Editing Grand Crusader

The edit can be undone. Please check the comparison below to verify that this is what you want to do, and then save the changes below to finish undoing the edit.

Latest revision		Your text
Line 1:		Line 1:
		+	{{Update Needed|[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 23]]}}
	{{InfoBoxBattleMech		{{InfoBoxBattleMech
−	|image = Grand Crusader (Star Crusader) RGilClan v23.png	+	|image=Grand Crusader (Star Crusader) RGilClan v23.png
−	|name = ''Grand Crusader''	+	|name=''Grand Crusader''
−	|manufacturer =	+	|manufacturer=[[Gibson Federated BattleMechs]]<br>[[Krupp Armament Works]]<br>[[Skobel MechWorks]]
−	[[Gibson Federated BattleMechs]]<ref name=CSp102>''ComStar'', p. 102: "Word of Blake Grand Crusader"</ref>	+	|production year=3053
−	----	+	|year reference=<ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/1252/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>
−	[[Krupp Armament Works]]<ref name=TRJp162f>''Technical Readout: Jihad'', pp. 162–163: "GRN-D-04 Grand Crusader II"</ref> <!-- reprinted from TRO:3055U -->	+	|model=GRN-D-01
−	----	+	|class=Assault
−	[[Skobel MechWorks]]<ref name=TRJp162f />	+	|cost= 15,550,200 C-bills
−	|production year = 3053	+	|Tech Base=Inner Sphere
−	|year reference = <ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/1252/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref>	+	|mech type=BattleMech
−	|model = GRN-D-01	+	|mass=80
−	|class = Assault	+	|chassis=Crucis-ES [[Endo Steel]]
−	|cost = 15,550,200 C-bills	+	|armor=Maximillian 45
−	|Tech Base = Inner Sphere	+	|engine=[[Hermes 240 XL]]
−	|mech type = BattleMech	+	|heat sinks=10 [[Double Heat Sinks]]
−	|mass = 80	+	|speed=54.0
−	|chassis = [[Crucis-ES Endo Steel]]	+	|armament=
−	|armor = [[Maximillian 45]]	+	*1x [[Anti-Missile System]]
−	|engine = [[Hermes 240 XL]]	+	*2x [[Large Pulse Laser]]s
−	|comsys = [[O/P COMNET 210A]]	+	*2x [[LRM-20]]s with [[Artemis IV]]
−	|T&T = [[Garret A99]] with [[Artemis IV|Artemis IV Interface]]	+	*2x [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s
−	|heat sinks = 10 [[Double Heat Sink|double]]	+	|BV (1.0)=1,197<ref name=CO>''Combat Operations'', p. 134</ref>
−	|speed = 54.0	+	|BV (2.0)=1,758<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 165</ref>
−	|armament =
−	* 1x [[anti-missile system]]
−	* 2x [[large pulse laser]]
−	* 2x [[LRM-20]] with [[Artemis IV]]
−	* 2x [[medium pulse laser]]
−	|BV (1.0) = 1,197<ref name=CO>''Combat Operations'', p. 134</ref>
−	|BV (2.0) = 1,758<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 165</ref>
	}}		}}
	==Description==		==Description==
−	The '''''Grand Crusader''''' was originally commissioned by [[Word of Blake]] [[Precentor Martial of the Word of Blake|Precentor Martial]] [[Trent Arian]] after he had assumed command of the [[Word of Blake Militia]] in [[3052]]. The 'Mech was named by him for a passage in one of the works of [[Jerome Blake]] that states "those who fight to preserve technology and knowledge are the grandest crusaders of all". In spite of this, the name can cause confusion as some assume from the name that the 'Mech is an upgraded version of the venerable ''[[Crusader]]'' [[BattleMech]].<ref name=CS-102>''ComStar'', p. 102: "New BattleMechs - Word of Blake Grand Crusader"</ref><ref name=TRO3058-132>''Technical Readout: 3058'', p. 132: "Inner Sphere BattleMechs - Grand Crusader"</ref>	+	The '''''Grand Crusader''''' was originally commissioned by [[Word of Blake]] [[Precentor Martial of the Word of Blake|Precentor Martial]] [[Trent Arian]] after he had assumed command of the [[Word of Blake Militia]] in [[3052]]. The 'Mech was named by him for a passage in one of the works of [[Jerome Blake]] that states "those who fight to preserve technology and knowledge are the grandest crusaders of all". In spite of this, the name can cause confusion as some assume from the name that the 'Mech is an upgraded version of the venerable ''[[Crusader]]'' [[BattleMech]].<ref name=CS-102>''ComStar'', p. 102 "New BattleMechs - Word of Blake Grand Crusader"</ref><ref name=TRO3058-132>''Technical Readout: 3058'', p. 132 "Inner Sphere BattleMechs - Grand Crusader"</ref>
−	The ''Grand Crusader''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s development stems from the Blakists' need for military hardware after their flight to the [[Free Worlds League]] and [[Gibson]]. Though a number of [[Com Guards|Com Guard]] [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarriors]] defected to the Word, few were able to flee the [[ComStar Schism|secular ComStar]] with their 'Mechs, with Trent Arian negotiating with [[Gibson Federated BattleMechs]] to produce new 'Mechs for the Militia with the promise of underwriting production and an agreement that it could be sold on the open market. Save for a few examples scattered through the [[Free Worlds League Military]], most notably the [[15th Marik Militia]], the Blakists snapped up every example, with their [[1st Division (Word of Blake)|First Division]] receiving the first models in [[3053]].