Difference between revisions of "Champion"

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{{InfoBoxBattleMech
 
{{InfoBoxBattleMech
 
|image=Champion.jpg
 
|image=Champion.jpg
−
|name=Champion
+
|name=''Champion''
 
|manufacturer=[[Bergan Industries]]
 
|manufacturer=[[Bergan Industries]]
 
|production year=2602
 
|production year=2602
 
|year reference=<ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/548/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>
 
|year reference=<ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/548/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>
 
|model=CHP-1N
 
|model=CHP-1N
−
|class=Heavy
 
 
|cost= 5,754,400 C-bills
 
|cost= 5,754,400 C-bills
 
|Tech Base = Inner Sphere
 
|Tech Base = Inner Sphere
 
|mech type =BattleMech
 
|mech type =BattleMech
 
|mass=60
 
|mass=60
−
|chassis=Bergan XI
+
|chassis=[[Bergan XI]]
−
|armor=Star Slab/2 [[Ferro-Fibrous]]
+
|armor=[[Star Slab/2 Ferro-Fibrous]]
 
|engine=[[Vlar 300]]
 
|engine=[[Vlar 300]]
 
|comsys=[[Garret T-11 C]]
 
|comsys=[[Garret T-11 C]]
−
|T&T=[[Mercury-IV w/Artemis IV FCS]]
+
|T&T=[[Mercury-IV]] with [[Artemis IV FCS]]
 
|heat sinks=10
 
|heat sinks=10
 
|speed=86.4
 
|speed=86.4
 
|armament=
 
|armament=
−
*2x [[Medium Laser]]s
+
* 2x [[medium laser]]s
 
*2x [[Small Laser]]s
 
*2x [[Small Laser]]s
−
*1x [[LB-X Autocannon/10]]
+
*1x [[LB 10-X Autocannon]]
 
*1x [[SRM-6]] w/ [[Artemis IV]]
 
*1x [[SRM-6]] w/ [[Artemis IV]]
 
|BV (1.0)=942
 
|BV (1.0)=942
Line 28: Line 27:
  
 
==Description==
 
==Description==
−
The '''''Champion''''' debuted in [[Introduction Year::2602]] from [[Bergan Industries]], their second-ever [[BattleMech]] after the highly-successful ''[[Locust]]'', as a generalist combat 'Mech with a focus on heavy reconnaissance and fast strike capabilities.  While definitely faster and more maneuverable than other [[heavy 'Mech]]s, it was criticized by many for being too large, underarmed and underarmored.  Indeed [[Earthwerks Incorporated]] had a competing bid, a modified version of their 55-ton ''[[Griffin]]'', which had the same performance capabilities ''and'' cost less.  In the end Bergan won the lobbying wars and an initial order of 200 ''Champions'' were produced for the [[Star League Defense Force]].<ref name=TRO2750>''Technical Readout: 2750'', p. 34-35</ref><ref name=TRO3025r>''Technical Readout: 3025 Revised'', p. 70-71</ref>
+
The '''''Champion''''' debuted in [[Introduction Year::2602]] from [[Bergan Industries]], their second-ever [[BattleMech]] after the highly-successful ''[[Locust]]'', as a generalist combat 'Mech with a focus on heavy reconnaissance and fast strike capabilities.  While definitely faster and more maneuverable than other [[heavy 'Mech]]s, it was criticized by many for being too large, underarmed, and underarmored.  Indeed [[Earthwerks Incorporated]] had a competing bid, a modified version of their 55-ton ''[[Griffin]]'', which had the same performance capabilities ''and'' cost less.  In the end Bergan won the lobbying wars and an initial order of 200 ''Champions'' were produced for the [[Star League Defense Force]].<ref name=TRO2750>''Technical Readout: 2750'', p. 34-35</ref><ref name=TRO3025r>''Technical Readout: 3025 Revised'', p. 70-71</ref>
  
