Difference between revisions of "Archer"

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|image=3025_archer.jpg
 
|image=3025_archer.jpg
 
|name=Archer
 
|name=Archer
|manufacturer=[[Earthwerks Incorporated]]<ref name=tro3039/> [[Bowie Industries]] <ref>''Objectives: Lyran Alliance, p.29</ref>, [[LexaTech Industries]]<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 256</ref>, [[Vandenberg Mechanized Industries]]<ref name=tro3039/> [[Defiance Industries]] <ref>''Objectives: Lyran Alliance'', p.29 </ref>, [[Gorton, Kingsley & Thorpe Enterprises]] <ref name=tro3039>''Technical Readout: 3039, p.296</ref>
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|manufacturer=[[Bowie Industries]] <ref name=OLA>''Objectives: Lyran Alliance'', p.29</ref> <br> [[Diplass BattleMechs]]<ref name="FR2765:Pp11">''Field Report 2765: Periphery'', p. 11, "Infrastructural Integrity"</ref> <br> [[Earthwerks Incorporated]]<ref name=TRO3039/> <br> [[LexaTech Industries]]<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 256</ref> <br> [[Vandenberg Mechanized Industries]]<ref name=TRO3039/> <br> [[Defiance Industries]]<ref name=OLA/> <br> [[Gorton, Kingsley & Thorpe Enterprises]] <ref name=TRO3039>''Technical Readout: 3039, p.296</ref>
 
|production year=2474
 
|production year=2474
|year reference=<ref>''Era Digest: Age of War'', p. 11 and 22, state a primitive technology ''Archer'' was introduced in [[2458]]</ref><ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/74/archer-arc-2r ''MUL online date for'' {{PAGENAME}}]</ref>
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|year reference=<ref>''Era Digest: Age of War'', p. 11 and 22, state a primitive technology ''Archer'' was introduced in [[2458]]</ref><ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/74/archer-arc-2r ''MUL online date for''</ref>
 
|model=ARC-2R
 
|model=ARC-2R
 
|class=Heavy
 
|class=Heavy
 
|cost=  6,384,974 C-bills
 
|cost=  6,384,974 C-bills
|Tech Base=[[Inner Sphere]]
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|Tech Base = Inner Sphere
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|mech type =BattleMech
 
|mass=70
 
|mass=70
 
|chassis=Earthwerk Archer
 
|chassis=Earthwerk Archer
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==Description==
 
==Description==
Introduced in [[2474]]<ref>''Technical Readout: 3025'', p. 92</ref><ref>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 296</ref>, the '''''Archer''''' is one of the best-known and most widely-used [['Mech]]s available.  A contemporary of 'Mechs such as the ''[[Thunderbolt]]'' and the ''[[Banshee (BattleMech)|Banshee]]'', the ''Archer'''s primary role is as a fire support 'Mech, though early in its combat career it was considered an assault 'Mech. More than 100,000 ''Archers'' had been produced by the start of the [[First Succession War]], and though many have been destroyed or dismantled for spare parts, they remain a common sight in the [[Great House]] armies.
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The origins of the '''''Archer''''' date back to [[Introduction Year::2458]] when [[Earthwerks Incorporated]] debuted a prototype known as the ARC-1A ''Archer''. The design was created at the request of [[Terran Hegemony|Terran Hegemony's]] [[Hegemony Armed Forces|HAF]] for a new "heavy fire support BattleMech" and took nearly 9 years to finalize. This was in part due to the design team; a combination of former HAF MechWarriors, field technicians, and general officer consultants and the company's engineer team led by Supervising Engineer [[Linn Tommi]] squabbling over theoretical and practical issues. The complex engineering proposal brought before the HAF included complicated, hard-to-repair stabilization equipment and advanced, computer-slaved sensors, meant to make the ''Archer'' the most accurate BattleMech in existence. However, the final prototype abandoned these requirements in favor of a more sturdy, blocky, and heavily armored frame still familiar today. It was so successful that it remained the Hegemony standard for more than a decade and a half until advances in technology allowed Earthwerks to produce a more efficient model.<ref name=XTROPv5ARC>''Experimental Technical Readout: Primitives, Volume 5'', p. 6 "ARC-1A ''Archer'' 'Mech Profile"</ref>
  
The 'Mech has been used in a variety of roles, the most common of which is its intended role of indirect fire support and bombardment of enemy fortifications. It also seems a quite popular choice for various Battlemech commanders, perhaps due to its long reach, allowing them to observe from a distance while also participating in a battle. The ''Archer'' has a top speed of 64.8 km/h and is protected by thirteen tons of armorIt's also unique in that its cockpit is located beneath the central torso, with the torso armor belt located above the cockpit to protect the [[Gyro]] and engine. The ''Archer'''s only drawbacks are that it is less effective in close quarters combat, and its familiarity is such that most enemy pilots know its design capabilities quite wellNumerous variations of the ''Archer'' continue to be produced as the various factions continue to make use of the venerable design.
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Introduced in [[2474]], the ARC-2R ''Archer'' became one of the best-known and most widely-used [[BattleMech]]s available.  A contemporary of 'Mechs such as the ''[[Thunderbolt]]'' and the ''[[Banshee (BattleMech)|Banshee]]'', the ''Archer'''s primary role was fire support, though early in its combat career it was considered an assault 'Mech capable of long-range brawling, and it was used in a variety of other roles. More than 100,000 ''Archers'' were produced between its introduction and the start of the [[First Succession War]], with tens of thousands of its variant models produced over the centuries. Though many were destroyed or dismantled for spare parts, they remained a common sight in the [[Great House]] armies, with six different factories producing new ''Archers'' throughout the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]].<ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3025>''Technical Readout: 3025'', p. 92</ref>
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The recovery of the [[Helm Memory Core]] had a profound effect on the development of the ''Archer''New variants were produced which utilized rediscovered [[lostech]], giving the venerable 'Mech a few new tricks to surprise its opponents.  By the time of the [[Clan Invasion]], most of the major manufacturers had switched over to building these new variants for the [[Free Worlds League]], [[Federated Commonwealth]], [[Free Rasalhague Republic]], and [[Wolf's Dragoons]]; only [[Vandenberg Mechanized Industries]] continued to build original ARC-2R ''Archers'' for the [[Taurian Concordat]].<ref name=TRO3050>''Technical Readout: 3050'', p. 162</ref> Newer, more advanced variants of the ''Archer'' continued to be developed as technology progressed in the years since.<ref name=TROPP>''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', p. 44</ref>
  