<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/>	+	The ''Grand Crusader's'' development stems from the Blakists need for military hardware after their flight to the [[Free Worlds League]] and [[Gibson]]. Though a number of [[Com Guards|Com Guard]] [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarriors]] defected to the Word, few were able to flee the [[ComStar Schism|secular ComStar]] with their 'Mechs, with Trent Arian negotiating with [[Gibson Federated BattleMechs]] to produce new 'Mechs for the Militia with the promise of underwriting production costs and an agreement that it could be sold on the open market. Save for a few examples scattered through the [[Free Worlds League Military]], most notably the [[15th Marik Militia]], the Blakists snapped up every example, with their [[1st Division (Word of Blake)|First Division]] receiving the first models in [[3053]].<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/>
−	Though considered Arian's signature BattleMech, the ''Grand Crusader'' received a dramatic refresh and refit under his successor [[Cameron St. Jamais]] following the [[Operation ODYSSEUS|Blakist capture of Terra]]. Seeking to fuel the expansion of the Blakist Militia, St. Jamais sought ways to increase the output of [[Terra]]'s already overtaxed production capacity, reaching out to [[Vicore Industries]]' [[Giovanni Estrella de la Sangre]] to assist. Vicore's engineering teams suggested numerous ways of streamlining production while enhancing designs, making suggestions to improve upon the ''Grand Crusader'' while using equipment also utilized by the ''[[Vanquisher]]'' and ''[[Legacy (BattleMech)|Legacy]]'' to save money and resources. Expanding production to [[Skobel MechWorks]] and [[Krupp Armament Works]], this new ''Grand Crusader II'' first rolled off the production line in early March of [[3066]], quickly followed up with six more production runs by late August of [[3067]].<ref name=TRO3055U-100>''Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade'', p. 100: "Inner Sphere "Phoenix" BattleMechs - Grand Crusader"</ref>	+	Though considered Arian's signature BattleMech, the ''Grand Crusader'' received a dramatic refresh and refit under his successor [[Cameron St. Jamais]] following the [[Operation ODYSSEUS|Blakist capture of Terra]]. Seeking to the fuel the expansion of the Blakist Militia, St. Jamais sought ways to increase the output of [[Terra]]'s already overtaxed production capacity, reaching out to [[Vicore Industries]]'s [[Giovanni Estrella de la Sangre]] to assist. Vicore's engineering teams suggested numerous ways of streamlining production while enhancing designs, making suggestions to improve upon the ''Grand Crusader'' while using equipment also utilized by the ''[[Vanquisher]]'' and ''[[Legacy]]'' to save money and resources. Expanding production to [[Skobel MechWorks]] and [[Krupp Armament Works]], this new ''Grand Crusader II'' first rolled off the production line in early March of [[3066]], quickly followed up with six more production runs by late August of [[3067]].<ref name=TRO3055U-100>''Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade'', p. 100 "Inner Sphere "Phoenix" BattleMechs - Grand Crusader"</ref>
−	The ''Grand Crusader'' also served as the initial focus of the Word of Blake's efforts to develop [[OmniMech]]s for their military in the 3060s, research going into updating the chassis again with [[OmniPod]] connection points,<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> but the project ultimately foundered and was shelved instead for the [[Celestial series]].<ref name=JHS3072-134>''Jihad Hot Spots: 3072'', p. 134: "Rules Annex - Celestial Series OmniMechs"</ref>	+	The ''Grand Crusader'' also served as the initial focus of the Word of Blake's efforts to develop [[OmniMech]]s for their military in the 3060s, research going into updating the chassis again with [[OmniPod]] connection points,<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> but the project ultimately foundered and was shelved instead for the [[Celestial series]].<ref name=JHS3072-134>''Jihad Hot Spots: 3072'', p. 134 "Rules Annex - Celestial Series OmniMechs"</ref>
	==Weapons and Equipment==		==Weapons and Equipment==
−	The ''Grand Crusader'' has a massive barrel-chested profile that harkens back to designs like the ''[[Awesome]]'' or ''[[Mackie]]'' and lending it an almost steam-age appearance, reinforced by the large smoke-stack style sensor pylons rising from its back. Built to maximize its available space for weapons and equipment, the ''Grand Crusader'' uses a weight saving Crucis-ES [[Endo Steel]] chassis and a lightweight [[Hermes 240]] [[XL engine]] that propels the 'Mech to a top speed of 54.0 km/h. The ''Grand Crusader'' is protected by 15½ tons of [[Maximillian 45]] armor and, to handle the 'Mech's heat burden, the ''Grand Crusader'' carries 10 [[double heat sink]]s.<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/>	+	The ''Grand Crusader'' has a massive barrel-chested profile that harkens back to designs like the ''[[Awesome]]'' or ''[[Mackie]]'' and lending it an almost steam-age appearance, reinforced by the large smoke-stack style sensor pylons rising from its back. Built to maximize its available space for weapons and equipment, the ''Grand Crusader'' uses a weight saving Crucis-ES [[Endo Steel]] chassis and a lightweight [[Hermes 240]] [[XL engine]] that propels the 'Mech to a top speed of 54.0 km/h. The ''Grand Crusader'' is protected by 15½ tons of [[Maximilian 45]] armor and, to handle the 'Mech's heat burden, the ''Grand Crusader'' carries 10 [[double heat sink]]s.<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/>
