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The '''Magistracy Armed Forces''' (abbreviated '''MAF''') is the military arm of the [[Magistracy of Canopus]].  
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The '''Magistracy Armed Forces''' (abbreviated '''MAF''') is the military arm of the [[Magistracy of Canopus]].  A largely peaceful society, the Magistracy has traditionally regarded its armed forces as a necessary evil, providing it with fewer resources than other states and largely reserving it for defensive purposes against pirates and invaders.  That outlook changed somewhat in the [[31st century]] when the [[Trinity Alliance]] allowed for the expansion and reforms of the MAF until it became the largest military force in the [[Periphery]] in [[3067]].  Despite these changes, the MAF has continued to maintain some of the unique traditions which helps it stand out from other military forces.
  
=== History ===
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== Structure of the MAF ==
 +
Historically, the small size of the MAF allowed it to maintain a streamline, simplistic structure, with little distinction between the different branches.  Its sudden growth and the demands of working alongside its Trinity partners has required the MAF to undergo several changes.  These changes have been gradual though, with the understanding that what worked out well for the past several centuries shouldn't be radically altered without some consideration.<ref name=TP95>''The Periphery'', p. 95</ref><ref name=FMP21>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 21</ref><ref name=HMPS83>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 83</ref>
  
In the peaceful atmosphere that has dominated most of the Magistracy's history, a standing military has been considered a necessary evil at best. It is not surprising, then, that the Magistracy has traditionally fielded one of the smallest armed forces in the Periphery, while relying heavily on local constabularies and mercenary forces. In the years before the outbreak of the [[Reunification War]], however, the Canopian government began a series of crash rearmament programs to redress this lack of well-trained and disciplined forces. It was too late, however, to do more than fight a delaying action against the best that the Inner Sphere could put in the field. During the Canopians' years as a Territorial State, its military was reduced to a symbolic cadre of veteran soldiers confined to service as palace guards. Military buildup renewed after the Magistracy's declaration of independence, but the loss of many key industrial worlds stunted the military's potential for growth. In the present era, the Canopian armed forces remain a curious combination of local militia and highly trained federal troops. The individual Canopian soldier is highly motivated and capable of enduring considerable sacrifice. Far from being "velvet pillow pushovers," the Canopians are fully capable of giving as good as they might get from any invaders who fail to take them seriously enough.
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; Magestrix Command Center
 +
: At the apex of the MAF is the Magestrix Command Center (MCC). Located on [[Canopus IV]], this division of the MAF is directly responsible to the Magestrix for all top-level strategic planning and defense initiatives. Originally it was staffed by the three senior-most Colonels and their Rear Admiral counterparts,<ref name=TP95/> but the Trinity Alliance caused it to expand to nine members: the Senior General, the Generals of the five original Combat Formations, both Admirals of the Canopian Navy, and a Capellan military attache of ''[[jiang-jun]]'' rank. Responsible for coordinating all [[CCAF]] forces operating within the Magistracy, this last addition was initially met with some consternation, though efforts were made to accommodate all involved.<ref name=FMP21/><ref name=HMPS83/>
  
=== Structure of the MAF ===
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; Magistracy Army
 +
: All ground combat units within the MAF are a part of the Magistracy Army. Historically, the army did not differentiate sub-branches (except in the case of infantry and armor commands) due to its small size, with [[artillery]] and [[jump infantry]], when available, classified as infantry.<ref name=TP95/>  The expansion of the MAF have caused these differences to become more pronounced.  This includes the creation of the Militia Defense Corp and the addition of [[Battle Armor]] which, though of limited numbers in 3067, were grouped into their own separate branch under the direct command of the Senior General.<ref name=FMP21/><ref name=HMPS83/>
  
The structure of the Magistracy Armed Forces is simplistic, its small size allowing it to be streamlined with few distinctions between branches.
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; Magistracy Navy
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: Throughout the Succession Wars and into the 31st century, the Canopian Navy's small size has necessitated its grouping into a single organization.  The Navy consists of two fleets, each divided into two squadrons of two flotillas each.  The Battle Fleet is responsible for the defense of orbital space around potential invasion targets, while the Reserve Fleet is stationed in the [[Canopus IV]] system to act as a rapid reaction force.<ref name=TP95/><ref name=FMP22>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 22</ref><ref name=HMPS84>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 84</ref>  Originally the Navy was jointed commanded by both Rear Admirals, with the Magistrix having personal control over the Reserve Fleet and a separate Magistracy Aerospace Arm.<ref name=TP95/> With with the changes in MAF rankings the Navy is jointly commanded by both Admirals and the Aerospace Arm was absorbed into the Navy.<ref name=FMP22/><ref name=HMPS84/>
  
; '''Magestrix Command Center:'''
+
; Magistracy Medical Corps
: At the apex of the MAF is the Magestrix Command Center (MCC). Located on [[Canopus IV]], this division of the MAF is directly responsible to the Magestrix for all top-level strategic planning and defense initiatives. Staffed by three Senior Colonels and their naval counterparts, the MCC coordinates the deployment of all Canopian forces to meet a variety of threats from foreign powers. All operational plans developed by the MCC are subject to the Magestrix's final approval.
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: The Magistracy Medical Corps is the one area where the Canopian military is superior to its Inner Sphere counterparts.  Operating in the belief that every warrior is worth saving, the MMC takes pains to ensure adequate medical care for all active duty personnel and speedily remove the wounded from the battlefield so they can be returned to their units just as quickly. The success of the MCC is thanks in part not just to the skill of its medics and surgeons but also its generous funding, which allows a ratio of roughly one medical specialist for every seven fighting troops, as opposed to a ratio of one to twenty (or more) in other armed forces.<ref name=TP95/><ref name=FMP23>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 23</ref><ref name=HMPS85>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 85</ref>
  
; '''Magistracy Army:'''
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; Magistracy Support Corps
: All ground units within Canopian space are a part of the Magistracy Army. Due to its small size, the army does not differentiate sub-branches beyond the distinctions of infantry and armor commands. Artillery and jump troops, when available, are classified as infantry. Engineers and special forces units are all but nonexistent within the Magistracy Army.
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: The Magistracy Support Corps is an umbrella organization responsible for administrative, quartermaster, and related functions necessary to keep the MAF functioning. This includes providing training for new recruits and officers, managing mercenary contracts, and performing research and development on new military technologies..<ref name=TP95/><ref name=FMP23/><ref name=HMPS85/>
  
; '''Magistracy Navy:'''
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; Militia Defense Corps
: At present, the size of the Canopian Navy is less then four dozen [[DropShip]]s and two dozen [[JumpShip]]s, complemented by many smaller, independently owned merchant vessels, which can be used as privateers. The Canopian Navy is divided into two fleets, with two squadrons of two flotillas each. The Canopian Battle Fleet is charged with the defense of orbital space around potential targets of invasion. The second, Reserve Fleet, patrols in and around the Canopus IV system under the personal direction of the Magestrix.
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: Formerly, the Militia Defense Battalions were organized as part of the Magistracy Army, but under the reforms of Senior General [[Hadji Doru]] the Battalions were spun off into their own dedicated corps answerable directly to the MCC. Their mission has remained the same though, garrisoning worlds with don't require front-line units and serving as a last line of defense.<ref name=FMP22/><ref name=HMPS84/>
  
; '''Magistracy AeroSpace Arm:'''
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; Magistracy Alliance Liaison
: There are fewer than one hundred [[AeroSpace Fighter]]s in Canopian space, most of which are captured and refurbished light or medium craft. Given the small numbers of fighters, operational command of the AeroSpace Arm is relegated to the Navy, with individual fighters divided among the Magistracy's two fleets.
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: The MAL was created after the formation of the Trinity Alliance and the start of foreign troops rotating into Canopian space showed a need to oversee their movement and actions. In addition to its function as an oversight committee for Taurian and Capellan troops within and around Magistracy space, the MAL also supplies Military Coordinators to its alliance partners to assist in organizing Canopian troops operating in their space.  These Coordinators, typically of Major rank, may also choose to provide regular status updates to the MCC of these Canopian units, though it is not a requirement.<ref name=FMP23/><ref name=HMPS85/>
  
; '''Magistracy Medical Corps:'''
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; Magistracy Intelligence Ministry
: The Magistracy Medical Corps is the one area where Canopians excel over their Inner Sphere counterparts. The MMC takes pains to ensure adequate medical care for every trooper, sailor, and pilot. The medical teams take pride in their speed in removing the wounded from the field and later returning the recovered soldiers to their units with a minimum of delay. The ratio of skilled medics and surgeons within the MAF is roughly 1 medical specialist for every 7 fighting troops, as opposed to a ratio of 1 to 20 (or more) in other modern-day armies.
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: While officially a part of the MAF, the [[Magistracy Intelligence Ministry]] (abbreviated to MIM) operates as an independent intelligence agency, directly under the control of the Magistracy of Canopus' Magestrix herself.
  