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
The ''Archer'''s primary weapons are a pair of Doombud [[LRM-20]] missile launchers with enough ammunition for two minutes of continuous fire. This makes the ''Archer'' a very capable, and deadly, fire support 'Mech. For close combat situations, the ''Archer'' carries four Diverse Optics Type 18 [[Medium Laser]]s, two of which are rear mounted.
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The ''Archer's'' primary weapons were a pair of [[Doombud]] [[LRM-20]] missile launchers with four tons of ammunition, enough for two minutes of continuous fire. The ammo was split between the side torsos.  When the design was still relatively unknown, some ''Archer'' drivers were known to keep their missile bay doors closed in order to fool the enemy, but this trick has since lost its effect. For close combat situations, the ''Archer'' carries four [[Diverse Optics Type 18]] [[Medium Laser]]s.  Each arm is equipped with a laser, with the other two mounted on a centrally-located turret above the cockpit, giving them a clear field of fire to attack targets behind the 'Mech.  Though not a particularly adept hand-to-hand combatant, the ''Archer'''s oversized battle fists serve it well in close combat and allow it to easily pilfer supplies when taking part in a raid.<ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3025/>
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The ''Archer'' was well protected by thirteen tons of armor and had a cruising speed of 44.1 km/h.  However, it suffered from a poor heat management system, with just ten [[heat sinks]] to remove waste heat; an ''Archer'' firing both LRM launchers and its lasers would quickly start to overheat.  The ''Archer'' also suffered in part for being for being so common; most enemy pilots were very familiar with the design's capabilities, and how to exploit that to their advantage.  The most unique feature of the ''Archer'' compared to other humanoid 'Mechs was its cockpit placement, located beneath the central torso.  Although giving the MechWarrior a unique battlefield perspective, this placement didn't provide any additional protection as it sat below the torso armor belt, which shielded the [[Gyro]] and engine from enemy fire.<ref name=TRO3039/><ref name=TRO3025/>
  
 
==Variants==
 
==Variants==
*;ARC-2K : The 2K ''Archer'' is a modification built to increase its direct firepower capability and give it more staying power on the battlefield once it has run out of ammunition. The 'Mech replaces the LRM-20 launchers with two [[LRM-15]] launchers and removes all of the Medium Lasers. The 'Mech uses the saved weight to add two [[Large Laser]]s and two [[heat sink]]s. BV (1.0) = 977, BV (2.0) = 1,356<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 482</ref>
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*;ARC-1A : The original ''Archer'' prototype built for the [[Terran Hegemony]] in [[2458]] with [[Primitive Technology]]. It was slower than the successor ARC-2R variant with a top speed of 54 km/h with the inclusion of a 255 [[Primitive Engine]]. Its loadout was somewhat similar, with the frame housing a pair of [[LRM-20|LRM-20's]] and 4 tons of ammunition, but only mounted two [[Medium Lasers]], one in each fully-articulated arm for close-in defense. The inclusion of large armored access panels in the 'Mech's rear made reloading the limited ammunition stores easier. It was also protected by 16 tons of [[Primitive Armor]]. At the time, it was praised for its reliability and ease of maintenance, although in combat produced far more excess heat than the machine could handle if all weapons were fired - a similar issue carried over to the later ''Archer''.<ref name=XTROPv5ARC/> BV (2.0) = 1,269<ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/3721/archer-arc-1a MUL Profile for ARC-1A includes BV2.]</ref>
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*;ARC-2K : The 2K ''Archer'' was a modification built for the [[Draconis Combine]] in [[2856]], designed to increase its direct firepower capability and give it more staying power on the battlefield once it had run out of ammunition. The 'Mech replaced the LRM-20 launchers with two FarFire 15 [[LRM-15]] launchers and removed all of the medium lasers along with some armor. They used this extra weight to add a [[Large Laser]] in each arm, and two [[heat sink]]s. Besides its use with Combine forces, this variant became common among the [[KungsArmé]] following its formation.<ref name=TRO3025/> BV (1.0) = 977, BV (2.0) = 1,356<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 482</ref>
  
*;ARC-2Rb : Equipped with [[Star League]] technology, the 2Rb variant of the ''Archer'' is based on an [[Endo Steel]] internal structure. It drops one of the rear-firing Medium Lasers and a ton of ammunition to equip the LRM-20s with [[Artemis IV]] fire control systems and [[CASE]]. The 2Rb also uses ten double heat sinks to keep the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 1,705<ref>''Record Sheets: Operation Klondike'', p. 46</ref>
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*;ARC-2Rb : Equipped with [[Star League]] technology, the 2Rb variant of the ''Archer'' was built for [[SLDF Royal units]] starting in [[2752]].  Built on an [[Endo Steel]] internal structure, this variant dropped one of the rear-firing medium lasers and one ton of ammunition to equip the LRM-20s with [[Artemis IV]] fire control systems and [[CASE]]. The 2Rb also used ten [[double heat sink]]s to keep the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 1,705<ref>''Record Sheets: Operation Klondike'', p. 46</ref>
  
*;ARC-2R (C) : A [[Clan]]-tech retrofit of the standard [[SLDF]] ARC-2R ''Archer'' and intended for second-line and [[solahma]] troops, the ''Archer C'' replaces all [[Inner Sphere]] weaponry with their Clan counterparts without modifying any structural components.  The ''Archer C'' mounts a pair of [[LRM-20]]s, capable of launching [[Swarm LRM]] munitions, and a quartet of [[ER Medium Laser]]s.<ref name=BFT>''The Battle for Twycross'', p. 49</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,721<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 161</ref>
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*;ARC-2R (C) : A [[Clan]]-tech retrofit of the standard [[Star League Defense Force]] ARC-2R ''Archer'' and intended for second-line and [[solahma]] troops, the ''Archer C'' replaced all [[Inner Sphere]] weaponry with their Clan counterparts without modifying any structural components.  The ''Archer C'' mounted a pair of LRM-20s, capable of launching [[Swarm LRM]] munitions, and a quartet of [[ER Medium Laser]]s.<ref name=BFT>''The Battle for Twycross'', p. 49</ref> BV (2.0) = 1,721<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 161</ref>
  
*;ARC-2S : The 2S is another modification made to allow the ''Archer'' to defend itself more easily against an enemy that manages to close ranges with it. The 'Mech replaces the LRM-20 launchers with two LRM-15 launchers and uses the saved weight to add two [[SRM-4]] launchers, giving it additional short range firepower. BV (1.0) = 997, BV (2.0) = 1,393<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 484</ref>
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*;ARC-2S : The 2S was another modification made to allow the ''Archer'' to defend itself more easily against an enemy that managed to close range with it. Built for [[House Steiner]] in [[2915]], the 2S replaced the LRM-20 launchers with two LRM-15 launchers and used the saved weight to add two [[SRM-4]] launchers, carried in either side torso along with one ton of ammunition per launcher, giving it additional short range firepower.<ref name=TRO3025/>  BV (1.0) = 997, BV (2.0) = 1,393<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 484</ref>
  
*;ARC-2W : The 2W is similar to the 2S model, but increases its close range firepower in a different manner. The two rear firing Medium Lasers have been removed, the armor protection has been reduced by three tons, and two [[SRM-4]] launchers have been added to the 'Mech. The 2W retains its LRM-20 launchers. This was the trademark subvariant of [[Wolf's Dragoons]], which they produced in the assembly plant aboard their space station ''Hephaestos'' until its destruction in [[3028]]. '''Note:''' It was once stated by [[Jaime Wolf]] that all of the Dragoons' ''Archers'' were of this variant, but this is unconfirmed. <ref>''[[Wolves on the Border]]''</ref> BV (1.0) = 932, BV (2.0) = 1,338<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 485</ref>
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*;ARC-2W : The 2W, introduced in [[3010]], was similar to the 2S model but increased its close range firepower in a different manner. Like the 2S, it mounted a pair of SRM-4 launchers but carried just one ton of ammo for them, and it retained the LRM-20 launchers.  Instead the two rear firing medium lasers were removed and armor protection was reduced by three tons in order to make these modifications. This was the trademark subvariant used by the [[Wolf's Dragoons]], which they produced in the assembly plant aboard their space station ''Hephaestos'' until its destruction in [[3028]]. '''Note:''' It was once stated by [[Jaime Wolf]] that all of the Dragoons' ''Archers'' were of this variant, but this is unconfirmed. <ref>''[[Wolves on the Border]]''</ref> BV (1.0) = 932, BV (2.0) = 1,338<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 485</ref>
  