−
Despite its serious flaws the ''Champion'' was one of the most popular 'Mechs with the SLDF: in a era mostly marked by [[Hidden Wars|small skirmishes and duels]] where tactical positioning was key, its swiftness was sufficient enough for many pilots.  It served in many of the SLDF's independent BattleMech regiments, and when newer designs began to outpace it the 'Mech was sold to the Star League's member states.  Unfortunately Bergen's [[New Earth]] factory was destroyed in [[2776]] during the [[Amaris Civil War]], and in the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]] that followed the ''Champion'' suffered heavy losses.  Eventually the loss of the advanced technology which went into making the ''Champion'' forced many surviving 'Mechs to be refitted with lesser components.  Towards the end of the Succession Wars a few ''Champions'' could still be found in the arsenals of the [[Great Houses]], with the [[Capellan Confederation]] just barely fielding the most followed by the [[Lyran Commonwealth]].<ref name=TRO3039>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 262-263</ref><ref name=TRO3050u/>
+
Despite its serious flaws the ''Champion'' was one of the most popular 'Mechs with the SLDF: in an era mostly marked by [[Hidden Wars|small skirmishes and duels]] where tactical positioning was key, its swiftness was sufficient enough for many pilots.  It served in many of the SLDF's independent BattleMech regiments, and when newer designs began to outpace it the 'Mech was sold to the Star League's member states.  Unfortunately Bergan's [[New Earth]] factory was destroyed in [[2776]] during the [[Amaris Civil War]], and in the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]] that followed the ''Champion'' suffered heavy losses.  Eventually the loss of the advanced technology which went into making the ''Champion'' forced many surviving 'Mechs to be refitted with lesser components.  Towards the end of the Succession Wars a few ''Champions'' could still be found in the arsenals of the [[Great Houses]], with the [[Capellan Confederation]] just barely fielding the most followed by the [[Lyran Commonwealth]].<ref name=TRO3039>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 262-263</ref><ref name=TRO3050u/>
  
−
[[ComStar]] was able to maintain a number of original ''Champions'' in their secret stockpiles which were later used to outfit the [[Com Guards]] and the [[Clans]] maintained the aging design for their garrison forces, which they brought along during the [[Clan Invasion]].  A number of ComStar ''Champions'' were upgraded prior to the pivotal [[Battle of Tukayyid]], among several designs which informally were known as [[Clanbuster]]s, and eventually production of original-model ''Champions'' was restarted at Bergen's New Earth facility in the late 3050s.  A new variant was eventually produced for ComStar and after the [[ComStar Schism]] the ''Champion'' could be found in the hands of the [[Word of Blake]].<ref name=TRO3050u/>
+
[[ComStar]] was able to maintain a number of original ''Champions'' in their secret stockpiles which were later used to outfit the [[Com Guards]] and the [[Clans]] maintained the aging design for their garrison forces, which they brought along during the [[Clan Invasion]].  A number of ComStar ''Champions'' were upgraded prior to the pivotal [[Battle of Tukayyid (3052)|Battle of Tukayyid]], among several designs which informally were known as [[Clanbuster]]s, and eventually production of original-model ''Champions'' was restarted at Bergan's New Earth facility in the late 3050s.  A new variant was eventually produced for ComStar and after the [[ComStar Schism]] the ''Champion'' could be found in the hands of the [[Word of Blake]].<ref name=TRO3050u/>
  