; '''Magistracy Support Corps:'''
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== Doctrine ==
: The Magistracy Support Corps is a catch-all division that is responsible for all administrative, supply, quartermaster, and personnel-related functions of the other military systems. The Support Corps is likewise responsible for training recruits, advanced officer training, contractual liaison with mercenary units, and research and development of new weapons systems.
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As is true elsewhere in known space, the [[BattleMech]] plays a dominating role in the MAF.  Given the lack of readily available replacement parts (or 'Mechs), the MAF traditionally holds its 'Mechs in reserves, allowing its cheaper and more numerous [[combat vehicle]]s and [[infantry]] to soften up an opponent before the 'Mechs deliver the final hammer-blow.  While resulting in greater casualties among the conventional forces, it has helped the MAF to preserve its limited 'Mech forces, making it the second-largest 'Mech user in the Periphery.  This principle has continued even with the creation of the Trinity Alliance and influx of new 'Mechs designs: as life on the Periphery readily teaches, something that's here today can just as easily be gone tomorrow.<ref name=FMP22/><ref name=HMPS84/>
  
=== Composition of MAF Units ===
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The MAF closely models the [[Inner Sphere military structure|deployment schemes]] found in the armed forces of the Inner Sphere with some noticeable variations.  'Mech forces follow the standard lance-company-battalion model, with a command lance for each regiment and a command company for each Combat Formation.  Every regiment has at least one armor battalion permanently attached, with premier units boasting at least two.  Infantry units historically were the most divergent from the norm, with platoons varying in size from 30 to 50 women and companies numbering between 120 to 180; coordination with its Trinity partners has forced the MAF to more strictly enforce [[Inner Sphere Infantry Organization|standard infantry organization]].  With the exception of the [[Magistracy Royal Guards]], aerospace units are not permanently attached to ground forces, with [[Aerospace Fighter]]s, [[DropShip]]s and [[JumpShips]] assigned as needed.  The same holds true for [[Battle Armor]], which are assigned in platoon-sized units.<ref name=FMP22/><ref name=HMPS84/>
  
MAF units in the field closely model the deployment schemes found in the armed forces of the Inner Sphere, with minor variations due to its small size. MAF ground forces are usually concentrated in one heavy battalion, with most of the regiments' BattleMechs formed into four man lances. Support battalions generally consist of whatever armor (mostly reconditioned tanks) and infantry forces are available. Air Lances are typically absent from MAF forces, the exception being the [[Magistracy Royal Guards]], which contain one air lance per battalion. All other MAF air lances are under the control of the Magistracy Navy, which provides for their transportation, deployment, and repair.
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=== Equipment ===
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Given the lack of a robust military industry, the Magistracy Armed Forces has had to make due with whatever it could get its hands on. For centuries, the ability to produce 'Mechs and 'Mech replacement parts was virtually nonexistent: in 3025 [[Majesty Metals and Manufacturing]], the only surviving weapons manufacturer, managed less than sixty 'Mechs anually (less than ten of which were ''[[Shadow Hawk]]s'', the rest being ''[[Locust]]s'', ''[[Wasp]]s'' and ''[[Stinger]]s'') and less than thirty aerospace fighters and combat vehicles.<ref>''The Periphery'', p. 100</ref>  The Trinity Alliance helped to change that, leading to the development of new industrial centers within the Magistracy and the purchasing of (primarily Capellan) equipment to upgrade its forces. By 3067, 30% of all MAF 'Mechs were either brand-new designs such as the ''[[Anubis]]''<ref>''Technical Readout: 3067'', p. 48</ref> and ''[[Marshal]]''<ref>''Technical Readout: 3060'', p. 100</ref> or upgraded versions of older models.<ref name=HMPS84/>  Other branches began to update to similar levels too, with armor battalions fielding newer [[Heavy LRM Carrier]]s and [[Regulator]] hovertanks and the purchase of new [[Trinity]] battle armor.<ref name=HMPS84/>
  
Infantry platoons vary in size from 30 to 50 men, with companies of 120 to 180 men. Jump troops, special forces, and engineers are virtually unknown within the MAF.
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== Organization ==
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Similar to other armed forces, the MAF organizes its combatants into brigade-sized units called Combat Formations. Originally these Formations were commanded by the senior-most Colonels in the MAF, though after the reorganization they are now commanded by Generals.  The expansion of the MAF and increase in number of Combat Formations has also necessitated giving them greater freedom of command than was traditional, something the Formation commanders have been quick to utilize.<ref name=FMP25>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 25</ref>
  
The Magistracy maintains a number of local Militia Defense Battalions. Drawn from the populations of the major Canopian planets, these conventional forces represent reservists with a minimal amount of training. Canopian militia forces maintain a large number of armored fighting vehicles and they construct local fortifications. Though these militia units cannot stand up to regular forces, they give a good account of themselves when combined with regular armed forces. Militia are typically employed in oversized battalions of five companies each.
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To supplement its front-line forces the Magistracy has also maintained a number of local Militia Defense Battalions, generally numbering twelve in total but fluctuating year over year.  These Battalions, often containing five companies each, were originally part of the Magistracy Army before being separated into their own Militia Defense Corps by Senior General Daru. Drawn from the populations of the major Canopian planets, these conventional forces garrison worlds which don't require or don't want front-line units.  Reservists with a minimal amount of training, these often serve as both the first and last line of defense: unable to fully stand up to regular line units, they can nevertheless slow them down so reinforcements can arrive. Citizens serving out their compulsory service to the state through the military are typically assigned to these battalions; if they show promise and willingness to make the military a career, they are offered the opportunity to attend a military academy or be assigned to a front-line unit.<ref name=FMP22/><ref name=HMPS84/><ref>''The Periphery'', p. 96</ref>
  
The average Canopian soldier enters service at the age of 16. If the individual is a male, he will typically have the equivalent of a 12th-grade education; females have slightly higher educational backgrounds. Following basic training, the individual undergoes service with a home defense unit for three to four years. Those who choose careers as enlisted personnel join training battalions near the Canopian borders to undergo additional training before serving in a regular line unit. Instead of attending Officer Training School, those selected as officer candidates (where there is a marked bias toward females) are posted as military aides-de-camp to an officer on duty in a regular line regiment. Nowhere is the concept of on-the job training taken more seriously than in the MAF. An official commendation from a candidate's "sponsor" makes it possible for him or her to purchase their first commission (often with their sponsor's assistance).
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===Deployment Status===
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Just prior to the [[Reunification War]] in [[2575]], the MAF numbered a total of 17 'Mech regiments (six of which were mercenary commands) and 12 Home Guard regiments, as well as 11 [[WarShips]]. When the conflict finally came to an end in [[2600]], the MAF had just two WarShips left and nine regiments.<ref>''Historical: Reunification War'', p. 41</ref>  In [[2750]] the MAF had still had nine regiments (organized into a single Division) and a fleet of nine [[WarShips]], however when they joined in with [[Stefan Amaris]]' conspiracy their forces were greatly expanded: by [[2765]] they were well equipped with 20 Divisions (consisting of 22 conventional and 108 'Mech regiments) and a naval fleet of 22 vessels. While MAF units on paper, most of these are essentially part of Amaris' "Secret Army" and those which weren't destroyed in the [[New Vandenberg Uprising]] did not survive long after the Succession Wars cut off any Inner Sphere support.<ref>''Historical: Liberation of Terra Volume 1'', p. 50, "Territorial State Troop Strength"</ref> 
  
=== Technology of the MAF ===
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In [[3025]] the MAF's 'Mech strength was equivalent to 10 regiments and 2 battalions, including mercenaries,<ref>''The Periphery'', p. 96-99</ref>, while it's aerospace forces amounted to less than 100 fighters, less than four dozen DropShips and less than two dozen JumpShips, plus a lesser number of merchantmen who could be press-ganged as privateers.<ref name=TP95/>  Though three 'Mech and fifteen conventional regiments had been seriously mauled during the [[Andurien Crisis]], by [[3050]] the number of front-line forces had been restored, with a 'Mech strength equivalent to twelve regiments and one battalion, including mercenaries.<ref name=20YU>''20 Year Update'', p. 78</ref>  By [[3064]] it's strength had increased: aerospace fighters numbered just over a hundred but the number of DropShips and JumpShips increased to under 140, and there were rumors of a WarShip program starting up again.<ref name=FMP22/>
{{Sectionstub}}
 
The Magistracy Armed Forces suffers from the loss of many key industrial centers in the last two centuries. In particular, the ability to produce BattleMechs and 'Mech replacement parts is virtually nonexistent in the Magistracy. At present, only two BattleMech production facilities remain intact in Canopian space. Located on [[Canopus IV]] and [[Duncanshire]], these two centers have a very low annual output (less than 60 machines per year), and produce mostly Locusts, Wasps and Stingers. The only medium-sized BattleMechs produced within the Magistracy are Shadow Hawks, but usually no more than ten per year. Production for armor, [[AeroSpace Fighter]]s, and motorized vehicles run roughly 30 each per year.
 
