Editing Locust

{{InfoBoxBattleMech
|image = Locust_LCT-1V_FSW.jpg
|name = ''Locust''
|manufacturer = 
[[Achernar BattleMechs]]<ref name=ObjRp96>''Objective Raids'', p. 96: "Achernar BattleMechs"</ref><ref name=TRCIp86f>''Technical Readout: Clan Invasion'', pp. 86–87: "LCT-5M Locust", reprinted from ''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', pp. 14–15: "LCT-5M Locust" with a Notable MechWarriors section added.</ref><ref name=TR3085p226f />
----
[[Alliance Defenders Limited]]<ref name=TR3050p54f /><ref name=ObjRp153>''Objective Raids'', p. 153: "Alliance Defenders Limited"</ref><ref name=TRSWp8f /><ref name=ObjTCp17>''Objectives: The Clans'', p. 17: "Alliance Defenders Limited"</ref>
----
[[Bergan Industries]]<ref name=TR3050p54f /><ref name=ObjRp140>''Objective Raids'', p. 140: "Bergan Industries"</ref><ref name=TRSWp8f /><ref name=ObjCCp6>''Objectives: Capellan Confederation", p. 6: "Bergan Industries"</ref><ref name=RGIv16p4f>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, volume 16'', pp. 4–5: "Locust"</ref>
----
[[Bordello Military Goods, Inc.]]<ref name=OB:Pp31>''Objectives: Periphery'', p. 31: "Bordello Military Goods, Inc."</ref>
----
[[Corean Enterprises MacAdams-Suharno|Corean Enterprises]]<ref name=TRCIp86f/><ref name=TR3085p226f>''Technical Readout: 3085'', pp. 226–227: "LCT-5W2 Locust"</ref><ref name=TR3050p54f/><ref name=SBW&Bp31>''Starterbook: Wolf and Blake'', p. 31: "Russel Madison"</ref><ref name=ObjFWLp35>''Objectives: Free Worlds League'', p. 35: "Corean Enterprises"</ref>
----
[[Defiance Industries]]<ref name=TR3050p54f/><ref name=RGIv16p4f/><ref name=ObjRp74>''Objective Raids'', p. 74: "Defiance Industries of Hesperus II"</ref><ref name=ObjLAp12>''Objectives: Lyran Alliance'', p. 12: "Defiance Industries"</ref>
----
[[Diplass BattleMechs]]<ref name=FSW-154>''First Succession War'', p. 154: "Rules Annex - Technical Readout: - LCT-1E ''Locust''"</ref>
----
[[Gibson Federated BattleMechs]]<ref name=TR3050p54f>''Technical Readout: 3050'', pp. 54–55: "Locust"</ref><ref name=ObjRp124>''Objective Raids'', p. 124: "Gibson Federated BattleMechs (A Division of FWDI)"</ref>
----
[[Interstellar Armaments]]<ref name="FM:3145p189">''Field Manual: 3145'', p. 189: "Fronc Reaches"</ref>
----
[[Majesty Metals and Manufacturing]]<ref name=TR3050p54f/><ref name=TRSWp8f/><ref name=ObjRp151>''Objective Raids'', p. 151: "Majesty Metals and Manufacturing"</ref><ref name=ObjPp16>''Objectives: Periphery'', p. 16: "Majesty Metals & Manufacturing"</ref>
----
[[Pinard Protectorates Limited]]<ref name=TR3050p54f /><ref name=ObjRp158>''Objective Raids'', p. 158: "Pinard Protectorates Limited"</ref><ref name=ObjPp7>''Objectives: Periphery'', p. 7: "Pinard Protectorates Limited"</ref>
----
[[Protectorate Military Industries]]<ref name=FM3145p188>''Field Manual: 3145'', p. 188: "Calderon Protectorate"</ref>
----
[[Rim Motors]]<ref name=FM3145p190>''Field Manual: 3145'', p. 190: "Rim Collection"</ref>
----
[[Taurus Territorial Industries]]<ref name=TR3050p54f /><ref name=ObjRp162>''Objective Raids'', p. 162: "Taurus Territorial Industries"</ref><ref name=ObjPp8>''Objectives: Periphery'', p. 8: "Taurus Territorial Industries"</ref>
|model = LCT-1V<ref name=TRSWp8f>''Technical Readout: Succession Wars'', pp. 8–9: "LCT-1V Locust", which reprints the entry from ''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 281: "LCT-1V Locust" with additional Notable MechWarriors entries. The 1V was originally featured in ''Technical Readout: 3025'', pp. 8–9: "LCT-1V Locust"</ref> <!-- first model to be featured in a full TRO -->
|class = Light
|cost = 1,512,400 [[C-bill]]s
|production year = 2499
|year reference = <ref name=TRO3025p8>''Technical Readout: 3025'', p. 8</ref><ref name=TRO3039p281>''Technical Readout: 3039'', p. 281</ref><ref>''Era Digest: Age of War'', p. 11</ref>
|Tech Base = Inner Sphere
|mech type = BattleMech
|mass = 20
|feet = biped
|chassis = [[Bergan VII]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp8f /> -->
|armor = [[StarSlab/1]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp8f /> -->
|engine = [[LTV 160]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp8f /> -->
|comsys = [[Garret T-10B]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp8f /> -->
|T&T = [[O/P 911]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp8f /> -->
|heat sinks = 10 [[Heat Sink|single]] <!-- <ref name=TRSWp8f /> -->
|speed = 129 <!-- <ref name=TRSWp8f /> -->
|armament =  <!-- <ref name=TRSWp8f /> -->
* 1x [[medium laser]]
* 2x [[machine gun]]
|BV (1.0) = 356<ref name=CO121>''Combat Operations'', p. 121</ref>
|BV (2.0) = 432<ref name=TRSWp8f /><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 9</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 439</ref>
}}