*;ARC-4M : An upgrade using rediscovered [[Star League]] technology, the 4M is built around an [[Endo Steel]] chassis and increases the armor by half a ton. The 'Mech upgrades its heat sinks to [[double heat sink]]s for added heat dissipation capabilities. The 'Mech upgrades its twin LRM-20 launchers by adding [[Artemis IV]] fire control systems to the launchers and still mounts four Medium Lasers, two of which are still rear mounted. This design also incorporates CASE. BV (1.0) = 1,539{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,705<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 148</ref>
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*;ARC-4M : An upgrade using rediscovered [[Star League]] technology, the 4M was built built on [[Calloway VI]] by Earthwerks in [[3049]] for the Free Worlds League.  It used an Earthwerk Archer II [[Endo Steel]] chassis to free up weight for a number of improvements.  It carried an additional half-ton of Maximillian 100 armor and utilized ten [[double heat sink]]s for added heat dissipation capabilities. The 'Mech also upgraded its twin Doombud LRM-20 launchers by adding [[Artemis IV]] fire control systems to the launchers and incorporated [[CASE]] to protect the four tons of missile ammo.<ref name=TRO3050/> BV (1.0) = 1,539, BV (2.0) = 1,705<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 148</ref>
  
*;ARC-5R : Built in the [[Free Rasalhague Republic]] prior to the [[Clan Invasion]], the 5R is similar to the 2K model of the ''Archer'', and is built on an Endo Steel chassis and upgrades its heat sinks to double heat sinks. The LRM-15 launchers have had Artemis IV fire control systems added for increased accuracy and the 'Mech now has two [[ER Large Laser]]s for long range direct firepower. BV (1.0) = 1,319{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,672<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 149</ref>
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*;ARC-5R : Built by the GKT Enterprise factory on [[Satalice]] for the Free Rasalhague Republic, the 5R was introduced in [[3050]] and bore similarities to the 2K model of the ''Archer''. It carried a pair of [[FarFire LRM-15]] launchers but mounted two [[Victory Nickel Alloy]] [[ER Large Laser]]s, one in either arm, in place of the medium lasers.  It also linked Artemis IV fire control systems to the launchers and utilized twelve double heat sinks to improve waste heat dissipation.  Despite being built around an Endo-Steel chassis, these improvements necessitated a decrease in armor protection by two tons.<ref name=TRO3050/> BV (1.0) = 1,319{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,672<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 149</ref>
  
*;ARC-5S : The 5S variant of the ''Archer'' upgrades the engine to an [[XL Engine]], cutting the engine's weight in half. The 5S also reduces the LRM-20 launchers to LRM-15s. The saved weight has been used to add two [[Streak SRM-2]] launchers and allowed the Medium Lasers to be upgraded to four [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s. Finally, the 'Mech has a [[Narc Missile Beacon]], which allows the ''Archer'' to tag enemy units with a beacon, allowing friendly 'Mechs to easily target the unit with missile weapons. BV (1.0) = 1,122{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,353<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 150</ref>
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*;ARC-5S : The 5S variant of the ''Archer'', built out of Defiance Industries' massive [[Hesperus II]] complex in [[3050]], was the official variant for the [[Armed Forces of the Federated Commonwealth]].  The 5S upgraded the engine to an [[Edasich Motors 280]] [[XL Engine]], cutting the engine's weight in half while retaining the same speed profile. The 5S also reduced the LRM-20 launchers to LRM-15s. This saved weight was used to add two [[Coventry T4H]] [[Streak SRM-2]] launchers, one in each arm and fed by two tons of reloads in the side torsos. They also upgraded the four medium lasers to [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s. Finally, the 'Mech carried a [[Doering Electronics Glowworm]] [[Narc Missile Beacon]] launcher in its left torso along with one ton of ammo.  This allowed the ''Archer'' to tag enemy units with a beacon so that friendly 'Mechs could more easily hit the unit with their own missile weapons. All of the ammunition carried by the 5S was protected by CASE.<ref name=TRO3050/>  BV (1.0) = 1,122{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,353<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 150</ref>
  
*;ARC-5W : The 5W is an upgrade of the 2W variant, produced at [[Alarion]] in an orbital 'Mech repair facility which was expanded into a Mech assembly line. The 'Mech has been upgraded with an [[XL Engine]] to save weight and the 'Mech uses [[double heat sink]]s for greater heat dissipation. The 'Mech is armed with two LRM-20 and two SRM-4 launchers and carries a Narc Missile Beacon to allow it to designate 'Mechs for targeting by friendly units with missile launchers. BV (1.0) = 1,128{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,337<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 151</ref>
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*;ARC-5W : The 5W was an upgrade of the 2W variant, and was produced for the Wolf's Dragoons by Bowie Industries at [[Alarion]]. This was done in an orbital 'Mech repair facility which was converted into a 'Mech assembly line. Introduced in [[3050]], the 'Mech was upgraded with an XL Engine to save weight and used ten double heat sinks for greater heat dissipation. It retained the two LRM-20 launchers but replaced all other weaponry with one [[TharHes Blue]] SRM-4 launchers in each arm and a Doering Electronics Glowworm Narc Missile Beacon launcher in the center torso.  The 5W was supplied with four tons of LRM reloads, two tons of SRM reloads, and two tons of Narc reloads, all carried in the CASE-protected side torsos.<ref name=TRO3050/> BV (1.0) = 1,128{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,337<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 151</ref>
  
*;ARC-6S : The 6S variant of the ''Archer'' is built with a new [[Light Fusion Engine]], which weighs three quarters of the weight of the original engine. The 'Mech carries two LRM 20 launchers mated to [[Artemis IV]] fire control systems and two Streak SRM-2 launchers as well as two Medium Lasers for close combat. As a defensive measure, the 'Mech has an [[ER Small Laser]] mounted in the rear of its head for added protection. The variant carries six tons of ammo for the LRM and two tons for the SRM, all of which are protected in CASE. BV (1.0) = 1,480{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,694<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 152</ref>
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*;ARC-6S : The 6S variant of the ''Archer'' was built in [[3067]] by Bowie Industries using a new [[Light Fusion Engine]], which weighed three quarters of the mass of the original engine. The 'Mech carried two LRM-20 launchers linked to an Artemis IV fire control system, two Streak SRM-2 launchers, and two medium Lasers for close combat. As a defensive measure, the 'Mech had an [[ER Small Laser]] mounted in the rear of its head. The variant carried six tons of ammo for the LRM and two tons for the SRM, all of which were protected by CASE.<ref name=TROPP/> BV (1.0) = 1,480{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,694<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 152</ref>
  