  
=== Uniforms ===
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====Active Formations====
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These formations were active as of 3067:
  
Standard uniforms within the MAF are variations on a single theme. Ground forces wear a tight-fitting dark blue tunic and trousers that have contrasting light blue collars and cuffs. Naval uniforms are the reverse, with personnel dressed in light blue uniforms whose collars and cuffs are dark blue.
+
;Magistracy Royal Guards
 
 
Dress uniforms are the same except for silver piping on trouser legs and cuffs for enlisted personnel, and gold piping for officers. As the Canopian Navy controls the [[AeroSpace Fighter]] Arm of the military, [[AeroSpace Pilots]] wear the same uniforms as their naval counterparts, except that lapel and piping are green. Support personnel, including technicians, administrative personnel, and special service functionaries wear the standard uniforms of their "line" regiment counterparts, except for red piping to denote their elevated status.
 
 
 
When preparing for battle, infantry forces wear a brown uniform with black lapels and cuffs. Enlisted personnel wear their insignia as a black silhouette on the lapels only; officers have similar insignia, but wear them on the cuffs. Armor personnel typically wear dull-black field uniforms with off-white insignia. Canopian MechWarrior battle dress is similar to that of Inner Sphere MechWarriors, with some modifications. Due to the Magistracy's lower technology level, Canopian neurohelmets are larger than those used elsewhere. In addition, they allow for longer hair styles to accommodate the Canopians' disproportionate number of women warriors. Magistracy AeroSpace pilots wear the simplest uniforms. Its single notable feature is the presence of the arm-length protector, which contains emergency circuitry systems and life-sign monitors.
 
 
 
=== [[Magistracy Intelligence Ministry]] ===
 
While officially a part of the MAF, the '''Magistracy Intelligence Ministry''' (abbreviated to MIM) operates as an independent intelligence agency, directly under the control of the Magistracy of Canopus' Magestrix herself.
 
 
 
== Units of the Magistracy Armed Forces ==
 
The following Brigades and sub-units have been incorporated within the Magistracy Army during the history of the Magistracy.
 
 
 
===Magestrix Guard===
 
The original personal guard of the Magestrix, the Magestrix Guard were victims of the Reunification War.
 
* [[Magestrix Guard]] (destroyed/disbanded in [[2584]])<ref name="H:RWp151">''Historical: Reunification War'', p. 151, "Magistracy of Canopus Front (2583-2588)"</ref>
 
 
 
===Magistracy Royal Guards===
 
 
{{main|Magistracy Royal Guards}}
 
{{main|Magistracy Royal Guards}}
  
Formed initially during the Reunification War from the remains of units destroyed in action, the Magistracy Royal Guards play a pivotal role in safeguarding the Canopian state.<ref name="FM:Pp26">''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 26, Combat Formations"</ref>
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Formed initially during the Reunification War from the remains of units destroyed in action, the Magistracy Royal Guards play a pivotal role in safeguarding the Canopian state.<ref name=FMP26>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 26, Combat Formations"</ref>
 
* [[Raventhir's Iron Hand]]
 
* [[Raventhir's Iron Hand]]
 
* [[1st Canopian Cuirassiers|First Canopian Cuirassiers]]
 
* [[1st Canopian Cuirassiers|First Canopian Cuirassiers]]
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|}
 
|}
  
===Chasseurs á Cheval===
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;Chasseurs á Cheval
 
{{main|Chasseurs á Cheval}}
 
{{main|Chasseurs á Cheval}}
  
The Chasseurs á Cheval were formed the year after the Magistracy of Canopus came into being and are the senior brigade of the MAF.<ref name="FM:Pp26">''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 26-27, "Combat Formations"</ref>
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The Chasseurs á Cheval were formed the year after the Magistracy of Canopus came into being and are the senior brigade of the MAF.<ref name=FMP26/>
 
* [[1st Canopian Light Horse|First Canopian Light Horse]]
 
* [[1st Canopian Light Horse|First Canopian Light Horse]]
 
* [[2nd Canopian Light Horse|Second Canopian Light Horse]]
 
* [[2nd Canopian Light Horse|Second Canopian Light Horse]]
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|}
 
|}
  
===Canopian Fusiliers===
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;Canopian Fusiliers
 
{{main|Canopian Fusiliers}}
 
{{main|Canopian Fusiliers}}
  
Long the workhorse brigade of the Magistracy, the Canopian Fusiliers were wiped out during the Reunification War, but were reformed in secret in the build up to the [[Amaris Civil War]] and have seen more combat than any other Canopian unit.<ref name="FM:Pp26">''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 26-27, Combat Formations"</ref>
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Long the workhorse brigade of the Magistracy, the Canopian Fusiliers were wiped out during the Reunification War, but were reformed in secret in the build up to the [[Amaris Civil War]] and have seen more combat than any other Canopian unit.<ref name=FMP26/>
 
* [[1st Canopian Fusiliers|First Canopian Fusiliers]]
 
* [[1st Canopian Fusiliers|First Canopian Fusiliers]]
 
* [[2nd Canopian Fusiliers|Second Canopian Fusiliers]]
 
* [[2nd Canopian Fusiliers|Second Canopian Fusiliers]]
Line 102: Line 92:
 
|}
 
|}
  
===Canopian Grenadiers===
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;Magistracy Cavaliers
{{main|Canopian Grenadiers}}
 
 
 
The Canopian Grenadiers formed in the buildup to the Reunification War and fought on a number of worlds until their destruction.
 
* [[1st Canopian Grenadiers|First Canopian Grenadiers]] (disbanded in 2584)<ref name="H:RWp151"/>
 
* [[2nd Canopian Grenadiers|Second Canopian Grenadiers]] (disbanded during the [[Reunification War]])<ref name="H:RWp151"/>
 
 
 
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| Canopian Grenadiers
 
|-
 
|width='200px' align="center "|[[Image:Canopian Grenadiers.png|100px]]
 
|}
 
 
 
 
 
===Canopian Cuirassiers===
 
The Canopian Cuirassiers formed in the buildup to the Reunification War and fought until their destruction during the battle for Canopus.
 
* [[Canopian Cuirassiers]] (disbanded in 2584)<ref name="H:RWp151"/>
 
 
 
===Magistracy Cavaliers===
 
 
{{main|Magistracy Cavaliers}}
 
{{main|Magistracy Cavaliers}}
  
With roots stretching back to the home guard regiments that defended the Magistracy during the Reunification War, the modern Magistracy Cavaliers were raised as a local regiment on [[Thraxa]] and later incorporated into the MAF.<ref name="FM:Pp39">''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 39, "Magistracy Cavaliers"</ref>
+
With roots stretching back to the home guard regiments that defended the Magistracy during the Reunification War, the modern Magistracy Cavaliers were raised as a local regiment on [[Thraxa]] and later incorporated into the MAF.<ref name=FMP39>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 39, "Magistracy Cavaliers"</ref>
 
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| Magistracy Cavaliers
 
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| Magistracy Cavaliers
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|}
 
|}
  
===Magistracy Highlanders===
+
;Magistracy Highlanders
 
{{main|Magistracy Highlanders}}
 
{{main|Magistracy Highlanders}}
  
The Magistracy Highlanders formed in secret in [[3059]] from a core of mercenary units incorporated into the MAF.<ref name="FM:Pp26"/>
+
The Magistracy Highlanders formed in secret in [[3059]] from a core of mercenary units incorporated into the MAF.<ref name=FMP26/>
 
* [[1st Magistracy Highlanders|First Magistracy Highlanders]]
 
* [[1st Magistracy Highlanders|First Magistracy Highlanders]]
 
* [[2nd Magistracy Highlanders|Second Magistracy Highlanders]]
 