−	The ''Grand Crusader'' is well-armed to engage an enemy at medium to long ranges. The primary long-range weapons carried by the ''Grand Crusader'' are a pair of [[Holly]] [[LRM-20]] launchers fed from a combined six tons of ammunition, mated with an [[Artemis IV]] fire control system for greater missile accuracy. Gibson developed an innovative housing for the missile launchers, sliding up from the 'Mech's back to give the 'Mech greater firing range for its payload. For medium range combat, the ''Grand Crusader'' has two [[Tronel PPL-20]] [[large pulse laser]]s and, for close range combat, the 'Mech has two [[Intek]] [[medium pulse laser]]s.<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/>	+	The ''Grand Crusader'' is well-armed to engage an enemy at medium to long ranges. The primary long-range weapons carried by the ''Grand Crusader'' are a pair of [[Holly]] [[LRM-20]] launchers fed from a combined six ton of ammunition, mated with an [[Artemis IV]] fire control system for greater missile accuracy. Gibson developed an innovative housing for the missile launchers, sliding up from the 'Mechs back to give the 'Mech greater firing range for its payload. For medium range combat, the ''Grand Crusader'' has two [[Tronel PPL-20]] [[Large Pulse Laser]]s and, for close range combat, the 'Mech has two [[Intek]] [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s.<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/>
−	For added protection against missile attacks, the ''Grand Crusader'' carries an [[LFN Lindblad Shotgun]] [[anti-missile system]], mounted on a pivot point on top of the cockpit. This placement results in a noticeable blind spot on the sides of the ''Grand Crusader''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s lower legs and back that made using the Lindblad less effective to repel [[battle armor]] missile attacks. The Word of Blake's expectation that it would be many years before the 'Mech would encounter the [[Clans]] and their fearsome [[Elemental]]s would give them plenty of time to correct this mistake.<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/>	+	For added protection against missile attacks, the ''Grand Crusader'' carries an [[LFN Lindblad Shotgun]] [[Anti-Missile System]], mounted on a pivot point on top of the cockpit. This placement results in a noticeable blind spot on the sides of the ''Grand Crusader's'' lower legs and back that made using the Lindblad less effective to repel [[Battle Armor]] missile attacks. The Word of Blake's expectation that it would be many years before the 'Mech would encounter the [[Clans]] and their fearsome [[Elemental]]s would give them plenty of time to correct this mistake.<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/>
	==Variants==		==Variants==
−	*; GRN-D-01-X : The prototype model was the first variant to be equipped with a 320 XL engine. It mounted its long-range missiles in a pair of experimental [[BattleMech Turret|shoulder turrets]]. The secondary weapons consisted of a single [[Extended-Range Large Laser]] and four [[Medium Laser]]s.<ref name=RG23p10>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 23'', p. 10</ref>	+	*;GRN-D-02 : By removing half a ton of armor, the [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s, and the [[Anti-Missile System]], the 02 variant of the ''Grand Crusader'' has been modified to act as a dedicated long-range fire support 'Mech by adding two [[LRM-5]] launchers, also linked to the Artemis IV Fire Control System for greater missile accuracy.<ref name=TRO3058-132/> BV (1.0) = 1,211<ref name=CO/>, BV (2.0) = 1,702<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 166</ref>
−	*; GRN-D-02 : By removing half a ton of armor, the [[medium pulse laser]]s, and the [[anti-missile system]] and replacing with two [[LRM-5]] launchers (linked to the Artemis IV fire control system for greater missile accuracy), the -02 variant of the ''Grand Crusader'' has been modified to act as a dedicated long-range fire support 'Mech.