*;ARC-6W : The 6W is a [[Periphery]] upgrade of the ''Archer'' built using older technologies with one major difference. The 'Mech has four Medium Lasers, all in arm mounts, and carries eight [[Rocket Launcher 20]]s and two [[Rocket Launcher 10]]s, giving it a powerful one-shot capability or it can use each Rocket Launcher rack as a single shot over an extended period. BV (1.0) = 1,239{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,405<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 153 </ref>
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*;ARC-6W : The 6W was a [[Periphery]] modification of the ''Archer'' built by VMI out of [[New Vandenberg]], which used older rather than newer technology. This variant carried its four medium lasers in its arms and mounted eight [[Rocket Launcher 20]]s and two [[Rocket Launcher 10]]s.  These weapons gave it a powerful [[Alpha strike (Tactic)|one-shot capability]] or could be used one at a time over an extended period. BV (1.0) = 1,239{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,405<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 153 </ref>
  
*;ARC-7L : Built by the [[Capellan Confederation]], the 7L variant of the ''Archer'' incorporates the new [[Stealth Armor]] and a Guardian ECM Suite for protection against enemy electronics in addition to making the ''Archer'' harder to target. The 'Mech carries twelve and a half tons of Stealth Armor and is armed with two LRM-20 launchers and two [[ER Medium Laser]]s. The trade-off for this massive upgrade is the fact that the 'Mechs top speed has been reduced to 54 km/h. In an attempt to compensate for this, the 'Mech has had three [[jump jet]]s mounted, making it capable of jumping up to ninety meters. BV (1.0) = 1,612{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,920<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 154</ref>
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*;ARC-7L : Built for the [[Capellan Confederation]] by Earthwerks in [[3067]], the 7L variant of the ''Archer'' incorporated new [[Stealth Armor]] and a [[Guardian ECM Suite]] for protection against enemy electronics in addition to making the ''Archer'' harder to target. The 'Mech carried twelve and a half tons of Stealth Armor and was armed with two LRM-20 launchers and two [[ER Medium Laser]]s. The trade-off for this massive upgrade was that the 'Mech's top speed was reduced to 54 km/h. In an attempt to compensate for this, the 'Mech also had three [[jump jet]]s mounted, making it capable of jumping up to ninety meters at a time. The 7L was slated to enter the [[Capellan Confederation Armed Forces]]' new Shadow Lances.<ref name=TROPP/>  BV (1.0) = 1,612{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,920<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 154</ref>
  
*;ARC-7S : The ''Archer'' 7S is an upgrade of the 6S model that uses Durallex Guardian [[Heavy Ferro-Fibrous]] armor with [[CASE]] in place of the [[Endo Steel]] structure used on the 6S. The 7S has two LRM-20 launchers with Artemis IV for increased missile accuracy. For close range defense, the 'Mech has a Diverse Optics [[ER Medium Laser]] and a rear facing Magna 200P [[Small Pulse Laser]] in addition to the pair of Hovertec Streak SRM-2 launchers. BV (2.0) = 1,658<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 155</ref>  
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*;ARC-7S : The ''Archer'' 7S was an upgrade of the 6S model, and was introduced in [[3070]]. It used Durallex Guardian [[Heavy Ferro-Fibrous]] armor with CASE in place of the Endo Steel structure used on the 6S. The 7S had two LRM-20 launchers with Artemis IV for increased missile accuracy and, for close range defense, carried a Diverse Optics [[ER Medium Laser]] and a rear facing Magna 200P [[Small Pulse Laser]] in addition to the pair of Hovertec Streak SRM-2 launchers. BV (2.0) = 1,658<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 155</ref>  
  
*;ARC-8M : The 8M variant of the ''Archer'' is built on an [[Endo Steel]] chassis and mixes elements of several past variants. The 'Mech is armed with two LRM-15 launchers with [[Artemis IV]] fire control systems and an [[ER Large Laser]] for long-range combat. It also mounts three [[ER Medium Laser]]s for close range support. This makes the 8M effective at all ranges and gives it both long-range direct and indirect capabilities. BV (1.0) = 1,377{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,759<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 156</ref>
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*;ARC-8M : The 8M variant of the ''Archer'' was built on an Endo Steel chassis and mixed elements of several past variants. Introduced in [[3067]] by Earthwerks for the [[Word of Blake Militia]], this variant was armed with two [[Delta Dart]] LRM-15 launchers linked to Artemis IV fire control systems in either side torso and an [[Diverse Optics Sunbeam]] [[ER Large Laser]] in the center torso for long-range combat. It also mounted three [[Diverse Optics Sunfire]] [[ER Medium Laser]]s for short ranged support, one in each arm and the third in its head. This made the 8M effective at all ranges and gave it both long-range direct and indirect capabilities. The 8M was protected by thirteen and a half tons of Maximilian 100 standard armor which was better slopped in order to deflect weapons fire more easily. It carried twelve double heat sinks, and had a similar speed profile to the original ''Archer''.  Its upper body traversing assembly was improved over the original to better protect its hip actuators and its feet were redesigned to make it a more stable firing platform, whether standing or on the move. Four tons of LRM reloads were split between the side torsos and were protected by CASE.<ref name=TROPP/> BV (1.0) = 1,377{{cn}}, BV (2.0) = 1,759<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 156</ref>
  
*;ARC-9K : The ''Archer'' 9K carries as its primary weapons four new [[MML-5]] launchers that are capable of firing both LRM and SRM ammunition. These give the 'Mech a great deal of tactical flexibility. For long range direct fire capabilities, the 'Mech has three [[Light PPC]]s and also has a [[C3 Slave]] that allows the 'Mech to share targeting data with friendly units. BV (2.0) = 1,391<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 157</ref>
+
*;ARC-9K : The ''Archer'' 9K, introduced in [[3071]], carried four new [[MML-5]] launchers that were capable of firing both [[LRM]] and [[SRM]] ammunition. These gave the 'Mech a great deal of tactical flexibility. For long range direct fire capabilities, the 'Mech had three [[Light PPC]]s and a [[C3 Slave]] that allowed the 'Mech to share targeting data with friendly units. BV (2.0) = 1,391<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 157</ref>
  
*;ARC-9KC : This ''Archer'' is based on the 9K. It retains the four MML-5 launchers and two of the three Light PPCs of the earlier design, but replaces the third Light PPC and C3 Slave with a [[C3 Boosted Slave]] and ER Medium Laser. BV (2.0) = 1,361<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 149</ref>
+
*;ARC-9KC : This ''Archer'' variant, based on the 9K, was introduced during the [[Dark Ages]]. It retained the four MML-5 launchers and two of the three Light PPCs of the earlier design, but replaced the third Light PPC and C3 Slave with a [[C3 Boosted Slave]] and an ER medium laser. BV (2.0) = 1,361<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 149</ref>
  
*;ARC-9M : This variant uses a 210 [[Light Engine]], dropping the top speed to 54 km/h, but five [[Improved Jump Jet]]s compensate for this lack of speed. The standard weapons have been replaced by an LRM-15 with Artemis IV FCS and an ER Medium Laser in each torso, while a [[Light PPC]] is in each arm. Eleven tons of [[Light Ferro-Fibrous]] armor and [[CASE]] protect the 'Mech. BV (2.0) = 1,811<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 257</ref>
+
*;ARC-9M : This variant used a [[Defiance 210 Light|Defiance 210]] [[Light Engine]], which dropped the top speed to 54 km/h, but five [[Improved Jump Jet]]s were added to compensate for this lack of speed. Built in [[3076]], the standard weapons were replaced by a Delta Dart LRM-15 with Artemis IV FCS and an Diverse Optics ER Medium Laser in each torso, and a [[Defiance 250]] Light PPC was mounted in each arm. Eleven tons of [[Light Ferro-Fibrous]] armor and CASE protected the 'Mech. BV (2.0) = 1,811<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 257</ref>
  