* [[2nd Magistracy Highlanders|Second Magistracy Highlanders]]
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|}
 
|}
  
===Raventhir Cuirassiers===
+
;Raventhir Cuirassiers
 
{{main|Raventhir Cuirassiers}}
 
{{main|Raventhir Cuirassiers}}
  
Formed in [[3063]] in honour of the [[Trinity Alliance]], the Raventhir Cuirassiers were originally paired with sister units within the [[Capellan Confederation Armed Forces]] and the [[Taurian Defense Force]].<ref name="FM:Pp26"/>
+
Formed in [[3063]] in honour of the [[Trinity Alliance]], the Raventhir Cuirassiers were originally paired with sister units within the [[Capellan Confederation Armed Forces]] and the [[Taurian Defense Force]].<ref name=FMP26/>
 
* [[1st Raventhir Cuirassiers|First Raventhir Cuirassiers]]
 
* [[1st Raventhir Cuirassiers|First Raventhir Cuirassiers]]
 
* [[2nd Raventhir Cuirassiers|Second Raventhir Cuirassiers]]
 
* [[2nd Raventhir Cuirassiers|Second Raventhir Cuirassiers]]
  
===First Canopian Brigade===
+
;First Canopian Brigade
 
{{main|1st Canopian Brigade}}
 
{{main|1st Canopian Brigade}}
  
The First Canopian Brigade is another unit that began as a collection of forces raised locally on worlds in the Magistracy outback before being incorporated into the MAF.<ref name="FM:Pp44">''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 44, "First Canopian Brigade"</ref>
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The First Canopian Brigade is another unit that began as a collection of forces raised locally on worlds in the Magistracy outback before being incorporated into the MAF.<ref name=FMP44>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 44, "First Canopian Brigade"</ref>
 
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| 1st Canopian Brigade
 
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| 1st Canopian Brigade
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|}
 
|}
  
===Colonial Marshals===
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==== Inactive Formations ====
Funded and resourced equally by the Magistracy and the [[Taurian Concordat]], the Colonial Marshalls were raised soon after the signing of the Canopus-Taurian Alliance in [[3056]],.<ref name="FM:Pp45">''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 45, "Colonial Marshals"</ref> and became an independent unit with the birth of the [[Fronc Reaches]].
+
;Magestrix Guard
* [[Colonial Marshals]] (became independent during the Jihad)<ref>''Field Report: Periphery'', p 10</ref>
+
The original personal guard of the Magestrix, the Magestrix Guard were victims of the Reunification War and their role passed on to the [[Magistracy Royal Guards]].
 +
* [[Magestrix Guard]] (destroyed/disbanded in [[2584]])<ref name="H:RWp151">''Historical: Reunification War'', p. 151, "Magistracy of Canopus Front (2583-2588)"</ref>
  
 
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| Colonial Marshals
+
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| Magestrix Guard
 
|-
 
|-
|width='200px' align="center "|[[Image:Colonial marshals.jpg|100px]]  
+
|width='200px' align="center "|[[Image:Magestrix Guard.png|100px]]  
 
|}
 
|}
  
== Awards and Decoration ==
+
;Canopian Cuirassiers
 +
The Canopian Cuirassiers formed in the buildup to the Reunification War and fought until their destruction during the battle for Canopus.
 +
* [[Canopian Cuirassiers]] (disbanded in 2584)<ref name="H:RWp151"/>
  
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
+
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 +
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| Canopian Cuirassiers
 
|-
 
|-
! Name
+
|width='200px' align="center "|[[Image:Canopian Cuirassiers.png|100px]]
! Picture
+
|}
! Information
+
 
 +
;Canopian Grenadiers
 +
{{main|Canopian Grenadiers}}
 +
 
 +
The Canopian Grenadiers formed in the buildup to the Reunification War and fought on a number of worlds until their destruction.
 +
* [[1st Canopian Grenadiers|First Canopian Grenadiers]] (disbanded in 2584)<ref name="H:RWp151"/>
 +
* [[2nd Canopian Grenadiers|Second Canopian Grenadiers]] (disbanded during the [[Reunification War]])<ref name="H:RWp151"/>
 +
 
 +
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 +
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| Canopian Grenadiers
 
|-
 
|-
| The Canopus Cluster
+
|width='200px' align="center "|[[Image:Canopian Grenadiers.png|100px]]  
| [[Image:Award_-_canopus_cluster.png|100px|center]]
+
|}
| The Cluster can only received for an act that spares the Magistracy harm. The Award is also the only decoration for heroism. It is partly purchased through a "donation". For the donation ths Cluster will include a precious stone:
+
 
<br /> 10,000 C-bills (lapis lazuli)
+
;Kossandra's Volunteers
<br /> 25,000 C-bills (emerald)
+
[[Kossandra's Volunteers]] was the name given to the original home guard regiments spread around the various worlds of the Magistracy in the buildup to the [[Reunification War]]. Officially disbanded by the [[Star League]] after the war, a number of modern units can trace their origins back to elements of the Volunteers.
<br /> 50,000 C-bllls (diamond)
+
 
<br />100,000 C-bills (ruby)
+
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
<br />
+
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| Kossandra's Volunteers
<br />platinum band => military service
 
<br />gold band => merchant service
 
<br />bronze band=> political service
 
<br />brass band => all other service
 
 
|-
 
|-
| Fist of Raventhir
+
|width='200px' align="center "|[[Image:Kossandras Volunteers.png|100px]]  
| [[Image:Award_-_fist_of_raventir.png‎|100px|center]]
+
|}
| Created in 2997. For the unfailing service of the Raventhiri bloodline for centuries to the state. Every commissioned officer make a vote for a soldier how has earned such a honor. The fist is made of titanium and depend from a red-silk ribbon.
+
 
 +
;Colonial Marshals
 +
Funded and resourced equally by the Magistracy and the [[Taurian Concordat]], the Colonial Marshalls were raised soon after the signing of the Canopus-Taurian Alliance in [[3056]],<ref name=FMP45>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 45, "Colonial Marshals"</ref> and became an independent unit with the birth of the [[Fronc Reaches]].
 +
* [[Colonial Marshals]] (became independent during the Jihad)<ref>''Field Report: Periphery'', p 10</ref>
 +
 
 +
{|class="wikitable" width='200px' style="background: #gray; border: 2px solid black;"
 +
! colspan="2" style="border-bottom:2px solid black"| Colonial Marshals
 
|-
 
|-
| Ribbon of the Magestrix
+
|width='200px' align="center "|[[Image:Colonial marshals.jpg|100px]]  
| [[Image:Award_-_ribbon_of_the_magestrix.png‎|100px|center]]
 
| Created to honor units that served in the [[Capellan-St. Ives War]], thats means the unit served and fought  on a world outside the Magistracy. Also awarded for pirate hunting.
 
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
==== Mercenaries ====
 +
;3025<ref>''The Periphery'', p. 97-98</ref>
 +
* [[Canopian Highlanders]]
 +
* [[Harcourts Destructors]]
 +
* [[Hudsenn's Red Devils]]
 +
* [[Ramilie's Raiders]]
 +
 +
;3050<ref name=20YU/>
 +
* Canopian Highlanders
 +
* Harcourts Destructors
 +
* Ramilie's Raiders
 +
* [[Caesar's Cohorts]]
  
 
== Military Academies ==
 
== Military Academies ==
{{Sectionstub}}
+
During the Star League era, the Magistracy did maintain national military academies such as the [[Magistracy Aerospace Academy]] and [[Magistracy Institute for Strategic Studies]].<ref>''Field Report 2765: Periphery'', p. 8</ref>  These did not survive the Succession Wars and for most of its history the MAF did not have any national academies.  Partially this was result of the Canopian disapproval of having to maintain a standing military, with the government subsequently not feeling the need to fund such facilities.  The result was that each individual planet was responsible for running its own training academies, with predictably spotty results.<ref name=FMP27>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 27</ref>  Most recruits would never see the inside of a classroom anyways: when a Canopian signed up at age 16, on average they already had a high school-level education (if male) or slightly higher (if female).  After basic training, those serving compulsorily were sent to a Militia Defense Battalion to spend their three-year tour of duty, while career soldiers were sent to a training battalion before assignment to the front.  If selected as an officer candidate, she was instead posted as a military ''aide-de-camp'' for an active-duty officer where she received "on-the-job" training.<ref>''The Periphery'', p. 96</ref>
== Ranks ==
 