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
 
==Weapons and Equipment==
−
The armament on the ''Champion'' is considered by many to be feeble for its size.  A [[Lubalin Ballistics]] [[LB-X Autocannon/10]] with two tons of ammo is mounted in the right torso, while one [[Harpoon-6]] [[SRM-6]] Launcher mated to an [[Artemis IV Fire Control System]] with one ton of reloads is mounted in the left.  These are backed up by two [[Magna Mk II]] [[Medium Laser]]s in the left torso and two [[Martell]] [[Small Laser]]s in the center torso.  The excess heat produced by these weapons is barely kept in check through the use of ten single [[heat sinks]], a result of Bergen trying to keep costs low, while eight tons of [[Ferro-Fibrous]] armor provides meager protection.  The factor behind the ''Champion's'' survival is its massive 20-ton [[fusion engine]] which gives the 'Mech good speed and maneuverability.<ref name=TRO2750/>  
+
The armament on the ''Champion'' is considered by many to be feeble for its size.  A [[Lubalin Ballistics]] [[LB 10-X Autocannon]] with two tons of ammo is mounted in the right torso, while one [[Harpoon-6]] [[SRM-6]] Launcher mated to an [[Artemis IV Fire Control System]] with one ton of reloads is mounted in the left.  These are backed up by two [[Magna Mk II]] [[medium laser]]s in the left torso and two [[Martell]] [[Small Laser]]s in the center torso.  The excess heat produced by these weapons is barely kept in check through the use of ten single [[heat sinks]], a result of Bergan trying to keep costs low, while eight tons of [[ferro-fibrous]] armor provides meager protection.  The factor behind the ''Champion's'' survival is its massive 20-ton [[fusion engine]] which gives the 'Mech good speed and maneuverability.<ref name=TRO2750/>
  
 
==Variants==
 
==Variants==
−
*;CHP-1N2 : This unofficial but common field refit was first seen in [[2667]].  Given the poor heat management of the ''Champion'', many pilots made the difficult modification of swapping out the traditional heat sinks for [[double heat sink|double-strength]] ones.  Bergen never authorized this variant as an official factory refit, likely on account it would mean admitting something was wrong with the original design.<ref name=TRO3039/> BV (1.0)= ??, BV (2.0) = 1,233<ref name =MUL78>''Master Unit List: Battle Values'', p. 78</ref>
+
*;CHP-1N2 : This unofficial but common field refit was first seen in [[2667]].  Given the poor heat management of the ''Champion'', many pilots made the difficult modification of swapping out the traditional heat sinks for [[double heat sink|double-strength]] ones.  Bergan never authorized this variant as an official factory refit, likely on account it would mean admitting something was wrong with the original design.<ref name=TRO3039/> BV (1.0)= ??, BV (2.0) = 1,233<ref name =MUL78>''Master Unit List: Battle Values'', p. 78</ref>
  
−
*;CHP-1Nb : A variant reserved for [[SLDF Royal]] units, this ''Champion'' was introduced in [[2751]] and replaces all the standard weaponry with a [[Gauss Rifle]] and [[ER PPC]]. It also uses double heat sinks. BV (2.0) = 1,632<ref>''Record Sheets: Operation Klondike'', p. 43</ref>
+
*;CHP-1Nb : A variant reserved for [[SLDF Royal]] units, this ''Champion'' was introduced in [[2751]] and replaces all the standard weaponry with a [[Gauss rifle]] and [[ER PPC]]. It also uses double heat sinks. BV (2.0) = 1,632<ref>''Record Sheets: Operation Klondike'', p. 43</ref><ref name=HOKp160>''Historical: Operation Klondike'', p.160</ref>
  
−
*;CHP-2N : The 2N is a downgraded variant first spotted in [[2810]] that replaces [[lostech]] components with ones still available.  The advanced LB-X Autocannon is replaced with a standard [[Mydron Model B]] [[Autocannon/10]] and the Artemis IV FCS is removed. In addition, this variant replaces the Ferro-Fibrous armor with the same weight in standard armor, further reducing the overall armor protection on what is widely acknowledged as an already fragile 'Mech. BV (1.0) = 839, BV (2.0) = 1,116 <ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 136</ref>
+
*;CHP-1Nb2 : The original Royal variant with a standard PPC, upgraded once the ER PPC was available.<ref>[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/6765/champion-chp-1nb2 MUL entry for Champion CHP-1Nb2]</ref>
  