<ref name=TRO3058-132/> BV (1.0) = 1,211;<ref name=CO/> BV (2.0) = 1,702<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 166</ref>	+	*;GRN-D-03 : The 03 variant is a complete upgrade of the ''Grand Crusader'', meant to bring it more in line with modern military hardware. The 'Mech is still built on an Skobel Template 8 Endo Steel chassis, but now carries a much larger [[Pitban]] 320 [[light fusion engine]] to give it a top speed of 64.8 km/h and a much greater amount of survivability than the XL engine carried by earlier models. The 03 variant also carries [[Triple Strength Myomer]] to increase its ground speed to 86.4 km/h as long as it is running hot. The 'Mech has four CurtissJet 80 [[jump jet]]s to further increase its mobility. The 03 variant carries fifteen tons of Aldis Plate armor protection and is armed with two [[ER Large Laser]]s as its primary weapons, backed up by an [[LRM-15]] launcher with an Artemis IV fire control system. For close combat, the 'Mech has three [[ER Medium Laser]]s and a [[Streak SRM-6]] missile launcher. The 'Mech also carries an [[improved C3]] computer, allowing it to share targeting data with friendly units.<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> BV (1.0) = 1,761, BV (2.0) = 2,276<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 167</ref>
−	*; GRN-D-02-B : This variant of the ''Grand Crusader'' uses a 320 XL engine. The loadout is the similar to that of the 01 model, but replaces the Large Pulse Lasers with [[Extended Range Large Laser|extended-range models]]<ref name=RG23p10/>.	+	*;GRN-D-04 : This is a completely remodeled variant of the 'Mech. Dubbed the ''Grand Crusader II'', the armor profile radically changed the 'Mech’s appearance. It was built using the same engine, Triple Strength Myomer, and a [[CurtissJet 80]] jump jet combination as the 03 variant. The 04 variant of the ''Grand Crusader'' is built exclusively as a sniper 'Mech. The 'Mech's primary weapon is a [[Krupp Strumfurer]] [[Light Gauss Rifle]] that is effective at extreme ranges. This is backed up by an [[Blakenburg (ERPPC)|Blankenburg]] [[ER PPC]] that is capable of adding its firepower at long range. For close combat, the 'Mech has two [[Diverse Optics Sunbeam (ERML)|Diverse Optics Sunbeam]] [[ER Medium Laser]]s and a [[Guided Technologies 2nd Gen]] Streak SRM-6 missile launcher. The 'Mech also carries an improved C3 unit to allow it to share targeting data with friendly units.<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> BV (1.0) = 1,828, BV (2.0) = 2,292<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 168</ref>
−	*; GRN-D-03 : The 03 variant is a complete upgrade of the ''Grand Crusader'', meant to bring it more in line with modern military hardware. The 'Mech is still built on an Skobel Template 8 Endo Steel chassis, but now carries a much larger [[Pitban]] 320 [[light fusion engine]] to give it a top speed of 64.8 km/h and a much greater amount of survivability than the XL engine carried by earlier models. The 03 variant also carries [[triple strength myomer]] to increase its ground speed to 86.4 km/h as long as it is running hot. The 'Mech has four CurtissJet 80 [[jump jet]]s to further increase its mobility. The 03 variant carries fifteen tons of Aldis Plate armor protection and is armed with two [[ER large laser]]s as its primary weapons, backed up by an [[LRM-15]] launcher with an Artemis IV fire control system. For close combat, the 'Mech has three [[ER medium laser]]s and a [[Streak SRM-6]] missile launcher. The 'Mech also carries an [[improved C3]] computer, allowing it to share targeting data with friendly units.<ref name=TRJp162f /> BV (1.0) = 1,761; BV (2.0) = 2,276<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 167</ref>	+	*;''Grand Crusader Omni'' : The initial focus of the Word of Blake's OmniMech Program, the ''Grand Crusader'' Omni was rumored to enter production in early [[3070]],<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> but ultimately development encountered issues and the project ended as the [[Jihad]] broke out.<ref name=JHS3072-134/>
−	*; GRN-D-04 ''Grand Crusader II'' : This is a completely remodeled variant of the 'Mech. Dubbed the ''Grand Crusader II'', the armor profile radically changed the 'Mech’s appearance. It was built using the same engine, triple strength myomer, and [[CurtissJet 80]] jump jet combination as the 03 variant. The 04 variant of the ''Grand Crusader'' is built exclusively as a sniper 'Mech. The 'Mech's primary weapon is a [[Krupp Strumfurer]] [[light Gauss rifle]] that is effective at extreme ranges. This is backed up by a [[Blankenburg (ER PPC)|Blankenburg]] [[ER PPC]] that is capable of adding its firepower at long range. For close combat, the 'Mech has two [[Diverse Optics Sunbeam (ERML)|Diverse Optics Sunbeam]] [[ER medium laser]]s and a [[Guided Technologies 2nd Gen]] Streak SRM-6 missile launcher. The 'Mech also carries an improved C3 unit to allow it to share targeting data with friendly units. Built on a [[Skobel Template 8 Endo Steel]] chassis, it features [[Aldis Plate]] armor with CASE, [[Skobel Wave VII Comm]] system, and a [[Falcon 15 Watcher]] T&T system.<ref name=TRJp162f /> BV (1.0) = 1,828; BV (2.0) = 2,292<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 168</ref>	+	<!---*;''Star Crusader'' : Insert blurb here, just anchoring the ref<ref name=RC23>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, Vol. 23'', pp. 10-11, 36-39</ref>--->