==Description==
The '''''Locust''''' was one of the most common [[BattleMech]]s in existence, having been in continuous production since the design was first introduced by [[Bergan Industries]] in [[Introduction Year::2499]]. One of the smallest 'Mechs ever built, the ''Locust'' was designed exclusively for reconnaissance and quick strike missions, using its then-phenomenal speed to outrun most enemies. In a situation where it was unable to outrun its enemies, the 'Mech did have a light array of weapons with which to defend itself, but the ''Locust'' lacked the firepower or staying power to be a true front-line combatant and as a result few [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarriors]] enjoyed piloting ''Locusts''. Within its weight-class though, the ''Locust'' was considered an excellent 'Mech, overshadowed as a scout only by designs which mounted [[jump jet]]s. Often when a ''Locust'' engaged in combat it was as a holding action until reinforcements could arrive, although when operating in groups of three they could swarm lone enemy 'Mechs that were separated from friendly support.<ref name=TRO3025p8/><ref name=TRO3039p281/>

Bergan Industries built ''Locusts'' from eight different factories and supplied the [[Star League]] and its member states right through to the [[Amaris Civil War]].<ref name=TRO3025p8/>  During the [[Succession Wars (History)|Succession Wars]] the number of manufacturers increased and the design was being built in nearly a dozen factories, including ones in the [[Periphery]].<ref name=TRO3039p281/>  The wide variety of manufacturers meant production costs for the 'Mech were low and parts were widely available, leading to everyone from lowly pirates to corporate defense forces buying ''Locusts'' in large numbers.  It also led to many different variants of the ''Locust'', including a failed Davion version mounting a PPC, although those in the Periphery were largely limited to building the original LCT-1V model.<ref name=TRO3025p8/><ref name=TRO3039p281/><ref name=TRO3050p54 />

As the Succession Wars wound down those manufacturers within the [[Successor States]] began to experiment with new and [[lostech|rediscovered technology]] to build updated versions of the ''Locust''. The [[Capellan Confederation]] in particular modified the Ares facility to build the LCT-1L variant of the ''Locust'' with a version of the [[Triple Strength Myomer]] that wouldn't catch on fire.<ref name=TRO3039p281/> Other updated variants, including the LCT-3D, LCT-3M, and LCT-3S were introduced just in time to take part in the [[Clan Invasion]].<ref name=TRO3050p54 /> After the war the [[Word of Blake]] approached Corean Enterprises about creating a new ''Locust'' variant for their [[Word of Blake Militia|militia]], agreeing to buy the entire first production run to assuage the company's misgivings. The various Periphery powers, still largely reliant on the ''Locust'', also began fielding updated variants of their own, although none of the [[Great Houses]] were much interested in revitalizing the line.<ref name=TROPPp4>''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', p. 4</ref> Even into the [[thirty-second century]] though the ''Locust'' continues to be produced and used out in the Periphery.<ref name="FM:3145p189"/>