−
*;CHP-3N : One of the so-called "Clanbuster" variants developed in [[3052]] by ComStar in the lead-up to the Battle of Tukayyid, this variant is a major upgrade that replaces the standard fusion engine with a lighter but more vulnerable [[Fusion Engine - XL|Vlar 300 ExtraLight engine]], the heat sinks have been upgraded to double heat sinks and two [[Nightwind (Large Laser)|Nightwind]] [[Large Laser]]s, surplus from the Clanbuster upgrade of the ''[[Wyvern]]'', have been added to the 'Mech's unoccupied arms. <ref> ''Tukayyid'', p. 14</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,059<ref name=CO123>''Combat Operations'', p. 123</ref>, BV (2.0) = 1,400<ref name =MUL78/>
+
*;CHP-2N : The 2N is a downgraded variant first spotted in [[2810]] that replaces [[lostech]] components with ones still available.  The advanced LB-X Autocannon is replaced with a standard [[Mydron Model B]] [[Autocannon/10]] and the Artemis IV FCS is removed. In addition, this variant replaces the ferro-fibrous armor with the same weight in standard armor, further reducing the overall armor protection on what is widely acknowledged as an already fragile 'Mech. BV (1.0) = 839, BV (2.0) = 1,116 <ref>''Record Sheets: 3039'', p. 136</ref>
  
−
*;CHP-3P : The 3P is the newest variant of the ''Champion'', introduced in [[3061]]. The 'Mech's arsenal has been completely upgraded to modern standards with the complete removal of all of its weapons. In their place this version of the ''Champion'' carries four [[ER Medium Lasers]], one in each arm. An [[Ultra Autocannon/10]] replaces the LB-X Autocannon and the SRM-6 has been replaced by an [[improved Narc Missile Beacon]]. In addition, the ExtraLight engine used in the 3N has been retained and an [[improved C3 computer]] was added to allow the ''Champion'' to work as part of a 6-unit C3 network. BV (1.0) = 1,454 <ref name=CO123/><ref>''Record Sheets: Upgrades'', p. 101</ref>, BV (2.0) = 1,503<ref name =MUL78/>
+
*;CHP-3N : One of the so-called "Clanbuster" variants developed in [[3052]] by ComStar in the lead-up to the Battle of Tukayyid, this variant is a major upgrade that replaces the standard fusion engine with a lighter but more vulnerable [[Extralight fusion engine|Vlar 300 ExtraLight engine]], the heat sinks have been upgraded to double heat sinks and two [[Nightwind (Large Laser)|Nightwind]] [[Large Laser]]s, surplus from the Clanbuster upgrade of the ''[[Wyvern]]'', have been added to the 'Mech's unoccupied arms. <ref name="T(SP)p12+">''Tukayyid (scenario pack)'', pp. 12-17, "Com Guard Mechs"</ref> BV (1.0) = 1,059<ref name=CO123>''Combat Operations'', p. 123</ref>, BV (2.0) = 1,400<ref name =MUL78/>
  
−
*;''Champion'' C : This variant was built by the Clans using their advanced technology, although it differs little from the original.  Built in [[2867]] it uses an XL engine with the weight saved going into the addition of 5 [[jump jet]]s that enable the 'Mech to jump up to 150 meters at a time. The medium lasers were upgraded to [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s and a pair of [[ER Medium Laser]]s were added. The small lasers are also upgraded to [[Small Pulse Laser]]s. The rest of the weaponry is upgraded to Clan standards and the remaining tonnage went to additional armor.<ref name=TRO3050u/> BV (1.0) = ??, BV (2.0) = 2,191<ref name =MUL78/>
+
*; CHP-3P : The 3P is the newest variant of the ''Champion'', introduced in [[3061]]. The 'Mech's arsenal has been completely upgraded to modern standards with the complete removal of all of its weapons. In their place this version of the ''Champion'' carries four [[ER medium laser]]s, two in each arm. An [[Ultra Autocannon/10]] replaces the LB-X Autocannon and the SRM-6 has been replaced by an [[improved Narc Missile Beacon]]. In addition, the ExtraLight engine used in the 3N has been retained and an [[improved C3 computer]] was added to allow the ''Champion'' to work as part of a 6-unit C3 network. BV (1.0) = 1,454 <ref name=CO123/><ref>''Record Sheets: Upgrades'', p. 101</ref>, BV (2.0) = 1,503<ref name =MUL78/>
 +
 