*;ARC-9W : Used by the [[Word of Blake]]'s [[Protectorate Militia]], this ''Archer'' variant carries a pair of ER Large Lasers and Artemis IV enhanced LRM-15 launchers. It has a maximum speed of 58km/h. For protection, the 9W uses an [[Experimental Technology|experimental]] [[Angel ECM Suite]] and [[Void Signature System]].<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 256</ref> BV (2.0) = 2,004<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 160</ref>
+
*;ARC-9W : Used by the [[Word of Blake]]'s [[Protectorate Militia]] in [[3078]], this ''Archer'' variant carried a pair of ER Large Lasers and Artemis IV-enhanced LRM-15 launchers, with a maximum speed of 58km/h. For protection, the 9W used an [[Experimental Technology|experimental]] [[Angel ECM Suite]] and [[Void Signature System]].<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 256</ref> BV (2.0) = 2,004<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 160</ref>
  
 
===Custom Variants===
 
===Custom Variants===
* ''Archer Wolf'' - This variant of the ''Archer'' carries Clan-spec equipment. The arms mount ER Large Lasers, while a pair of Small Pulse Lasers cover the rear. The LRM-20s are enhanced with Artemis IV Fire Control Systems, and an [[ECM Suite]] and [[AMS]] protect against incoming fire. CASE is in each torso. Fifteen double heat sinks keep the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 2,365<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 162</ref>
+
*;''ARC-4M'' Ismail : Personal 'Mech of [[Lieutenant]] James Ismail of the [[Lexington Combat Group]]'s [[180th Dragoon Combat Group]] has been refit for close combat. This is achieved by dropping both the Artemis-enhanced LRM-20s for eight SRM-4 launchers, four per torso, while the two rear facing medium lasers are also removed for two forward facing Medium Pulse Lasers.<ref name=CMM-51>''Combat Manual: Mercenaries'', p. 53 "Lexington Combat Group - Lieutenant James Ismail"</ref>
 +
*;''Archer Wolf'' : This variant of the ''Archer'' carried Clan-spec equipment. The arms mounted [[ER Large Laser]]s, while a pair of [[Small Pulse Laser]]s covered the rear. The LRM-20s were enhanced with Artemis IV Fire Control Systems, and an [[ECM Suite]] and [[AMS]] protected against incoming fire. CASE was carried in each side torso and fifteen double heat sinks kept the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 2,365<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 162</ref>
 +
 
 +
===Apocryphal Variants===
 +
{{ApocryphalContentStart}}
 +
''From [[MechWarrior Online]]:''
 +
*;ARC-T ''Tempest'' : Named for Morgan Kell's pirate lover, MechWarrior Online's ''Archer'' [[Hero 'Mech]] plays to the fan rumors that Kell's Phantom Mech ability was actually just LosTech he recovered from the Periphery before his return in [[3006]]. Identical to the standard ARC-2R in most respects, the addition on an Endo Steel frame frees up the weight for a Guardian ECM suite and two extra heat sinks, all of which are upgraded to double heat sinks boosting the ''Tempest'''s endurance.<ref name=MWO>''MechWarrior Online'' Archer Sale Page</ref>
 +
{{ApocryphalContentEnd}}
  
 
==Notable Pilots==
 
==Notable Pilots==
*[[Jaime Wolf]]: It is implied from conjecture that he initially piloted his unit's trademark -2W variant. He lost one such vehicle on [[Barlow's End]] in [[3026]] but continued to pilot ''Archers'' (presumably advanced technology versions). He was found dead in his ''Archer'' near the end of the [[Battle of Harlech City]] on October 18, 3067.
+
*[[Jaime Wolf]]: It is implied from conjecture that he initially piloted his unit's trademark 2W variant. He lost one such vehicle on [[Barlow's End]] in [[3026]] but continued to pilot ''Archers'' (presumably advanced technology versions). He was found dead in his ''Archer'' near the end of the [[Battle of Harlech City]] on October 18, 3067.
  
 
*[[Morgan Kell]]: The commander of the [[Kell Hounds]] became famous in the legendary [[Phantom 'Mech]] incident.
 
*[[Morgan Kell]]: The commander of the [[Kell Hounds]] became famous in the legendary [[Phantom 'Mech]] incident.
Line 79: Line 93:
 
*[[Alexander Carlyle]], son of [[Grayson Carlyle]] of the [[Gray Death Legion]], piloted an ''Archer'' during the [[Skye Rebellion]] of [[3056]].<ref>''[[Blood of Heroes]]''</ref>
 
*[[Alexander Carlyle]], son of [[Grayson Carlyle]] of the [[Gray Death Legion]], piloted an ''Archer'' during the [[Skye Rebellion]] of [[3056]].<ref>''[[Blood of Heroes]]''</ref>
  
==BattleMech Gallery==
+
*[[Cranston Snord]] was known to pilot an ''Archer'' before swapping to a ''[[Bombardier]]'' following the [[Fourth Succession War]].
 +
 
 +
==Design Quirks==
 +
The ''Archer'' has the following [[Design Quirk]]:<ref>[[BattleMech Manual]], p. 90 Battlemech Quirk Table - Archer Entry.</ref>
 +
*[[Battlefists]]
 +
*[[Command BattleMech|Command Mech]]
 +
*[[Design Quirks|Ubiquitous]]
 +
 
 +
The ''ARC-1A Archer'' variant is subject to the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref name=XTROPv5ARC/>
 +
* [[Easy to Maintain]]
 +
* [[Extended Torso Twist]]
 +
* [[Difficult Ejection]]
 +
* [[Obsolete]] (2485)
 +
* [[Stable]]
 +
 
 +
==Notes==
 +
* The introduction date for the ARC-2R ''Archer'' is listed as 2474 in a couple early sources such as TRO:3025 (Original) and TRO:3039 where-as XTRO:Primitives V lists the production date as 2475.
 +
* In German products the unit's proper name was perfectly translated to '''Schütze'''. The model code was accordingly changed to '''SHT-2Z'''.
 +
 