−
−	*; ''Grand Crusader Omni'' : The initial focus of the Word of Blake's OmniMech Program, the ''Grand Crusader'' Omni was rumored to enter production in early [[3070]],<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> but ultimately development encountered issues and the project ended as the [[Jihad]] broke out.<ref name=JHS3072-134/>
−
−	<!---*;''Star Crusader'' : Insert blurb here, just anchoring the ref<ref name=RC23>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 23'', pp. 10–11, 36–39</ref>--->
	==Design Quirks==		==Design Quirks==
−	The ''Grand Crusader'' has the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref name=BMM91>''BattleMech Manual'', Fourth Printing, p. 91: "BattleMech Quirk Table"</ref><ref>[https://bg.battletech.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/09/BattleMech-Manual-2022-09-14-v6.01.pdf ''BattleMech Manual Errata (Version 6.01)'', p. 9: "BattleMech Quirk Table"]</ref>	+	The ''Grand Crusader'' has the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref name=BMM91>''BattleMech Manual'', Fourth Printing, p. 91, "BattleMech Quirk Table"</ref><ref>[https://bg.battletech.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/BattleMech-Manual-2021-10-11-v5.0.pdf ''BattleMech Manual Eratta (Version 5.0)'', p. 9, "BattleMech Quirk Table"]</ref>
−	*[[Directional Torso Mount|Directional Torso Mount (LT/RT)]]<!-- added by errata -->	+	*[[Directional Torso Mount|Directional Torso Mount (LT/RT)]]
	*[[Bad Reputation]]		*[[Bad Reputation]]
−	The ''Grand Crusader II'' has the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref>''BattleMech Manual'', p. 91: BattleMech Quirk Table - Grand Crusader II Entry</ref>	+	<!---The ''Star Crusader'' has the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref name=RC23/>
−	* [[Easy to Maintain]]	+	*Stable--->
−	* [[Stable]]
−	* [[Bad Reputation]]
	==Notable Pilots==		==Notable Pilots==
	*[[Trent Arian]], first [[Precentor Martial of the Word of Blake]].		*[[Trent Arian]], first [[Precentor Martial of the Word of Blake]].
−	*[[Word of Blake]] Precentor [[Timothy Mayo]] defeated and captured in 3069 by [[Gannon's Cannons]].<ref name=TCp90>''Total Chaos'', p. 90: "Binge, Purge, Flush"</ref>	+	*[[Word of Blake]] Preceptor [[Timothy Mayo]] defeated and captured in 3069 by the [[Gannon's Cannons]].<ref name=TCp90>''Total Chaos'', p. 90 - "BINGE, PURGE, FLUSH"</ref>
−
−	==Related Designs==
−	* ''[[Star Crusader]]'' - The Scorpion Empire developed its first new OmniMech from ''Grand Crusader'' OmniMech schematics found in a Blakist supply cache on the world of [[Braunschweig]].<ref name=RG23p10/>
	==Notes==		==Notes==
−	* In German products, the unit's proper name was literally translated to '''''Großkreuzritter'''''. The model code was accordingly changed to '''GRS-S-01-KZRZ-T'''.	+	In German products the unit's proper name was literally translated to '''Großkreuzritter'''. The model code was accordingly changed to '''GRS-S-01-KZRZ-T'''.
	==Gallery==		==Gallery==
Line 89:		Line 74:
	GrandCrusader.jpg|''Grand Crusader'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3058|TRO:3058]]''		GrandCrusader.jpg|''Grand Crusader'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3058|TRO:3058]]''
	Grand_Crusader_3055U.jpg|GRN-D-04 ''Grand Crusader II'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade|TRO:3055 Upgrade]]''		Grand_Crusader_3055U.jpg|GRN-D-04 ''Grand Crusader II'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade|TRO:3055 Upgrade]]''
−	Grand Crusader (Star Crusader) RGilClan v23.png|''Star Crusader'' from ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 23|RGilClan: Vol. 23]]''	+	Grand Crusader (Star Crusader) RGilClan v23.png|''Star Crusader'' from ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 23|RGilClan: Vol 23]]''
	CCG Crusade Grand Crusader.jpg|GRN-D-01 ''Grand Crusader'' in motion from ''[[BattleTech Trading Card Game|CCG]]''		CCG Crusade Grand Crusader.jpg|GRN-D-01 ''Grand Crusader'' in motion from ''[[BattleTech Trading Card Game|CCG]]''
	</gallery>		</gallery>
Line 98:		Line 83:
	==Bibliography==		==Bibliography==
	* ''[[Combat Operations]]''		* ''[[Combat Operations]]''
−	* ''[[ComStar (sourcebook)|ComStar]]''	+	* ''[[ComStar (sourcebook)|ComStar]]'' (sourcebook)
		+	* [http://www.classicbattletech.com/downloads/MasterUnitList_v1-66p_Names.pdf ''Master Unit List''] (dead link)
	* ''[[Null Set]]''		* ''[[Null Set]]''
	* ''[[Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrade]]''		* ''[[Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrade]]''
Line 106:		Line 92:
	* ''[[Technical Readout: 3058]]''		* ''[[Technical Readout: 3058]]''
−	[[Category:'Mechs]]	+
	[[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]]		[[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]]
	[[Category:Word of Blake BattleMechs]]		[[Category:Word of Blake BattleMechs]]
	[[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]		[[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
	[[Category:German renamed units]]		[[Category:German renamed units]]