 +
*; ''Champion'' C : This variant was built by the Clans using their advanced technology, although it differs little from the original.  Built in [[2867]] it uses an XL engine with the weight saved going into the addition of 5 [[jump jet]]s that enable the 'Mech to jump up to 150 meters at a time. The medium lasers were upgraded to [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s and a pair of ER medium lasers were added. The small lasers are also upgraded to [[Small Pulse Laser]]s. The rest of the weaponry is upgraded to Clan standards and the remaining tonnage went to additional armor.<ref name=TRO3050u/> BV (1.0) = ??, BV (2.0) = 2,191<ref name =MUL78/>
 +
 
 +
===Custom Variants===
 +
*;''Champion'' Irin: The personal 'Mech of [[Force Commander]] [[Pasi Irin]] assigned to the [[First Free Worlds Legionnaires]], this custom variant replaces the SRM-6 w/Artemis IV with a pair of [[Streak SRM-2]] and additional armor.<ref>''Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade'', p. 212 "CHP-1N Champion - Force Commander Pasi Irin"; Note that there is no MUL entry for this Mech nor BV. No stats have been shared for it</ref>
  
 
===Apocryphal Variants===
 
===Apocryphal Variants===
 
{{ApocryphalContentStart}}
 
{{ApocryphalContentStart}}
 
''From [[MechWarrior Online]]:''
 
''From [[MechWarrior Online]]:''
−
*;CHP-INV ''Invictus'' : The ''Champion'' [[Hero 'Mech]] is built around an [[Endo Steel]] frame and 300 rated XL engine, clad in [[Light Ferro-Fibrous]] armor. The  ''Invictus'' is armed with a Large Laser and [[Streak SRM-4]] in each arm, supported by a [[Streak SRM-6]] in each side torso. Four tons of [[Streak SRM]] reloads, four [[jump jet]]s and eleven double heat sinks give it surprising longevity and agility in battle.<ref name=MWO>''MechWarrior Online'' Champion Sale Page</ref>
+
 
 +
*; CHP-INV ''Invictus'' : The ''Champion'' [[Hero 'Mech]] is built around an [[Endo Steel]] frame and 300 rated XL engine, clad in [[Light Ferro-Fibrous]] armor. The  ''Invictus'' is armed with a Large Laser and [[Streak SRM-4]] in each arm, supported by a [[Streak SRM-6]] in each side torso. Four tons of [[Streak SRM]] reloads, four [[jump jet]]s and eleven double heat sinks give it surprising longevity and agility in battle.<ref name=MWO>''MechWarrior Online'' Champion Sale Page</ref>
 
{{ApocryphalContentEnd}}
 
{{ApocryphalContentEnd}}
 +
 +
==Design Quirks==
 +
* [[No/Minimal Arms]]<ref name=BTMp90>''BattleTech Manual'', p. 90, "BattleMech Quirk Table: Champion"</ref>
 +
 +
==Notable pilots==
 +
: See: [[:Category:Notable Champion Pilots]]
  
 
==Related Designs==
 
==Related Designs==
−
* [[Champion LAM]] - Using the bullet-nosed ''Champion'' as the basis for an attempt to create a heavy [[Land Air 'Mech]], Bergan Industries ultimately admitted defeat and the flawed concept was discontinued. <ref name=XTRO>''Experimental Technical Readout: Boondoggles'', p. 6, "CPN-1X1 Champion LAM"</ref>
+
* [[Champion LAM|''Champion'' LAM]] - Using the bullet-nosed ''Champion'' as the basis for an attempt to create a heavy [[Land-Air 'Mech]], Bergan Industries ultimately admitted defeat and the flawed concept was discontinued.<ref name=XTRO>''Experimental Technical Readout: Boondoggles'', p. 6, "CPN-1X1 Champion LAM"</ref>
  