 +
==Gallery==
 
<gallery>
 
<gallery>
Image:Arc-8m archer.jpg|ARC-8M ''Archer''
+
Image:3025_archer.jpg|Original [[Unseen]] ARC-2R ''Archer'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|TRO:3025]]''|alt=ARC-2R
Image:ARC-9M Archer.jpg|ARC-9M ''Archer''
+
Image:ARC-Archer.png|ARC-4M ''Archer'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050|TRO:3050]]''|alt=ARC-4M
Image:Battle of Luthien (35).jpg|[[Morgan Kell]]'s ''Archer''
+
Image:Arc-6s archer.png|ARC-6S  ''Archer'' from ''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix|TRO:Phoenix]]''|alt=ARC-6S
File:Arc-7l archer.png|ARC-7L  ''Archer''
+
Image:Arc-6w archer.png|ARC-6W ‎ ''Archer'' from ''TRO:Phoenix''|alt=ARC-6W
File:Arc-6w archer.png|ARC-6W ‎ ''Archer''
+
Image:Arc-7l archer.png|ARC-7L  ''Archer'' from ''TRO:Phoenix''|alt=ARC-7L
File:Arc-6s archer.png|ARC-6S  ''Archer''
+
Image:Arc-8m archer.jpg|ARC-8M ''Archer'' from ''TRO:Phoenix''|alt=ARC-8M
File:ARC-Archer.png|ARC-2R ''Archer''
+
Image:ARC-9M Archer.jpg|ARC-9M ''Archer'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3085|TRO:3085]]''|alt=ARC-9M
File:Wolfpack.jpg|A Wolf's Dragoons ''Archer'' attacks another ''Archer''
+
Image:ArcherARC1-A.png|ARC-1A ''Archer'' from ''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Primitives, Volume 5|XTRO:Primitives V]]''|alt=ARC-1A
File:Archerrepair.jpg|An ''Archer'' undergoing repairs
+
Image:Archerrepair.jpg|An ''Archer'' undergoing repairs from ''[[BattleTech Compendium: The Rules of Warfare]]''|alt=An Archer undergoing repairs
 +
Image:Battle of Luthien (35).jpg|[[Morgan Kell]]'s ''Archer''during the [[Battle of Luthien (3052)|Battle of Luthien]] from ''[[Luthien (scenario pack)|Luthien]]''|alt=Morgan Kell's Archer
 +
Image:Wolfpack.jpg|An ''Archer'' of [[Wolf's Dragoons]] attacks another ''Archer'' from ''[[Wolf Pack]]'' novel|alt=Wolf Dragoons Archer attacks another Archer
 +
Image:MWO Archer.png|Model of an ''Archer'' from ''[[MechWarrior Online|MWO]]''|alt=MWO Archer
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
  
Line 97: Line 133:
 
==Bibliography==
 
==Bibliography==
 
*[http://www.battlecorps.com/BC2/news.html?article=327 ARC-7S ''Archer'' Technical Readout]
 
*[http://www.battlecorps.com/BC2/news.html?article=327 ARC-7S ''Archer'' Technical Readout]
 +
*''[[BattleMech Manual]]''
 +
*''[[Combat Manual: Mercenaries]]''
 +
*''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Primitives, Volume 5]]''
 +
*''[[Field Report 2765: Periphery]]''
 
*''[[Master Unit List]]''
 
*''[[Master Unit List]]''
 +
*[https://mwomercs.com/archer ''MechWarrior Online Archer'' Sale Page]
 +
*''[[Objectives: Lyran Alliance]]''
 
*''[[Record Sheets: 3025/3026]]''
 
*''[[Record Sheets: 3025/3026]]''
 
*''[[Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged]]''
 
*''[[Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged]]''
Line 103: Line 145:
 
*''[[Record Sheets: 3067]]''
 
*''[[Record Sheets: 3067]]''
 
*''[[Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix]]''
 
*''[[Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix]]''
 +
*''[[Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades]]''
 +
*''[[Record Sheets: Operation Klondike]]''
 
*''[[Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]''
 
*''[[Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]''
 
*''[[Technical Readout: 3025]]''
 
*''[[Technical Readout: 3025]]''
Line 110: Line 154:
 
*''[[The Battle for Twycross]]''
 
*''[[The Battle for Twycross]]''
 
*''[[Total Warfare Style Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]''
 
*''[[Total Warfare Style Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]''
*''[[Record Sheets: Operation Klondike]]''
 
 
*''[[Technical Readout: 3085]]''
 
*''[[Technical Readout: 3085]]''
*''[[Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades]]''
 
 
  
 +
[[Category:70 ton BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:BattleMechs]]
 +
[[Category:Boosted C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 +
[[Category:C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 +
[[Category:C3 Slave Equipped BattleMechs]]
 +
[[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Heavy BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Heavy BattleMechs]]
[[Category:70 ton BattleMechs]]
+
[[Category:Inner Sphere General BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Missile Boat BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Missile Boat BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Inner Sphere General BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:C3 Slave Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Unseen]]
 
 
[[Category:SLDF Royal BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:SLDF Royal BattleMechs]]
 +
[[Category:German renamed units]]

Revision as of 14:18, 2 July 2020

Archer
Archer
Production information
Manufacturer Bowie Industries [1]
Diplass BattleMechs[2]
Earthwerks Incorporated[3]
LexaTech Industries[4]
Vandenberg Mechanized Industries[3]
Defiance Industries[1]
Gorton, Kingsley & Thorpe Enterprises [3]
Production Year 2474[5][6]
Model ARC-2R
Class Heavy
Cost 6,384,974 C-bills
Technical specifications
'Mech type Inner Sphere BattleMech
Mass 70 tons
Chassis Earthwerk Archer
Armor Maximillian 100
Engine VOX 280
Communications System Neil 9000
Targeting Tracking System RCA Instatrac Mark XII
Heat Sinks 10
Speed 64.8 km/h
Armament
BV (1.0) 1,117
BV (2.0) 1,477[7]


Description

The origins of the Archer date back to 2458 when Earthwerks Incorporated debuted a prototype known as the ARC-1A Archer. The design was created at the request of Terran Hegemony's HAF for a new "heavy fire support BattleMech" and took nearly 9 years to finalize. This was in part due to the design team; a combination of former HAF MechWarriors, field technicians, and general officer consultants and the company's engineer team led by Supervising Engineer Linn Tommi squabbling over theoretical and practical issues. The complex engineering proposal brought before the HAF included complicated, hard-to-repair stabilization equipment and advanced, computer-slaved sensors, meant to make the Archer the most accurate BattleMech in existence. However, the final prototype abandoned these requirements in favor of a more sturdy, blocky, and heavily armored frame still familiar today. It was so successful that it remained the Hegemony standard for more than a decade and a half until advances in technology allowed Earthwerks to produce a more efficient model.[8]

Introduced in 2474, the ARC-2R Archer became one of the best-known and most widely-used BattleMechs available. A contemporary of 'Mechs such as the Thunderbolt and the Banshee, the Archer's primary role was fire support, though early in its combat career it was considered an assault 'Mech capable of long-range brawling, and it was used in a variety of other roles. More than 100,000 Archers were produced between its introduction and the start of the First Succession War, with tens of thousands of its variant models produced over the centuries. Though many were destroyed or dismantled for spare parts, they remained a common sight in the Great House armies, with six different factories producing new Archers throughout the Succession Wars.[3][9]

The recovery of the Helm Memory Core had a profound effect on the development of the Archer. New variants were produced which utilized rediscovered lostech, giving the venerable 'Mech a few new tricks to surprise its opponents. By the time of the Clan Invasion, most of the major manufacturers had switched over to building these new variants for the Free Worlds League, Federated Commonwealth, Free Rasalhague Republic, and Wolf's Dragoons; only Vandenberg Mechanized Industries continued to build original ARC-2R Archers for the Taurian Concordat.[10] Newer, more advanced variants of the Archer continued to be developed as technology progressed in the years since.[11]

Weapons and Equipment

The Archer's primary weapons were a pair of Doombud LRM-20 missile launchers with four tons of ammunition, enough for two minutes of continuous fire. The ammo was split between the side torsos. When the design was still relatively unknown, some Archer drivers were known to keep their missile bay doors closed in order to fool the enemy, but this trick has since lost its effect. For close combat situations, the Archer carries four Diverse Optics Type 18 Medium Lasers. Each arm is equipped with a laser, with the other two mounted on a centrally-located turret above the cockpit, giving them a clear field of fire to attack targets behind the 'Mech. Though not a particularly adept hand-to-hand combatant, the Archer's oversized battle fists serve it well in close combat and allow it to easily pilfer supplies when taking part in a raid.[3][9]