===Manufacturers===
The following manufacturers produced the ''Locust'' at some time. Models and planets are noted where known. [[Vicore Industries]] was licensing its Locust variants to other companies by 3067.<ref name=TRPPp14f />
* [[Bergan Industries]] has produced the Locust throughout its history, even licensing it to the four Periphery powers before the [[Amaris Coup]].<ref name=FSW-154 /> 
** [[Ares (system)|Ares]]: The 1V was in production from its introduction through at least 3054,<ref name=TR3050p54f /><ref name=ObjRp140 /><ref name=TRO3039p281/> by then being produced in limited numbers for [[triple-strength myomer]] testing using its 1L refit; production . The 1E was introduced in 2811, commissioned by the Capellan government to reduce dependence on ammunition.<ref name=FSW-154 /> Production of the 1Vb was revived during the Jihad.<ref name=RGIv16p4f /> The variant produced in 3080 was not specified.<ref name=ObjCCp6 /> Bergan introduced its 7V during the ilClan era;<ref name=RGIv16p4f /> the 7V2 is presumably a refit or production variant of the Bergan product.
** [[New Earth]]: The 1Vb Royal SLDF model was produced from its introduction in 2610, ceasing during the collapse of the Star League.<ref name=TRO3039p281/>
* [[Achernar BattleMechs]]' main facility was on [[New Avalon]]. The West Fabrication Facility on [[Achernar]] was a longtime producer of IndustrialMechs before its capture by the Word of Blake, who converted the plant to produce the ''[[Osprey]]''; the plant was destroyed in June 3077.<ref name="J:FRp57">''Jihad: Final Reckoning'', p. 57: "The Jihad In Review"</ref>
** The WFF facility produced the 5W variant before its destruction.<ref name=TR3085p226f />
** New Avalon facility was producing the 3D in 3050<ref name=TR3050p54f /> and 3054.<ref name=ObjRp96 /> They purchased the 5M license from Corean, with production starting in 3067.<ref name=TRPPp14f />
* [[Alliance Defenders Limited]]: Produced the 1V in 3025,<ref name=TR3050p54f /> 3050,<ref name=TRO3039p281/> and 3054.<ref name=ObjRp153 /> The 3080 production model is not known.<ref name=ObjTCp17 />
* [[Bordello Military Goods, Inc.]] was producing an unspecified variant on [[Antwerp]] in 3080.<ref name=OB:Pp31 />
* [[Clan Ghost Bear]] salvaged the ''Locust'' line on [[Alshain]] after its conquest, producing the 1V by 3054.<ref name=ObjRp110>''Objective Raids'', p. 110: "Alshain"</ref>
* [[Corean Enterprises MacAdams-Suharno]]: Corean produced the 3M in its [[Stewart]] plant in 3050<ref name=TR3050p54f /> and 3054.<ref name=ObjRp124 /> The 5M was part of the Project Phoenix revival, with the [[Word of Blake]] receiving the entire first production run during the early [[Jihad]].<ref name=TRPPp14f>''Technical Readout: Project Phoenix'', pp. 14–15: "LCT-5M Locust"</ref> The 6M was in production by 3071<ref name=SBW&Bp31 /> and still going in 3085.<ref name=TR3085p226f /> The model produced in 3080 is unknown,<ref name=ObjFWLp35 /> though the 5W2 was in production by 3085.<ref name=TR3085p226f />
* [[Defiance Industries]]: Defiance produced the 3S on [[Furillo]] in 3050<ref name=TR3050p54f /> and 3054.<ref name=ObjRp74 /> The 5S was a Jihad-era design.<ref name=RGIv16p4f /> The version produced in 3080 is not specified.<ref name=ObjLAp12 /> Near the start of the ilClan era, they introduced the 7S.<ref name=RGIv16p4f />
* [[Diplass BattleMechs]] produced the 1V on [[Timbuktu]] until the SLDF invasion of the [[Rim Worlds Republic]].<ref name=FSW-154 />
* [[Free Worlds Defense Industries#Gibson Federated BattleMechs|Gibson Federated BattleMechs]]: [[Free Worlds Defense Industries|FWDI]] produced the 3M at its [[Gibson]] facility in 3050<ref name=TR3050p54f /> and 3054.<ref name=ObjRp124 />
* [[Interstellar Armaments]] on [[Rockwellawan]] was producing the 1V in 3145.<ref name="FM:3145p189" />
* [[Majesty Metals and Manufacturing]]: MMM produced the ubiquitous 1V in 3025,<ref name=TRO3039p281/> 3050,<ref name=TR3050p54f /> and 3054.<ref name=ObjRp151 /> MMM was producing one or more variants on [[Canopus IV]] and [[Dunianshire]] in 3080.<ref name=ObjPp16 />
* [[Pinard Protectorates Limited]] on [[MacLeod's Land]] still produced the 1V in 3050<ref name=TR3050p54f /> and 3054.<ref name=ObjRp158 /> In 3080, PPL was producing an unspecified variant.<ref name=ObjPp7 />
* [[Protectorate Military Industries]] on [[Erod's Escape]] was producing an unspecified variant in 3145.<ref name=FM3145p188 />
* [[Rim Motors]] on [[Otisberg]] was producing an unspecified variant in 3145.<ref name=FM3145p190 />
* [[Taurus Territorial Industries]] on [[Taurus]] was producing the 1V in 3050<ref name=TR3050p54f /> and 3054.<ref name=ObjRp162 /> In 3080, TTI produced an unspecified variant.<ref name=ObjPp8 />
* The site or even producer is not always known or specified in available documents.
** The [[Marian Hegemony]] was fielding the 1V2 by 3067, though its source was unknown.<ref name=TRPPp14f />
** The Magistracy of Canopus and Taurian Concordat were producing the 5V by 3067.<ref name=TRPPp14f />
** The "Periphery-born" 5T was in use by the Capellans by 3085.<ref name=TR3085p226f /> The use of a [[machine gun array]] implies a Taurian origin.