 
==Gallery==
 
==Gallery==
 
<gallery>
 
<gallery>
−
Image:3050U Champion.jpg|CHP-1N ''Champion''
+
Champion.jpg|Original CHP-1N ''Champion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 2750|TRO:2750]]''
−
Image:CCG Counterstrike Champion.jpg|Side view of a CHP-1N ''Champion''
+
CHP-CHAMPION.png|CHP-2N ''Champion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3025 Revised|TRO:3025 Revised]]''
−
Image:CCG Crusade Champion.jpg|CHP-2N ''Champion'' in motion
+
CHP-2NCHAMPION.png|CHP-2N ''Champion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3039|TRO:3039]]''
−
Image:CHP-2NCHAMPION.png|CHP-2N ''Champion''
+
3050U Champion.jpg|CHP-1N ''Champion'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade|TRO:3050 Upgrade]]''
−
File:CHP-CHAMPION.png|Low-angle shot of a CHP-2N ''Champion''
+
Battle of Tukayyid (10).jpg|CHP-3N ''Champion'' during the [[Battle of Tukayyid (3052)|Battle of Tukayyid]] from ''[[Tukayyid (scenario pack)|Tukayyid]]''
−
File:Battle of Tukayyid (10).jpg|CHP-3N ''Champion''
+
CCG Counterstrike Champion.jpg|Side view of a CHP-1N ''Champion'' from ''[[BattleTech Trading Card Game|CCG]]''
−
File:MWO_Champion.png|''[[MechWarrior Online]]'' art of the ''Champion''
+
CCG Crusade Champion.jpg|CHP-2N ''Champion'' in motion from ''CCG''
 +
MWO_Champion.png|Model of a ''Champion'' from ''[[MechWarrior Online|MWO]]''
 
</gallery>
 
</gallery>
  
−
==Notable pilots==  
+
==Notes==
−
* [[Daniel Brewer]] - Count of Hesperus and Captain of [[Gray Death Legion]] piloted a Champion during the final battle with the legion, in Hesperus II.
+
* Author [[Blaine Lee Pardoe]] stated in a [https://web.archive.org/web/20221102192457/https://blainepardoe.wordpress.com/2018/08/16/out-of-the-archives-the-battlemechs-i-wrote-about-or-designed/ blog entry] that, according to his memory which he admitted could be wrong, the ''Champion'' was among the BattleMechs for which he wrote the original background as initially published in TRO:2750; for some of these he also designed the stats.
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
 
<references/>
 
<references/>
 +
 
==Bibliography==
 
==Bibliography==
−
*''[[Combat Operations]]''
+
<div class="desktop-3-col">
−
*''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Boondoggles]]''
+
* ''[[BattleMech Manual]]''
−
*''[[Master Unit List: Battle Values]]''
+
* ''[[Combat Operations]]''
−
*[https://mwomercs.com/champion MechWarrior Online - ''Champion'' Sale Page]
+
* ''[[Experimental Technical Readout: Boondoggles]]''
−
*''[[Record Sheets: 3025/3026]]''
+
* ''[[Master Unit List: Battle Values]]''
−
*''[[Record Sheets: 3039]]''
+
* [https://mwomercs.com/champion MechWarrior Online - ''Champion'' Sale Page]
−
*''[[Record Sheets: 3050]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3025/3026]]''
−
*''[[Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Clan & Star League)]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3039]]''
−
*''[[Record Sheets: Upgrades]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3050]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 2750]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3050 Upgrade (Clan & Star League)]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 3025 Revised]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: Operation Klondike]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 3039]]''
+
* ''[[Record Sheets: Upgrades]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 2750]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Revised]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3025 Revised]]''
−
*''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3039]]''
−
*''[[Tukayyid (scenario pack)]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]''
−
*''[[Record Sheets: Operation Klondike]]''
+
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Revised]]''
 +
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade]]''
 +
* ''[[Tukayyid (scenario pack)|Tukayyid]]'' (scenario pack)
 +
</div>
  
−
[[Category:Inner Sphere General BattleMechs]]
+
[[Category:'Mechs]]
 +
[[Category:ComStar BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Star League BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Star League BattleMechs]]
−
[[Category:C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
 
[[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:SLDF Royal BattleMechs]]
 
[[Category:SLDF Royal BattleMechs]]

