developed Aeron into production by 3082. The craft was in widespread use among the forces of both Inner Sphere and Clan factions by the mid 3080s.[1]
Weapons and Equipment
The craft's main and only weapon is its Hellion-a III Extended Range Large Laser, which is mounted in the front of the craft. The accuracy of the Aeron's laser is augmented by a Targeting Computer, which allows the craft to use its high speed while experiencing little problem targeting opponents. Other equipment includes a Guardian ECM Suite, which allows the craft to both jam more sophisticated electronics and be used in the interdiction role. The Aeron carries 3.5 tons of Durallex Super Heavy Ferro-Fibrous Armor to allow better durability in combat and to protect the craft's powerful but fragile Extra Light Fusion Engine.[1]
Variants
- BAP
- Intended as a less-expensive alternative to the principal model, this variant is seen as a recon and sniper vehicle developed in 3084[3]. In place of the craft's Targeting Computer, a Beagle Active Probe is added along with a half-ton cargo bay. The small bay is intended to be able to carry remote drones[1]. BV (2.0) = 775[4][3]
Notes
The Aeron was originally based on a VTOL that first appeared in Microsoft Game Studios' video MechAssault 2: Lone Wolf. The craft was unnamed in this game and used as a support craft in Wolf's Dragoons efforts to topple the Word of Blake.
References
- ↑ 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 Technical Readout: 3085 Supplemental, pp. 12-13, "Aeron Strike VTOL"
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 MUL online entry for the Aeron
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 MUL online entry for the Aeron Strike VTOL (BAP) variant
- ↑ Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged - The Cutting Edge, p. 16