==Weapons and Equipment==
The main weapon of the LCT-1V ''Locust'' was a single [[Medium_laser#Martell|Martell]] [[medium laser]] mounted in the center torso. Backing this up were two [[Sperry Browning]] [[machine gun]]s, which effectively deterred infantry attacks against the ''Locust''<nowiki>'</nowiki>s vulnerable legs. These were located in either arm and fed by a one-ton ammo bin located in the center torso.  Lacking hand actuators the ''Locust'' was vulnerable to other 'Mechs when engaging in close combat.<ref name=TRSWp8f /><ref name=TRO3025p8/><ref name=TRO3039p281/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 9</ref>

The primary asset of the ''Locust'' was its speed, using a 160-rated [[fusion engine]] to attain a cruising speed of 86.4 km/h and top speed of 129.6 km/h. This speed is necessary for the 'Mech's survival, since four tons of armor means the ''Locust'' can be quickly crippled or destroyed by direct hits. The standard engine-mounted 10 [[heat sinks]] are sufficient in most cases, although those variants which mount more energy weapons can suffer.<ref name=TRSWp8f /><ref name=TRO3025p8/><ref name=TRO3039p281/>

==Variants==
*; LCT-1E : Developed by Bergan in response to Capellan requests for a ''Locust'' with greater punch and lower munition consumption as the [[First Succession War]] shifted to lower level raiding, the LCT-1E ''Locust'' was introduced in [[2811]]. Among the least-produced variants, the "Energy" ''Locust'' carried an entirely laser-based weapons assortment, with two [[Medium_laser#Martell|Martell]] [[medium laser]]s and two [[Small_Laser#Magna|Magna]] [[small laser]]s mounted in the arms. This choice allowed Capellan MechWarriors to overcome the 'Mech's limited firing arc by flipping its weaponry between forward and rearward arcs at will.<ref name=TRSWp8f /><ref name=TRO3025p8 /><ref name=TRO3039p281/><ref name=FSW-154/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 5</ref> BV (1.0) = 484;<ref name=CO121 /> BV (2.0) = 553<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 5</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 435</ref>

*; LCT-1L : The LCT-1L ''Locust'' was an attempt to allow the 'Mech to operate at even higher speeds by adding [[Triple Strength Myomer]] to the design. Introduced in [[3030]], the weapons are identical to those on the LCT-1V, as it was a testbed for the technology by Bergan Industries' Ares plant.<ref name=TRO3050p54 /><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 6</ref> BV (1.0) = 364;<ref>''Combat Operations'', p. 122</ref> BV (2.0) = 474<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 6</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 436</ref>

*; LCT-1M : The LCT-1M was a long-range version of the ''Locust'' built for the [[Federated Suns]] in [[2571]]. This variant carried two [[LRM-5]] launchers in place of the [[machine gun]]s and one ton of reloads, at the cost of three tons of armor protection.<ref name=TRSWp8f /><ref name=TRO3025p8 /><ref name=TRO3039p281/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 7</ref> BV (1.0) = 382;<ref name=CO130>''Combat Operations'', p. 130</ref> BV (2.0) = 424<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 7</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 437</ref>

*; LCT-1S : The LCT-1S ''Locust'' built for the [[Lyran Commonwealth]] in [[2567]] also replaced the [[machine gun]]s, this time with two [[SRM-2]] racks with one ton of reloads for a heavier close range punch. This came at the cost of one ton of armor protection.<ref name=TRSWp8f /><ref name=TRO3025p8 /><ref name=TRO3039p281/><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 8</ref> BV (1.0) = 376;<ref name=CO132>''Combat Operations'', p. 132</ref> BV (2.0) = 440<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 8</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 438</ref>