  
The system of ranks used by the MAF is similar to those of military orders throughout the galaxy. Currently, about four million men and women are on active duty in the MAF, distributed among ten different ranks: four officer grade and six enlisted. The insignia for all MAF personnel is diamond- shaped, which reflects the Canopians' love of wealth.
+
While those who served were willing to give it their all to protect the Magistracy, the deficit in training compared to its enemies was hard to overcome.  Magistrix [[Emma Centrella]] was responsible for recognizing that the MAF could no longer function this way.  In addition to increasing government funding for the provincial military academies, she founded the [[Canopian Institute of War]] on the capital world of Canopus IV. Modeled on the prestigious [[Sun Zhang MechWarrior Academy]], it promised to improve the quality of MAF soldiers and signaled a new-found respect for a profession which had received litte love in the past.<ref name=FMP27/>
  
; '''Enlisted Ranks:'''
+
== Ranks ==
: The six enlisted ranks of the MAF are [[Volunteer]], [[First Ranker]], [[Lance Corporal]], [[Star Corporal]], [[Command Sergeant]], and [[Banner Sergeant]].
+
The ranking structure of the MAF stands out from those of other armed forces in that officer positions can be directly purchased, albeit at a steep cost.  The rational behind this concept is that those who can afford to pay such a price are the most deserving of command.  Regardless of its actual merits, such a system has remained unchanged throughout the MAF's history, and there are certain safeguards against the incompetent and ill-suited from having too much power.  For positions of [[Major]] or higher, the Magistrix must give her permission before such a commission can be purchase, and typically after the candidate has been vetted for her suitability.  Costs for each of the ranks are given below in [[C-Bills]]; those wishing to purchase a commission in a prestigious unit like the Royal Guards or Chasseurs can expect to pay an additional 10,000-15,000, while women tend to receive discount when purchasing their ranks.<ref name=TP95>''The Periphery'', p. 95</ref><ref name=FMP25/><ref name=HMPS87>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 86-87</ref>  (By way of comparison, average monthly salary for a middle-class worker in 3067 was ~400 C-Bills; a Baroness' was ~4,000 C-Bills).<ref>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. </ref>
  
 
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
 
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
 +
! colspan="3" align="center" | MAF Ranks
 
|-
 
|-
 
! Rank  
 
! Rank  
 
! Insignia  
 
! Insignia  
! Information
+
! Cost (C-Bills)
 +
|-
 +
| colspan="3" align="center" | '''Enlisted'''
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Volunteer:''
+
| [[Volunteer]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Volunteer.png|50x50px|Link=Volunteer|alt=Volunteer insignia.]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Volunteer.png|50x50px|Link=Volunteer|alt=Volunteer insignia.]]
| All Canopian citizens are required to serve a minimum of three years in the MAF (though aristocrats can secure exemption by hiring a substitute). All new recruits are referred to as Volunteers and wear the silver-edged diamond insignia on their lapels and cuffs.
+
| -
 
|-
 
|-
| ''First Ranker:''
+
| [[First Ranker]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-FirstRanker.png|50x50px|Link=First Ranker|alt=First Ranker insignia.]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-FirstRanker.png|50x50px|Link=First Ranker|alt=First Ranker insignia.]]
| All graduates of basic training receive the rank of First Ranker, unless subject to some disciplinary action. The First Ranker then enters into several months of advanced training in a particular area of expertise. Further promotion within the MAF depends on individual initiative and performance. Two silver-edged diamonds, one nested inside the other, identify a First Ranker.
+
| -
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Lance Corporal:''
+
| [[Sergeant#Magistracy of Canopus|Lance Corporal]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-LanceCorporal.png|50x50px|Link=Star Corporal|alt=Star Corporal insignia.]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-LanceCorporal.png|50x50px|Link=Star Corporal|alt=Star Corporal insignia.]]
| The Lance Corporal is roughly equivalent to a [[Sergeant]] in other military services. They are expected to be competent instructors in the field and to command units averaging between 15 and 20 troops. A third nested diamond bar distinguishes Lance Corporals from First Rankers.
+
| -
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Star Corporal:''
+
| [[Star Corporal]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-StarCorporal.png|50x50px|Link=Volunteer|alt=Volunteer insignia.]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-StarCorporal.png|50x50px|Link=Volunteer|alt=Volunteer insignia.]]
| The core of the MAF, the Star Corporal serves in a variety of leadership roles, often in the absence of ranking field officers. Their most typical role is the equivalent of a platoon sergeant in combat. The rank is named for its insignia, a silver star within a silver-edged diamond.
+
| -
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Command Sergeant:''
+
| [[Command Sergeant]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-CommandSergeant.png|50x50px|Link=Command Sergeant|alt=Command Sergeant insignia.]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-CommandSergeant.png|50x50px|Link=Command Sergeant|alt=Command Sergeant insignia.]]
| Command Sergeants are the equivalent of senior company NCOs, often holding a variety of staff positions under senior officers. A solid silver diamond denotes the Command Sergeant.
+
| -
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Banner Sergeant:''
+
| [[Banner Sergeant]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-BannerSergeant.png|50x50px|Link=Banner Sergeant|alt=Banner Sergeant insignia.]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-BannerSergeant.png|50x50px|Link=Banner Sergeant|alt=Banner Sergeant insignia.]]
| The rank of "Banner Sergeant" harkens back to the days when personnel of this rank were responsible for their unit's regimental colors. Though Banner Sergeants still handle unit flags in full-dress parades, they are primarily responsible for filling senior staff and field commands. They are the equivalent of Battalion Sergeants in Inner Sphere military structures. The rank insignia for the Banner Sergeant is two solid silver diamonds.
+
| -  
|}
 
 
 
 
 
; '''Officer Ranks:'''
 
: [[Junior]] officer slots within the MAF are usually purchased positions, a feature unique among [[Periphery]] military systems. The practice is in keeping with Magistracy tradition, which holds that those able to afford the cost of command positions (the nobility) are those best suited to lead. In all cases involving senior grade officers, however, such purchases require the confirmation of the Magestrix. Though the merits of this policy may be questionable, this system has gone unchallenged for four centuries. Typical purchase prices for commissions in the MAF are given below in standard C-Bills.
 
 
 
Though there is less discrimination against male officers in the MAF than previously, it does still exist. Females are likely to pay a lower price for an officer slot than an equally qualified male.
 
 
 
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
 
 
|-
 
|-
! Rank
+
| colspan="3" align="center" | '''Officer'''
! Insignia
 
! Information
 
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Ensign:''
+
| [[Lieutenant#Magistracy of Canopus|Ensign]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Ensign.png|50x50px|Link=Ensign|alt=Ensign insignia.]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Ensign.png|50x50px|Link=Ensign|alt=Ensign insignia.]]
| The rank of Ensign appears in both the Canopian navy and army. Ensigns rarely command set numbers of troops, but may control from ten to a hundred individuals at any given time, depending on their unit assignment. An Ensign's rank insignia is a gold-edged diamond.
+
| 10,000-25,000
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Commander:''
+
| [[Captain#Magistracy of Canopus|Commander]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Commander.png|50x50px|Link=Commander|alt=Commander insignia.]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Commander.png|50x50px|Link=Commander|alt=Commander insignia.]]
| The rank of Commander is equivalent to the Inner Sphere ranks of Lieutenant, Lieutenant Commander, and Commander. Aboard ship, a Commander may serve as a department commander or his assistant. On the ground, a Commander typically heads up a company or battalion. The insignia is two gold-edged hollow diamonds, one inside the other.  
+
| 16,000-35,000
 +
|-
 +
| rowspan="2" | [[Major#Magistracy of Canopus|Major]]<br/><br />[[Comcapt]]
 +
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Major.png|50x50px|Link=Major|alt=Major insignia.]]
 +
| rowspan="2" | 24,000-45,000
 +
|-
 +
|[[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-ComCapt.png|50x50px|Link=Comcapt|alt=ComCaptinsignia.]]
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Major:''
+
| [[Lieutenant Colonel#Magistracy of Canopus|Force Major]]
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Major.png|50x50px|Link=Major|alt=Major insignia.]]<br /><br />[[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-ComCapt.png|50x50px|Link=Comcapt|alt=ComCaptinsignia.]]
+
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-ForceMajor.png|50x50px|Link=Force Major|alt=Force Major insignia.]]
| MAF majors are typically employed as senior battalion commanders and brevet regimental commanders, especially in training commands. In the MAF navy, the rank of Major is usually referred to as Comcapt (a bastardization of Commodore-Captain). A Comcapt can command anything from a ship up to a squadron of from three to six vessels. A single gold diamond insignia denotes a Major, while a gold wreath below the diamond denotes a Comcapt.  
+
| Appt. Only
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Colonel:''
+
| rowspan="2" |[[Colonel#Magistracy of Canopus|Colonel]]<br/><br/>[[Commodore#Magistracy of Canopus|Rearad]]
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Colonel.png|50x50px|Link=Colonel|alt=Colonel insignia.]]<br /><br />[[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-RearAd.png|50x50px|Link=RearAd|alt=RearAd insignia.]]
+
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Colonel.png|50x50px|Link=Colonel|alt=Colonel insignia.]]
| MAF Colonels are the regimental commanders of the MAF. Aboard ship, the rank is referred to as Rearad (from Rear Admiral). In addition to the various regimental commanders, there are three Senior Colonels who coordinate defense plans for the Magestrix. Two Rearads command the diminutive Canopian Navy fleets. Two horizontal solid gold diamonds denote the Colonel ; a Rearad also has a gold wreath.
+
| rowspan="2" |33,000-50,000
|}
 