The Archer was well protected by thirteen tons of armor and had a cruising speed of 44.1 km/h. However, it suffered from a poor heat management system, with just ten heat sinks to remove waste heat; an Archer firing both LRM launchers and its lasers would quickly start to overheat. The Archer also suffered in part for being for being so common; most enemy pilots were very familiar with the design's capabilities, and how to exploit that to their advantage. The most unique feature of the Archer compared to other humanoid 'Mechs was its cockpit placement, located beneath the central torso. Although giving the MechWarrior a unique battlefield perspective, this placement didn't provide any additional protection as it sat below the torso armor belt, which shielded the Gyro and engine from enemy fire.[3][9]

Variants

  • ARC-1A 
    The original Archer prototype built for the Terran Hegemony in 2458 with Primitive Technology. It was slower than the successor ARC-2R variant with a top speed of 54 km/h with the inclusion of a 255 Primitive Engine. Its loadout was somewhat similar, with the frame housing a pair of LRM-20's and 4 tons of ammunition, but only mounted two Medium Lasers, one in each fully-articulated arm for close-in defense. The inclusion of large armored access panels in the 'Mech's rear made reloading the limited ammunition stores easier. It was also protected by 16 tons of Primitive Armor. At the time, it was praised for its reliability and ease of maintenance, although in combat produced far more excess heat than the machine could handle if all weapons were fired - a similar issue carried over to the later Archer.[8] BV (2.0) = 1,269[12]
  • ARC-2K 
    The 2K Archer was a modification built for the Draconis Combine in 2856, designed to increase its direct firepower capability and give it more staying power on the battlefield once it had run out of ammunition. The 'Mech replaced the LRM-20 launchers with two FarFire 15 LRM-15 launchers and removed all of the medium lasers along with some armor. They used this extra weight to add a Large Laser in each arm, and two heat sinks. Besides its use with Combine forces, this variant became common among the KungsArmé following its formation.[9] BV (1.0) = 977, BV (2.0) = 1,356[13]
  • ARC-2Rb 
    Equipped with Star League technology, the 2Rb variant of the Archer was built for SLDF Royal units starting in 2752. Built on an Endo Steel internal structure, this variant dropped one of the rear-firing medium lasers and one ton of ammunition to equip the LRM-20s with Artemis IV fire control systems and CASE. The 2Rb also used ten double heat sinks to keep the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 1,705[14]
  • ARC-2S 
    The 2S was another modification made to allow the Archer to defend itself more easily against an enemy that managed to close range with it. Built for House Steiner in 2915, the 2S replaced the LRM-20 launchers with two LRM-15 launchers and used the saved weight to add two SRM-4 launchers, carried in either side torso along with one ton of ammunition per launcher, giving it additional short range firepower.[9] BV (1.0) = 997, BV (2.0) = 1,393[17]
  • ARC-2W 
    The 2W, introduced in 3010, was similar to the 2S model but increased its close range firepower in a different manner. Like the 2S, it mounted a pair of SRM-4 launchers but carried just one ton of ammo for them, and it retained the LRM-20 launchers. Instead the two rear firing medium lasers were removed and armor protection was reduced by three tons in order to make these modifications. This was the trademark subvariant used by the Wolf's Dragoons, which they produced in the assembly plant aboard their space station Hephaestos until its destruction in 3028. Note: It was once stated by Jaime Wolf that all of the Dragoons' Archers were of this variant, but this is unconfirmed. [18] BV (1.0) = 932, BV (2.0) = 1,338[19]
  • ARC-4M 
    An upgrade using rediscovered Star League technology, the 4M was built built on Calloway VI by Earthwerks in 3049 for the Free Worlds League. It used an Earthwerk Archer II Endo Steel chassis to free up weight for a number of improvements. It carried an additional half-ton of Maximillian 100 armor and utilized ten double heat sinks for added heat dissipation capabilities. The 'Mech also upgraded its twin Doombud LRM-20 launchers by adding Artemis IV fire control systems to the launchers and incorporated CASE to protect the four tons of missile ammo.[10] BV (1.0) = 1,539, BV (2.0) = 1,705[20]
  • ARC-5R 
    Built by the GKT Enterprise factory on Satalice for the Free Rasalhague Republic, the 5R was introduced in 3050 and bore similarities to the 2K model of the Archer. It carried a pair of FarFire LRM-15 launchers but mounted two Victory Nickel Alloy ER Large Lasers, one in either arm, in place of the medium lasers. It also linked Artemis IV fire control systems to the launchers and utilized twelve double heat sinks to improve waste heat dissipation. Despite being built around an Endo-Steel chassis, these improvements necessitated a decrease in armor protection by two tons.[10] BV (1.0) = 1,319[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,672[21]
  • ARC-5S 
    The 5S variant of the Archer, built out of Defiance Industries' massive Hesperus II complex in 3050, was the official variant for the Armed Forces of the Federated Commonwealth. The 5S upgraded the engine to an Edasich Motors 280 XL Engine, cutting the engine's weight in half while retaining the same speed profile. The 5S also reduced the LRM-20 launchers to LRM-15s. This saved weight was used to add two Coventry T4H Streak SRM-2 launchers, one in each arm and fed by two tons of reloads in the side torsos. They also upgraded the four medium lasers to Medium Pulse Lasers. Finally, the 'Mech carried a Doering Electronics Glowworm Narc Missile Beacon launcher in its left torso along with one ton of ammo. This allowed the Archer to tag enemy units with a beacon so that friendly 'Mechs could more easily hit the unit with their own missile weapons. All of the ammunition carried by the 5S was protected by CASE.[10] BV (1.0) = 1,122[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,353[22]
  • ARC-5W 
    The 5W was an upgrade of the 2W variant, and was produced for the Wolf's Dragoons by Bowie Industries at Alarion. This was done in an orbital 'Mech repair facility which was converted into a 'Mech assembly line. Introduced in 3050, the 'Mech was upgraded with an XL Engine to save weight and used ten double heat sinks for greater heat dissipation. It retained the two LRM-20 launchers but replaced all other weaponry with one TharHes Blue SRM-4 launchers in each arm and a Doering Electronics Glowworm Narc Missile Beacon launcher in the center torso. The 5W was supplied with four tons of LRM reloads, two tons of SRM reloads, and two tons of Narc reloads, all carried in the CASE-protected side torsos.[10] BV (1.0) = 1,128[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,337[23]
  • ARC-6S 
    The 6S variant of the Archer was built in 3067 by Bowie Industries using a new Light Fusion Engine, which weighed three quarters of the mass of the original engine. The 'Mech carried two LRM-20 launchers linked to an Artemis IV fire control system, two Streak SRM-2 launchers, and two medium Lasers for close combat. As a defensive measure, the 'Mech had an ER Small Laser mounted in the rear of its head. The variant carried six tons of ammo for the LRM and two tons for the SRM, all of which were protected by CASE.[11] BV (1.0) = 1,480[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,694[24]
  • ARC-7L 
    Built for the Capellan Confederation by Earthwerks in 3067, the 7L variant of the Archer incorporated new Stealth Armor and a Guardian ECM Suite for protection against enemy electronics in addition to making the Archer harder to target. The 'Mech carried twelve and a half tons of Stealth Armor and was armed with two LRM-20 launchers and two ER Medium Lasers. The trade-off for this massive upgrade was that the 'Mech's top speed was reduced to 54 km/h. In an attempt to compensate for this, the 'Mech also had three jump jets mounted, making it capable of jumping up to ninety meters at a time. The 7L was slated to enter the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces' new Shadow Lances.[11] BV (1.0) = 1,612[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,920[26]
  • ARC-7S 
    The Archer 7S was an upgrade of the 6S model, and was introduced in 3070. It used Durallex Guardian Heavy Ferro-Fibrous armor with CASE in place of the Endo Steel structure used on the 6S. The 7S had two LRM-20 launchers with Artemis IV for increased missile accuracy and, for close range defense, carried a Diverse Optics ER Medium Laser and a rear facing Magna 200P Small Pulse Laser in addition to the pair of Hovertec Streak SRM-2 launchers. BV (2.0) = 1,658[27]
  • ARC-8M 
    The 8M variant of the Archer was built on an Endo Steel chassis and mixed elements of several past variants. Introduced in 3067 by Earthwerks for the Word of Blake Militia, this variant was armed with two Delta Dart LRM-15 launchers linked to Artemis IV fire control systems in either side torso and an Diverse Optics Sunbeam ER Large Laser in the center torso for long-range combat. It also mounted three Diverse Optics Sunfire ER Medium Lasers for short ranged support, one in each arm and the third in its head. This made the 8M effective at all ranges and gave it both long-range direct and indirect capabilities. The 8M was protected by thirteen and a half tons of Maximilian 100 standard armor which was better slopped in order to deflect weapons fire more easily. It carried twelve double heat sinks, and had a similar speed profile to the original Archer. Its upper body traversing assembly was improved over the original to better protect its hip actuators and its feet were redesigned to make it a more stable firing platform, whether standing or on the move. Four tons of LRM reloads were split between the side torsos and were protected by CASE.[11] BV (1.0) = 1,377[citation needed], BV (2.0) = 1,759[28]
  • ARC-9K 
    The Archer 9K, introduced in 3071, carried four new MML-5 launchers that were capable of firing both LRM and SRM ammunition. These gave the 'Mech a great deal of tactical flexibility. For long range direct fire capabilities, the 'Mech had three Light PPCs and a C3 Slave that allowed the 'Mech to share targeting data with friendly units. BV (2.0) = 1,391[29]
  • ARC-9KC 
    This Archer variant, based on the 9K, was introduced during the Dark Ages. It retained the four MML-5 launchers and two of the three Light PPCs of the earlier design, but replaced the third Light PPC and C3 Slave with a C3 Boosted Slave and an ER medium laser. BV (2.0) = 1,361[30]
  • ARC-9M 
    This variant used a Defiance 210 Light Engine, which dropped the top speed to 54 km/h, but five Improved Jump Jets were added to compensate for this lack of speed. Built in 3076, the standard weapons were replaced by a Delta Dart LRM-15 with Artemis IV FCS and an Diverse Optics ER Medium Laser in each torso, and a Defiance 250 Light PPC was mounted in each arm. Eleven tons of Light Ferro-Fibrous armor and CASE protected the 'Mech. BV (2.0) = 1,811[31]