*; LCT-1V (C) : A [[Clan]]-tech retrofit of the classic ''Locust'' and intended for second-line and ''[[solahma]]'' troops, the ''Locust C'' replaced each of the arm-mounted [[machine gun]]s with a Clan [[ER small laser]], which frees up the weight to replace the center [[medium laser]] with a Clan-grade [[medium pulse laser]], but leaves the structural components of the LCT-1V unaltered. BV (2.0) = 672<ref name=BoTSp72>''Battle of Tukayyid Supplemental'', p. 72: "Locust C"</ref>

*; LCT-1Vb : The [[SLDF Royal|Royal]] ''Locust'' introduced in [[2610]] mounts a [[small pulse laser]] and a [[medium pulse laser]] in each arm, while keeping the torso-mounted [[medium laser]]. It also uses an [[XL engine]], [[endo steel]] chassis, and [[ferro-fibrous]] armor, and the [[single heat sink]]s have also been upgraded to [[double heat sink]]s. BV (2.0) = 642<ref>''Record Sheets: Operation Klondike, p. 19</ref><ref name=HOKp159>''Historical: Operation Klondike'', p. 159</ref>

*; LCT-1V2 : The 1V2 ''Locust'' was a Periphery upgrade of the design introduced in [[3066]] for the [[Marian Hegemony]]. While still carrying the center-mounted [[medium laser]], it mounted four [[RL-10]]s in place of the [[machine gun]]s.<ref name=TRCIp86f /><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 10</ref> BV (1.0) = 500;<ref name=CO139 /> BV (2.0) = 568<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 10</ref>

*; LCT-3D : The 3D ''Locust'', introduced in [[3049]], used [[Star League]] technology to take the concept of the 1M further. Although it carried only two [[LRM-5#Magna_Longbow-5|Magna Longbow-5]] [[LRM-5]] launchers, the engineers at Achernar BattleMechs on New Avalon upgraded the armor to [[ferro-fibrous]] and the structure to [[endo steel]]. Completely lacking in close-range, weaponry this variant was suitable for harassing the enemy at long range then fleeing before they could get too close.<ref name=TRO3050p54>''Technical Readout: 3050'', p. 54</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 11</ref> BV (1.0) = 377;<ref name=CO127>''Combat Operations'', p. 127</ref> BV (2.0) = 436<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 11</ref><ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 16'', p. 15</ref>

*; LCT-3M : The 3M ''Locust'' was built for the [[Free Worlds League]] in [[3050]], with production carried out at both Corean Enterprises on Stewart and Free Worlds Defense Industries on Gibson. It retained the [[Medium_laser#Martell|Martell]] [[medium laser]], but replaced the [[machine gun]]s with four [[Small_Laser#Magna|Magna]] [[small laser]]s and added a [[Voelkers Parasol]] [[anti-missile system]] in the left arm for missile defense. The armor was upgraded to [[Kallon FWL Special]] [[ferro-fibrous]] with [[CASE]] in the left torso to protect the one ton of AMS ammo, and utilized a [[Corean-II Delux Endo Steel]] chassis. The electronics were also updated to a [[Garrett T10 B]] communications system and a [[Corean CalcMaster]] targeting-tracking system.<ref name=TRO3050p54 /><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 12</ref> BV (1.0) = 464;<ref name=CO130 /> BV (2.0) = 522<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades (Complete)'', p. 12</ref><ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 16'', p. 16</ref>

*; LCT-3S : The 3S ''Locust'', constructed on Furillo by Defiance Industries in 3049, carried the 1S upgrade further. This time, as with the 3M, the structure used [[endo steel]] and the armor was used [[ferro-fibrous]], but the [[SRM-2]]s were upgraded to [[Streak_SRM-2#Coventry_T4H|Coventry T4H]] [[Streak SRM-2]]s while the [[medium laser]] was kept.<ref name=TRO3050p54 /><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 13</ref> BV (1.0) = 431;<ref name=CO132 /> BV (2.0) = 483<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 13</ref><ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 16'', p. 17</ref>

*; LCT-3V : This ''Locust'' variant, introduced in [[3004]], was similar to the 1V except that it carried a set of two [[medium laser]]s in the center torso, while retaining the arm-mounted [[machine gun]]s. The additional armament comes at the cost of half a ton of machine gun ammunition and half a ton of armor protection.<ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 440</ref> BV (1.0) = 434;<ref name=CO121 /> BV (2.0) = 490<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 14</ref><ref>''Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged'', p. 440</ref>