 
 
==== Ranks after [[3064]] ====
 
In 3064, [[Hadji Doru]] joined the Magistracy Armed Forces. He instituted several changes to the MAF, including the creation of three new ranks: [[Force Major]], [[General]], and [[Senior General]].<ref>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 24</ref>
 
 
 
 
 
{| class="wikitable" border="1"
 
 
|-
 
|-
! Rank
+
|[[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-RearAd.png|50x50px|Link=RearAd|alt=RearAd insignia.]]
! Insignia
 
! Information
 
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Force Major:''
+
| rowspan="2" |[[General#Magistracy of Canopus|General]]<br /><br />[[Admiral#Magistracy of Canopus|Admiral]]
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-ForceMajor.png|50x50px|Link=Force Major|alt=Force Major insignia.]]
+
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-General.png|50x50px|Link=General|alt=General insignia.]]
| Force Major is the lowest of the new ranks. Roughly equivalent to a [[Lieutenant Colonel]], a Magistracy soldier can earn this rank by either being promoted from Major or (more likely) being demoted from Colonel. The insignia of a Force Major is the gold diamond of a Major, topped with a silver star.
+
| rowspan="2" |60,000-70,000
 
|-
 
|-
| ''General:''
+
|[[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Admiral.png|50x50px|Link=Admiral|alt=Admiral insignia.]]
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-General.png|50x50px|Link=General|alt=General insignia.]]<br /><br />[[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-Admiral.png|50x50px|Link=Admiral|alt=Admiral insignia.]]
 
| A General in the MAF fills two roles: They serve as the head of a MAF combat formation (Magistracy Royal Guards, etc.) and staff the MCC. There are two Admirals in the MAF who oversee the Navy and also staff the MCC. The Magestrix can veto the appointment of a general. A MAF general wears three gold diamonds,  while an admiral adds a gold wreath.
 
 
|-
 
|-
| ''Senior General:''
+
| [[Senior General]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-SeniorGeneral.png|50x50px|Link=Senior General|alt=Senior General insignia.]]
 
| [[Image:MagistracyOfCanopus-SeniorGeneral.png|50x50px|Link=Senior General|alt=Senior General insignia.]]
| The Senior General is the Magestrix's right hand, overseeing the daily operations of the MAF. This officer acts as the chair of the MCC, working with the five generals and two admirals to set strategy and maintain force readiness. Unlike other realms, the Senior General '''doesn't''' act as the regent when the Magestrix is unavailable. The Magestrix selects the Senior General. The Senior General wears four gold diamonds as their rank insignia.
+
| Appt. Only
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
== Uniforms ==
 +
Uniforms of the MAF have been fairly straightforward for the last few centuries, partially a reflection of the Magistracy's democratic nature.  Through the Succession Wars and into the 31st century, standard duty uniforms for ground troops was a tight-fighting dark blue tunic and trousers, with light-blue collars and cuffs. Naval personnel and aerospace fighter pilots reversed this color scheme.
 +
In combat, infantry wore a brown uniform with black lapels and cuffs, with a black silhouette insignia on their lapels (enlisted) or cuffs (officers), with armor crews wearing a dull-black uniform with off-white insignia.  Aerospace fighter pilots wear a simple flightsuit with the addition of arm-length protectors containing emergency circuitry systems and life-sign monitors.  [[MechWarrior (pilot)|MechWarriors]] in the MAF, as elsewhere, kept their clothing to a minimum to survive the sauna-like conditions which can occur in the [[cockpit]] of a 'Mech.  Dress uniforms were the same as field uniforms, except for the piping on the trouser legs and cuffs: silver for enlisted, gold for officers, green for navy, and red for support personnel.<ref name=TP93>''The Periphery'', p. 93</ref>
 +
 +
Magestrix Emma Centrella made a number of changes to the MAF uniforms after assuming power, though in large part she maintained the same theme.  When in the field and for day-to-day duties, ground forces wear a turquoise bodysuit over which is worn black bullet-resistant tunic, helmet, boots and gloves; naval personnel reverse this scheme, while support personnel maintain it but add blue piping.  Rank insignia is worn on the lapels and cuffs.  Camouflage fatigues are available when when needed.  MechWarrior battle dress remains the same as before, but with an increasing number turning in their large, clunky [[Neurohelmet]]s for more advanced and compact versions.  Dress uniforms follow the same pattern as field uniforms but are looser and made of lighterweight material, with officers featuring silver piping on the trouser legs and cuffs.<ref>''Field Manual: Periphery'', p. 24</ref><ref>''Handbook: Major Periphery States'', p. 85</ref>
 +
 +
<gallery>
 +
File:MAFpilot3025.jpeg|Pilot<br /> (c.[[3025]])
 +
File:Perimocmechwarrior.png|MechWarrior<br /> (c.[[3064]])
 +
File:Infan48.png|Infantry<br /> (c.[[3085]])
 +
File:Infan46.png|[[Field Medic]]<br /> (c.3085)
 +
</gallery>
 +
 +
==See also==
 +
* [[Awards#Magistracy of Canopus|Awards and Decorations of the MAF]]
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
Line 296: Line 296:
  
 
==Bibliography==
 
==Bibliography==
* ''[[The Periphery, 2nd Edition (sourcebook)]]''
 
* ''[[The Periphery]]''
 
 
* ''[[Field Manual: Periphery]]''
 
* ''[[Field Manual: Periphery]]''
 
* ''[[Field Report: Periphery]]''
 
* ''[[Field Report: Periphery]]''
 
* ''[[Handbook: Major Periphery States]]''
 
* ''[[Handbook: Major Periphery States]]''
 +
* ''[[Historical: Liberation of Terra Volume 1]]''
 
* ''[[Historical: Reunification War]]''
 
* ''[[Historical: Reunification War]]''
 +
* ''[[Jihad: Final Reckoning]]''
 +
* ''[[The Periphery (sourcebook)|The Periphery]]''
 +
* ''[[The Periphery, 2nd Edition (sourcebook)]]''
  
 
[[Category:Military organizations]]
 
[[Category:Military organizations]]
 +
[[Category:Magistracy of Canopus]]

Revision as of 18:35, 2 April 2019

The Magistracy Armed Forces (abbreviated MAF) is the military arm of the Magistracy of Canopus. A largely peaceful society, the Magistracy has traditionally regarded its armed forces as a necessary evil, providing it with fewer resources than other states and largely reserving it for defensive purposes against pirates and invaders. That outlook changed somewhat in the 31st century when the Trinity Alliance allowed for the expansion and reforms of the MAF until it became the largest military force in the Periphery in 3067. Despite these changes, the MAF has continued to maintain some of the unique traditions which helps it stand out from other military forces.