Latest revision as of 17:55, 25 March 2024

Champion
Champion
Production information
Manufacturer Bergan Industries
Production Year 2602[1]
Model CHP-1N
Class Heavy
Cost 5,754,400 C-bills
Technical specifications
'Mech type Inner Sphere BattleMech
Mass 60 tons
Chassis Bergan XI
Armor Star Slab/2 Ferro-Fibrous
Engine Vlar 300
Communications System Garret T-11 C
Targeting Tracking System Mercury-IV with Artemis IV FCS
Heat Sinks 10
Speed 86.4 km/h
Armament
BV (1.0) 942
BV (2.0) 1,233[2]


Description[edit]

The Champion debuted in 2602 from Bergan Industries, their second-ever BattleMech after the highly-successful Locust, as a generalist combat 'Mech with a focus on heavy reconnaissance and fast strike capabilities. While definitely faster and more maneuverable than other heavy 'Mechs, it was criticized by many for being too large, underarmed, and underarmored. Indeed Earthwerks Incorporated had a competing bid, a modified version of their 55-ton Griffin, which had the same performance capabilities and cost less. In the end Bergan won the lobbying wars and an initial order of 200 Champions were produced for the Star League Defense Force.[3][4]

Despite its serious flaws the Champion was one of the most popular 'Mechs with the SLDF: in an era mostly marked by small skirmishes and duels where tactical positioning was key, its swiftness was sufficient enough for many pilots. It served in many of the SLDF's independent BattleMech regiments, and when newer designs began to outpace it the 'Mech was sold to the Star League's member states. Unfortunately Bergan's New Earth factory was destroyed in 2776 during the Amaris Civil War, and in the Succession Wars that followed the Champion suffered heavy losses. Eventually the loss of the advanced technology which went into making the Champion forced many surviving 'Mechs to be refitted with lesser components. Towards the end of the Succession Wars a few Champions could still be found in the arsenals of the Great Houses, with the Capellan Confederation just barely fielding the most followed by the Lyran Commonwealth.[5][2]

ComStar was able to maintain a number of original Champions in their secret stockpiles which were later used to outfit the Com Guards and the Clans maintained the aging design for their garrison forces, which they brought along during the Clan Invasion. A number of ComStar Champions were upgraded prior to the pivotal Battle of Tukayyid, among several designs which informally were known as Clanbusters, and eventually production of original-model Champions was restarted at Bergan's New Earth facility in the late 3050s. A new variant was eventually produced for ComStar and after the ComStar Schism the Champion could be found in the hands of the Word of Blake.[2]

Weapons and Equipment[edit]

The armament on the Champion is considered by many to be feeble for its size. A Lubalin Ballistics LB 10-X Autocannon with two tons of ammo is mounted in the right torso, while one Harpoon-6 SRM-6 Launcher mated to an Artemis IV Fire Control System with one ton of reloads is mounted in the left. These are backed up by two Magna Mk II medium lasers in the left torso and two Martell Small Lasers in the center torso. The excess heat produced by these weapons is barely kept in check through the use of ten single heat sinks, a result of Bergan trying to keep costs low, while eight tons of ferro-fibrous armor provides meager protection. The factor behind the Champion's survival is its massive 20-ton fusion engine which gives the 'Mech good speed and maneuverability.[3]

Variants[edit]