*; LCT-5M : The 5M was a straightforward enhancement of the 3M model, keeping the construction and electronics improvements while upgrading all of the lasers to extended-range models, giving it one [[Extended_Range_Medium_Laser#Magna_Mk_VI|Magna Mk VI]] [[ER medium laser]] and four [[Magna Mk IV]] [[ER small laser]]s. In addition, the use of a [[Hermes 240 XL]] engine allowed engineers to upgrade the 'Mech's top speed to 194 km/h.  Designed by the Word of Blake, each of their [[Level III]] units had at least one 5M ''Locust'' after its introduction in 3066.<ref name=TRCIp86f /><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 15</ref> BV (1.0) = 516;<ref name=CO127 /> BV (2.0) = 719<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 15</ref> or 516<ref name=TRCIp86f />

*; LCT-5M2 : This [[Dark Age]] version of the ''Locust'' has a top speed nearing 170 km/h. It carries an [[ER medium laser]] in the center torso and a [[medium pulse laser]] in each arm. It's protected by [[ferro-fibrous]] armor. BV (2.0) = 693<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 73</ref>

*; LCT-5M3 : This ''Locust'' variant was also introduced during the Dark Age. It uses a smaller engine, which reduces the top speed to 140 km/h, but adds a half ton of armor and carries an [[ER medium laser]] in each arm and an [[ER large laser]] in the center torso. BV (2.0) = 929<ref>''Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades'', p. 74</ref>

*; LCT-5S : Developed from the LCT-3S, this configuration carries an [[MML-3]] in each arm. The higher heat load requires 10 [[double heat sink]]s instead of the singles used by the 3S. The [[medium laser]], [[endo steel]] chassis, and armor of the 3S remain the same. The biggest drawback to this design is apparently its lack of missile ammunition; it only carries a single ton of ammo in a [[CASE]]-protected bay. BV (2.0) = 509<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 16'', p. 18</ref>

*; LCT-5T : This upgrade made the ''Locust'' into a devastating anti-[[infantry]] 'Mech. Built in [[3070]], it used an [[XL engine]] and [[ferro-fibrous]] armor to make enough space for three [[light machine gun]]s in each arm, each trio linked to a [[Machine Gun Array]]. A half-ton of [[CASE]]-protected ammunition was sufficient for sustained firing, while [[single heat sink]]s could handle even the load of the [[ER medium laser]] that was of use against hardened targets.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 16</ref> BV (2.0) = 520<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 16</ref>

*; LCT-5V : The 5V ''Locust'' is similar to the 3V ''Locust'', carrying a pair of [[ER medium laser]]s, two [[RL-10]]s, and was protected by [[ferro-fibrous]] armor; the original LTV 160 engine was used. Built in [[3068]], its relatively low-tech design made it attractive to Periphery powers, namely the [[Magistracy of Canopus]] and [[Taurian Concordat]].<ref name=TRCIp86f /><ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 17</ref> BV (1.0) = 537;<ref name=CO139>''Combat Operations'', p. 139</ref> BV (2.0) = 665<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 17</ref>

*; LCT-5W : Developed by the [[Word of Blake]] in [[3076]] this ''Locust'' uses [[MASC]] to top out at speeds of over 180 km/h. It's equipped with a pair of [[ER medium laser]]s, [[Target Acquisition Gear|TAG]], and an [[improved C3 computer]]. [[Light ferro-fibrous]] armor protects the [[endo steel]] structure. BV (2.0) = 695<ref>''Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix'', p. 13</ref>

*; LCT-5W2 : Developed from a Word of Blake design in [[3079]], this ''Locust'' has a top speed of over 150 km/h, and used [[MASC]] to provide bursts of speed topping out at over 180 km/h. A pair of [[ER medium laser]]s provides firepower while a [[C3 slave]], [[Guardian ECM suite]], and [[Target Acquisition Gear|TAG]] system provide electronic support. The chassis uses [[endo steel]], an [[XL engine]] provides power, [[light ferro-fibrous]] armor provides protection, and [[double heat sink]]s keep the heat from the weapons under control. BV (2.0) = 787<ref>''Technical Readout: 3085'', p. 227</ref>