Structure of the MAF

Historically, the small size of the MAF allowed it to maintain a streamline, simplistic structure, with little distinction between the different branches. Its sudden growth and the demands of working alongside its Trinity partners has required the MAF to undergo several changes. These changes have been gradual though, with the understanding that what worked out well for the past several centuries shouldn't be radically altered without some consideration.[1][2][3]

Magestrix Command Center
At the apex of the MAF is the Magestrix Command Center (MCC). Located on Canopus IV, this division of the MAF is directly responsible to the Magestrix for all top-level strategic planning and defense initiatives. Originally it was staffed by the three senior-most Colonels and their Rear Admiral counterparts,[1] but the Trinity Alliance caused it to expand to nine members: the Senior General, the Generals of the five original Combat Formations, both Admirals of the Canopian Navy, and a Capellan military attache of jiang-jun rank. Responsible for coordinating all CCAF forces operating within the Magistracy, this last addition was initially met with some consternation, though efforts were made to accommodate all involved.[2][3]
Magistracy Army
All ground combat units within the MAF are a part of the Magistracy Army. Historically, the army did not differentiate sub-branches (except in the case of infantry and armor commands) due to its small size, with artillery and jump infantry, when available, classified as infantry.[1] The expansion of the MAF have caused these differences to become more pronounced. This includes the creation of the Militia Defense Corp and the addition of Battle Armor which, though of limited numbers in 3067, were grouped into their own separate branch under the direct command of the Senior General.[2][3]
Magistracy Navy
Throughout the Succession Wars and into the 31st century, the Canopian Navy's small size has necessitated its grouping into a single organization. The Navy consists of two fleets, each divided into two squadrons of two flotillas each. The Battle Fleet is responsible for the defense of orbital space around potential invasion targets, while the Reserve Fleet is stationed in the Canopus IV system to act as a rapid reaction force.[1][4][5] Originally the Navy was jointed commanded by both Rear Admirals, with the Magistrix having personal control over the Reserve Fleet and a separate Magistracy Aerospace Arm.[1] With with the changes in MAF rankings the Navy is jointly commanded by both Admirals and the Aerospace Arm was absorbed into the Navy.[4][5]
Magistracy Medical Corps
The Magistracy Medical Corps is the one area where the Canopian military is superior to its Inner Sphere counterparts. Operating in the belief that every warrior is worth saving, the MMC takes pains to ensure adequate medical care for all active duty personnel and speedily remove the wounded from the battlefield so they can be returned to their units just as quickly. The success of the MCC is thanks in part not just to the skill of its medics and surgeons but also its generous funding, which allows a ratio of roughly one medical specialist for every seven fighting troops, as opposed to a ratio of one to twenty (or more) in other armed forces.[1][6][7]
Magistracy Support Corps
The Magistracy Support Corps is an umbrella organization responsible for administrative, quartermaster, and related functions necessary to keep the MAF functioning. This includes providing training for new recruits and officers, managing mercenary contracts, and performing research and development on new military technologies..[1][6][7]
Militia Defense Corps
Formerly, the Militia Defense Battalions were organized as part of the Magistracy Army, but under the reforms of Senior General Hadji Doru the Battalions were spun off into their own dedicated corps answerable directly to the MCC. Their mission has remained the same though, garrisoning worlds with don't require front-line units and serving as a last line of defense.[4][5]
Magistracy Alliance Liaison
The MAL was created after the formation of the Trinity Alliance and the start of foreign troops rotating into Canopian space showed a need to oversee their movement and actions. In addition to its function as an oversight committee for Taurian and Capellan troops within and around Magistracy space, the MAL also supplies Military Coordinators to its alliance partners to assist in organizing Canopian troops operating in their space. These Coordinators, typically of Major rank, may also choose to provide regular status updates to the MCC of these Canopian units, though it is not a requirement.[6][7]
Magistracy Intelligence Ministry
While officially a part of the MAF, the Magistracy Intelligence Ministry (abbreviated to MIM) operates as an independent intelligence agency, directly under the control of the Magistracy of Canopus' Magestrix herself.

Doctrine

As is true elsewhere in known space, the BattleMech plays a dominating role in the MAF. Given the lack of readily available replacement parts (or 'Mechs), the MAF traditionally holds its 'Mechs in reserves, allowing its cheaper and more numerous combat vehicles and infantry to soften up an opponent before the 'Mechs deliver the final hammer-blow. While resulting in greater casualties among the conventional forces, it has helped the MAF to preserve its limited 'Mech forces, making it the second-largest 'Mech user in the Periphery. This principle has continued even with the creation of the Trinity Alliance and influx of new 'Mechs designs: as life on the Periphery readily teaches, something that's here today can just as easily be gone tomorrow.[4][5]

The MAF closely models the deployment schemes found in the armed forces of the Inner Sphere with some noticeable variations. 'Mech forces follow the standard lance-company-battalion model, with a command lance for each regiment and a command company for each Combat Formation. Every regiment has at least one armor battalion permanently attached, with premier units boasting at least two. Infantry units historically were the most divergent from the norm, with platoons varying in size from 30 to 50 women and companies numbering between 120 to 180; coordination with its Trinity partners has forced the MAF to more strictly enforce standard infantry organization. With the exception of the Magistracy Royal Guards, aerospace units are not permanently attached to ground forces, with Aerospace Fighters, DropShips and JumpShips assigned as needed. The same holds true for Battle Armor, which are assigned in platoon-sized units.[4][5]

Equipment

Given the lack of a robust military industry, the Magistracy Armed Forces has had to make due with whatever it could get its hands on. For centuries, the ability to produce 'Mechs and 'Mech replacement parts was virtually nonexistent: in 3025 Majesty Metals and Manufacturing, the only surviving weapons manufacturer, managed less than sixty 'Mechs anually (less than ten of which were Shadow Hawks, the rest being Locusts, Wasps and Stingers) and less than thirty aerospace fighters and combat vehicles.[8] The Trinity Alliance helped to change that, leading to the development of new industrial centers within the Magistracy and the purchasing of (primarily Capellan) equipment to upgrade its forces. By 3067, 30% of all MAF 'Mechs were either brand-new designs such as the Anubis[9] and Marshal[10] or upgraded versions of older models.[5] Other branches began to update to similar levels too, with armor battalions fielding newer Heavy LRM Carriers and Regulator hovertanks and the purchase of new Trinity battle armor.[5]

Organization

Similar to other armed forces, the MAF organizes its combatants into brigade-sized units called Combat Formations. Originally these Formations were commanded by the senior-most Colonels in the MAF, though after the reorganization they are now commanded by Generals. The expansion of the MAF and increase in number of Combat Formations has also necessitated giving them greater freedom of command than was traditional, something the Formation commanders have been quick to utilize.[11]

To supplement its front-line forces the Magistracy has also maintained a number of local Militia Defense Battalions, generally numbering twelve in total but fluctuating year over year. These Battalions, often containing five companies each, were originally part of the Magistracy Army before being separated into their own Militia Defense Corps by Senior General Daru. Drawn from the populations of the major Canopian planets, these conventional forces garrison worlds which don't require or don't want front-line units. Reservists with a minimal amount of training, these often serve as both the first and last line of defense: unable to fully stand up to regular line units, they can nevertheless slow them down so reinforcements can arrive. Citizens serving out their compulsory service to the state through the military are typically assigned to these battalions; if they show promise and willingness to make the military a career, they are offered the opportunity to attend a military academy or be assigned to a front-line unit.[4][5][12]

Deployment Status

Just prior to the Reunification War in 2575, the MAF numbered a total of 17 'Mech regiments (six of which were mercenary commands) and 12 Home Guard regiments, as well as 11 WarShips. When the conflict finally came to an end in 2600, the MAF had just two WarShips left and nine regiments.[13] In 2750 the MAF had still had nine regiments (organized into a single Division) and a fleet of nine WarShips, however when they joined in with Stefan Amaris' conspiracy their forces were greatly expanded: by 2765 they were well equipped with 20 Divisions (consisting of 22 conventional and 108 'Mech regiments) and a naval fleet of 22 vessels. While MAF units on paper, most of these are essentially part of Amaris' "Secret Army" and those which weren't destroyed in the New Vandenberg Uprising did not survive long after the Succession Wars cut off any Inner Sphere support.[14]

In 3025 the MAF's 'Mech strength was equivalent to 10 regiments and 2 battalions, including mercenaries,[15], while it's aerospace forces amounted to less than 100 fighters, less than four dozen DropShips and less than two dozen JumpShips, plus a lesser number of merchantmen who could be press-ganged as privateers.[1] Though three 'Mech and fifteen conventional regiments had been seriously mauled during the Andurien Crisis, by 3050 the number of front-line forces had been restored, with a 'Mech strength equivalent to twelve regiments and one battalion, including mercenaries.[16] By 3064 it's strength had increased: aerospace fighters numbered just over a hundred but the number of DropShips and JumpShips increased to under 140, and there were rumors of a WarShip program starting up again.[4]

Active Formations

These formations were active as of 3067:

Magistracy Royal Guards

Formed initially during the Reunification War from the remains of units destroyed in action, the Magistracy Royal Guards play a pivotal role in safeguarding the Canopian state.[17]

Magistracy Royal Guards
100px
Chasseurs á Cheval

The Chasseurs á Cheval were formed the year after the Magistracy of Canopus came into being and are the senior brigade of the MAF.[17]

Chasseurs á Cheval
Chasseurs a chaval.jpg
Canopian Fusiliers

Long the workhorse brigade of the Magistracy, the Canopian Fusiliers were wiped out during the Reunification War, but were reformed in secret in the build up to the Amaris Civil War and have seen more combat than any other Canopian unit.[17]

Canopian Fusiliers
Canopian fusiliers.jpg
Magistracy Cavaliers

With roots stretching back to the home guard regiments that defended the Magistracy during the Reunification War, the modern Magistracy Cavaliers were raised as a local regiment on Thraxa and later incorporated into the MAF.[19]

Magistracy Cavaliers
Magistracy Cavaliers.jpg
Magistracy Highlanders

The Magistracy Highlanders formed in secret in 3059 from a core of mercenary units incorporated into the MAF.[17]

Magistracy Highlanders
Magistracy highlanders.jpg
Raventhir Cuirassiers

Formed in 3063 in honour of the Trinity Alliance, the Raventhir Cuirassiers were originally paired with sister units within the Capellan Confederation Armed Forces and the Taurian Defense Force.[17]

First Canopian Brigade

The First Canopian Brigade is another unit that began as a collection of forces raised locally on worlds in the Magistracy outback before being incorporated into the MAF.[20]

1st Canopian Brigade
50px

Inactive Formations

Magestrix Guard

The original personal guard of the Magestrix, the Magestrix Guard were victims of the Reunification War and their role passed on to the Magistracy Royal Guards.