  • CHP-1N2 
    This unofficial but common field refit was first seen in 2667. Given the poor heat management of the Champion, many pilots made the difficult modification of swapping out the traditional heat sinks for double-strength ones. Bergan never authorized this variant as an official factory refit, likely on account it would mean admitting something was wrong with the original design.[5] BV (1.0)= ??, BV (2.0) = 1,233[6]
  • CHP-1Nb 
    A variant reserved for SLDF Royal units, this Champion was introduced in 2751 and replaces all the standard weaponry with a Gauss rifle and ER PPC. It also uses double heat sinks. BV (2.0) = 1,632[7][8]
  • CHP-1Nb2 
    The original Royal variant with a standard PPC, upgraded once the ER PPC was available.[9]
  • CHP-2N 
    The 2N is a downgraded variant first spotted in 2810 that replaces lostech components with ones still available. The advanced LB-X Autocannon is replaced with a standard Mydron Model B Autocannon/10 and the Artemis IV FCS is removed. In addition, this variant replaces the ferro-fibrous armor with the same weight in standard armor, further reducing the overall armor protection on what is widely acknowledged as an already fragile 'Mech. BV (1.0) = 839, BV (2.0) = 1,116 [10]
  • CHP-3N 
    One of the so-called "Clanbuster" variants developed in 3052 by ComStar in the lead-up to the Battle of Tukayyid, this variant is a major upgrade that replaces the standard fusion engine with a lighter but more vulnerable Vlar 300 ExtraLight engine, the heat sinks have been upgraded to double heat sinks and two Nightwind Large Lasers, surplus from the Clanbuster upgrade of the Wyvern, have been added to the 'Mech's unoccupied arms. [11] BV (1.0) = 1,059[12], BV (2.0) = 1,400[6]
  • CHP-3P 
    The 3P is the newest variant of the Champion, introduced in 3061. The 'Mech's arsenal has been completely upgraded to modern standards with the complete removal of all of its weapons. In their place this version of the Champion carries four ER medium lasers, two in each arm. An Ultra Autocannon/10 replaces the LB-X Autocannon and the SRM-6 has been replaced by an improved Narc Missile Beacon. In addition, the ExtraLight engine used in the 3N has been retained and an improved C3 computer was added to allow the Champion to work as part of a 6-unit C3 network. BV (1.0) = 1,454 [12][13], BV (2.0) = 1,503[6]
  • Champion C 
    This variant was built by the Clans using their advanced technology, although it differs little from the original. Built in 2867 it uses an XL engine with the weight saved going into the addition of 5 jump jets that enable the 'Mech to jump up to 150 meters at a time. The medium lasers were upgraded to Medium Pulse Lasers and a pair of ER medium lasers were added. The small lasers are also upgraded to Small Pulse Lasers. The rest of the weaponry is upgraded to Clan standards and the remaining tonnage went to additional armor.[2] BV (1.0) = ??, BV (2.0) = 2,191[6]

Custom Variants[edit]

Apocryphal Variants[edit]

Apocryphal Content Starts

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

From MechWarrior Online:

Apocryphal Content Ends

Design Quirks[edit]

Notable pilots[edit]

See: Category:Notable Champion Pilots

Related Designs[edit]

  • Champion LAM - Using the bullet-nosed Champion as the basis for an attempt to create a heavy Land-Air 'Mech, Bergan Industries ultimately admitted defeat and the flawed concept was discontinued.[17]

Gallery[edit]

Notes[edit]

  • Author Blaine Lee Pardoe stated in a blog entry that, according to his memory which he admitted could be wrong, the Champion was among the BattleMechs for which he wrote the original background as initially published in TRO:2750; for some of these he also designed the stats.

References[edit]

  1. ↑ MUL online date for the Champion
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 202-203
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 Technical Readout: 2750, p. 34-35
  4. ↑ Technical Readout: 3025 Revised, p. 70-71
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 Technical Readout: 3039, p. 262-263
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 6.3 Master Unit List: Battle Values, p. 78
  7. ↑ Record Sheets: Operation Klondike, p. 43
  8. ↑ Historical: Operation Klondike, p.160
  9. ↑ MUL entry for Champion CHP-1Nb2
  10. ↑ Record Sheets: 3039, p. 136
  11. ↑ Tukayyid (scenario pack), pp. 12-17, "Com Guard Mechs"
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 Combat Operations, p. 123
  13. ↑ Record Sheets: Upgrades, p. 101
  14. ↑ Technical Readout: 3050 Upgrade, p. 212 "CHP-1N Champion - Force Commander Pasi Irin"; Note that there is no MUL entry for this Mech nor BV. No stats have been shared for it
  15. ↑ MechWarrior Online Champion Sale Page
  16. ↑ BattleTech Manual, p. 90, "BattleMech Quirk Table: Champion"
  17. ↑ Experimental Technical Readout: Boondoggles, p. 6, "CPN-1X1 Champion LAM"

Bibliography[edit]

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