*; LCT-6M : Built in [[3071]], the 6M variant used a massive [[Hermes 280]] [[XL engine]] to propel it to an astounding speed of 226.8 km/h, and was capable of bursts of speed reaching 302.4 km/h through a [[MASC]] system. The 6M used a [[small cockpit]] to save weight with the side effect of making the 'Mech harder to pilot and utilized [[ferro-fibrous]] armor to get the most of the light armor the 'Mech carried. It was armed with two Magna Mk VI ER medium lasers, which were backed up by a single [[Magna Mk IV]] [[ER small laser]]. The 6M was produced by Corean Enterprises on Stewart.<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades'', p. 18</ref><ref>[http://archive.is/ZFqw0 Speed Demon - LCT-6M ''Locust'' Profile]</ref> BV (2.0) = 956<ref>''Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)'', p. 18: The Record Sheet lists a BV of 955, but the later Master Unit List has it at 956</ref>

*; LCT-7S : Defiance Industries uses this model as a testbed for their Clan-spec [[XL engine]] and [[ER medium laser]]. The Furillo plant produces this model, which has a top speed of 180 km/h. An [[endo steel]] chassis is protected by four tons of [[ferro-fibrous]] armor, and 10 [[double heat sink]]s keep things cool. Like the original ''Locust'' this model carries a [[machine gun]] in each arm fed from a [[CASE]] protected half ton ammunition bay.  Despite these features pilots should remember that the ''Locust'' is still a scout 'Mech. BV (2.0) = 706<ref name=RGIv16p5>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 16'', p. 5</ref>

*; LCT-7V : Built by Bergan Industries on Ares, this updated ''Locust'' uses a 200-rated [[light engine]] to improve survivability and reach a top speed of 150 km/h, protected by three and a half tons of [[heavy ferro-fibrous]] armor. The main firepower comes from a [[medium X-Pulse laser]] in the center torso, and each arm carries a [[MagShot|MagShot Gauss rifle]]; the Gauss rifles are fed from a one ton ammo bin in the center torso. [[Endo steel]] is used to provide weight savings needed for this equipment. BV (2.0) = 585<ref name=RGIv16p5 />

*; LCT-7V2 : Based on the LCT-7V, this model replaces the weapons completely. Each arm mount has an [[ER small laser]] while the center torso carries a [[light PPC]], which turns the ''Locust'' into a light sniper that can reposition itself quickly. BV (2.0) = 634<ref>''Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 16'', p. 21</ref>

===Apocryphal Variants===
{{ApocryphalContentStart}}
These variants were introduced in various apocryphal sources, and thus far have not appeared in any canonical media.

''From [[BattleTech: The Crescent Hawks' Inception]]:''
*; "First Modification" : As of [[3028]], the techs on [[Chara]] III used this designation for a field modification of the LCT-1V that exchanges the [[machine gun]]s and their ammunition for a pair of [[medium laser]]s, one mounted in each arm.

*; "Second Modification" : As of [[3028]], the techs on [[Chara]] III used this designation for a field modification of the LCT-1V First Modification that swaps the fusion engine out for a smaller, 140-rated one, and adds one [[small laser]] to each torso side.

''From [[MechWarrior Online]]:''
*; LCT-PB ''Pirates' Bane'' : Themed as a variant piloted by [[Lori Kalmar]], despite the fact it utilizes technology that was not commonly available when she piloted a ''Locust'', the MWO [[Hero 'Mech]] is built around an 190-rated [[XL engine]] on an [[endo steel]] frame, freeing up weight for twin [[small laser]]s in each side torso supported by a pair of center-torso mounted [[machine gun]]s. Additionally fitted with a [[Guardian ECM suite]], two tons of machine gun ammunition and 10 [[double heat sink]]s support it in combat.[http://mwomercs.com/forums/topic/178507-patch-notes-13350-18-nov-2014/]
{{ApocryphalContentEnd}}

== Design Quirks ==
The ''Locust'' has the following [[Design Quirk]]s:<ref name=BMM93>''BattleMech Manual'', Fourth Printing, p. 93: "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>
* [[Compact ’Mech]] <!-- added by errata -->
* [[Narrow/Low Profile]]
* [[Cramped Cockpit]] <!-- added by errata -->
* [[No/Minimal Arms]]
* [[Weak Legs]]

==Related BattleMechs==
* ''[[Locust IIC]]'' - One of the 'Mechs carried on the [[Operation Exodus|Exodus]] with General [[Aleksandr Kerensky]] and the remnants of the [[SLDF]], the [[Clans]] created their own upgraded [[IIC]] variant of the ''Locust'' using Clan technology. BV (1.0) = 975; BV (2.0) = 1,103

* ''[[Koto]]'' - One of the most common 'Mech designs on [[Solaris VII]], as with the Inner Sphere as a whole, the humble ''Locust'' was also a frequent basis for a number of refurbished custom designed 'Mechs, such as [[Omnitech Industries]]' ''Koto''.