Magestrix Guard
Magestrix Guard.png
Canopian Cuirassiers

The Canopian Cuirassiers formed in the buildup to the Reunification War and fought until their destruction during the battle for Canopus.

Canopian Cuirassiers
Canopian Cuirassiers.png
Canopian Grenadiers

The Canopian Grenadiers formed in the buildup to the Reunification War and fought on a number of worlds until their destruction.

Canopian Grenadiers
Canopian Grenadiers.png
Kossandra's Volunteers

Kossandra's Volunteers was the name given to the original home guard regiments spread around the various worlds of the Magistracy in the buildup to the Reunification War. Officially disbanded by the Star League after the war, a number of modern units can trace their origins back to elements of the Volunteers.

Kossandra's Volunteers
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Colonial Marshals

Funded and resourced equally by the Magistracy and the Taurian Concordat, the Colonial Marshalls were raised soon after the signing of the Canopus-Taurian Alliance in 3056,[21] and became an independent unit with the birth of the Fronc Reaches.

Colonial Marshals
Colonial marshals.jpg

Mercenaries

3025[23]
3050[16]

Military Academies

During the Star League era, the Magistracy did maintain national military academies such as the Magistracy Aerospace Academy and Magistracy Institute for Strategic Studies.[24] These did not survive the Succession Wars and for most of its history the MAF did not have any national academies. Partially this was result of the Canopian disapproval of having to maintain a standing military, with the government subsequently not feeling the need to fund such facilities. The result was that each individual planet was responsible for running its own training academies, with predictably spotty results.[25] Most recruits would never see the inside of a classroom anyways: when a Canopian signed up at age 16, on average they already had a high school-level education (if male) or slightly higher (if female). After basic training, those serving compulsorily were sent to a Militia Defense Battalion to spend their three-year tour of duty, while career soldiers were sent to a training battalion before assignment to the front. If selected as an officer candidate, she was instead posted as a military aide-de-camp for an active-duty officer where she received "on-the-job" training.[26]

While those who served were willing to give it their all to protect the Magistracy, the deficit in training compared to its enemies was hard to overcome. Magistrix Emma Centrella was responsible for recognizing that the MAF could no longer function this way. In addition to increasing government funding for the provincial military academies, she founded the Canopian Institute of War on the capital world of Canopus IV. Modeled on the prestigious Sun Zhang MechWarrior Academy, it promised to improve the quality of MAF soldiers and signaled a new-found respect for a profession which had received litte love in the past.[25]

Ranks

The ranking structure of the MAF stands out from those of other armed forces in that officer positions can be directly purchased, albeit at a steep cost. The rational behind this concept is that those who can afford to pay such a price are the most deserving of command. Regardless of its actual merits, such a system has remained unchanged throughout the MAF's history, and there are certain safeguards against the incompetent and ill-suited from having too much power. For positions of Major or higher, the Magistrix must give her permission before such a commission can be purchase, and typically after the candidate has been vetted for her suitability. Costs for each of the ranks are given below in C-Bills; those wishing to purchase a commission in a prestigious unit like the Royal Guards or Chasseurs can expect to pay an additional 10,000-15,000, while women tend to receive discount when purchasing their ranks.[1][11][27] (By way of comparison, average monthly salary for a middle-class worker in 3067 was ~400 C-Bills; a Baroness' was ~4,000 C-Bills).[28]

MAF Ranks
Rank Insignia Cost (C-Bills)
Enlisted
Volunteer Volunteer insignia. -
First Ranker First Ranker insignia. -
Lance Corporal Star Corporal insignia. -
Star Corporal Volunteer insignia. -
Command Sergeant Command Sergeant insignia. -
Banner Sergeant Banner Sergeant insignia. -
Officer
Ensign Ensign insignia. 10,000-25,000
Commander Commander insignia. 16,000-35,000
Major

Comcapt
Major insignia. 24,000-45,000
ComCaptinsignia.
Force Major Force Major insignia. Appt. Only
Colonel

Rearad
Colonel insignia. 33,000-50,000
RearAd insignia.
General

Admiral
General insignia. 60,000-70,000
Admiral insignia.
Senior General Senior General insignia. Appt. Only

Uniforms

Uniforms of the MAF have been fairly straightforward for the last few centuries, partially a reflection of the Magistracy's democratic nature. Through the Succession Wars and into the 31st century, standard duty uniforms for ground troops was a tight-fighting dark blue tunic and trousers, with light-blue collars and cuffs. Naval personnel and aerospace fighter pilots reversed this color scheme. In combat, infantry wore a brown uniform with black lapels and cuffs, with a black silhouette insignia on their lapels (enlisted) or cuffs (officers), with armor crews wearing a dull-black uniform with off-white insignia. Aerospace fighter pilots wear a simple flightsuit with the addition of arm-length protectors containing emergency circuitry systems and life-sign monitors. MechWarriors in the MAF, as elsewhere, kept their clothing to a minimum to survive the sauna-like conditions which can occur in the cockpit of a 'Mech. Dress uniforms were the same as field uniforms, except for the piping on the trouser legs and cuffs: silver for enlisted, gold for officers, green for navy, and red for support personnel.[29]

Magestrix Emma Centrella made a number of changes to the MAF uniforms after assuming power, though in large part she maintained the same theme. When in the field and for day-to-day duties, ground forces wear a turquoise bodysuit over which is worn black bullet-resistant tunic, helmet, boots and gloves; naval personnel reverse this scheme, while support personnel maintain it but add blue piping. Rank insignia is worn on the lapels and cuffs. Camouflage fatigues are available when when needed. MechWarrior battle dress remains the same as before, but with an increasing number turning in their large, clunky Neurohelmets for more advanced and compact versions. Dress uniforms follow the same pattern as field uniforms but are looser and made of lighterweight material, with officers featuring silver piping on the trouser legs and cuffs.[30][31]

See also

References

  1. 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 1.7 1.8 The Periphery, p. 95
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 21
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 83
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 4.5 4.6 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 22
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 5.3 5.4 5.5 5.6 5.7 Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 84
  6. 6.0 6.1 6.2 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 23
  7. 7.0 7.1 7.2 Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 85
  8. The Periphery, p. 100
  9. Technical Readout: 3067, p. 48
  10. Technical Readout: 3060, p. 100
  11. 11.0 11.1 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 25
  12. The Periphery, p. 96
  13. Historical: Reunification War, p. 41
  14. Historical: Liberation of Terra Volume 1, p. 50, "Territorial State Troop Strength"
  15. The Periphery, p. 96-99
  16. 16.0 16.1 20 Year Update, p. 78
  17. 17.0 17.1 17.2 17.3 17.4 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 26, Combat Formations"
  18. 18.0 18.1 18.2 18.3 18.4 Historical: Reunification War, p. 151, "Magistracy of Canopus Front (2583-2588)"
  19. Field Manual: Periphery, p. 39, "Magistracy Cavaliers"
  20. Field Manual: Periphery, p. 44, "First Canopian Brigade"
  21. Field Manual: Periphery, p. 45, "Colonial Marshals"
  22. Field Report: Periphery, p 10
  23. The Periphery, p. 97-98
  24. Field Report 2765: Periphery, p. 8
  25. 25.0 25.1 Field Manual: Periphery, p. 27
  26. The Periphery, p. 96
  27. Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 86-87
  28. Handbook: Major Periphery States, p.
  29. The Periphery, p. 93
  30. Field Manual: Periphery, p. 24
  31. Handbook: Major Periphery States, p. 85

Bibliography