Anti-spam check. Do not fill this in!

{{Update Needed|[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 23]]}} {{InfoBoxBattleMech |image=Grand Crusader (Star Crusader) RGilClan v23.png |name=''Grand Crusader'' |manufacturer=[[Gibson Federated BattleMechs]]<br>[[Krupp Armament Works]]<br>[[Skobel MechWorks]] |production year=3053 |year reference=<ref>''[http://www.masterunitlist.info/Unit/Details/1252/ MUL online date for the ''{{PAGENAME}}'']''</ref> |model=GRN-D-01 |class=Assault |cost= 15,550,200 C-bills |Tech Base=Inner Sphere |mech type=BattleMech |mass=80 |chassis=Crucis-ES [[Endo Steel]] |armor=Maximillian 45 |engine=[[Hermes 240 XL]] |heat sinks=10 [[Double Heat Sinks]] |speed=54.0 |armament= *1x [[Anti-Missile System]] *2x [[Large Pulse Laser]]s *2x [[LRM-20]]s with [[Artemis IV]] *2x [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s |BV (1.0)=1,197<ref name=CO>''Combat Operations'', p. 134</ref> |BV (2.0)=1,758<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 165</ref> }} ==Description== The '''''Grand Crusader''''' was originally commissioned by [[Word of Blake]] [[Precentor Martial of the Word of Blake|Precentor Martial]] [[Trent Arian]] after he had assumed command of the [[Word of Blake Militia]] in [[3052]]. The 'Mech was named by him for a passage in one of the works of [[Jerome Blake]] that states "those who fight to preserve technology and knowledge are the grandest crusaders of all". In spite of this, the name can cause confusion as some assume from the name that the 'Mech is an upgraded version of the venerable ''[[Crusader]]'' [[BattleMech]].<ref name=CS-102>''ComStar'', p. 102 "New BattleMechs - Word of Blake Grand Crusader"</ref><ref name=TRO3058-132>''Technical Readout: 3058'', p. 132 "Inner Sphere BattleMechs - Grand Crusader"</ref> The ''Grand Crusader's'' development stems from the Blakists need for military hardware after their flight to the [[Free Worlds League]] and [[Gibson]]. Though a number of [[Com Guards|Com Guard]] [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarriors]] defected to the Word, few were able to flee the [[ComStar Schism|secular ComStar]] with their 'Mechs, with Trent Arian negotiating with [[Gibson Federated BattleMechs]] to produce new 'Mechs for the Militia with the promise of underwriting production costs and an agreement that it could be sold on the open market. Save for a few examples scattered through the [[Free Worlds League Military]], most notably the [[15th Marik Militia]], the Blakists snapped up every example, with their [[1st Division (Word of Blake)|First Division]] receiving the first models in [[3053]].<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/> Though considered Arian's signature BattleMech, the ''Grand Crusader'' received a dramatic refresh and refit under his successor [[Cameron St. Jamais]] following the [[Operation ODYSSEUS|Blakist capture of Terra]]. Seeking to the fuel the expansion of the Blakist Militia, St. Jamais sought ways to increase the output of [[Terra]]'s already overtaxed production capacity, reaching out to [[Vicore Industries]]'s [[Giovanni Estrella de la Sangre]] to assist. Vicore's engineering teams suggested numerous ways of streamlining production while enhancing designs, making suggestions to improve upon the ''Grand Crusader'' while using equipment also utilized by the ''[[Vanquisher]]'' and ''[[Legacy]]'' to save money and resources. Expanding production to [[Skobel MechWorks]] and [[Krupp Armament Works]], this new ''Grand Crusader II'' first rolled off the production line in early March of [[3066]], quickly followed up with six more production runs by late August of [[3067]].<ref name=TRO3055U-100>''Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade'', p. 100 "Inner Sphere "Phoenix" BattleMechs - Grand Crusader"</ref> The ''Grand Crusader'' also served as the initial focus of the Word of Blake's efforts to develop [[OmniMech]]s for their military in the 3060s, research going into updating the chassis again with [[OmniPod]] connection points,<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> but the project ultimately foundered and was shelved instead for the [[Celestial series]].