==Notable Pilots==
:''See [[:Category:Notable Locust Pilots]]''

==Notes==
* The (original) ''Locust'' artwork from ''TRO:3025'' is one of the [[Unseen]] 'Mech designs. The ''Locust'' was [[Reseen]] in 3067 using revised artwork.

* 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 ''Locust'' was among the BattleMechs for which he wrote the original background as initially published in ''TRO:3025'', after being given only its name, image, and game stats to work with for the TRO entry.

* In German products, the unit's proper name was translated to '''''Heuschreck'''''. The model code was accordingly changed to '''HSC-1K'''.

* In French products, the unit's proper name was translated as '''''Sauterelle''''', which can mean both Locust and Grasshopper.

==Gallery==
<gallery>
Locust.jpg|Original [[Unseen]] LCT-1V ''Locust'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3025|TRO:3025]]''
Locust LCT-1V FSW.jpg|LCT-1V ''Locust'' from ''[[First Succession War (sourcebook)|First Succession War]]''
LCT-3M Locust.jpg|LCT-3M ''Locust'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3050|TRO:3050]]''
Lct-1v2 locust.png|LCT-1V2 ''Locust'' from ''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix|TRO:Phoenix]]''
Lct-5m locust.jpg|LCT-5M ''Locust'' from ''TRO:Phoenix''
Lct-5v locust.png|LCT-5V ''Locust'' from ''TRO:Phoenix''
LCT-5W2 Locust.jpg|LCT-5W2 ''Locust'' from ''[[Technical Readout: 3085|TRO:3085]]''
Camomercseridanilighthorse.png|''Locust'' in colors of [[Eridani Light Horse]] from ''[[Camo Specs]]''
Locust_recon.jpg|A pair of ''Locusts'' on a recon mission from ''[[BattleTech: 25 Years of Art & Fiction]]''
Locust_HRW.jpg|A ''Locust'' in an urban battlefield from ''[[Historical: Reunification War]]''
Locust 8th Rasalhague Regulars CMKurita.png|A ''Locust'' in [[8th Rasalhague Regulars]] colors.
Locust MWDA.png|A ''Locust'' from ''[[MechWarrior: Dark Age|MWDA]]'' dossiers
MWO Locust.png|Model of ''Locust'' from ''[[MechWarrior Online|MWO]]''
File:BattleTech2e-Locust.jpg|''Locust'' standee from ''[[BattleTech, Second Edition]]''
File:PlasTechLocust.jpg|''Locust'' miniature from ''[[PlasTech]]''
File:Mechs-Locust.jpg|''Locust'' miniature from ''[[...Mechs!]]'' (also used in ''[[BattleTech, Third Edition]]'')
File:A Game of Armored Combat - Locust.jpg|''Locust'' miniature from ''[[BattleTech: A Game of Armored Combat]]''
File:Alpha Strike Locust.jpg|''Locust'' miniature from ''[[Alpha Strike Boxed Set]]''
</gallery>

==References==
<references/>

==Bibliography==
{{div col|colwidth=25em}}
* ''[[Battle of Tukayyid Supplemental]]''
* ''[[BattleMech Manual]]''
* ''[[Combat Operations]]''
* ''[[Field Manual: 3145]]''
* ''[[First Succession War (sourcebook)|First Succession War]]''
* ''[[Master Unit List]]''
* ''[[Objectives: Periphery]]''
* ''[[Recognition Guide: ilClan, vol. 16]]''
* ''[[BattleTech Record Sheets: 3025 & 3026|Record Sheets: 3025 & 3026]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3039 Unabridged]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3050]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3067]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3085 Unabridged — Project Phoenix]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: 3145 New Tech, New Upgrades]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrades]]''
* ''[[Record Sheets: Phoenix Upgrade (Complete)]]''
* ''[[BattleTech Record Sheets Volume One: Light 'Mechs|Record Sheets Volume One: Light 'Mechs]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3025]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3039]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3050]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3055]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: 3085]]''
* ''[[Technical Readout: Project Phoenix]]''
{{div col end}}

[[Category:'Mechs]]
[[Category:Federated Suns BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Free Worlds League BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Lyran Commonwealth BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Star League BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Terran Hegemony BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Improved C3 Equipped BattleMechs]]
[[Category:German renamed units]]
[[Category:Draconis Combine BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Magistracy of Canopus BattleMechs]]
[[Category:Marian Hegemony BattleMechs]]