Custom Variants

  • ARC-4M Ismail 
    Personal 'Mech of Lieutenant James Ismail of the Lexington Combat Group's 180th Dragoon Combat Group has been refit for close combat. This is achieved by dropping both the Artemis-enhanced LRM-20s for eight SRM-4 launchers, four per torso, while the two rear facing medium lasers are also removed for two forward facing Medium Pulse Lasers.[34]
    Archer Wolf 
    This variant of the Archer carried Clan-spec equipment. The arms mounted ER Large Lasers, while a pair of Small Pulse Lasers covered the rear. The LRM-20s were enhanced with Artemis IV Fire Control Systems, and an ECM Suite and AMS protected against incoming fire. CASE was carried in each side torso and fifteen double heat sinks kept the 'Mech cool. BV (2.0) = 2,365[35]

Apocryphal Variants

Apocryphal Content Starts

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

From MechWarrior Online:

  • ARC-T Tempest 
    Named for Morgan Kell's pirate lover, MechWarrior Online's Archer Hero 'Mech plays to the fan rumors that Kell's Phantom Mech ability was actually just LosTech he recovered from the Periphery before his return in 3006. Identical to the standard ARC-2R in most respects, the addition on an Endo Steel frame frees up the weight for a Guardian ECM suite and two extra heat sinks, all of which are upgraded to double heat sinks boosting the Tempest's endurance.[36]

Apocryphal Content Ends

Notable Pilots

  • Jaime Wolf: It is implied from conjecture that he initially piloted his unit's trademark 2W variant. He lost one such vehicle on Barlow's End in 3026 but continued to pilot Archers (presumably advanced technology versions). He was found dead in his Archer near the end of the Battle of Harlech City on October 18, 3067.

Design Quirks

The Archer has the following Design Quirk:[38]

The ARC-1A Archer variant is subject to the following Design Quirks:[8]

Notes

  • The introduction date for the ARC-2R Archer is listed as 2474 in a couple early sources such as TRO:3025 (Original) and TRO:3039 where-as XTRO:Primitives V lists the production date as 2475.
  • In German products the unit's proper name was perfectly translated to Schütze. The model code was accordingly changed to SHT-2Z.

Gallery

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 Objectives: Lyran Alliance, p.29
  2. Field Report 2765: Periphery, p. 11, "Infrastructural Integrity"
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 3.3 3.4 3.5 Technical Readout: 3039, p.296
  4. Technical Readout: 3085, p. 256
  5. Era Digest: Age of War, p. 11 and 22, state a primitive technology Archer was introduced in 2458
  6. [http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/74/archer-arc-2r MUL online date for
  7. Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 499
  8. 8.0 8.1 8.2 Experimental Technical Readout: Primitives, Volume 5, p. 6 "ARC-1A Archer 'Mech Profile"
  9. 9.0 9.1 9.2 9.3 9.4 Technical Readout: 3025, p. 92
  10. 10.0 10.1 10.2 10.3 10.4 Technical Readout: 3050, p. 162
  11. 11.0 11.1 11.2 11.3 Technical Readout: Project Phoenix, p. 44
  12. MUL Profile for ARC-1A includes BV2.
  13. Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 482
  14. Record Sheets: Operation Klondike, p. 46
  15. The Battle for Twycross, p. 49
  16. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 161
  17. Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 484
  18. Wolves on the Border
  19. Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged, p. 485
  20. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 148
  21. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 149
  22. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 150
  23. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 151
  24. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 152
  25. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 153
  26. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 154
  27. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 155
  28. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 156
  29. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 157
  30. Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades, p. 149
  31. Technical Readout: 3085, p. 257
  32. Technical Readout: 3085, p. 256
  33. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 160
  34. Combat Manual: Mercenaries, p. 53 "Lexington Combat Group - Lieutenant James Ismail"
  35. Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix, p. 162
  36. MechWarrior Online Archer Sale Page
  37. Blood of Heroes
  38. BattleMech Manual, p. 90 Battlemech Quirk Table - Archer Entry.

Bibliography