<ref name=JHS3072-134>''Jihad Hot Spots: 3072'', p. 134 "Rules Annex - Celestial Series OmniMechs"</ref> ==Weapons and Equipment== The ''Grand Crusader'' has a massive barrel-chested profile that harkens back to designs like the ''[[Awesome]]'' or ''[[Mackie]]'' and lending it an almost steam-age appearance, reinforced by the large smoke-stack style sensor pylons rising from its back. Built to maximize its available space for weapons and equipment, the ''Grand Crusader'' uses a weight saving Crucis-ES [[Endo Steel]] chassis and a lightweight [[Hermes 240]] [[XL engine]] that propels the 'Mech to a top speed of 54.0 km/h. The ''Grand Crusader'' is protected by 15½ tons of [[Maximilian 45]] armor and, to handle the 'Mech's heat burden, the ''Grand Crusader'' carries 10 [[double heat sink]]s.<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/> The ''Grand Crusader'' is well-armed to engage an enemy at medium to long ranges. The primary long-range weapons carried by the ''Grand Crusader'' are a pair of [[Holly]] [[LRM-20]] launchers fed from a combined six ton of ammunition, mated with an [[Artemis IV]] fire control system for greater missile accuracy. Gibson developed an innovative housing for the missile launchers, sliding up from the 'Mechs back to give the 'Mech greater firing range for its payload. For medium range combat, the ''Grand Crusader'' has two [[Tronel PPL-20]] [[Large Pulse Laser]]s and, for close range combat, the 'Mech has two [[Intek]] [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s.<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/> For added protection against missile attacks, the ''Grand Crusader'' carries an [[LFN Lindblad Shotgun]] [[Anti-Missile System]], mounted on a pivot point on top of the cockpit. This placement results in a noticeable blind spot on the sides of the ''Grand Crusader's'' lower legs and back that made using the Lindblad less effective to repel [[Battle Armor]] missile attacks. The Word of Blake's expectation that it would be many years before the 'Mech would encounter the [[Clans]] and their fearsome [[Elemental]]s would give them plenty of time to correct this mistake.<ref name=CS-102/><ref name=TRO3058-132/> ==Variants== *;GRN-D-02 : By removing half a ton of armor, the [[Medium Pulse Laser]]s, and the [[Anti-Missile System]], the 02 variant of the ''Grand Crusader'' has been modified to act as a dedicated long-range fire support 'Mech by adding two [[LRM-5]] launchers, also linked to the Artemis IV Fire Control System for greater missile accuracy.<ref name=TRO3058-132/> BV (1.0) = 1,211<ref name=CO/>, BV (2.0) = 1,702<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 166</ref> *;GRN-D-03 : The 03 variant is a complete upgrade of the ''Grand Crusader'', meant to bring it more in line with modern military hardware. The 'Mech is still built on an Skobel Template 8 Endo Steel chassis, but now carries a much larger [[Pitban]] 320 [[light fusion engine]] to give it a top speed of 64.8 km/h and a much greater amount of survivability than the XL engine carried by earlier models. The 03 variant also carries [[Triple Strength Myomer]] to increase its ground speed to 86.4 km/h as long as it is running hot. The 'Mech has four CurtissJet 80 [[jump jet]]s to further increase its mobility. The 03 variant carries fifteen tons of Aldis Plate armor protection and is armed with two [[ER Large Laser]]s as its primary weapons, backed up by an [[LRM-15]] launcher with an Artemis IV fire control system. For close combat, the 'Mech has three [[ER Medium Laser]]s and a [[Streak SRM-6]] missile launcher. The 'Mech also carries an [[improved C3]] computer, allowing it to share targeting data with friendly units.<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> BV (1.0) = 1,761, BV (2.0) = 2,276<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 167</ref> *;GRN-D-04 : This is a completely remodeled variant of the 'Mech. Dubbed the ''Grand Crusader II'', the armor profile radically changed the 'Mech’s appearance. It was built using the same engine, Triple Strength Myomer, and a [[CurtissJet 80]] jump jet combination as the 03 variant. The 04 variant of the ''Grand Crusader'' is built exclusively as a sniper 'Mech. The 'Mech's primary weapon is a [[Krupp Strumfurer]] [[Light Gauss Rifle]] that is effective at extreme ranges. This is backed up by an [[Blakenburg (ERPPC)|Blankenburg]] [[ER PPC]] that is capable of adding its firepower at long range. For close combat, the 'Mech has two [[Diverse Optics Sunbeam (ERML)|Diverse Optics Sunbeam]] [[ER Medium Laser]]s and a [[Guided Technologies 2nd Gen]] Streak SRM-6 missile launcher. The 'Mech also carries an improved C3 unit to allow it to share targeting data with friendly units.<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> BV (1.0) = 1,828, BV (2.0) = 2,292<ref>''Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged'', p. 168</ref> *;''Grand Crusader Omni'' : The initial focus of the Word of Blake's OmniMech Program, the ''Grand Crusader'' Omni was rumored to enter production in early [[3070]],<ref name=TRO3055U-100/> but ultimately development encountered issues and the project ended as the [[Jihad]] broke out.<ref name=JHS3072-134/> <!---*;''Star Crusader'' : Insert blurb here, just anchoring the ref<ref name=RC23>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, Vol. 23'', pp. 10-11, 36-39</ref>---> ==Design Quirks== The ''Grand Crusader'' has the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref name=BMM91>''BattleMech Manual'', Fourth Printing, p. 91, "BattleMech Quirk Table"</ref><ref>[https://bg.battletech.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/BattleMech-Manual-2021-10-11-v5.0.pdf ''BattleMech Manual Eratta (Version 5.0)'', p. 9, "BattleMech Quirk Table"]</ref> *[[Directional Torso Mount|Directional Torso Mount (LT/RT)]] *[[Bad Reputation]] <!---The ''Star Crusader'' has the following [[Design Quirks]]:<ref name=RC23/> *Stable---> ==Notable Pilots== *[[Trent Arian]], first [[Precentor Martial of the Word of Blake]]. *[[Word of Blake]] Preceptor [[Timothy Mayo]] defeated and captured in 3069 by the [[Gannon's Cannons]].<ref name=TCp90>''Total Chaos'', p. 90 - "BINGE, PURGE, FLUSH"</ref> ==Notes== In German products the unit's proper name was literally translated to '''Großkreuzritter'''. The model code was accordingly changed to '''GRS-S-01-KZRZ-T'''. ==Gallery== <gallery> Grand_Crusader_01_ComStar.jpg|Original [[Unseen]] GRN-D-01 ''Grand Crusader'' from ''[[ComStar (sourcebook)|ComStar]]'' Grand_Crusader_02_ComStar.jpg|GRN-D-01 ''Grand Crusader'' from ''ComStar'' GrandCrusader.jpg|''Grand Crusader'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3058|TRO:3058]]'' Grand_Crusader_3055U.jpg|GRN-D-04 ''Grand Crusader II'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade|TRO:3055 Upgrade]]'' Grand Crusader (Star Crusader) RGilClan v23.png|''Star Crusader'' from ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 23|RGilClan: Vol 23]]'' CCG Crusade Grand Crusader.jpg|GRN-D-01 ''Grand Crusader'' in motion from ''[[BattleTech Trading Card Game|CCG]]'' </gallery> ==References== <references /> ==Bibliography== * ''[[Combat Operations]]'' * ''[[ComStar (sourcebook)|ComStar]]'' (sourcebook) * [http://www.classicbattletech.com/downloads/MasterUnitList_v1-66p_Names.pdf ''Master Unit List''] (dead link) * ''[[Null Set]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrade]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3055 Upgrades Unabridged]]'' * ''[[Record Sheets: 3055/3058]]'' * ''[[Technical Readout: 3055 Upgrade]]'' * ''[[Technical Readout: 3058]]'' [[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]] [[Category:Word of Blake BattleMechs]] [[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]] [[Category:German renamed units]]

Summary:

Please note that all contributions to BattleTechWiki are considered to be released under the GNU FDL 1.2 (see BattleTechWiki:Copyrights for details). If you do not want your writing to be edited mercilessly and redistributed at will, then do not submit it here.
You are also promising us that you wrote this yourself, or copied it from a public domain or similar free resource. Do not submit copyrighted work without permission!

To edit this page, please answer the question that appears below (more info):

The Free Worlds League is ruled by the head of House _____

Cancel Editing help (opens in new window)

Advanced templates:

Editing: {{Merge}}   {{Moratorium}}   {{Otheruses| | | }}

Notices: {{NoEdit}}   {{Sign}}   {{Unsigned|name}}   {{Welcome}}

Administration: {{Essay}}   {{Policy}}   {{Procedure}}

Templates used on this page:

• Template:InfoBoxBattleMech (edit)
• Template:Sp (edit)